Carrie's Corner

Snails!!!

2010-05-21T17:16:00.003-06:00

Our first morning in CA, we woke up to fog. At least it looked like just fog, but when we walked outside it was "misting" (for lack of a better word). It was just wet. My curls came alive with new purpose! I've never seen weather like it!
Then we found we had some new pets outside our front door. Snails!! The kids were in heaven!

We convinced the kids that we couldn't keep the snails, but they sure spent hours loving them. At one point I had a snail on my bathroom counter, and at another point they were all lined up on the floor just inside our door. Such excitement!!

Our Stop In Vegas

2010-05-21T16:32:00.003-06:00

So, on our way to Tehachapi, CA we stopped in Vegas. We thought it would be a good idea to break up the drive a bit.

Of course we had to stop at the Coke store. We timed it just right and we were able to take a picture with the Coke bear. So fun, right? He even nibbled a bit on Shaun's head.

Haylie loved the big buildings, the Bellagio fountains, and weirdly enough, the escalators. I think they were her favorite part of all! We had to ride every one that we saw!

Here is Tayson and Haylie by the alligator outside of the Rainforest Cafe. We ate there twice since it was so much fun! The kids loved the real looking sky and animals! So much fun!

Here they are outside of MGM. We didn't get too many pictures since we were on the go all of the time.

Oh Spongebob! Can't go anywhere without seeing you! Haylie ran right up to him and gave him a big hug!

I think Tayson's favorite part was the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay. We didn't get any pictures, but we spent half a day there and walking to and from. Tayson also really liked the Tram that we rode back to our hotel. We also played a couple of games at Excalibur. Tayson even won a stuffed animal!

The kids didn't want to leave Vegas and are hoping for a stop there on the return trip to Logan. Oh...Shaun and I had a good time, too! It was so much fun to show the kids everything that we always talked about. Of course we didn't see all of the strip, and look forward to taking them again. All in all, a very fun vacation!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-04T09:16:00.003-07:00

My sweet Tayson and Haylie. Sure do love them!

How sweet can you get?

This year we decided to get a live Christmas tree. We even splurged and got it flocked. Add some new ornaments, and voila! A perfect Christmas tree!

Merry Christmas!

Update in Pics

2009-10-09T12:35:00.005-06:00

Oh my! It has been so long since I have posted anything!
This summer was awesome! Shaun was actually around and we got to spend a lot of time together! We took a little trip to Yellowstone:

Then Tayson started second grade! My baby is sooo big and handsome!

Then we found a new hairdo for Haylie:

That's about all that is new with us. Shaun is back in school working on his Master's degree. He is very busy and stressed out. I just keep telling him that it will all be worth it in the long run!
Tayson is enjoying being able to walk to school and in fact, he can see home from his classroom window! Pretty cool! He has been working hard and saving his money and was able to buy himself two froggies. Very cute.
Haylie is just at home with me and we enjoy our time together.
Hopefully I'll keep this thing updated a bit more often now. Here's hopin......

Crazy Post

2009-09-02T10:12:00.003-06:00

So, while reading my friends blog, I found this site.
http://www.aussiebloggers.com.au/blogpost.html

It generates a blog post for you when you can't think of your own. So much fun! Give it a try!
Here's mine.

Holy Snapping Duck Do! I just climbed out from under my rock and realised I have not updated this since people stopped clapping and Tinkerbell died... You would not believe the fairy dust I have to clean up. But I'm sorry you'll just have to take my word for it..

I am absolutely consumed with feeding the little people, driving from one end of the city to the other, just generally being a delightful mistress to my husband, my day is a magical flight from the moment my children manage to unlock my bedroom door and use me as a jumping castle until I feel like going to bed. I am totally loving it, dudes. Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get.

I send you kisses! I will write something that makes sense soon. Honestly! What do you mean you don't believe me?.

Birthday Beauty!!

2009-07-21T13:40:00.002-06:00

Almost Three and a Party!

2009-07-20T18:15:00.004-06:00

My little Haylie is going to be three tomorrow! Can you believe it? I know people say it all the time, but it really does feel as though we just brought her home from the hospital!

