Party of Seven

NIghttime 5 K run

2010-12-01T17:02:00.000-08:00

Barry and I recently ran a 5k night run. This is the first night race we've ever done together and I must say it was fun. People showed up wearing christmas lights and crazy outfits! The real reason I signed us up was we got a head lamp instead of a T-shirt! (Anything for something FREE!) Since we had a babysitter and the night was still young, we ended up (sweaty and all) at Cheerleaders Pub and Grill to eat and watch the BSU game. My kind of date night!!!

2010-12-01T16:33:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving was the first time all the Jardine siblings, spouses, and children were together in over 15 years! The only cousins missing were Brian's boys, they had Thanksgiving with their mom, Patsy. In all, we had 12 adults and 12 kids! It was so much fun. Some of the highlights were: Taking family pictures with all the adults and watching Aunt Val in motion. She is so talented. Eating yummy food for turkey day. Watching BSU loose to Reno while eating super hot wings with Mel, Aric and Val. Family pictures of just our family-that was a work out! Going to dinner with Val and Chris and Outback Steakhouse. Sue, our new sister-in-law, had a birthday that we were able to celebrate together. Thinking that Toys R Us at 10 pm the night before Black Friday was a good idea, then deciding it was not! Eating at Denny's with Mel and Bruce at 2 am waiting for Target to open at 4 am. Standing in the rain in front of Target at 3 am with Bruce trying his best to stop the shivers Mel and I had. Black Friday deals in all the great stores! Pulling an all nighter, coming home at 7 am Black Friday morning, having started the night before at 9:30pm. It was freakin FANTASTIC!!!!!!! It will be tough to beat!

NO school day!

2010-12-01T13:16:00.001-08:00

Starting Training

2010-11-18T15:54:00.000-08:00

I've noticed lately that loosing those few pounds isn't so easy anymore. I"ve tired lots of different things but haven't found that secret diet! So, after a long internal struggle of not being happy with what my mind sees and what I actually see in the mirror, I've decided to take things into my own hands. Drumroll......................................................I'm doing a Triathlon next summer! I'm doing it for several reasons. One for the reason I just stated, but mostly for my kids. It's them I think of when my alarm wakes me from sleep wonder at 4:45 am. It's them I think of when the thought of crawling out of my nice warm bed snuggled next to my husband who is sleeping like a baby gives me second thoughts. It's them I think of when it's still dark outside AFTER the workout. It's all for them. Why? I want to teach them that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. That setting a goal isn't instant gratification. You have to work really hard and for a long time to achieve some things in life. I want them to appreciate their bodies and take care of them by following my example.

I've already started my journey.

2010-11-10T18:46:00.000-08:00

A New Challenge In My Life

Raising five beautiful, healthy, strong-willed, entertaining children, working part time as a dental hygienist, PTA Vice President, ward Provident Living assistant while working on my goal of doing a triathlon next summer. What more could I add to this? I'm typing on a new computer (that I love), because I will need one that can keep up with my newly appointed task.

Marketing for Southern Springs Dental

I have no idea how to do any of this, nor where to start. But where there's a will, there's a way. I'm inspired by seeing success from close relatives who were daring enough to branch out and go for it. One of my biggest examples is my cousin, Melissa. Starting from a disgust of how expensive photographers are, she became one herself. Now she has an amazing business and her work is admired by many. I know dentistry isn't the same as photography, but why not use the internet for tools to build our practice too? Barry and I had a long talk a week ago about the need to expand his patient base and how do we do that? Hiring outside help can become pricey, mailers are incredibly expensive, and we've had bad experiences with the so called "office consultants". Nothing like spending a lot of money on someone who guarantees results, then falls very short. So the decision was made to do it ourselves. I have a prayer in my heart that the Lord will grant me patience, the ability to prioritize, and an identical "mini me" to fill in where I'm needed!

So, why am I writing this? This is where I'm starting. Trying out my blogging skills in a safe environment. I'm hoping this time next year, I will be writing how this was one of the best decisions we made!

Christmas at the Cabin '09

2009-12-29T18:09:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Our New Piano

2009-11-10T08:48:00.001-08:00

Thanks Grandpa Jardine!!! We are so excited for our newly refinished piano! Grandpa has a hobby of refinishing old pianos and this one took about 70-80 hrs. It turned out to be beautiful! We had to get 5 guys to help us bring it in.

Montana's been taking lessons, and now I'm going to!

