Welcome to the Hartland

A Milestone

2010-11-10T17:33:00.000-08:00

So on our way to the vacation mentioned previously, we encountered an accident with this little guy. We decided to stay in a classic best western space age lodge in a tiny po-dunk town somewhere in the middle of Arizona on our way to Mexico. We got to the town and happily went for a walk and even found a tiny history of the town museum to look through. We then decided to grab a bite to eat. We found a pizza place and just as we were finishing eating, Jackson fell off his chair and hit the ground. As soon as I pulled him up, I knew we had a problem-- lots of blood and a gaping gash just above the eye. Unfortunately we were over an hour away from the nearest hospital in Phoenix. So John and Jackson made the evening trek to Phoenix and got him stitched up. 7 stitches. Poor guy. They made it back to the motel around midnight. These are the first stitches that any of our kids have had to have. We have very cautious children. The following are some pics to chronicle the night.
He was so good. Just lied there reading books.

We found some waterproof bandages and he was fine until a doctor at the resort in Mexico took the stitches out 5 days later.

Where has the time gone

2010-11-07T17:33:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe it's been 4 months since I've put anything on here. So much has happened and it has been pretty much a blur. I'm not sure whether to go back where I left off or just move on from here. We had fun trips this summer to the beach, Idaho and Mexico. School started. Awards have been awarded. Jackson was potty trained and started preschool. I always said I would throw a big diaper free party when he was potty trained. Over 11 years of changing diapers over. But a big surprise was on its way. One more baby to join our family. Guess the diaper free party will have to wait. In the meantime...here are a few pictures of our fab vacation to Mexico.
Somewhere near the Mexico/Arizona border. It was HOT and we were waiting to meet up with our good friends to cross the border.

Our beautiful resort. We seriously had so much fun! It was great to do something different.

We basically hung out in the water the whole time!

We ventured into the town of Puerto Penasco one day to eat and shop and ride four wheelers.

Our nice dirt floor restaurant.

Grocery shopping in Mexico!

Our hotel- so much fun!!

It was a great vacation. (Did I say that already?) Thanks to our great friends, the Gabbitas', for inviting us.

Jaden's Baptism

2010-07-08T22:10:00.000-07:00

Jaden was baptized last weekend! He was super excited about it!
He is such a good boy--focused and a bit intense. He strives to do what's right and is our little rule enforcer. He impressed us by reading the Book of Mormon on his own before his 8th birthday!

Can't seem to get a good family shot.

We went to Mauricio's after to celebrate! Jared made his bendy stick thingies into Harry Potter accessories.

Jacey and Morgan enjoyed spending time together.

So proud of you Jaden!!

Grandma and Cousins come to town!

2010-07-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

Grandma and our favorite teenage girl cousins came into town last week for Jaden's baptism. We had such a good time! I love those girls!! I can't believe how grown they are. Saya was not even 2 when John and I got married and now she is 17! going into her last year of high school. Where does the time go??
We managed to take quick trip to Grandma's favorite spot--Carpinteria, CA. We had to eat at The Palms of course.Jacey wanted a picture of her and her daddy. Jaden jumped in at the last second.

She loves her daddy!

Jackson being his silly self.

Had to pose with Mickey Mouse while getting a tasty treat!

Love this picture!

We hung out at the beach ALL day long and everyone had a sunburn of some sort at day's end.

It was a super fun-filled 24 hours!

Jaden's a Cub Scout

2010-07-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

Jaden turned the magical age of 8 and became a cub scout! He was so excited!!
He earned his bobcat in the first month!

Trip down South

2010-07-08T07:18:00.000-07:00

We got in one last Disney trip before our passes blocked out for the summer. We spent the day with the Bousfields. Much fun! We met up with the Zumbrunnens too. Should've taken a picture of that.

Went on the canoes for the first time!

It was a little hot and crowded, but she was still havin fun.

We spent 3 nights with our friends the Zollingers. I so miss living 15 minutes from the beach. We went to one of our favorite spots--Seal Beach.

Jacey and Spencer helping a boy scout with his eagle project. We had a great time! Summer trips are off to a great start!

Happy Fathers Day!

2010-07-08T07:14:00.000-07:00

This is a little late, but we did celebrate! Breakfast in bed for the Daddy in our house and paninis and peach piebler with our Grandpas in the evening! We love our Daddy John!!

Dance Recital

2010-07-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

Jacey had her first dance recital. She was a lady bug in the ballet "A Curious Garden." She did a great job, had a big smile and knew every step!

She got to go to Rosemary's after to celebrate!

She ordered a sundae.

But decided she's rather have some vegetable soup like Grandma. Weird! :)

Baseball Season

2010-07-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

Jaden spent the spring playing baseball-- 20 some games. He loved it and is really starting to improve his skills!

Can't wait till next season!

My Brother Got Married

2010-07-06T14:17:00.000-07:00

My brother Jeremiah got married to Ceci Burton in June.
Here is the audience. Lots of kids!

Johnson sibs and spouses- Jen is missing.

The happy couple with my mom, aunt and cousin.

Jeremiah and Ceci with my parents

Jacey wanted to pose with the bride.

Ceci with the big boys.

Jackson was getting a little tired.

Morgan and Jacey

The single ladies try to catch the bouquet.

Jacey and JoJo play after the wedding.

This girl is cute trouble!

End of School--Par-tay!!!

2010-06-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

I could blog about my failure to potty train my fourth child but I will stick to the last day of school for now.
My camera was broken on the first day of school, but I was able to capture the last day of school.

She loves them and they tolerate her. :)

Jared and his fifth grade teacher Mrs. Craley

I embarrassed Jared taking pictures of his classmates and him.

