Gooch Daily Comics

Where have I been??

2011-08-19T07:56:00.000-07:00

Just after Christmas last year, I thought my Christmas season for invitations would slow down . . but it didn't. In fact my small business keep increasingly busy more then ever. As much as I enjoyed what I did - I literally had no more time for anything.

I was getting ready for "CHD Awareness" which we always doe every year because of Will, that I realized I could no longer continue on. We left for California. We went over to UCLA to an event that they hosted for kids that go to "Camp Del Corazon". I felt so good about letting go of that part of my world and was looking forward to some down time. . . . When I got home that week I was called into the YW presidency in my ward. Soooo that's where I have been for the last few months. We have had a ton of fun activities like Girls Camp, big combined activities etc. . . When girls camp was over we left for a family reunion up at Zion's National Park. Things have been moving so fast - but needless to say I have been loving my busy life and hope to catch back up with blogging. I love to blog and miss that outlet - sooo hopefully back to recording the fun events that we get involved with.

CHD AWARENESS STUFF i.e. Ethan's Run, UCLA, PCH Thank a doctor

Lisa Knight director of Camp Del Corozon, and Coach of the UCLA Women's Gymnastics - Chris Waller . . . who had a heart defect himself!

TOMMY BURGERS!! YUMM! One of my BFF's came and met our family for dinner!

strawberry cabin: christmas Time

2011-01-27T11:11:00.000-08:00

We went up to the cabin the day after with friends. We had a great time! We took the kids up there to fossil creek to be able to shoot off their BB guns. It was really cold. The cabin was warm and cozy. However, I never knew that we could have a camp fire at fossil creek. That made for a cold day.

Going Private

2010-12-17T12:53:00.000-08:00

I think I'm going private!! Please send me your e-mail to be added to my list of viewers. I am having too many people from other countries like Indonesia, China, New Zealand etc. . . . Not sure who these people are. I kept my blog open for awhile for good reasons - but those reason are no longer.

So please send me your e-mail my way - thanks soo much!! - andi

Gilbert Temple Groundbreaking Event

2010-11-13T11:17:00.000-08:00

We are so excited for our new Temple to be built here in Gilbert, only 5 min. down the road. It was exciting to be down at the event with all the members from around our area. Since we have been back to some church history sites - all the kids thought it was really similar to when the saints were getting ready for the Nauvoo or Kirkland Temple.

Yeah - Rowdy hit Shane on the head with the shovel - OUCH!

Kendal and Shane holding temple shovel

Pity Party

2010-08-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

I was kinda wrapped up in my own disappointments this morning . . . until I saw this video! It was so amazing to me - I watched all the other video's from him - I was soooo impressed!! I had to share this!

Fourth of July - Clark Family

2010-07-04T23:20:00.000-07:00

We had the Clark Family over for BBQ over 4th of July weekend. Brian brought the good food, and entertainment (LOTS and Lots of fireworks). It was great to see everyone. I was glad that David Andru came too. I wish Janelle and Debra lived near by. My kids miss those cousins. But we had a great time with who was in town at the time.

Midnight Eclipse

2010-06-30T22:31:00.000-07:00

Well 3 times a charm. I have had to go to the Twilight midnight showing for the last 3 years. I'm not a the biggest fan of the movie - but I was nicely surprised by this last showing. I actually wasn't tired. We had a great time!

Good Eats - Good Friends

2010-06-23T22:41:00.000-07:00

I love when friends come into town and there is a great excuse to go to lunch and shopping!

Time to Blossom

2010-06-20T22:54:00.000-07:00

Baylie had an opportunity to go to "Time to Blossom". It was just like EFY but for girls only. Baylie really enjoyed all the speakers. John Bytheway she loved! She texted me through the session to let me know how great it was. The theme this year was "Where Confidence Blooms!" They really helped the girls gain self esteem by learning not to compete with one another, and putting each other down etc. . .I really loved it for her!

Happy Birthday Will - big #10

2010-05-30T19:24:00.000-07:00

Today is Will's B-day - He could hardly wait for this day to come! Because his b-day is on a Sunday . . . he benefited from that, and his birthday started last night.

We went to dinner and opened presets & went to see "Shrek" - we love that movie, and then went to a park and played ball for a while. Pancake breakfast etc. . . great for Will.

Trying to catch up!

2010-05-20T19:31:00.000-07:00

In the last few weeks - I have been to the BYU women's conference, came home immediately left for with the family for the Gila Valley Tempe open house, crammed in Baseball tournaments, tryout stuff for next year with a few kids, mothers day, and then Doug and I left for Nashville, Tennessee and Ashville, North Carolina. It's been a little hectic - but worth it!!

Women's Conference: WC as usual was great. This year prior to WC we had: ward conference, general conference, and stake conference - - - It was a nice foundation to go from into WC. It was lovely to hear such great advice and to really set your sites on things that are true and having them on your mind when you go to WC. The messages meant more to me because of that. I really felt challenged to step things up in my life and really focus on things that matter. I always feel uplifted at women's conference. I love the messages and the spirit that is there. There is nothing greater then going somewhere knowing that all of these great women who you are with believe in the same goodness you do - there is such power in that!!! I tried to to capture how wonderful it is in the Marriott Center when we sing. I love the closing session - and feeling the spirit as we sing together! It was fun hanging with friends that had not gone before, friends that you don't get to see often and miss, and the BFFs that you get to enjoy all the time.

Love how have washed my face put on my PJ's and then everyone wants pictures??? Oh well!

Had such a great time with my friend Carolyn

I enjoyed the classes we went to and feeling the spirit with an amazing strong friend!

Kim hiding because we had way too many people sleeping in one room - we pulled in 2 cots. . .

beds were full - but it's not WC without a huge slumber party.

Saying good-bye to Carolyn - she needed to get back to her kiddo's

I looked bummed, maybe cause I was. - MISS YOUR Care!

READY TO SHOP!!!!

trying to figure out how to stuff my suitcase so everything will fit -

I still had to pay a fee for my over the pounds allowed!

Gila Valley Temple - literaly I came home Sat. night and left Sunday right after church for another 2 days. We met up with Casey & Amy and their cute kids. We had a chance to talk to the kids about some special experiences that we have had in our life in regards to the Temple. I really want, not only my girls but my boys, to know how important it is to go to the Temple and learn the special things that will be taught to help you someday return to their Heavenly Father. You only learn these keys in the temple. I also wanted a "Dream" of someday how beautiful it will be to go there and marry their spouse there "FOREVER". When I was a teenager, I grew up in an area where I did not have too many LDS friends in my life. I always pictured a wedding where you walked down the isle and had a pretty wedding train behind you etc. . . .I never fully understand that going to the temple was not just about my wedding day but about the sacred things & ordinances you learn. I never had that dream. It wasn't until I was in college and I was traveling back to UT with my sister Janelle and we went through the Las Vegas Temple open house. I still can picture us changing into our church clothes in a Gas station bathroom prior. When we went through I believe the guide was inspired to take me through the "Bride Room". She shared with me her testimony of how beautiful it is to be married in the Lord's house. From that point on - I had that new dream in my life. I value any opportunity that I have to show all my kids how great it is!

