Petty Family

A Very Thankful Thanksgiving!

2011-12-01T12:42:00.000-08:00

We had everyone at our house for thanksgiving. It was such a fun time the cousins always love getting together.

Emma and Klaire

Kaelee, Eylan, and Matt cutting the pie!

Nate combed his own hair. This is his favorite way he thinks it looks really cool.

My sister Janice and her family!

My brother Eric and his wife Brandi and Their cute little guy Aiden.

Dad Dilworth

Ansley spent every moment on the piano!

My brother Tyler and Dharma

Sam, Kathi and Klaire

Miken, Philip, Kathi, John, and Dave

After Dinner entertainment!

Clogging!

2011-02-20T15:08:00.000-08:00

Last night Emma and Ansley had a clogging performance to kickoff the competition season they did great! And both were surprised that they were not even that scared! They also looked adorable!

Candy Cane Heart Suckers Way Cute!

2011-01-25T11:37:00.000-08:00

We found this idea in family fun! It was way easy and fun! The only problem is finding candy canes. Nate loved this he said it was so yummy and cute!

A Visit To Mrs. Clause

2010-12-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

We took the Preschool to visit Mrs. Clause it was a fun day and Nate loved it!

Nate with his good friend Brody!

Looking through all the windows at Christmas Village.

Nate could not wait for the bag of candy Mrs. Clause gives you at the end, but he really did not want to sit on her lap. He was much relived to realize he could just stand by her.

Helping Family = Happy Momma!

2010-12-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

A big thank you to my wonderful husband, who works so hard and always knows when I need a little more help at home!

Fall Photos!

2010-11-24T05:31:00.000-08:00

Thanks Melissa, they are so cute! I just love these kidos!

Growing Up!

2010-11-21T05:03:00.000-08:00

I found Nate blowing his own nose this morning. I don't know why this was such a big deal for me. I guess it was just another sign that Nate is growing up, a little faster then I am ready for.

Ansley's Feast!

2010-11-20T06:35:00.000-08:00

I got to help in Ansley's class room the other day for her Thanksgiving Feast! She loved it! It is so fun to see her doing so well in school, she has just blossomed over the last few months. The other day she wanted me to read her a book, I told her I thought she could read it. She started sounding out words and was so excited she ended up reading 10 books that day. She told me she thought she was the smartest kid in her class. It was priceless!

Fall

2010-10-05T13:32:00.001-07:00

Sunday we went for a walk up around snow basin. The girls had a great time collecting leaves. Nate and Tim watched for deer, Matt tracked rabbits. I enjoyed the fresh air and peace the mountains and my family bring me. On the way home Nate was still enjoying the scenery when he said "Mom, Dad look a take at that." We laughed and laughed he is such a funny kid.

Nine!

2010-09-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

Nine years ago today I faced the scariest moment in my life up to that point. My water broke in the middle of the night. We had just moved to Oregon, far away from family, and a little 2 year old we could not take to the hospital. At this moment we made the best friends ever, who opened their door in the middle of the night and took our little guy. We ended up having the most beautiful baby, who has blessed our lives immensely. Emma is good at everything she does. She is determined to be the best and has been since she could talk (which was very early). Happy Birthday Beautiful Emma.

So Cute!!!!

2010-09-16T20:36:00.000-07:00

Summers Over!

2010-08-25T21:32:00.001-07:00

Matt and Emma started school today. They were so excited to go, and came home with big smiles. I sure hope they have a great year! Ansley start next week but she had to have her picture taken. I hope I can get all 3 ready and out the door on time.

Kindergarten!

3rd Grade I can't believe it!

Funny story about Matt. Today I pulled out his old lunch box (Starwars) He gave it a funny look. I could tell Diary of a Wimpy Kid was running through his head. I said lets get you a new lunch box, He thought that was a good idea. I can't believe I have a 6th grader.

Our Bus Stop!

Don't they look great!

Happy Birthday Sweet Ansley

2010-08-25T07:15:00.000-07:00

Ansley was born August 24 in Corvallis Oregon. She was a beautiful healthy baby. We have had so much fun with her these last 6 years!

This year Ansley wanted a Spa Birthday Party. So last Saturday Emma, Aunt Billie, Aunt Angie and I turned our house into a spa for 13 little girls. It was a super fun birthday party and Ansley loved it! Here are a few pictures from the party.

Cousin Link got into the mood of things. and decided to soak everything!

The foot soak was a hit. They got to soak their feet and then Angie did a scrub and a lotion treatment.

Cake and Ice Cream after the spa!

Jerzi Girl with her chocolate mask. Aunt Billie did the facials. All but one girl wanted to do it!

Gracie loved the facials!

Satin Hands and Entertainment by Emma!

Ansley aah what a fun party!

Happy Birthday to my Beautiful, Wonderful, Happy, Cute, and Fun Little 6 year old!

Another Post By Matt!

2010-08-10T09:53:00.000-07:00

Best Days in Randolf

Livy !!!!!!!!

Wake up Nate!!!!

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!

EWE!!!!!!!!!!!

AIM MISS FIRE!!!!!!!!!!!!

careful people

No Nate!!!!
!!!!!

Good job me

Look at that!!!!!

Gross Nate!!!!!!!!!!!

Trek 2010

2010-08-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

Tim and I had the opportunity to go on trek with our stake. What a neat experience we had. I can't even begin to tell you how much we gained from it. They placed the youth into families and we were ask to be the Ma and Pa for one of these families. There were 18 groups is all. We were so amazed by the youth of our stake. The kids had to come up with a family name or flag to represent our family. Our youth chose Tim Petty and the Heart Trekkers, funny huh! We were surprised they even knew who Tom Petty and the Heart breakers were. Here are a few pictures.

