SevenSpuds!

Check one off the Bucket List!!

2009-09-09T15:02:00.000-07:00

In 1977 I stepped out of the store where I worked in Las Vegas and fell
in love... No, not with Randy! but with a car...the Mercedes 450 SL. I vowed that I would own one before I die, and guess what... I DO!!!

We went to the car auction in Sun Valley over Labor Day weekend and there it was, a beautiful little blue hard top convertable, vintage 1975. My heart jumped right in to the car with the cute girls who were showing it off (car models).We went to watch the bidding on it and to my disbelief it didn't sell. We went over to look at it again and ended up talking to the man selling it. Much to my surprise, Dad made him an offer and he handed us the keys!!! YIPEE!!!

So here are some random pictures of my new baby...

It's got a V8 and an after market muffler... can you say VROOM!!

So, that's it... Mom got spoiled!!

Introducing Ren and Emily Guthrie

2009-09-08T12:35:00.000-07:00

They were married for time and eternity in the Idaho Falls Temple on July 30, 2009.

There were nine bridesmaids, eight groomsmen, and three precious flower girls!

The proud parents.

The gorgeous bouquet.

The sign-in table.

The centerpieces.

The yurt (the TF reception was half in, half out).

The TF cake.

The IF cake. Both gorgeous!!!

The CANDY.

The Daddy dance.

The garter.

The car.

THE END.

P.S. A note from Mom, the Ultimate Wedding Planner.

You never do it all by yourself. I couldn't have pulled it off without all my assistants: Emily was organized and decisive (WHAT EMILY!!) about her choices, and even put together an idea book for us to keep us all on the same page. Dana ran errands, baby sat and did a lot of the leg work on picking out cute stuff (dress patterns etc.) Lauren worked with Emily on the flower order and production (thank goodness I didn't have to think about that one) and Noelle took beautiful engagement and wedding pictures to make it all look flawless. Then add Ren's amazing Mom who did all the candy and made the crazy amazing cake table... look closer at the one... and was so fun to work with. And I LOVED working with Darcie at The Party Center, she helped it all come together. Last but not least... DAD who was so patient as the bills rolled in. It all turned out beautifully!

Like mother, like son?

2009-07-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

A few of us were looking at Mom's scrapbook and thought her 6th grade picture looked oddly familiar...

Emily's bridal shower!

2009-07-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

The happy couple... before we kicked Ren out.

It's kind of a joke between Emily and me... I didn't realize cupcakes were trendy right now when I jokingly suggested we use them as wedding fare. They were prefect for the bridal shower!

Settin up...

The favor boxes: "Life is the flower for which love is the honey." -Victor Hugo

The pretty momma of us all.

Little domestic wife-in-training!

Tristan and Amy playing the clothespin game...
Opening presents--Ashley, recognize this one?

More sistas and little Emrie looking cute! I think the shower turned out really well and hopefully Em got spoiled!

Happy Birthday Dear Grandma!!!

2009-05-01T15:16:00.000-07:00

We love you!

Wish we could sing to you in person! Maddie was confused when I told her we were going to sing to you and she really wanted to just hop up to Idaho. Since you're not there anyway, it wouldn't work very well... Hope you are having a fabulous time at Women's Conference!

Candid Conference

2009-04-16T17:22:00.000-07:00

I was going through my pictures today and realized that I never posted these! I just thought they were fun... I love how they just show how we are. So close as a family, and so real. Maddie, Ella, and Emrie sure are spoiled with love!

Chicka Chicka BOOM BOOM

2009-03-16T14:23:00.000-07:00

Maddie has this book memorized! The crazy thing was it only took about a week of reading it, and she could recite the whole thing! She loves letters.

You're Invited...

2009-03-02T18:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,

You're invited to a...

Even if you can only attend in spirit. :) Maddie is SO excited for Grandma & Grandpa and friends to come for her birthday!!!

Photo Contest

2009-02-12T13:34:00.000-08:00

Daddy's Treasure

Be Mine?

Love Bug

or Cupcake

This one, I just love so I wanted everyone to see it.

So, I need help choosing! There is a photo contest for the cutest kid and since Emrie is one of the cutest kids ever, along with Maddie and Ella, (sorry for bragging) I want to enter a picture of her. The contest is for $100 gift certificate to my favorite children's store. They want them doing something Valentine-y. Which do you like best/ which do you think has a chance at winning?

Thanks so much family! :)

Dressmaker, dressmaker...

2009-01-08T13:34:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to post more pictures of the beautiful dress to show off Mom's amazing work! She's got some skills!

I got it dry cleaned, but I can still see the spots where she spit up if I look close. Were they supposed to be able to get them out??? (Melinda?) I just don't want them to turn yellow in 5 years! Can't dry cleaners get almost anything out? I mean that's how they preserve wedding dresses, right? It also came back missing a button. Hmmm...

Right after the blessing day Ella broke out in horrible baby acne! I have been trying to catch a smile on camera, but this is the best I got.

Senior pics, model pics, what's the difference?

2008-11-20T19:08:00.000-08:00

Our bro is a hot tamale! What do you guys think of Cole's pics? There were so many I liked and I wanted to share them all with you! Feedback would be awesome... which ones are best? Should I make some b&w? Mom and Cole, I would really appreciate hearing from you the most!

I enjoyed doing this photo shoot a ton. Its nice to just be able to shoot without having to entertain and keep up great conversation. I especailly loved when Cole was just playing his guitar and I was just shooting away. We work well together, what can I say? I think they turned out awesome... thanks for the opportunity, Cole.

Baby Ella-to-be

2008-11-13T12:41:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd give everyone a quick baby update! At 38 weeks I am considered full term, but that doesn't mean much...

The baby has dropped, which simply means that her head presses on my pelvic bones and her shoulders are wedged between my hips. Soemtimes she hits nerves in my hips that send pulses through my legs. Walking is fun. The pregnancy waddle is a true condition, but I concentrate and try to abstain in public. Unfortunately, I have not dilated or thinned at all, so we're just playing the waiting game! At this point I am not getting my hopes up for an early delivery and am just praying for a Turkey Day at home, baby or no.

Also... it became apparent last night that we are still undecided on a middle name!!! I love Ella Mae, but Mike is not convinced. Anybody have other ideas?

The Cutest Kids Contest

2008-11-10T22:05:00.000-08:00

Here is the final product of all the best pictures. I edited them and I think they look

more vivid and colorful now. What do ya think? Mostly this is for you, Mom.

When you come by on your way to Lauren's, I'll give you the CD and send one with you for Lauren (if you want any). Some I just love of Maddie

and some I love of Emrie, so I edited each pic I liked of either even if its not great of

both of them. They are all just too cute! I don't

think there are ANY kids cuter then Maddie and Emrie!

(Hopefully you can click on this pic and get it bigger, if not sorry they're small)

80's Dance Party!!!

2008-10-19T15:18:00.000-07:00

Just give her a few notes and Maddie is dancin' a jig! Mike claims her favorites are 80's rock and anything with a little twang. HILARIOUS!

We decided to make dance parties a family tradition. Too much fun! (Mike wouldn't let me post the video on our blog, but you guys know he can be crazy!)

Little Sunshines

2008-10-17T07:21:00.000-07:00

Two of the cutest gowals in the world! Mom, I hope that at least one of these will work for your wall! I had a lot of fun shooting these crazy kids. It was a circus behind me! Everyone in the fam was trying to make Maddie and Emrie laugh and smile at the same time (which seemed to never happen) and making sure that they were both staying on the bed! Emrie would try to crawl off or toward me while Maddie was jumping around or was busy eating her chapstick. Thank goodness for that! It was the only thing that kept her happy and willing to stay on the bed. I love when they were both playing with chapstick, trying to make it look like it was a prop. :) Anyway, it was freezing outside so we opted to take them on Dana's bed... I hope we can find some that we like. I admitt it isn't my best work under the circumstances, but the girls are so cute, I'm sure we'll all agree on one! Let me know which ones you like the best so I can get to editing. I guess the best way to do it is write which numbers you like the best. Thanks!

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GOOD NEWS!

2008-10-09T00:55:00.000-07:00

Hello Family! I just wanted to let you all know that Justin was just called to be the Assistant to the President on his mission in El Salvador. He is doing so great and is really excited about his new position. He knows that he has a lot of work to do and is taking on a huge calling and would really appreciate your support and prayers. What an amazing opportunity he has been given...I am so proud of him! :)

Slacker Update

2008-09-29T19:12:00.001-07:00

So... It's been a long time... I've taken lots of pictures... so get ready for a mammoth
post!

Girls, did I get the hanging leaves right? I've been dragging out my fall decorations all day. I found that I sure have a lot of junk. Time to de-clutter I guess.

Cole had a birthday! He made it to 19 and he is still alive.
He was pretty excited about all the climbing equipment... now he just needs to learn how to use it. Are you planning a trip to Twin Falls anytime soon Dana?
Miss Emrie brought her mommy to spend a week with us. Cole decided she needed to be welcomed into Uncle Mike's flying carpet club. Weeeee!
Look Mommy, a kitty... I'm going to get that Kitty...

Come here you kitty...don't run from me....
Hey I think I got the kitty... it's not running anymore...
Look Mommy... I got the kitty!!!
We decided to participate in the Rim to Rim this year. It's a 7 1/2 mile walk/ run, starting at the Blue Lakes Country Club, coming up out of the canyon, across the Perrine bridge and back down into the canyon on the Centennial grade, and across the river on a foot bridge. We weren't the fastest, but we were glad we did it. Dad says he wants to run it next year, I'd be happy to just improve my walking time. Any joiners?

More precious Emrie antics...

We enjoyed all the hubbub in our town as the Twin Falls temple was built, opened up to the community and dedicated. It was wonderful to be part of this wonderful project. We really enjoy having the temple right down the street from us, and having the opportunity to go OFTEN!

Some older Maddie picture that were just to cute not to share!

Thanks Auntie Dana for catching the streaker!
That's my baby... She knows what a girl needs to stay cool in the LasVegas heat!
Joyful twirling... with a dress intact, thanks Elder Casperson for lending your tag.

The divine Miss Em had her 21st Birthday. I know that birthday wishes were already posted, but wanted you all to know that we celebrated properly, even if it was a bit lonely.

These are pictures from when we went to Memphis, She has grown up so much since then, but the pictures are still cute!

The Sherwood Abode

2008-09-02T11:10:00.000-07:00

For Noelle, Zak, Cole, and anyone else who wants an update:

Would you let this little hoodlum in? (She borrowed Auntie Dana's shirt to play in the rain!)