We had a party with some friends today. It was a short guest list. Lisa, and her beautiful girls came over along with Mara and handsome Landon! We had creamies, blew bubbles, played in the sand and chatted. It was the perfect simple party for my little girl!

Here is the whole crew.

Tayson and Cheyenne

Haylie was so excited to get new skates from Mara and Landon. I think she may sleep with them!!! Thanks again, guys!

Here is a picture of Mara, Landon and Haylie! How cute are they?

After the party we had a quick lunch, nap and then it was off to the movies! Haylie hasn't been to a movie since she was a tiny baby, due to some unruly behavior in the past! :0) We thought we'd try it again, since she is sooo big and a whopping three years old now! We went and saw Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs. It was so cute, and Haylie loved it! Tayson said it was his favorite Ice Age so far!

We had a wonderful "pre-birthday" day for Haylie. Now...here's hoping tomorrow, her actual birthday, will be as memorable!

An Update.....Finally!

2009-07-02T14:40:00.003-06:00

Well, it has been forever since I have posted! Crazy!

We have moved to our new 3 bedroom apartment. It is so nice to have the kids in their own rooms, and actually have enough room to breath again! I am not so sure I like this neighborhood as much, but we'll only be here a year, so we'll survive!

Mother's Day was wonderful! Shaun got me a beautiful clock that I wanted. He also made me breakfast in bed and let me sleep in...divine! It just so happened that our 7 year wedding anniversary fell on that day too. We spent the day playing at the park and relaxing....very nice!

Father's Day has passed too! We got Shaun a CD, and a book that he had been eyeing. We hope he had a wonderful day!

Tayson has promoted from a orange belt to a purple belt in Karate. This means he moves up to the next class and also starts sparring! Very exciting stuff for my little man!!

Haylie's big news is.....drum roll please.....she is the proud new wearer of PANTIES!!! Yes, we finally did it, my friends! We got that girl to sit on the pot! We are still working on nap time and nighttime, but she is doing GREAT!!

So, that is our family update. We are doing great and enjoying summer so far! Maybe if I posted more often I would be able to include more details! I'll work on that...

Mr. Smarty Pants!

2009-04-28T19:24:00.002-06:00

So I haven't posted for awhile since some big changes are in progress at our house.
I am so proud of Shaun! Words cannot even describe it! The semester is coming to an end, and we THOUGHT that his school career was over. Shaun has finished up his school work for a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering with and emphasis in Aerospace. BUT, he will not be walking or receiving his degree this May. Why you ask? Because Shaun is too smart and amazing (yes, I know I'm gushing!) to just get a bachelor's. He was awarded a FULL RIDE SCHOLARSHIP TO DO A MASTERS PROGRAM!!!!!! How exciting is that? Fully paid tuition, books, a salary and a job upon completion of his master's degree! It is very prestigious and such an honor! No one deserves this more! He has worked so hard to do amazing in school, be an awesome father and wonderful husband! I don't know how he does it all! It was definitely a hard decision with many other job opportunities coming in, and the chance to be done with school, but we knew it was best in the long run to continue his education.
So, you may also be asking why he doesn't get his bachelor's now? Well, because of his grades, and many other things, he qualifies to do the concurrent master's program which means that two of his undergraduate classes will also go towards his masters, making the process that much quicker! Although we are disappointed that he won't be walking, we are so thrilled with the opportunities he has been given...or should I say earned?
So, this leaves us here for another year and a half to two years. We decided that we just can't take a two bedroom apartment for that much longer and will be moving to a three bedroom this weekend! So, while Shaun has been studying, I have been packing and cleaning. Very exciting times for us!
A quick, cute story about Haylie that I just have to share. She went with me apartment hunting. At, one apartment, as I opened a door to the closet, I mentioned that it was big enough for her to sleep in. From that moment on, every closet we looked in, Haylie said, "This Haylie's go night night!" You should have seen the looks I got from the people showing me the apartment! :0) So funny!
Well, off to do more packing and cleaning.
Congratulations, Shaun! We are so proud of you! We love you and appreciate all you do for us! You've earned this! Enjoy the perks of being so hardworking and brilliant!