I wish it wasn't so bright out-side for the pics

I need some help with the exposure etc. . .

We love to eat at La Cocina de Casilla in Globe or better known as "Burger House" -

love to eat the Green-Chille Combo Burrito - the BEST!!

Baseball - Loving it!!! I love baseball!!!! Doug is coaching both Tucker and Will this year for the Yankee Minor team. It has been great to go to only one game time through the season. I know we will never have this opportunity again to have both boys and the same team. It has been a lot of fun. We have had many friends on the team this year which has made it double fun. When Doug was drafting the team - most of the coaches pick the next player that scored big during tryouts. Doug chose people that we know. Other coaches questioned his player picks. Oh well - having a great team that you love to hang with has seemed more effective! We are still in the run now during tryouts! I know that having the boys have a chance to play all positions and play with friends and try to make it "FUN" (after all isn't that why the boys play in the first place??) is what has kept them in the playoffs against teams that have all "Club ball" kids on their team and play EVERYDAY - including Sunday!!! So far it has been a great experience for the team - I wish them good luck in the next few games - we hope we can pull it off!!

love this pic - both my boys are in this pic - Tucker pitching, and Will I think is covering 3rd.

Mothers Day

pictured: Baylie; Me; Delight, sister-in-law . . . very wise!!; MaryAnna, Doug's mom; Marcey, Doug's step-mom, Carson, missing, Marica (step-mom) in this picture, but she sneaked out before I could get a group picture.

I also wish I could have had my Aunt Dorthy, MaryLynn Lankford, Tracey O'Niel, my Gammy.

From the Smoky Mountains to the Blue Ridge!!! I'm not kidding when I say Smokey to the Blue Ridge. Doug and I hiked both mountains within a week. Very intense - but it felt good to be working off all the extra food you eat when you are traveling.

Doug presented me going on this trip around Christmas time. I wasn't sure if it was good timing for us since I would have barely been back from Women's conference only a week before. However, Doug showed me how close he was to his mission in Nashville. He has always wanted to show me his mission and possibly meet some of the people that he was involved with their baptism. I knew this was important to him. So off we went to Nashville, TN and then onto Ashville, NC

We flew into Nashville. We were supposed to stay at the "Grand Ol' Opry" hotel - but the week prior, it had flooded with the rain. All of downtown was flooded. It has been devastating for the people there. We changed our plans and saw other sites. It was a really great experience to read from his mission journals and go to the sites that he was talking about. I personally grew a love for the people that he gave discussions too. I was so glad that he wrote in his journal. It really was a great time going through everything. To read Doug's thoughts and words in the beginning (ha ha - what a punk :) ha ha) to the end of his mission - amazing. I was able to capture how serving the Lord can change someone!! His testimony touched my heart and I was happy to know that this experience is why is great (in my eyes - he he) today!! This has truly blessed our family - and I was grateful to gain an understanding of some personal history of my own husband.

Now & Then -- same spot - time has changed!

US together!

On the banks of Cumberland River - in "Old Hickory" - Hendersonville, Tennessee

One of his apartments. One of his Dad's friends from AZ - moved to Tennesse during Doug's mission. He kinda took care of Doug out there - they were in the same ward for awhile. We went and met in at his home there in south Knoxville. He lives on the lake there and took us for a boat ride - loved all the homes that are built there. We had a great time!

We stayed one night in a cabin in the smokey Mountains. IT was so beautiful. We went on a hike - that was beautiful but intense - I had to stop and take a breath - it was all uphill!!

We moved onto Ashville, NC - wow what a beautiful city!! Really artsy - kinda like downtown Tempe feel to it - but beautiful. We toured the famous Biltmore House, built by George Vanderbilt. It was amazing to see a home like that, in it's time. It was on the cutting edge of technology. At first you look at that and think - so many people could have benefited from all of his wealth and he built a home like that??? Then you realize that so many people benefited from a home like that - it employed many of the towns folk, and he was really good to them. We stayed at the "Groves Park Inn". The spa was amazing - never been to one better. It was fun to see all the famous people that go there - I know that Ben Stiller was there at the same time - but didn't see him - my kids love "night of the museum" and really wanted an autograph. Baylie personally wanted one written to her. It was cute - I told her I'm not sure he wants to be bothered. It had a ton of haunted stories too - a lot of fun. We attended a award night for a distributor that Doug works with.

The view from our room was AMAZING!! It was very peaceful and breathtaking! I don't think we ever shut our drapes in our room!

Doug was there for work - and we had a dinner awards night to attend. Doug didn't realize that he would be presented an award.

We walked around the resort at night.

US hiking chimney rock! The hike was wonderful to the top - then we hiked down to the waterfall near by. They filmed "Last of the Mohican's" there, it was gorgeous. We really enjoyed the weather and moved along quick. There were a lot - ALOT of older people on the hike. They kept telling us that it must be so nice to be young and hike fast. We laughed, because we haven't felt young in a long time - we know we are getting old - it was nice to hear!

We attended the Ashville 3rd Ward Branch while there. I love how you can go anywhere and still feel the same gospel message. We met many great people. They were having their "Branch" conference and so we enjoyed the members and leaders there. The one neat thing that both Doug and I were wishing would happen here - but know it's not likely - every month they have a pot-luck. We were invited - it was great!!

This cute little branch is tucked away in a neighborhood - we were late - because it wasn't out in plain site.

This is where they used to meet for church! They were all very happy to get a building. They said that they just barely finished the chapel.

There is no cultural hall there - so they just served lunch in the hallway - great food!

Trips can be hard though - I miss my kids - Everything is magnified on a trip. Everything is great, wonderful, romantic, fun etc. . .etc. . etc. . . but also - I know for Doug and I everything else comes out too. We see everything that needs to be worked on as well. I can say this - that is what made this trip the most worth it of all. We always talk about things that need to be worked on that you don't seem to have the "time" at home or "distractions" etc. . . I truly come home feeling like things have been accomplished that need to be done. I am always grateful for those opportunities to grow!

LOVE THIS GUY!!! Loved this trip with you Doug!! IT was the best for us!!

Well we're home now - back to business. I can't wait for school to be out. I love hanging with my kids.

Summer Tumbling Camp

2010-04-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, my daughter is planning on a little tumbling camp this summer. She has taught tumbling before and loves to teach kids. If you are interested - go to her blog and register or e-mail her. It will be lots of fun!

Here is her web site: www.carsonstumbling.blogspot.com
Her e-mail is on that page & registration form too!

Spring Break Videos

2010-04-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

I love It's a small world . . . it's so fun and cute. After it shows all the little kids around the world - in the end they are all white & Gold together, my kids thought it was kinda like the celestial kingdom . . . and it kinda was.