When Dana came home on Friday, this is what she found in the front room! SURPRISE!!! The family piano was totally rennovated and re-finished and Dad & Mom had it delivered as a house-warming gift. What a lucky girl, being the only one in the family that can really play the piano!

Here's a view of the inside all cleaned up wth parts replaced.

The best part is that they had the player fixed and it works now! Player pianos are so rare, it's really a relic! Below is a video of it in action.

So back to the house, here is a view from the front door. Don't mind all the clutter--it comes from having 6 visitors! Sorry D.

Here's a view from the living room to the kitchen. The new rug and pillows are gorgeous.

And now the bathrooms! Very important! Here's the master...

and the downstairs powder...

and the upstairs hall bathroom.

This is a good view of the backyard from the back door. Landon is up on the top of their property, contemplating the possibilities...

This is a view out the master windows. Not only do they live on a cul de sac, but it's elevated above the valley and they have the best view! This doesn't even show Timp off to the left.

And now a tour up the stairs.

THE GREEN LAUNDRY ROOM! Mom, Dana, and Emily were busy all weekend painting. Dana is brave and picked a crazy bright color and it turned out really cute! It will be adorable when she adds all her shelving and accents. Definitely a happy place for crafting.

Here's a sample of the paint color for the master bedroom. It's very muted but you can see the contrast between the white and blue. It's cool, calm, and beautiful.

The girls at work!

And finally, here's the brown accent wall. It actually got a coat of different brown later--more cocoa instead of reddish. But this gives you the idea.

We can't leave out a few pics of the family!

Grandpa and Maddie were always on the lookout for bugs.

Hilarious candid shot! Try to guess what everyone was thinking...

We had a great weekend together--painting, playing, a girl's trip to Tai Pan, watching tennis and college game day, going to baby Atley's blessing in Ephriam, and other various activities. Maddie loved all the attention and will be talking about everyone for weeks. Don't worry Noelle, Zak, and Emrie--we thought of you guys a lot and of course kept track of you through the storm. We can't wait to be all together again soon! XO -Lauren

Happy 21!!!

2008-08-21T10:58:00.000-07:00

Emily is offically legal! Happy Birthday Emily! I hope that you have a great one even though we're not all there to celebrate. I know you are pretty sad to miss out on another Jensen dance party! (Zak and I still laugh about the one we missed a while ago)

We got to spend time with Em in Denver for our friend's, Mark and Ashely, wedding! It was so much fun! Emily did the flowers and did an amazing job. Em, you should post your pics too. You took some good ones of your flowers. It was fun to help her with flowers and have her help with Emrie.

It rained at the temple on Friday and all day on Saturday at the reception. Ashley was such a good sport about it all, she didn't even care! The reception was at this gorgeous mansion, I should've taken pictures, it was unbelievable! We also got to stay at a friend's house that was gorgeous! It was like a bed and breakfast. We had the house to ourselves a lot of the time. It was a beautiful home right on the lake of a golf course. We slept in a huge kingsize bed! It was so fun! I wish we could go back :) Em and I had some good time to talk and good ol sis time.

Em, good luck at school! I can't wait to see you again! SYTYCD here we come!!!

(more pics of the wedding)

Letter Blocks

2008-08-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

Emily and I have been working on finishing these blocks! My sets are finally done and she is making some for a wedding gift. We thought you might want to see the finished products.

This is actually the set I made for Rachel for my pay-it-forward blog giveaway.

This is the original set I made with the ward...

...and I put Noel on the back of it. These are 5x5 blocks, the rest are 3x3.

Front...

and back.

Em and I did our BOO a little different because I bought some stickers. Anything is possible!

Back of the BOO is USA. We used cream paint which worked for both holidays. These aren't finished yet...

This is Em's Love with Noel on the back.

And here are my little girl sets for the nursery! I think Ella is the official name! :)

We have a mechanic in the family!

2008-08-03T13:57:00.001-07:00

Three cheers for Emily! She changed her own flat tire yesterday! She even left her dear Edward for a few mintues to get it done--what a sacrifice. :) We have a great video but it is too long to upload... I will work on editing it so you can see her in action.

Em did all the work herself. Mike was just the peanut gallery.

Put your weight into it!

PROOF!

Sweet Running Man

2008-08-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

So Dana thinks she can dance... anyone else?

I DIED when I came across this a little while ago when watching our famous home videos... I wanted to show Landon and Dana so bad when they came out to visit me, but I never got around to it. So here's a shout out to Landon! I wish I could be with you when you watch this... you're gonna die!

Love you, Dana! If you think this is blackmail... I have MUCH worse. So don't even think about it.

More Idaho and Maddie at Grandpa's and Grandma's

2008-06-28T19:46:00.000-07:00

I know you all have seen plenty of visit pictures if you've looked at Lauren's and Dana's blog, but I got some when they weren't around so... here we go!
While we waited on the shore at Centennial for the kayakers Maddie was fearless and would have walked right out into the river if I would have let her. We walked all along the rocks under the cliffs, she loved every minute of it!

Throw'n rocks in the river...
It's OK Lauren... Cole, Shelbe and I are all between her and the water!
Cole and Shelbe waiting their turn.
The old kid size picnic table... she loved it! I'm so glad we kept it around for the next round of little people.

WHEEEE! swing'n with Grandpa
Swing'n with Uncle Cole at the river...lots of swing'n going on!!

Is that a ball coming at my head??

Hiking at Galena summit. It was a 5 mile hike, lots of snow on the trail... the map didn't mention that! Sooo beautiful!! Yup, my hair is gone!

Titus Lake... it was the most beautiful emerald color.

We had a fun little impromptu get away at Sun Valley. After our hike we stayed at the Sun Valley Lodge, and just bummed around. Shopping... Eating... Eating...Shopping. We also rode the lift to the top of Baldy and got a great view of the whole valley. Breathtaking! Wish we could just put it in our pocket and take it with us. Idaho is truly a beautiful place to live.

Spring!

2008-06-11T22:10:00.000-07:00

Our yard is at it's best right now , so I thought I'd share the beauty! Most of this will be over by the time you get here Dana and Lauren so I didn't want you to miss out. I wish the iris would keep blooming all summer.

Now if I could just get a lily pad to live in the pond....
Now I just need grand kids playing in the back yard to make it complete!

The Little One Said Rollover!

2008-05-31T17:14:00.000-07:00

This is an exciting moment for us! Emrie finally did it! What an accomplishment for a little baby. I can't help but think that she was proud of herself too. She doesn't seem proud in this video... but she smiled when she did it for me the first time. Well, kind of. I put her down for a nap and she usually falls asleep pretty quick but she was crying pretty hard so I ran in there and she had rolled over in her bed! But then she started doing it when I put her down on the ground too. I was so excited! This take is like the 5th time she did it and it was yesterday. Today she is getitng better and better! She rolls over so fast. It was fun to see her try and get this. It is so weird hoe we don't teach them to do these things, but they just know how to do it. It is a proud parent moment for me and Zak!

Emrie also found her little toes. She's thinks its fun and its pretty cute!

Talk about pout-ee! It was so cute, I tried to get a good picture. Tears welled up and dripped out for the full effect! This girl is too precious...

Alot go'in on

2008-05-31T16:59:00.000-07:00

Our first adventure was to Las Vegas when we went down with Emily to square her away for her summer job at the Bellagio. The best part about the week was spending time with Lauren and her family. Maddie is getting so big and is as smart as they come. These are just ramdom pictures of her swimming in her little pool in the front yard and playing at the park. She is adorable!!

Let me in!!

Fun with Auntie Em

Lost in the maze

When we got home Dana and Landon came up to visit for Memorial Day. We had to hit the river... there were so many BASE jumpers jumping off the Perrine bridge. What a great way to spend the day.(canoeing not jumping off the bridge!)

Sometimes I forget how beautiful the canyon is.

Here is finally and update on the house... Most of it is done, we are just waiting for the shower door, and I have to finish the kitchen cupboards. I'm having a hard time settling down for the last stretch. I still have lots of decorating to do... and lots of pictures to hang.

I'm still looking for a rug for the living room.

We had our Great Clips mascot...Sudz... walk in the Western Days Parade. Our manager Amber seemed to be having fun inside it, and we had 4 stylists handing out goodies.

So now I'm caught up for the moment. I can't wait until Dana and Lauren come home for their birthday. Then we will be going to Memphis in July to visit Noelle and Zak and little Emrie. Lots to look forward to!

New Beginnings...

2008-05-18T17:58:00.000-07:00

I just thought that you should all know that I started my own blog for internship purposes but I thought you might all enjoy seeing what is going on in my life from week to week. The link is http://www.emilys-flowers.blogspot.com :) I love you all. xo

-Emily

Miss Me? Miss Me? Now Ya Gotta Kiss Me!

2008-05-13T12:36:00.000-07:00

Hello family! After talking to miss Laurnie today, I decided to post more pics of Emrie on our blog... its been a while! They asked for more pics cuz they miss her. Believe me, she misses all of you too!

So, this is what our day consists of... Emrie wakes up around 8:30- 9 and I feed/play with her until Zak gets back from working out with Mark. Emrie is getting so big! I wish I had one of those little seats that makes her sit up, but the boppy works too. She likes the new perspective of life when she's sitting up. She also loves to sit in the sink. If we're getting ready or if she's bored, I'll just put her in there and she talks to the faucet. Then, when Zak gets home, I either work out while he watches or we have family time. Then, he heads off to work all day. I start taking phone calls around 2-3 and we have to pack up everything to head over to the office apartment. That's where all the paperwork is that I have to get done. Then, Zak gets home and we pack everything back up and go home. Dinner is made sometimes if I feel like making it over there, but most the time you fend for yourself. We play a little and then go to bed.

Sundays are the best day because I get to get out of the house and because we get to go to our wonderful ward. They are so nice and I really like going right next to the Memphis temple. It is such a pretty temple! I can't believe we live like 2 minutes away from it. We are just right down the road. I should be used to that coming from Idaho-Utah, but I've never lived that close before.
This was taken on Mother's Day. Happy Mother's Day to Mommy and Lauren. It is a special day. I didn't know if Zak remembered that I was a mom this year so I kinda dropped some hints. He got me flowers and a card and Mark and Zak made me these really yummy crepes for lunch/dinner. I'll have to make it sometime for everyone. He is a chef! Emrie looked so cute that day with Maddie's cute dress selection, I couldn't decide what she should wear. But I love this one!
I wish you all could see her now... she is balbin like crazy and getting chubby chubby! She is so much fun now. She'll smile and squeal all the time. I've gotten a few real laughs out of her, I love it!

We love you all and can't wait to see you again! MUAH!

