ALLEN FAMILY

2011-06-25T16:39:00.000-07:00

Today was a very special day in our household! Dani May was baptized. Today was filled with "proud mommy moments". I am so very blessed with great children who make great choices like Dani did today. We were able to celebrate with our family and friends afterwards with some yummy food, treats, and swimming. That is where my sis in law pointed out my mismatched earings that I had been wearing ALL DAY!!

2011-04-15T16:35:00.000-07:00

Birthday fun! Well, maybe I should say, not so fun! I turned the dreaded 30!!!!! My sweet hubby and my wonderful kiddies made it so worth it though. Got some great gifts from the kids, and my sneaky hubby threw me a SUPRISE birthday bash! (no camera cuz I was truely suprised and not preparted!)

2011-03-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Meet Chocolatte! Nana and Grandad's new pony. He is the cutest thing ever, not to mention a child's dream come true! (my favorite picture is Jake!!!!!!!)

2011-02-01T11:59:00.000-08:00

These are pictures of my Kade Man's 1st Birthday. The cake pictures are my favs....if you look at them they tell a story of how he first hated his cake,then realized he loved it,then went to town!

2011-01-15T13:46:00.000-08:00

I am the luckiest lady alive! Today, my #1 man celebrates his Birthday. I love him dearly and would be lost without him! He makes me laugh everyday(mostly at him not with him)and I thank my Father in Heaven for sending him to me everyday. I love you Jakee-poo!!!!

1!

2011-01-07T12:42:00.001-08:00

My baby is 1 today! It's been a year of many different emotions but I sure do love this little guy!

2010-12-30T18:42:00.000-08:00

Not sure what order these will end up in but these are just a few of our pictures from Christmas.

2010-12-08T11:06:00.000-08:00

Kash and his "mini me"! Kash used to hate getting his picture taken too. Love my boys!

2010-12-07T19:28:00.000-08:00

To celebrate Madi's birthday we took her and a friend to dinner and a movie. Dinner-Texas Roadhouse, Movie-Mega-Mind. It was fun to have a date night with such a cute girl!

The last picture is my little family with my mom and dad, Elder and Sister Turley. They left for 2 years to serve a mission in Paraguay. Let me just say that the people there are so lucky to have them. My parents are going to be greatly missed!

10.......really??!!

2010-12-05T15:16:00.000-08:00

Today my sweet baby girl came into my life. This special girl has a smile so contagious, you can't help but smile no matter what mood you are in or day you are having. She knows when you need help before you even have to ask for it. There are so many great things I have to say about this angel but I would be here forever! Madi, I love you! I am so greatful for you and the joy you bring to me and the rest of our crazy family! Happy 10th Birthday!

Where do I start?

2010-11-26T13:53:00.001-08:00

Wow, life without a computer really gets old super fast!! These are some fun pics from Halloween into Thanksgiving. My favorite for sure is the picture of my HUGE baby in a pumpkin for the pumpkin carving contest. (sister in laws idea...thanks Krystal), his bum and thighs are so gigantic, it took forever to get him in and even longer to get him out! Love all my kiddos, love this time of year, and I am so thankful for all the great people in my life! Hubby, I love you too! You are so patient with me, you are the best!

Just Like His Daddy

2010-10-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

My poor husband had knee surgery yesterday! I feel bad for him but I have to admit it's kind of nice to see him sit and not work. This man is such a hard worker, he never stops!! His lap doesn't know what to with out his laptop on it and his hand and ear don't know what to do without his phone! Kash man, of coarse, had to be just like his daddy, ice pack and all! I also have to say that we have the best ward ever! We seriously told 1 person (Jake's really good friend) and we have already had dinner brought in to us, 2 treats, breakfast, and a ton of calls and texts. These people are great examples to me. Thank you all so much!

Great giveaway!

2010-09-30T09:36:00.000-07:00

http://theprettypoppy1.blogspot.com/

2010-09-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have the crankiest baby EVER so my posts will have very few words.

A couple weeks ago my girls got invited to a "Camp Rock 2" party so we went all out, make-up, the whole gig. The other pictures are of my chunky, cranky baby!

2010-09-02T15:34:00.000-07:00

Madi Bear got her braces off!!! She looks like a little momma, she is getting so old.

And then there's Dani who hasn't had her 2 front teeth since she was 3 yrs old. She is now 7 and we were a little worried that they were having some problems growing in. We got her an x-ray and her teeth are in there somewhere they are just taking their sweet time. Maybe next year Dani.

THE REAL CELEBRATION AND FIRST DAY OF PRE-SCHOOL

2010-08-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

One year older and wiser too.....

2010-08-30T17:42:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!!

GRADUATION

2010-05-11T14:34:00.000-07:00

My Kash man graduated from preschool today. Today was such a treat for me. I was such a dork standing in the back with the HUGEST smile, my video camera, and my still shot camera, and a baby in my arms. I was such a proud mommy! I love you Kash. And I love Mrs. Rogers too! She has worked her magic on these kids day after day. Kash has memorized dozens of poems, knows how to write his name, and so much more and he's only 3! Kash, I am so proud of you! I love you!

4 MONTHS OLD!

2010-05-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile!

2010-05-04T20:01:00.000-07:00

These are some random pics of the last few weeks, including egg drop projects, making get well cards for grandpa, Kash learning how to ride his bike, my sweet Kade man, Kash taking a nap in Kade's car seat, Dani at her dance competition(with her broken arm). It's been a crazy month but all is well in the Allen family!

WOW!

2010-03-30T14:38:00.000-07:00

WOW is the only work I could think of when trying to describe the last few weeks for us in the Allen home! We had Kade's blessing day which was so AMAZING. What a special day for us. Then it was off to DISNEYLAND. Yes, I said DISNEYLAND. Dani danced there so we decided to take the fam, even a 9 week old baby at the time. Luckily his new medicine kicked in and he was so much happier. Then it was Kash's very first gymnastics meet. He did so awesome and still wears his "gold metal" to church and everywhere else for that matter. We had track and field days for both Madi and Dani. They both did GREAT! It brought back so many good memories. Track and field days were my absolute favorite growing up. Enjoy the pics of our crazy life.

2010-03-10T15:55:00.000-08:00

Ok, cross your fingers. My poor baby has been suffering for the last 8 weeks. We are really hoping this combination will eleviate his pain and maybe even help him be the happy baby I know he can be. I love him dearly but the last 8 weeks have probably been the longest, hardest 8 weeks of my life....so....CROSS YOUR FINGERS!

I love you my little Kade man!

THE ETERNAL 29!

2010-03-04T13:46:00.000-08:00

Yep, I am finally there. I have turned the "eternal 29". This is the age that I will forever be. I will no longer be getting older, I will stay this beautiful number for the rest of my life.

I had a great day yesterday. My fabulous hubby, crazy Kash, and sweet baby Kade took my out to a delicious breakfast at Cracker Barrel. Then that afternoon we opened presents. Jake and I started a tradition that we take the kids shopping for eachothers birthday and they can pick out WHATEVER they want...NO RESTRICTIONS! This makes for a very fun and entertaining event.

2010-03-02T20:09:00.000-08:00

This last weekend was a Dani filled weekend! I was able to spend all day Saturday at a dance competition with Dani. The first half of the day was a workshop and the last half of the day was the actual competition. She was in 3 dances and they all did so good. There 2 jazz numbers got GOLD and there tap number got PLATINUM!!! Then on Monday night we were able to watch her perform at the SUNS GAME! Like always, they did fabulous! Good job Dani May, we are all so proud of you!

2010-02-14T10:05:00.000-08:00

These are my loves! I have never made a huge deal out of Valentine's Day but this year has struck a nerve. We still don't do a lot for this day but I am overwhelmed with the love that I feel for these 5 people. I adore each and every one of these amazing people and am so thankful that they are a part of my life. So on this day I am celebrating them and the love that I have for them.

2010-02-11T10:05:00.000-08:00

For some reason the pictures are showing up as a whole bunch of letters and numbers while I write this post so I have no idea what order these pictures are in. The one where he is in the towel I just couldn't resist. He went to his first sacrament meeting on Sunday and he was officially 1 month old that day(not a great picture-I was in a hurry). The close-up of his face was to document that I am pretty sure this little boy will have the Allen's curly hair! And last but not least, Kash has sure felt like the big boy of the house now that Kade is here and requires so much attention. He has to make his own lunch almost everyday.

That is it for now. Life is finally getting a little more normal. Kade isn't my happiest of babies but man I sure do love that little man. Even while he is cranky I can still see his sweet demeanor. I sure do love my kiddos!