Halloween Night 2009

2009-11-01T11:29:00.000-08:00

Every year we have a tradition to have family and friends over for Halloween. This year we had the Day family, along with Jeff and Angela Boyle, Phil and Melissa Nui, and Brian and Adrea Boyle. I made a huge pot of White Chilli and homemade rolls, along with my "Witchy-Rootbeer". With little kids, we had to get started before everyone got here, so unfortunately we don't have a picture of all the kids. It was a total of 16 kids plus 10 adults. What a party! My only regret was that once we started playing, I forgot to take pictures! After the gathering of candy, Angela and I took the older kids to a neighborhood spook alley at a friends house. The boys loved it, but the girls wanted to wait until it was closed and the lights went on before going through. (They take after me) Can't wait for next year!

Mike Day as the tall Grim Reeper

Natalie Jardine- Flave of Love

Hunter Jardine, Montana Jardine- Scream

Parker Boyle- grim reeper

Katie Boyle- Spider witch

Andrew Boyle- Batman

Brooke and Brittany- pirates

Lexus Jardine- US Diva

McKenly and Tylee Day- Faries

Parker Boyle, Mike Day, Hunter Jardine, Montana Jardine

Jardine Kids

Carmel Apple Night with the Gustin's

2009-10-27T14:53:00.000-07:00

This time of year is always so much fun, filled with traditions. friends, and families. One of our favorite families is the Gustin's. We met Cody and Heidi 14 years ago when we were newlywed's. They moved in above us in Madison Park Apartments in Rexburg, Idaho. We became fast friends, and a longtime friendship began. Now 14 years later, we have 10 kids between the two us, and we each have a set of twins.

Barry and Tyson
GQ
Anna, Montana, and Jake
Jake, you are one sticky boy! Oh, my!

Lexus, Gracie, and Brittany

Tyson eating his work of art.

Hunter eating his work of art. How can he fit that in his mouth?

At the table dipping the apples in carmel and chocolate.

Waiting for the apples to cool down so we can eat them.

What a fun bunch!
Gustin's-5

Jardine's-5

Hunter with no legs- what happened?

Wasatch Back Ragnar Relay 2009

2009-09-16T17:02:00.000-07:00

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You know in life, there are certain moments when you realize you are doing something you only dreamed of? It's something only real runners do? You think to yourself, I could never do that? Well...... I DID!!!!:)

June 19-20 became that day of possibilities. I was a part of a team of 12 women who ran from Logan, Utah to Park City Utah. A total of 188 miles. This was a 24 hr. race: no stopping, sleeping in the car or on high school gym floors, food and water provided by your team van, lots of sweat, running in the dark, you get the picture.

I was nervous to begin, but once we started, my body did things I never thought it could! My first leg was 7.9 miles-DOWNHILL. I crossed over Avon Summit, in the most beautiful country I've ever seen. Being out in the quiet open, seeing God's creation, was breathtaking. I remember thinking to myself, I can't believe I'm here.

By the end of my first leg, I had blisters all over my feet, including in between my toes. I walked an extra half-mile to the first-aid station where they taped my feet so I could keep going.

I was extremely nervous for my second leg: 8.1 miles-UPHILL, in the DARK OF NIGHT, summiting at East Canyon reservoir. The weather had turned cold and I'm sure my nerves didn't help the shivering! Dad was at that exchange to watch me go and take pictures. I remember thinking, I really don't want to do this! So I was layered like crazy with tank top, shirt, jacket, reflective jacket, head phones with i-pod, Garman running watch, and relay bracelet.

After about 1/4 mile I was roasting! I spent the next 1.5 miles trying to take everything off while I was running in the dark. I carried all my clothes I had just shed for another 1/2 mile until my pace car caught up to me.

Funny thing was, I wasn't thirsty or tired, but HUNGRY! Are you kidding me, I thought? Here it is 10:45 at night, I'm running up a long windy road and all I want to do is eat something? Finally when my car got to me, I asked for a granola bar, but could only take two bites before I thought I was going to puke!

Then, it was just me and the open road. Of all the things I've experienced in my life, this rates at the top. What I was most afraid of, turned out to be an amazing memory. Running in the middle of the night with just the stars to guide you is almost a spiritual experience. When I found myself alone, I would turn my i-pod off and listen to the sounds of nature and my breathing. Music was an interruption. I could see ahead of me the red blinking lights of the other runners, making it way up this hill. Every now and then, a runner would pass me, and encourage me to keep going. "You're doing great, keep it up" they would say. Not knowing I felt honored to be out there with them. One of them in a sea of darkness with only the red blinking lights ahead.

