Families r like fudge mostly sweet with a few nuts

Christmas Preparations

2012-01-30T16:05:00.000-08:00

Pretty much my favorite thing to do is decorate the tree every year! First off you HAVE to get a REAL TREE- I dont do fake..... I LOVE the smell too much!! Its worth the mess:)
I think I have passed that down to Lana, cause she cant wait to decorate. We put on the Christmas music and get to decorating!! I love it when I hear Lana sing Christmas songs and even try to sing the ones she doesnt know the words to.
This year Braden wanted to help, he got on that latter about a million times.... all though him helping means taking ornaments off the tree then throwing them lol

My Little Helpers

Like Father Like Son- wants to be like Daddy

She has her Dad wrapped around her finger

My two favorite boys in the world!!

Lana took this picture of Brian and I....good job Lana :)

Braden is having a fit in the back round- I think I wouldnt let him play with my camera lol

Love the feeling you get Christmas time :) and I love family time with the ones that matter the most- my little family!!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-18T14:47:00.000-08:00

This year we had Thanksgiving with the Booth, May and Gardner family. They are all families in our ward. We had a great time together, and when we all get together there is some MAJOR GOOD food to eat!! I love having such great friends they are our family away from family :)

Here are my girls, Julie, Kayla, and Mis Angie

Just take a look at some of the FABULOUS food we had

Kyle had fun with playing in the girls hair clips lol

More and More good food :)

My kiddos- Braden didnt have a nap so he didnt care to have his picture taken..Lana was off playing the whole time. This was the only picture I was able to snag :)

Me and my loves :)

All the men stuffed and taking it easy on the couch. Life is rough :)

My Models

2011-12-18T14:28:00.000-08:00

I tried to have Lana model one of my headbands for Etsy, this is all I got ha ha..... She wanted Braden in the picture, I dont blame her he is cute ;)

2011 Pumpkin Patch

2011-12-18T14:10:00.000-08:00

Lana's favorite part is the animals, well when they are not attacking us for food!!

Braden is such a boy, wanted to help daddy !!

I HEART THIS PHOTO of Braden looking in on a ride he wishing he could go on :)

Which one Braden?
Lana says SHAKA!!

Wheeling the kids and pumpkins home :) - Too bad Brian and my pumpkin were all moldy inside and couldnt carve them-BOO-

2 Years Old

2011-12-18T13:57:00.000-08:00

My little boy is 2 years old. He like ALL dinosaurs, trucks, animals, airplanes, anything he can throw. He loves being with his sister. He loves to try whatever me or dad are eating, he does not care to start potty training, he loves being outside,he is a CRAZY wild man in the bath, he loves to make messes and get into whatever he can touch :) he is the sweetest boy ever and loves to give hugs and kisses, he is a crack up and makes us laugh everyday!! We all adore him, and are thankful he is in our family......not so thankful he keeping getting older :/ I love this age!

Halloween 2011

2011-12-18T13:32:00.000-08:00

This year for Halloween I had no idea what to have the kids be or what I was going to be. Lana really persisted on being Little Mermaid and she wanted the WIG and ALL!! She also was asking if I could be Littler Mermaid too. Have any of you seen the Little Mermaid costumes for adults??? Lets just say I had to make mine modest!! We both had the wigs and I made sea shell necklaces and hair clips for us. I LOVE Halloween to dress up try new things and have fun. I went all out with the eyelashes and makeup.. thought it turned out pretty good :) I told Brian he could decide what him and Braden would be. So Braden was a cute little EWOK and Brian - Skywalker. Now if you know Brian he isnt much for Halloween, I must of rubbed off on him cause he was all into it this year( Star wars is his favorite movie) The kids went trick or treating with the neighbors and we all had a blast together.

What I made for the ward party :) ewwww

Field Trip

2011-10-26T19:32:00.000-07:00

Today I got to go on my first field trip with Lana and her Kindergarten class to the pumpkin patch. I was so excited to go and be with her to see how it is with her class. Lana was all smiles realizing I was not going anywhere and that in fact I was staying. She kept telling me she was so happy I was there.She wanted to hold my hand the whole time and be right next to me. She sure knows how to make me feel special!!! The cool part was that if you come to help chaperon you get to sign your kid our for the rest of the day. So Lana was happy she got to come home with me. It was a fun day and I look forward to helping more in her class :) I HEART being her mom !

Happy Birthday Braden

2011-10-24T07:48:00.000-07:00

My baby boy is 2 today...coming into the worls at 10:51 pm and weighing 7Lbs 12 oz..... not sure how I feel about this....the time has just gone by to fast!! He has been the biggest joy in our family and we all adore him. He is the family clown and is crack up. He is the BIGGEST momma's boy you will ever meet and I LOVE it!
Right now he likes to:
Throw tantrums
Watch the Night At the Museum and all Shrek movies
be wild crazy boy in every bath
is interested in any BUG
Loves the dogs
do anything thats with his sister
drink Naked smoothies
still have mommy hold him
is in LOVE with his Blankie and has it with him every where he goes

Here are some pictures of my Baby Boy-

Happy Birthday Braden......we fall in love with you again and again....more and more... every. single. day.

LA ZOO

2011-10-16T21:37:00.000-07:00

We decided to celebrate Braden's birthday early while Lana had 2 weeks off for Fall break. We went and picked up Great Gma so she could enjoy the day with us! She is FINALLY retired at 79 years old!!!!! Yay for her!!

I thought he would love the zoo. I DID NOT want to go on a weekend. So a Tuesday it was.... it happened to be extra HOT that day! I think it hit 100.....we all sweat our butts off!! But it was still fun and the hits LOVED every animal!!!