Gotta have a video of Tally doing her usual picture pose!! Ha ha

I love how kids act annoyed at you with a camera, Doug and I love to bug the kids with this - ha ha

These next two video's are classic! First, it shows what a little comedian Will can be especially if he knows he is on camera. Second, you will see one or more times Tucker fixing his hair (ha ha) Third, brothers teasing sisters . . . our family routine in action. I love it!!

Spring Break 2010

2010-04-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

We had the chance to go to Disney for Spring Break. We threw in a day at the Beach! We had a ton of fun. We met up with friends for the first few days - hooked up with Tally & Nate & their family the last few days.

"Mom - do I really have to wear this??? " Carson used to LOVE Goofy. Growing up when we would go to Disney she has bought the stuffed animal, looked for him to take a picture, etc. . . This year she had NO interest - I am sad that Goofy is now in the past for her. None of my kids cared to take any pictures with any of the charactors. Those little moments are slipping away :(

Love this girls!! They are so fun to hang with!
These girls are fast becoming my best friends - I love it! I miss the girly girl stuff - but they are growing into beautiful young women!

We took a break from the "big"rides and went on the Merry Go Round for Rowdy. He could not have enjoyed it more! He laughed so hard during the entire ride - we had to go back 2 more times. It was so fun to watch him ride.

FRIENDS
We had a chance to meet up with friends!! It was fun for everyone to hang with great people!!

Huntington Beach

We got to hang with Nate & Tally and their family. The weather was perfect!!!! The kids played so great together. Rowdy could not get enough of Deacon - so cute!! We eat on the pier, and shopped at Jacks etc. . .

Ethan's Run

2010-02-20T18:16:00.000-08:00

We had a chance to particpate in "Ethan's Run". It was so great to see everyone out in honor of "Ethan" and for raising awareness for kids born with heart defects. Great job Heidi - you did such a great job!!!

It was fun to hang with friends!

Katie, Baylie & Carson

Molly and her family came out too to walk!

"Team Iron Will" - we walked for Will!

Will was born with Hypo-plastic right heart. He has L-transposition, tricuspid atresia, double-oulet of the right ventricle. In other words - he only has one ventricle. He tried to self-correct his heart by transposing his heart. His surgery was the "Fontan"

I loved watching all the kids run! Look at this way cute smile of Will's!! LOVE IT!!

Several families that walked in honor of a child that they lost to this type of defect. 1 of 100 kids are born with CHD. I truly felt that our situation with Will was so much more effected because we knew before he was born what he ws going to be born with. I wish they would screen for this for every pregenant mom!

Walking with the Picketts!

Me, Marla & Deb - Me and Heidi -- "Ethan's Mom"

Overall best score winner sitting with all the "Heart Kids" I'm laughing at how Will is looking at him!

Will was principle pick/ & field Trip to Peralta Trails

2010-02-20T17:49:00.000-08:00

This is a big deal for Will. Will has been trying really hard to reach his AR goals and improve in his reading and writing skills. He was the "principle's pick" this week. I was so happy for him.

The 4th grade went on a field trip to "Peralta Trails" with the AZ Don's. It was really interesting! They taught them how to lasso, the mexican cowboy, safe hiking, the story of the "lost dutchman", to pan for gold, and how to be responsible with our trash and why.

Valentine's Weekend

2010-02-20T17:10:00.000-08:00

For Valentines Day Doug asked that I go riding with the family. Normally Doug goes with the boys or the kids. We went out. It was a great day! We BBQ. That night we had a bon-fire. It was a really good moment with the family!

FHE - Hygiene Kits

2010-02-09T16:18:00.000-08:00

This post is a bitter-sweet post. So bare with me.

Lately I have been feeling that my kids need a kick in the pants. I'm sure I can't be the only one that feels today's generation is a little selfish. I have been discouraged that my kids don't realize how lucky they are. We have so much to be grateful for! Don't get me wrong - I know my kids over-all are GREAT kids. They surprise me at times. I just want my family to understand "When much is given . . . much is required". . . and not have them complain that they are doing to much.

Soooo what can I do to get my kids wanting the next ipod, 3g phone, always want to play instead of work - I know that our family needs to do more service work. Get us out of ourselves and more out there for others.

So in our Effort to have more service opportunities for FHE we made hygiene kits. I know this is nothing new - my kids have done it for mutual etc. . . But we wanted to make it more personal on a family level.

For FHE we watched the video from Pres. Monson "Have I Done Any Good in the Word Today" video that is on the LDS web-site. LINK

We watched some videos of Haiti on You-tube.

We read the Story of "Learning to Hope" . . . about a women that personally has used a hygiene kit in her life. It is such a powerful testimony to this humanitarian effort. LINK - This story is AMAZING!!

We ran over to Wal-mart and bought all of our stuff - and came back and put together all our our kits. We made 30 kits - on a whole it's not much, but something is better then nothing.

When the night was over - I really felt that there was a sense of - "we have it good" . . . "what more can we do to share our good fortune" The kids were really excited about the kits - they wanted to know if they would know the people they go to. It felt good to have done something good in the world today!

Canning

2010-02-09T16:00:00.000-08:00

I have made a goal to can every Friday. I had my friend Shannon Morris come over and show me how to can "Chicken". I have done it once before - but not in my own home. I can't believe how easy it is. I have opened it up and we had the chicken for dinner. I can't believe how good it is. I have done - sausage, beef, chicken, beans. My sister-in-law Amy is really good. I call her for little tips along the way. She has made me potatoes, beans. We make the best White-Chili straight from our "Food Storage" - it is soooo good.

White-Chili Bean Soup (adapted from Leta Olsen - G3 Ward recipe)

White Lightening Bean Soup

2 bottles of White Northern Beans (or about 3 cans)

4-5 cooked chicken shredded (foodstoarge - 1 jar of chicken)

1 box of chicken broth (I use the wal-mart brand 16 oz)

1/4 cup chopped onion (use about 1 T of onion flakes - my family does not like onions)

1/2 cup of butter melted into broth

1 can of green chili's

Mix together - serve with homemade bread! Add to each bowl - shredded cheese & dab of sour cream

Left overs - I just put back into the canning jar

Soooo Yummy!

usury pass - love it

2010-01-16T17:15:00.000-08:00

Usury pass is such a great hike (in the winter). It's only 15 min. from the house. It's about 2 hours up & down. It's a nice quick fun hike on a Sat. morning. We are hoping to take a different kid with us each week and work our way into the whole family. It was beautiful! The weather couldn't have been more FANTASTIC!!! Anyone want to go - let me know!

Hmmm it's been quiet for awhile??

2010-01-04T09:03:00.000-08:00

The house was pretty quiet. I was cleaning upstairs - started to wonder what Rowdy is up too!

Polar Express - catch-up pics

2009-12-29T20:40:00.000-08:00

We changed our plans like - 3 times to go to Polar Express. We have gone several years and enjoy it so much. Last year we didn't go because Rowdy was an infant - but we knew this year he would LOVE santa! Sure enough - he enjoyed the snow, santa, bells, the train, the lights, the big bathtub in the hotel etc. . . . Everyone, and I mean everyone had a great time especially seeing it through Rowdy's eyes. Everyone wanted to be with Rowdy when Santa came through our car on the train. If you ever go - make sure you stop by "Black Bart's Steak House". It like a dinner theatre. Your kids will enjoy it. They sing Disney songs and song from broadway. The singers are really good! We kept requesting songs . . . they love the audience.