Then came the hill of all hills! I thought, I don't know if I can finish this! This is crazy! But by then all the pace cars were backed up and now along the route. As I passed each car, other runners in those cars would offer encouragement.

At last, I was at the top.......Rounding the dark corner to what seemed like the noon day sun! Flood lights, hundreds of people, and the EXCHANGE!!!!!! It brought tears to my eyes-even now as I remember it months later. I did it!!! There was my dad at midnight, camera in hand, waiting to congratulate me and photograph it. I felt amazing. The rush was incredible!

I could barley catch my breath before we were in the car driving to our next pit stop- South Summit High School, where I would get a few hours of sleep, a shower, and more mole skin for my feet.

My last leg was 3.2 miles through Heber. I always thought that would be my easiest leg, far from it. I struggled through that more than the other two. But to my surprise, as I was running a car pulled up next to me and in it was Lisa and Raegan! I almost cried! I needed that so bad-to have someone I knew there to support me! A few block later, an even bigger surprise- Robert, April, and Katelynn pulled up along side me!!! They had no idea how much I needed that. I was spent and at my limit. They truly are the reason I pushed on and made it to the finish.

I was the last runner for my van-now it was up to van 2 to take us to the finish line. We went ahead to wait for our 12th runner to come in. As we waited in Park City, the skies closed up and dumped torrential rain! It was cold, windy, and raining. Nothing like running in wind and black skies! By the time our 12th runner got to the finish line, we were all limping, but made a mad-dash as a team across that finish line!

It was great to have so much support from my family. Mom and dad flew up from Las Vegas to work as volunteers, Lisa worked as a volunteer at the starting line, Aunt Kathy was there helping, Barry drove down from Boise with all five kids to be there......So Blessed am I.

Lisa's trip to Boise

2009-05-19T19:08:00.000-07:00

So, I've been trying to get my sister to come and visit me by herself for almost 5 years now. Guess what!?!?!? She finally did!!!!! Hold the applause................

We had such a great time, even though I had major blood sugar issues while she was here. I'm glad she was here to help me!- Sorry Lisa!

We visited the Jus offices in Boise, tried on all kinds of clothes. Let our kids run a muck-wonder if they will ever let us come back?

I took her to Sephora for her first time, such an honor! Even talked her into a bronzer! (Yes, I am amazing).

Come back soon Lisa! (That means within a year)- Love Natalie

Fun Run 2009

2009-05-06T08:09:00.000-07:00

Every year the kids school does what's called a "fun run". It's designed to get kids and families out and exercising! It's done at the local high school, and they run a one mile course. We've done it for the past 3 years and have LOVED it! This was Lexus' first year, and boy was she excited!I was going for moral support, dressed in jeans, but Lexus informed me that "mommy, you are running with me. I want you to." So here we are at the starting line getting ready to go!
Barry, sitting on the side lines, with the twins! Go Lexus and Hunter! (Montana was camping with her friends this weekend)

Hunter and some of his classmates, at the starting lineThe picture just before the race began! (I was in for a big surprise, but had no idea just yet!)

Holy cow! She was off!!! I had a really hard time keeping up with her. She was in and out of people, then figured it would be easier to just blow past everyone if she took the inside track! As we were running she kept saying "I want to win!!!"Hunter, being in 3rd grade, was in the front at the starting line so he got a good head start on us. But low and behold, here she is passing him! All I heard was "hey, Hunter. isn't that your little sister in front of us?" He couldn't be overtaken by his sister 4 years younger, so he put the pedal to the metal and it was a race between the two!The finish line is in sight! I had to tell her to slow down so I could get ahead of her to take her picture coming in.

Go Lexi, GO!!

After the race food and drinks!

Everyone who finishes gets a medal! We are all winners.

Our Tribute to our Best Friend- Heidi

2009-04-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

Where do I begin? Tears flowing down my cheeks, rain falling outside, and here I am thinking about our beloved friend Heidi.....

Eleven years ago this spring, we brought home a new addition to our family and named her Heidi. She came after Katie, but before any children. She was my first running buddy, and I nearly killed her little legs making her run 1.5 miles at only 8 weeks old. But she never complained. Every time we'd come home from a run, she's head straight to the pool and jump in. I'd follow her shortly after I'd changed into my swimsuit and we'd swim and lay out together on a blow up bed that we floated on for hours!