Prom n' Stuff

2008-04-28T20:40:00.000-07:00

The original free spirit has finally been brought to earth! They are getting married in the Logan temple, and are happy as larks in the springtime! It's hard to imagine Timmy a married man.

Prom was last weekend. Cole and Shelbe got all polished up for the event, (they clean up well, don't cha think!) Emily did Shelbe's hair, it was a cute low curly bun with a huge orange flower. Just right for her zany taste. They had the dance at a new special events center out on the canyon rim over looking the golf course. Pretty snazzy!
Cole was jazzed about his tails.
We celebrated my birthday on Monday night to take advantage of the nice weather. It was in the 70's that day so we could have yummy hamburgers on the grill, and summer salads. Emily was a great chef, and we were even able to eat outside. Too bad it is supposed to return to the 50's by tommorrow. Stinky! I love my necklace Dana, Thanks! The home crew got me a long overdue new cell phone and the ring I've had my eye on since last fall. Thanks everyone!!
We are getting our counter tops installed tommorrow... Yeah! We are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel at home. I'm waiting until everything is done to send final pictures so hold on.

I'm also looking forward to going to Women's Conference this week with my friends. I hope we can do it as a Mother Daughter activity someday.
I love you all! Mom

The old days...

2008-04-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

I had a blast from the past today. I was driving and listening to the radio and "We Belong" came on. WOW, that brings back memories. Suddenly, I was in Kelli's studio dancing with Nysje and Emily and thinking like I was in high school again. I loved spring then because we would dance with the windows open, and it was so exciting that recital was coming up soon.

Jeanie and I walked this morning and we were talking about our mom's. She said her mom wasn't around much and they didn't talked about anything. I laughed and said my mom was always around and we talked about everything!!! I don't know if it was the combination of experiences or what, but on the way home I just started balling. Life is so good for me right now, but I suddenly felt homesick! I miss living at home and having Mom and Dad to take care of me, and I miss being involved in so many fun activities.

Okay, so this is actually about 8 years earlier... but it's a lot cuter than the later ones. :) Well, I think I got it out of my system now, thanks for listening!

Making progress

2008-04-09T21:57:00.000-07:00

Of course my pictures are backwards again... the important ones are at the end. someday I'll get it right! We had a great weekend visiting with Noelle and Emrie. What a pair! Emrie is getting so big and her cuteness quotient grows right along with her weight. We loved being able to get sweet smiles out of her, and just kiss, and kiss, and kiss those cheeks. She is just soooo yummy!
We are having a hard time thinking about them moving so far away for the summer.

Also here is the update you have all bee waiting for on the house. It is starting to go back together. The floor is going in.... slowly. He is out into the living room now. We hope to have it done this week. We need base boards in the bedrooms but it's coming together. ( of course Emily's room is yet to be painted.)
I'm working on the cabinets. It's slow going. This is the hardest project of all.
We have all of Emily's stuff in our room too so we can get her ceiling down and paint. It still looks nice
Hole in the wall!
The tile in the bathroom...
No April fools.... It snowed like crazy today!

Cute baby dont'cha think!!!

Whoa honey!

2008-04-06T19:15:00.000-07:00

Just thought you guys would enjoy seeing Dana's 'enhancement'! :) hehehehehehe It was so great to have them visit! I put some more pics on our blog, and hopefully Dana will put some on her's too! Yep, you heard right, HERS!!! Check the sidebar.

Easter Weekend :)

2008-03-25T17:12:00.000-07:00

Hey family! So a lot has been going on the past week. We just got finished with our Spring Bridal and Floral Show which was kinda a big deal for me and the other girls in my major. For those of you who have never been before we basically split up into 6 groups and planned 6 different weddings. This year the theme was the creation so there was a wedding for each day of the creation. I was on line 3 so my wedding was based on the creation of land and plants. Our colors were green and brown with accents of pink and orange. It was extremely stressful to say the least but luckily our wonderful mom came up to help and saved day(something she does so very well) :) The day before the show I was assigned all of the major designs and I think they turned out pretty well. Here are some pics...what do you think? Over all it was amazing. All of the lines were beatuiful and I think that we are all glad to have it over with!

Each girl aslo makes a bouquet of their own. We were assigned flowers and this is what I came up with :)

Besides that my weekend was wonderful. Mom came to visit and although most of the time she was here we were living in the floral design lab we had a great time. She was great help with the show and afterwards we got to go to Extravadance. :) And of course we dyed Easter eggs. It was great to have family around for the holiday :)

Mom let me do her hair....what do you think? I love it! :)

You should all be very proud of Mom...she went skiing with me this weekend for the first time since she was pregnant with me and she did GREAT! Sadly the weather was not very cooperative but she was a good sport and remembered just how much she loves it!

Well I think I covered pretty much all of it! :) Justin is great. He was just trasfered to an area right outside of San Salvador. He said that it is much nicer to live there but the are will be more challenging because the people aren't quite as humble. He was also made Zone Leader so it sounds like the Lord is really challenging him. Remember to keep him in your prayers. xo

Deviled

2008-03-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

Mmmmmm, delicious. Don't they look pretty on Grandma Jensen's china?

I would like to say we have had a peaceful, uplifting Easter Sunday, but it is just not so. Our sweet little Maddie is a bit deviled herself... by those darn teeth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I needed to vent a little and thought the family blog was a good place. Today has been the worst teething day of Maddie's whole life! Church was a joke--in between me filling in for our absent chorister while Maddie screamed for me, I was in the foyer trying to keep her from melting down from pain and lack of sleep. When we got home she didn't sleep long before she woke up screeching in pain. My ear drums are numb and my nerves are shot. Unfortunately, I'm not even sure I can see a tooth yet, and we still have 12 more to go! MERCY!!

I am hoping to post a calmer, rosier account of our Easter festivities tomorrow. :)

Update on the BIG MESS

2008-03-13T21:53:00.002-07:00

You've all been asking so here's the best I can do to let you see what is going on at the old homestead.

I can never figure out how to get pictures in the right order so these are the newer ones... moving to the older ones at the bottom. The last week has been all about sheet rocking, taping and texturing, Boy what a mess! It makes such a fine dust that I feel like I've inhaled a whole house. Next comes painting. I guess that's my job. Cole and Dad say they will help. I hope so. We have to prime everything before we can get to the fun colors.

What do you think of this new cabnet color? I've got lots of work to do to get them all sanded and re'stained. The floor will be mahogony, so it is darker in some places and lighter in some.

The track lighting is all gone!! Yeah! They even got up there and repaired the sky light mess.

I can never get these pictures in the right order! these are the first day of tear down.
What a mess! Katie and I got busy on peeling the wallpaper, the scraping down the ceiling. What would I do without her!?

Walls are coming down all over the place!

Remember this sweet baby room... I painted 108 bears on the wall by hand...I needed to get a life!

Wish you could all come home so I could put you to work! Some days I feel over whelmed with what is still left to do.

I've had it!

2008-03-13T19:31:00.001-07:00

So i just got done with a seriously HUGE post and when i pushed publish it said "Error" or something like that and erased the whole thing! I am so frustrated. I might try again someday... it seems like this happens every time i try to blog... must be a sign. I am not destined to be a blogger.

WHHOAAAA..it's been a while!

2008-03-13T18:56:00.000-07:00

Okay, so i recognize that blogging has not yet become "my thing" but i am giving it another shot! Out lives have been crazy busy so here are a whole bunch of pictures or random things that we have been up to, needless to say, we always have time for some good ol' fashion FUN!

Welcome to the world little Emrie... she was so tiny and precious and make this cute little squeaky noise when she cried. She is getting so big and I LOVE being the "candy" aunt! I also got some good quality Maddie time! HOLG MOLY she is so big and when she walks she kicks her little legs out... the cutest little thing! In the top picture Maddie was trying to burp Emrie.. cute huh? I love my neices!

How could i forget little Estelle (Elle)! We can't wait to meet you! Landon's brother Stanton and wife Carly just had their 3rd... and they are all under 3! Carly is seriously "Super Mom." She is so incredible and Brock and Claudia are too much fun! See you soon! WE love you!

Sorry.. forgot to turn the first picture. I have been SO horrible and not taken ANY pictures of us skiing this season! We have had such a blast... thank you Snowbird. With all the snow this year we have been eating it up! The second picture is of me and some of the girls i work with at The Canyons... another hard day in the office!

And last but not least...

Our house!!! We are seriously so excited and cannot go a second without thinking and talking about it. The first picture is just a rendering of what it will "look like." The second is a picture of Landon kicking all the mud off his shoes on our lot! The view is so amazing... Mt. Timp and Utah Lake. They say it will be done in July, so we are planning on September. You know how it goes! Visitors welcom... but your payment for staying is laying a piece of tile before you leave! Stay tuned in for updates!

We love you all SO MUCH! XOXOXOXXXXXOOOOO-

Dana and Landon

The table!

2008-03-06T21:41:00.000-08:00

I forgot to add pictures of the new table, and thanks to everyone for pitching in. Mike was super surprised! Now we just need some visitors to come and play games with us.

Maddie actually grabbed the wrench and tried to imitate what I was doing. What a good little helper!

Whaddya think?

Random stuff

2008-03-06T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, I need your opinion. We are having Maddie's 1 year pictures and a family picture done and we want to wear white with jeans. I am having the hardest time finding a shirt! I have tried on about 20 and finally found this on clearance at Charlotte Russe. I can't decide if I like it because of all the ruffles. Dana and I were just laughing about the ugly poet's blouses we used to wear! :) Give me your honest opinion--will this work or should I go with some more basic? Sorry about the dumb self-portrait.

Also, I am erasing texts from my phone and I thought you might want these Noelle! They are from the day Emrie was born and they have times on them so they could help you remember the sequence of events. I don't know if you care but I hated to just erase them into oblivion!

Jan. 24 Noelle: "Just got done with the doc... He stripped my membranes so I could have her this weekend but prob. not. I'm still almost a 2... 75% efaced. Look on blog tonight!"

Jan. 25 9:06 am Dad: "Just got the call! Noelle is at the hospital with Zak and they want to keep her! Contractions closer and more intense. Come into our world little Emrie! xo"

11:30 am Dad: "Zak just sent a text...she is dilated to a 4 and has had her epidural... little Emrie is on her way on Jan. 25, 2008!"

11:55 am Zak: "She is now at a six and doing great. She's sleeping and baby is still good too. Waiting for water to break."

1:04 Zak: "Ok here we go...Water just broke and she is a ten... Unreal how fast it's going. Will commence pushing in thirty minutes... Whoa."

The next text is a picture of Emrie with a little hat and diaper on with the doc checking her heartbeat! There isn't a time on picture texts, but you know the time she was born! YAY, she made it! Also, Noellie, did the blessing write-up look okay? It was so hard to catch everything but I think we got the jist of it.