Easter!

2009-04-19T21:35:00.004-06:00

Easter Morning.
A picture is worth a thousand words!
Aren't they so stinking cute?

Orange is the new Yellow

2009-03-26T10:25:00.009-06:00

Tayson promoted from a yellow belt to an orange belt last night! He rocked as he showed us all how well he knew his stuff! This is a pic of him and his teacher, Mr. Smith.
This is a video of Tayson's yellow belt form. He's the little guy front and center. Make sure to watch his face at the very end! What a cute smile! "I did it!" ( p.s. Just pause my play list so you can hear the video.)

This is a video of Tayson's actual promotion from yellow to orange! Way to go buddy! We're so proud of you! Check out that mean "chicken kick" right before he gets his new belt! Awesome!!!

Cold, Hard, Truth

2009-03-20T16:38:00.001-06:00

Things No One Told Me Before I Had Children

You will have to sweep your kitchen floor 3-4 times a day if you ever want a clean kitchen floor.

Kids don't thank you for clean bums, clean clothes, yummy food, or regular sleeping schedules.

You will spend more time cleaning dried cereal or yogurt off your kitchen walls and floor, than you will ever spend actually eating cereal or yogurt.

Having children will make you fat.

All children are actually deaf.

A grouchy 5-year-old is worse than a roommate with PMS.

One small child with one small sharpie in one small minute can do more damage than you would ever think possible.

Kids are born obnoxious, insanely nerdy, and disgusting. You have to spend practically every waking moment trying to correct this.

You will repeat yourself until the sound of your own voice makes your head want to explode. And not even for things you should have to say.

You will say things you never ever in a million years thought you'd say or even considered as words people uttered. Or thought. Like, "Because sticking your finger in there makes your hand smell, and it's disgusting" or "Get out of the queso!" or "I can't wipe if you are going to dance around like that" or "No, it is not Sarah's fault that you just pooped all over my bathroom."

Your respect for single mothers who are making it work will be born and multiply a hundred times over.

You will actually get maxed out and THEN some on physical contact.

Bathing regularly will be a luxury.

Your drinks will perpetually have floaties if you don't put them out of reach of your children.

There is no such thing as "out of reach of your children".

The delusion of being in charge is real, and gets shattered often.

Nothing you do stays done.

You will hit your emotional and mental wall, even if nothing else in life has made you do that.

There is no such thing as adult conversation when kids are awake.

You will spend the first 15 minutes of your peace and quiet and alone time with your husband---talking about the children.

Toilets, vacuums, outlets, cell phones, car keys, and drawers hold more appeal than any toy for any amount of money that your child has.

Poop and snot become significantly less disgusting. But still disgusting.

You will always feel like you aren't doing good enough, even if you spent the first 25 years of your life feeling like you are the best thing that ever happened to the word "average".

Your children learning hard lessons will feel more painful for you than them.

There are no words to describe the emotion you will feel when it comes to protecting your child.

Your tolerance for Disney movies expands exponentially. The equations breaks down to something like this FORMALLY SUPER ANNOYING + PEACE AND QUIET=BEST MOVIE EVER AND YOU WANT TO KISS Ol' WALT.

You will actually get stupider. See?

When it is time to prepare dinner, your children will have a completely urgent and irrepressible need to be held. Or to write on walls.

"Children should be seen and not heard" won't seem so rude anymore.

The sound of your child's laughter will always be the most wonderful sound you hear in a day.

Seeing your husband's eyes or manner of speaking in your child will always make your heart melt.

Watching your children explore and learn and grow will bring you pure joy.

"Mom, I love you" makes SO much worthwhile.

You will never get tired of your children's speech impediment.

You will lose all sense of social appropriateness and talk about things that are only interesting to you, really think your child is the cutest child ever born, and be unable to talk about anything intelligent.

You will cherish the little things because you know you should and you know you'll be glad you did.

You will screw up royally. A lot.