Funnest Picture Ever!

2010-06-24T10:39:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of a picture the original is even funnier but if you can't laugh at your self who can you laugh at! I just thought this was too good to keep to myself! I hope you all enjoy a good chuckle!

All about Matt!

2010-06-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

Matt is staying at his grandparents in vernal this week, and we are all missing him like crazy. He turned 11 last week so I thought I would post 11 things we love about Matt!

1: He loves to go to Vernal and canoe and hang out with Grandpa! (He is a lot like his grandpa Dilworth)

2: Nate says he loves to play with Matt! He is always good with Nate and they are best buds.

3: He loves being outdoors and camping with family.

4: He can eat like a horse and he loves to cook!

5: He loves to swim and hang out with his cousins.

6: Emma loves that she has a big brother to play with. (and run races)

7: He is always happy and being silly!

8: He is kind and friendly to everyone. He is really good with babies.

9: He usually does what is ask of him, and is a hard worker. (Helping Dad in the garden)

10: Ansley loves that he plays with her. And gets her food when she is hungry.

11: Matt is creative, kind, athletic, friendly, spiritual, tenderhearted, and fun.

We hope he knows how much we love him and miss him. He has made these past 11 years so fun for Tim and I.

DisneyLand!

2010-06-12T11:37:00.000-07:00

This is Matt I have taken over this blog Ha Ha Ha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This was my favorite part

Crazy Emma

Ansley and Tink

Cool Nate

My 3 year old!

2010-05-24T20:13:00.000-07:00

Oh My! I can't believe I am doing this. Yes a post after how many months!

Nate is turning 3 tomorrow and I can't believe how fast these last 3 years have gone. So I thought I better do a tribute to Nate the most amazing 3 year old ever. (In my eyes anyway!) Nate is such a funny kid and is always doing something funny or amazing. The other day he came out in his underwear singing like a rock star. "I can't get dressed....this is serious." Yes the Disney Channel has been on too much lately. I decided to give Nate a little birthday party we invited 10 little boys to come. I think I am a little crazy but it was so fun to see how excited the boys were to get an invitation. And Nate running like a mad man yelling "Wade Wade" as he waved his invitation in the air. If I survive I will post pictures tomorrow. This is a big birthday shout out to the most fun loving little guy, who makes me so happy!

This is what I am doing today!

2009-11-25T05:57:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Sue Bybee who gave me this great idea. I hope it turns out!

To properly brine a turkey you need to start the night before you plan to cook. You will need at least 10 to 12 hours (plan on 1 hour per pound of turkey), a container large enough to hold your turkey and enough brine to cover it. You'll also need salt, water, sugar, seasonings, and enough room to refrigerate it. A large stainless steel stock pot or even a 5 gallon clean plastic bucket would make excellent containers. Both Reynolds (Oven Roasting Bag for Turkeys) and Ziploc (XL Storage Bag) make very large food safe sealable bags that are great for brining. Turkey has to be thawed* 1 gallon Water (1 cup of table salt in 1 gallon of water)* 1 cup sugar (brown or white to your taste)* 1 cup salt * 1 orange fresh squeezed* 2 limes fresh squeezed* 1 lemon fresh squeezed* 3 sage leaves* 1 bunch thyme leaves or lemon thyme if you can find itBrined meats tend to cook faster than unbrined meat. The length of time meat soaks in a flavor brine depends on the type of meat and its size, as well as the amount of salt used in the brine — the saltier the brine mixture, the shorter the soaking time. Whole Chicken – 3 to 8 hours Chicken Pieces – 1 to 2 hours Whole Turkey – 12 hours to 2 days Turkey Breast – 4 to 8 hours Pork Chops – 2 to 6 hours Pork Tenderloin – 2 to 8 hours Whole Pork Loin – 1 to 3 days It is possible to end up with meat that’s too salty for your taste, so you may want to hold back on the brine’s time to to low end of the time ranges – this way you can see how it turns out. You can always brine longer next time, but there’s no way to remove the effect on meat that’s been brined too long.Place the turkey in a container and pour in enough brine to completely cover the turkey with an inch or two to spare. You do not want any part of the turkey above the surface of the brine. Now you put the whole thing in the refrigerator. If you are like me, making enough room in the fridge is the hardest part of this project. The turkey should sit in the brine for about 1 hour per pound of turkey. Brining too long is much worse than not brining enough so watch the time. Don't have room in the refrigerator? Try a cooler. A cooler big enough to hold your turkey makes a good container for your turkey and brine. The cooler will help keep it cool and allow you to brine your turkey without taking up precious refrigerator space. If the weather is cool, but not freezing you can put the whole thing outside until you need the turkey. If the weather is warm fill a a zip top bag with ice. Place this in the cooler with the turkey and brine and it will hold down the temperature during the brining process.When you are ready to start cooking your turkey, remove it from the brine and rinse it off thoroughly in the sink with cold water until all traces of salt are off the surface inside and out. Safely discard the brine and cook your turkey as normal. You will notice the second you start to carve your turkey that the brining has helped it retain moisture. The first bite will sell you on brining turkeys forever, and after you've tried this you will want to brine all your poultry.

Our Mighty Hunter!

2009-11-18T11:41:00.000-08:00

This is one to remember!