Jaden and his much loved 2nd grade teacher Mrs. Hudson

Jacey and her K teacher Mrs. Sewell

Jacey and her friend Paige

Brayden, Jacey and Paige

We are excited for summer and all of the fun things planned.

Yay For Summer Break!!

Day Three

2010-06-08T17:15:00.000-07:00

No pictures. I forgot my camera that day. Boo!! And we did some new stuff like visit Tom Sawyer's Island and we met up with our friends, The Bousfields. I didn't get one picture from that day. But it lives in my memory. We got home really late that night and the kids had a great time waking up for school the next day. :) It was a fantastic vacation. Jackson is getting older and I can see fun family vacations ahead for us. Next stop: Pismo Beach and MEXICO!!

Day Two

2010-06-08T07:53:00.000-07:00

Day two started off with California Adventure. John and Jackson took the slow security line so while we waited for them to catch up, we took pictures in the letters.

Taking a break.

Bug's Life

This little girl asked Jacey to hold her hand and they remained this way all during the ride.

He went on this at least 7 times. Lots of waiting time for others going on Screamin'. Loved every minute of it.

Likes to be silly too.

Saw a short line for a character. While Jackson LOVED Minnie and Mickey- Woody freaked him out.

Tower of Terror

We had a great 2nd day. We ended it a little early and went back to the hotel to meet our friends, the Zollingers, for dinner and swimming. Somehow I didn't get a picture of that. I did manage to get into the hot tub that night with my phone in my pocket!! Woops. Silver Lining--New iphone!

Day One

2010-06-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

We went to Disneyland for 3 days a couple of weeks ago. This is the longest time we've ever spent there. We had a blast!! We spent 3 FULL days at the park. Everyone was super behaved, happy and in the mood to get along! Jackson loves small world!
Jared is going through a bunny ear stage I think.

Jacey is way braver than I was at her age and went on Space Mountain, Thunder Mountain, Matterhorn, Indiana Jones and Tower of Terror.

Snack time!

Tarzan's Treehouse

This little boy was SOOOO excited to see Minnie. If you look closely he is carrying a little Minnie dressed exactly like the Big Minnie!

Day one- A success!

Happy #8!! Jaden

2010-06-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

Jaden turned 8 on May 23. He is super excited to be baptized in July! We decided to use our passes and make a trip to Disneyland. We arrived in Anaheim in the evening and went to celebrate Jaden's actual birthday at a yummy Mexican restaurant. We were all excitedly anticipating our next 3 days to be spent at Disney/

Happy Birthday Jaden! We Love You!

The River

2010-06-06T07:07:00.000-07:00

This is the kind of fun that happens when you live near Nilssons. We got a last minute call on Memorial Day that more Nilssons were in town and that if we moved quickly, a trip down the Kern river would be had. John quickly grabbed Jared and Jaden and Jacey and off they went.
On the bus to the starting spot.

He's excited!!!

SO is he!

Jacey on the front of the raft.

Jacey at the front and cute Beckam at the back.

I want to go next time!!

It's a Milestone!

2010-06-04T07:27:00.000-07:00

My mom celebrated her 60th Birthday this month! We were able to surprise her (kind of) and get all of the kids together.
We had dinner at The Belvedere in the Padre Hotel.

We went back to my parents house where we celebrated some more and watched a video montage of her life.

These cute girls are trouble!! I should have taken a better picture of it. but when we were out to dinner, they covered this playhouse in crayons--inside and out without the babysitters noticing. That was fun when John and I bought paint and primed and re-painted it. Grrrr.

Jared, ,Tyler and Jaden

Jacey and Joanna

My mom, sister, brother and me--the other brother had to leave early.

Happy Birthday MOM!!

Jared Turns 11

2010-06-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

Jared turned 11 this May 5. Grandma and Grandpa took him to lunch to celebrate. He loves his carbs!

Jared woke up grumpy on his birthday. Mom was in the hospital and things were a little crazy. When he got home from school these balloons cheered him right up. Luckily Grandma was there to try and make his day a special one.

Jake made an appearance.

Jared wanted Peanut Butter cookies instead of a cake. Jaden helped make them.

Here are the finished products.

Gathered around to sing

Happy Birthday Jared!

Random- May 2010

2010-05-31T07:46:00.000-07:00

Well I decided to get in a quick post or two before May is over. I assure you we haven't been doing much of this during the crazy month of May. With 2 birthdays, my Mom's 60th Birthday, 2 surgeries, the end of the semester for me and for John, plus a trip to Disneyland, we have been quite busy.
This boy is growing up.

He is still trouble though. When the bathroom stools aren't tall enough go and get a bar stool.

Washing barbie mermaids hair.

Jaden saved his money and bought himself a tetherball.

Other Spring Happenings

2010-04-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Tea parties and play time with cousins.

Easter 2010

2010-04-17T07:49:00.000-07:00

My sister came to town, so we went over to Grandma and Grandpa's to dye Easter eggs.
I think I was helping him too much. He wants his independence!

Let's taste it.

Jacey and JoJo

Hunting eggs at Grandma and Grandpa's on Easter

Jackson- 2 1/2 years

Jacey- 5 1/2 years

Jaden- almost 8

Jared- almost 11!!

Spring Breakin

2010-04-16T19:34:00.000-07:00

We had a great start to Easter Break- 2010. We went camping with the Christensen and Luthi families in Malibu at Leo Carrillo. We had a super fantastic time. I am not a camping person, but we took John's dad's tent trailer and that was wonderful. So nice to have a bed to sleep in off the ground and a heater.

We hung out at the beach all day long for 2 days. Unfortunately I didn't lather myself too well with sunscreen and fried my forehead and legs. Lesson learned. Maybe.

John got to do one of his favorite activies- boogie boarding. Here he is with Alan Christensen.

Jacey was in heaven with all the teenage girls. Here shesis with Jaime and Abby. She loves them!