This GUY was HUGE

Now thats a booty!! lol

Lana wanted a picture with her favorite the giraffe

Lana with Beach Gma :)

ok so I will say I am NOT a monkey person.... I just dont like monkeys, I think they are ugly and gross.... but I did however enjoy this picture of a mother snuggling up with her 3 week old. We even got to see her kiss her babies hand. It was cute

But this monkey freaks me out-eww-

This Hippo was ready for his LUNCH!!

Braden was so good and stayed up the entire day because he was so interested in all the animals to look at!!

Ended our trip to the Zoo with an ICEE on a HOT day! Kids were happy!

Braden fell asleep before we got to the freeway!! And of course he has his blankie!

Even Great Gma and Lana fell alseep.... LOOK they are holding hands- how sweet-

ok.....is Braden really turning 2 next Monday the 24th? I am freaking out.... 2 already :(
I . am. sad.
Glad I savored every moment he was a baby cause it went by too fast!!

Facebook Page

2011-10-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

I have a new facebook!!! Come "like" the Shabby Shop

Go Here

Here are a few sneak peaks

5x7 Distressed Stripe frame
Fabulous Burlap Banners
8x10 damask frame
Come check us out :)

The Shabby Shop

2011-09-27T21:17:00.000-07:00

Like What you See???? Go to my Etsy Store to see more :) CLICK HERE

The Patio

2011-09-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

The Patio has been done for some time now..... I am just now taking pics of it !! It was fun decorating with fun bright colors for outside. I LOVE the outlet fabric store by my house, I was able to get all kinds of fun fabrics to sew for the curtains and pillows!!It all came together and I love the outcome of it.
ps- I am in love with the outdoor Zebra rug !!

I found this sweet looking old window frame at an antique store, it went perfect with the patio!

I heart this Chandelier!!!

I spy Braden :)

I tie the curtains up a few different ways, for different looks!

I love our patio :) It beats having all dirt back there!!

HomeMade Wreaths For the Holidays

2011-09-19T01:23:00.000-07:00

I was Blog surfing and saw an AMAZING (Thanksgiving) wreath so to the store I went.......... I changed some things and made a few of my own, even after I made a Halloween one!! Next you know I am going to make a Christmas too!! They make great gifts and are so cheap and easy to make. Make sure you shop the floral when its all on sale and grab your coupons. I am so in LOVE -LOVE with these!!

Cutest thing ever

2011-09-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

I found this doll crib and corner bench at an awesome Antique shop ( I am so into Antique Shops right now ) When I saw them I KNEW that my SISTER SELENA NEEDED them for her little girl Brynn ....who is on the way!!! I pictured her taking pics with Brynn in them and having them in her room!! But of course I had to do a makeover so they can match her room design and colors. That was the fun part!! Had to paint and sew new bedding and pillows. I LOVE LOVE how they turned out. Now we are just waiting for little Brynn-Brynn to get here :)
BEFORE
AFTER

BEFORE
AFTER

First Day of Kindergarten

2011-09-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

Our Lana some how turned 5 already.... how it came so fast we have no idea!!! I was very sad and even cried some of the days leading up till this day, but when the day came I POPPED out of BED and was more excited for her than any kind of sadness. I remember the butterfly feeling I got on the first days of school and how your so nervous you dont know what to expect. I was feeling that for Lana that day. She was ready for school and I had to let her go! I just now realize that she will be in school from now till 18 then even college.... no more hanging out with me at home doing things together when ever we wanted. Now it will be about friends and school. I hope I have taught Lana well enough to where she can be a good example at school to others, and will be a friend to everyone.
Looking back I am so thankful to of been able to stay at home with her and teach her up until now .I will have to leave the rest of the teaching up to the professionals :) I will miss her but glad to be spending some one on one time with my love bug Braden. I LOVE this picture of Lana!! Such a sweetheart!!

Lana and Kellen...(our neighbor) are in the same class. It was nice Lana already had a build in friend.

Lana was already tired before she even got to class..and of course asked DADDY to hold her :)

I love this picture of Kellen.....what a cutie

Ok so the parents were not allowed in the classes because it was too crazy on the first day of school..... so since I could not go in I was one of those crazy moms who took pictures through the window he he he
I got to see Lana find her name on her desk and sit down....she looks so serious in all her pics lol

She had a great day at school and was exhausted when I went to pick her up. She didnt want to talk about anything right away so I let her relax then asked her a bunch of questions :)
My little Lana is 5 and in school!!

Beach with Heather and Gardners

2011-08-15T21:25:00.000-07:00

While Heather was here we of course HAD to take her to the BEACH.... she was coming from Utah so it was a MUST!! We also went with my good friends and neighbors the Gardener's. We were there pretty much all day... I got so burnt!! Of course my kids just got tan-those Hawaiian genes lol It was a blast...love going to the beach :) Here is A LOT of pictures I took!!!! I had a little fun with the camera that day!

My main squeeze .....Braden-what a cutie!

Kids having a blast :) Love this picture

Miss heather on her phone :)

Azure and Braden
Braden looks thrilled to have his picture taken with me

Kids wanted to get buried in the sand! Baden just had fun watching

One eyed Heather

Mr. Kellen-he was very cold coming out of the water

Love these pics of auntie Heather and the kids- so sweet

My kids LOVE AUNTIE HEATHER!!

Miss Princess Lana :)

Mr. Stud

Braden pretty much had some kind of food in his hand the entire time lol

Laying out !!

Heather built herself a bathtub- well thats what we called it

and she relaxed in her tub lol

then so did I

We are making the same face right here- hilarious

I love my kiddos!!

Trying to climb out of the tub..it wasnt easy we dug it pretty deep.

Peek-a-boo mom!!