A few weeks ago Tim was talking about taking Matt rabbit hunting and making us all try rabbit meat. Well needless to say Emma was not excited about eating a cute cuddly bunny, so she vowed to become a vegetarian. Not only was she never going to eat a bunny she decided to dress up as one. She made ears and a tail from pipe cleaner, and convinced her sister to do the same. A few minutes later the bunnies come hopping out of their room giggling and laughing and right behind them was Nate gun in tote. "I shoot the bunnies, I shoot the bunnies." Tim and I laughed so hard. He is definitely all boy! So if your coming to our house for thanksgiving beware that turkey just might be a cute cuddly bunny!

Soldier, Pirate, Fairy, and Cowboy Oh My!

2009-11-13T15:04:00.000-08:00

Football!

2009-10-18T21:53:00.000-07:00

Well I am on a roll! 3 post in one night! I thought I better post some pictures of Matt's football before I go to bed who knows when I'll get back to this! Our team had a sports photographer come and take some pictures during a game, here are a few pictures Matt liked!

Emma's Baptism

2009-10-18T21:39:00.000-07:00

We had such a great day! She was so happy and loved all the attention. Thanks to all who came and supported her. Here are a few of my favorite pictures from that day!

Way overdue update!

2009-10-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

Here the newest pictures of the kids. They are all getting so big, I can't believe how fast they grow up!

OK I know I have been out of the blogging world forever! Time to redeem myself that is if I have any followers left! So much has been going on! We had a super great summer and then school started. I am now teaching preschool with a friend and loving it! It has been so much fun. We have a darling class and I love being with the kids. I just have not adjusted to not having as much free time. Here is a quick recap of the last few months. Summer brought swimming lessons, camping, playing, gardening and relaxing. We finished baseball, Matt played pitcher and Emma out ran all the boys on her team! August, Ansley turned 5 Emma started competition tumbling. She will be competing with a round off and 4 back handsprings. She has her tuck but just need to work on getting it higher. Matt played tackle football and oh my we had a great time. He loved it and worked really hard to stay caught up in school. They had practice Tuesday through Friday and games on Saturday. We were all ready for a break when he finished. We really enjoyed the season though. Ansley started clogging and it is so dang cute, we are all loving watching her. September Emma and Tim had birthdays. Emma turned 8 and was baptized a week ago. We had such a nice day. Nathan has been such a trooper through all our craziness. He thinks he is as big as the rest of them. He plays like he goes to football and school everyday! He loves his Dad and his brother so much! Nate does not leave his Dad's side on the weekend. Well that is about it. We are all healthy and everything is going well. We are just busy busy busy but I guess that is life. And I think we have a really good one!

First Day of School!

2009-08-27T08:14:00.000-07:00

We already miss them!

Happy Birthday To My Blue Eyed Baby!

2009-08-25T08:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my beautiful bald baby is now 5! Ansley has been such a fun part of our family. She makes us laugh daily and is such a fun loving little girl. Here are some of my favorite pictures. I have way more but can't seem to find them. These are all around a year to 18 months the height of her baldness!

Ansley with Grandma Sally

Ansley loved the water!

This is one of my favorite pictures of the girls together! They have been such good sisters!

The rest of the pictures are from Ansley's Tea Party yesterday! The kid all had a great time. It is so fun to see them play and love their friend.

Jerzi and Russle boys! Look how cute Jerzi is dressed!

Ansley and cute Paige!

The rest of the gang!

I was so grateful for the tent it drizzled on us the whole time but the kids loved the fancy lunch and the lemonade!

Ansley is my only Blue Eyed Baby! And I love her sooo much! Happy Birthday to her!

Independence Day

2009-07-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

This 4th of July we decided to declare independence from the crowds and craziness. We headed out to Vernal and had a great time. Saturday we hiked the Jones Hole Trail down to the waterfall. The kids got to see the pictographs and enjoyed the river and the fish hatchery. I loved being away from all the crowds and sharing with my kids one of my childhood favorites. Later that night we went to the park and watched the fireworks, Here are a few pictures my dad took! You have to know my Dad to understand these night ones!

My sister and her kids I think!

Me taking in the madness!

Sparkler Madness!

The show!

Nate and Ansley playing up above the falls.

The kids enjoying the cold water!

Nathan would gather rocks and sticks all along the trail to throw in the river ever chance he got.

Emma of course was the first to stick her head under the falls.

She said is hurt her head, I don't know if it was the amount of water or how cold it was!

Thanks Mom and Dad for the great day!

Terrible Two's I Don't Think So!

2009-05-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Late Birthday Nathan! I can't believe my baby is two! What a fun adventure the last 2 years have been. Nathan makes us laugh daily and is so full of personality. He loves so many things a few of his newest passions are baseball, play fighting with his brother Matt, and tumbling with Emma and Ansley. He thinks he is big enough to do anything he wants, and small enough to still have his blanket and pacifier (OK I know that is embarrassing, I need to break that habit). Nate loves to be outside, If he could he would spend every waking moment out side with his animals. He is our little cowboy for sure! I really do love this age and cherish all my memories from the last two! Here are a few pictures of my baby!
Nathan found this gun and hat early in the morning, unwrapped it himself, and wore it all day!

Nathan was really upset about me putting the horse in the cake. But I got away with it in the end!

This was about a year ago what a cute smile!

This winter Nate lived in this old Stockton Jazz Jersey he borrowed from his cousin Garrett. He wore it non stop for about two weeks!

Last summer Nathan lived in the mud. I already know it will be similar this summer. (Except we have a little less mud)
It's funny how when it is your baby you can still use that toothbrush!

The cutest kid ever!