Jaden found a school friend-- Ben Seaney

Not a great picture of Jackson, but I thought the background looked fake in this picture.

Dallin and Jackson digging holes.

Back at the campsite. Lots of fun cooking and hanging out by the fire. And Smores every night! Can't do that in a hotel room!

Vaun and Cherilyn came to visit for the day. (And Zane :))

Jacey found a new friend- Drew Urmston

Posing around the campground

Getting ready for senior pictures.

On our way home we stopped at Neptune's Net in Malibu on PCH- a restaurant featured on the Food Network Channel.

We finally got our seafood fix! yay! Couldn't go home without eating clam chowder.

Jacey and Isabelle

He was the best kid. He is getting older and it's becoming easier to travel.

Outside the restaurant. Time to go home!

I hope they call me on a mission

2010-04-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

Wow- can't believe this kid is old enough to go on a mission. We had the great privilege to go to St. George a couple of weeks ago to celebrate Kenny going on a mission. He is going to the Houston South Texas Mission. We got to go through the temple with him. So amazing! We love this boy!
Kenny with his happy parents!

The girls

The guys

We went on a hike to Red Rock park on Saturday.

Jacey and Emma

Jaden and Noah

Uncle Ross with Jacey and Jackson Ross

Beautiful rock and the weather was gorgeous that day.

Jacey and Jackson

She so loves Kenny!

Bonnie and Carl

After church on Sunday, we got to hang out with the family. This is Kieralyn (Kelly's daughter) and Jacey. They had a blast playing together.

Ethan is a great cousin to Jackson.

Video games are always a must.

Me with my sis in laws

Cousins

A great weekend!

We can't wait to hear about the adventures of successes of Elder Hart!

Disneyland- Girls' trip!

2010-02-16T14:50:00.000-08:00

February found us off to Disneyland again! I happened to have a day off work that our passes didn't have blocked out. woo hoo!

We went down the night before with Emily and Kejia. We had such a great time! So easy with 2 moms and 2 girls.

The night before at Downtown Disney--st the Lego Store.

On the tram.

These girls are so cute! They had such a good time together!

Emily nicely went on this one so I didn't have to.

Playing in Toon Town

We met up with the Bousfields that day. Jacey amazed me by going on Big Thunder Mountain AND Space Mountain and putting her hands up on both rides.

After our long day. Too bad I waited till the end of the day to have a picture taken of me. Next Disney trip- just me and John. yay!

Vegas Baby!

2010-02-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to get away a couple of weekends ago to Las Vegas with the girls- Vaun and Rebecca. We met Rebecca's sister and friends from SLC. We had a great weekend! The highlight was the Tom Jones concert. I'm not a huge fan, but I do like his music. And I LOVE to hear any live music. Such a treat! That man still has an incredible voice at the age of 69! He was all gray haired- goatee and all. Our party stole the show with a couple of size 30 something underwear and the bass player.
Posing outside the theater at the MGM Grand.

Hanging out on the strip. Las Vegas is not my favorite vacation spot by far, but it was nice to be kid less and fancy free for 48 hours.

Oh yeah- celebrity sighting. Pete Rose signing autographs in the mall in Caesar's. haha.

Arrow of Light

2010-01-17T14:09:00.000-08:00

Jared received his Arrow of Light- Cub Scouting's highest honor.

The Bishop discussed the parts of an arrow and each boy received his very own arrow. Very cool! He is happy to move onto the 11 year old scouts, especially because I won't be his leader anymore.

Our First Visit

2010-01-17T09:39:00.000-08:00

We decided kind of last minute to go to Utah for our 2 week Christmas break. I then proceeded to invite ourselves to people's houses. Our first destination was the Hamblins in good 'ol Hooper, Utah. Jacey was in heaven. She LOVES her cousin Emma.
The boys hanging out.

Jackson kept busy.

Our kids were so excited to see, feel, play with SNOW.

It was so cold. Too cold.

We went sledding across the street at a park. The kids had a great time and the adults did too, except for me. Jackson and I lasted only about 30 minutes. It was WAY too cold.

Jacey

Adam

Jackson liked sledding too. Here he is falling off. He didn't cry, just got back up and went down again.

Me and Jackson and Lisa

We fell off.

Jacey

The sad ending to our day. Lisa was encouraged by John to go standing on a skim board (used on the ocean) down the hill. She made it to the bottom and then fell off. She broke her wrist really really bad. That ended our sledding day. She spent the rest of the day in the ER. She ended up having to have surgery on her wrist. They had to put in a 3 inch metal plate connected to her bones with bolts. She broke it way bad. Poor girl. She was such a good sport. She still managed to stay up late with us to party.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-17T08:14:00.000-08:00

Before we left for Utah, we had a party at my parent's house. The kids, of course, had to act out the nativity.

Jackson dressed like an angel for about a minute.

Cute angels

Mary and the angel/camel
Jaden's present from Grandpa and Grandma

We were in Utah for the actual Christmas day at Grandma Simpson's house. Jacey got a new robe.
Jared was excited about video games.

That night, we ventured out in the cold cold COLD weather to visit temple square. It was seriously like 8 degrees, but I was determined our kids would see it lit up.

The Hamblins met us there. Jared and Isaac.

Unfortunately, because it was Christmas, all the buildings closed at six. We got there at 5:45 PM and that meant we couldn't' go into a building for shelter. We didn't last very long outside. Maybe 20 minutes.

Jaden

Our family bundled up. Check out my bright $7 boots Lisa found for me in Walmart.

The whole group

Jazz Game and 15!! Years

2010-01-16T17:31:00.000-08:00

A highlight to our Utah trip was when we got to attend a Utah Jazz basketball game. We had amazing front row floor seats and had an amazing time. SOOO fun! I have to throw in that we celebrated our FIFTEEN year anniversary while were in Utah and even got to spend a night away from the kids.
The Jazz Bear warming up the crowd before the game.

