The Horse Heads

We love the Jazz!

2012-02-04T15:57:00.000-07:00

Once again we are sharing Jazz tickets with my family this year. Despite the late start to the season it has still been fun. We got to go to the autograph signing party this year. It was so fun to see and meet some of the players. Big Al was our favorite. He was high-fiving the boys and laughing about how small Adam was compared to how big he was. When we walked up he says to Adam, "hey there little man!" He was very nice. We also got to meet Raja Bell, Earl Watson, Jeremy Evans, and Paul Millsap. I made sure I walked upstairs to look at Gordon, even though we didn't have time to wait in his line to meet him. The boys were so excited to go and to be honest so was I. I very rarely get to meet anyone who is famous...unless they work with Ben in politics. No one that I really want to meet. It was a fun night!


Waiting in line. We are so excitedy! (As Adam says it)


Big Al teasing Adam about how small his shirt was. I told him it might fit on one of his arms.

Raja signing Noah's shirt. He is very handsome! Raja too :)

Just hanging and chillin' with my buddies Earl, and Jeremy. No biggy!

Ben with Earl

My favorite things 2011 Edition

2012-01-25T12:29:00.000-07:00

My Favorite Things #1

I know this is a long time in the waiting, but we are back online so here it is...my favorite thing #1 for 2011 is my family.

Once again, it may seem lame, but it is true. I am so very blessed to have a wonderful and supportive husband. He is my best friend and I know he thinks I'm okay too. He is a wonderful father. Speaking of children, I think all the time about how lucky I am to be able to have these four special boys in my life, and how great they are. I love each one of them for very different reasons. They all bless my life and make me happy everyday. I feel like they are all in our family for a purpose, and I love finding out what those purposes are.

Ben and my parents and siblings all teach me something different and I love them all for their individual lives, goals, and true concern for us. I enjoy living life with all of the people in my family.

2011 was a great year for our family, and I can't wait to find out what is in store for us in 2012!

Comcast and I are in a fight

2012-01-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

I know you are all waiting for my favorite thing #1, but due to Comcast being idiots we are without Internet until January 26th. I am posting from Ben's phone. It is annoying, but it is what it is. Hear from me again in a couple of weeks. "SIGH!"

My favorite things 2011 Edition

2012-01-11T22:14:00.001-07:00

My Favorite Thing #2 is my amazing home and neighborhood!

We have lived here for just over a year and I fall more and more in love with my house everyday. If I wasn't already married to Ben I'd marry my house. It has been fun to update it as much as we have been able to. It has been fun to make memories, spend holidays, have the room to have family over, and just enjoy the space. So great!

I swear that we live in the best area ever. We are very blessed to live in an amazing ward and neighborhood. There are so many good families and kids for our boys to play with. Our neighbors take good care of us and we feel very loved and safe here. It is a great feeling to know that we are putting down roots and raising our family in the right place.

My favorite things 2011 Edition

2012-01-11T21:45:00.002-07:00

My favorite thing #3 is COUPONS!!

I have to say I am a bit of an addict! I love to save money and get a good deal. I am not an extreme couponer by any means, but I save a good bit of money, and use that money to build up a good storage of food. It is really exciting to be able to save 20%, or 30% off my bill. That is where most of my trips to the store were at because Utah doesn't double coupons. It is hard to save much more than that, but I will take what I can get. My goal for 2011 was to save 50% at the store. I did it once, and only once. I have big plans for 2012, and hopefully I can keep progressing in this hobby because I love it!

Hello all my adoring fans

2012-01-10T22:15:00.001-07:00

Guest blogger Josh here. It is good to be with you this evening. I am finishing up my 1st birthday and I wanted to tell you all how the day went. My mom was so nice to me today. Everyone else was unusually nice today too. I guess this birthday thing is a big deal. Everywhere we went people kept smiling and getting in my face to say, "Happy Birthday!" Or, "you are so big, cute, smiley, etc." you get the picture. I still don't get it.

This morning I got to sleep in until after 10. Mom says I am lucky because no one bothers me when I sleep. They just let me sleep. I had my favorite breakfast of milk, bananas, and Chex. Then I talked with my mom about what I wanted to do today to celebrate. I told her that I didn't really care as long as I got to be with her, because she is my favorite person. (At least for now, maybe not in a few years) She said that if it were her birthday she would want to stay in her pajamas all day. So, I went with it and that's what I did. I didn't get dressed all day. It was awesome because I don't like to change my clothes. I cry and wiggle a lot. Maybe that's why mom left me in my pajamas...hmmm.
Anyway, I really didn't want to go to any stores today, they make me cranky so mom took me to eat french fries and play at Carls Jr. It was the first time my mom let me actually go in the playland. So, much fun. If you haven't tried it before I think you should. I laughed and laughed at nothing, and enjoyed myself a lot.

We came home and took a nap after lunch. It was so great. I took a long nap and no one bothered me. When I got up we did some everyday boring things like pick up the bros. from school, homework, and chores. I didn't help much with that because it's my special day. Come to think of it, I never help much anyway.

Then mom started dinner and she let me help. We ate homemade chicken noodle soup. I love chicken, carrots, peas, and noodles. They were all in the soup. Oh yeah, and crackers! Can you say Heaven?! Then for dessert because I already ate my cake on Sunday with the family I got a handful of M&M's. All I have to say is you have all been holding out on me...chocolate is awesome!

Then of course I had to take a long bath because I was covered in chocolate. I love the bath and I got to play with my new bath toys. Thanks Aunt Mel!

Lastly, we watched a movie and ate popcorn. I love popcorn, hey, does anyone else notice that I am happiest when I am eating or sleeping? I had a great birthday! I am so happy to be with my family because they love me so much. My dad always tells me that I am the cutest of all his babies. I'd have to agree. Thanks for reading my post. I just had to share how special I felt today. BEST DAY EVER!!! On to the next year!

My favorite things 2011 Edition

2012-01-10T21:52:00.001-07:00

Wow! I am not doing so well at posting every day for this top 10 list. It's taking more like 15 days than 10. So...I am posting my favorite thing #5 and #4 in the same post to get this done!

Favorite thing #5 is Plants vs. Zombies.
I know that seems lame, but have you ever played this game? Highly addicting. I think that it is something that I love because I hate the idea of zombies, and in every movie you watch there is no hope of survival. But, in this game you can beat the zombies. You can use the power of the sun and plants to stop the zombies from eating your brains. It's awesome! Download it and play it today.

My favorite thing #4 is.....ibuprofen. Once again, it may sound lame, but between having a baby in January, breaking my foot in June, and all the recovery, pain, and headaches in between; ibuprofen has been one of my best friends this year. It isn't something new that I discovered, but it is a favorite.

Thank you to that wonderful pink pill.

My favorite things 2011 Edition

2012-01-08T00:06:00.000-07:00

My Favorite thing #6 is Chris Rice.

I found him through Pandora, and he's my new favorite. He has a lot of music, but my favorite album that he has is his Living Room Sessions. It is piano solo music of Hymns. I just love piano music and his is great. Some of it soothing and inspiring, and other songs are upbeat and fun. He also sings more pop like Christian music as well, that I enjoy but I truly love the piano solos. Among them are Be Still my Soul, Come Thou Fount, and How Great Thou Art. Check him out at Chrisrice.com.

I added one of his songs to my playlist so you can enjoy a sample of his music here.

My favorite things 2011 Edition - Day 4

2012-01-06T10:06:00.000-07:00

My favorite things #7 is...

The Hunger Games trilogy is by far my favorite series of the year. Anyone who knows me knows that I don't like to read at all, but I read all three of these books, and I loved them all. They are exciting, eerie, suspenseful, and intriguing. while reading books like this I can't help but say to myself...who thinks up stuff like this? I am just not that creative to think of and develop even a simple plot let alone one like this. They are kind of graphic, but if you can handle it you should read them. When I was in about chapter 3 of the first book I remember saying to Ben, "this would make a great movie!"I am apparently very psychic because they are coming, and I can't wait for March. I am going to read them again before the movies. They are my favorite books for the year 2011.

My favorite things 2011 Edition - Day 3

2012-01-04T07:00:00.003-07:00

My favorite things #8 theme is life's simple pleasures!

Some days I am running around so much and I feel so used and abused by all the boys, chores, driving, homework, play dates, diapers, naps, and sheer chaos that all I need is a simple pleasure.

My favorite simple pleasures for 2011 is none other than...

and...