Sandy much?? Love her facial expression..funny girl

Daddy showed up towards the end of the day. Kids were happy to see him and show him all the cool things at the beach.

Anniversary Getaway

2011-08-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

Brian and I wanted to get away for our 7 yr anniversary... a lot has gone on in the last 6 months so it seemed a good idea to get away -OVERNIGHT- with -NO KIDS- and it was just what the doctor ordered. We had Heather come and watch the kids for a few days.
It started with
couples hour massages ( which was the BEST EVER)
then to the beach
good food (Houstons)
a cute hotel
a trip to Catalina ( I have never gone)
some snorkeling
some shopping
more beach time (I was able to even take a nap)
more good food(Bj's)
and we went to a movie every night....some nights even a midnight showing. It was perfect :) Here are some pictures of our time together. Happy Anniversary to us...we survived 7 years lol Thanks Brian for planning our getaway I love every minute of it ! MUAH!

Brian pretending to climb this rock lol

An ugly crab- ew

Me and the Hubbs!

Look at that view!!

A surfer guy...looked like a cool pick....now I notice you can see his butt crack!!

Birdies!!

Brian fell asleep on our boat ride to Catalina... he was tired... remember we went to late night movies lol

View from boat

Me just snapping pics while we were on Catalina

I loved napping on the beach not running around after any kids :)

Us being goofy as usual

Brian chowing down on his ice cream cone... I might get into trouble for this picture !

On our way back to NewPort... Bye bye Catalina.. I didnt get any pics of us snorkling together..but we had fish food and the fish were so CRAZY... one even bit Brian's finger and tons of fish surrounded him!! Lets just say I did not feed the fish while snorkeling.

Ok I had to take a picture of the cute doors at our hotel in New Port ;)

Cant wait for our next getaway with no kids!! Thanks Heather for watching them!! We will miss you when you go to BYU Hawaii !! Guess we will have to visit - I am not complaining !!!

My First Garden :)

2011-07-30T22:36:00.001-07:00

I am pretty excited seeing my garden grow. Its my first time so I dont really know what I am doing...and the kids LOVE to help water and plant everything. So far so good..... I deff like to garden :) Here is a list of the things I am gowing...I only took pictures of the fruits and veggies that have bloomed

cucumber*greenonion*tomatoes*zucchini*lettuce*greenpeppers*jalepeno*Boysenberry*blackberries*strawberries*raspberry*cantaloupe *watermelon*honeydew*sunflowers

some watermelons

I think this is cantaloupe or honeydew
another watermelon..... I LOVE watermelon !!!!!

Boysenberry

jalapenos

peppers

cucumber
tomatoes
Lana holding the hugest cucumber you WILL EVER SEE!!

Another cucumber.... as you can see a little critter got to it and had a snack... I have to do something about that!!

Green onions
lettuce
Sunflowers that are as tall as our fence
This is my FAVORITE flower growing in the backyard :)
My garden
Its kind of a wild jungle in there...makes for good bug hunting... we have lots of BUG JARS at my house ...kids have a blast with all the kinds of bugs you can find!!

This is my sweet little peach tree. I have 2 of these little trees. Hopefully next year I can get some PEACHES :)

Fried Zucchini w/cucumber dip

2011-07-30T22:10:00.000-07:00

My neighbor made some of this for us and well I had to make more cause it was SO SO GOOD!! Its not hard to make and you have to try it! Perfect for summer and if you have zucchini's to use up in your garden :) oh ps this is the Black Angus version :)

Here are the steps for the dip:
*Using the small grate on your cheesebox, grate one cucumber (unpeeled).
*Then grate 1/4 cup onion.
*Put both of the onion and cucumber in a sieve to let most of the water drain out. Transfer to a bowl.
*Add 1 tsp Worchestershire sauce. I know what you're thinking. W sauce in a dressing? Oh yah.. it makes it so good! It also gives this dip a distinct, rich flavor.
*Add a few shakes of tabasco sauce.
*Add 2/3 cup mayonnaise.
*And then add 1/3 cup sour cream
*1 1/2 tsp sugar
*1 1/2 tsp white distilled vinegar.
*1/2 tsp garlic powder
*Add 1 tsp salt and a few twists of black pepper.

Mix it all together. Cover and put in the fridge to set about 8 hours. If you don't have 8 hours, it's okay. This dip can be made the night before.. this gives it time for all of the flavors to marry.

Now for the Zucchini steps:

*Slice some zucchini
*In three separate bowls put some flour mixed with seasoned salt and dill weed (far right). In the next, whisk one egg (middle). In the last bowl, put some panko bread crumbs. Don't use regular bread crumbs. They aren't the same at all and you'll wind up with something that can't even be compared.

*Now it's time to get our fingers all gunky. Drop some zucchini slices in the flour. Coat boat sides well.
*Then drop into the egg bowl. Make sure egg gets on all sides.
*Then put the zucchini in the panko. Coat well.
*Repeat until all slices are breaded.
*Heat some oil over medium heat until it comes to about 360*. Carefully put the slices 4-5 at a time in the oil. After 3 or so minutes, turn the zucchini over.
*When both sides are golden brown, pull from the oil and set on paper towels to drain.
*Serve hot with the cucumber dip.

Happy Father's Day to Brian

2011-07-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

I still have been slacking on posting....but its summer time so I have an excuse he he he
Lana had her first DANCE recital on Father's Day and what a great present for him :)
We loved watching her perform and she was the CUTEST THING I HAVE EVER SEEN up on stage with her class. The performed doing tap and ballet. Auntie Cilla was able to come too...so that even made it more excited for Lana.