Going on the Polar Express makes Christmas Time magical!

Snow Pics

2009-12-27T13:11:00.001-08:00

Flag Football for Tucker (catch-up pics)

2009-12-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

Tucker loves FOOTBALL! His school played flag football. His team was in the championship. The best part was they went over to the Jr. High to play the game. It was a fun and friendly game. I know he enjoys being with his friends.

2010 Mutual Theme

2009-12-27T00:20:00.000-08:00

I LOVE this years mutual theme. Already we have had great discussions with our girls on how important it is to have courage to do the right thing. My sister-in-law is the Stake YW president and she wanted to me to make her stake a card to pass out. I want to share it with everyone. Feel Free to download HERE

This is a 5x7 JPEG . . . you can order from Costco (only Costco, other stores trim off too much)

Make sure you:

1) Check "as is" border (which is no border)

2) Check "luster" matte (glossy will leave fingerprints)

3) Click on 5x7 size, uncheck 4x6 which is the default for Costco

So Far Behind - Merry Christmas

2009-12-27T00:14:00.001-08:00

I just looked at the date of my last blog entry . . . I can't believe how far behind I am. I printed out last years blog on blog4print. I loved it!!!! I really wanted to make sure I never fall behind. It is such a great journal! Today I spent the whole time updating all my pics and getting them ready to upload.

Anyway - Christmas was great! I enjoyed this year so much! Merry Christmas. I appreciate so much the people in my life that uplift our family . . . uplift my children . . . .I appreciate so much the people in my life that want nothing but the best for us. Thank you so much!

Baylie's Birthday

2009-12-15T07:23:00.000-08:00

I was so busy in Dec. with cards and christmas . . . I didn't get a chance to blog about Baylie's birthday!

This was the LAST year I could pull of a "theme" oriented party that was somewhat girlish - but I couldn't pass it up. I knew the girls are at that stage where it's cheesy to have a party that's not about boys or the mall etc. . . I did take a chance to share with them that it's OK to be a girl still that they decide what's cool or not. I appreciated that they let down their gaurd and allowed themselves to have fun with it.

"Little House on the Prairie" musical had come out on Baylie's actual b-day. Since we have season tickets to the Gammage we thought it would be fun for Baylie to take a few friends to see the play.

Since I can't pass an opportunity to go all out for the event:

Invite:

This is what I wanted the invite to look like - but she changed her mind against the pic at the last minute:

We went to dinner to the Cracker Barrell for some old fashion dining. Baylie and I put together some treat bags with some "old-time" candy. It was so fun:

At every play they always have their fun merchandise. My kids always want a T-shirt or something to reminds of the play.

So I had my gread Step-Mom Marcia Clark sew up these really cute bonnets to give to all

the girls as well. Again, I know it was border-line with their age - but it was so fun to give them. They can always wear it for a trek when needed.

Saw the play & waited outside for "Melissa Gilbert" to come out and so we could get her autograph. She played the part of Ma. The play was surprisingly well done. It was a perfect Christmas play to have for Baylie's birthday.

This was my inspiration - I can't take credit - this gal had a pioneer party:

Microsoft Word Class

2009-11-14T21:39:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone I am teaching a MS Word class again at Poppy's on Thursday, November 19th @ 11:00. If you want to learn how to do a Christmas newsletter with pictures, Flyer for a boutique, or a great handout for your church class, Family Calendar etc. . . come to this class.

These are basics that EVERYONE should know. MS Word is the most universal program out there that is for Mac & PC!!!

Any questions or to reserve your spot call us at (480) 325-4900. The cost is $20 - this includes a CD with fonts, clipart, and lunch @ poppy's!! Come it will be great!

MCC T-birds - Shrine Bowl Champs! 20 Year Reunion

2009-11-09T10:07:00.000-08:00

This last weekend was the 20 year reunion for the MCC Football 1989 WSFL Shrine Bowl Champs - NJCAA National Champs runner-up! It was a pretty amazing year for those guys and it has been 20 years. Doug was pretty proud to be apart of this team. He had already been on a 2 year mission and came back and played with this AMAZING team!

We had the Caccicarne's come and stay with us and we had the whole weekend of celebration for these guys. The main part was at the MCC's homecoming game and they brought them out on the field and honored them at half-time. We had a chance to meet each other's family for those that have been out of town. I loved how Tucker & Will even played with their boys for a pick-me up game. We had a chance to hang out with some many of old friends it was so great! The weekend was thoroughly enjoyable. I love that Doug had a chance to be part of this event!

A bummer part of the great weekend was Doug had to end the week-end with his stupid "community service" for the game and fish ticket he receive the day he went hunting. (I think some of the guys had a BIG kick out of the Mormon boy having to do community service)

Greenfield JR & Gilbert High Marching Band

2009-11-08T07:49:00.000-08:00

Baylie plays percussion for Band. We had a chance to go and see her perform last week at the Sate Fair. Also, they joined the Gilbert High Marching Band at their game last friday night. She loves playing percussion - and was really impressed with Gilbert High!

Can anyone say Tony Robbins?

2009-11-06T12:07:00.000-08:00

State Fair is so fun! We had a chance to go because Baylie was playing in the Band that day. We decided it would be fun for all of us to go and watch her. Carson took some friends. The boys had a lot of fun playing on everything. One thing that is great about the fair - Wed is $1 day & if you read 3 books you get free rides. So we can do a lot that day for a lot of fun. Rowdy by the end of the day was having a hard time watching all the kids - he wanted so bad to get on a ride. One ride operator took pitty on him and let him get a chance. It was so cute. I could hear many people walk by and say "look at that baby on that ride" I kinda laughed - but I knew he could handle it.

At the fair there was a hypmatist comedian. My kids decided to go up there. IT was so funny to see them up there. Will actually looked like he was faking for awhile - but then I saw him get scared during one of the parts - then I got scared for him. Carson layed her head on the guy next to her. Baylie was funny. We let one of Carson's friends go up there too. Later on we found out that she was supposed too. We have the video - it's hilarious.

4th Grade Program

2009-11-02T13:40:00.000-08:00

Will's class at school was having their 4th grade music program. They had asked for people to sing parts. He signed up and came home and announced that he got the part. When the day before approached I asked him "Hey I haven't heard you sing or anything? Are you still doing the solo part?" He told me "I don't think so, because I don't sing in the microphone" "Why not?" "Because when I do, everyone can hear me sing" . . . "Well that's the point honey". I had to call the music teacher to find out if he was singing. So sure enough he had a part that he had NO IDEA it was going to be in front of everyone. My heart ached for him and the embarrassment that I knew he was feeling - - - BUTTTT!!! I could not be MORE PROUD of him for going through something that was incredibly hard because he committed to do it.