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

Happy day to all the wonderful mothers in my life. I have been so blessed to have such great examples of motherhood. First to my dear mother who has taught me so many things; patience, unconditional love, and hard work. Mom I love you! To my grandmothers who have been faithful and loving wifes and mothers, who would do anything for me. To my wonderful mother-in-law, who raised a wonderful son and is an example in so many ways. To all my sisters, sister-in-laws, cousins and friends who set an example daily of great mothers. I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Seven Minute Silence

2009-05-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

They say every 7 minutes there will be a pause in a conversation. Well I guess that rings true with blogs. I have hit a pause. There is not much going on, or way to much going on to blog. The latter is more true. But stay tuned Tim and I leave for Virgina in a few days, so I am sure I will have a lot to talk about when we return.

Our Day At the Zoo!

2009-04-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Easter Sunday Tradition

2009-04-25T19:56:00.001-07:00

It is a tradition for Tim's family to have a picnic at the pond on Easter. They have been doing it for over 50 years. It is a really big family reunion. They always have an Easter egg hunt right at 12:00. This year our church started at 1:00. We debated about what to do but decided if we went in our church clothes we could make it back for church. I lectured and lectured about staying clean. I made them repeat "We are going to a very dirty place and we are wearing our very best clothes. I promise to do my very best and stay clean." All in all they did a great job, and we had a fun time visiting with family and were able to enjoyed our church services as well.

Emma and Ansley in their cute dresses, sporting the new shades the Easter bunny gave them.

Nate and Tim looking for eggs!

I thought this would make a cute picture. Nate is sitting on a tire swing that looks like a horse. I wish I could take better pictures and learn how to make them all look at me and smile. I also would like to figure out lighting ahh maybe someday!

Easter Eggs!

2009-04-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

Okay I know I am a little late I still have to post all our Easter/spring break fun, but my camera is in Tim's car, and I keep forgetting to get it out. Plus I am potty training Nate, and so our days have been spent in the bathroom. We had a great weekend though and I promise I will get around to posting all the pictures. I had to laugh while we were coloring Easter eggs, it sure showed all my kids personalities. Matt took a break from playing long enough to see how many eggs he could color fast and furious. Emma could have colored for hours then she proceeded to organize them in the order she colored them. She wanted hers separated and wanted to keep them in her room. Ansley wanted to color them all pink and purple and wanted stickers all over them. Nate did one and that was great! It was fun to create a memory with the kids.

Easter Treats

2009-04-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

Today I was feeling domestic so I decided to attempt to make homemade marshmallow peeps, As found at marthastewart.com. Well this is what they should look like.

Cute Huh! Well after a series of unfortunate events this is what we ended up with...

Needless to say, I laughed my head off, and the kids just enjoyed the chocolate I was going to cover them in. Good luck to all of you, I sure hope your domestic endeavors end better them mine did today.

Sneak Peak!

2009-04-05T07:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took the girls shopping to pick out Easter dresses. This is the first year I let them choose. They had so much fun trying on all the different dresses. I was really glad they wanted to match. I know these years are numbered. I also bought the boys matching outfits, but neither of them would try them on for a photo. I guess I will have to wait for Easter!

Happy Birthday Gretchen!

2009-03-31T13:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday shout out to a good friend! We hope you have the best 9th birthday.

A few things we love about Gretchen:

Loves horses as much as Tim and Nate!

Can keep up with Matt and Hunter and was always willing to play what they wanted!

Loves to play pet shop with the girls.

Never too girly just girly enough!

So cute and such a great example of a nice obedient person!

Hope you have the best day!

Banner Fun

2009-03-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

Win a Cute Birthday Banner Click here to enter! Good Luck!

5K for Your School!

2009-03-29T14:16:00.000-07:00

Annie, Emma,Matt being a goofball, and Gabe!

Matt and Emma ran their 2nd annual 5K to support Weber county schools. This year was better then last and I was so proud of both of them. Emma ran with her friend Annie and I. Well we ran/walked but by the end she still had a ton of energy. Matt ran and then would stop to take a break, but in his mind he ran the entire way. He has definitely caught the running bug and was found running the neighborhood all day after the race. He wants to start training for the kidk in South Weber this summer.

Thanks Jamie for the cute pictures!

Princess Drama

2009-03-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

Thoughts from Ansley
"Mom I just don't understand this thing, If I am a Princess how come I don't live in a Castle?"

Nate Kissed a Horse!

2009-03-21T12:31:00.000-07:00

Seriously! Nugget came up and was nudging Nate, Emma said look Nuggets trying to kiss you, and Nate leaned over and kissed him right on the nose! Soooo cute! I love this kid!

I'm a Fan!

2009-03-21T11:49:00.001-07:00

This is Matt's 5th year of basketball. Each year gets funner and funner to watch. He is so amazing, such a good point guard. I have never seen anyone his age take the ball down the court with so much control and confidence. He has amazing ball handling skills. So many times after the game a parent would come up and comment to me how good he was. Today was their last play off game and they lost. (poor reffing, of course) But I was so proud of them. They really played well together. It was so much fun to watch. We are now gearing up for baseball, maybe golf, and of course, b-ball camps. So bring on the new season of sports!

OK I just realized I am kind of bragging but what do you expect, I am his mom and probably his biggest fan. (Dad is a close second)

Check out those Rec Specs! Doesn't he look great!
Matt's Team, Tim was the Coach!

Matt for 2! (Look at that form, I guess all those years checking out his form has paid off)

Matt taking the ball around and into the basket!

She Finally Did it!

2009-03-19T20:39:00.001-07:00

At 7 and 1/2 Emma finally lost her first tooth!!! It took so long to fall out that her other tooth had already grown in. But still a big step in a little life.

(Sorry Heidi her Uncle got to her first.)