You won't feel it day to day, and it will be hard, and feel unrewarding, but in the end, when you have done your best, you will see that it was enough.

Overfilled

2009-03-18T13:50:00.001-06:00

My Cup Runneth Over!

Tehachapi, CA

2009-03-18T13:03:00.009-06:00

For Shaun's Spring Break we decided to head to Tehachapi, CA and check out where we MAY be living in the near future. We spent three nights there. It is SO gorgeous there! It is a tiny town up in the mountains that has so much personality. Here is a picture of the beautiful view out the car window while driving.Here are the windmills that Tehachapi is known for.

This is the "Tehachapi Loop". It is a train track that makes a loop to climb up a steep mountain. Shaun and I took a drive up the side of the mountain, on a long, narrow, winding road to see it. It was so pretty, even if it was a little scary!

Shaun and I spent a night in Vegas on the way home. We were sick, running fevers and feeling awful, but had fun anyway. This is us at The Rainforest Cafe in the MGM. It is my very favorite place to eat while in Vegas.

Check out the fish we got to sit next to! Very fun!

We had a good break, but missed our kids like crazy! I hated leaving them for so long, even if it was nice and relaxing!

Hubbers!

2009-02-28T12:21:00.011-07:00

So I was tagged, and thought this one looked like fun. Here I go:

My Hubby

1. How did you meet your husband? We met through my friend that worked with him. We ran into each other up at USU and were introduced.

2. How long did you date before getting married? About 14 months.

3. How long have you been married? 6 yrs and 9 months

4. What does he do that surprises you? His quick wit and sense of humor always surprises me! And coming home with chocolate for me is always a nice surprise too! Thanks, Babe!

5. What is your favorite feature of his? Gorgeous baby blue eyes!

6. What is his best quality? He is dependable, determined, hardworking, and a loving husband and father.

7. Does he have a nickname for you? Baby Cakes.

8. What is his favorite food? hmm...I'm not sure. He loves fresh veggies, especially peppers.

9. What is his favorite sport? Hmm...who has time for sports when in school? We enjoyed watching the Superbowl, though, so I'm going to say football.

10. When did you first kiss? When playing corners in the car turned into me seeing stars and laying on his lap after I bumped my head hard on the window. I guess he wanted to kiss me better! :0)

11. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? Oh dear....TMI!!! J/K. We are big movie fans and most nights find us enjoying a new Netfix together.

12. Do you have any children? A handsome Tayson (7 yrs) and adorable Haylie (2 yrs)

13. Does he have any hidden talents? Oh...too many to count! He plays guitar, does photography, restores cars, had his Realtor license at one point and many, many more!

14. How old is he? 29 yrs

15. What is his favorite music? Shaun LOVES music! When I asked him what his FAVORITE music was he said, "I like music ranging from the 1950's to the early 2000's. This is including, oldies, blues, classic rock, heavy metal, old country (Johny Cash) and some butt rock." He then stated that it's a question that no one should be able to answer. There is just so much awesome music out there! ...think he might be a bit passionate about music? :0).....

16. What do you admire about him? I admire his intelligence, passion, and determination!

17. What is his favorite color? Blue

18. What is unique about him? He's mine! No really, he is very unique and I'm so glad he's mine.

19. What are some of his favorite phrases? "I don't cry, I'm not a baby!" , "Want me to hit you in it?" He's also been known to quote "The Office" and many, many other movies!

20. Who said "I love you" first? You know? I honestly can't remember. He said it first today!

21. I tag everyone who is willing!

New Glasses!!!

2009-02-24T12:29:00.010-07:00

Tayson got his glasses yesterday!!! How handsome is my little man? So scholarly and intellectual, don't ya think? He's been so excited to get his glasses and yesterday was finally the day! We've talked and talked and talked about how to take care of them and he even impressed the people that were fitting his glasses with how much he knew and how careful he was! What a big day for him! I still remember when I got my first pair of glasses. I was only one year older than him! It's crazy how fast the time flies and how fast they grow! What a cute kid!!
Here is a new picture of my little girl. Not a baby anymore! Look how long her hair is!!! So pretty, so grown up! I can't believe how big she is! We are officially done with the Binky and now she says that she is a big girl. Haylie no longer wants her booster seat at the table (we took that down for her) or her car seat (sorry, kiddo...that will be there for awhile yet!). Stop growing! Not yet, k?