Here are some pictures ...... in some its kinda black under her eyes cause she was trying to take off her mascara lol.... not going to lie it was fun putting mascara on her and I am jealous of my 5 yr olds eyelashes!!! She was SO nervous at first having to go on stage but now she cant wait till next year!!
Great job Lana ..... MOMMY and DADDY are so proud of you!!!

After the dance recital ( which was 3 hrs long) we went back to our house and Brian had requested Cafe Rio salad for Father's day..... so we ATE TONS and relaxed outside and watched the cousins play! It was a good time :)

Dad wanted to take a nap outside lol dont blame him it was nice outside :)

I told Lana to get out of her dance clothes and to get dressed and this is what she came out in.....hilarious ! Looks like she likes to accessorize !!

Tried getting a pic with Dylan..harder than I thought laying them all on the grass!!

Happy Father's Day Brian................... it was a GOOD day !!

Jalapeno Poppers YUM

2011-06-20T10:45:00.001-07:00

I just thought one day it would be good to try to make these......so to the store I went. I will say for the first time making these...they turned out really good...if I do say so myself :)
I dont ever fry anything really ....but this was an exception.

Ingredients

12 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon bacon bits
12 ounces jalapeno peppers, seeded and halved
1 cup milk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup dry bread crumbs
2 quarts oil for frying

Directions

In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, Cheddar cheese and bacon bits. Spoon this mixture into the jalapeno pepper halves.
Put the milk and flour into two separate small bowls. Dip the stuffed jalapenos first into the milk then into the flour, making sure they are well coated with each. Allow the coated jalapenos to dry for about 10 minutes.
Dip the jalapenos in milk again and roll them through the breadcrumbs. Allow them to dry, then repeat to ensure the entire surface of the jalapeno is coated.
In a medium skillet, heat the oil to 365 degrees F ( 180 degrees C). Deep fry the coated jalapenos 2 to 3 minutes each, until golden brown. Remove and let drain on a paper towel.

Fair Time

2011-06-14T15:28:00.000-07:00

Brian does the fair every yr for Verizon. Of course its an excuse for us all to go and have fun and eat JUNK food ! This was the San Bernardino fair. They had these cool balls on water you go in and walk on the water. It's a bit tricky tying to stand up but I think I was pretty good at it:)

I decided to get in with Lana while Daddy watched Braden and took pics. Lana was scared to get in at first but as soon as I said I was going too.....she was fine. It was a lot of fun and I deff recommend trying it out :)

PILLARS

2011-06-14T15:19:00.000-07:00

Over a yr ago we hired a guy to do flagstone on our patio and to do our pillars.....lets just say he up and left with out finishing a single thing.....but left all the materials. So we finally got them finished:) So excited. Love how they turned out and the fact I can put drinks and such on top of them...its not grouted in this pic but they are now and I am loving the look.

Happy Mothers Day To Me

2011-06-14T00:46:00.000-07:00

I know I am super late with Mother's Day too... But I have to catch up sooner rather than MORE later Right?
Well When I think back on Mother's Day I remember it being like a perfect day for me...and I never really EVER say that! I remember being HAPPY and enjoying every moment. It was probably my best yet...I dont know why but it was.
I am so grateful to be the MOTHER of Lana and Braden ...they bless my life every.single.day.
I could not imagine life without them...even on their bad days :)

So while Braden and Daddy took a nap
( I didnt want to sleep...have not been much of a napper anymore-BOO)
I decided Lana and I should do a little photo shoot with ourselves. This is what having a daughter is allll about! Let the fun begin.................This is the Classic smile ....

The tongue out look .......
I think Selena Russ Ryan and Lacey have an inside Joke about this eye thing.....but it was Lana's idea lol

The lets mess with our hair look....

The give mommy kisses cause its Mother's Day look lol

The I AM SCARED LOOK!----YES my eyes really do get that big.....

We are too COOL/MAD look

The SILLY LOOK

And...one...more...classic smile....

When Braden woke up he wasnt feeling good....but of course I tried to get pictures of us all anyway!! I had to give it a shot!

Sorry Braden I know Mommy would not stop with the camera!

ME and my BOY :)
I love this picture of Brian and Braden...they look so cute and sweet :)
And... I had to add a picture of the dessert we had that night.... I forgot what it was called but it was OH>SO>GOOD!!! We made whip cream from scratch too...and I wanted to eat it all! Did I mention I love whipped cream?
Happy Mother's Day to me :)

Backyard changes

2011-06-14T00:27:00.000-07:00

Lots has been going on in the back yard....we were able to get some GRASS- Which we LAYED the SOD OURSELVES!!! It was HARD work but totally worth all the effort :)
We did however hire someone for the sprinkler system and block work. He also built the kids a SANDBOX!! Brian requested a big one....well he got it...its an 8x8 sandbox and the kids COULD.NOT.LOVE.IT.MORE!!! Every morning after breakfast they head out to the sandbox. I could not help myself I HAD to make a sign and wanted a little organization with the buckets and shovels. LOVE how it turned out :)

This side is the dog run. THEY have their OWN grass and WE have OURS. Sounds fair to me!

Still have a lot more to accomplish but its coming along and I am so excited :)

More Random

2011-06-14T00:17:00.000-07:00

Great Gma Atkin bought this teal suit for Braden and I ried my best to get a few pictures while he was some-what being still.

This was a while ago. My kids LOVE being outside .....they love to have picnics on the patio :)

Easter is finally getting posted :)

2011-06-13T23:47:00.000-07:00

I know its been a while. That's life for you!! Well I am happy to start up the blogging since I am a million pictures behind-GEEZ-

Here are some treats Lana and I cooked up for her Pre school class. They were so EASY and YUMMY! Lana loves bringing goodies into class and saying she helped make them !!