LOVE OF MY LIFE

2010-02-04T15:30:00.001-08:00

10 years ago today this man and I started our wonderful, crazy life together. It has been the best 10 years of my life. This man is SO patient with me, it's a wonder he is still standing by my side...I am a CRAZY WOMAN! He loves my unconditionaly and always has me and the rest of the fam on the top of his list. He really is the best and he deserves everything he wants in life, he is that amazing!

I love you honey! I look forward to the next 10 years!

ENOUGH ALREADY

2010-01-31T13:56:00.001-08:00

Life has been a little different since having baby Kade. Poor Kash is so stinikin' bored! The only thing that has gotten him through is this weirdo...

Seriously the kid watches this show EVERY DAY! He even has most parts of the movie memorized. I know what you all are thinking, "what a terrible mother she is", but with a fussy baby you do what you gotta do!

P.S. Can you guess what Kash is going to be for Halloween next year?

( My computer is broken so I am using the kids computer and I don't dare download any of my pictures on it so pictures of the fam will be coming soon.)

Birthday Boy and First Bath

2010-01-18T15:22:00.000-08:00

I know it's a little late to post a Birthday tribute to the best hubby in the nation but better late than never right? Friday was Jake's Birthday and I have to publicly apologize to him for a not so great Birthday. I was so consumed with 1st, just getting through Christmas, and 2nd, just getting through New Year's and preparing my house and my life for the arrival of our baby Kade that I did not put the amount of thought and preparation into Jake's celebration that it deserved. So Jake, I'm sorry but I love you! Here are the kids with their SURPRISE for dad. (I swear they waited behind that couch forever)
I did have a few "real" presents for him but I wanted the kids to play a part in his day so I asked my bestest Sis-in-law to take my kids to the Dollar Store with $20 and let them go crazy. This picture doesn't do the gifts that he got justice. They were all a big hit and made us laugh so hard!

My sis-in-law also took the kids back to her house and helped them bake a cake for their daddy. They were so proud!

My girls got to take part in Kade's first bath(sponge bath). Madi got to do the legs...

and Dani got to do the arms.

DRUM ROLL PLEASE.........

2010-01-09T16:48:00.001-08:00

Introducing...Kade Bentley Allen. Weighing in at 8lbs 4oz and 20 1/2 in long, this little guy is my newest love. I'm on lots of good drugs and super tired right now so this will be short and sweet. C-section went well thanks to the best Doctor in the world! I feel great, Kade is doing well. He had to spend 24 hours under some sweet tanning bulbs because of course all of my children have to be jaundice when they are born, I think it is a requirement :). He is with me now and looking tanner than ever.(I am so jealous) My children adore him. He has a huge fan club and I am club president. Love you all!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2010-01-03T09:15:00.000-08:00

I love traditions. Every year for the past 5 years my hubby's grandparents rent out Polar Ice Skating Rink for the entire family and we have an hour of fun, fun, fun. This was Kash's first year actually getting on the ice. He loved it!

My girls were pros this year. I was totally impressed.

Of course they had to do the train.

The men playing hockey.

I was a little sad, this year was the first year I had to sit out and not skate. Being 5 days away from our little boy joining the family I figured it wouldn't be smart of me to brake any bones now.

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-27T20:05:00.001-08:00

Wow! Let me just start out by saying that Santa was way too nice to us this year! He brought me a cannon rebel and I could not be any more excited. I have always been interested in 2 things that I never pursued, Hair (cosmetology) and Photography. There is no possible way to go ahead with cosmetology at this stage in my life, and what better hobby to pursue than photography? I mean, I have the perfect subjects, my sweet babies! So thank you Santa!
We had an early start to our day and it was NON-STOP. I found my husband doing this many times throughout the day.

My stud muffin in his Kurt Warner jersey that he got from his daddy.

Not sure what Santa was thinking on this one but he actually does really well and it has turned out great!

The girls got DS Lite's and this is what they did all day.

Kash got batting gloves just his size and still has not taken them off. He opened all of his presents like this and it took FOREVER!

By the end of the day Madi's face was covered.

We ended the day with a nice warm cup of hot chocolate. I want my children to know how much I adore them and how much joy and happiness they bring to my life. I love these pictures because all I have to do is look into their eyes and I see everything.

(Kash would not look at me!)

MORE CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES

2009-12-20T09:05:00.000-08:00

Like I said in my previous post, I love this time of year but man is it ever busy! For me, this is my favorite kind of busy though. We are busy spending all of our time with family and reflecting on how lucky we are to have each other and the reasons why we are all here together on this earth.

Anyhow, I have got a ton of pictures of what we have been doing this last week. I threw this first one in here because this little boy cracks me up! He insisted on eating his lunch with a spatula.

I wore him out with all my running around!

Decorating Gingerbread Houses. Before...

After...

Kash had his Christmas Program and once again Mrs. Rogers outdid herself. These little kids did such a fabulous job!
Kash taking his bow:)

The next few pictures tell a funny story. (well at least to me) He was so excited to perform all of the songs they had worked so hard on, I mean look at his face. But then...

A little visitor came knocking at the door and look how the expression on his face changed drastically from the previous picture. And then...

The meltdown. He tried so hard to be brave but I think he thought if he just rubbed his eyes Santa Clause would disappear.

And then we experienced a Christmas miracle...He decided it wouldn't be that bad to sit on his lap. He couldn't be that bad, right? The day turned out to be a great one and everyone was happy.

Here are the kids at our annual Turley Christmas Party performing the Nativity. My girl were beautiful angels.

And Kash was a studly Sheppard.

THE GRINCH VS. THE NUTCRACKER

2009-12-13T10:11:00.000-08:00

What a fun week we have had. It started out with a night of "Reading Under the Stars", well that's what it was supposed to be until it decided to rain all day so the school changed it to "Reading in the Multi-Purpose Room". There was cookies, hot chocolate, and some great stories read to us as we sat in our comfy pj's. At the end a great night there was a special visit from The Grinch. Kash would have nothing to do with him but the girls were all over it!
This is how Kash insisted on being carried out to the car. Little Goober.

Friday night we went to the Temple Lights and ate some yummy pizza at good ole pizza mart!

Saturday my girls were in the Nutcracker! It was such a fun but busy day. They had 2 shows, one at 2 and one at 7:30. Jake's parents, sister, and all of the girl cousins from the Allen side came to the 2:00 showing. They were so sweet for coming to show their support. I know it meant a lot to my girls and made them feel so special.

In between shows their awesome Daddy took us all out to dinner at Costa Vida. My girls still had another show to perform but as you can see from this picture they are exhausted!

Madi was a Gingerbread and Dani was a Gumdrop. They did so good. I am so very proud of them. They had extra practices every week (on top of their regular dance and gymnastics classes) since the beginning of October and never once did they complain.

Girls, Mom and Dad love you! You rocked it!

AM I REALLY THAT OLD?

2009-12-07T09:39:00.001-08:00

My sweet Madi Bear celebrated her 9th, yes I said 9th, Birthday on Saturday. Madi is such a special girl. She definitely came to me first for a reason. She is such a good helper and she seems to have a special intuition to know when her crazy mom needs help. She is tender hearted and people flock to her because of her genuinely sweet and fun personality. I love this girl!

We don't do big Birthday parties every year so this time she got to invite 2 friends to a Girl's Night Out. We took them to dinner and a movie. She chose to see A Christmas Carol and wanted to sit by herself, not by her embarrassing parents. We had heard that this movie was a little scary so the best we could do was to sit right behind them just in case. They made it through the whole movie but within the first 5 minutes the arm rest went up and they scooted in close and all had their arms around each other.

Here they are walking into the movie singing, "Bad Girls, Bad Girls What you gonna do? What you gonna do when they come for you?"
Strikin' a pose in their sweet 3-D glasses. You do not want to mess with these "Bad Girls".

Following the movie we went to Red Robin to enjoy some fabulous food and open a few presents.

You can really see her fun personality in this picture:)

We opened her family presents the morning of her birthday. Dani had been talking about her present for her for days. This purse that she is holding up is a purse that Dani has had for a while and it is her all time favorite possession and she chose to give it her older sister. Do I have the best children or what?!

I promise you my Madi will work with animals in one way or another when she is older. We call her the animal whisperer. She has got a way with animals, they just love her. She opened this huge horse and just about had a heart attack.

Last night we were able to celebrate with my family and enjoy her favorite Texas Sheet Cake with some of her favorite people.

Madisen, I love you! I am so thankful for you and all that you bring to my life! You are such a light in all of our lives. Hope you had a great Birthday!

Where Do I Begin?