She was Barry's first dog and first hunting dog. Every day he'd come home after school and spend hours out back training her with his whistle. I'll never forget the day I came home to see my husband floating in the pool in our tiny canoe, throwing Heidi out, blowing his whistle, and then making her swim back to him. Thus, getting her ready to bird hunt and jump in water after them. I was so worried what the neighbors would think.....seeing a grown man in a canoe in the middle of a pool, blowing a whistle!

Then Hunter came. She sniffed him up and down, decided he was a keeper, and slept under his crib to protect him. Half the time, as he got older, I'd find him in his sleeper p.j.'s, sound alseep, snuggled up to her on her doggie bed on the floor. Ten years later, that hadn't changed. When Hunter was sad or lonely, we'd find him on the floor next to her asleep. He'd always ask us to make sure Heidi was in his room before we'd go to bed. It wasn't until her last two or three days that she couldn't make it up the stairs to his room.

Each additional child born into our family was presented to her and she became more protective, because she took on the mother roll. These were HER babies. There was always a bark with each doorbell ring, and she had to sniff out everyone who entered her home. Now, hearing a knock at the door and no bark has an empty feeling to it.

Anyone who knows us, knew our love for our animals. Katie and Heidi were the best of friends, even though they were cat and dog. And as heartbreaking as it is that only 5 months ago we lost Katie, it seems fitting that Heidi is gone now too. At least they are together again, as my kids tell me. She lived a great life with lots of love and lots of kids.

When the day came to put her to sleep, we knew it was time. She'd had a siezure a few days before, started throwing up 3 days before, and stopped eating all together two days before. We tried to get her to walk, but she kept falling over and her back legs no longer worked. We went to church and Barry came home and spent two wonderful hours laying by her side, talking to her, opening his heart to her. We had dinner, then sat the children down and explained to them what needed to happen. We all cried. Then each child had a picture with her and was able to tell her good-bye. The sweet heart that she was, did her best to sit up for the pictures. It was the most I've seen out of her in days. Barry, Hunter, and I then took her to the vet where we held her and talked to her and loved her as she passed. It was incredibly hard, and yet so very peaceful. Hunter asked later why people can't go that way.

As we buried her in our backyard next to Katie, the twins kept saying, "Daddy, my Heidi!" They didn't understand why we were burying her. Yesterday and today they have asked me several times "Heidi got out?" "My Heidi out, mommy?" How do you tell a toddler about death?
Now, I've had a chance to tell them about heaven and now they say "mommy, heidi heben?"

So as a tribute to her, I kept the kids home from school yesterday and we looked through all our old photographs and found every one we had of Katie and Heidi. We went out to lunch at McDonald's (to brighten any child's spirit, right?) and bought a special album which we placed all our pictures. So at any time, we can remember them. The evening ended great with lots of giggles and belly laughs as the kids saw pictures of their mom and dad from years ago. I'll never forget when my kids asked to see the picture of dad with the triangles behind his ears (his mullet picture from highschool) They could barely get the words out, they were laughing so hard. Or to look at the picutre of dad with his Harry Potter glasses!

Well, I started this post with tears, and now I'm ending it with laughter. I guess that's what a true best friend does. Helps you see the laughter behind the tears. We can't wait to be with you two again. Until then, watch over us and have fun together. Here are the pictures of our last days and moments with her. Everyone loved her, even our newest addition, Stephanie, the kitten.

The Race to Robbie Creek 2009

2009-04-20T08:42:00.000-07:00

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Easter

2009-04-19T19:06:00.000-07:00

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Woodington Farms

2009-03-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

Last Monday we took the kids to meet the Pat and Cindy Woodington. They are the nicest retired couple who we've become friends with just recently. They have a Thoroughbred estate where they breed and race horses. Just a month ago they had two new babies born and I was so excited to show them to my kids! I was amazed how little fear the twins had for these large animals. How interested Hunter was in the day to day aspects of raising horses and living on a farm. He even offered to work for them this summer cleaning stables! Montana just seemed like she was at home in the wide open spaces. But mostly, I was amazed at how my little Lexus took to them. Something in her eyes changed- a new passion- horses. Watching her sit on the fence and talking to them gave me the realization that if I hadn't been there, she probably would have been in the pasture trying to ride them! As a mother, I truly appreciate what country life offers and the peace it brings. We had such a great time and hope it can become a part of our life. (We made on offer to purchase the 14 acre alfalfa field they are selling.) Just look at the scenery- it's beautiful!