Easter Morning ...looks like the Easter Bunny made it to our house :)

Braden LOVES-LOVES to wear SUNGLASSES!! The only baby I know that will put them on and KEEP them on! He cracks me up

Had to snap as many pictures as I could before church......

Auntie Cilla came over with her Mom and Sister to spend time with us on Easter and to do an egg hunt for the kids.....well mainly for Lana. lol Dylan is getting so big !!

Random

2011-05-15T15:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some random pictures I have had on my camera. I hate getting behind in pictures..BOO!! Still have a lot to catch up on

Braden was MAD and was NOT into picture taking anymore :/ still funny though

This is his BLANKIE he is OBSESSED with and has to take everywhere with him! Lana was never like that so its cute to see !

Goofing around..... what we do best!!

Lana wanted a little photo shoot when she put this outfit on!! Is she a GIRL or WHAT!!!??? She is a perfect poser.......can you tell her Aunt is a photographer lol

The dogs attaching her with kisses....she didnt see that coming
My sweet little Lana !!

Visitng Beach Gma

2011-05-15T14:52:00.000-07:00

These pics are a couple months old... I have got to find more time for blogging!!!! Anyway we all met up to go visit Great Gma Atkin AKA ....Beach Gma!! Always love visiting her. She is the SWEETEST women you will ever meet! Glad we all got to spend some time with her! Here are pics I took that night :)

Picture Frames BY ME

2011-04-13T17:49:00.000-07:00

So I have a NEW HOBBY!! Its making these beauties!!! I am going to get an Etsy account up and running and sell them on there among other DECOR and crafts...... So here is a sneak peek...... I ......AM..... EXCITED!

Day At the Beach

2011-04-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

Our Good friends Davey and Megan came into town the other week and we met up with them at the BEACH!!! They had rented a house RIGHT ON THE BEACH..... I LOVED IT!! We had a GREAT TIME with friends .....played some bocce ball (which I guess I am not too bad at) ...the kids got to play .... who doesnt have fun at the beach RIGHT??
Here are pics of our day !

Lana actually got BUTT NAKED on the beach..... and I didnt get to my camera in time ...so this is a shot of her getting her swim suit back on!

I LOVE Me Some CAFE RIO SALAD

2011-03-18T12:30:00.000-07:00

I am in love with the Cafe Rio salad......too bad there is not one close by us! So whats next best......making it at home!!! Even better cause the fact I get to have left overs ALL WEEK LONG! YUM!

Cafe Rio Dressing

Mix well in blender:

1/3 lb tomatillos, quartered (peel paper like skin and rinse)
2 large jalapenos, rinsed, stemmed, seeded and halved
2 cloves of garlic
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 large ripe avacado
1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1 1/2 to 2 Tbsp lime juice
salt to taste

Then add and blend again until smooth

1 cup mayo
2 1/2 to 3 1/2 Tbsp ranch powder seasoning

** use about 3-4 tomatillos. If it takes too green add a little more mayo. You can also thin it out a little by adding some milk to make the consistency more pourable , but not too runny.

Cafe Rio famous shredded pork

4lbs pork shoulder
2 T brown sugar
2 tsp. crushed red pepper
1 tsp kosher salt
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp paprika
1 sliced onion
2 cloves minced garlic
1 c chicken stock
1 can coke

Trim fat off roast. Rub the brown sugar, red papper, salt, cumin, and paprika over the roast covering it completely. Put in a crockpot. Set temperature to the low setting. Add the onion, garlic, chicken stock, and coke. Cook for 8 hrs. A good time to prepare it is in the evening, just before bed. Let it cook while you sleep.

STEP 2

1-2 c. brown sugar
2 tsp paprika

Take pork roast out of crockpot. Shred the meat. While the meat is out, add the brown sugar and paprika to the juices. Let dissolve. Return the meat to the crockpot. Continue to cook throughout the day. (8-10 hrs)

Recipe Note: To help lower fat, when you take the meat out to shred it, pour the juices into a gallon size ziploc bag. Allow the juice and the fat to separate. Once separated, cut a small hole in the bag while you hold it over the crockpot. Drain the juices until the fat reaches the bottom of the bag. At that point, stop draining and throw bag away.

Cilantro Lime Rice

1 cup uncooked rice
1 t margarine (optional)
1 clove of minced garlic
1 t grated lime peal

1/8 to 1/4 t of ground black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Combine rice, margarine, garlic, lime peel, pepper and broth in 2-3 quart saucepan. Bring to a boil; stir once or twice. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir in cilantro

Here is a picture of the actual salad! Its SO good! Here is how you layer it. First put a tortilla in the oven with a little cheese sprinkled on it ....leave it in just until crisp. Should only take a few minutes. Next put the crisp tortilla in a big bowl. Then on top on the tortilla add the pork, rice, and beans topped with the lettuce and tortilla strips and some Parmesan.You will LOVE IT!

STAIRS

2011-03-06T22:31:00.000-08:00

Braden likes to TRY and GO DOWN the stairs every chance he gets!!!!!!
Here is him smiling walking to the steps.......probably thinking... oh yay I can go down the steps!!

This is a picture of Braden after I told him NO he could NOT crawl down the stairs!!

{HEART BROKEN}

And it continue for a few minutes. My little man kinda likes to throw tantrums...and can be a bit stubborn :) Got to LOVE BOYS

He is starting to get over the whole NO word...so he is calmed down in these pictures :)

Had to get a Lana picture in :)

Lana trying to calm Braden down ! She is such a loving sis!

By the way I love Braden's little onesie collared shirt he got from his Great Gma Atkin. It shows off his chunky legs that I LOVE oh so much!! Makes you just want to go PINCH those legs of his !

Lana asked for a picture with her Barbie! Cant leave Barbie out.... what was I thinking !