2009-11-29T10:41:00.000-08:00

I have come to the conclusion that most of my posts are full of pictures of my kids and I now know why that is. I have been absolutely miserable lately (I know I'm a baby-waa-waa) and this is how I focus on the best things in my life instead of how incredibly huge, swollen, and grumpy I am. These emotions that I have been dealing with are so not important but my children, on the other hand, are the most important people in my life ( my hubby too:)) I am so blessed and so Happy. This is my favorite time of year.

Kash had a Thanksgiving Feast at his preschool and he dressed up as an Indian. His Indian name was Black Horse.
A couple days before Thanksgiving we went to Nanna's house for our 1st annual pie making night. It was a blast! My mother-in-law is so talented in so many ways. We were so happy that she was willing to share her talent with us!

We actually put up the Christmas lights before Thanksgiving this year. (when I say we I really mean my most awesomest hubby)

I caught these 2 actually being nice to each other. I love these little moments!

They were totally rockin' out!

We went out to dinner the day before Thanksgiving and we came to a decision that going out to dinner with Kash was no longer a fun thing to do. This is what he was doing the entire time until his food came out.

And he would only use a knife to eat his food!

After our big meal on the special Turkey day Grandad took us out back and shot BB guns with us.

AZ STATE FAIR!

2009-11-08T10:56:00.001-08:00

Yesterday brought back some old, old but great memories. We were able to go as a family and watch Dani perform at the good old Az State Fair. She did Fabulous, we are so proud of her!
(she's the one with her hands clasped together)
Front and center! She is such a performer.

Shakin' her booty in her booty shorts!

We were then able to go and enjoy the rides, the fun exhibits, and let's not forget the GREAT FATTY FOOD! (If you click on the pictures you can see the looks on their faces. I'm still laughing out loud...too funny)

Kash loved pretending he was Super Man flying through the air!

PICTURE OVERLOAD

2009-11-01T12:19:00.000-08:00

As many of you out there, this is the start of my absolute favorite time of the year. The weather cools down, the kids are happy-always looking forward to the next celebration, and pure joy just knowing what we are experiencing at the moment and the joy to come from what we will experience in the upcoming months to come. We are able to spend November focusing on what we are thankful for (which is soooo much but that is for another post). December brings such a beautiful spirit to our home with celebrating with family and focusing on our Savior Jesus Christ. Last but most definitely not least, January will bring the birth of our fourth child which I am so excited for I can hardly stand it!

Now on to the Halloween festivities:

Every year we have the opportunity of spending time with some great people in our neighborhood at our annual Pumpkin Carving Party.

Kash had his 1st Halloween Parade at his pre-school. Doesn't he make a great Batman!

Dani as Dorthy in her school parade.

Madi as Selena Gomez from Wizard's of Waverly Place.

Madi at the donut eating contest.

Kash was lucky enough to have a turn.

Most of the Grandkids at Nanna and Grandad's.

My sweet Kiddos.

Kash showing off his Batman skills.

My girls with my Mom and Dad.( Kash was being a booger and wouldn't take a picture)

2009-10-20T11:41:00.000-07:00

I want to take a minute and and publicly announce my love for my children. My babies have been SO patient with me the last 7 months. There love for my is unconditional and they are such great examples of everything good to me. I hope they will always know and feel of my great love for them.

I found Kash watching TV in this basket last night in our room. He is so funny and creative.

My girls got to cheer at the MVT game this last weekend. They did so good. I was so proud! It brought back some fun memories for me. Maybe these two will have the same picture when Madi is a senior and Dani is a sophmore:)

A Good Start to A Good Week (Hopefully :0)

2009-10-12T14:39:00.000-07:00

We started out this October Break by taking a quick trip up to Pine Top to help some cousins move their Semi Truck full of stuff into their rental and storage unit. It was a long day but it was so great to spend time with some great people that we hardly ever got to see seeing as how they lived in Alaska!

We rented a little cabin and made a mini vacation out of this trip. Here are the kids actually getting along. Gotta cherish these moments right?!

The kids did so good helping out where they could and just staying out of the way, we took them to Denny's for dinner. If you look at Isaac's face (the only one looking at the camera) you can tell what kind of day it was.

The kids played outside all day, everyday. The weather was fabulous and they were so tired from running non stop all day they fell asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillow. How great is that?!

We took the kids to the park and let them run wild once again. Jake had to get in on all the fun. Is it just me or does swinging never get old?

We took advantage of the beautiful weather and drove up to Sunrise and rode the ski lift to the top of the mountain. I was so proud of my kids for not freaking out!

The weekend was a blast. Now I just hope and pray that I make it through this next week without being a witch of a mother. I am trying so hard to pretend that I have enjoyed this pregnancy so far but who am I kidding? I am miserable for some reason, I am a flippin' HIPPO, and I have been so grumpy and moody. I have never been of felt like this with my other 3 pregnancy's so this is all new to me and I have no idea how to handle my crazy self! Anyhow thanks for letting me vent.

GOOD WEATHER AND GOOD FUN!

2009-10-09T11:45:00.000-07:00

Let the festivities begin! I am so looking forward to this Holiday season. For one, I love my kiddos and it's so nice to see them having so much fun and being together as a family more than we usually are, and for two, I am looking forward to this pregnancy flying by through the season! I HAVE HAD WITH THIS ONE! I am soooooo excited to have this sweet baby boy in my arms and with our family but, HOLY COW, I have despised this pregnancy!

Anyways, onto the fun stuff, my awesome sister-in-law Amber was in charge of our monthly combined FHE and she had the funnest activities planned for the kids. She is so creative, I love it. We started out with a sweet game of Halloween Bingo, then we made spooky spiders with ding-dongs (I forgot how much I love those things), black licorice, and red hots, then onto the creepy popcorn hands. It was such a fun night. Once again I am so lucky to have such a great and fun family! Thanks Amber!

Now for the good weather. Now that my girls are back in school I get to spend some quality time with my Kash Man. This little boy is sheer entertainment for me. He's crazy but he is such a good boy, has the best and funnest personality, and most importantly he loves me :) We have enjoyed this great weather so much. The park has never been so much fun!

Allen Family Reunion '09

2009-10-03T16:48:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago we had the opportunity to go down to Wilcox, Az for the Allen Family Reunion. We had a great time. How can you beat good wheather, good food, good company, and great fun?! You just can't!

While we were there we had the chance to drive to Safford to see the new temple that is being built. What a beautiful sight!

On Saturday we went to Apple Annie's Apple picking farm. We missed the hay ride so we found a trailer the was parked and tried to convince the kids that playing on the hay was just as fun. Everyone but Kash (in the background) was convinced :)

I tried to teach Kash how to look cross eyed.

This place had the yummiest suckers, ice cream, fudge, and so much more!

My Sweet Babies ....

My Hubby took our barrel train up there and entertained the kids for hours on end!

I am so thankful to have such a wonderful family! I am so blessed to have been born into a great family and to have married into such a great family as well.

2009-09-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know I haven't posted in a while but let's be honest here, I'm pretty sure I am the only one who reads this thing anyways. I am posting today because I need HELP! How do you tidy housewives keep up on laundry? I can't do it. Well, it's not that I can't do I just plain HATE it! I feel like I am drowning in laundry. Is there anyone out there who has any tips or a good system that helps them get their laundry done and not hate every minute of it?

2009-08-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today is my baby's 3rd BIRTHDAY! I want my little Kash man to know how much he is loved by his mommy and daddy! My relationship with this little boy is almost indescribable. As some of you may know, I would have been just fine having all girls. Not because I didn't want a boy but because I was so used to girls and I loved the boys and frilly dresses. I am so glad to know that the Lord had a different plan for me. I love my girls very much and I will always cherish my relationship with them but me and this little boy really have something special! When this little boy looks at me he literally melts my heart. I want to wish this sweet boy the BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!! Kash I love you, you are so special to me and I am so thankful for you !

I LOVE YOU MR. KASH!!!

First Day of School for the Kash Man

2009-08-26T11:30:00.000-07:00

My baby boy sure is growing up. The difference between his first day of school last year and this year was, hilariously, different. He woke up in the morning and literally jumped out of bed, and begged me to take...here's the kicker...TONS OF PICTURES! He used to kick and scream at the site of my camera. He wanted me to take a picture of him eating his " first day of school" breakfast...

Then, the official first day outfit and back pack picture...

Then, him walking into school.

It was so cute! I love this little man and I am so excited for him to have a little brother so he can teach him everything he knows.

THE RESULTS...

2009-08-19T11:42:00.000-07:00

We went to the Doctor for the big ultrasound and the verdict is.........

IT'S A BOY!!!!

We are so excited. 2 girls and 2 boys, it couldn't be more perfect!

My Angels

2009-08-13T13:22:00.000-07:00

I want to start off this post by expressing my love for the 3 angels in my life! We have had a blast this summer swimming almost every day, shopping, and eating stuff I don't normally eat.( therefore gaining 5 million pounds!!!!! Ugh!!!)