The song was"You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are grey, you'll never know dear how much I love you, so please don't take my sunshine away!" So we were driving in the car the day after and I was telling him how proud I was of him for doing his best!! I knew he was nervous. I started to cry - I told him there were no word to express how much I love him. He yes there is mom . . . my song. We both sang the song together.

FHE from Baylie

2009-11-02T13:16:00.000-08:00

Baylie has been working on her personal progress by giving Family Home Evening lessons on the "Proclamation to the World". There has been a few FHE where Doug and I have things that we have wanted to do with the family. Soooo she really wanted to make her lesson happen so she prepared her lesson and gave it last night! She is so GREAT! I just love her so much. It really made our night great!

Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T23:00:00.000-07:00

Halloween is always great in the Gooch Home - for one . . . it's Doug's birthday! We love our neighborhood during the fall. Everyone sits in their front year, and has their patio fire pits all lit. It's so fun to socialize and have friends and family come by to trick or treat. We usually have someone over to hang with us and help pass out candy. This year we had our friends Rex & Kailynn hang with their kids because they wen't in their new home yet. We also had Tracey O'neill over. We love Tracey. She is such a great friend to our family!! She is moving back to Scottland - we hope she gets back in time for Christmas.

Photo Announcements

2009-10-31T07:16:00.000-07:00

I am now taking orders for Holiday & Christmas cards. Check my site out for details and samples. My deadline for "Christmas Cards" is December 8th.

Click here for Link

Date Night

2009-10-30T19:53:00.000-07:00

Doug surprised me the other night with an already planned evening. We went to our usual "Gecko Grill" - but then he took me to the park for a "just us" reading a book together. We have already read 3 books together from the same author, so we are starting on his new book. We never seem to have the time to read together lately. I loved the peacefulness we had together - it was great!!

Go Gooch! Go Dawgs! & G3 Primary Program

2009-10-27T13:17:00.000-07:00

Tucker has been playing Tackle Football since Aug - and camp since July. It's been a fun season - but I am secretly hoping it's going to end soon. It has been a commitment - but worth it. I'm not going to bear my testimony of football or anything - but there is something to be said for the discipline that goes with sports. He has had to work hard for his position - and sometimes he works hard and doesn't start at all. He defiantly has to endure things to the end and do it well. I appreciate activities that my kids are involved in that teach these life lessons. -- GO DAWGS!

Primary Program

Also - we had our primary program in our ward this week. I love the primary program every year. I love feeling the sweet testimony's from all the adorable kids. Since our church is at 8:00 we have to do a lot to make sure we are on time (which is about 50%). I thought the boys did a great job! They also did a great job preparing the clothes the night before! I thought they looked great!

More Pics from UT

2009-10-21T14:14:00.001-07:00

Alpine - Box Elder

2009-10-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

We tried to hike to Timpanogas Cave - but it's closed during the week. So we wend up the other trails - soooo beautiful!

In our room - Rowdy poses for the camera!!

Love last minute vacations!

2009-10-12T10:05:00.000-07:00

We decided to take off on Thursday for Friday to SLC, Utah. There is much to do and see in Utah for us and we never seem to have enough time to sight see because we have a lot of friends and family to visit. This time we decided to to and sight see only and have a great time.

We have been excited that Carson & Chelsea are in the new Mark Mabry exhibit "Another testimont of Christ" We found out that the exhibit was at Joseph Smith Memorial building. Doug and the rest of the family haven't seen the exhibit yet, so it was really rewarding to go and see that exhibit before it moved on to the next destination. The entire exhibit is AMAZING!!!! The guy that did all the photoshop on it was there explaining some of the details of the project - really special. I love all the pictures. You can visually see how amazing our Savior is in the pictures. For more information on the pictures click HERE

We have had a ton of fun - loving spending time with just us!!! We needed a vacation where we could just hand with our little family!

My Husband is a Criminal!!

2009-10-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

When Doug went hunting . . . he got a ticket!!! Doug was checking out a gun that belonged to our Nephew. It was not a legal gun for that kind of hunting on that day. Doug fired off a few rounds just to see if the gun was worth buying for a different kind of hunt. A game ranger was watching them and immediately came over and gave Doug a ticket for firing that kind of gun to close to homes. It was such a bummer because they were already packing up to leave.

So just this week Doug had to go to court to see the Judge regarding the ticket. Doug was hoping to explain that it was a simple mistake but . . . .it ended up being a criminal offense - $500 - the judge dropped it down to $300 with 10 hours of community service!!!! He committed a crime. Sooooo my husband is a criminal now! Doug has decided to NOT buy that kind of gun! :)

GO D E V I L S!!! -- We love our season ticket seats!!! We sit with the whole Gooch family!! We are in the south end zone. Doug grew up in those seats with his Dad. It's been fun to keep the tradition going!! If anyone goes to the game stop by and say "Hi". We sit on the top row in the 38th section. It's so nice not having anyone behind us. People yell at us from below to say hi. You can stand up the whole game if you want. The re-play screen is right behind us - so we have a great view of everything. Last week I lost my shoe (flip-flop) over the edge. I was soooo embarrassed. I had to walk out of the game with only one shoe - it was a BIG and I mean BIG laugh for Doug - I still haven't lived it down with him.

Leagally Blonde!

2009-10-01T15:44:00.000-07:00

Legally Blonde was last week . . . and I had the chance to go twice. Once with friends and the other with family. I can not stop singing the songs. I have been playing the soundtrack all week. It was a great show. I love it more then the movie. I love when lyrics are so clever!

Opening Day of Dove Hunting

2009-09-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

Every year Doug and the boys get a chance to go hunting with "Grand-pa Gooch". This year Bryce got to go with them too! They had a ton of fun. Will was Bryce's buddy. I know my boys are missing school to do this - but these are memories that you can't try to go back and get. This year's memory . . . Dad getting a ticket for firing an illegal gun. He had to give back all his catch to the Ranger. I'm so glad because I do not like to eat Dove. - ha ha

2009-09-21T23:44:00.000-07:00

Check out my "niece-in-law?" blog - so adorable!!