Big 5

2011-03-03T22:10:00.000-08:00

I caught Lana like this fast asleep the other night. Isn't she darling?

Lately Lana has been noticing that she is some what smaller than other kids her age and one morning... she told me.... that she is a SMALL 5 and not a BIG 5. {she says that because she is 5 yrs old} She told me that some boys that are only 4 are taller than her and that she wishes she was taller than them !!! I told her NOT to WORRY that I think she is a BIG 5 NO MATTER WHAT!
Lana is tiny for her age... but I am sure she will like it when she gets older... I know I wouldnt mind being TINY!

I also enrolled her in kindergarten today. The school she will be attending has full day kindergarten. I got to thinking what am I going to do with out her sweet little spirit all day? Dont get me wrong... Lana has her days like any other child. But overall she is as sweet as can be and I really do enjoy her around. I will miss her a lot! I am sure it will really hit me come August! From here on out its going to be school school school!! I will never just have her to myself again. Makes me sad. I have enjoyed being at home with her raising her and teaching her.
But on the bright side there will be more one on one time with my little man. So I cant complain.
LOVE YOU LANA....PLEASE STOP GROWING UP :)

{Bath Time}

2011-02-24T12:59:00.000-08:00

~Braden likes to try and just climb out of the bath! Little does he know his legs ARE NOT long enough to do that yet!~

Braden is trying to BITE his sister in this picture! CAUGHT HIM IN ACTION!
OH BOYS

" MOM STOP TAKING PICTURES"

Lunch Time

2011-02-21T23:56:00.000-08:00

Any time to EAT for Braden is a GOOD time! Sometimes I sit and just watch him eat and look all the funny faces he makes. Its flippin HILARIOUS!! My chubby boy...who loves food

{I LOVE HIM}

Couch Potatoes

2011-02-21T23:47:00.000-08:00

My two little couch potatoes watching cartoons in the morning.
* Lana likes to sit in Braden's chair because she says its bigger and she is the BIG sister :)

Queen of the ipad

2011-02-15T21:30:00.000-08:00

Lana is a PRO when it comes to the ipad ........ I really think she knows how to use it better than I do!!! She loves to play all her educational games on there...it has SO many cool apps to select from. Her dad also taught her how to play the game Angry Birds. Still deciding if that is a GOOD or BAD thing. She loves to also listen to music on it. Now Lana will tell me she needs music while she cleans her room...she is 5 going on 15 !!!! I just love to see how stinkin smart she with this! She amazes me!

Baby Einstein

2011-02-15T21:20:00.000-08:00

Right now Braden {LOVES* LOVES} watching Baby Einstein dvds ! He is just captivated by it and will sit still and just actually watch it. I will catch him laughing at the babies and roaring or {growling} at the tigers.
One day I caught him just sitting on the couch hugging-snuggling up with one of Lana's babies while watching. It was too adorable I had to run and grab my camera! He is so sweet and loving at such a young age and it just melts my heart.
I also love that he will sit still on the couch and watch so mommy can get some things done sometimes :)
** Yay for Baby Einstein **

Hugging up on Lana's baby!

Snuggling up on the couch

Beautiful

2011-02-15T21:14:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of a Beautiful California sunset from our backyard last week.
I LOVE this picture!

Happy Love Day

2011-02-15T08:42:00.000-08:00

Grammie and Aunt Heather sent the kids a V-Day package. One of the items was a bag of balloons. Of course I had to blow them ALL up for the kids to enjoy:) Should keep them busy for a few days and they made for some OH SO CUTE PICS WITH LANA! Thanks Grammie and Heather!

The pic above is Brian giving Braden some chocolate. You can see the delight in Braden's face- too funny....that's my boy!

Daddy also got the kids some balloons...... Braden loves to walk around holding them...and he likes walking around with Lana's V-day basket too!

Braden is not thrilled when sister wants her basket back ;)

Before church

2011-02-07T20:16:00.000-08:00

Tried to snap some pictures before church
{even though we were running late}
I just HAD to get some of Braden in his suit.... before its TOO SMALL on him.
PLUS >Cilla< came to church with us and I had to get a few photos of the cousins of course! This was the best one I got.... Braden didn't want to sit still.
But they all were looking OH SO ADORABLE :)

Not so much

2011-02-07T20:02:00.000-08:00

*I was just doing my usual routine
getting the kids in the bath..... but this time I was just singing a tune.
{out loud}
** Then Lana told me that she cant even play with her toys while I am singing.....
and then asked me to STOP singing .......

*Guess I am no Taylor Swift after all :)
* man and I thought I was cool :)
Bummer

Clean up

2011-02-05T23:04:00.000-08:00

This is what Lana does when I ask her to pick up her toys and put them away. At least they are nicely sitting up :)

Love Bugs

2011-02-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

My little love bugs make each day a better day :) Lana is just the smartest.....kind-loving girl and I love how she cares about everyone and everything.
I love how the first thing in the morning she climbs into her brothers crib to play with him.......then after some playing....she will then come into my room saying..... MOM... you NEED to get up now my brother is awake :)
The other day she randomly asked me .....Mom when is Heavenly Father going to bring me back my balloon? ( a few months ago she lost grip of her balloon and up it went in the sky)
I giggled and said I am not sure honey.
She then says.... I think he is going to bring it back to me when I get baptized :)
Not sure how I am going to pull that one off.
I love her sweet random comments and thoughts.... I get to hear on a daily basis. I am lucky !
I love that Lana loves to do what is right and to make others happy.
I love that before I GO ANYWHERE...she asks for a hug and a kiss!
I Love that she is starting to try new foods cause she says she is a BIG 5 now :)
I love that if you asked he what she wants to be when she grows up...she says she wants to be a mom cause she wants to do the dishes and take care of kids- too funny ;)
I love watching her play with her toys and listening to the stories she makes up- she has got SUCH an imagination :)
I love how she notices I am getting stressed and tells me I need to be more patient :)
So thankful for Lana and her loving spirit!