We were very excited for the first day of school to finally be here. Not to get the kids out of the house but to just have a schedule and structure in our lives. My kids are so incredibly happy and that makes me so happy! They come home from school and we are so happy to see each other, they have a few hours to do homework and get some playing in, eat dinner, clean up and start the day all over again. Pure joy!:)

Can you believe I have a 1st grader and a 3rd grader?!

As we were taking pictures, Kash was throwing a fit because he wasn't starting school that day. The only thing that would calm him down was for him to get his own picture taken. This is the best he would give me:)

It's only been 2 days since school started and Kash and I have already begun our partying. We have gone out to lunch both days and enjoyed some yummy, yummy food! Here Kash is enjoying his kids meal from Freddy's Frozen Custard. I love this little munchkin!

2009-08-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

The last weekend of the summer we were invited to go on the funnest camping trip ever with some great, great friends in our ward. We ate tons of food, laughed, relaxed, and played a lot! We took the kids to the water hole, or what's known to us as the "baths", I forgot our swimming suits so my poor kids had to go in their clothes. Hence the picture of Kash in his underoos:)

MORE SUMMER FUN!

2009-08-01T16:02:00.000-07:00

We were able to go visit my Sister-in-Law, Krystal, who is in Cali for the summer. We enjoyed: cooler weather, picnics for dinner, lots and lots of shopping (my kids were such troopers), and of coarse the beach! Thanks Krystal for being such a good and patient host!

Kash started gymnastics this summer. I don't know where this kid gets all his talent but he is so stinkin' good!

Dani was able to dance at a Phoenix Mercury halftime. I was videotaping so I put Madi in charge of the camera :) This is the only picture that actually captured Dani.

Dani jumping at Stapley pool.

I couldn't get Madi off the high dive!

2009-07-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

We really enjoyed our 4th celebration this year. It was very relaxed but still a blast for the kids. My hubby was nice enough to let me go to my favorite class at the gym without having to wake up the kids and take them with me.( he usually has to go sign leases or show houses early Sat.) So he was home with the kids for the morning. He got the kiddos breakfast and them hopped in the shower and this little note was on the mat outside the shower waiting for him. My kids really got into the holiday this year. It was so fun!

We had a BBQ at the Allen house and of course went swimming! My kids in there 4th of July outfits:)

We are so lucky that the church down the street puts on a fireworks show that we can see from the park by our house. It was so nice to get my jammy's on and let my kids run around and not be worried about them.

Well, my girls ran around and played but this is how Kash spent his evening. He was so scared of the fireworks but yet he wanted to see them so bad so he didn't want to cover his eyes so he, instead, covered his mouth. He is such a goober!

SUMMER FUN!

2009-07-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun watching Kash's swim lessons this summer. This was his first session ever and it was a complete success! He SCREAMED and CRIED for the first week and then he finally discovered Miss Courtney's magical powers and something clicked. He did awesome and learned to love it. We owe it all to Miss Courtney! She's the BEST!

His thumbs up is my favorite.

This boy's got hops!!

We took a day off from swimming at Nana's and went and played in the water down at San Tan Mall. We took our lunch and played in the water all afternoon. The kids loved it.

My cute girls!

My girls got the opportunity to do the MCC Musical workshop again this summer. I tell you, it's a little expensive but TOTALLY WORTH IT! I'm so proud of my girls and their cousins. They are all so talented. You make us so proud kiddos.

Ok now here comes the really fun part...............WICKED! Yes we went and saw Wicked and I am still giddy! It was sooooooo good, I couldn't sleep last night because I couldn't stop thinking about how awesome it was! The cast was amazing and did such a great job! I would totally recommend it to ANYONE AND EVERYONE!!!!!!

My whole family bought tickets and we took Jake's parents for their Christmas present and my beautiful Sis-in-law Amber and her husband Todd bought tickets as well. Such a fun night!

What's that supposed to mean?!

2009-06-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

This is who my kids apparently mistake me for:

Miss Hannagin because I am a crazy,grumpy, old lady!............
and Ginormica (no not her cuteness) because of her greatness in size!

So I guess I am a mean, ugly, crazy, old, gigantic woman! HELP!!!!!

MY MONKEY'S

2009-06-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

This summer has been so enjoyable for us! We have been very relaxed in everything we do. KEEP IT SIMPLE right? I think we are doing a pretty good job of that. A big reason why it has been so easy to be lazy is because we will be adding a 4th little monkey to our family in early January. I haven't been feeling very good this time around (huge change for me, I've never had a "sick" pregnancy before) so we do a whole lot of nothin' around the Allen house lately.

My kids have been so much fun! They really are my "little monkey's"!

My girlies did soooooo good at their dance recital. I'm so proud of them. They have grown up way too fast!

Ok, yesterday I made plain old turkey and cheese sandwiches for lunch and my kids went nuts. I don't know what made these so different but apparently they were "the best". My Dani was so funny she couldn't stop talking about it. I walked in the pantry and I hear her say, " Oh, it is so good, I just want to marry this thing!!". I laughed so hard!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANERS!

2009-05-31T15:59:00.000-07:00

I am such a slacker! I have so many pictures and fun things to share but first things first I have to tell my Dani May, aka Daners, Happy Birthday! Her birthday was actually on Friday but really we have been celebrating it since the 21st. (pictures not in order)

The day before her Birthday we have a family date night at the Dbacks game. I know my Madi is a goober :0

Ok, on the 21st me and my girls went to the Taylor swift concert with their Aunt Krystal and Aunt Amber and favoritest cousin Ellie. It was so much fun and we literally got to hug her!!
(more pictures of that to come, I have some fun ones)

I wish I could say that my kids always get along but like any normal family, they don't but my sweet Dani May loves her brother and sister more than anything. It is the sweetest thing to watch. I love this little girl. She has been such a blessing to me from the moment she came into my life. I love her dearly and she brings a sparkle to my eye everyday! I love you Dani!

We gave her the choice of where to go eat for her birthday dinner. She really wanted to go to a place that sang happy birthday to her so of course she went all out and chose Texas Roadhouse. She really is a doll!!!!

To All The Women In My Life

2009-05-11T11:26:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to pay special tribute to all the wonderful women in my life. For some reason I have had a hard time celebrating Mother's Day for myself the last few years. I love reflecting on my Mom and my mother-in-law and how amazing they are but I just have a hard time celebrating my own motherhood. I often times feel like a failure. I feel like I could be doing so much more for my children but I don't. Now, make no mistake about it, I LOVE my children more than anything! I would give my life for them! They absolutely complete the puzzle of my life but I can't figure out what the heck I am doing wrong! I am so thankful for a Father in Heaven who believes in me and who has full confidence in me and my skills of being a mother. I know I am not perfect and that I'm not supposed to be. I hope and pray that I can be the mother that my kids want and need me to be to help them survive this crazy ever changing world.

Ok, on to the presents. Now that my kids are getting older the things they bring home from school and church are so much fun! This is what my Madi Bear typed up for me at school in computer lab:

Makes the best cookies
On summer she takes my swimming
The cakes she makes are the bomb
Helps me with my homework
Every day she makes us surprise breakfast
Right on time for gymnastics
Love, Madi

This was a questionnaire that my Dani May did in primary:

My mom's name is- Megan
She weighs- 30lbs
Her shoe size is- 20
Her favorite food is- fruits and vegetables
Her favorite thing to wear is- skirts and shirts
Her favorite tv show is- Nims Island
Her favorite thing to do with me is- pray with me
If I can give my mom anything in the world it would be- Mother's Day necklace

Are those not the best gifts ever?! These are definitely getting framed and hung on the wall!!! And now for the finale.............

My husband took the kids to Target and let them pick out a few things on their own. The Snuggie was the ultimate winner for them. Jake said that they couldn't stop giggling at the fact that they were giving me a Snuggie for Mother's Day :)

I had a great day yesterday. A big thank you to my hubby and kiddos. They are the gems in my life. They make me so happy and want to be better and what more could a struggling mother ask for?

A BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE

2009-05-07T14:23:00.000-07:00

Today my Sister-in-law, Susan, who passed away 5 months ago would have turned 26. I have said it before and I will say it again, this girl was amazing! Although we wish she could be here to celebrate her birthday with us, we know that she is partying it up with some very special people! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN!