2009-03-20T15:39:00.001-07:00

Meet our new "Stephanie"

2009-03-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

I never knew how much joy I would get out of a new baby life in our home! Stephanie came to us as a gift from Barry (who was secretly making arrangements to bring her home when she was only 2 days old!) She's now been with us for 2 weeks and we just LOVE and ADORE her! One of my favorite things to watch her do is arch her back, stand sideways, and hop toward Heidi like she's really tough and saying "you want some of this?" I'm so grateful for a husband who has a tender heart and knows just what to do! We love you dad!

Aren't we pretty?

2009-03-02T19:11:00.000-08:00

The twins decided to put mascara on while I was upstairs! Oh, so pretty....

The Ear Piercing Experience

2009-03-02T18:24:00.000-08:00

My girlfriend Laura and I thought it would be fun to get our girl's ear's pierced together while she was here for a visit. So, off to the mall we went. Of course I was sick to my stomach and thought I was going to pass out while I was holding each twin. Something about piercings that make me queasy....... Anyway- Kaylnn went first and was a champ after the initial shock. Brittany's turn was next. She cried at first and then was fine. Then came Brooke. At first she didn't cry at all. I should have known better- she started screaming and didn't stop. I had to take her out of the store so I wouldn't throw up. I think it was more traumatizing on me than anyone. I'm so glad that is over- now everyone can know who is who. Brooke has gold earings and Brittany has silver. I have to admit, they look pretty darn cute!

Guitar Hero Night

2009-02-16T18:51:00.001-08:00

Did you ever think your dad was soooooooo cool? This is dedicated to Barry- the coolest dad on the block. (He has no idea I am posting these pictures).

After Christmas, Hunter was begging Barry to play Guitar Hero with him. Finally about 9:00 at night, Barry said he needed to "get in the groove" for it. He then spent the next 20 min. in the bathroom. Low and behold- out came ROCK MAN!!!

Special Olympics Torch Run 2009

2009-02-16T13:37:00.000-08:00

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What's Christmas without a decorated tree?

2008-12-08T14:49:00.000-08:00

This year we moved the tree into our front room so we can see the lights of it from the outside. It was Brooke and Brittany's first time to help. (They have been in bed all the years past.) We had a great time and of course the twins screamed for joy when we pulled out all the bright colored balls! I love the time together putting up a tree. Christmas music playing in the background and a fire in the fireplace. What's more magical than that?

2008-12-03T14:10:00.001-08:00

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Paying our tribute

2008-11-29T20:01:00.000-08:00

As I posted earlier, we lost our family cat last week. My parents were kind enough to send flowers, so after Thanksgiving dinner, we went out and put flowers on her grave. It was really sweet. We will miss you Katie!

Thanksgiving Day 2008

2008-11-29T19:59:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving this year was one that will go down in history as one of the great. We stayed home this year and had a great time as a family.

Everyone picked what they wanted to make for dinner. Montana picked deviled eggs.

Her first time, and she loved it!

Looks like dad approves!

Hunter chose to help with the turkey.

He had a blast (and was a little grossed out) cleaning it out! Wonder if he'll do it again-check out that face!

The girl's did crafts while we waited for the turkey to come out of the oven. Lexus talked on the phone to grandma and grandpa in Las Vegas.

Nice creations, girls!

Getting ready to make mashed potatoes-yummy!

Good job, dude!

My first attempt at homemade apple pie. Good thing we ate it fast, it wasn't so pretty....

Has anyone seen the twins!?

This is what the twins were doing while we were making dinner- fingernail polish!

Now, LET'S EAT!

Twilight Weekend

2008-11-29T19:55:00.000-08:00

We had such a great time when Laura came over from Colorado for a visit.! We went to lunch, did a Body Shop party, went to see Twilight, and had breakfast! Good friends like that are one in a million!

Katie- our little friend

2008-11-26T12:58:00.000-08:00

13 years ago this week, Barry and I were young newlyweds coming home from Thanksgiving at the Jardine's with the first addition to our family. Katie. Little did we know how much she would become to mean to us, nor how many wonderful memories she would give us. We fell in love with her huge eyes and big ears. She was my comfort at the end of every day, silently giving me encouragement, my sleeping buddy at night who would calm my fears. She understood me. She never seemed to age, even when she was older. I knew she was getting older and I would tell her daily, "you can't ever die." Nothing is forever in this life. We lost her last week. We were taking care of a family dog, Daisy, who was in need of a new home and we were her "foster" home until we found a more permanent residence. She had been a part of our home for 2 weeks and was adjusting very well. Even to Katie. Unfortunately, last friday, before leaving for Utah, I was running errands. I came home to quickly grab a coat I needed for the trip. The dogs had been outside, but while I was gone Daisy managed to open the back door, got into the house and killed Katie. It was a horrific scene. I thought our home had been broken into at first. Tables were knocked over, rugs flipped, pillows off the couches, heating vents out of the floor. Then I noticed the blood.... There was blood throughout my home; walls in three different rooms, on the couches, floors, bathroom cabinets. And then I found her. Terror frozen on her face. Lying on my bathroom floor, her favorite place to sit while I got ready in the morning. She looked like a dog toy, soaked head to toe with saliva. Words cannot describe the pain I felt as I held her lifeless body and cried. Such a sweet and wonderful friend did not deserve that kind of an end.