Thank You Note

2008-03-05T09:39:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,
I wanted to thank you all for so many things! This past weekend was so wonderful and I am so glad that you all were able to come down (or up.) Dad, thanks for being such a good sport and paying for food even though there are a ton of us. We need to start paying for ourselves...also thank you for being a part of the circle. I know that it meant a lot to all of us, Zak, me, and Emrie.
Mom, of course, thank you for making Emrie's beautiful dress! I abosultely think that she was the prettiest thing in the world.
Dana, Lauren, Mom thank you for making food. I don't know what I'd do without you guys! Also, thank you for the letters for my blocks and the baby clothes Lauren. I'm excited to make them!
Grandma, if you look at this, thank you so much for making her quilt. We all think it is one of the best quilts you've made. It is beautiful. I love this picture even though poor Emrie was hungry and crying... Great Grandma, Grandma, Mom, and Daughter. Wow, 4 generations! Dana, thank you for making her bow. I get comments on how cute her bows are all the time!

Emily, thanks for helping out with Emrie all weekend. You are going to be a great mom someday.

Cutest girls in the world! Maddie and Emrie are going to be knock outs... here's a shout out to Maddie... HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

And last but not least, the Uncles...Landon and Mike, thanks for being in the circle. Emrie loves you guys. Cole, thanks for coming. I know you had to work and are busy with friends. I really wanted you to meet her and be there for her blessing. It meant a ton to me. We need to spend more time together. I miss you!

We had a great weekend with everyone... can't wait to see everyone again. Loves from the Murrays!!!

Reflections of a proud grandma

2008-02-23T14:34:00.000-08:00

These pictures are old now( way to grow Emrie!), but I just wanted to share a few of the fun ones that I took when i was in Utah...

Goin' home

Isn't this tired little family so cute! Look at that little foot!

I actually had a hickie on my chin all week.

Just for fun... this is Noelle as we left the hospital.

Isn't she a cutie!

Just thought it might help as we watch to see who Emrie will end up looking like.

I'm sure glad that I got to spend time with this sweet new little family. I LOVE grandbabies!!!!!

Emily rocks in Rexburg

2008-02-23T13:24:00.000-08:00

Here's a little closer picture of Miss Emily with her 'Hairspray' hair for her performance. She did such a wonderful job. The whole presentation was first rate. I've tried to get the video to upload , but it's just not going to happen. You will just have to watch it on my camera next week!

Nakie Maddie!!!

2008-02-23T13:21:00.000-08:00

I was getting ready for stake enrichment meeting this morning so Mike gave Maddie her bath and got her dressed. He brushed her hair to the side to look like a boy. Mike thinks she looks like the future Tyler Andrews! :)

She is hardly ever in just her diaper becasue she knows how to take it off! Warning: bum shots!

Whew! When I got home I helped her look like girl again!

A hello from Iceburg!

2008-02-21T15:47:00.000-08:00

Hey Family. After Lauren's post I decided that I better got on the ball and let you know how my life is going here is Rexburg....things are going. School is pretty good...right now I am just working on finding an internship...hopefully in Las Vegas so we will see how that goes. Ski class is great, its been cancelled a lot because the roads have been closed but we finally got to go last week and it was beautiful...I am very slowly getting better but I don't think I will ever be able to keep up with Justin. oh well. Socail life is pretty good. I have recently made a really good friend that I spend all my time with now. Her name is Laura Comish, she is from South Carolina. :) I took her home with me this weekend and we had so much fun, she loved Twin Falls. She might be joining me on the voyage down to Utah for Emrie's blessing so there is a chance you will meet her. Other than that life is pretty much the same. The temple dedication went wonderful...it was an amazing expereince dancing at the celebration...Elder Nelson and Bednar were there. :) It's nice to finally be done but I'm kinda sad that it is over.

Justin is going great. He's pretty blessed and seems to have baptisms every week. He says that the people down there are so humble and ready to be taught and he just loves it. I got a letter this week telling me all about the people he is teaching and the things he is doing. He says that he actually feels bilingual now. He was just made District leader a few weeks ago so he has a lot of responsibilities now but he is loving every second of it.

Here are a few pics of Justin with the people he has baptized and their families...doesn't he look so skinny?

Anyway fam...I can't wait to see you all. I miss you and love you very much. xoxo

The Princess Talent

2008-02-17T20:59:00.000-08:00

You gotta see what Maddie did the other day! She love, love, LOVES her princess car and I honestly don't know how I would cook without it. I know that sounds weird, but it is the toy that stays downstairs and she can walk it all over the house and push all the buttons... so I can cook dinner! This is her newest talent:

So what has everyone else been up to? I know Mom wanted to post pics of being Grandma for almost two weeks... but what about the rest of you? I feel especially out of the loop on EMILY! I talk to you here and there, Em, but I don't get the details. How was the dancing dedication? How is school, roommates, LIFE??? Do you take pictures of anything? Like all the fun flowers you are doing? Well, you should! :)

I can't wait to see everyone at little Emrie's blessing! I know it is going to be a crazy weekend with all the friends and family in town. Noellie, I know it can be overwhelming but I'll do anything I can to help! And just so you all know, since we ignored Mike's family last time we were in Utah, we will be spending some time with them too. We are hoping to have a family party on Saturday night for all the birthdays, and Rachel invited us to spend a night at their cabin in Midway. Plans are still in the works. Speaking of birthday parties, do you guys want to do something for Maddie? We are having a big, all out ladybug party and BBQ for her here on March 8th, but if you want to do a family party so you can be part of the big ONE, I am game. What are your opinions???

Reflections of a proud Grandma

2008-02-10T21:45:00.000-08:00

I'm hoping that this will show up even if it won't on my draft. I know that you all have been waiting to see emily trip the light fantastic! She is the cutest on out there and I was so proud of her!

Vegas to Provo... A Road Well Traveled!

2008-02-04T17:55:00.000-08:00

Emrie is so glad to have so many people around her that love her! It is so nice to have Dana and Landon so close. It is going to be hard to not want to see you guys every week or more! Dana loves to hold little Em like this... she is such a cuddle bug.
Grandma and Emrie sure to love each other. What are we going to do without her!?
Maddie and Emrie meet for the first time!

Aunt Lauren is finally an Aunt! She loved to hold the little tiny baby :)

Aunt Lauren, Uncle Mike, and cousin Maddie came to visit little Emrie for the weekend! It was so fun for Maddie to meet her soon to be best bud! It is funny how a year seems like a big difference now... but soon it won't be a big deal at all. Maddie wanted to get baby's toes and touch her face and just wanted Emrie to be a little playmate! It was fun to have you here, Lauren! Grandma loves all the attention Maddie gives to her too. I think she is a proud Grandma of two beautiful little girls! She sure loves to spoil them... Emrie's outfit is compliments of Grandma. She is so tiny that ALL her clothes that she has filling her closet and dresser won't fit until later and she only had a few things to wear. Sad:( So, Grandma went shopping and found the cutest things!

Emily, Cole, and Grandpa... you were greatly missed. We had fun, but it wasn't complete. Emily, we needed your smiles and love. Cole, we needed your silliness and entertainment. Grandpa, we needed your love for us ALL and your good conversation. I missed that... and you needed bonding time with baby. Grandma has been such a help around the house and with Emrie that I can't thank her enough. I feel so blessed to have such a good mother that loves me and Emrie and takes care of us so well. I think she is being missed at her own home, what do you think Dad? Do you want her back??? I can see why! She takes care of all of us! Love you all!

The dresser is done!

2008-01-30T15:40:00.000-08:00

So I finally finished painting and glazing the dresser. I think it turned out pretty well. The glazing on the mirror turned out a little too bold for me, but it goes pretty well. What do you think? the only problem is that I can't find drawer pulls the right size anywhere... I need 4 1/4" and most come 3" to 3 1/2". I might have to special order or something.

Mike also talked me into doing a quick coat on my old dresser so they match. Hope you don't mind Mom! It looks soooo much better and makes the room all come together. We want to get matching knobs for this too. I wish I could find some that are the same kind of metal as our curtain rods and hold backs (below). Now all we need is a dark wood headboard and nightstands! Someday...

LITTLE Emrie Jade Murray!

2008-01-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

She's here! She is so beautiful.... words or pictures don't do her one ounce of justice. Here are some pictures for you all to enjoy. I am also posting some of Landon's oryx hunt! He had such a blast and I am so proud of him! Way to go guys!

Sorry, i guess i should be a little more particular... she is 5 pounds 14 ounces. She is seriously TINY! She is just gorgeous.

Holidays!

2008-01-21T15:45:00.000-08:00

Hey everybody! So yesterday Mike and I were talking about his paid time off and paid holidays and thinking that we should outline a plan for how we will use it this year. Since it depends a lot on how all of you spend your holidays and birthdays, I thought we could get some discussion going so we can coordinate! I love spending any holiday as a family. Remember how fun President's Day was when we went ice skating? And we always love the fireworks together. Halloween was fun last year, and of course next Christmas is at home--YAY! This is by no means set in stone... just to get the juices flowing...

Emrie's arrival! SOON! -We are hoping to come the weekend after she is born
President's Day -Mike has a day off but we don't know what to do
Emrie's blessing, March? -We'll be there!
Maddie's 1st birthday! -Maybe celebrate in Utah on blessing weekend? If not, you are all invited to Vegas!
Easter
Noelle & Mom's birthdays
Memorial Day
Dana & Lauren's birthday -I want to be together this year, twiner!!
Dad's birthday and 4th of July -We are open to anything... Bear Lake?
Labor Day
Emily's birthday
Cole's birthday
Halloween
Thanksgiving -In-laws
Christmas -HOME!!!
New Year's

Rexburg...

2008-01-15T12:28:00.000-08:00

Hey family. I don't have any pictures to post cuz I am at the school but I just have a second of extra time so I thought that I would write a short little post and let you know how school is going. Everything has been going good so far. My classes seem to be pretty easy thus far but I haven't had them all yet. Most of my classes are either Horticulture classes or dance classes which is kinda nice. Its great to be able to take classes in things that I love :) This may come as a surpirse to you all but I am taking a clogging class this semester! :( BOO! But i thought that I should give it a try instead of being a hypocrit and knocking it before I try it! Its pretty interesting...its a beginning class so the basics of it are a lot like tap. The teacher told me I will probably get bored but thats alright it will be fun right? So anyway. Justin is doing great, I am listening to his voice recording right now and he said they had 7 investigators at church on Sunday and 162 people there all together! :) He said that he has a few baptisms coming up on the 26th so make sure to pray for him and the people he is teaching! And I know this may seem like a CRAZY idea but he would love to hear from all of you. Don't feel obligated but he doesn't get many letters and he loves all of you and would love to hear about what is going on with you! :) So anyway. That is all that is going on with me! Well I love you all. Can't wait to see you all when we join to welcome little Emrie! :) xoxo

Hey ya'll...