Carson's Sweet 16

2009-09-20T16:31:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that my oldest has turned 16. She is an amazing person to me. It's so fascinating how much she has grown into a wonderful young woman. 16 things I love about Carson is:
1. She is my right hand man - I don't think I can accomplish anything with out my help of Carson!
2. She is a great book reader - she can read any book in about a day or two, given the time. I thinks she would rather read over anything. I have read many books because of her. I would love to be the mom that reads books then approves them so she can read them -- but she out reads me, so unfortunately she gets to them first. I am pleasantly surprised by her choices in book material. A few times we'll have discussions about weather or not we approve or not etc. . .
3. She has great taste in clothes - I love that I can borrow her clothes.
4. She has big dreams - She wants to be everything when she grows up - I love it!
5. She has a hearty laugh! She finds most things funny and she'll give a big chuckle that's contagious.
6. She is artistic. She can draw really good. I have several drawings to prove how great she is. Currently she is taking clay and I can't wait to see what she creates.
7. She can be an air-head. Toe-ha ha
8. We wear the same size shoe - enough said, double shoes!
9. She is a good story teller, she is a good writer.
10. She is a GREAT and I mean GREAT worker. She works hard til the job is done. I love that she understands how important this is.
11. She is a good hair dresser. She knows how to fix hair.
12. She has a beautiful testimony. I love that she really understands the purpose of things. She may not always think life is fair - but she overall understands why things are the way they are.
13. She is a great babysitter. She knows how to gain control of the situation with a loving touch.
14. She is athletic. Cheer has paid off. She can probably outrun everyone in our family! She is the one to help Doug move furniture!
15. She is smart. She has better grammer then I do.
16. She is outgoing!! She's not afraid to speak in public, stand up for what she believes in, She knows who she is!

I JUST LOVE CARSON!

Happy Birthday Rowdy

2009-09-02T08:46:00.000-07:00

We just celebrated Rowdy's birthday! We love him so much. I don't know what we would do without our little joy that has come to our home 2 years ago. Rowdy has about 6 parents in the home. Everyone pitches in and takes care of him. He has been really lovin basketballs lately . . . so of course his B-day was all about Basketballs!

Meet "Dodger"

2009-09-01T22:15:00.001-07:00

I actually can't even believe we did it! We were at the Temple on Sat. On our way home there was a sign that said "Puppies for Sale". We stopped and bought a puppy! I know little to nothing about training a dog . . . so we are training each other.

We had talked a few times about getting one. Rowdy has been really lonely since the kids have gone back to school. We knew he could use a full time play mate!

We think he has to be the most adorable little dog ever, he almost looks fake. He looks like a stuffed animal. Part miniture poodle & cockapoo = adorable!!!

Anyway meet "Dodger"

Arrow of Light

2009-09-01T11:52:00.000-07:00

So proud of Tucker! He worked hard on getting his "Arrow of Light". Our troop didn't do so great about making sure they could have den meeting. There were only 3 boys in the troop. Tucker and another boy had sport stuff - not that is more important. But I really felt like they could have changed the night to accomidate the small group. The 3rd boy did get to go at all because he couldn't go to the den meeting alone. Soooo needless to say, spite the discouragement from this - Tucker still worked hard at scouts on his own . . . and he got his "Arrow of Light"

Camp Del Corazon - "Heart" camp

2009-08-28T12:27:00.000-07:00

We just sent will off to Heart Camp for 5 days. I am totally missing him. I know he is having fun . . . but I am still missing him.

He left with 40 other kids from Arizona to go to Catalina Island for Camp Del Corazon! It is a wonderful camp for kids with Heart Defects just like Will. He is in the most capable hands . . . all the nurses and doctors that already know him. Other Heart parents that volunteer for this camp. I know so many of the people that I know he is OK.

I used to be so involved with the support group and the Heart Center at PCH i.e. raising money, volunteering. Aprox. 5 years ago I had to pull away from every thing if I was ever going survive the emotional impact of everything.

I am so grateful Will has pulled through much of the worst part of his defect. Many of the kids have passed on. I'm not sure why some have survived and others not . . . but I know Will has a reason to be here. I love him so much.

The day ended up being an emotional day. Sending Will off then attending Ethan's Skidmore funeral. The funeral was done very special. Heidi handled everything with such class - I totally admire her for being such a brave person. Greg is a great dad! My hat's off to them and everything they went through. My hats off to Ethan for being a brave little boy!

Just a quick Shout out - Thanks to the Nick & Kelly Heart Fund for funding all of these kids and paying for them and their transportation to the camp! I appreciate it sooo much. I know Will does too. Every year they have a big Golf Tournament and silent auction to help pay for things like this. If anyone ever has things they can donate for this event, let me know. I want badly to be able to help with this as a token of our appreciation!

"Out of Africa" Wild Animal Park! Grrrrrr

2009-08-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

We had the opportunity to go to the "Out of Africa" animal park up in Camp Verde this last weekend. It was the most amazing Zoo or experience we could have with animals I HIGHLY . . . I mean HIGHLY recommend you get a chance to go. We had so many hands on experiences that it was so enjoyable.

Check out their Site CLICK HERE

Carson had a friend that just moved from Utah to Prescott. Their grand-parents own the park. We have been wanting a chance to go . . . so why not now??

Just Carson, Will, Rowdy, and I went up there. Tucker had a scrimmage game . . . so Doug stayed back with him.

We want to go back with everyone so bad - Prescott was so beautiful.

These animals actually would walk up to the bus that we were on. We could feed them. They would take food right from our hands. WE were not allowed to feed the Zebras - I guess they are really violent. But the other animals were fun. Rowdy loved it sooo much!

The Giraffe would not come over to our side - oh well . . . it still was amazing!

This majestic animal was lazily resting on his house. how he got up there? They said it's not often that he is up there. It was kinda intimidating to go over to him. he was barely 3 feet away from us. It seemed like if he really wanted to he could just leap over to you. YIKES!

We were late for the "Tiger Splash" and in our efforts to get their we were running. Both Carson and Will were wearing bright colors. It attracted this animals attention because we were running by it. It leaped at us and growled loud at us - it frightened all of us. But it was worth it!

The "Tiger Splash" One of a kind show!! No where else in the WORLD! do they have a show like this. They play with them and get them to jump in the water, chase balloons, play with each other. The difference??? Many shows try to get tigers to be like humans. This show gets them to be tigers - encourages different instants that they have (mildly) but still - I was taken away with how entertaining this show was.

It was a rainy day - the tigers were a little more aggressive then usual - it was so fun!

A couple of times the tigers tried to attack the owner. he totally knew how to push them away and get them to think about something else. It was remarkable and scary at the same time.

There a few times the tigers would pace back and forth and follow Rowdy - I didn't like that they were looking at him like he was food.

They actually had the chance to feed them raw meat!

Carson's friend Christian

They day was so pleasn't. It rained for about 10 min straight - when I say rain I mean POURED!!! It actually was so fun - we had never been caught in a desert storm like that before. IT made the day memorable!

Summer in Carlsbad - 4th of july

2009-08-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

We had a great summer this year. But starting off - my computer crashed!!! Such a bummer - I lost so many pictures. Thanks to blogging - I still have some of the pics, but low res, oh well! I'm still recovering from it. But new memories have come and I have been wanting to update for awhile - it's been awhile!

California - Carlsbad - 4th of July!

It's always fun to have friends at the beach too! Carson's friend Ashley's family has a condo over in Carlslbad and they are they are there for the summer. So we always make sure we hang with them for a day or two.

These kids body surfed their heart out! They could not get enough of the fun!

We just laugh at Carson so much and her verbal "fo-paws". She can be such an airhead at pronunciating things. Intead of saying "Tahoe" she would say "Toe - ha" We laugh. So now when she says something so silly we will all laugh and say "Toe - ha ha ha ha". While at the outlets she said mom, I recognise that story "oooosh Kooosh" . . . . toe ha ha ha ha!