These two small delights keep me ticking if I need a little love in a can or package. I love vanilla coke, but can't bring myself to drink my calories. So I started drinking coke zero because it tasted less harsh than diet coke. Then they brought out coke zero vanilla, and it was true love. I am not a huge peanut butter in my candy fan, but these little gems cannot be denied. They are delicious! They have truly been my life line some days. It brings me pure and simple joy to hear that tab pop open, or that bag rip. It's simple, and it is my favorite!

My favorite things 2011 Edition - Day 2

2012-01-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

One of my all time favorite things to do is to eat out. Ever since I got my first job at McDonalds, I not only loved to eat there on my break, but anywhere I could go to try something new. It's hard with kids to eat anywhere but McDonalds, but I try my hardest. Eating out has it's own category in my budget, and I always include it on date night.

My Favorite thing # 9
Restaurants, Restaurants, Restaurants!

I want to express appreciation for my long time favorite and my new favorite of 2011.
My long time favorite is Corbins Grill. They have delicious steak and seafood! I also love their mushroom risotto, it is a creamy delicious sin that will leave you feeling guilty for eating the whole plate. They offer cooking classes that I hope to someday take part in. So great!

My new favorite place is Cantina Southwestern Grill. There is only one location and there defiantly should be more locations. I love cheap Mexican food, but I feel that in the last 10 years or so all the places that I used to love are not so great anymore. This place is awesome! It has meat that doesn't taste like it has last weeks leftovers that have been reheated 7 times. It has wonderful customer service. My very favorite thing about it is the chips and salsa bar. WHAT? That's right they have 9 different home made salsas, my favorite being the avocado cilantro, and a chip warmer full of warm chips that you can help yourself to as many as you want. It is wonderful! If anyone wants to try it I will be happy to go with you!

My Favorite Things 2011 Edition

2012-01-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

I know I am late, but since it is the official first day of the year according to the feds I can start my top 10 favorite things list for 2011 today. I wasn't on top of it enough to do this at the end of the year so I am doing it now. So, without further ado, here it is...

Heidi's Favorite things: #10

Pandora baby! As all of you know I am not very technically savvy. I am sure that I am a few years behind discovering Pandora, but 2011 is the year. I have discovered it, and I love it. It is amazing to me that an internet radio station can recognize what I like to listen to and give me other songs that I may enjoy. I have discovered a lot of songs that I love and may otherwise never have heard. It is a great discovery for me, and I love it!

Merry Christmas to the Horsleys!

2011-12-29T13:15:00.000-07:00

This year was one of the best Christmases that we have ever had. We enjoyed the 3 days of Christmas with family. Christmas Adam with Ben's family was very good. Ben's mom worked really hard to make it a great evening. She planned a great meal, a luminary activity, 12 days of Christmas, and gifts for everyone. It was a great night.

We always go to my parents house for Christmas Eve for our "Festival of Foods" which we did this year. It was the best food we have had in a long time. We had crepes (sweet and savory), Chicken Tiki Masala, Southwestern Eggrolls, Sushi, Summer sausage with cheese and crackers, Brazilian cheese balls, and so many other yummy things. Ben even made homemade Lasagna with pork and bacon sausage. It was really good, I will admit I was surprised. Let's just say, he doesn't cook much. We usually spend the night so my parents can watch the kids in the morning, but as not to overwhelm my poor mom this year we went home. Christmas morning with just us was great! I really enjoyed just doing our own thing.

Adam got a turtle and named him Melman...although we still don't know if it's a boy or girl.

Noah woke Ben and I up at 7, but none of the other kids were awake so we took him down by himself. This is him and I waiting for Ben to get the camera ready.

Jo Jo loved all the toys, boxes, wrapping paper, and bows everywhere. He was so busy all day long because we didn't clean any of it up.

Noah and his stash!

Seth with his loot!

My favorite gift was this book. Ben took my blog and printed it in a book for me. It was wonderful!

Jo Jo got a blow up car ball pit toy. Everyone is loving it!

I didn't think I would enjoy going to church on Christmas, but it added something special to the day. We are so blessed, and it was a great day to celebrate our Savior's birth and remember all that he has done for and given us.

To poo or not to poo? That is the question.

2011-12-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

As all you moms out there know potty training is a hard time of life on a kid and a mom. Mostly the mom, because it's one thing that you have absolutely no control of. You can provide stickers, charts, candy, promises of toys, and dinners out, visits to parks, play lands, grandmas house, the list goes on and on, but you cannot do it for them.

For the kid because I can only imagine they are thinking, "you want me to what?" "I don't think so mom." "That just confirms that you are crazy mom."

After working with Seth off and on for about 4 months I think he's got it! For the past 2 weeks he has consistently used the bathroom by himself. I rarely have to ask him, "do you have to go potty?". I haven't cleaned up any messes, and I don't hesitate to take him to the store, a restaurant, or anyone Else's house. By George, I think he's got it!

Now I am going to post a picture that Seth made me send to Ben last week because he was so proud of himself. Don't be offended.

Noah...my 9 year old

2011-12-19T21:46:00.000-07:00

No one would ever believe that Noah is 9, but he is. He was so excited for his birthday party. Of course he chose to have his friends over and play football out in the freezing cold. If you can believe he asked me if he could play barefoot because he gets better traction. My answer was simply, "uh......NO!" Ben was a great sport and played with them. Then they ate pizza.

opened presents

played a trivia game to see how much his friends knew about him

had cake and ice-cream


Brock, Kelby, Cole in the back	Adam, Stanton, Noah, Jacob, and Ethan in the front

and played more football. The highlights of the evening were 3 of his friends gave him a football.

It was funny to me that his friends all know what he needed. His old one was in pretty bad shape. I made a cake that looked like a pokeball. It was not my best work, but good enough for my gracious son.
I am so grateful to have Noah as my son these past 9 years. I can remember when he was born. I love how kind and thoughtful he is. Especially towards me. He always observes my moods and is the first to ask, "are you okay mom?" He is an awesome student, a great friend, and a wonderful big brother. He just adores his little brothers. HAPPY BIRTHDAY NOAH! We love you so much!

p.s. sorry some of the pictures are fuzzy, it was really hard to get all these boys to hold still for a picture.

Family photos 2011

2011-12-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

We had new family photos taken this past couple of weeks. I felt really bad because Josh hasn't had professional pictures taken since he was 2 days old. Now that he is almost a year old I felt it has been long enough. It is so hard to keep up with that 4th child. I hear people say that all the time, but it is so true. The more kids you have the less pictures you take, scrapbooks you make, new clothes and toys you buy, new recipes you try, nice decor you buy for your house, restaurants you go to without a play-land, and and what was I talking about. Loss of memory goes with it too. Here they are.

Introducing...Seth's best friend

2011-10-14T14:45:00.001-06:00

On September 7, 2011 Seth turned three. He asked for a kitty for his birthday. We found him this cute kitten and for the past 6 weeks she has gone without a name. When Seth was asked what he wanted to name her he would say jello. Ben wanted to go the sarcastic route and name her spot, and of course Adam and Noah come up with the classic white pet names like snowball, and ghost. I am happy to say that last night we finally decided on a name for the kitten. Seth always calls her Kitty Cat so we shortened it and named her;
Drum roll please........KC (Kitty Cat)

Seth loves the stuffing out of her!

2011-09-16T23:07:00.001-06:00

Josh is 7 months old in this video. Seth was hitting the table with his hands and for whatever reason Josh thought it was hilarious. I love baby laughter.

Number 3 turns 3

2011-09-16T15:51:00.000-06:00

Seth is my third child. He in turn gets left in the dust when it comes to pictures and blog posts. I have yet to get professional pictures taken of him since he was about 9 months old. Yeah, I know, boo hoo for him. Well, he turned 3 last week and of course my post is coming in late. For the past month I have been asking him what he wants to do for his birthday and every time he says in his cute little way, "wanna go ta shuckee sheesh mom." When I ask him what kind of cake he wants he says, "shoclat." When I ask what he wants on his cake, meaning how he wants it decorated, he says,"shocolat." So, with grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and brothers in tow we went to shuckee sheesh with our shoclat cake.

Seth is such a light in our lives. He makes me laugh every day. Even harder than Ben could make me laugh sometimes. (That's saying a lot because Ben is a self proclaimed comedian.) Seth is so happy and loving. Happy birthday buddy! We love you!

First day of school

2011-08-25T00:32:00.000-06:00

Ready, Set, Go! Here it is again, first day of school. Adam is in 1st grade and Noah is in 3rd grade. I can't believe it at all. It is amazing to me how fast summer went by. They both rode their bikes to school and had a pretty good day. Hopefully the rest of the year can be good too.

What do you think?

2011-08-24T23:22:00.000-06:00

Should I be mad when Adam says to me, "Our baby Josh is so damn cute!"

Where have I been?