Andrei Kirilenko

Okur

Booooozer

It's so fun to sit so close and to be able to hear what they are saying throughout the game.

We were really close to the visiting team- the Philadelphia 76ers- a man behind us had a great time heckling one of their players all night.

This is the first night Kyle Korver played after being out with an injury.

Handsome guy!

Here's a video of a Jazz basket. I can't wait to go again!! It is seriously the best time ever!

Deer Valley

2010-01-16T16:57:00.000-08:00

We got the chance to visit Deer Valley while we were in Utah. Great fun! Here's Jackson ready for some sledding.
Cute boy!

John was beyond thrilled to go skiing for two days. He had such a blast. Here he is gearing up. I didn't get a picture of him actually skiing though.

John took the next two pictures while he was skiing.

Pretty white stuff.

The cool thing was once the ski resort closed the kids could use the ski run in the backyard for sledding. Here they are hiking up the hill.

Jacey had no fear.

Jaden zoomed down the hill.

Jared and Karly or Ariana.

Jaden posed with cute raccoon.

I stepped out on the deck to snap a picture of the skiers.

They had lots of playtime with cousins and LOTS of toys to play with. Couldn't get Karter to smile.

Jackson checking out the winter wonderland. We had the best time ever! Thanks Roneys!

Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-16T15:59:00.000-08:00

We spent New Year's Eve with my cousin Denice and her mega family in Provo, Utah. We had a great time with them and so did our kids. Here we are playing a mean game of speed scrabble.
Jackson and Karson

The mostly liked playing with each other.

At midnight, downtown Provo.

Jacey enjoyed a New Year's day bubble bath before we left to start the long trek back home.

Jaden enjoys a bath too.

We stopped at John's bro's Ross' house for a pit stop on the way home.

John and Ross enjoyed playing and singing.

Brothers- wish they could hang out more often.

I taped each kid staying "Happy New Year" just after midnight. Love Jackson's!

Superstar Jared

2009-12-18T20:16:00.000-08:00

December has been a very busy month for Jared. I didn't get pictures of it, but he competed in the Oral Language Festival at the district level after winning his classroom , his grade level and school competition. He didn't move on to Regionals, but I'm hoping his success this year will motivate him to actually practice and put some effort into his performance. I was teaching him about talents and how we need to develop them. I told him that he is very talented in public speaking, drama etc. He says, "I don't want that talent." Hmmm. He also sang a solo in sacrament meeting with the primary children. He sounded so good, but he doesn't want that talent either. Next, he received a student of the month award.

And lastly, he performed with his school's beginning band. He was on trumpet. Pretty fun!

Jared is such a great kid!

Ballet Class

2009-12-18T19:06:00.000-08:00

It was parent observation day at Jacey's ballet class.

Can't help but show that personality.

She got some air on that leap.

They did a dance at the end for the parents.

Christmas Adventures

2009-12-18T18:45:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, Amy and I took our girls to see the Nutcracker. We had a great girls day out.
Jacey and Alyssa

Pretty Amy and Alyssa waiting for the show to start.

Best Friends!

Me and Jacey

Later that night was the ward Christmas party.

Jared refused to sit on Santa's lap and Jackson went hysterical.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-18T18:29:00.000-08:00

I finally updated our blog after a month--be sure to check out our Savior of the World pics below the Disney ones--I started that entry awhile ago, so it posted before the Disney one. Life has sure been busy. We had a great Thanksgiving in town with my side of the family. Jared and Jamey made their traditional cheese ball.
Grandma with Jackson

Jackson loves the playhouse

All the grandkids on my side including Jake's new baby Corbin.

Jared-10, Jackson-2, Jaden-7, Jacey-5

I thought it was cute Jaden and JoJo had the same missing tooth smile. She knocked hers out on the kitchen floor.

Disney Again

2009-11-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, we managed to get out of town and visit Disneyland again! It was this little boy's first time and everyone was excited about it. We finally decided to bring him along after leaving him at home on previous trips. The kids discussed and planned for weeks about who would sit by Jackson on what ride. We went down on Thursday evening and stayed with our friends, the Zollingers, who were so nice to let us use them for a hotel. They are conveniently located just 10-15 minutes from Disneyland's main gates.

I managed to get the camera out a few times. Visiting Disneyland with our WHOLE family for the first time EVER was busy. But everyone did a great job!

Waiting for Dumbo

After all that ride position talk, Jackson mostly rode with John on everything. You can see the top of his head here.

Jaden rode by himself.

Great day!

Silly boys

Waiting for John after one of our split ups.

Jacey and Jackson- Jacey rode Splash Mountain for the first time. She was terrified but was very brave. I told her she had to pick one ride to go one that she hadn't been on before, and if she did it, I wouldn't bother her the rest of the day about going on the others. She chose Splash Mountain and we sat together in the back. Unfortunately, we were riding with a bunch of 20 year old boys who thought it was great to scream loudly the whole and time and have water fights. We hardly got wet on the ride, but I got soaked by the boys riding with us. I yelled, "STOP IT RIGHT NOW!" I think they felt bad. Good. When we came out of the ride, John had Tigger Tails for us!! YUM!!!

Jacey

More posing

He was such a good boy and was not afraid of anything!

Jacey was thrilled to catch the whole HSM 3 performance. We walked by it when were there in September, but it was 103 degrees outside and there was no way I was sitting outside to watch it.

She was picked to go up and dance.

Jared and Jaden- Jaden went on Tower of Terror for the first time (twice!) and loved it.

Jared resting his legs at the parade.

Dancing in the streets before the parade

Waiting for mom and Jared to zoom by on California Screamin.