Palmyra, NY Trip - Part I

2009-08-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

We took a trip back east to Palmyra, NY. We have been wanting to go back there for a long time. My parents are on a LDS mission there, this will be their last summer so we went back there to visit with them.

I highly suggest anyone who is going on this trip to buy the book "The LDS Family Travel Guide - Palmyra" Soooo good. I had done a ton of planning on my own - but this book really gave us so many good tips.

We went backwards and traveled to Kirkland, OH first. We knew the Palmyra Pageant was going on at the time, we wanted to go towards the end of the pageant to avoid all of the crowds.

Kirkland, OH

After we left Kirkland, we headed for Niagara Falls in Canada. On our way we drove by Lake Erie. We had a quick stop off - it was so beautiful. We had never seen any of the Great lakes before. It was a fun impromptu visit! I love moments like that , were you can just feel the love that we had for each other - having great fun!

Palmyra, NY Trip - Part II

2009-08-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

Butterfly Sanctuary

One of our stops on the Niagara Falls Tour was this Butterfly Sanctuary - it was AMAZING. Butterflies would fly right up to you and land on your solider We had a wonderful time. We wanted to stay longer, but the tour had to leave.

Skylon Tower

Palmyra, NY Trip - Part III

2009-08-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

Palmyra - It was fun to go and surprise my parents. They are LDS missionaries in Palmyra, NY. They work all the historic sites. During pageant time they rotate around at all the different sites. We found out where they were and went in to hear them in action. They seem to be having so much fun. We are really proud of them.! It was fun to be there with cousins etc. . .

Elder & Sister Clark

One thing that was so fun - my parents apartment is right next to the Sacred Grove. At night my kids would go and hunt for Fireflies, collect other bugs. Our night BBQ had the wonderful view of the Grove & Farm - it was so wonderful!

Pageant
Pageant was amazing. We went both nights Fri & Sat . . . and were able to sit front row (thanks to Grandma Clark). It wasw impressive. My kids enjoyed meeting the cast. There are over 700 members in this Cast. WE were so impressed with some of the YM that were in the cast. They are waiting to go on their missions and this is what they chose to do for the summer - there is hope for good YM for my daughters to marry - ha ha.

During the day @ Hill Cumorah

Down Town & Whitmer Farm

The best Pizza ever! Namoni's Pizza

This Menonite Store was so fun - we bought a ton of fun cookies, bread, honey etc. . .

Baptisms for the Dead in the Palmyra temple was so special. It was the first time I had done them in a long time, and I got to do them with our girls. The temple workers were amazing, full of inspirational stories - we really felt the spirit that day. Palmyra Temple is the ONLY temple that has a clear window. Pres. Hinkley wanted the the window to be clear so you could have a view of the Sacred Grove.

Doug and I did some work before the girls came over. They were kinda late - we were starting to get worried. All the time they were outside with Grandpa getting their picture taken - not bad pics gramps!

Our last day in Palmyra was on a Tuesday. The pageant was over. It was a rainy day so there were not much visitors. Dad & Marcia were able to personally take us through the farm and show us how special that place is. It was so nice to have a one on one with them. Take extra time etc. . .

Pittsburg

We flew out of Pittsburg and drove up to Ohio into NY and back again. It was a non-stop flight that made it easier for Rowdy to fly. It was nice way to pack it all in.

The city was beautiful "The City of Rivers"!

Rowdy's swim lesson

2009-06-28T20:16:00.001-07:00

We have been having soo much fun with swim this summer - Rowdy does not cry - I love it . . . but he WILL NOT stay on the step like he is supposed too - he he - can't win them all!

Will & Tucker's Birthday Bash

2009-05-26T10:13:00.000-07:00

We combined Tucker & Will's birthday this year. We ALWAYS seem to be out of town on Tucker's birthday . . . and/or his friends are gone - he really has been wanting a big party - so we had it combined with Will's.

We rented Brimhall pool to accommodate big family, friends for both kids - it was a ton of fun! It was memorial weekend - they're were quite a few that still were out of town (thank goodness . . . we had a great turnout!)

SChOooools Out for Summer! & TALYOR SWIFT

2009-05-26T09:49:00.006-07:00

I love having my kids home - I'm glad that school is finally out!

We lucked out and had the chance to pick-up Taylor Swift tickets because another family didn't realize that it was graduation night and their son was graduating - so took Carson and a friend. She took one of her best friends - Kassidy. So far I just love Taylor Swift for our girls (and me) She is such an adorable entertainer.

Westgate area is soooo beautiful. They have many top restaurants, shopping, movie theatres, water fountain shows at the Jobing.com arena. Doug and I took the girls and hung out - it was fun.

Will & Baseball!

2009-05-17T23:47:00.001-07:00

The season is over for Will - they had a good run. They were fourth in the player pool. They had won their game 10 -4. There was one minute left in the game. The OD told them to play one more inning. The other team came back and won - so now they are out - it was a BUMMER in the end. But . . . I'm glad to have one less practice, game etc. . . to go to - because it is getting HOT!!! Will was really into baseball this season. I think he has found his sport. We really like our boys to try everything and have fun trying different activities. However with Will he is so limited what he can do with his heart. There are so many sports that can't play - the fact that He did really well this year and wanted for himself is exciting to see him grow.

Things I loved about Will & Baseball:

1 - He is a great catcher! He's not afraid of the ball coming to him, and he seem's comfortable in that position.

2 - You can tell he thinks he is cool when he is up to bat. (Tucker concentrates soooo hard to play well - at times he doesn't look relaxed. . . Will doesn't even care what he is doing - he really is having fun)

3 - One time Will was at the plate waiting for a good pitch. A helicopter flew by - he actually started to watch it instead of playing, he was called a strike because he was so busy looking at the sky - soooo funny!!!

4 - As much as he can get distracted, when he is concentrating . . . he really is starting to understand the game and knows where the next play is.

5 - He never can find his cleats when we need them (I love it now that the season is over)

6 - He has had the same number for the last 4 years - #8 - I'm not sure if he will be able to handle another number. He is becoming possessive!

7 - He is always wanting snacks from the snack bar. My boys live to go and buy things on their own there. Snow cones, nacho's, candy etc. . .

8 - It was fun to see how much he has grown. His pants were not so short or tight at the beginning of the season - he has outgrown them.

9 - He had a lot of friends on the team this year that he knew from school - it made it worth it!

Tender Moments!

2009-05-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

Today . . . Rowdy was being so cute! I had someone stop by the house for some work. Rowdy just keep being so cute and he started to get really worked up. After the gal left, he was running really fast and fell. He was crying. I went over to him and picked him up and hugged him in the hallway. We have this really great Christ picture by Del Parson's that we bought through Raymond Designs. Rowdy saw the picture and IMMEDIATELY stopped crying. He pointed to Christ and started to laugh, smile, and giggle. He touched the picture of Christ and kept saying something that I couldn't understand but it was clear that he knew what he was saying. . . . I could feel a piece of heaven in my home at that moment. I could feel the love that our Savior had for my son. It felt even better then if it had been for me . . . because I love my son, and it feels so good to have someone else see their potential and greatness that I see. I appreciated that tender moment that I had with my son, who is a child of God. I loved how inherently Rowdy knew who is his Savior who loves him.