2011-08-22T09:51:00.000-06:00

Clearly I have been missing in action for a while. It all started with the beginning of summer. Then my computer broke. Then my camera broke so I started taking pictures with my phone but didn't know how to get the pictures off my phone. BTW I still don't know how to get them off so there aren't going to be any pictures with this post. I will figure it out soon so I can get some pictures up. Wow, then followed by a broken foot and 6 weeks off my foot. I am just trying to stay afloat so there hasn't been much blogging.
With that said I am going to attempt to catch back up. This summer was filled with lonely Lagoon passes, unpunched Classic skating dollar days passes, cancelled vacation plans, unscheduled sleepovers, good intentions and 2 camping trips that actually did happen. Due to my broken foot summer has been a trial, but here we are back to school. With a lot of help I got my school shopping done and the boys are good to go.
We were able to get some camping trips in this summer which the kids enjoyed. The kids got to go to Classic and swim a few times with Bens sister. Ben took them to Lagoon a couple of times. Other than that I sat around with kids sitting around with me.

I am still just sitting around...waiting for my foot to heal.

More to come soon!

Adam is 6

2011-07-09T12:53:00.000-06:00

After having a broken camera and computer I am going to spend the next few posts to catch up on missed events.

Adam turned 6 on June 19th and we went to Classic with one of his friends and his brothers. We skated, jumped on the bounce houses, and played on the Pirates Cove. His birthday cake was the 3 dinosaur eggs off of Ice Age Dawn of the Dinosaurs. Shelly, Eggbert, and Yoko. He had a great time, and is excited to be 6.

Josh is 4 months-He's actually 5 months old now-This Never got posted....OOPS!

2011-06-21T13:58:00.000-06:00

Time flies when you're babies are growing. He is 4 months old now. He is doing really well and sleeping anywhere from 6-8 hours at night. He loves to laugh at his brothers, Adam in particular, and here are his stats from his well child check.

Weight: 16lbs 7ounces or the 75%
Height: 26 1/2 inches or the 90th%
Head: 17 1/2 inches or the 90th%

In true Horsley boy form he is getting chubby, but no one expected the huge jump in height. We may just be working towards that baskeball team after all.

Mow, Mow, Mow the lawn

2011-05-13T18:42:00.000-06:00

Isn't it great when the grass starts to grow and turn green in the springtime. I love it when people start mowing the lawn and you can smell the fresh cut grass in the air. Because we came from the condo where all our yard care was taken care of for us we don't have all the fun tools that you need to maintain a yard. So, Ben took some money and bought a gaggle of tools so we can. Noah is now mowing the lawn, and he loves it. It is crazy to me how grown up he is. I think that Ben is going to teach him how to use the edger next. Watch out!

Flashback

2011-05-09T16:50:00.001-06:00

I am a little late, but here is my flashback to Easter weekend. Here are some pictures of our Easter. We had a great weekend participating in multiple easter egg hunts. We had Easter dinner with my parents and a bunch of cousins. Noahs friend Ethan's mom had an easter egg hunt in their back yard with grass that was at least 12 inches long. I'm pretty sure they will shoot some egg pieces and candy out of their lawn mower when they mow. It was a fun weekend!

The Voice Baby, The Voice

2011-05-04T11:32:00.000-06:00

I am a bit of a weirdo but I absolutely LOVE realtiy shows. My latest addiction is the Voice. Over the years I have predicted with great accuracy the winners of many reality shows. So accuratly that Ben says, "if I were a bettin' man I would bet on your predictions." So, just for fun I am going to predict who I think will take it all on "The Voice". I will follow my predicted contestant through the journey of the show and we will see how I/they do. Hopefully in the end coming up a winner. Here is the link to his audition clip for my guy, Javier. He is amazing and I think he will take it all.

http://youtu.be/tTUvxHf9g3U

Young Astronauts

2011-05-03T17:24:00.001-06:00

This year at school Noah joined a group called Young Astronauts. They had lots of afterschool activities and meetings where they learned about NASA, outer space, rockets and stars. They took a few field trips to places like Hill Aerospace Museum, Hansen
Planetarium, and space camp. He really enjoyed it. To end the year they have an awards ceremony and give each student a certificate for completing all the requirements to be a jr. ranger. Then they shoot off the rockets they have been working hard to build. It was really fun.

Here is a video of his rocket launch...

Lunch with Grandma

2011-05-03T17:04:00.000-06:00

Is there anything more nostalgic than walking into an Elementary School Cafeteria and being blanketed by the aroma of cafeteria food. I used to love lunch time at school. I usually brought a home lunch, but as a kid I loved to buy school lunch when I could. That may seem strange, but it was a real treat for me. The boys school hosted a Grandparents lunch day a few weeks ago and wanted to post it. Grandma Leta came and ate with us. Thanks for sharing this day in our lives with us.

Giggly baby

2011-04-21T13:47:00.000-06:00

Is there anything else in the world that is 100% guaranteed to bring an instant smile to your face than a baby that giggles? I dare you to try to find something. Josh is 3 months (13 weeks to be exact) and he can giggle. He is very particular as to when he will giggle. He LOVES the tub so I can always get him to laugh in the tub. He is starting to respond to being tickled, but it depends on his mood and where you are tickling him. I got him to giggle a few times in this video.

By the way...he laughed for me first. That is to say he doesn't laugh for Ben.

You don't love your cousin cause it's wrong...

2011-04-21T11:00:00.000-06:00

Well, you can love your cousin...just don't LOVE your cousin. Seth and his cousin Bennett began to take the toys out of the toy box at Grandmas house. Every adult who walked by them nicely reminded them that they were going to have to put them back. They ignored our warnings and continued to work together taking out more toys. I went in the toy room and started putting the toys back in the box in an effort to show them how it was done. They ushered me away and persevered. Now having to take the toys out that I put in made it exponentially more difficult. Finally, all the annoying adults left them alone just long enough to reach the top of their Mt. Everest. They emptied the entire toy box...and climbed in. They proceeded to laugh at each other to celebrate their victory. Nice job you two. Cousins, friends, boys, teammates, and now victors!

Hide N' Seek

2011-04-20T09:27:00.000-06:00

One of the many games that we love to play in our new house is hide and seek. We finally have enough room and feel like we have enough hiding spaces that it makes for a pretty good game. I can even find spots to hide. As you probably can guess Noah is the best hider and the other boys struggle to find him sometimes. Adam is getting better and more creative with his hiding spots. Seth always goes to the same spot. Always. However, the other day Seth must have decided that he was sick of losing because he found a new spot. He found a good new spot. i was impressed. Noah and Adam couldn't find him. It took me a few minutes of really looking to find him. Very clever Seth.

In case you can't tell he's in the laundry basket.

What is wrong with my kids?

2011-04-01T18:49:00.002-06:00

I love springtime! My kids haven't asked to turn on the TV all day. Its very odd for them. They love to watch TV. Instead we played basketball, baseball, jumped on the trampoline, and had just about every kid (who is a boy) in our neighborhood in our house. Today is so far, so good.
As an added bonus the dog who is normally following me around every second of the day is enjoying the warm sun too.

I hate date night

2011-03-28T23:45:00.000-06:00

I bet you've never heard a mother of 4 kids say that, but I do, I hate date night. As long as it consists of going through the toils of getting a babysitter only to pay to park so I can trudge through the bitter cold over to the Energy Solutions Arena and have my hopes dashed once again. Really, it's the Wizards. I can't wait for the Jazz season to be over so I can go on a real date again. I don't even know if there are any good movies out now. The Jazz are lame.

P.S. Josh is cute though!
P.P.S. Sorry about the cell phone picture. Isn't technology great:) (Roll my eyes)

Is it nap time again already?

2011-03-26T15:08:00.002-06:00

Seth is not allowed to have his binky in his mouth at all times anymore. We have restricted him to his binky only at nap time. He really loves his binky so he decided to get twice the binky fix today at nap time.

Sorry, I made this post from my phone and I don't know how to rotate the picture. So turn your head sideways.

This is just ridiculous

2011-03-16T10:55:00.000-06:00

This post may seem ridiculous to some of you out there. Others of you may be able to relate. Nevertheless, I needed to document it so I could remember this forever. I haven't had 2 kids in diapers previous to now. First of all it is so ridiculous to me the sheer number of diapers that I go through. Secondly, I am ever impressed by the game of tag team that these boys play without even knowing they are doing it. (or do they know?) Lastly, I am always in awe of the size and weight difference of the two diapers. It is so crazy that Seth can turn over a 2 pounder while Josh leaves me wishing I didn't waste that diaper. (Or did I?) It's all so crazy and....ridiculous.