2008-01-10T14:43:00.000-08:00

Now that Noelle & Zak have their own blog, we need to step it up on the Seven Spuds! It seems like Noelle was our most consistent poster. So if something exciting happens in your life, be sure to tell us about it, pictures or not! The more you practice, the easier it is, and it only takes a few minutes. Let's make the most of this tool to stay connected to one another. XOXOXO -Lauren

Pink dots, it is.

2008-01-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

Well, the poll was close, but since the mama and papa to be like the pink dots, they stay! Maybe we'll change again once Emrie has her very own blog.

Home. We're home. But I miss home.

2008-01-02T14:02:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning (to Maddie calling me of course) and just wished I could sleep the day away, not only because I feel super sleep-deprived, but also so I wouldn't have to face reality. Withdrawl is no fun... I figured I could wallow in my misery. I tried the sleeping-in-thing, but Maddie would have none of it. She was crawling all over me by 7 a.m. and wanted me to get up and play. After breakfast I tried to entertain her but I could tell she missed the attention from her adoring fans. When it was finally nap time I thought maybe I could sneak a few extra winks and keep avoiding the call of duty... but no luck. I read my book in bed for a few minutes and right as I was falling asleep Maddie woke up and wouldn't go back to sleep. After we both shed a few tears I realized that not only was I making myself miserable, but I wasn't being a very good mommy either! So I finally got up, shook off my blues, and got to work.

Maddie misses the kitty. (This is a video.)

It's funny that on the very day I want to curl up and do nothing, I have a million things to do that can't wait. Like refill the fridge that's full of expired food so we can eat dinner. And wash the heaps of clothes from the long trip so we have something to wear. And organize the huge mess so I don't go crazy!!! And even though I wasn't looking forward to any of this it is actually somewhat cathartic, and now I feel a little better. I still miss you all soooooo much, but at least we have memories and pictures to fall back on.

Whenever I feed Maddie Spaghettios I will think of Emily doing the airplane with the spoon while Maddie squealed in delight. And when I push Maddie on her new princess bike I will think of everyone zooming her around the table! I think all three of us will miss cable--Maddie seemed to enjoy watching the games with Zak and Daddy. I love remembering Maddie perched on top of Noelle's tummy and wearing Cole's beanie. It was so sweet to turn around at the bowling alley and see Landon showing Maddie the Christmas tree. And who could forget Dana being beaned in the head with a shrimp? :) That dinner was so tasty and fun! Thanks for the treat Dad. And Mom, thanks for all you do to make our house a home, and for making Christmas magical every year. Like Dad said as we left, time with family is celestial.

What could it be?

Trumpet lessons

Playing beauty parlor with Grandma

Feeling Emrie move
Mike and his artistic shots

A last goodbye to the munchkin all buried in the backseat!

Lastly, just a couple of FYI's. I got my cholesterol results in the huge pile of mail we got yesterday. Drumroll please... 220!!! I don't know if it's from walking more or eating better or if it's even accurate, but I'm happy! (Two years ago it was 295 for those who don't know). At least now my doctor won't push Lipitor on me. And if you want to raise your cholesterol a bit, here's the recipe for that yummy quiche we had: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Quick-Quiche/Detail.aspx. Print it off and put it in the breakfast section of your new cookbook!

Love you all,
Lauren

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-20T05:52:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you all are ready cuz its right around the corner... I'm sure not! It came so fast, dontcha think? Why does time have to go by so fast? I love the holidays and it will be over too soon this year. We have been really busy this month... maybe that is why! So I thought I'd post about it :
For FHE Zak would say I "made" him make a gingerbread house with me! It was fun... he is too cute watching him do crafty things with those huge hands. He decorated the tree and the gingerbread men. (If you take a closer look, you might see it was all him!)

It was a fun little date... you might be curious what is behind the house... yes, it a firetruck pinata! Where the heck did that come from? Pretty random, I know! I found it at Roberts and got it for Zak for his fire school graduation which is what made Decemeber go by so fast!

Zak was asked to speak at his graduation... he is sucha good public speaker. He had every one of his classmates and both his parents, and me, in tears! He just knows how to get to the heart :)
I am SO PROUD of him! have I said that before??? I couldn't be more proud of him I don't think! He really proved a lot to me, himself, and his instructors. Can I brag about him anymore!?
This is the cool plaque that each class that comes through the school makes for the wall. Their's was the best I think anyone's ever seen! It probably weighs about 40 pounds though... we'll see how they'll keep it on the wall. Those are all his certifications that he's holding along with his CHEESE smile!
CHEESE again! :) He got that cool pinata from me and the album... I went to his school the day before to take a group picture(below) for their plaque and I was able to stay and snap as they worked putting the fire out in the building. It was pretty awesome to see what Zak has been doing all semester. He was the captain so he was in charge of everyone on the radio outside the building. It was so cool! So the album was full of all the pics for memories.
Well, I hope everyone will have a Merry Christmas! I can't wait to see you all at home for New Years! I can't wait to give you guys our presents :) We love you!

Noelle and Zak and little Emrie too!

Christmas Stockings

2007-12-14T10:23:00.000-08:00

Here's the other pair, just in case you wanted to see them. What a great dollar store find!

I just thought I would show off Maddie's festive tights from Grandma! She was dressed up yesterday because we had 3 couples over for a little Christmas party/dinner.

What has everybody been up to lately? Emily, are you done with finals yet? Mom, how was Enrichment? Noelle, only 45 DAYS TO GO! I can't believe it! How are the prenatal classes going? Are you feeling more prepared? Dad & Dana, I have talked to you more recently... and Cole, have you ever even looked at the blog??? You should! :) We all want to hear from you.

Graduation!

2007-12-10T09:34:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! I just wanted to post real quick to let everyone know that Zak will be graduating from the Fire Academy on Thursday! I am soooooo proud of him! He has worked so hard and it sure has paid off! I think you all know that he was asked to be the Class Officer half way through the class... he is sucha stud! Also, he is still in the top 3 of his class. They all fight for the number 1 spot... so it changes from time to time. Anyway, just wanted to let you all know he can be a working firefighter from this Thursday on! He is planning on doing a lot of volunteer work and also will be taking a 2-day class in January before little Emrie comes. This is a really cool thing cuz you aren't supposed to go if you aren't on a department, but Zak talked to his teacher and they got him in! It is in St. George... so he might be staying over a night with Lauren and the Maddiekins! Just congratulate him if you talk to him! :)

Love you guys!
Noelle

Ketchup... or Catchup????

2007-12-01T15:35:00.000-08:00

I know the title is a little random, but I really wanted to catch up with everyone because it has been a while since I have posted! Also, have you ever wondered why Ketchup is spelled different depending on what brand you buy.... deep thought?????

WELL, Landon and I have been crazy busy lately! I started working about one month ago for Snowbird Ski Resort in the HR/ Recruiting Office and it has been awesome! We have been on the go constantly and i thought i should let everyone know what we have been up to.

We had a great Thanksgiving except for the fact that i got a speeding ticket on the way home from work, forgot the sweet potatoes i made at home (we turned around to go get them and that added 2 hours on to our trip... talk about sweet potato dedication), and we all got sick! Sounds great huh? Well, it really was! I love you family! Thanks for everything. Here are some of the things we have been doing....

I got to play with Ashley and Kinsey!!! I love you guys! You really are the best! I somehow look like a total cheeseball in this picture and like i am slouching???? I dunno.

Landon and I went to our first Jazz game!!!!! We can call ourselves true Utahans now! His company has their own VIP suite and we got to sit up there and feel all important and stuff! It was great.

Have you seen cuter boys???? I sure haven't. Bryce got MARRIED and we are sooooo happy for him. His wife's name is Sarah and she is a beautiful girl! Way to go Bryce. Spencer... we are still rooting for you big time! Landon had so much fun being with old roomies and best buds and I know he wishes he could see them more.

And boy oh boy did it SNOW! Hey, this is called "job security" for me! It was quite the storm and brought about 8 inches to the valley. We were on our way to New Mexico for some baby blessings and Stanton's (Landon's brother) famous Chrismas Party. We got a couple miles up Price Canyon and had to turn around. There was probably about 10 inches on the road and we had nowhere else to go but up... so we decided to turn around. We are so sad that we are not there and love them so much! We can't wait to go down for Christmas and spend some time there.

Some other things that have done but don't have pictures to prove are:

We went to St. George to visit one of Landon's very best friends, Jerry. We love their family so much: Kathryn, Landon, and Lauren. It was soooo good to see them and they were the most gracious hosts. Thanks for the great visit.

Landon also went hunting like 3 weekends in a row! He was hunting elk in New Mexico and deer here in Utah. He didn't get an elk but he got himself a really nice buck! Way to go honey! His dad came to hunt too, his cousin Logan came, as well as Jerry. They had such a good time and made some great memories. I don't have any pictures on my camera of the buck but he is really proud of it and i am so happy for him. He has been working on mounting the antlers and we have had a great time eating the meet. I know i know... yuck. I was super sceptical about it but this one sure is yummy! It really is better than beef to me... well at least this one.

I think that about wraps it up! We are so excited for Christmas and can't wait to go home and see everybody. I love Christmas!!!!! We love you all!

Come get me!

2007-11-29T15:05:00.000-08:00

'Member how Maddie wouldn't really crawl over Thanksgiving? I don't know why but as soon as we got home she was all over the place! She follows me like a little puppy! Here is a video of me saying "Come and get me Maddie!" She thought it was pretty funny... she giggles easily lately. Enjoy! (P.S. You can pause the music.)

Family Time!

2007-11-26T07:33:00.000-08:00

Zak and I had such a fun time seeing everyone over Thanksgiving! I love getting together as a family and enjoy just spending quality time together. This Thanksgiving was especailly memorable cuz we all got sick! :) We LOVE you, Lauren! Its ok... we are so glad that we got to see you, Mike, and Maddie. I think we all would take being sick over not seeing you guys. Dana and Landon... you'll have to let us know if it skipped you! I think my favorite thing that we got to do was decorate the Christmas tree downstairs. Even though I was still sick and put up like 2 things, it was still fun! I can't wait to see everyone again. I love the holiday season! :)

Anyway, so here are the results of the family pics! They turned out really good, I think. Everyone needs to vote on their favorite and also tell me what you don't like about them and I can try to fix it. I'm not a magician, but I can do some cool things! For example, I can't put a smile on Maddie or make her look at the camera, but if you like one of the pics better with her looking backwards, I can paste her head in from the one that she is looking at Mike :) So, let me know! Also, does everyone just want a CD of the pics? I can e-mail them also and you can do what you want with them that way too.