2009-04-28T15:24:00.000-07:00

Wow! I never really listened to people when they would tell me how fun Cruise's were. I just tuned them out because I have never been on one. Well I went on my first cruise this last weekend and HELLO.................why didn't anyone tell me that Cruise's were so much fun?!Ha Ha Me and my hubby went along with Zack and Liz (Jake's bro and wife), Krystal and Jason (Jake's sis and hubby), and Amber and Todd (Jake's sis and hubby). Let me just tell you that these 6 people made this trip what it was for me! They were so fun, so hilarious, so crazy it was a blast! Our Cruise Director, Stu, told us that if we ate at least 7 meals a day we would actually lose weight because it would help speed up our metabolism. We, of course, followed his directions and......well........ I will not divulge whether or not this new "diet" plan worked for us or not.

This man was so much fun on this trip. He always keeps me entertained. ( or embarrassed, I'm not quit sure but whatever it is I love him for it.) He won this bag (yes I said bag not hat) for being the loudest and most obnoxious in the audience. Does that surprise anyone?

We had the BEST waiter at our dinner's! Everyday we looked forward for dinner to come just so we could spend time with our friend.............LAURO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My husband and Todd. They are crazy. No explanation of this picture needed.

Our stop was in...........wait for it ............MEXICO. YIKES! I know what you all are thinking. And no I did not bring the Swine Virus to AZ. Well at least I hope not!

We rented quads for a few hours and rode around the little town and the beach. We asked a little Mexican boy to take a picture for us and this is what we got. (I just realized that the picture disappeared Oh well)

All because 2 people fell in love!
Me and my Awesome, Beautiful, Crazy sis in laws!

This was as dressy as we got for our "formal dinner".

Krystal and I were on the same wave length when we bought our dresses.

One afternoon there was a hypnotist show. My sis in law's Liz and Krystal and of course my crazy husband participated. By far, one of the funniest experience on the trip. I can't even begin to tell you what they did. I would be here forever and I'm pretty sure I would pee my pants reliving this experience. It was that funny!

After our cruise was over we did a little shopping on shore in San Diego and of course, pictures by the beach.

I said it before and I will say it again, these girls are the Best! (Malinda and Shelice, you guys are the best too and you were definitely missed.)

2009-04-11T11:19:00.000-07:00

HAPPY EASTER!

YOU WILL BE MISSED

2009-03-28T13:40:00.000-07:00

WOW! It has been a busy couple of weeks! We had a great spring break in Cali. Unfortunately while we were gone, our beloved Bompa passed away. Bompa is my husbands Granpa Curtis. He was the neatest man and my kids absolutely adored him, he was sooooo entertaining. Although we miss him dearly, he was so desperate to return to his Heavenly Father and his Sweetheart, Grananna, who passed away last May. So while we are sad that he is gone, knowing how happy he his right now really helps us all deal with the sadness.

While we were at the Burial Service we took the opportunity to go visit Aunt Susan (my sister-in-law) who passed away 4 months ago.

Bompa had developed a lot of the land in Mesa when he was a young man and was a very well known "Cowboy" so he was carried in to the site on a horse and buggy. It was such a neat service! I'm so glad my kids were able to see it.

SWEET KIDS!!!! GOTTA LOVE EM!

SPRING BREAK 2009!

2009-03-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

Whew! I made it ! I decided to actually do something for spring break this year. We usually just stay home and veg out but not this year. Me and the kids left Sunday and went up to Oceanside and stayed in an, oh so small but awesome, condo right and I mean right off the beach! It was a blast! We have never had the luxury of staying so close to the beach. It was so much fun and so relaxing. Although I was really proud of myself for surviving the first part ot the week by myself, I was so glad to see my honey buns on Thursday! We took rides along the beach.........

Went to watch Stetson (Jake's cousin who plays for BYU which is the main reason we took the trip to Cali, Loved watching Stetson play and loved hangin out with his cute newlywed wife, Holly!)......

Ate breakfast outside on the porch every morning (it was freezing, by the way).......

Fell asleep in each others arms..........(brought tears to my eyes)

Went to the San Diego Zoo (Kung Foo Panda pose)........

Found a dead crab on the beach (I told them to do a scary face and this is what they came up with)...........

Hung out on the beach with loved ones...........

Wore goggles all day long, even though he never touched the water, and would not take them off and got suction marks that are still there :)..........

Enjoyed the company of all my best friends all week long!

JUST ONE OF THOSE DAYS

2009-03-07T14:49:00.000-08:00

Before I begin let me just say that I love my children more than life itself. I really do have the best kids in the whole wide world but yesterday was "just one of those days". One of those days where you feel like you have failed at everything in life. Where you feel like you have failed at being a homemaker, you have failed at being a mother, and, really, like you have failed at everything in general. My oldest thinks that you only go to school to play with your friends, and keeps getting in trouble. Forget about all that learning stuff, right? WRONG! My middle child decided that she wanted to forget that she was ever potty trained and had 2 accidents in 1day. She said she just "didn't feel like going." Is she serious?! My little booger decided he was in charge of himself yesterday and that he didn't have to do anything I told him to do and that he didn't have to follow any of the rules. Jake and I made a monumental mistake last night by deciding to take the kids to eat. We decided to try Fusion Pizza. Absolutely loved the, all organic, food but don't ever take your kids there unless they are angles. We noticed 2 DIFFERENT couples ask if they could move to a different table and I am absolutely positive it was because of our kids. (I really didn't think they were that bad but apparently they were. By that point in my day I think I was just oblivious) So when we got home everyone just went there separate ways and this is where I found myself, in my pantry.(above picture) This was my hiding spot. Yes I know that we had just gotten home from eating but once again it was "just one of those days". I pulled out the Junior Mints, Licorice, Hot Tamales, and Pirates Booty and went to town. I thought it was a good hiding place but apparently I chew too loud and Madi (my oldest) found me and snuck a picture of me. I didn't even know she knew how to use a stinkin' camera!

Well today has been a little better. Like I said, I love my children but I'm sure glad I have treats hidden in my pantry for days like those!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RAGNAR......You don't scare me!!!

2009-03-04T18:21:00.000-08:00

Well.....actually........you kinda do!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ok everyone, this might not be any big deal to you but actually participating and finishing the Ragnar Relay Race was a huge deal and accomplishment for myself. I've ran a marathon before and although it was very hard I have to say that this race was a lot harder for me to actually run in and complete. Now this was hard for me but I have to say that this was, by far, the funnest, neatest thing I've ever done! I absolutely loved it!!!!!

Here we are (the first van of 6) at the start line. If you're looking at this picture thinking, "Man, why does Megan look like she's gonna pee her pants or maybe even throw up?" Well, I was the lead off leg for our team and let me tell you I could hardly stand up in this picture (above) I was that nervous!

Me, Tiffany, Katie, and Amber along side the highway waiting to cheer on our awesome teammates!
This was at the last exchange. I have to tell you how amazing these people in this picture are. They all pushed themselves to their limits and when they wanted to quit they pushed even harder because we were a team. I was so lucky to be part of such a great team.

Just say Ahhhh was our team name. Here we are at the finish line.
This "one mile to go" mile marker was out at the last mile of each leg. You either loved this sign or you hated it. You either saw this sign and cried because you did it and you were almost there or you saw this sign and cried because you didn't think you could go any further and you weren't done yet!

Now, this is my Brother in law Greg. He was the last leg of the 2nd van so every time he was done he would pass off to me. Seeing this man get closer and closer to me was seriously the scariest thing ever. Every time I saw him I would think to myself, "Holy Cow, please just turn around and run the other way Greg, I can't do this!" But for some strange reason he would never turn around, dang it, he just kept on coming :)

Everyone who ran at night had to wear these, oh so fashionable head lamps and reflector vests. Aren't they HOT!!!???

I feel a void. I feel so lost with out something to do. I don't have anything to train for anymore. I don't know what to do. I loved it and I hope that I get to do again next year, and the next year and next!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2009-03-03T11:55:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to take a quick second and wish my Sister-in-law's Malinda and Shelice a HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I love you 2 dearly and am better for knowing you!

GO JASE!!!!!!

2009-02-17T15:00:00.000-08:00

This last weekend we drove up to Utah to see my oldest nephew play Basketball. Besides the 5 inches of snow and freezing weather, we had a blast!!

I couldn't resist these pictures of Kash! The day we left I had a hair appointment with my, oh so awesome, sister-in-law Krystal and unfortunately I had to bring the little booger along. Getting his haircut and shampooed was his reward for being good. (he loves to get his haircut, crazy, I know)

This is my sister Mauri, her husband Jeff, and my, star basketball player, nephew Jase. It was senior night so they were introduced to the crowd with their parents.

They live in a pretty small town so everyone noticed the 20 new people in the crowd. WE were totally loud and obnoxious, I'm sure everyone was annoyed but we had an absolute blast!

Me and my beautiful sisters! I'm so lucky and blessed to have these ladies in my life! They are best example to me and I thank them for it!

I KNOW, I KNOW......