The baby is blessed

2011-03-10T16:34:00.000-07:00

Josh is officially 2 months old. We blessed him last week and it was beautiful. Ben always does such a wonderful job preparing and being in tune so that he can be inspired and know what to bless these boys of ours with.
I go to the doctor next week and will find out his 2 month stats, but until then enjoy some pictures that I took of him on Sunday. He is a very sweet baby. He smiles, and tries to laugh. He loves it when you stop and stare at him for a while. He loves that interaction. He has a toy that he lays under with toys that dangle. He has figured out that if he swings his arm just right they will swing. That makes him smile. I feel so very blessed to be Josh's mother. He is a very happy and scrumptious baby.

Pros and Cons

2011-02-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

I have put together a list of pros and cons to tell you how the week has gone. Top ten Pros and top ten Cons. Here goes:

Pros: the top ten things that happened this week
10. My neighbors brought over Valentines Day cookies...YUM
9. We won our volleyball game on Thursday
8. Bachelor is doing hometown visits this week-Yeah!
7. We took advantage of free kids meals at Chilis tonight-Gotta love free food.
6. Ben and I went to Sacrament meeting together for the first time in over a year on Sunday.
5. Seth started to dress and undress himself. A lot of the time he doesn't have any clothes on, but it's fun.
4. No school today. No one likes school.
3. Josh slept 5 hours yesterday
2. I got 4 showers this week. 4 days out of 7 is good for me these days
1. Josh started to smile at me...this makes it all worth it.

Cons:
10. Ben got and iphone
9. Ben got an iphone
8. Ben got an iphone
7. Ben got an iphone
6. Ben got an iphone
5. Ben got an iphone
4. Ben got an iphone
3. Ben got an iphone
2. Ben got an iphone
1. Ben got an iphone

Could I please get my husband back...PLEASE!

Friday Fun...grandma, it's just for fun!

2011-02-11T16:40:00.001-07:00

Man Crushes:

I am copying this idea from Aubrey because it's fun, and it's Friday. . . so it works for Friday fun.

Any of you out there have a "man crush"? I know you're thinking to yourselves. . .how can I have a "man crush" when I am happily married? Well, let's just say that we're all human. . . and while we love our husbands, we can still have "crushes" on people. Will we do anything about these crushes? No! Of course not! If I was to meet one of these people in real life I'm sure that I would be so nervous, or star struck that I wouldn't even have the courage to say anything to them. I would just gawk and giggle like a giddy school girl. Plus, it's a nice ironic twist for Friday fun to list man crushes on Valentines Day weekend. So without further ado, here are my Top 5 man crushes:

#5: Adam Brody. Ever since I was addicted to the OC in 2006 i have always crushed on Adam, and I am awaiting the day when he does something mainstream and new so I can look at him some more on my TV. For now I have to settle for re-runs of the OC on DVD. "SIGH"

#4-Jesse Bradford-He came to me from the good old stupid teen flick movie "Bring It On." I think I have a thing for dark hair and quirky looks. It's just so cute!

#3-Mark Ruffalo- This man I fell in love with from a bunch of movies. He once again has the dark hair and quirky smile. He however has more of an older man look to me than Adam, or Jesse. He's hot!

#2-This one was too hard to choose. Taylor Lautner vs. Zac Efron... I can't choose? I know that these two are both big with the teens, but I am willing to risk looking foolish for putting them on my list because I am older than a standard giddy and trendy teen. What can I say, I can look at them all day.

Hey, he doesn't have dark hair...and he's on my list. It's a miracle.

##1

My top pick for man crushes is the one and only Channing Tatum. I was introduced to him when I watched "She's the Man." He is the candy to my eye, and my #1 pick for celebrity man crushes.

one less tooth for Adam

2011-02-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

Is it really that time in my life again. I have another boy loosing teeth. Adam has been wiggling this tooth for months it seems like. It didn't want to come out at all. Finally one night when I was tucking him in I asked to wiggle it and it went all the way forward and all the way back. I could see the entire root and it was longer than the tooth itself. I told him to brace himself because mommy was pulling it out tonight. And that is what happened. He was really excited to finally show his teacher and friends at school that he lost it, and get a visit from the tooth fairy. Good times!


Check out how long the root is. Totally longer than the tooth. Weird!

Adam loved how he could put his tongue in between his teeth.

One Derby down. . . 19 to go.

2011-01-31T19:55:00.000-07:00

Noah participated in his first Pinewood Derby this past week. He had fun designing and making his car with Ben. It didn't do very well racing, but I think they both learned a lot about what they want to do next year. I don't really get it, but it was fun for the boys. The fascination and competition that boils up in these males doesn't make much sense to me. I would rather be in the kitchen baking a pie.

Noah designed it as a lightning bolt

sizing up the competition

3, 2, 1, GO!!!

Week 2

2011-01-29T15:12:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger: Josh
Here I am almost 3 weeks old and my mom hasn't posted my 2 week stats. I guess I will have to subscribe to the saying you use here. . . what is it. . . oh yeah, if you want something done you have to do it yourself. The doctor said I look perfect and I am very healthy. I didn't expect anything less. I am working hard on that. I do have a blocked tear duct, but it bothers my mom way more than me. She is always wiping out my eye. Anyway, here is what the doc said about me:

On 1/26/2011 I weighed 9 lbs. 2 oz. (80%)
I was 21 inches tall (75%)
My head measured 14 3/4 inches (70%)

They poked my heel again, and I cried a lot. The nurse kept singing,"it's okay Josh. It's okay." I did not agree with her. It was and still is NOT OK! Well, that's it for now. Josh signing out. See ya!

Friday Fun-Christmas lights my way

2011-01-21T06:59:00.005-07:00

I love Christmas.
I love Christmas lights.
I have a new house.
I want to do Christmas lights next year.
I found the perfect house to copy their lighting design.

The one on the right.

Noah was baptized

2011-01-19T10:17:00.001-07:00

Noah made the choice to be baptized. He turned 8 the end of December. A few days before his baptism I was talking to him about what it means to be baptized. We talked about covenants, the Holy Ghost, testimony, repentance, the whole deal. He answered all the questions correctly and seemed to be aware of what he was getting himself into. I tucked him into bed and went downstairs to clean up before I went to bed too.
Later, I went up stairs and found a note on my side table from Noah. After our chat he decided to write down his testimony and give it to me. The note read:
The thing that God has helped me with.
One day I went to the store with my dad. I went to the bathroom, he went to pick up medicine for me. So when I was done I went to the part of the store where they sell medicine. For a little while I was still sitting there. So I started to walk around, I still could not see him. So I went to a spot where no one was and I started to pray and then 2 minutes later I see my dad. I was so happy to see him and that is one of the reasons I know the Savior lives.
Lets just say I cried. What a sweet spirit he has. He is truly aware of his Heavenly Father and yearns to feel His spirit in his every day life. He taught me a lesson of what faith is.
I hope he continues to feel this way about the gospel and strengthen his testimony. We love him so much.

First week on Earth

2011-01-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

Josh has been here for a whole week. Sometimes I wonder if he really likes it here. He is doing pretty well, but will revolt when he doesn't agree with what is going on. Mostly he shows his disapproval is by farting/peeing/pooping/spitting on people. When I say people I mean me, because I am assuming most of the daily care for him. That is always fun. He is eating well, and sleeping okay. He is so fun to have here but a lot of work. I take that back. Josh is easy compared to the bundle of crazy goodness that is Seth. What am I going to do with that monkey? Hopefully this world isn't too dissapointing for you buddy.

Chapter 4

2011-01-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

If my years spent with kids has taught me anything it is that there is nothing joyful in this life with out challenges. My children are like chapters in a book. Each title contains a joyful blessing and a challenge.

Title: Who knew she would stand alone?

Chapter 1: My angel on Earth who tries to be 15.

Chapter 2: The charming yet challenging love of my life

Chapter 3: My crazy independent monkey with hugs for all.

Chapter 4: He is willful and embracable

He's here.
Joshua Levi Horsley
January 10, 2011
8 lbs. 5 oz.
He is a joy and a welcome addition to the family. Everyone is loving him. . .even Seth.

Then there is this guy...what do I do with him?

Most recent cake

2011-01-06T19:38:00.001-07:00

I made this wedding cake last month. It was very simple but turned out very pretty. I like to keep pictures of my work so that some day, when I have 4 kids and I go crazy, I won't forget that I once knew how to make wedding cakes. It had some very beautiful flowers on it, but they didn't get added until I dropped it off at the reception and I of course didn't take my camera. So, we get the bare bones of the cake without the bling.