Consumer Report!

2009-03-17T13:49:00.001-07:00

SPANX 22$ nylons run just as easy as 4$ Hanes.

Saturday I bought a pair of much talked about Spanx nylons, in preparation for the Opera. I did think they were really comfortable but as soon as I got to my seat they ran and I had to deal with a huge run down the front of my leg the rest of the night. I just e-mailed the company with my complaint. (Something I never do) but I feel really strong about the fact that a 22$ pair of nylons should last at least one night. I hope to hear back from them and I will let you know their response. But until then I am sticking with 4$ nylons.

The Marriage of Figaro

2009-03-15T09:09:00.000-07:00

Last night Tim and I went to the Opera! The night started out with great company. We drove to Salt Lake with our friends Dean and Jamie and Dane and Tracy, then to dinner at the Market Street Grill. The best Salmon I have had since we moved from Oregon. Wild Salmon, with potatoes and vegetables on the side. Followed by the best ice cream I have ever tasted. Then on to the opera. After a few wardrobe mishaps that gave us the giggles, we sat down and waited for the show. This was our first experience with the opera, and the verdict was... we LOVED it. I could have stayed all night listening to the beautiful music of Mozart. The singing was amazing, I could not believe how strong their voices were. The story was funny. It kept you laughing and on the edge of your seat the entire last act. All in all a wonderful night! A big thanks to Dean and Jamie who talked us into going!

For and added bonus Emma caught the bug and has been filling our home with her own aria compositions ever since. Fun!!

March

2009-03-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday I was having a really hard time finding something to wear. After yelling and grumbling and trying on 10 different outfits, Tim asked me what was wrong. I replied It's March. I realized then that March is not my favorite month. I am realizing now that I have been too negative about it. Today I am trying to find the bright side of March, here are a few of my finds.

Cup Cakes, they can always brighten a dreary windy day! Check out Family Fun for a really cute idea!

This is pretty but I am sure I would never take the time to make it. We will just wear a green shirt or I will cut out a shamrock from construction paper and call it good. But if I were a Martha Stewart Mom, maybe just maybe.

This is one I am going to try. Tim and I actually do love corned beef and cabbage. I have already printed the recipe and know Sniders has corned beef on sale this week. I think everyone should try it!

IF I COULD TURN BACK TIME!

2009-03-09T07:41:00.000-07:00

I know I can't so I am enjoying the now! And it is just as fun (In a different way).

Signs of Spring!

2009-03-03T12:29:00.000-08:00

The snow is melting and tulips starting to pop up around the yard I was so excited, until I saw the backyard...

It was a very bad idea to let the dog run free in the backyard all winter.

Anyone want a dog?

Nate did not seem to mind the mess he just mowed through it all. I am throwing away his shoes!

2009-03-02T15:01:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox recipe

Last Chance!

2009-02-27T07:35:00.000-08:00

I can't believe February is almost over and once again I did not do my visiting teaching, arg! Can you get fired from church? It is also my last chance during the month of Love, to post pictures of those I most cherish! So happy last days of February to all of you, and now lets bring on spring, PLEASE!!!

Tim and the Girls!

Tim and the boys!

My little goofball Nate!

Ansley Brookey Petty Princess (She still thinks that is her real name)

Emma This face really explains everything!

Matt. I really can't believe this kid has not broke a bone yet.

I Heart Him!

Age Two Or So

2009-02-23T11:20:00.000-08:00

Tim and I have been organizing our photos and I just found pictures of Matt When he was about Nate's age I thought it would be funny to compare all the kids at this age and see who looked like who. If you ask me they all look like each other and then again they each have their own look. What do you think?

Matt age 18 to 2 years old

Emma around 2 The Head band is bending her ears down, but I like this picture because it reminds me of her fascination with ears!

Anlsey 2 years old and finally a little hair!

Nate the Great 20 months

Spring Giveaway

2009-02-17T07:16:00.000-08:00

Jamie is doing another fun giveaway Just go to her site here and make a comment and this cute ring could be yours. I hope I win but I would be just as happy if one of my friends got it. Happy Hope of Spring!

Spring Fever!

2009-02-16T12:53:00.000-08:00

Now that Valentines Day is over I am starting to feel the dead days of winter ahead. I am really ready for spring, I am even excited to weed my garden! I hope to see some sign of Spring soon!

Heart Fish and Sucker Flowers

2009-02-12T21:43:00.000-08:00

This year we decided to make our Valentines instead of buy them. We had fun making them, and I think they turned out cute. Emma wanted to do flowers so we figured out a way to put the treat inside. Matt stuck with his all time favorite heart fish. He really wanted Swedish fish or gummy worms to go along with, but for lack of time, we taped on a Reese's peanut butter cup and called it good.

CTR

2009-02-10T08:06:00.000-08:00

This weekend we went to Idaho for a baptism. After we went to Tim's sisters for lunch. Ansley was fighting with her cousin Ben over a stick horse. Tim walked into the room and Ansley was telling Ben something, and had her middle finger in Ben's face. Tim went to her and asked her why she was doing that. She said Dad CTR choose the right, pointing to her ring that was on her middle finger. We all had a good laugh about that one. So lesson learned, when given a CTR ring teach children to choose the right FINGER!!!

Aging!