2009-01-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

With it not being my hubby's Birthday any more, (I love you Honey but a BIRTHDAY WEEK is long enough :) I figured I would think of something to post about. My husband stole my camera so he could take some pictures of one his property's and for some strange reason it's still not in my hands! So no pics in this one.

My children are all doing well. We just put Kash in a big boy bed! I know, can you believe it?! And for all of you who are going to comment, "Well, it's time to for another one!" Don't waste your breath. I'm good for now. I am so thankful for my sweet children and for now I need to focus on being a better mother. I'm still trying to figure out this whole motherhood deal. You would think that after 8 years I would have a little bit of knowledge. Ya......nope! I need help!

When I have my camera back I'll post some pics. Hope all of you are doing well!

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER!

2009-01-15T19:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the BEST MAN IN AMERICA!!! This guy right here is probably the funniest person you will ever meet in your entire life! I am a better person because of him. He always find humor in any situation, he is incredibly understanding and patient, he is loving and so many other things! Jake I love you dearly and thank you for letting me be a part of you life. I LOVE YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2008-12-27T15:33:00.000-08:00

WOW! Has it really been almost 3 weeks since I last posted?! My life has been a little crazy lately, as I'm sure all of yours has been, and our computer decided it didn't want to work for a little while but I'm back and for a very special reason. My not so little girl was baptized today!!! I can't tell enough how proud I am of this amazing little girl! I love her so much and I know, without a doubt, that she was sent to me so early in my life for a very special reason. This girl is seriously the best! Madi we love you and are so proud of you!!

Ok, funny story: Yesterday we were in the car and I look back at Madi and I could tell that she was deep in thought about something so I asked her what was up and she asks me, " Mom, what am I going to do? We haven't picked up mine and dad's karate looking suits yet!!!". I thought it was hilarious! She does have a good point. They do look a lot like those suits. :)

2008-12-06T07:23:00.000-08:00

“… the tests of life are tailored for our own best interests, and all will face the burdens best suited to their own mortal experience. In the end we will realize that God is merciful as well as just and that all the rules are fair. We can be reassured that our challenges will be the ones we needed, and conquering them will bring blessings we could have received in no other way. If we constantly focus only on the stones in our mortal path, we will almost surely miss the beautiful flower or cool stream provided by the loving Father who outlined our journey. Each day can bring more joy than sorrow when our mortal and spiritual eyes are open to God’s goodness. Joy in the gospel is not something that begins only in the next life. It is our privilege now, this very day. We must never allow our burdens to obscure our blessings. There will always be more blessings than burdens—even if some days it doesn’t seem so. Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Enjoy those blessings right now. They are yours and always will be.”

My sweet Sister-in-law returned back to her Father in Heaven yesterday evening. This quote is how she lived her life to a T. I love her and will miss her dearly. I am a better person because of her and her example to me. And to my brother Justin, you are amazing! Or as Susan would put it AWESOME! I love you and more importantly, our Heavenly Father loves you and will be there with you during this heart wrenching experience.

Susan, you will be missed. I loved you then, I love you now, and I will love you forever!!!!!!!

SUSAN TURLEY

May 7, 1983-December 5, 2008

IT'S GREAT TO BE 8!

2008-12-05T16:33:00.000-08:00

Today is my oldest baby's 8TH BIRTHDAY! Can you believe it? I have an 8 year old!! I want my sweet angel to know how thankful I am for her. I love her so much, I don't know what I would ever do without her. She is so caring and loving and so incredibly understanding of her crazy mom :) This girl has the funnest personality ever! She will make a best friend where ever she goes and everybody just loves her.

Here are just a few pictures of this silly little girl.......

(she used to just sit on the corner for hours doing nothing)

Her favorite messiest food to eat....spaghetti

before surgery

She just had to be baby Jesus last year in the childrens version of the story of baby Jesus. (I know it looks bad but she's just a kid :)

It was crazy hair day today so she convinced me to do it!

Madi Bear, I love you so much! YOu are the bestest 8 year old ever!!!

2008-12-02T15:12:00.000-08:00

I am not going to go into much detail right now but I have a sister-in-law who is losing her battle with colon cancer. I feel so helpless right now so this is where we all come in. I would ask that whoever is reading this blog will please include her, Susan, and my brother, Justin, in your prayers. Thank you all, and I love you!

Megan

2008-11-24T19:53:00.000-08:00

Oh, I am so excited!! We will be going to Disneyland for the Thanksgiving Holiday with the whole Allen famdamly :)
Hope you all enjoy your Turkey Day ................................... while we will be here.......................

I'M DOOMED!!!!

2008-11-21T10:22:00.001-08:00

I haven't been posting because I'm soooooooo mad at myself! This is what I've been up to the last week or so............stuffing my face with these yummy treats! Uggg :(

FAILURE

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

DAY 1 (my second day 1) OF NO SUGAR - Failed miserably!!!!!! I do have high hopes for Monday though :) (I can't start a no sugar thing on a Saturday right?!)

2008-11-07T11:09:00.000-08:00

TUESDAY (Day one of no sugar) - Good, did not cheat!

WEDNESDAY (Day two of no sugar) - Good, didn't eat any sugar, had a headache, but did not cheat!

THURSDAY (Day three of no sugar) - CRAPPY!!! Went to a Birthday Party and ate all the yummy treats I could get my hands on! :) And oh where those Oreo and cream cheese balls dipped in white chocolate soooooooo good! It was all worth it :)

I am so mad at myself. So now, on FRIDAY, I start all over at Day one! Once again, good luck to me :(

2008-11-04T19:31:00.001-08:00

OK BROOKE, THIS ONE'S FOR YOU! My last post consisted of me complaining about all the sugar I have been eating and the fact that I CANNOT STOP!! I have been thinking a lot today about this MONUMENTAL problem and I have decided that I will no longer be a slave to sugar. I know I am not the only one that feels this way :) I have never been one to stick to a strict diet, especially when you have to omit an entire food group, but I really need to do something. So I am choosing to post this on my blog to ensure a sense of responsibility to myself, to actually do what I say. So here goes..............................................wait for it...............................................................
I WILL NOT EAT SUGARY TREATS UNTIL OUR ALLEN TRIP TO DISNEYLAND FOR THANKSGIVING!!!!! Wow, that felt good! I'll let you know how long this lasts but I'm really crossing my fingers for this one!

Oh and by the way, Brooke, YOU are the cutest girl that I know and you are not allowed to be a part of this because you are pregnant and you have 3 children and you deserve to treat yourself to whatever you want. Now as for myself, I have no excuses!

Good luck to me :)

SUGAR RUSH!

2008-11-04T11:55:00.000-08:00

HELP! I seriously cannot stay away from the dang sugar! Ya know, I love Halloween but I sure could do without all the sugar. It didn't help me any by starting out the Halloween weekend by going to the Arizona State Fair and eating my, oh so delicious, FRIED Oreos! I know they're terrible but they are oh so good!!
When I looked at this picture I just laughed so hard because Dani wanted to go "rest her legs" but 2 seconds after sitting down she ran right back to me and said she was done resting and now looking at this picture I know why she was done so quickly. I mean look at this guy, does he n0t look a little scary to you?

On Halloween, Dani's class put on a little performance of some very cute Halloween songs. She did great!

Of course we couldn't miss the Halloween Parade! Here is Madi with her Wonder Woman pose.

And of course Dani as Super Woman. We called them the Super Sisters!

After the parade and Dani's performance, Jake and Dani participated in the pumpkin carving event. Dani was so proud of her and her dad's work.

That night Jake's parents neighborhood has a chili and fry bread dinner that we go to every year before we venture out do our trick or treating. Here are most of the cousins. I was really impressed with all the creativity this year for all the costumes.

We own a choo-choo train that the kids just can't get enough of! Thanks to their Grandad they arrived at the dinner in style.

On Saturday I woke up early to go to the gym to try and work off all the crap I ate and I came home to my wonderful husband outside feeding my kids their Halloween candy for breakfast!!

(I know, Kash looks awesome. It's a free-for-all when dad's in charge :)

2008-10-31T15:40:00.000-07:00

I think I'm a better blog-hopper than a blogger but I really am trying. I know it's Halloween today but I thought I would post our Mexico pictures now so I wouldn't get so behind. 2 weeks ago we took a quick trip to Rocky Point and joined my ever-so-sweet sister and her family. Holy Crap! We stayed in my new favorite place, the Las Palomas Beach Resort. I don't think I can ever stay anywhere else ever again, I'm hooked!!!!! Just look at the view from our room.
Of coarse, we could not go to Mexico and not get the girls hair braided. That's the first thing my girls wanted to do when we got there.