Noahs Birthday Bash

2011-01-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

My kids get big birthday parties every 4 years. Noah got a huge friend party this year for his 8th birthday. He had about 10 friends over for a sports themed party. We played games, ate burgers and hot dogs, and cake and ice-cream. It was loud and crazy, but I was so grateful that I didn't have to have the party at the condo. That may have pushed me over the edge with all these loud boys. Here are some of my favorite pictures of the party. The boys had fun and surprisingly didn't break anything. Yeah for me. Just so Noah can remember...his friends names who came were, Taylor, McKay, Tayden, Hayden, Evan, Markus, Hyrum, Matthew, Kaleb, Adam, and Noah.

My baby is 8

2011-01-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it. My baby boy, Noah is 8. He turned 8 on December 18th, and I honestly cannot believe that he has been a part of my life for 8 years. He is a wonderful son, and brother. He is smart, clever, competitive, and very fun to spend time with. We aIways joke that he was born 6 years old so now he is 14. He acts so mature and really understands how to be compassionate and try to love and understand others around him. He is a great friend. I love having him as my son. We as a family wouldn't be the same without him. Happy Birthday Noah, We love you!

Friday fun!

2010-12-17T06:43:00.002-07:00

My most awesome friend Aubrey does posts on Friday that are funny, confusing, or sometimes thought provoking. She posts them on Friday to help get ready for the weekend. I am going to follow in her footsteps and maybe together we can make each other, and you laugh.

Here's my first attempt, thanks Ben:

Noah and the sweater

2010-12-16T06:49:00.002-07:00

I have told some of you this story, but it really makes me laugh. It will come to life when you see the picture. As I am pulling out newborn baby clothes and blankets to wash to prepare for the baby I am pulling out boxes of winter clothes for Adam and Seth. I get to one for Seth and pulled out this really cute sweater and said to Noah, "Oh, Noah I remember buying this sweater for you when you were Seths' age. I love this sweater." I go about my washing and sorting and a few minutes later Noah comes running in the room yelling, "Mom, Mom, it fits, it still fits!!" I turn around and this is what I see. Uhhhhhh, ok son!

45 days later...

2010-12-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

You may be asking yourself where I have been...well I have had quite a list of things to do the last 45 days. First and foremost...we bought a new home in Centerville and moved. We feel really blessed to be here. It was truly a miracle that we were able to find the home and go through the whole process only to fund the loan in 3 weeks. I feel like we are meant to be here and we love it. Here are some pictures of moving day, and the house. Thanks to everyone who helped us move...there were a ton of you. I especially appreciate it being 8 months pregnant.

Seth has a new best friend

2010-11-01T15:13:00.001-06:00

seth spends a lot of time outside now that it isn't so hot. he likes to ride his scooter and push his toy lawn mower around. lately we will be outside and he will wander off to the neighbors house to visit his new best friend. he is a pretty good natured friend. he is very rarely busy so he lets seth play with him anytime he wants. they play well together unless his friend is under the car. that really frustrates seth because he doesn't fit under the car.

Horsley Boys take Halloween

2010-11-01T10:44:00.002-06:00

This year Noah declared that he didn't want to dress up for Halloween. However, with the threat of not getting any candy at all (not even being able to eat what I had at home) if he didn't dress up he decided to suffer through it for an hour at the Dick's Market Trunk or Treat.

Noah is Anekin Skywalker
Adam is an X-ray Skeleton
Seth is Bob the Builder

After that we walked around to some of our neighbors in the rain and that was all I got from Noah. The rain was a dealbreaker. Seth LOVED it once he figured out what we were doing. He giggled as he walked up to the homes. It was really cute. Adam enjoyed it as well, as long as he didn't get any DOTS. That was bad ):

Favorite Candies for this year:
Noah: 3 Musketeers
Adam: Reeses Peanut Butter Cups
Seth: Smarties
Me: Twix
Ben: Butterfinger

Now I can thrust Halloween out of my mind and put up my Christmas tree!

Should I be nervous about this?

2010-10-29T16:09:00.000-06:00

Both Noah and Adam have a box in their room where they keep trinkets and other special things. They call them their "special boxes". Honestly I am such an anti-clutter freak that I started these boxes because I had thrown away a lot of things that they really wanted to keep. So, I tell them that I can't tell if it means anything to you unless it is in your special box. So, the other day Adam with digging through his box and playing with things and reminiscing about his special things. He found a self portrait that he had done when he was 3. He pulled it out, examined it carefully, made a disgusted face, and brought it over to me. He says,"Mom, can you throw this picture of me away. I don't want it any more. It makes me look fat."
He hands me this picture and walks back over to his box. Should I be worried??

FINALLY!! Jazz season is upon us

2010-10-29T15:58:00.001-06:00

We are sharing season tickets with my parents and 2 sisters this season. It has been fun so far to go to the pre-season games, but last night was truly disheartening. The Jazz played their first home game of the season and got spanked. Hopefully they will do well this year and play Haywood a lot because he is my new BTW and I'm his biggest fan!

GO JAZZ!!!!

C'est La vie

2010-10-05T19:55:00.001-06:00

I don't mean to complain....but I absolutely hate when my kids pour an entire bottle of kid shampoo into the bath water. Then it takes 2 days to rinse them off, and 3 more days to rinse out the tub! Am I the only mom that this happens to? Am I the only mom who it bothers? Well, c'est la vie, off the to store to buy some more kid shampoo.

"B" is for bubble bath

2010-09-16T13:56:00.000-06:00

I know that he wont appreciate this in 5 years, but these pictures of Seth are so adorable that I had to post them. He absolutely loves the bath and has discovered that he can lay down in the water and it makes everything sound funny. I just can't get enough of this kid...he's so cute!

I think he is part fish

Cheese!

I love the sound of buzzing bees

2010-09-15T10:15:00.000-06:00

As a lot of other people did I'm sure we fit in a Bees Game this year! Noah loves the game and the popcorn, Adam loves the popcorn, and Seth is just happy playing with an empty water bottle and sitting on moms lap! Ben likes to tease Steph and the rest of us just had a "swinging" good time! It was the best ending I have ever seen at a baseball game. We were down by 2 at the bottom of the 9th and we get runners on 1st and third. 2 outs, full count, and they hit a homerun! Talk about exciting. You can't write a better ending for baseball!

Out of the blue...Seth turned 2!

2010-09-15T09:35:00.001-06:00

I cannot believe it! Seth is 2. There are so many things that we love about Seth. He is really good at never talking back. He is always smiling and laughing. He thinks everything is funny. He has an amazing talent of calming down and melting everyone in the room. He is such an angel. He loves to color, play with trains, watch Thomas cartoons, and he LOVES animals. So, we decided to take him to the zoo for his birthday. We had a lot of family come with us and it turned out to be a great day. Thanks everyone!

Adam looking at the monkeys. They were so vocal singing songs for us all morning. They had every range represented from Soprano to Bass.

Noah chillin' with the penguins. I don't think I have ever seen the penguins at the zoo do anything. But today they were all over the place. Noah thought it was really cool.

The giraffe was licking the tree. I don't know why, but his tongue was about 2 feet long. Adam and Ben were doing their best to impersonate the giraffe.

Baby Suri gave us a show. She is so cute!

We only needed Adam to almost measure up perfectly to the Apes.

Adam picked out a pillow pet for Seth for his birthday. He loves it and I can't get it away from his for even one second. Good idea Adam!

a late additon

2010-08-25T22:52:00.000-06:00

I finally got some pictures from Heather from our Yellowstone trip (which I already posted about over a month ago). We went to the Lewis and Clarke caverns. They were awesome! There are spots inside the caves where you have to sit on your bum and slide, and lots of steps and cool formations. Very impressive. If you are ever out that way I highly recommend going to see them. It's totally worth the drive.

This was probably one of the coolest things I have ever done. I think the history and stories that the tour guide told (even though our tour guides delivery sucked) really brought it to life. It was a lot of fun!

It needed to be done

2010-08-25T22:29:00.000-06:00

I guess that Adam felt his stuffed dog "Ike" needed a trim.

He is concentrating a lot to make sure and get it just right.

2nd grader and a kindergartner...How will I survive?

2010-08-25T14:16:00.000-06:00

The boys wanted to ride bikes to school on the first day. I think that it is so sureal that they are both going to school. They are excited and ready and that is what counts! Here we go!

Christmas HOPE

2010-08-25T13:23:00.001-06:00

August 25, 2010

Dearest Family and Friends,

As most of you know, our mother was diagnosed with cancer in May of this year. We have had many offer their prayers, fasting, and help. For that we thank you.