Why am I writing this? Partly because I need to. They say it's very theraputic. Partly because I want to. But mostly because this is Thanksgiving, the time to give thanks for all we have. I am grateful to the deepest depths of my soul for a loving Father in Heaven who sends little angels to touch our hearts, even if they are wrapped in little bodies of fur. I am thankful for the joy and pure happiness she brought me for thirteen years. I loved her! I am thankful my children loved her, and the tenderness I saw in my husband with her.

So I want everyone who knows me, to know how much I loved Katie and how she will be missed. Be grateful this Thanksgiving for all you have. I am.

What is life like with twins?

2008-11-25T13:05:00.001-08:00

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Eggs Anyone?

2008-11-15T15:26:00.000-08:00

Does breakfast for dinner ever sound good to you? Yeah, me too.

So the other night I decided to make a breakfast feast. German pancakes, bacon, eggs, toast, the works. It was so yummy, my kids all scarfed it dcown as fast as they could. (Which for my kids is quite unusual.) So there I sat, enjoying the small talk I was having with my three older kids when I heard a noise just on the other side of the counter that sounded like paper ripping. I knew Brooke was over there, and there was nothing on the floor she could destroy. So, I let it go.

A little later, I got up to start on dishes and rounded the corner. And then I knew. Just what eggs sound like as they are being smashed on the kitchen floor- paper ripping!

Yep-Brooke was as happy as could be sitting in the middle of a raw eggs mess. All over the floor and her hands. Thank goodness for my trusted vacuum/dog, Heidi, who loves to clean up after them!

Note to self- when hearing a strange noise that seems out of place- GO CHECK RIGHT AWAY!

Eggs Anyone?

2008-11-15T15:18:00.000-08:00

Double Trouble

2008-11-06T12:13:00.000-08:00

So I thought I would share with you my day yesterday. It all started out fine, Hunter was home from school because he threw up in class. I was finally getting a rhythm on the never ending laundry. It became nap time for the twins. So I put them down (for the first time) and 30 min. goes by. I notice the sound of water running up stair and giggling, so I went to check out what I thought was Hunter and Lexus playing.

NO.

It was Brittany on the counter in the bathroom with Brooke standing next to her. They were trying to clog the drain by stuffing chicken nuggets down the drain while the water was running.

Needless to say, they went back in their cribs-without pacifiers this time. That'll teach them-right?

Nope.

Twenty minutes goes by. I think they've finally fallen asleep. I went upstairs to tell Hunter something, and found clothes strewn all over the hallway outside the twins door. Apparently, they were mad. They got back out of their cribs, went into their closet, and began pulling all their clothes off hangers and throwing them out their door.

Third-times-the -charm......Back to their cribs they go.

I decided to try and get the laundry going again. A little time passed and all the kids came home from school. Anyone who has kids, know that between 4-6:00 p.m. is the "witching hour". All chaos breaks loose. Homework, cub scouts, reading, dinner, hungry kids, tired kids.

So, who do I see coming down the stairs?

Brooke and Brittany- soaked to the bone with water!

They flooded my upstairs! They took Tupperware bowls of water and poured them all over the bathroom, hall, and Montana's bedroom!

What's the point of this story?

It explains why I sped to the store and paid whatever the cost to purchase these:

Our First Broken Nose?

2008-11-03T19:04:00.001-08:00

GOOD NEWS!! It's not broken, or so he thinks (the doctor). After seeing all the blood gushing out of Brittany's nose, I thought for sure we had our first broken nose. This picture was taken after we cleaned her up the first time. Trust me, she looks better in this picture than she did before it. The bleeding just wouldn't stop. I know this is probably going to land me in the running for "worst mom ever" category because I stop to take a picture of my bleeding child! But, some things you have to see to believe!