Oh Braden.... my big Braden! This is such a Braden picture.... the drool...the smile...that's my boy! Can you tell he is playing in his sister's room? Braden loves to play in his sisters room more than his own room. Maybe the bright PINK walls just draw him in :)
I love to see him hugging and loving his sister.... its the best! He literally will follow her around..... if she goes upstairs or to the bathroom..... guess what ...he is right behind her. He likes to growl right now... if you say what does a tiger say? well I guess if you asked him what anything would say he would growl ha ha ...
I love how he loves all food and if you have any food he is your best friend.
I love how he will give me kisses now...even if sometimes its his tongue lol .
I love his chubbs and oh those legs and marshmallow feet -cant get enough of them.
I love all the baby stages and they go by too fast! He is 15 months now! Oh and I should say he is officially walking now! He took his time...cause he knew mom would hold him :)
He is a little snuggler and his sweet personality is just a joy to have in my home.

Cake Boutique and Bakery

2011-02-02T00:28:00.000-08:00

I am SO EXCITED to ANNOUNCE that the BOUTIQUE has opened up shop !!! YIPPY!!
I am selling all kinds of HOME DECOR and CRAFTS! I had so much FUN making every thing. So you ALLLLL need to come check me out :)

ALSO.... you cant forget to stop at the BAKERY and try something! EVERYTHING is SO DELICIOUS!!! I can barely get out of there with out getting something for myself!!

{ COME VISIT US ON FACEBOOK}

Play Time

2011-01-28T23:29:00.000-08:00

We got to hang out with cousin Dylan and Auntie Cilla a few weeks ago and snapped some photos of the kids playing. Crazy to think they will all be running around together soon!

It was Braden's bed time.... he was tired

Lana being our little CHEESE BALL

Grabbing his toes

Look at Dylan's eyes.... he is so lucky to have his mom's beautiful eyes!

Giving snuggles to Lana :)
I LOVE that Braden is SO loving toward his sister....he is JUST the SWEETEST!!
Brother* Sister *LOVE

Disney on Ice with our Snow White

2011-01-28T23:04:00.000-08:00

On Dec. 30th we told Lana we were taking her to a surprise and to get her Snow white dress on.
BOY SHE SHE LIGHT UP!!! She was all giggly and cheering with excitement. The first picture was her all ready to go.

Lana after we told her where we were going.... I have it all on video too....she even screamed when we mentioned she was going to see Snow White.

Lana and her Dad hurrying to get there :)

It was hard to get pictures...they skate so fast!! But here was snow white. Cinderella even handed Lana a flower she got to keep and snow white waved right at her. I did not get many pictures because my camera DIED .... I am still mad about it !

Lana was just amazed with the show they put on .... and right after it was over she said she wanted to watch it again and again ;)

Rewind to Dec30th

2011-01-28T21:55:00.000-08:00

OK lets rewind to Dec 30th. Lana's actual Birthday! Her Gma Carol and Auntie Heather were in town and First thing in the morning we went to IHOP in our jammies!! Lana had a lot of fun with this of course but she also got to wear her rock star pj's. The IHOP staff was so nice....after her breakfast they sang to her and she even got ice cream. I forgot to bring my camera to breakfast...so I took some pics of Lana when we got home. YES Lana did wear her hat to IHOP too! How fun is it to be 5 right?

Rock star pose

For lunch we all went to Chucky Cheese..... I have not been there in YEARS! Man did it sure give me flashbacks of when I had my birthdays there as a kid.

Lana sitting with Great Gma......showing us how old she is !

How can I forget this guy?

Me and my BIG 5 yr old!!

Lana went around to all the arcade games....wanting to win as many tickets as she could :)

Cheese Pizza face!
make a wish baby girl :)

FINALLY got her snow white dress ........ she has been begging for this forever! Snow white is her favorite princess....and also she did not know but she would be wearing the dress that night to Disney on Ice :) What a Fun surprise... I love surprising her
I will never forget this moment. She was begging to go play more games but we said she needed to eat more first. Before she ran off to the games even though she was getting very impatient ...instead she went to play with her little brother who was fussing in his high chair. Braden just kept giving Lana snuggles and loves. Lana forgot all about games she wanted to be with her brother... and snuggle him right back.....
So what did I Do?

I TOOK AS MANY PICTURES AS I COULD!!!

I LOVE MOMENTS LIKE THIS!!!

Lana talked her dad into riding:)

Grammie and Lana

Even Braden got to ride

Beach Gma and Braden!!

Lana loved playing this game with her dad..... she wanted to win soooo bad..... and of course she did... it was her BIRTHDAY YOU KNOW :)

Her Auntie Heather kept scoring Lana so many tickets on this one game... I think she got like 200 tickets for Lana. She was awesome....and I tried to win some on the same game but wasnt so lucky. Heather was a natural!
She got the puck in the pocket!! Point for Lana

Mr Handsome! I could kiss on him alll day llooonngggg

LANA WON THE GAME!!

Rocking it out!
When got home and Braden also got to try out his new slide from Great Gma.

Happy 5th Birthday Lana-Rock Star Style

2011-01-14T18:08:00.000-08:00

Lana was SO SO excited to have her ROCK STAR BIRTHDAY BASH!! Her birthday is Dec 30th... but we waited til Jan 8th to celebrate... so more friends and family could come and its after New Years. Anyway IT WAS A HIT!! We had karaoke with hair and makeup salon, everyone had their own blow up microphones and guitars....even I put the glitter spray in my hair :)
I have mixed feeling about her being 5...she starts KINDERGARDEN this year....WHAT?????.......well it makes me happy and sad....and why do I feel old?? I'm not !
I was so happy to be able to do this for her and I loved decorating for it he he he !!!