I love you all!
Noelle

Catching up!

2007-11-12T08:42:00.001-08:00

Hi Family!
It has been so long since I have posted ANYTHING here on the ol' website! I have to apologize about that... I guess I feel like I have nothing exciting to say. But, I realized the other day that I am pregnant with your niece or grandchild and maybe you'd like to know what is going on! So here is an update:
Little Emrie is moving a TON! She is having so much fun in my tummy right now. We call her our little jumpin bean :) She moves mostly after lunch when she is awake and fed! Sounds like Maddie! She also likes to move a lot at night when I laying in bed or when I am sleeping. She wakes me up a lot of the time. Sleeping has gotten to be a little harder these days. I toss and turn a lot and am "restless" Zak says, which wakes him up too. Oops! We went to the BYU/TCU game last Thursday night with Apx friends and she must be Zak's little girl because she was dancing to the drums and getting excited when BYU would score! It was pretty funny!
She is about 15 inches long now and a little over 2 pounds. So, long and skinny! I am still trying to figure out how she is laying in there. She likes to stick either her bum or her back out a lot so I look lopsided! She is has a regular sleep pattern and is awake some of the time. I want to try to figure it out so I can understand what she likes for when she gets here. (I on't know if that helps.) She has most of her hair and even her eye lashes and eye brows have grown in. I hope she has Zak's long eye lashes! She also has her fingernails all grown in too.
She is just going to be here in no time and Zak and I are so excited! Thank you for all the gifts that you gave me at the baby shower. I LOVE every single thing I got! You should all be receiving your Thank You cards soon! :) I have everything now in the closet all ready to go! I just need the crib, dresser, and paint the shelf to get it looking ready. Also, we are starting our prenatal class this week!
As for everything else... Zak is doing REALLY well at school. His instuctors rated him in the top 3 in his class. I am really proud of how well he is doing. Work is going good for me and we are so excited to come home for Thanksgiving! Don't forget your outfits for pictures! Also, we just got back from Rexburg this past weekend. I got to see Emily, Ashley, and all our friends. It was really fun and needed! Em, call me! I hear we need to talk! :)
Well, sorry I don't have any pics to post... BORING! But, I just wanted to update you all and tell you how much I love you! :) See you all VERY soon!
Love, Noelle, Zak, and Emrie

More images of Halloween

2007-11-05T21:29:00.000-08:00

I thought I should hurry and post the silly Halloween pics. off my camera. Enjoy!
We had a silly fairy fashion show... cute belt Landon!

Emily, you bad panda!

Here's the other group of farm animals....
Maddie found a tractor her own size.
Daddy is soooo funny

Cole (Mr. Ice cream cone) and asst. friends are off to trick or treat. Yes that is a tele tubby in the back!!

The fallen angel got her cowboy
Some more silly fairies etc. Zak, who would have guessed you had a soft side!
Is that rocky racoon or a flying squirrel? Oh... it's just Noelle being squirrely
Dana is the sassiest fairy queen
Isn't it fun to get together! I'm so glad that you all enjoy the silly side of life. May it ever be so!

Noellie ( and Emrie) get spoiled

2007-11-05T20:38:00.000-08:00

We had a great time on Oct 27th having a party to welcome little Emrie. Now Noelle has lots of cute baby stuff to look at and dream of her sweet bundle of joy!!

I learned the hard way that you should post the pictures you want last first, as it is you have to enjoy these backwards!!

Daddy came to see all the stuff and entertain Maddie and Kensie (Ashley's baby)
Come on Emrie, hurry up so we can take you for a walk!

Grandpa Murray picked out a cow toy
Yup... that's to hide under... Good thinking Aunt Lauren!
Auntie Dana made sure they would have all the nessessities to hit the road
Aunt Emily got crafty and made this cute magnetic board

How big is the tummy???
The spoils.... that's sure a lot of loot!

Merissa made a cute towel

A little peek...

2007-10-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

I had to try all Maddie's costume parts on for size and the result was too cute for words! I thought I would tease you with a little peek until you see her in person! I was also looking up things we could do on Saturday afternoon/evening and I have always wanted to go to the corn maze that you pass at Pleasant Grove on 1-15. They also have a Haunted Hayride , a pumpkin patch, and good food. Look here: http://heehawfarms.com/info.htm. What do you think?

Trading old for new

2007-10-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

They did it! Zak and Noelle traded in the old Honda(sad!) for a beautiful 2004 charcol grey Accord! It's big and roomy, with plenty of room for Emrie and grandma in the back!!

A new and improved version, you just can't beat a Honda!

While they were here Zac treated us to a glimpse of his day at the Fire Academy. They have to get into their fire suit in 45 seconds or less. Watch the master at work. He made it in 42 seconds!

Cant wait to see you all next weekend!

The Maddie Show--Live!

2007-10-14T09:55:00.000-07:00

Grandma & Grandpa came got to come see her in person! It has been so fun to have them here. Mom and I made a slideshow of the trip for you all to enjoy. It's kinda long, so make sure you watch the whole thing!

weekend in utah

2007-10-12T19:03:00.000-07:00

Hey...I am just posting some pictures from this weekend that Noelle and Dana wanted! So here they are! It was great to see them. Emrie is getting so big...I can't wait to meet her! Love you all!

good news everyone!

2007-10-11T23:11:00.000-07:00

Hey there Family. I just wanted to tell all of you my extremely exciting news....I was chosen to dance for the Rexburg temple dedication on Feb. 2 :) I wasn't originally chose as one of the fifteen but through Annmarie Hawk's I got the open spot when a girl was not able to commit. So thanks to her I now have the opportunity to dance in front of our sweet Prophet! :) I can't tell you how excited I am....it will be an amazing experience and I hope that some of you can make it to watch me. Well thats all. I love you.
~Emily

Grandma came to play!

2007-10-11T19:25:00.000-07:00

We took a walk to the park and played on the swings. Maddie was delighted to laugh at Grandma! Maybe on Sunday we will post a slide show of the fun visit... oh and sorry it's sideways! You can't rotate a video.

HOT HOT HOT!

2007-10-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

Hello family! Its been a while since I've posted anything! Sorry about that... I just wanted to let everyone know that Zak started the Fire Academy on Monday and how things are going. He goes from 7-5 everyday except Wednesdays. They have personal training as soon as they get there, then school... school...school. That is the schedule for now atleast. Zak says he is going to like it and he is already learning a lot. How could you not sitting in a classroom for 8 hours?! But, as time goes on they will be out on the course that they have set up for just them. Houses and cars that are lit on fire, roofs they have to saw a hole in, learning how to use a ladder properly... etc. You'll have to ask him more about it, but he tells me that its going to be hard, but very worth it. :) As for me and Emrie... I'm getting big! Dana and Emily can attest to that! Its fun that Emrie is growing so much and to be able to talk to her and feel her move everyday is such a joy. I can't wait til Zak can feel her too! Every time he puts his hand on her, she stops! Anyway, just wanted to show off my hot firefighter and let you know that we love all of you! Miss you and talk to you soon... Zak, Noelle, and Emrie

Uh-oh...

2007-10-07T15:26:00.000-07:00

Uhhh...hi kids...somehow I knew my past would catch up with me. I sincerely regret those days of living on the lamm, being on the run, trying to avoid the deputies that wanted to nail my hide in Kalamazoo. Well, to make a long story short...they found me. Actually, I was kinda glad. I was tired of always looking over my shoulder, wondering if and when I'd be recognized. The year was 1975...the crime was celebrity impersonation...not so serious in Kalamazoo but quite serious in Hollywood, where the warrant for my arrest was sent out to law enforcement across the country...and yes, even in Kalamazoo. Don't recall why I was in Michigan exactly...probably trying to avoid all the autograph seekers that would hound me to death. Who woulda thought that a donut-eating deputy at a Dunkin' Donuts in Kalamazoo would spot me eating a creme-filled double-chocolate bizmark with rainbow sprinkles and realize he had a look-a-like with an outstanding warrant on his head. The deputy was a real 'Barney Fife' type...you know...real skinny, too much energy, dumb-lookin', you know the type, and the only cop on duty at 6am in Kalamazoo but he nabbed me. The rest is history...I tried to cover up my run-in with the law but some lame-brain in Kalamazoo posted some old town mug shots on the internet. So, I'm coming clean...your dad is an old ex-con. I'm really sorry. If you want, we can all meet at a Krispy Kreme and I can tell you all about it...I'll be danged if I'll ever step one foot in another Dunkin' Donuts!

Dad xo

College!

2007-10-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

Well hello family. Its been a long time since I posted but I now have my camera cord so I can put some pictures up. Things here have been good. I have just been going to school and doing my best to pass my classes and working mostly. I have a ton of fun with me room mates especially Ann and Misty! :) I love them! And I just recently made the cheer squad so that should take up some of my time and keep me busy...I'll let you know how it goes. :) Justin is doing great. He got a new companion which he was excited about and they are teaching quit a few people. So anyway...I'm coming to Utah for conference with my roomies and I am super excited to see some of you! Miss you all!

Thats my roomies...only we are missing Ann :(

And here we are missing Alysha :(

These are pretty much my best buds up here! I love them! :)

At the football game :)

Dancing at work!

And last of all that is some of my cheer squad...they weren't all there yet!

Anyway I love you all and will see you soon! Hope all is well with everyone! xoxo

Let's get together, ya ya ya!

2007-10-01T22:25:00.000-07:00

Maddie sucking on an apple slice

Is the last weekend in October still good for everyone? Noelle & Zak, can we use your place as a central location? Any ideas to keep us all busy? I say let's find something to celebrate Halloween so you can see Maddie's ladybug costume! (hopefully) Mike's brother is expecting the birth of his son that very weekend, so we may be side-tracked at some point, but we want to see as many of you as we can for as long as possible! It's been tooooooooo long. :)

2007-09-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

THE BIG 18! Cole has been on this sweet earth for 18 big ones! He keeps wondering why it took so dang long. So now he thinks he's legal and independent...as if he wasn't independent before! Happy Birthday old buddy. As you can see, Cole was a little more thrilled to get a new camera for his birthday than he was blowing out his candles and listening to us sing. It was nice of Zoelle to come help us celebrate. I attached a couple or three pics of them with us after church on his big day. And Noelle made that cool cake...she said if you look close it says Happy Birthday...kind of abstract! Well, it took a full Act of Congress, and a little tutoring from the family photog expert, Noellie, but I did it! I downloaded and posted all these pictures on the blog (with some help from Laurnie too for the ones that were sideways). Maybe not in the right order, but you get the idea. Enjoy. GRANDPA J

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LANDON!!!