So how does something like this happen to a sweet little girl, you might ask? Let's just say a certain older sister thought it would be fun for her to hang from a tree branch in the backyard. Mind you, this "tree branch" is several feet off the ground and my older kids have to use a chair to reach it. In the process of teaching her younger sister the art of swinging, a 20lb. two-year old can't hang on like the rest of them. Surprised!? Yeah-me, too. (Not really if you know my kids).

So luckily, I took her to the doctor today and he said he doesn't think it's broken, but we have to "wait for the swelling to go down first to be sure." She could have used some glue on the end of her nose to close the split, but since it had already been 24 hrs. it was holding itself together and no need to re-open it.

And the stories of raising children continue to go forth!...............

2008-11-02T13:04:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Harvest Party!

2008-10-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

Today I got to go to Hunter's 3rd grade class and help with their Fall Harvest Party. I did the Boo Bingo Center. We had Bingo cards and used Candy Corn as our place makers. (We ate a bunch, too). They made slime, played pin the tail on the cat, made eyeballs, and played hot pumpkin. We had such a great time. I can't wait to do more with his class!

2008-10-30T16:36:00.000-07:00

We had such a crazy, fun time carving our pumpkins this year. Usually the twins are in bed, but we thought they could hang out with us this year. Hunter is getting better and better each year and now is carving it by himself. Montana and dad figured out a cool design. Lexus helped the twins. Brooke liked transfering one bowl of pumpkin guts to another bowl. Back and Forth the guts went, sometimes they made it back into a bowl. Other times, it went everywhere. Brittany was happy pushing her baby around the table and including her in the festivities!

Sloppy Joe Pie

2008-10-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

So, I found this really cute receipe idea and thought I'd try it on the kids. It's simply sloppy joe mix, with hamburger. I added some cooked whole wheat and the kids didn't even notice it! I put the ingredients in a pie shell and topped it with another pre-made pie crust. Then I cut out the Jack-o-lantern design and brushed on egg whites that were colored orange. It was such a hit, all the neighborhood kids wanted to eat over! Who knew dinner time could be so much fun?

It's Pumpkin Time!

2008-10-26T19:31:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love the Fall? All the autumn colors, hayrides, pumkin farms, corn mazes, hot cocoa, hot doughnuts........This year we went to Linder Farms Pumpkin Patch to get our pumpkins. It was the twins first time ever to do something like that. We got the biggest kick out of hearing them squeal with delight at everything new. Brooke's pumpkin was about the size of a grapefruit, and the way she was carrying it, you would have tought it weighed 50 lbs. There is nothing like this time of year, the way it brings the family together.

GO BOBCATS!!!

2008-10-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official. We've just completed our first year of Optimist Football and we loved every minute of it!

It's quite the commitment however- practice every night for 1-2 hrs, games on Saturdays. (Barry put hunting on hold-the biggest sacrifice ever!)

Hunter was #44 and started the year playing on defense, but was then moved to offense. He was nicknamed "submarine" because that was his favorite play- coach didn't even teach him that, he just started doing it on his own. Quite impressive I must say.

I wasn't sure how he would handle football, seeing as though he has four sisters and no brothers. But, it was so good to get him out there, hitting, tackling, running, etc. Not to mention all the friends he made. Now he loves to meet up with them and play football in the park nearby. We can't wait for next year.

You can't have football without cheerleaders! Welcome to the Kitten's squad: Montana and Lexus were the best cheerleaders we've ever seen. They started out the year a little "squirmy". (As the coach put it) But by the end of the year they were by far the best on the team. Even teaching the squad a dance of their own, which they performed at half-time in the last game! Like mother, like daughters?

We can't forget about the twins. So what did they do this year? Ran away from their parents as much as possible, making it hard to watch the game at times! Happily, there were some older girls who fell in love with them and wanted to watch them. Imagine that! Mom can't wait until they are old enough to get involved with this program-

Until next year!.........

Password Remembered!

2008-10-20T15:57:00.000-07:00

I finally can update my blog after several months of not remembering my password!!! Leave it up to me to forget! Don't know why, must be the 5 kids needing and wanting my attention all the time. Funny how that works! So, my goal is to update this thing (whenever I get the chance) so we are in the present-not in 2007! Of course that means I will have to go and organize my pictures. Quite a feat in of itself, I must say. But............IT WILL BE DONE!

Girls Las Vegas Weekend

2008-10-18T23:27:00.001-07:00

Girl's Las Vegas Trip

2008-10-18T22:44:00.000-07:00

We had such a blast in Vegas! It's been years since this side of my family has been together. What a time we had getting to know eachother better! Of course we saw the sites and Mama Mia!