Women's Conference

2009-05-05T00:39:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to go to women's conference again. I just love all the classes they offer. I feel so uplifted. I know everything they say are thing that I do know . . . but there is something about getting a full dose for 2 whole days that really makes an impact. I had such a great time with friends. I really enjoy going with great women that enjoy the same things that I do!!! We all have such silly fun!

Easter Fun!

2009-04-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

We had a relaxing weekend - much needed. We met with the Big Gooch family for the fun "easter egg hunt" I like getting this over on Sat. So Sunday we can concentrate more on the Atonement. We had a picnic in the front yard and hung out all day! It was great!

Life is Tough - I'll doubt I'll make it out alive!

2009-04-10T13:57:00.000-07:00

Another good read by Doug's cousin Stacey Gooch Anderson. We really have come to enjoy Stacey's writings. First of all her son is my daughter's best friend. Their family is so fun and down to earth - they are a great model of how to just laugh at life! Also, Carson adores Stacey. Carson loves to read and someday . . . (now this is probably on of 100 dreams and goals) would like to become a writer. She loves to pick Stacey's brain and know how everything comes together. So when this book came, Carson and I had to fight who was to read first. Great Mother's day gift!

Disneyland

2009-04-09T22:43:00.000-07:00

This week I had a chance to take off for a few days and meet one a my great friends Carolyn. We met at Disneyland and took our kids around for a few days. I only took Baylie and Will - they are the younger of each gender and sometimes I think that the older kids seem to get more attention. Not on purpose - but they have stronger personalities - it just naturally seems that way. So I really wanted to them to know how important they are to me and give them my undivided attention. We had a great time. Hanging with the Garrik kids was so fun too! They are such darling kids - all them hung out so well! It was wonderful to hang with such a wonderful friend that ALWAYS makes me feel good about myself! Thanks Carolyn for being a great friend and always giving me the boost & support I need!!!

Tradition to buy "Mickey" bread!

Baseball Season GALL

2009-04-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

We just had Tucker's opening day for baseball - it was so fun to have it at the "Field of Dreams!"

It's fun having both Doug and Tucker out there - they have the same stance - I often would look down into the dug-out and see them with the same mannerisms it was great.

Last minute coaching from coach dad, before he bats!

Keep your eye on the ball!

I love how they teach the guys how to steal a base - he came in and stole home!

I love this picture - we are going to make a poster out of this!

Red Soxs

They didn't win - he doesn't look to happy does he. They didn't do so bad for their first game. Bummer - some one has to lose right?

But at least they had good sportsmanship - "Good Game!"

Blog Header

2009-03-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

Also, you can see I have been tweaking my blog codes - so many times you will see it all whaked out - It's a work in process . . . it's been fun editing it - but blogger is also sensitive! So humor me when you come to my page and it's SCARY!

Need Addresses

2009-03-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

K EVERYONE! - as you can see - I changed my background and lost my blog roll - can you leave me your blog address - so I can re-add it to my page!! Thanks a bunch!

Family Picture

2009-03-25T19:22:00.000-07:00

I am the worst at taking a formal family picture - so finally we are getting a big family picture framed. Probably the first ever. I have several snapshots of family pics in little frames but never one that actually hung on the wall - I know, I don't know why!!

Latest Happenings!

2009-03-15T19:54:00.000-07:00

A ton of things are always happening - I love the craziness of it all! So I realized I need to catch up some of the day to day things!

We got to have "josh" come down from Utah for a hockey Tournament. It was a ton of fun to have him here - my kids think he is a celebratiy. He is so funny - we were able to catch a few games. My oldest daughter hung out with the team - she getting to know all the hockey terms. It was fun to see her call out things. My boys enjoy the fights (mostly my big one - Doug).

Josh really knows how to ham it up !

This is what I get if I leave the room for a minute - Rowdy crawled up and got on my comp. He really looked like he knew what he was doing.

These little glitter balls are the new craze. I think it is funny, because I chose not to buy my boys these balls because I thought for sure they wouldn't want them because they were glitter/girly - But Doug got them for the boys and they take them to school - hmmmnnn just to show you you never know?

Rowdy really just tries to do everything that everyone else does.

My oh my - who is having more fun - the scout leader or the boys?? Hmmmnnn

18 years and still Married!

2009-03-13T12:58:00.000-07:00

Doug and I will be celebrating our 18th anniversary!! Some days it seems like we just were married and then it seems like so far away.

18 things I love about Doug!

1. He is the biggest Goof - funny, he makes me laugh!

2. He is a GREAT and I mean GREAT Dad! I love him a ton just for this!!!!!! He has always helped with parenting.

3. I love how he gets along with everyone. He is such even key - not much frazzles him - I love how he calms the boat (I rock it).

4. He can quote any stat about any sport out there - but for some reason can not remember what I said 5 min. ago - believe it or not I do think this is funny.

5. He has a great family! I love the Gooches!

6. When we wrestle he could easily over power me - but he lets me win every time.

7. He doesn't get mad at me to often - and there are times he should (after a trip to Buckle or the Apple store)

8. We both love baseball - and love to eat hot dogs watching a good game.

9. He is the worst fix up guy - he really needs a handyman to help him epoxy anything!

10. He is VERY organized and neat - I think it's a result of being first born - I, on the other hand am the baby and I'm really messy! One time I had shoes all over the front entry way. he lined them up, making them walk back to the closet - ha ha

11. We both love the same music - from Cold Play, Simple Plan, Areo Smith all the way to Taylor Swift and Avril Levine.

12. We both love to quad ride together, camp, ride bikes.

13. He's has a great "green thumb". Our flowers look good ALL year - and that's hard to do in AZ.

14. We both love going to the movies together.

15. He loves to be outdoors and doesn't mind that I love to be indoors.

16. I love to watch him play ball - any ball - Football, Softball, B-ball, sometimes I'll see him laughing away out there. (I am glad the the punk competitive days are over, ha ha - but good times with Lavender and the Gooch brothers!)

17. He's a great coach for our boys for any sport their involved with.

18. He the one guy I feel safe with - and I LOVE him for that!!!

Love ya Babe!

Spring Training

2009-03-08T21:17:00.000-07:00

Love Spring Training - Doug and I will hopefully some day go down to Tampa and catch some games there. But for now -- we hit a Cubs game last week. Perfect weather, sat behind home plate with a bunch of die hard Cub fans - it was great!

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

My New favorite site!! I have been trying real hard to get back caught up with food storage. We used to have it all a few years ago, but we have been using it (like we should). But Doug and I really want to BEEF it up major - so check out this site - SOOOO FUN!!!!

Every Day Food Storage