We are proud of Mom and her continuous bravery and strength. After much thought, we have decided to donate a tree to the Festival of Trees. This not only will honor our mom, but the proceeds for our tree will go to Primary Children’s Medical Center to provide a better opportunity for patients there.

The name chosen for the tree is Christmas HOPE. We continue with HOPE that Mom will win her fight with cancer. We HOPE the money donated will help another in need. We HOPE you will contribute what you can to help us decorate the greatest Christmas tree to honor the greatest woman we know.

We have an event deadline of November 1st, 2010 so; please send all donations before then to:

Carina Both
2446 Jordan Meadows Lane
West Jordan, UT 84084

We are excited to support our mom and to help families at Primary Children’s Medical Center. If you want to know more about this charity and/or information about coming to see the tree, log onto http://www.festivaloftreesutah.org/

Thank you for your love and prayers,
Carina, Heather, Heidi, and Stephanie

Camping with the Johnson, Hepworth, Piggott, Horsley, Coyle, Stout Family

2010-08-10T09:21:00.000-06:00

For our yearly family camping trip we went up Cottonwood Canyon and camped a few days at the Redman campground. We ate lots of food, even if it was at 9 at night.

We played kickball until Kent popped the kickball and it turned into fat bat tennis ball.

We hiked around Silver Lake, saw some ducks including a baby, and climbed some pretty impressive rocks.

It was a beautiful campground with a river/stream running through it. I believe everyone slept well with the stream in the background (except me...I think it sounds like a fuzzy TV channel and all night long I keep wondering why someone wouldn't change the channel!) Grandma brought the best camping craft ever. All the kids, sans the babies, whittled their own walking stick and Grandma brought leather, feathers and beads to decorate them. Even Kent got in on that action...he's a kid at heart. The kids really took their time to make them their own. They loved it. Even Adam tried really hard to make it all by himself. Many of us offered to help him and he shot us all down.

Thanks for the good times family. It was great!

p.s. I have lots of pictures so if anyone (who went camping with us) wants them let me know and I can get them to you.

Baseball ended

2010-08-10T08:41:00.000-06:00

The boys just recently finished their baseball season 2010. Noah played machine pitch for the Giants, and Adam played T-ball for the White Sox. They both enjoyed it, and did very well. The league hosted a pot luck Bar-B-Q and awards ceremony for all the players. I think that baseball really is Americas favorite past time. Take me out to the ball game!!

The Both Kids

2010-08-10T08:31:00.000-06:00

So...little bit late, but thought it was worth posting just so we can remember that it happened, you know how it is. Last month for Carina and Andy's anniversary I kept the Both kids overnight. We had a good time, well I did and hope they did too. We went to Artic Circle and got some ice cream/root beer floats for a treat. The funniest part of the night was Seth. He just figured out what to do when you put a camera up and say smile. He thinks he is so grown up, and funny. I think he is so cute! Thanks for indulging me and my little bit of remembrance....by the way, it wont be the last time. I am not so prompt at posting sometimes.

shout out to pam and kent

2010-07-26T08:54:00.001-06:00

last month bens older sister pam got married

to a great guy named kent

they bought a home

they started their life together

we are all thrilled for them

and hope for the best

love you and see you soon

yellowstone is not just for the children

2010-07-25T23:36:00.000-06:00

We camped in Island Park this past week and spent some time at Quake Lake, Yellowstone, and Lewis and Clark Caverns. It was our first family campout with out my parents. It ran rather smoothly. In fact we (my sisters and I) commented a few times as the week went on about how proud we were of ourselves for pulling it off without our parents. As much as we all wanted them to be there, we felt a little more grown up for a few days. Lewis and Clark Caverns was just about the coolest thing I have done in my whole life, despite a truly lame tour guide, but alas I didn't have a camera. I will post some shots later when I can get some from Joey. Otherwise, it was a very wildlife and hot pot filled week.

4th of July festivities

2010-07-20T20:17:00.001-06:00

We spent the 4th celebrating with the Piggotts. We went out to lunch, to the carnival at West Bountiful park, to a ward picnic, and finally to see fireworks at the golf course. The highlight of the day was a parachute ride that the kids got to do at the park. After waiting in line for his whole life (according to Adam) he climbs into a bubble type chamber. Noah said it made him a little nervous. He was brave and got into the harness that was attached to the parachute. Then they blow the air and you float up. Both boys LOVED it and couldn't stop talking about it for days. It was a great day for us to celebrate all of our freedoms. We had a wonderful day!

Don't be the last one to find out...

2010-07-20T19:59:00.000-06:00

WE ARE HAVING A BABY!

and.....it's a boy!

surprised?

We're not.

Excited?

We are too!

How far along?

15 weeks.

When am I due?

January 15th

Still have a way to go.

The doctor got this shot by ultrasound...the "U" shape that you see on the screen is leg, bottom, leg...and a triangle shaped you know what in between. He says he is 98.9% sure even at just 15 weeks that it's a boy. I'd have to agree.

Adam is 5, everyone else is wet!

2010-07-02T09:40:00.000-06:00

i couldn't pin Adam down on anything specific that he wanted to do for his birthday. the ideas ranged from a kid friends party, to boondocks bowling, to camping with grandma and grandpa. i couldn't get him to decide, so i decided for him. he wanted water balloons and friends to be involved for sure so we had a barbeque and water party with our neighbors and grandma and grandpa.

as you will be able to tell from the pictures the main instigators of the water fight were lis and jared...ben jumped in after the fact (of course).

lis doused an unsuspecting noah with water

in the end i think everyone had fun and we enjoyed ice cream cake.

adam got lots of fun presents including new roller blades that he almost never takes off. happy birthday adam...we love you!

A good use for old signs

2010-06-24T10:58:00.000-06:00

Ben spent the whole night after the election collecting his signs. He took a bunch of friends and 3 trucks and collected them all. They landed in a pile in our yard (which I am sure that the other condo owners love that). Every time Ben walks past the pile he says, "what am I supposed to do with all those signs?"

Well Ben, Seth found a good use for the signs. He tries to climb to the top, or sits in the pile and shoots people with the wooden posts as they walk by. So, for now let your mind rest assured that the pile of signs is getting some use.

The Horsley Honk and Wave

2010-06-23T23:27:00.000-06:00

Well, as many of you may know...Ben lost the Primary election. It was a pretty close 41% to 59% result. However, we did have a great time on Election day doing a honk and wave. We got a bunch of our friends, and forced some of the neighbor kids to help, but it was fun despite the loss. Here are some of my favorite pictures of everyone performing their civic duty and/or community service.

Dallin was doing lots of tricks with the signs...he amazed us all with his mad skills.Sol rocked out the double sign

Little Seth could barely hold up the sign, but he was there holding and waving!

Noah and his buddies covered the whole corner.

Ben was so cute trying to get people to remember to vote. He really did try hard.

Hannah and her friends covered the east corner.

This is pretty much the extent of effort and excitement that Adam put into the whole thing...nada.

Thanks for your help Savannah!

I think Hayden was the hottest and most tired, but he hung in there.

Carter was practicing the alternative method of "look mom...no hands!"

Oh Ember...isn't she cute!

I mostly ran around chasing Seth and trying to keep kids out of the street, but I did find a few moments to help Ben and hold a sign and wave.

It was a great race, and Ben fought hard. It just wasn't meant to be. On to the next thing! Summertime with Ben!!!

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-09T16:12:00.000-06:00

I am aware of the lateness of this post, but it is worth it to me to post this. We shared Jazz tickets with my sister and mom and dad this year. If you have ever been to a jazz game then you know what the "moving on up" promotion that they do is. If not basically they choose someone sitting in the upper bowl (where our seats are) and move them to the lower bowl for that game. Well, my parents were chosen to move on up, and along with that they got some free tickets to the world super bike races. They couldn't go so they gave them to us. It was a blast. Along with the races, they had the entire park filled with booths and lots of cool cars. The boys were in heaven...including my boy Ben.

Thanks mom, for the tickets. We put them to good use. If you haven't been to the Miller motor sports park, it is worth it to go even if you hate cars and bikes racing. It is truly a sight to see.

2010-06-09T15:42:00.000-06:00

We went to the dentist for the boys check-ups. They both did really well and no cavities! Yeah! It was the first time were they both got the full treatment. Adam has only had his teeth counted and flossed for him in the past. He got that done and a floride treatment. We left with clean teeth and new tootbrushes. Until next time...in 6 months!

2010-06-08T08:55:00.001-06:00

Adam just finished his season with the White Sox. He did really well, even though he will tell you he didn't and that he didn't like it. They give you 5 coach pitches and if you can't hit them they put it on the tee. He never had to hit it off the tee, so I consider that doing really well. They don't keep score or stats at this age, but he will tell you that his team didn't win any games. He says, "I hit the ball, but we lost." He's a lefty and it was funny to watch all the dads/coaches get thrown off by that. They always said,"hey a lefty, I hope I can get it to you."