2007-09-25T10:28:00.000-07:00

I forgot to acknowledge that it was also Landon's birthday on Saturday. He had to share his special day with Megan, but we had a big family lunch and cake. It has been 7 years since he has been with his family for his birthday so even though he had to share it he was glad to be home. I just love Landon so much... he is such a supportive and always happy influence in my life. Happy birthday honey!

2007-09-24T10:30:00.000-07:00

Hi everybody! This past weekend was sure crazy! Megan and Seumas got married and it was all so much fun! I have to admit... I LOVE weddings. They are so much fun . I think that my dream job would be to be a wedding planner with my sisters... you are all so talented! The wedding was in Logan and the reception was at the Stake Center in New Mexico. So there was a lot of traveling and TOO many late nights! Gregg had the whole reception engineered with blueprints and all, which is not suprising if you know Gregg. Megan and I got really close when she lives with us and it was neat to see all the planning and ideas come together... it was SOOOO beautiful!

I still can't really figure out this posting thing! Can someone please teach me how to rotate the pictures????? :) and delete them???

Anyway, Noelle took the pictures at the temple and did such an amazing job! She really should think about getting a website and a business card! She really impressed everybody and they all couldn't believe that a pregnant girl would lay down on the ground just to get the right shot! GO Noelle! Here is one of my favorites! I saved it wrong so it is small, but you get the picture... right? Beautiful isn't it?

hello...helloooo??

2007-09-24T10:23:00.002-07:00

Hey there familia! Sorry its been so long. It seems that all of us have fallen of the face of the planet. But don't worry I'm still here! I just wanted to post and tell everyone hello from the bubble :) Things in Rexburg are good. I am just going to classes and working. I am actually thinking about trying out for the cheerleading squad...try outs are Tues. and Thurs. so I'll let you know how they go. Coley I hope that your birthday was fabulous....I can't wait to see some of those pics you are taking with your shnazzy new camera pop up on th blog :) I hope that everyone is doing well! I miss you all and love you to the ends of the earth an back ;)

Love~Em

Lombard St. in San Fran

2007-09-22T19:25:00.001-07:00

Hey guys...here's a cute picture I love of Noelle and Emily from our San Francisco trip!
GRANDPA J

Yes I noticed the ignoring of the tag! :)

2007-09-19T21:19:00.000-07:00

You stinkers... I guess I already know a lot about you but I was trying to get you to post more since this blog was pretty slow for awhile! So keep posting!

ANOTHER GIRL FOR THE FAMILY FULL OF GIRLS!

2007-09-19T18:04:00.001-07:00

So... its offical everyone! Zak and I are having a baby girl! :) We couldn't be happier and more excited! Zak, of course, would love to have a boy first... he says he's sad that there won't be football camps and football games... but he says that it will be good to have a girl first so that it will soften him up for the rest. And that is exactly what she'll do! Emrie will have him wrapped around her little tiny pinky the day she is born. We can't wait! The doctors appointment went great and they found no signs of anything being wrong with little Emrie at the ultrasound. I am so realived! I would worry a lot about her and how she is growing. But, from the size of my belly now, I would think she is doing just fine! She is about 1 pound now and is about 11 inches long. Landon figured she is about the size and height of a 16 oz. bottle of pop. What a little cutie! We are both doing great and Daddy is so cute with her!

By the way... sorry it has been so long since I have posted! We just got the internet today! Hooray! So, I'll start again. I'm doing Megan's wedding tomorrow and I'm really nervous! i hope she will like them. Also, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Cole and Landon! I can't wait to see you bud! Zak and I are going home this weekend... yes! I'll see the rest of you real soon. Love you all!

Love- Zak and Noelle

Crazy Lucky Week

2007-09-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

I just have to tell you all really quick about our out of the ordinary lucky week! We never win anything or get lucky, but last week was a major exception and has Landon telling me to go sign up for any drawing, raffle, and contest I come across!

First, Landon you all know is one of Cabela's biggest fans. He feels the same way about Cabela's as we gals do about Tei Pan. Last week dad sent us a card that if you spend over 500 dollars then you get 150 dollars on this gift card. Well, Landon's dad wanted a gun and me being the only Utah resident bought it. SCORE, 150 buckaroos! What am i going to do with that? Landon was so pumped... I can't even tell you! Later that week Gregg (Landon's dad) called again and wants another gun. All I can say is good thing I am a Utah resident or else none of this would have happened. So we I buy another gun and cha-ching, another 150 bucks for my obsessed husband. He is in hog heaven... especially because he has 4 hunts coming up this year. He is so nice... he said I could buy one thing. So generous. Just kidding, I want him to have it. Just imagine, 300 dollars at Tei Pan.

There is more..... Saturday was Landon's work golf tournament. It was a scramble and so they could all be on teams. Landon's team wasn't the best, but you all know that he can hold his own at a game of golf (I sure love bragging about my hubby!) The owner of the company, Dave Layton (a great golfer), stayed at one hole all day and had a little competition going, if you could get a better shot than him you could win a prize. Well, Landon hit and landed right on the green. Dave shot and it got lost in the weeds! So Landon won a portable DVD player, I think that it is a pretty nice one too! It will be great on those long car trips to New Mexico. After the tournament was over there was a raffle and the big prizes were last, a TV and an IPod. To make a long story short, when it came to the TV, Dave Layton said, "Well, this guy can plug his new DVD player into his new TV, Landon Sherwood!" It is a 27" LCD HDTV flat screen. Not huge, but way nice and Landon has been wanting one really bad. Yeah for him, because it would probably have been a while until his dream came true! So this past week was really lucky for Landon, actually he has had a great year. We have had a great year, I guess I do benefit from all these prizes too. But next time we have a lucky week can it pretty please be my turn?

TAG

2007-09-16T21:51:00.000-07:00

Yep, did you hear that? You're all tagged! here are the rules:

A. List 7 habits/quirks/facts about yourself.
B. Tag 7 people to do the same. (hmmm...maybe we can forgo this unless you want to tag the Jensen cousins!)

To see what I had to say, check out the ML's!

Buyer's Remorse

2007-09-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

So, I think I am the most indecisive buyer in the world! I just got some new NB tennis shoes at Famous, and with the 1/2 price sale I felt like I should get another pair or I was "wasting" my money. I have been wanting a casual pair of brown shoes for fall, and I thought these Sketchers were pretty cute. They were pricey, but I got them to try with my pants at home. Then I went to Payless and saw these really cute ones! They are a different style, but I think I like them better, although they are cheapos, but they are a better price, but... yeah, that's a glimpse of my crazy thought process! Any opinions?!? Thanks. --Lauren

Maddie Worship

2007-09-04T21:52:00.000-07:00

Thanks for a fun trip sisters! It was great to see you and to share Maddie's cuteness. Mom, Dad, and Cole, we missed you tons... but we hope to see you soon! We were talking about getting together the weekend before Halloween. I know that's still far away but let's see how that works for everybody. For more pics from our trip, check the ML's!

Little Miss Maddie

2007-08-29T09:26:00.000-07:00

We need something to do today! Maddie is lots of fun but I think we both get bored. I have plenty of things I could do (i.e. dust, finish my book, finish the RS newsletter) but Maddie doesn't gain from these activities and in fact just wants my attention so I usually do them while she is sleeping. It seems like we both do best when we can go somewhere during the day, but those options also seem limited! Maddie loves being outside but it's still blasted hot here. And if I go to a store, I will just want to spend money that I shouldn't.

Currently Maddie is sitting in the red chair throwing her toys off the side as quickly as I can pick them up. I turn around to look at her and she smiles big, so I laugh and then she laughs and it's so cute. I think she is starting to get frustrated that she can't move to get to new and interesting things by herself. She is getting harder to entertain! :) Well maybe I will find a picture for you all to enjoy...

Missionary Maddness :)

2007-08-27T13:31:00.000-07:00

Hello again family I know that you are probably sick of hearing from me but I thought I would let you all know that I got my first email from Justin since he became a real missionary in El Salvador. He is doing great and he says hello. He is in a tiny little town near Guatemala where there is only one little branch. He said that it is really hot and humid and his apartment is very dirty and not so nice. :S But I'm assuming that is all he will ever live in so I'm sure he will get used to it! His companion is a native and doesn't speak any English...so Justin tends to get a little frustrated and annoyed when he talks really fast but he'll be doing the same thing before we know it! :) Anyway thats about all. He seems to be having a great time thus far but lets remember to always keep him in our prayers. :) I love you all. xoxo ~ Emily

My buddy, my pal

2007-08-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to have Melinda, Greg, and the boys play with us for a day! They are such a cute family. We went to the peacock park again and Brenden was fearless running after the geese. Later we swam and Morgan & Bethany's pool, and that night we had them over for dinner at our house. The boys are soooo cute, and Melinda loved playing with Maddie and even changed two diapers. She is starting to sound a little baby hungry!! (She admits it herself.) It almost felt like old times, except that now there are a bunch of kids! :)

Little Miles has never taken a binki but he found Maddie's and knew exactly what to do with it! Look at those big happy eyes!For some reason we were kneeling when we decided to take a picture together. Mike said it looked like we were praying so we goofed it up a bit. Melinda, if you are reading this thanks SO much for visiting! You are so beautiful inside and out and I love that we are still friends!

2007-08-25T20:04:00.001-07:00

Well...my transition from teenager to adult was great! ;) Its weird to think that I will never be a teen again...but its a step I have to take. Between partying with the family, my wonderful Mom made cake, my oh so amazing presents from all of you and the Clay Walker concert to top it all off my birthday was Fabulous. Thanks everyone! I love you all! xoxo

Here is me and Tris at the Clay Walker concert on my birthday! Great fun :)

Here is our prego little Noellie! :):) So cute!

Here was our second try at seeing the bridge. Much better results! And again Cole looks so excited :)

We didn't want to wait in the long line for the trolly ride so instead we decided to just pose on the car!

Doesn't Cole look so happy to be there? Well I'm sure he was. Here we are on pier 39 watching the sea lions. I love the view of the city!

Well after letting th computer chill for a few hours is finally decided to behave so here are the pics that I promised! :)

This was our first shot at seeing the Golden Gate Bridge...its hard to believe but the bridge really was behind us!