2009-02-05T15:17:00.001-08:00

Why does age have to define us so much, or does it? Why does 36 seem so much older then 35? Why do we want to be young? I remember when I was a teenager I never wanted anyone to tell me I looked like my mom! Now I would give any thing for that compliment! I don't think I look like my mom, but lately I have noticed my hand looking more and more like what I remember as a child hers looking like. Today (My Birthday) I am realizing that birthdays are a reminder to cherish every moment and enjoy everyday! It is a time to realize how great your friends and family are and how fun it is to hear from them! It is also a day for you to ponder on what a great life you have had so far and look forward to the years ahead. At 20 I had no idea what my life would be like in the future. Now I have a pretty good picture of what I can expect and realize that I can't predict anything yet somehow I know it is going to be wonderful! Thanks to everyone for the Birthday Wishes and I hope your Birthdays are full of bliss also! One Last thing I have decided that some may call them crows feet, but they will always be laugh lines to me, and I hope to always have plenty of them!

More pictures of Cheyenne

2009-02-03T22:23:00.000-08:00

Cheyenne

2009-01-29T10:05:00.000-08:00

We are excited for our new horse Cheyenne. We think she is going to be a great horse for the kids to ride this spring.

Sorry this is not the best picture but at least you all can share in our excitement.

Scotcharoos!

2009-01-26T19:34:00.001-08:00

Thanks Cami for introducing us to scotcharoos we love them!

To Eat or Not to Eat

2009-01-22T07:44:00.000-08:00

What do you do with a child who refuses to eat school lunch and now is sick of sandwiches. I need some fun sack lunch ideas. I have been on line all morning trying to come up with ideas. To tell you the truth, Emma is not going to eat wheat bread with peanut butter and cranberries with a glass of soy milk on the side. So I am asking for help I just want her to eat, at this point I don't even care if it is not that healthy. Well OK I am not going to send her a candy bar everyday. But you know what I mean. Any Ideas?

Opera Dress Survey

2009-01-16T15:48:00.000-08:00

I was reminded today that we are going to the opera in March. I am so excited. Also I just realized I have to have a new dress right? So what do you think are these options fancy enough for the opera? Which one would you choose? These cute dresses are from Coldwater Creek

Sisters!

2009-01-12T08:17:00.000-08:00

I hear this conversation frequently. "But Emma remember what it says on our wall Sisters make the best friends." Emma: OK Ansley then stop hitting me!" But we do seem to capture the good moments! Here are a few pictures of the girls in no particular order.

Fall 2008

Oregon Coast 2005

Oregon Spring 2005

winter 2004

I think this would have been in our Apartment in South weber in 2006

We love Chocolate!

Summer 2008 Trip to Idaho with the Hales.

Two Years Ago

2009-01-10T14:18:00.000-08:00

I can't believe we have been in our house for 2 years now. I just found these picture of Tim digging the foundation and pouring the walls for our home. I love this man and I am so grateful he is such a hard worker.

Letters

2009-01-07T08:23:00.000-08:00

One of my New Years resolutions is to help Ansley learn to read. Or at least learn her letters better. She is so smart but would rather play like she could read instead of actually learn how to. So Yesterday we worked on the letter A She made the letter out of spaghetti noodles and we read a book, she found all the A on every page. Today she wants to practice the letter S. I just found this cute site with little books and activity pages for each letter. This resolution might be easier then I thought. http://www.first-school.ws/theme/alphabet.htm

Ringing in the New Year

2009-01-05T12:03:00.000-08:00

We had a great new years with the Laytons. It was fun to be with them and let the cousins play. Well I guess it is time to start all those new year resolutions. I decided to wait until the kids went back to school, they are back so I can't put it off any longer. Good luck to all of you and your goals. I usually do really well for a week. This year I am resolving to make it a month! Any way Happy 2009! (Ah can you believe it)

Cross Stitch

2008-12-30T09:57:00.000-08:00

E: spent the day with Grandma yesterday and learned how to cross stitch. This is what she made for me. I love the little card she made. I am so grateful for Grandparents and the role they play in my kids lives.

Sledding Fun

2008-12-29T07:35:00.001-08:00

We are so lucky to live only 5 minutes from a place we can do so many outdoor activities, including sledding. We went sledding on Friday and had so much fun we invited friends and headed back up on Saturday. Here are a few pictures of the kids.

We borrowed a cousins snowmobile to take the little kids down to Grandmas.

The girls sure love their cousin Klaire

M: Before

And M: after

E: loved the snow so much, we even caught her trying to do cartwheels up the hill.

The little kids loved going down the little hills.

On Saturday N: was a trooper he stayed out for 3 hours. OK after 3 hours it took us another hour to get him to stop crying. But it was still fun.

Yeah New Baby

2008-12-28T17:34:00.000-08:00

Congratulation to Dusty and Angie. Little Link was born on December 14th. We are having so much fun with him.

A Very Merry Christmas

2008-12-27T19:50:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Christmas has come and gone. Time seems to pass faster and faster every year. We had a wonderful Christmas and felt blessed to be able to spend so much time together. Christmas Eve festivities included making cookies for Santa and singing Christmas carols with Grandma and Grandpa. We wrapped up the night by reading the Christmas story as the kids used the playmobile nativity pieces to act out the parts. I ate a ton of yummy treat friends brought by. (Now I know what my new years resolution will be).
On Christmas morning we enjoyed watching the kids open presents and enjoyed their excitement with each new thing. M: Loved his DS game and football cards the best. E: loved her American Girl (Which Tim thinks was a total waste, but I loved) A: loved her play food and served us pizza and cookies all day. N: loved everything but the basketball was his favorite. Later that day family came for breakfast and a fun game of Clue. We then watched a few new movies and spent the rest of the day being totally lazy. Friday and Saturday we went sledding and that will be a whole new post. We hope you all had a great Christmas too!