It was fun, but I am looking forward to having tee ball/baseball over and moving on with our summer plans.

Kids sleep in the weirdest places

2010-06-02T22:39:00.001-06:00

My friend recently posted her son sleeping in her baby swing on her swingset and it got me thinking. I know that we have all been busy doing something while our children were playing and found them sleeping. I have a ton of these pictures of babies sleeping in high chairs, bur here is a funny one of Adam. He fell asleep on the couch which wasn't a weird place, but it was the setting around him that I found funny. He wanted to watch TV for some free time so he got himself some snacks and had at it for a while. He has a bag of chips, a bowl of popcorn, and a box of mint meltaways. (If you look closely you can see the wrappers on the floor.) He made sure both remotes were safely set next to him and proceded to gorge himself to sleep. It was hilarious.

Here is a close up so you can see how peaceful he was.

Where have your kids fallen asleep?

Seth and I had fun last night...he he he

2010-06-02T21:16:00.000-06:00

Aubrey, I did it! I got it on film!

2010-05-31T00:01:00.001-06:00

It only took me a few months, but I did it. This morning I was upstairs putting on my make up in the boys bathroom, and I heard them downstairs laughing. As I listened more closely to what they were saying I heard things like, "Adam, Adam over here." "He can't get us in here." "Run, here he comes!"

They were playing hide and seek together, all three of them. Seth kept hiding in the closet because that is where Adam kept hiding, but it was so cute to see them all playing together. They would run away from Seth and hide. Then he would knock on the door, and they would jump out and make him giggle and run away and it would start all over again. I am glad they are friends.

The terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day!

2010-05-30T23:49:00.000-06:00

Has anyone ever had a day where it seems that everything is spiraling out of control? Do you think that your day sucks and then you get a phone call that makes it worse? Saturday was bad. I had a whole day planned full of things to do and I accomplished nothing.

This part is for Heather...As I stated before, as I thought about the events of the past few days my inspiration was that I needed to have faith...there is a plan, I don't know it, I can't know it, and I can't change it. I have to have faith that what will be...will be. Just pray, have faith, and pray some more. Until I think of something better to say Hey, that has to be good enough.

End of the year programs and graduations

2010-05-27T14:25:00.007-06:00

Starting with Adam:

Adam graduated pre-school last week. He loved being able to go to school this year. He attended Jump Start Pre-school as per a recommendation of a friend and he loved it. I loved it! It was a great school with lots of fun things and field trips to keep him busy, learning, and growing. They had a little program with music and a graduation march. The day was extra special because grandma came to celebrate with us. Now he is officially a kindergartner.

Now there is Noah:

Noah's 1 st Grade class did a program this year for the end of the year. They haven't done one in a lot of years so the kids had a lot of fun preparing for it. They sang a lot of songs and had a couple of speaking parts. Noah isn't much of a singer so I was just proud to see him singing. I don't think he sang a word at hid kindergarten program so that is improvement. Once again it was a special night because Grandma and Grandpa got to join us.

Look mom...no training wheels!

2010-05-27T13:43:00.001-06:00

The other day Adam was riding his bike (with training wheels). All of a sudden he said, "mom can I try Noah's bike?' I responded that he couldn't ride without his training wheels. He set me straight by telling me, "yes I can mom, if you help me." So we hopped on Noah's bike and he took off without so much as an ounce of instruction or me running behind him. He just did it. (It reminds me of when we were potty training him, we waited a bit longer to try to train him then we did with Noah and he did it in 3 days. He just figured it out quickly.) He didn't need much help from me...because he knew he wanted to do it. Sometimes he really surprises me, and this was one of those times. Good job Adam!

The season has come to a close

2010-05-22T23:58:00.002-06:00

The boys are Noah, PJ, Micheal, Stewart, Ollie, Devon, Travis, and Jaden.

Noah has just finished his first season playing soccer on the Bantam league. Overall, the team improved as the season progressed. Noah had a lot of fun and especially enjoyed playing goalie. We started a program at the beginning of the season to give him some incentive called "score for a smoothie". If he scored a goal we took him to Keva for a smoothie. Before the program he didn't score at all. After the program

started I don't think he went a game without getting a smoothie. Good job Noah! It is actually starting to be fun to watch him play, so hopefully it will only get better as he gets older.

It came and went

2010-05-21T13:24:00.000-06:00

So this is a little late, but Ben and I celebrated our 11th anniversary last week on the 15th. We didn't do much. Our cousins dinner that we try and plan about every other month landed on that night so we had dinner with our cousins, and went shopping for a new suit for Ben. That's about it, but it was still a momentous day that needed a shout out. Ben, I love you and I am so blessed to have you in my life. Just remember honey...you're dad was wrong. Love You!

Hiking to the "B"

2010-05-06T15:09:00.000-06:00

My boys are so active, and I love it! One Sunday afternoon, when it wasn't too cold, we drove up to the "B" because we have been telling them forever that we would hike up there. It isn't much to see when you are looking at the "B", but the view of the valley is awesome. It's times like this that I want summer to come so we can be outside all the time.

The longest post ever...continues

2010-05-06T14:19:00.002-06:00

I totally forgot that on our drive home from California Ben and I decided to take a side trip. (We did that to Mt. Rushmore on our way home from Nauvoo last year, too. I wonder if we are going to be known as the family who takes side trips on vacation? Huh?) We stopped at the Hoover Dam. The boys thought it was so cool how high we were, and of course Noah recognized it from Transformers. Before we got there Adam asked me if Megatron was going to be there, and if they were able to fix the Dam. We promptly had a real vs. fantasy conversation.
We also took one of the Dam tours that they let kids go on. We got to go underground to see the original water tunnel that they dug to divert the river water to build the dam, and some of the Nevada side turbines. The best part of the trip though was teaching the boys what it meant to be afraid of heights...and promptly making fun of Ben who stayed inside the museum claiming that Seth needed to stay inside because he was going to jump. Ok Ben, thanks for saving Seths' life.

The Horsleys take Anaheim aka Quite possibly the longest post ever!

2010-05-04T22:30:00.003-06:00

We just had the best family vacation ever! This is the 3 boys squished in the back seat so they can all watch the 7 inch TV screen. That was fun for all but Seth was mad because he couldn't hold the TV.

We met lots of special people on our trip. Adam refused to pose with any of them except for Mater and Lightning Mcqueen. Both boys absolutley refused to be seen in a picture with Tinkerbell, and were even upset that I made them wait in line to see her, so Seth and I met her.

Our top 11 rides (in no particular order) were:
1-Space Mountain (the picture is a picture of the screen with the picture that they take with you on the ride)
2- Matterhorn
3- Splash Mountain
4- Teacups (except Ben who refused to ride)
5- Thunder Mountain Railroad
6- California Screamer
7- Roger Rabbit (the boys...not me...that ride makes me dizzy, and it's weird...hmmp, just like the movie!)
8- Seth LOVED Finding Nemo
9- Bear River run (which puts rattlesnake rapids to shame)
10-Toy Story Mania
11-The boats and cars at Legoland.

I bet you're wondering if there were any rides that we didn't like...and the answer is yes! There were also a few that we did like, but didn't make the top 11. Also notice how Ben is in all the pictures except for the teacups and I happened to fall in the picture on Nemo with Seth...typical.

The other fun thing that happened at Disneyland was Adam got to do the Jedi Training. He was so excited, and actually got to fight Darth Vader. He was just beaming at the end, it was so cute. That was priceless, and only Disneyland can give that to a kid.

We got to spend a couple of days with Bens Brother, Guy and his family. We saw the Angels play the Yankees at Angel Stadium, and went to the beach. Dana will truely appreciate the picture of her and her boys lounging in the sun...I couldn't help myself. You looked so cute! The picture of Noah looked like he was modeling swimwear or something. Anyway, we played in the sand, the boys played football, we swam (or waded...it was quite cold), sunbathed, read, relaxed, and saw a dead sea lion that washed up on the beach.

We also went to Legoland and you have seen some pictures above. I absolutley loved it there. There were two story tall dragons, and an Einstein head made entirely of legos! I mean, how can you not enjoy that feit of engineering? The rides are lame in comparison to Disneyland, but there is a part of the park that is cities made of legos. I loved San Francisco, Las Vegas, New York City, and Coit Tower (just for you Harding). They had little people on the streets, and cars, busses, and trolleys that actually moved. It was diorama heaven! Legoland was fun for a day because my boys love legos, but I'm glad

we only spent a day there. The magic truley is at Disneyland.