Zoelle Adventures/ Birthday Celebrations! :)

2007-08-25T18:09:00.000-07:00

Well Family I am finally posting about our wonderful trip to California and my exciting birthday celebrations. Sorry it has taken so long I just have so much to do with Justin on his mission and Tris in Europe! JK! No I'm just a little lazy but here it is! The trip was a blast and Noellie already told you all about it so I'll just add my pics! And my birthday was wonderful! :)

Well I'm Sorry but I just lied to you. I don't know if it is the computer or the blog but it won't upload my pics :( So you'll have to wait in suspense for a little longer! ;) Love you all! xoxo
~Emily

So Long California!

2007-08-25T11:44:00.000-07:00

I am not sad to say that I am heading home today! HOORAY! I am sad that I have to leave Zak here by himslef, but I'm sure he'll have fun. He is working toward about 7 more sales. That should keep him well over 100 for the backend check! :) We've had some great times vacationing here over the summer. I have to admitt being so close to SF, Modesto, Santa Cruz, Napa Valley, etc. has been really fun and its really opened my eyes to the real world. I've gotten pretty used to it out here. I wonder what I'll feel like being back in the bubble. It really is great though not having to worry about break ins and going places by myself. I won't miss that at all. I can't wait to start my new job, as boring as I'm sure it will be, I'm happy that Zak and I will have nights and weekends together! Saturdays are Zak's football days, but if there isn't a good game on, we should plan on going camping or something fun before it gets too cold! We haven't done that in so long... anyway, I don't know when I can get on here again for the next week, so I just wanted to say so long, farwell California! See you guys soon! :) Love you all!

2007-08-21T09:25:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Em!!!

I know this is a graduation cake and you are not blond anymore, but it's a good representation. Wish we could be there when you blow out the candles! Make a good wish!!! Hope you enjoy being 2 decades old. This is weird--I got married when I was 20. :) Kisses are coming your way from me and Maddie!

wedding cake is yummy

2007-08-20T14:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary to us! Its crazy that its been a year already! We've had so much fun being married and working through all the little quirks. :) We wanted to do something really cool for our anniversary, like go to San Diego, but Zak had to work. I still wanted to make it memorable, so I took us both to get a couple massage that morning! It was AMAZING! Zak always talks about how he wishes that he could get a professional massage since I really stink at giving them to him... He just has such huge muscles, it hurts my little hands! I blindfolded him and everything so he didn't know what we were doing. It was fun. When we got there, we met the people who were doing the massages and his was a guy! :) He was a little weirded out by that but it would have been even more awkward to say something so he just let it slide. He said he was actually glad cuz a girl couldn't have done it as well as the guy did. Funny, huh? So, Zak got home that night to a nice candlelight lasagna dinner and a mini wedding cake! Since we didn't save our wedding cake to eat on our anniversary, I made one. It was a little lop-sided, but I think it turned out pretty cute! I put chocolate shavings on it and melted chocolate too. Yum-yum!

A little blurry, but this is the little dinner we had :) Zak also gave me my presents then. He got me more Mac makeup and The Notebook. We watched it that night. For those of you who have seen it know that it has a unique correlation to our story. I made Zak watch it when he first got home from his mission and he hadn't seen it since. He hated it back then because our story hadn't played out yet and we were in the middle of the mess I made. But, when the movie was over, he admitted that he really liked it because it ended with Noah winning... which is Zak in real life. :)
I'm a dork and made us cut the cake like we did on our wedding day. I couldn't resist! It was fun to pretend again. Don't we all wish we could go back and do it all over again anyway?

A Family Affair!

2007-08-19T23:23:00.001-07:00

For those of you who couldn't come on our trip... this is a short overview for all of you!The family arrived FINALLY at my house on Monday at about 5:30. After a long delay and the horrible traffic in San Fran... We just got all settled and prepared for all the festivities. :) We went to San Francisco on Tuesday morning. I even made Dad drive a certain way so that we could see the Golden Gate at its best perspective. But, of course, the fog hadn't disappeared so this is the shot we got. :(
We started out at Fisherman's Wharf at Pier 39. We ate yummy bread bowls and clam chowder for lunch at this place Zak suggested and then watched the sea lions push eachother off the docks. Someone else will have to post some of those pics, I didn't get any good ones! Of course we had to ride the cable cars (or at least pretend) and eat chocolate at Ghiradelli Square.

Sorry for the double take of Dad! I don't know how to delete a pic once its posted! We thought this sign was pretty cool.
I had never seen Lombard Street, so the family took me to walk down it... and then hike it back up! It was good exercise! The homes were gorgeous... we all loved it.

On the way out of San Fran, we stopped at this point again so we could see the amazing view. It is so worth it even though it is a little bit of a walk. None of us were prepared for cool breeze... its a lot cooler there than Fairfield!
Cole pole dances for extra cash so he can save up for new gadgets for his guitar.

We took a day off of sight seeing for a bunch of shopping. We went to H&M... even Cole found something! So, this is our little friend we met in Santa Cruz on Thursday. We drove out onto the pier and they were making so much rucus! We had to go down and see them. They play under the pier on the rafters. This little guy jumped up and just started posing for our camera! It was funny!

After lunch and more shopping in downtown Santa Cruz, we went and played at the beach! It was hot and there were no waves to play in! Plus, the water was negavtive 1000 degrees anyway! So we just layed out and watched Dad practice his juggling skills. He's pretty danged good!
Cole sure had a fun time laying out... you can tell. He looked so hot with his new sunglasses! We went and rode some rides to entertain him even further! He loved Santa Cruz though... we all had a lot of fun just talkin and being together. The rest of you, we missed you and wished you could have been there! Thanks for coming to see me family! I loved having you guys see what my life has been like for the past little while. I can't wait to see you all again though back in my other life! We love you all!

Noelle and Zak

Our little Niblet

2007-08-18T23:08:00.000-07:00

You all know Mike loves to make up nicknames for Maddie... the latest is "Niblet" and I think it's pretty fitting because I could just eat her up!!!

P.S. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Noelle & Zak!!! I cannot believe that it has been a whole year since your wedding. I hope you are as happy as the day you were married... actually even happier now that Murray Jr. is on the way! Congrats to your little family.

Bed set help!

2007-08-11T15:22:00.000-07:00

Okay we need to have a vote! We found this set at Kohls today for 50% off. It is a Nine West collection and the rayon/polyester blend has a nice sheen. If we keep it we will go back and get the matching sheet set that is light tan with a dark brown scrolly pattern (opposite of the brown pillow). Then we'll have two more pillows on the pile. So look to the side bar and take our poll!!!

Shoppin sistas!

2007-08-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to have Dana come visit! Maddie was grouchy sometimes but it was really fun. We think she is showing teething symptoms again. Anyway, thanks for making the drive sis, we love you TONS! (P.S. I will post more pics of the visit on the ML's tonight.)

I'll bet you can't guess what we did... SHOPPED! We had some breathing room in the budget this month so I went to work on the 'Master Suite'. What do you all think of the bed??? It's a bed in a bag all for $80 at TJ Maxx! It is trendy and gorgeous but also very bold... I like it a lot but I was actually looking for something more muted, like earthy-toned stripes or something. Tell me what you think!

Maddie Fix

2007-08-06T19:34:00.000-07:00

I talked to Dad, Mom, and Emily today and everyone misses Maddie! Here are some recent pictures so you can get your Maddie fix and not feel too deprived. You know, all of you are ALWAYS welcome to come visit...

This is Maddie making a face with her feet (Daddy's helping).

This is the outfit Maddie wore today--all from Aunt Dana! The pants have a mauve jacket that go with them but of course it's too hot, so we settled for a white onsie that doesn't match the cream flowers... but she looked darn cute anyway!!!

Baby Murray

2007-08-06T18:04:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone! I just wanted to give you all an update on the baby. :) Our little one is now about 4 inches long, crown to bum, and weighs about 2 1/2 ounces. The baby is now sensitive to light so if I pointed a flashlight at my stomach, the baby would probably move away from the beam. Hopefully the baby likes the sun though, cuz I love laying by the pool! :) The baby can't taste anything at this point, but he/she has taste buds forming. Also, by now, our baby is a boy or girl! We can't find out for another month though! Its killing me! Oh well... we'll find out soon enough. How is everyone else doing?
Love, Zak and Noelle

Our Long Vacation!

2007-08-02T12:50:00.001-07:00

I have really been dreading this post, but i know that everybody has been wanting to know what is going on in our lives and how our little vacation was! Life has been way nuts, but now that we are FINALLY getting settled i thought i would fill everybody in on our adventures.

This is Chris (Orange "S") from work. Landon and i got to play with him all day the Sunday before we moved. It was soooo much fun! So far he has already called me twice and his mom says that he always talks about "his Dana." I miss him tons and tons.

Here we are at Landon's graduation! We are all SOOOO proud of him! He worked so hard to get good grades and i think he is so relieved to finally be done (and we are just glad to not be broke college students anymore!)

Here are some pics from our 4 wheeling adventure! We had a such a blast not to mention how gorgeous it was to see what seemed like all of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. Gregg and Terisha were so great to do that for us and it was fun to have Dad, Mom, and Emily there enjoying what we love to do.

How do you like Landon's brand-spankin' new shiny canoe? He loves his new boat... even sprays it with vinegar and water after we use it so it won't get water spots... funny! We had fun out on Vallecito Lake near the cabin. Thanks Dad for driving with it all the way there, it was totally worth it.

I might be a retard, but i can't figure our how to rotate the picture??? Anyway, here we are at grand ol' Mesa Verde. For anybody reading this... you should seriously think about going there sometime in your life. it was sooooo cool! You go on tours of old old Indian Ruins built in the canyon rocks. It was one one the neatest things ever. If you are afraid of heights..... good luck. Mom didn't go on the first one, and it made my hands sweat that's for sure.

What a hottie! heheheee. We went boating with some of Landon's cousins at Navajo Lake in New Mexico. It was so much fun and Landon learned how to wake surf. It is kinda like wake boarding but there are no things to put your feel in (I don't know technical terms) and you get right behind the boat in the wake. As soon as you get close and feel comfortable you throw the rope in and just surf in the wake. He did so good. Sure makes me proud!

And lasts but not least... here is our new casa. We love it so much and thanks to everybody who helped us move! We live in Draper and here is our new address:

14939 S. Sycamore Hill St

Draper, Ut 84020

Our phone numbers are the same for now but will change soon probably. I dunno. Anyway, life is going to be different, but sometimes different is good. This sounds crazy, but leaving Rexburg was really sad for us. I am convinced that it is the perfect little town. But, change gives us a chance to grow, so that is good... right? Well, please come and visit whenever you want! i love and miss you all tons and tons and tons!

Only 180 days! ;)

2007-08-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody, check out the counter I made for Noelle at the bottom of the page... and there's one for Maddie on our blog now too!