We were there on the first day of the Christmas decorations. Disney knows how to do it right. Missed getting a picture of the huge tree in the park though.

Finally tuckered out after a full day at the park. Waiting for the tram. Too bad this didn't last. He woke up when we put him in the car and screamed for an hour before falling back asleep. It was a great day though and we hope to do it again soon!!

Savior of the World

2009-11-19T09:18:00.000-08:00

I am finally posting. It's been a month. John, Jaden and I had the wonderful opportunity to be in our stake's presentation of the Savior of the World. John had a main part--Cleopas--Jaden was a Micham's nephew, a temple boy and an angel, and I was in the Angel Chorus. It was a great experience and we had so much fun getting to know other members of our stake.
Jaden- a temple boy

Here I am in the choir loft singing with the angels.

Jaden

John and his right hand man, Christopher Slaughter, singing a duet.

John and Chris

John did a great job!!

John with some of the apostles

Rehearsal

Behind the scenes

Jaden had fun running around with Nate Krumm

The kids hanging out backstage

Angel Jaden

Jaden and Nate

John as angel and Christopher as Nephi- 1st Act

2nd Act- Cleopas and the disciple

John and Mark Williams--institute director

Us as angels

Jaden was so tired-we were at the Stake Center for 10+ hours on Saturday.

John decided to shave his beard the minute we walked in the door after the last performance. Let's face it. I was glad to see it gone too. He had it for over 3 months!

He took at least 10 years off--nice cuts on his neck. :)

We had such a great time; it was bittersweet when it was over!

Freak Accident!

2009-11-17T10:26:00.000-08:00

On Saturday I asked all the of the kids to find some way to help me. Jacey decided to vacuum. She was happily manhandling the too big for her machine when I heard screaming and crying. I ran to her and found her holding her head. In all the hysterical-ness I manage to make out that she had bent down to look at something on the ground (a spider she thought) when her hair got sucked into the still going vacuum. A big chunk of her hair was ripped out. Poor girl. The remaining hair was all singed and our house smelled terrible--like burnt hair.
The culprit--next time unplug the vacuum before you investigate.

There was nothing to do but go get a haircut. We have to part it on the other side now to disguise the still shorter uneven hair on the left side of her head.

She's still so cute!!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-02T10:31:00.000-08:00

Yay! Halloween's over!!!! I am a mean mom and made my kids wear costumes we already had. I've been letting them buy them every other year and this was an off year. Jackson was the doggy that Jared, Jaden and Jacey have all worn--sometimes more than once. Jacey was a witch again but I did splurge for some green makeup. Jaden was a pirate and Jared was Darth Vader.
We went to to a potluck and trunk or treat party at the park. My mom was worried that Jackson would wander off at the park or get hit by a car, so she took him to her house. That was fine by me. It was nice not to worry about him and he got to go trick or treating with just grandma and grandpa in their neighborhood.

John is still sporting a beard for the stake play that is THIS weekend, so he went as the unabomber. Posing with Shane Hanna.

All clean after a night of fun. Next up, Thanksgiving!!

FHE- Halloween Style

2009-10-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

We made haunted graham cracker houses for Family Home Evening. One of my bestest friends bought everything I needed for it and gave it it me. So nice!!! And then later that night when we were making them, she realized that the generic brand graham crackers she had bought for us were not going to work. She sent her husband back to the store to buy the tried and true Honey Maid brand of crackers and he brought some to our house too. My kids thought I was the best mom and had a great night. Thanks to Amy! Love ya!
John's house- he took great pride in the fact that his looked the best.

Jared's

Jacey with her house

And Jaden. Jackson didn't make one. He went to bed at 7:00 that night (yay!) and I spent my time trying to help the kids build their structure.

Student of the Month

2009-10-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

Jaden was awarded Student of the Month for September. First one of the year! Good job! Jaden continues to be an awesome student and excels in every way. Short video of the principal talking about him.

Weekend Away

2009-10-18T16:40:00.000-07:00

We managed to get a quick night away last weekend. John and I went to Disneyland all day Friday. No pictures were taken. After carrying around a heavy backpack for two days with the kids, I didn't want to carry ANYTHING. And I didn't. Not even a camera. It was so wonderful. Saturday morning we woke up and went the LA temple. After that we ate on the Santa Monica Pier and managed to take a couple of pictures. We had such a great time and I hope it happens again soon.

The Fair

2009-10-18T16:30:00.000-07:00

We told the kids we weren't going to the Great Kern County Fair this year since we spent so much money at Disneyland, but John got some free tickets and we decided to use them. Jared didn't want to go and called Grandma to see if he could go over there while we went. Silly boy!
We ate some yummy fair food and saw the sites. The only pictures I managed to take were of Jacey and Jackson before the pig races.

Later that night. Wanted to get John's nice beard. Can you say, "yuck!" He has been growing his beard since school started because he is in our Stake play. The play takes place in New Testament time, so the men are suppose to be realistic looking. Can't WAIT for the play to be over, so he can shave that thing off! Three more weeks!!

Disneyland

2009-10-18T15:10:00.000-07:00

In September I took Jacey, Jaden and Jared to Disneyland for 2 days. My dad was attending a conference in Anaheim, so we crashed at his hotel room. My nice NICE friends watched Jackson while John was at work. So wonderful to not cart him around too. We had a great time even though Anaheim had record heat the two days we were there. 98 degrees one day and 103 the next. Can you believe that?? Plus I had a cold, but other than that. :)
Grandma was with us on the first day and she and Jacey stood in line for TWO hours to meet 3 princesses. Crazy! Jacey had about had it by the end, but she stuck it out and was happy to meet them. I guess you're suppose to take your kid to get a $200 makeover while you're waiting. Yeah right.