M: having so much fun Christmas morning

E: and all her presents
A: and her play cookies
N: and his b ball
Yummy treats from Jamie!
Singing Christmas Carols with Grandma
Making cookies for Santa

Where is the Horse?

2008-12-19T07:50:00.000-08:00

Tim brought home his old saddle to fix. Nate played on it all night then all of a sudden he realized there was no horse. He is such a funny guy we always get a kick out of him. Hope you enjoy this too!

Predicament

2008-12-17T07:57:00.000-08:00

Ansley wanted to paint her nails this morning so I let her. Here is our conversation.

Ansley: Mom do you know what a predicament is?
Me: Yes it is like a problem.
Ansley: That is right, and I am having a problem here!

She comes up with the funniest things!

David Graduates!

2008-12-13T21:49:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to my brother David who graduated from Utah State today. I am so proud of him. I am so glad I was able to go and see him graduate. Thanks so much to Tim who braved the snow to take me and my parents.

Santa Photos!

2008-12-11T13:35:00.000-08:00

Ti's the season for photos with Santa hope yours turn out better then these! I love the expressions on the Santa's faces too. Sooo funny!

A Christmas song for you

2008-12-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

Emma started piano lessons this year (Grandma Petty is her teacher). Her latest favorite is Away in a Manger.

Christmas Tree Adventures.

2008-12-07T19:14:00.000-08:00

We bought a Christmas tree on Saturday. After looking for a tree at a very expensive lot, we found a small lot (6 trees) but there wasn't anyone working there. We found a sign laying down with a phone number so we called to see if we could buy a tree. The man that answered said that he didn't live very close but that he would be working all day the next day. After explaining that we wouldn't like to buy it on Sunday he agreed to let us take the tree and come back to pay for it on Monday (very nice!). The kids could hardly wait to throw the decorations on, so tonight we decorated our tree and had a fun family time doing it! It's not a Martha Stewart tree by any means, but the kids love it and I guess that is all that matters! Here are some pictures of our fun night!

Nate hung a few ornaments

Ansley was in charge of the stool and the one section she could reach

Matt had fun reconnecting with his old ornaments

Emma was so excited about the star!

The finished product.

Cool old photos.

2008-12-06T13:11:00.003-08:00

I Just found some old pictures that I thought were cool, and funny!

This is my Dad He is so funny. I just had to post this picture!

My Family minus the oldest and youngest sisters. Check out those glasses! and look at my skinny mom after 8 kids. So unfair that I did not get her genes.

My Grandpa Dilworth and his family. I just thought it was a cool old picture. I love looking through old photographs.

My grandma and grandpa Dilworth's engagement picture. They were so cute!

How to lose a cat in 24 hours!

2008-12-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

So our kids finally talked us into getting a cat. We bought the food, dish and cat litter and decided we would keep it in the garage until it became accustomed to its surroundings. Within 24 hours it had ran away. We think it must have gotten out without us seeing when we opened the garage door. The kids are so sad. But no worries Grandma has one more kitten to get rid of. We'll see if we can do a better job this time!

Fun Sparkling Ice Crystals

2008-12-04T12:09:00.000-08:00

We just bought the stuff to make these cute ice crystals I think they will be cute on our tree. That is if they turn out as cute as these! This idea came from Family Fun

Another fun giveaway

2008-12-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

I found another fun giveaway at the LilPeanutPatch check it out maybe we will win something fun this holiday season.

Nature vs Nurture!

2008-11-30T05:49:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday my older brother and sister and their families came over for dinner. We started talking about our siblings and how we are all so different, yet somehow we can get along just fine. I guess that being different actually helps us get along. It made me think about nature vs nurture. I think my family is a huge example of how both affect us! All of these nine people are individuals with different personalities and strengths, yet in someways we are all alike and are linked with our past experiences, which were very similar. Our family is also unique and you can tell by the grouping of this picture. We have the older kids (the first 3 on the right), then the boys, the younger kids, and the babies! I don't know if my parents were insane or amazing to have this many children, but I do know that we sure have a good time when we all get together!

No Shopping for Me!

2008-11-28T06:27:00.000-08:00

This is the first year in a long time that I am not out shopping on Black Friday. My baby starting getting sick last night and I did not feel so swell, so needless to say I am home and not shopping, how sad is that. Well I hope I win some of Jamie's giveaways to cheer me up. Maybe I will head out now and see if I can find anything leftover from the mad rush. I hope you all had success this morning. And like we would say in Oregon, I hope the shopping fairies were with you this morning.

Jamie's give aways!

2008-11-26T11:37:00.000-08:00

My friend Jamie is doing a fun give away on her blog! If you don't already know go check out her sight. You can access it from mine. (Larsen Family). Knowing Jamie she will have tons of cute stuff. So you should all play it will be fun!

We saw this on Mindi's blog, we thought it was so funny, had to copy!

2008-11-25T15:40:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Uintah United

2008-11-24T08:17:00.001-08:00

This weekend we went to the premiere of Uintah United. It is a documentary about Uintah and the story of a man named Golden Kilburn who helped heal the town after a tragedy. It is an amazing story. The boy that was killed in the story was Tim's Grandmothers cousin. We have been reading a family history from that family. Wow it is amazing to learn about your ancestors, and the lives they lived. Even if you have no connection to this town or family I would highly recommend seeing the movie. It is an amazing story and part of Utah history.

Cinnamon Sugar Shakers

2008-11-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

My Kids favorite thing is Cinnamon toast. It was such a pain to make before we came up with this great idea! I found the shakers at Tai Pan. And now we all enjoy the ease of making the treat. I just butter the toast and let the kids do the shaking! It has been a great time saver.