Isn't her cake do die for? UMMMM.....now I want one like that for my Birthday! I got it done at Bodatious Bundts and they did such an excellent job! I could NOT of asked for a better cake!! It also did not only LOOK amazing but it was SO MOIST and delicious!!! Thank you Shelly!!

The yummy cupcakes I ordered...they were all filled with something different. I had a lot of them :)

Of course we had to have a little rock star photo shoot before the party ;)

I love her to pieces!!!

Look...she is the BIG 5 now..... whoop-whoop

Gma and papa made it to her party from Az, and my mom helped soooo much... so glad she was there!!

Our little rock stars :)

The newest little rock star made it ...just a few days old... HE .WAS SO. CUTE.

Singing her favorite song.. TAYLOR SWIFT-LOVE STORY

I asked Lana what was her FAVORITE part of the party... she says opening presents... of course... why did I even ask ;)

Happy Birthday!! I used trick candles.... took her a while to blow them all out...but I have it all on video and she had fun with it :)

She also got her first BIG GIRL BIKE! She picked out the Hawaiian Waikiki bike!!
Happy Birthday baby girl... We LOVE you SO MUCH!

Happy Birthday to my FIRST born Lana Marie Soules

2010-12-30T00:03:00.001-08:00

I ask myself.......
How did she turn 5 so fast???

How can I slow time so she wont get older??

Boy do I LOVE HER SO and she has been the sweetest blessing we could EVER ask for.

If you know Lana you KNOW how SWEET she is!!

{She is ALWAYS thinking of others}
{She always greets you with a smile}
{She is genuinely kind to everyone around her}
{She is so soft and gentle }
{she loves everyone and everything around her}
Thank you Lana for lighting up our lives and being such a good example. If we all could be as a child.

Here are some of Lana's interests:
She LOVES to draw
She Loves Christ
She ADORES her brother
She likes to eat Mac and cheese at the moment
Her favorite colors are the rainbow colors
Her favorite princess in Snow White
She is A TOTAL DADDIES GIRL
She loves going to Angel games and likes the Phx Suns
She loves to sing
Loves Taylor swift songs
Loves to go to her Ballet and Tap class
Loves to go to school
Is a pro at the Ipad
Always wants to read books

HERE ARE SOME OF MY FAVORITE NEWBORN PICTURES

Christmas in Pictures

2010-12-29T23:03:00.000-08:00

Copy cat

2010-12-05T20:39:00.000-08:00

Lately Braden wants to do EVERYTHING his sister is doing!!
Also Braden is yet to be walking but is starting to climb every where!!!!
Here are some pictures of these two cuties one night brushing away!!
They are both standing on a step stool..... one of Braden's favorite things to climb!!
Luckliy Lana does not mind Braden following her around doing what she does.
She loves to play with him most of the time and is very sweet toward him !!
Now as for when she is older I am sure it will be a different story :)

If you noticed- they traded toothbrushes lol

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-05T17:08:00.000-08:00

All the pictures I got was just of the cousins :)
All you want to do after you eat is lay around!
We had a good day!
{except for the fact Brian bruised a rib from football}

I LOVE THE FACT THAT MY KIDS ADORE EACH OTHER!!

Dylan's first Thanksgiving!! Braden Loved eating all the food! That boy will eat anything you put in front of him!!
Dont HIT your cousin Braden :)

Santa Came Into Town

2010-11-24T16:08:00.000-08:00

Went to visit Santa today and Lana told him she wanted a COOL flashlight and a seal for Christmas. I have it easy with the flashlight.... but we will have to talk about a PET SEAL ha ha
Braden was not scared of Santa one bit...that's my boy!! Loving this time of year!!

My Boy

2010-11-20T23:05:00.000-08:00

Wanted to share this video........
it's TOOOO CUTE NOT TO!!
I keep telling Braden to STOP growing- but he isn't listening!!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-15T07:43:00.000-08:00

Meet the new Mommy and Daughter Strawberry Shortcake :)

For some reason I felt like my MOM wearing the RED lipstick!! He He

Here are my UPS BOYS!! SPECIAL DELIVERY!!!

Lana and our neighbor Lexie at our ward trunk or treat!

Then we went to Arizona and Lana got to go to Madison's pre school class party, that is taught by my favorite person JILL GOODRICH!! If you live in Az look her up she is a wonderful teacher!!

Look she even dressed up!!!!! How cute is she?

Look at theses 2 best friends!!! So glad they are so close!!

We also go tot go to my sister Nikki's church ward party .......
And this is my CRAZY SISTER (TWIN) NIKKI!!!!

SISTERS!!!!

LOOK HOW GROSS THESE ZOMBIE BABIES ARE!!! They are my sister Selena's and we used them do decorate our trunk for Trunk or Treat!

Braden just kept looking at it- probably thinking what the heck is THAT!!
MY Momma!!

Bri HATED THESE!! She did NOT even want to TOUCH them!
Rock Star Nikki!!

We all went to Rawhide and had us some FUN! Love fooling around with my siblings !!
My Dad and his sling :( He has shoulder surgery but is recovering like a trooper!

How cute is his beenie??

Lana loves Donkey rides!!

Halloween night we went to Nikki's house had a Halloween themed dinner and passed out candy! LOOK at ALL our goodie foods!!!! YUM YUM

PS- THE BEST PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE EVER!!
Relaxing watching Casper!!

A couple of pics of the kids reading books on the swing and having a slumber party in the MONSTER TENT!!