Belle and Jacey

Sleeping Beauty

Snow White

Jared and Jaden on Dumbo

Grandma with the kids

Jared was excited to go on stage for the Jedi Training. Jaden wanted nothing to do with it. Way to shy!

Fighting Darth Mal

The nice thing about the first day is that there were two adults and we could split up. I took Jacey to the Tiki Room- which Jared and Jaden DID NOT want to do.

Jaden got a snake for his souvenir.

We were excited to ride Small World since it was closed the last time we were there.

They were wiped out the first day. Luckily we took the ART and it took us right to the front of the hotel.

The next day was so dang HOT! I made Jared and Jaden go on the carousel with Jacey (I hate spinning rides.) Don't they look happy about it?

Jacey and Mulan

Goofy

Jacey with Pluto-- Pluto threw a fit after this picture was taken and made Jaden take another picture with him in it.

Pluto got what he wanted.

Because I was by myself, everyone had to do everything together. Jared and Jaden were not happy about going to Playhouse live. I thought it would be a nice break from the heat. Jaden didn't fool me though. Look at the fun he is having. :)

Toon town- one nice thing about the heat was the park wasn't too crowded. Southern Cal residents probably opted to stay home on such a hot day.

Jacey and Minnie. We love Disneyland. In fact, we ended up buying Southern Cal annual passes. John and I have been back by ourselves. So much fun!

The Clarks!!

2009-10-14T14:01:00.000-07:00

We were so excited my cousin Katie and family decided to drive out of their way from Anaheim to Bakersfield for a quick too quick visit on their way home to Boise. We haven't seen each other in 3 years!! So sad.
Katie with the kiddos.

Had to slip this one in--Jaden playing soccer. We all went to the park to watch him that night.

Katie and my mom

Hethe, Grandpa and Jackson

Jacey and Hayden like each other so well. Jacey took Hayden right to the girl toys. They had so much fun together.

Jacey adores Hayden.

This is Noah. He is SOOO smart. He is only two months older than Jackson but was talking in complete sentences with unbelievable vocabulary. It was freaky. I'm used to Jackson's babbling.

Hayden, Jacey and Jaden

Katie and Noah

We're so glad that we got to see them. I hope it's not 3 years before he see them again!

Terrible Two- Help Me!

2009-10-05T17:35:00.000-07:00

The other day I heard a loud bang in the other room. This is what I find.
Jackson takes the wooden dowel out of the sliding glass door and whacks my framed proclamation picture that is hanging high on the wall above his head.

Grrrr. He showed no remorse. Just had a big ol smile on his face. Love destructive 2 year olds.

First Day of School

2009-10-04T21:59:00.000-07:00

My camera was not working on the first day of school, so unfortunately this is the only picture I have of that day--taken by my friend Rebecca the mother of Jacey's friend, Walker, who is in the picture with her. They started Kindergarten and are in the same class this year.

Summer Beach Trip #3

2009-09-11T06:18:00.000-07:00

We went on one last summer beach trip in August to Carpinteria with John's mom and Sister Lisa and family. We had such a good time. Our kids love each other and we love spending time together.
Jackson in the sand. We didn't have much sun there, but the kids still enjoyed the water. The Utah cousins had to set the example in order for our kids to get in the ocean.

Adam tried skim boarding- here he is falling off!

The girls chatted it up.

Jackson made a break through on the 3rd summer beach trip and got his feet wet.

Jacey loves Emma!

Adam the artist made a mickey mouse sand design.

We ventured to Santa Barbara one day in search of the sun. We toured the Mission there. Nice picture op outside the mission. Kind of weird. John took advantage.

Jacey

This was neat for Jared because he had studied the California missions in 4th grade.

Jaden

Beautiful Mission- Emma, Isaac, Ethan, Jared

Cousins

Next, we decided to visit the Natural History Museum

They had a really cool display- Butterflies Alive! We got to go in an outdoor atrium and walk around with the butterflies. Hundreds of butterflies flying around right next to us.

Jacey

John went around trying to capture a blue one on camera.

Jacey watching a butterfly eat some fruit

Bonnie, Lisa

Jaden's reaction after one landed on him.

John got a couple to land on his fingers.

The mission through the trees at the museum.

We did find sun in Santa Barbara- we went on a walk at the wharf.

Adam and Lisa

Hanging out in our motel room- Jackson loved Emma.

Another beach day- We drove south a little to Rincon beach. They played with these "houses."

Jared finally tried boogie boarding and loved it. Jaden liked it too.

Those kids were out there for hours and hours.

Jared and Jaden

They got Grandma to sit in the house.

Jacey, Jackson, Noah

Summer Beach Trip #2

2009-09-09T08:36:00.000-07:00

We went to Pismo Beach in August with my family. It was so nice being at the coast. I was a little disappointed that it was basically overcast the whole time, but it's hard to complain when we were escaping the intense heat of a Bakersfield summer.
Within the first few minutes of arriving, Jacey and Jaden start spraying themselves with this hose. Nice.

Down the long staircase to the beach. It was fun lugging Jackson up and down these stairs.

Jaden cold and regretting his decision to soak himself first thing with the hose.

Jared, Jacey and Morgan

Jacey and Jared climbing the cliffs- have to enlarge to really see them.

I can understand Jared doing this, but Jacey is crazy. She wants to do everything the boys are doing. Makes me nervous.

Coming down.

Almost down.

Our hotel

Splash Cafe- had to eat outside-no room for our big group.

The nice thing about the hotel was that it had grounds for the kids to run and play. We were on the first floor, so we just had to walk out the sliding door and the kids could play.

Jacey and Morgan

Nice view

Jackson and Kaylee

Our Family

The ocean is freezing!!