This is my silly sister. She had just got done running (by the way, who goes running while on vacation, I mean come on!! She didn't just take jog around the place, she ran 10 miles. She's nuts!)

Do they not look drunk to you?!

My Kash man was glued to this guy! This is my oldest nephew, Jase, and he is the best!

Yes, he really is picking his nose with his tongue!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm holding on to him so tight because there was a stray dog walking around and he would not leave me alone and I'm pretty sure he had some disease. (not jake, the dog)

Kash walked around with this thing the entire 3 days!

This is how the kids slept. Aren't they precious?!

Kash got sick of eating sand so he stuck to the pools.

Oh yes, I cannot forget to wish my fabulous sister in law, Liz the Happiest Of Birthdays today! I love you Liz!!!

2008-10-27T20:22:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I went up to Utah to visit my sister Mauri, and let me tell, it was a blast!! She is such a good host! Here is a picture of her bathing her duck, yes I said duck, Daisy in her kitchen sink!!!!!! She really is hilarious!

The first 2 days were gorgeous and then all the sudden we woke up Saturday morning to this.....

YES THIS IS SNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My kids were in Heaven :)

So, a few months previous she had offered to throw a suprise sweet 16 party for one of my neice's friends so all night we were prisoners to her master bedroom. For real, there was 10 of us in their room but it actually was quite fun. The boys all called the bed so they could see the tv better so us girls sat on the floor and had a fashion show with all of Mauri's clothes. (Thanks Mauri, you are definitely the fun aunt now :)

It was such a fun trip. So fun, in fact, they talked us into going down to Mexico to spend a couple of days with them on their vacation.

(Those pictures to come at a later date)

2008-10-16T16:31:00.000-07:00

AND WE'RE OFF!!!!! BIENVENIDOS A MEXICO!!!!!

IS THIS FOR REAL?

2008-10-07T16:38:00.000-07:00

Seriously, am I ready for this? I thought I was and I really was so excited to go to Utah and escape these dang 90's that we can't get away from until I scrolled down and looked at FRIDAY!!!!!!!! Are you stinkin' kidding me?!!!

Detailed Forecast for Cedar City, Utah
Tonight
Mostly ClearLow 39°F
Mostly clear. Lows in the upper 30s.

Wednesday
SunnyHigh 79°F
Sunny. Highs in the upper 70s.

Wednesday Night
Mostly ClearLow 41°F
Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.

Thursday
WindyHigh 71°F
Windy...Sunny. Highs in the lower 70s. South winds 10 to 20 mph increasing to southwest 20 to 30 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night
Partly CloudyLow 39°F
Breezy. Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 30s. South winds 15 to 25 mph in the evening.

Friday
Chance Of RainHigh 65°F
Partly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of rain. Highs in the mid 60s.

Friday Night
Chance Of RainLow 30°F
Partly cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain. Lows around 30.

Saturday
SnowHigh 45°F
Snow likely. Highs in the mid 40s. Chance of snow 60 percent.

Saturday Night
Partly CloudyLow 29°F
Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s. Highs around 50.

Sunday
Partly CloudyHigh 50°FLow 29°F
Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s.

2008-10-05T15:51:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!!!! Today is my sweet moms birthday! I love her very dearly and am so thankful for her as she has put up with 27 years of me! (I don't think anyone else could or would do that) I'm not at my computer so I don't have any pictures to post but I just wanted my mom to know how much I love her and how grateful I am to her for giving me life and teaching me how to live it to the fullest. I love you Mom!!

2008-10-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

I HATE MOSQUITOES!!!!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD AND GRANDPA!!

2008-09-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

Today is my Dad's Birthday!!!! He really is such a great person. He has set such and example for all of us kids and I just want to thank him for that! There is just something about him that makes all of the grand kids just flock to him. He's definitely not a little man, he stands at 6 foot 5 inches, but yet he is the biggest teddy bear ever! Dad I love you dearly. I'm so blessed to have you as my Dad!! And Grandpa, we love you!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

FUNNY GIRL!

2008-09-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

We have a funny girl on our hands!! As I was sitting here at the computer blog hopping, I hear this "beautiful" music. Where was this music coming from you might ask? None other than a recorder that Kash got for his birthday (seriously, why would somebody do that to me?!). I finally peeled my eyes away from the computer to find this......................

She proceeds to tell me that she now knows what she is going to do for talent day!!

2008-09-22T16:51:00.000-07:00

My sweet Madi biffed it last night at our weekly Sunday dinner at the Allen's and lost half of her tooth. Luckily we have so many wonderful friends and we were able to get her into to a family friend, Dr. Giles, who is fabulous by the way!! Everything went well, they gave her a little laughing gas (which she was not happy with because it didn't actually make her laugh :) and bonded the piece right back on. I got a little more information than I was hoping for at this visit. He told me she's got an extra tooth right in the middle of her 2 front teeth ( hence the gap) and that it's impacted, so that needs to be taken out soon, and she also has a jaw alignment problem that is pretty severe so he's thinking an orthodontist will probably want to do 2 phases of braces on her (one now and one when she's older). Poor girl!

I am so proud of my little girl! She was so brave, she didn't even need her mommy there! ( don't worry I went back despite her wishes :) She did great and her beautiful smile is back! Love you girl!

2008-09-17T16:37:00.000-07:00

I would like to introduce you to my new best friends! They are so good to me and only have my best interest ( and sanity) in mind. I love you guys :) !

Is He For Real?!

2008-09-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

So, last week, Kash was chosen to be "Student Of The Month" at his pre-school so we filled out this fun poster his teacher sent home with him (by the way, Happy Birthday to Miss Kelli tomorrow!) and I am just feeling to excited for him. He's my youngest, he's only 2, and he gets to do all this cute, fun stuff for school and he loves it because he thinks he is such a big boy so of course I had to get a picture of this event and this is what I get!!!! Seriously Kash, do you really hate the camera that much?!

On Sunday we sat down to eat dinner together and he would not eat without his stinkin' bat!! Is this kid for real?!

2008-09-08T13:25:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty chill weekend. Friday we were able to go and celebrate a good friend of mine, Caryn's, Birthday!!! Caryn I love you! Then Saturday started off with the Crosspoint Ward Humanitarian Ward Party (whew, that was a long one). It actually turned out great! All of the kids had a blast putting together school kits, hygiene kits and newborn kits. It was extremely successful and the company was great!

We were invited to go the ASU game with my sister and her husband (huge ASU fans!!) I have to admit, I did feel a little guilty going seeing as how I will always be a U of A fan in support of my Brother, Ryan, who played for U of A but it was still a blast. There were conditions to being able to go though. The rules were:
1) You have to want to go.
2) You have to eat a lot of food.
and 3) You have to yell and cheer really loud!
I'm pretty sure we accomplished all of the above! Thanks Tera and Greg, we had a blast!

Oh, My Baby Is 2! Hand Me a Tissue!

2008-08-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

(I know I post way too many pictures, but I couldn't resist!)
My sweet little boy turned 2 today! I think I have already gone through an entire box of tissue's! This little man is everything I had hoped for! He is such a sweet boy. He never forgets his Please and Thank you's, and his "I sowwy momma's" are to die for. He really is a good little boy. The first year and half of his life was a little rough but we definitely made it through and I could not be happier!

On Thurs. he took treats to his preschool class. IN the first 3 pictures you will notice that he HATES to have his picture taken. If he even sees the camera emerge out of my purse he looses it! If I want to take a picture of him and not have it turn out like these I have to be very sneaky.

So for the start of his Birthday Celebration we took him to the "D-Backs" game. And let me tell you he was in Heaven! We sat in the 3rd row in left field. It was awesome! And our kids were great, Hallelujah!

Here he is yelling at the top of his lungs (and he's got good one's) "Go D-Backs"!!!!

Enjoying his chicken nuggets. (Todd, I decided not to show Jake eating his food :)

We had all of our family over today for a little party. We served them Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, chips and soda. Kash totally scored on his presents, Thank you everyone for coming! As you can see by the look on his face he is so excited!

I didn't do a very good job at hiding the camera, dang it!

I actually got him to smile. (yes that is really how he smiles!)

Playing with some of his birthday toys :)

Kash, we love you dearly. You are my little sweetheart and mommy loves you!

A LITTLE PEACE AND QUIET

2008-08-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

Jake and I took a little getaway to Cali this last weekend and if it weren't for my sweet, adorable 3 little kiddos back at home I probably would not have come back! And if it weren't for my awesome sister-in-law and brother-in-law we would not have been able to go. So thanks Krystal and Jason, you guys are the best! We stayed in the Pacific Terrace hotel right off Pacific Beach and man-o-man it was fantastic! When we got there they had double booked our room so we had to stay in a non-ocean view room for one night but they then hooked us up with a Presidential Sweet overlooking the ocean! It was absolutely gorgeous!!