All in all it was a great trip and the boys just loved it. The first three days were cold and rainy so we never stood in line more than 10 minutes. It was great to be able to pretty much go on any ride as many times as you wanted to. I hope that we made some good memories with our kids. Next time will probably be in 2012...unless the world ends by then.

Is he really ready for Kindergarten?

2010-04-29T20:24:00.000-06:00

Or should I ask, am I really ready to let another of my babies go to school. Am I ready for kindergarten? I think that he is very ready and excited to go. We went to his school and met the proncipal and both kindergarten teachers and played in the classrooms. He had a blast! He is so much more friendly and outgoing than Noah ever was so he was talking to other kids and playing with them. One of the teachers has all the sight words that they learn throughout the kindergarten year taped to the floor, and he knew a lot of them. I am not worried at all about him succeeding in school, I am just sad to see him go. I hope that he continues to be excited through the summer.

2010 Republican Convention

2010-04-13T15:23:00.001-06:00

Ben is running for the Legislature and we spent a lot of time the past couple months preparing for this one day. This final event...2010 Convention. Thanks to everyone who came and helped Ben. He really appreciates it.

Ben gave a great speech even though he was nervous and rushed it a little. He and subsequently I were up until 2 a.m. the previous night practicing and trying to perfect it.

Ben ended up going to a Primary Election with another candidate so we are campaigning again until July. Speaking of campaigns one of our favorite parts of the convention were all the campaign signs. The pictures don't do it justice. You had to be there to believe all the signs that were literally everywhere. They started miles down the road from the school. There was even one hanging from the scoop of a tractor. The boys loved to play with, climb on and knock over all the signs.

I am glad it is over, but dred the Primary. Good Luck Ben!

Adam's revelation

2010-04-12T12:31:00.002-06:00

The other day we were riding in the car talking about how much we weighed and the following conversation insued:
Adam-"mom, Seth weighs like 7 pounds!"
Me-"well, it's more like 27 pounds buddy."
Noah-(laughing)"Whooaah! That is like 7 pounds heavier than Adams' head! (Then looking at Adam and speaking quietly like he is revealing a secret that needed to be broken to him gently) Sorry dude, but you do have a big head."
Adam-(very sullen, and with a sigh) "oh yeah, I forgot."

I was in the front seat just laughing at the irony because anyone who knows Noah knows his head surpasses Adams head in sheer size and it always has. Secondly, it was entertaining the moment that my boys just shared. I hope they are always good friends and Noah continues to care about Adam's feelings enough to break bad news to him gently.

Easter Weekend 2010

2010-04-07T13:21:00.001-06:00

Let's just be frank here, Easter weekend was crazy this year. I did have an epiphany though, I think Easter is my new favorite holiday. Our Saturday had a little bar-b-q and easter egg hunt with our friends the Simmons. It was yummy and fun.

Then during Priesthood I took my kids to Carinas house for Birthday festivities for my nephew Drew. The poor kids birthday was on Conference Sunday and Easter this year, so we celebrated on Saturday. We went to Golden Corral, then back to thier house for cake and presents, then off to the Kearns Oval for ice-skating.

This was an adventure. I had never been there so it was fun to walk the halls that the olympians walked. Noah cried and wanted to leave until I forced/dragged him to go around the rink twice. When he was done with me torturing him (that's how he was acting; we even had two employees of the ice rink ask if he was okay and if he needed an ice-pack) he was fine and loved it. Adam picked up one of their walkers that slide over the ice and took off. He didn't need me. Then the Olympic mascot from the Canada games "Powder" was there handing out candy and skating with the kids. That was so cool to see him. He even had a little body guard skating with him. After the initial hour the kids loved it and it was a lot of fun.

Then we went back to Carinas and colored easter eggs, and filled 265 plastic eggs for the enormous egg hunt at my moms house on Sunday. It was ridiculous, but fun! On Sunday we had Easter morning with Baskets and a big breakfast and watched conference.

Then we went to my moms house in between sessions and had lunch and the hunt.

We had to get a little bit tricky hiding the eggs because the older kids needed a challenge. Hence, the ladder. Then my sister did our 2nd annual adult easter egg hunt. It was good prizes and fun had by all. By the way, who ended up with the giant canister of cheeseballs??

And I have to end this post with the cutest picture of my adorable nephew, Bennett, who climbed into the tote that holds the 265 plastic eggs that we fill every year. He loves Easter too!

My little fish

2010-04-06T14:48:00.000-06:00

Our family decided to get Rec Center passes this year and we love it! My boys go swimming at least twice a week, They are getting pretty good at it too. Noah loves the water slides and to do flips in the water. He will put his feet over the side of the pool and lean back into the water. Then he pushes off and does a back flip all while holding his nose. It is quite impressive. He is learning to swim very easily.

Adam loves to wear his goggles and dive for diving sticks. He will get out and jump in over and over again. The other day I times him and he was doing it for over an hour. He is so cute because he wants me to watch him because he will try to do twists and flips. In his head he is doing some incredible tricks, but they all look exactly the same to me.

Seth just likes to walk around in the water. He loves to go on the big water slide with Ben, but for some reason shen I took him he hated it. He will run to the stairs to go up to the slide with Ben, but when I took him near the stairs he cried. I don't know what I do wrong. He swims until his toes, fingers, and lips turn blue and then I take him out to warm up. He loves it too.

All I want for Easter is my three front teeth

2010-04-02T14:35:00.000-06:00

When he was 4 Noah got his side tooth knocked out. Months later he lost one of his front teeth. It wasn't the one next to it so there was a tooth, gap, tooth pattern. He looked like this.

Noah just lost the last of his three front teeth last week and now he is handsome again. He says his "th" and "s" sounds like an "f" sound, but he is still cute. No more snaggle tooth for him.

I had a cute picture of him and I with our tooth gaps together, but accidentally erased it off my computer and don't know how to get it back. Boo Hoo. I will post it later if I can find it.

Soccer is war

2010-04-01T17:54:00.001-06:00

My Noah started up with his soccer team for the spring session on Saturday. He was s soldier and scored the first 45 seconds of the game. He got kicked in the gut as the keeper. Then the ball got kicked at his head and his nose started to bleed. It bled so bad that it was coming out of his mouth. He wanted a picture of him with the bloody pile of tissues. Here you go Noah, welcome to the war of soccer.

It's such a nice spring day outside...April Fools!

2010-04-01T17:33:00.000-06:00

Here is the tree in my neighbors yard yesterday afternoon.

That same tree this morning

Here is my driveway yesterday

And the same driveway this morning

Here is my side yard yesterday

And this morning

Happy April Fools Day!

Disgusting:(

I appreciate...

2010-03-17T22:04:00.000-06:00

Today I found a renewed love and appreciation for a long lost friend.
It's a place we all have been to.
We all have fond memories of them.
We all miss them.
Today I rekindled that love and appreciation by taking my kids to visit a park.
I have missed you park, and I am so excited to spend lots of time this spring and summer with you.

Let them eat cake

2010-03-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

I was asked to make a big cake for our Relief Society Birthday party this month.

I had a grand idea to order some edible images of past Relief Society Presidents and put them on the cake. It was going to be stacked and I was going to frost it ivory and place the sephia colored 3X2 images around the sides. Well, my order didn't come in time...in fact they aren't here yet and it is almost a week later. Oh well, this is plan B. I didn't get to eat any of it, but I was told it was good. That is the bad thing about decorating cakes, I never get to eat them.

I used the left over cake and frosting to make this cake with Adam. He chose these basketball guys to put on the cake for his birthday party in June. Well, of course we had to try them out. He was so proud and excited to show Noah when he got home from school. He could hardly wait to eat it as well.

Date night? What's a date night?

2010-03-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows us, knows that at this point in our lives Ben is way too busy for a date night.
This is why I am so grateful that last year we decided to split Jazz season tickets with my parents and sister. They have become a very good excuse for a date night. As long as we get a babysitter. If there is no sitter Ben takes Noah or Adam. Which is fun for them too. However, this weekend worked out great for us. We got a breakfast date (thank you Kurt and Willow), and dinner and a game.

Don't believe me? Here's proof...

Three cheers for indoor soccer

2010-03-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

It was so cold outside this winter
Noah loves to play soccer
He can't go out side to play
We signed him up for an indoor soccer team
He played on a U9 team so most of the kids were 2nd and 3rd graders
His team is mostly 2nd graders with a handful of 1st graders
They lost (well, let's be honest, got trounced) every game
But Noah had a blast!

What a cute boy!