Jaden

Jared is missing this day- He decided to go tour the San Luis Obispo mission with Grandma and Grandpa

Don't know what he's doing here

To motivate the kids to read and write this summer we had an incentive chart. Every 10 stars they would get to do something. Going to a waterpark was for 30 stars. They could go up to 50 stars but they stopped at 30. We ran out of summer. On our last day, we stopped in Paso Robles to go this waterpark. Grandma and Grandpa took Jackson home with them. This is Jared on the Toilet Bowl slide.

Jacey

Cute girl got SO tan this summer.

Jared had a great time!

John had fun too.

And there's me.

Another Birthday

2009-09-06T07:07:00.000-07:00

This cute kid turned 2 on August 22!! We love Jackson so much. Can't believe he is two, but it's SOO nice to not have a baby around here. He is so much fun and we are loving the morning when the other 3 are now in school.
Isn't he a joy? He wouldn't let me get a good picture of him on his birthday. Plus, when you get a ball and basketball hoop for your birthday and 3 other kids try to dominate it, you can get kind of grumpy!

Grandma Simpson was visiting!!

Finally a turn to shoot.

A trip to Rosemary's completed his day. Still wouldn't pose for a picture. He had a great day though. Happy Birthday Jackson!!

And then she was five!!

2009-09-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

Today is Jacey's 5th Birthday! I have a bunch of blogs overdue about our summer adventures and I haven't even posted about Jackson's 2nd birthday yet, but I am taking the time to wish Jacey a happy day. My fairly new camera is broken and we have to send it back to the manufacturer, so I'm not even getting any pictures of her on her 5th bday. Jacey is so wonderful. We love her so much. She is silly and happy and cuddly and loving. She adds lots of spice to this family and helps mixes things up. She was so excited to start Kindergarten and is having fun there daily. Here are some quick pics of Jacey over the past 5 years.

First Bday

Happy Birthday Jacey! We lova you!

Mormon Night at Dodger Stadium

2009-08-09T07:42:00.000-07:00

We attended Mormon Night at the LA Dodgers. It was lots of fun. It has been at least 10 years or more since I've been to a Dodger game. We took the three oldest and left Jackson at home with Grandma. I kind of wish we had only taken the oldest since the other 2 didn't watch much and did a lot of complaining. Next time.
They liked the food.

Jacey liked all the people and the camera.

Think Blue!

Posing before the game-- we had pretty good seats behind home plate in the reserve section.

Elder Ballard and Elder Dalton threw out the first pitch.

Cute.

Manny Ramirez

Manny again

Jacey going looney as it got later and later--it was actually an exciting ending to the game. The dodgers were down the whole game and they hit a home run with 2 guys on base to win it! The crowd went wild! The video below was all Jacey wanted to do towards the end--make videos.

Visit to the Zollingers

2009-08-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

John spent a week at Young Men's camp, so I packed up the kids again and took them to visit our great friends the Zollingers in Bellflower, CA. We had a super time hanging out, the kids all got along, and except for the parts where Jackson drove me crazy, we had a great trip!
Somehow these are the only pictures I snapped. Cute pictures of Jacey and Spencer.

Jackson and Oliver. Cannot believe how big this dog has gotten.

Summer Adventures

2009-08-01T06:51:00.000-07:00

In July, my mom, dad, sister, niece, my four kids and I took a trip to Ventura Beach. Lots of kids make for a crazy time, but it was fun and we managed to squeeze a lot in.
The first thing the kids wanted to do was swim.

At the Harbor

The highlight of the trip was the Santa Barbara Zoo. Everyone had a great time except for Jackson who is kind of a pain and hitting his stride as a terrible two (almost.)

We got pretty close- only a glass wall separating us.

He did like the train ride

Jacey and JoJo

Feeding the giraffe

Jacey's souvenir

Jackson liked the ant hill. Fun to slide down.

Monkeying around

lunch at the zoo

Grandpa with the big boys

the gang

hanging out in the hotel room

baba time--these are getting thrown away on his second birthday coming up in 2 weeks.

Jamey reading to the little ones

Jamey and Joanna

Grandma and Jaden

Jacey out on the rocks with Grandpa

Jackson is scared of the ocean. Wha???? I had to hold him mostly the whole time.

Jaden worked on digging a hold--hit water.

Then he buried himself in it.

Jacey is the only one that got in. It was cold--cold water and cold outside.

This kid is crazy but we still love hi Time to go home! Fun times! We doing it again soon.

American Idol Baby

2009-08-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

I have been a fan of American Idol since halfway through season one. Some seasons I've liked more than others. This year was pretty much the best year EVER. I totally had a favorite and rooted for him all the way. My mom , sister and I went to Ontario to see the top ten in concert. I was a total Glambert (the name for Adam Lambert fans). I painted my nails black and everything. We had pretty good seats and I had a great time.

Whenever he flashed on the screen, the crowd went wild!

There he is. He rocked! Sounded as good as ever! When it was his turn, he sang about 4 songs amid screams. Everyone was up on their feet. I felt kind of bad for the winner, Kris Allen. I think he is good, but his style is kind of softer, quieter and everyone sat during his numbers. And then people totally started leaving before the show was even over. I hope he didn't notice.

This is the stage before the show.

Good times!

Baby is a Blessing

2009-07-28T20:06:00.000-07:00

We traveled to Vacaville to witness the blessing of baby Corbyn. He's a cute chunk!

The Johnson family minus Kaylee

Jacey holding her newest cousin

We went over to Jen's parents' house to swim and eat dinner the night before the blessing. The kids had fun in the pool.

Jackson loves his "ookies"

An attempt to gather my kids for a family picture. Never happened.

Love this guy but he is hard to travel with.

Jacey and Tyler

A Milestone

2009-07-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

On a recent trip out of town, we hit this milestone on our van. Can't believe it! Especially since we bought the car with 20 miles on it!
How many more miles will it go??

Reunited and it feels so good!