(Jake made me take this picture!! :) I love you babe! Thanks for a great weekend!

Life couldn't not get any better!

We could not go to San Diego and not see the, ever so beautiful, San Diego Temple!!

This is what Jake was to me all weekend! He let me spend whatever I wanted. ( To bad all we bought was food! I know, lame, but it was so stinkin' good!)

Here we are eating breakfast at a fun little joint by our Hotel.

Ok, I could have stayed here and watched this guy all day. Watching the people walk by him and yell at the top of their lungs when he moved toward them was extremely entertaining.

Of course he had to ride the roller coaster. I am pretty proud of myself that I was able to capture this picture :)

Our last afternoon, we had some time to kill so we walked around Mission Beach and we stumbled across this awesome pizza joint with monstrously huge pizza slices. If you look closely it is almost twice the size of the plate and it was one of those Costco plates and those are not small.

And yes, I did eat the whole thing!!!

THE END!

A WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE :)

2008-08-21T15:44:00.000-07:00

First off, let me tell you all how much I LOVE this girl! Stephanie, or Stephan-elbow as I know her, has all the qualities of a friend that I wish I had. I had to opportunity to go to a fun little baby shower/luncheon for this special girl who has 3 handsome boys and who is soon going to have a sweet, pink loving little girl. Stephanie, I love you and am so glad you are finally here!

Caryn looks so excited that I took this picture :)

Here are my sweet little angels holding their knew cousins Maddox and Rigdon.

This is Ellie, Dani's favoritest cousin. (the twins older and only sister)

Madi and Ellie with the twiners!

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-08-19T20:20:00.001-07:00

Hooray for my Sister-in-law Amber!! Her sweet baby boys (yes her 2nd set of twins) were born today, August 19th, so Happy Birthday Maddox Steven and Rigdon Noel!!! We are so excited to have you here with us! You both are so stinkin' cute!!! Congrats Amber and Todd, you've done good!!

A WHOLE LOT A NOTHIN'

2008-08-17T15:03:00.000-07:00

Well we made it through the first week of school! My kids were happy, no tears were shed, and we're all alive. We decided to have a relaxing day at home on Saturday and had a complete blast. I forgot how nice it was to have absolutely nothing that I "had" to do. I went to the gym in morning and when I got home I proceeded to walk to the garage door and lo and behold, what do I smell? A hot pancake breakfast courtesy of the Nation's #1 Husband and Dad. We then played in the sprinklers, went swimming @ Nanna and Grandad's, and ended the day with a scrumptious dinner @ Gecko Grill. ( our favorite place)

Kash got thirsty :)

Kash had to have his own bowl of beans and salsa! No Joke!
Isn't his technique great? :)
I took pictures of Kash so of course I had to take pictures of my girls.
I told Madi to smile and this is what I got. She is so funny!

2008-08-15T14:20:00.000-07:00

Is this not the cutest picture?! (Thanks Amber and Todd) Kash is obsessed with the puppies! I think he wanted them all on his lap at one time but the puppies weren't havin' it. These puppies are for sale so if any of you out there are interested leave a comment and I will give more info.

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!

2008-08-13T13:17:00.001-07:00

WARNING: Picture Overload! Ok So I haven't had a lot of time to sit at the computer and post all of the fun things the Allen Family has done in the last week so you are lucky enough to enter into picture overload :)

Saturday was our version of "Allen Family Fun Day" (thanks Rasmussen's for the fun idea). We started out with a yummy breakfast at the, ever so popular, Wild berry Dinner!! No, seriously, we wanted to try something different so we just drove down Main Street and pulled into the first place we saw. The food and service was delicious and a little shout out to our waitress who was, no joke, 90 years old! We actually really liked her but apparently the owners of the place were not impressed with her that day. She totally got yelled at in front everybody because she was not greeting the newcomers at the door. Poor lady :(

(Dani did not join us for breakfast b/c she had a B-day party)

Jake was not very happy with me when I took this picture! Ha!
If you look closely at Madi's cheeks you can see that she has taken way too big of a bite.
Kash is just happy that he finally got to eat breakfast!

Ok so after breakfast we took the kids swimming at my in-laws, after we drove around for an hour to all, yes all, of the junior high pools realizing the none of them were open! I didn't take any pictures of that event. You're welcome for sparing you the sight of us in our bathing suits.

We then took the kids to Peter Piper Pizza for lunch and games. They really do have fantastic pizza.

This picture is kind of dark but I couldn't resist!

Like Father, Like Daughter.
This dumb hammer thing was so heavy he could hardly pick it up.

After that we went to see Nim's Island at the dollar theatre (sorry not pics again) and that was the finale of our fun last day of summer.

Later that night I took the kids to get haircuts from their GREATEST AUNT KRYSTAL, who is a hair genius!

Dani has been begging me for about 2 months to cut a short hair cut so we bit the bullet and........

Tadaa!!!
Isn't it adorable?! We actually ended up taking it a little shorter in the back a few days ago so it's even shorter than this pic and she absolutely loves it! She asked me right after she was done, "Mom, it's not going to grow back is it?" Thanks Krystal!

We have a tradition that the day before school starts we put on a fashion show of their new school clothes! They look forward to this all summer, they're such girls :)

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR MADI AND DANI!

Kash would not get out of the picture!

On Tuesday my baby had his first day of Play School! Can you believe it?! He goes 3 days a week to Miss Kelli's ( who is fabulous by the way) and he loves it! Although he did not love getting his picture taken for his first day, the little stinker.

When I got him out of the car he didn't even look back! I don't even think a missed me!

THE END!

2008-07-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

This is why I love Costco!! These rolls of toilet paper and paper towels kept my kids entertained for hours. I painted my entire kitchen while these silly little kids made towers and "went bowling" with these "toys". Oh, if the inventors of these wonderful paper products only knew how far there items would go. Whatever your names are, THANK YOU SO MUCH!! :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROCKWELL!

2008-07-29T10:17:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR ROCKWELL, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!! Today my nephew, Rockwell, turns the big 4! This past weekend we celebrated the big day with a fantastic swim party and BBQ. There was good food, candy, cake, presents and so much more. It was a great day! HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG BOY!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELLIE FAYE!

2008-07-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love my sweet Ellie Faye Earnest! Today is my little neice's Birthday. She is turning the BIG 5 today! She is the funnest, sweetest, most spunkiest little 5 year old I know(besides my own:) ) Ellie we love you so much and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!

Oh ya! Camp Lomia Baby!!!

2008-07-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

Oh yes! Camp Lomia once again!
This past week I had the wonderful opportunity to go to girl's camp at good old Camp Lomia. For some strange reason unknown to myself I was called to be the camp director for my ward. I wasn't too sure if they really knew what they were doing when they called me but, man, let me tell ya it was definitely in my top 5 best experiences in my life!!! We are part of such a great stake and were really blessed to have great leaders on a stake level. There main goals were to find a way to make sure the girls had a great, fun time but also to make sure they were able to feel the spirit. And feel the Spirit we did! They prepared the best classes for these girls from family and education to word of wisdom and language. There were so much more but I know that if I write about all of them I will be here for hours! The Spirit was so strong up there and I know had a lot to do with all of the hard work and prayers of all the leaders up there!

We have the best group of girls in our ward! I love them so much! Our theme this year was "The Amazing Race.....Decisions Determine Destiny". Each ward was to choose a country to represent and the girls were given passports so they could go and visit all the countries while at camp. We were given "Race" challenges everyday to complete. I'm tellin' ya, this camp experience was "AMAZING"!!!!!

Here are my wonderful girls!!

We did a dance of Spain for our skit. The girls danced the Flamenco while the matador and bull had it out for each other. They all did so good and I am so proud of all of them.

I don't know how this happened but some how my name ended up on the board to go on the most difficult hike with the 3rd year girls. Thanks for carrying me when I got tired girls :)

Isn't this so fitting?! (Notice the name on the sign)

Oh ya, did I forget to mention that on the last day after I had spent 2 hours packing my car to go home, my car WOULD NOT START!!!!!!! We seriously tried everything. Nothing worked so I hitched a ride with 2 sweet sisters who are now my new best friends :) and when I got home my wonderful and patient husband who had just spent 5 days with our kids had to turn around and drive up to Camp Lomia and tow it home! What a life, huh?!

I feel so blessed to be able to spend so much time with the youth in our ward. Times are so scary out in the world right now and yet these girls are so strong! Stronger than I ever was! I'm so fortunate to have their good examples in my life. Love you all!!!

Train Stop Shirt Dress GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

2008-07-21T15:13:00.000-07:00

Train Stop Shirt Dress GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!