Growing up

2008-11-18T13:00:00.001-08:00

Ansley is growing up in so many ways. Her new thing is dressing herself, and she likes to do it 3 to 4 times a day. She is very sure of what she wants to wear, and sometimes we have a hard time when we have to leave the house. But as you can see today we might just stay home.

Nate's first Haircut!

2008-11-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

It was crazy until Tim started using the clippers, then he was just fine and curious about the tool his dad was using.

Turkey for Dinner?

2008-11-16T15:12:00.000-08:00

I just found this picture on my brothers web site. I was excited for thanksgiving, now we might be having chicken!

I thought I should explain this turkey a little further so it did not seem so random. Last year my brother took this picture in his back yard. Yes they had an infestation of wild turkeys.

Beautiful Fall Day!

2008-11-15T15:49:00.000-08:00

It is a beautiful day today. My friend Mellisa took our pictures. These are some I took while we waited for her to come. The kids had so much fun being outside if only the nice weather could last.

The Flu

2008-11-11T16:18:00.000-08:00

Oh what a day! Nate has been throwing up and sick all day. He slept long enough for me to clean up the throw up, and straighten the house. I think he is finally feeling better he woke up and ate a banana and drank some juice. He is now asleep again. So I found this web site I like about Kids Health , it says you should call your doctor if your child has had a fever for more then 24 hours. Nate is on his second day of a fever, but seems better so I guess I will wait until tomorrow. Hopefully I won't regret that choice at 2 in the morning.
So after a day of sick kids I am thinking soup tonight here is one of my favorite recipe from my friend Roxi

Chicken Tortellini soup
7 cups water
6 Cubes chicken bouillon
1 can cream of chicken soup
2 cups cooked chicken
1 cup onions
3 to 5 sliced carrots
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp basil
1/2 tsp oregano
salt and pepper to taste
1package tortellini (I buy the fresh three cheese, in the fresh pasta section)
1 90z package of frozen broccoli

Add everything and cook until vegetables are soft then add Tortellini and cook for 7 to 9 minutes last add frozen broccoli

enjoy!

2008-11-10T08:01:00.000-08:00

I love thanksgiving and all the family helping in the kitchen. It is such a fun time for kids. I just found some fun ideas for the kids, on Family Fun's web sight. I think it would be fun for them to have an activity while the adults are busy in the kitchen. I am going to try this craft this year.

Girls Night Out

2008-11-08T05:26:00.000-08:00

Last Friday the girls and I went to see High School Musical 3. We all loved it! It was so fun to be out with just the girls. I am loving that my girls are getting old enough that I can take them to things like this. Now I have an excuse to see all these teen shows!

2008-11-07T08:16:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a month we have had. We have been so busy I have not had a chance to stop and reflect. First we went camping. I have pictures but can't figure how to get them off Matt's camera so I will have to post them later. We had a great time and enjoyed our trailer and each others company. Tim did not get his deer but oh well we had fun any way!

My brother got married in the Vernal temple so we spent a few days with family in Vernal. Its always hard to get out there, but once we're there I never want to leave. It was fun to run into a few people from High School. It has been 17 years. I only embarrassed my self twice. First I asked a guy who I should have known if he was my new sister-in-laws uncle. Then I introduced Tim to some friends and called them the wrong name. So anyway, two may not seem like that much until I tell you I only ran into 3 people. Well maybe next time I will review my yearbook before I go home.

Later in the month Matt and I went to This is the Place Monument and Pioneer Village with his 4th grade class. It was really fun. I have also been teaching Spanish in Matt's class. I am really enjoying this year with him.

Finally Halloween. What great fun we had. The kids all enjoyed dressing up. Matt started out as a roman soldier (complete with armor made from a milk jug), but he did not like the itchy cape around his neck so he changed to an army guy the day before Halloween.

Emma was a Mermaid and looked beautiful like always.

Ansley was a cute pink witch. She turned us into frogs all night long.

Nathan was a lion and would not keep his hat on unless he was eating candy. He ate a lot of candy, and once he figured out that it was his you could not even touch his bucket.

Okay, here is our funny story. Tim and I never dress up, but Tim has a brother and sister-in-law who love Halloween and always throw a big party. We decided to dress up like Velma and a swamp monster. Tim thought that noone would be able to tell what he was and that he would have to explain it all night. So at 5:00 pm Tim came up with an idea and made it (The party started at 6:30pm). This is what we ended up as! So funny huh!

Fun things they do

2008-09-29T21:34:00.000-07:00

I love being a mom and watching my kids grow. Tonight Nate learned to fold his arms for the prayer. He is getting so big and just keeps us laughing all the time. He can say so many words every day I think he learns a new one, today he said drink. His favorite word is Horse and shoes and he uses those together he always wants to go outside and see the horse. (Like father like son).

Thanks to Ansley for this lovely picture she loves to play photographer!

Emma turns 7

2008-09-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

Emma had her birthday on the 25th, she is now 7! I can't believe how fast they grow up. She had a great birthday. Her favorite gift was a Beach Boys CD. We are all enjoying that one!! As you can see Nate really enjoyed the cake too!

Matt is so much like his Grandpa Dilworth. When Grandpa comes to visit Matt likes to hang out with him.

Little Buckaroo Rodeo

2008-09-17T21:12:00.001-07:00

Here are some pictures of the kids at the rodeo this last summer.

Happy Birthday to Tim

2008-09-14T15:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Tim. Today he turned 35!!! We have been married 11 years and every year I think I have made carrot cake for his birthday. I'll have to post the recipe it is the carrot cake that will make you love carrot cake and want it every year too!!