2009-07-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

We got a quick overnight visit from the Jeff Gabbitas family on their way to a family reunion.
It was soo good to see them. It's been about 3 years!!

Jared and Rebecca- she is SO talented. They need to get this girl on the stage! She sang for us, in 3 part harmony even!

Jacey loved little Julia

Cute family! Love Ryan's pose! ha!

Not sure why I'm posting this- taken before hair and makeup. Jacey tries to imitate Ryan's pose.

Our chillins- all nine of them. A trip to Tuscon and Mexico is in the works. We gotta hang out more often.

Ballet Time

2009-07-05T21:33:00.000-07:00

Jacey has asked for a couple of years to take dance. I told her she could when she started Kindergarten. She started her first dance class a couple of weeks ago. She was so excited to get the dance clothes and dance shoes.
She insists her hair be in a bun. She informed me after the first class that the bun wasn't good enough and to do it better next time. Hmmmm.

She did very well in class, except for the time when she ran around the room doing the chicken dance and the teacher made her sit out.

She loves her Jackson.

Doggy Photoshoot

2009-07-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

My friend writes for a local family magazine and she was writing an article about Summer Fun (I think, i haven't seen the article yet) and she wanted a picture of Jared and Jaden playing with Lola. I thought I'd go out in the backyard and snap a few pictures. It was harder than I thought. Getting a puppy to pose wasn't easy. This is the picture that is in the magazine. I need to go find a copy somewhere in town. They usually have the magazine in Drs offices etc.
Jaden and Lola

Jacey wanted in on it.

We are still surviving puppyhood. The kids like her. We tolerate her.

Piano Recital

2009-07-01T10:55:00.000-07:00

Jared had a piano recital in May. He did a great job!!! He definitely doesn't love playing the piano yet, but one day he'll thank me!

Princess

2009-07-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

Jacey went to a princess birthday party recently and I had to snap some pictures of her.
Strike a pose
She is such a happy, fun girl!

More Jaden Birthday

2009-07-01T07:46:00.000-07:00

I am so behind. Before we went to Utah, we celebrated Jaden's birthday at our house. The main reason is because he got a DS for his birthday, and we needed to give it to him before the drive to St. George.
Jacey and Morgan

Seven years old

He requsted a chocolate cake with white frosting.

John with Jackon and Kaylee

Happy Birthday Jaden!

Birthdays and Graduations

2009-06-09T07:37:00.000-07:00

Over Memorial Weekend, we traveled to St. George, Utah to attend Kenny's high school graduation! Cannot believe he graduated high school!!! We met John's family there and had a great weekend. We got to hang out with the Hamblins in the time share.

Kenny with Grandma and Grandpa Hart

Jacey trying the hat on.

Kenny, Saya and Mia- cute kids!

We all hung out by the pool one day.

Emma

Jacey's loves loungin'

Crazy Jackson

He spent his time throwing things into the pool.

John and Lisa--workout buddies.

We celebrate Jaden's 7th birthday while we were there!

Went out to ice cream for his birthday. He was the only one that got to get a waffle cone!

Happy Birthday Jaden!!!!!!

Finishing Preschool

2009-06-03T07:41:00.000-07:00

Jacey finished her 2nd year of preschool and is off to Kindergarten next year.
This is her cute teacher who went down the row of all the children and told cute stories about them. Here she is talking about how much of a tease Jacey is.

We Love Jacey!

Corbyn Jacob Johnson

2009-06-03T07:36:00.000-07:00

My brother Jacob and wife Jen had a baby on May 13!
Welcome to the family Corbyn.

This is minutes after he was born.

Happy Dad.

Honor Roll Luncheon

2009-06-02T19:31:00.001-07:00

Jared made honor roll all 3 quarters ( Now 4) and he and his fellow students were treated with lunch at Coconut Joe's Banquet Hall. Way to go Jared!
Not a good picture, but this is when his teacher was talking about Jared. She said something about him being fair and becoming a lawyer when he grows up.

Jared and his BFF Chang-ho

Jared and Bryce Thygerson

Last Choir Concert

2009-05-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

Jared had his Spring Choir Concert a few weeks ago. Doesn't he look thrilled to be there?? He mostly complained about choir and wanted to quit after the Christmas concert. I told him he could either write a letter of resignation to his choir director or stick it out for the year since he did commit to be in it for the whole year. He stuck it out. The concert was cute at always. The kids did a great job. Mr. Dyer (who is in Masterworks with me) is awesome! Always happy! Unfortunately for all the kids that love choir, it is being cut next year from the budget.

Mr. Eric Dyer and Jared

a couple of video clips- they loved the kazoos

Happy Birthday Jared!

2009-05-05T06:28:00.000-07:00

Jared turned 10 on Cinco de Mayo-- Here he is "being a male model."
He was surprised with a Nintendo DS-- very happy!

They thought it was a princess party- love Jacey's adoring look at Morgan.

Jackson kissing Kaylee

Double digits

He had a great day! He is such a wonderful son! He brings so much personality and spunk into our family!

Happy Birthday Jared!

Welcoming Corbyn

2009-05-03T06:08:00.000-07:00

We had a baby shower for Jake and Jen. They are having a baby boy on May 13th.

Celebrating Corbyn Jacob Johnson
Mom and Dad before the shower--picture taken by Jaden I think.

Preparing the drink

Has to get in silly pictures

Not sure where he got this flag--this was after the shower.

We had yummy catered El Pollo Loco- TONS of food

John talking to Cyndi Anthes

Cute Anthes Family

Jake's partner and wife

Shop talk

Jen's mom and sister and friend

Kids hiding out inside, watching movies--they found a cute girl to play with.

Cousins

2009-05-03T05:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon dinner--Johnson side cousins--missing Kaylee and JoJo.