Montana's Locks of Love

2008-03-29T15:41:00.000-07:00

We went to the "Electric Chair" for her first hair cut, given by Amber Coates. It was quite a shock to have her hair cut! She's had long hair ever since she was born!
Here we go!!!! Chop, Chop,Chop. She was a little nervous, and so was mom.
And there it is! All gone. But for a good reason, some one will greatly appreciate the donation of this beautiful blonde hair. Now when we see a cancer victim, we are so proud that we helped them feel a little better.
Look how cute and sassy she is! What a doll! We are so glad to have her!

Natalie's Surprise 33rd birthday trip to Seattle

2008-02-06T10:35:00.000-08:00

My sweet husband planned a surpirse trip to seattle for my birthday. I was so surprised when we went to the airport with bags packed and checked in. I was a great three day get away. We went to Pike Place Market, rode to the top of the Space Needle, went to a Pink Floyd lazer show, and ate breakfast in bed! I am a lucky girl and grateful to have such a wonderful guy I get to experience life with.

Montana's Tonsilectomy

2008-01-14T12:05:00.000-08:00

Montana's Day for furgery was a good experience. The waiting room had a fish tank with cool fish.

Here the nurse is checking her breathing.
Then we went into the back where she got to pretend to be a doctor. Her patient was a cute cabbage patch doll.
Montana had her oxygen levels checked just before going into the pre-op room.
Here she is in the pre-op room with her cool hospital p.j.'s. She was a little nervous about her underware showing from the back!

Next, the nurse came in to check on her. Then, she got to pick out what scent she wanted in her oxygen mask.
She chose bananna!

Off she goes to surgery!

In the recovery room, she was very brave! The doctor said she held her own mask in the OR until she fell asleep! The orange popsicle she had right after surgery helped a lot, and gave her an orange smile!

Then, she got to ride to the car in a wheelchair. She was pretty excited about that!

It was a long day, and we were tired when it was all over. Mom and Montana snuggled together after it was all over!

New Year's Eve

2008-01-08T15:20:00.001-08:00

New Year's Eve was a blast! We are starting a tradition of doing a pinata for the kids. After that everyone got sprayed with silly string! Mom got it the worst! We were lucky to have Uncle Brian, Barry's brother, with us that weekend. We played "Kid's Charrades" and had way too much food. Can't wait for next year at the cabin!!!

Daddy and his lovely silly string and Uncle Brian playing dress up with Lexi.

Christmas 2007

2008-01-08T14:19:00.000-08:00

Hunter got an Air Hog from Santa. It's the coolest thing, he flies it around the house with a remote. He was so excited when Barry started playing with it and said to me "Mom, don't you just love it-Dad's playing with toys now!"
Brittany got a puppy from Santa that talks to her. And one can't forget the phone- I must for every 19 months old girl.
Brooke was off pushing her new baby in her new stroller before you could say "GO!" We had a great Christmas morning, even if it did start at 2:30 a.m.!!!!
All Lexus wanted from Santa was a Barbie with a "beautiful dress". I think Santa did a pretty good job with this one.
Montana got a new bike from Santa and a jump rope. She loves to be active and can't wait for the snow to melt so she can ride her bike to school.

Thanksgiving 2007

2008-01-08T09:43:00.000-08:00

Some of the Jardine cousins that came: Jaden, Jessica, Chase, Ava, Hunter, Montana, Lexus, Brooke, Brittany, Weston, and Grayson. It's always a good time when the cousins are here!
Eating our big Thanksgiving meal at the table
The big boys at the counter: Hunter, Jaden, Weston
Ava and Lexus loved trying to see how many black olives they could put on their fingers. Problem was, they kept disappearing into thier mouths!
Bruce and April enjoying a hearty plate of gobble,gobble food

Disneyland 2007

2008-01-07T17:06:00.001-08:00

Our first trip to Disneyland! Grandma Jardine came and stayed with the twins so just the big kids could go. It was a nice break for all of us. It's Halloween time- who wouldn't love a candy corn that size?!
Our very first ride- Alice In Wonderland
Goofy in his fall outfit with the kids
We ate dinner at Goofy's Kitchen the first night we were there. It was so much fun. I think that topped the list of my favorite thing we did!
Getting ready to see "Honey I Shrunk the Audience." Hunter just came off his first time riding Space Mountain and obviously was tramatized by it for awhile.