It's been a crazy few weeks. Things will hopefully start to settle down soon.
Shaun and I are looking forward to his Spring Break. We are going to CA to check out the area of a potential job offer after Shaun's graduation. Very exciting to be getting done with school and starting the next chapter of our lives. He received the Academic Excellence award last week. Told you he's a smartie!! Way to go, Shaun! Proud of you!
While we are gone to CA, the kids are staying with their grandparents. They are getting excited for that, too. It's always nice to have something to look forward to! Although, they will probably grow a foot while we are gone! Oh well! Aren't they so stinking cute? Gotta love them!!

My Crazy Life

2009-02-18T19:39:00.004-07:00

So, it's been awhile since I've updated this thing! Life has been crazy, frustrating, wonderful and wild in the past few weeks!
Since Shaun will be graduating this May,we have decided to get the whole family into the doctor for checkups. (Shaun is still threatening to fail a class and continue the torture of school..yeah right..as if Shaun knows how to get anything other than straight A's!! :0) He's even getting an award on Friday, although it isn't official, so I'll post more on that later. ) Anyway, back to the doctor thing. I went in for a small lump on my neck that I had been told was a calcium deposit, but it was growing. They referred me to an Ear, Nose, And Throat doctor for a consultation. Turns out it is a cyst. He had me come back to take it out, and back again to get the stitches out today. So, that was four appointments for one thing. Then, Shaun went for a checkup and was referred to another doctor also...that's another two appointments. Then Tayson's turn. He scared us with a diagnosis of Scoliosis, which turned out to be nothing on the x-ray. Thanks for the heart attack, doc!! He also has to go to the eye doctor tomorrow. One more appointment. Turns out he's going to follow in my footsteps and need glasses so young! I guess I should have planned on that one happening! Good thing that he's the cutest kid ever, and even more so with glasses. We'll have pics soon with his exam tomorrow and hopefully getting the glasses ordered too. We do get to "kill two birds with one stone" tomorrow, cuz I'm getting my eyes checked out too. So that's seven appointments, and one on the way tomorrow and then another on Tuesday, since Shaun needs new glasses too. So many doctor appointments, so little time. Can you say, "When it rains, it pours"?

Not to mention that Haylie has now reached the "terrible two's" and I can't stand to take her anywhere! So, I've had to get babysitters every time I go to the doctors. Thanks to everybody who has helped out with watching her! She has also reached a milestone....No More Binky! I know! I know! She is WAY too old to have one, and she only had it during nap time and bedtime, but we finally threw them away. She got to go to the store to pick out a toy as a reward. She picked out a little sea horse that lights up and plays music (much like a glowworm). She absolutely loved it at the store. Then I bring her home, and put her to bed. A fit follows..."I hate that horse! Get it out of my room! I want my BINKY!!" Lovely. Just lovely. I didn't give in. I took her sea horse out and shut the door without giving her the binky! She fell right asleep. When she woke up she spent hours loving her sea horse and telling me how much she loved it. But, when bedtime rolled around she told her daddy that the horse stays downstairs. Apparently, it will NOT replace the binky as her bedtime/nap time comfort. Oh..silly, strong-willed little girl. LOVE HER!!!

On another note...Valentine's Day was wonderful! Shaun let me sleep in, made breakfast for me and had the table all set nice with flowers, chocolates and a card in the middle. So sweet! Cupid then knocked on the door and ran away (since he is naked) and brought the kids a Valentine's treat and stuffed animal. Gotta love that Cupid! Then we dropped off the kids at my parents and went to Iggy's for lunch. Yummy! Then we came home and relaxed the rest of the night. All in all it was a very nice Valentine's day.

So, that's what has been happening in the Copeland family. A little chaotic, but we are loving (or at least trying to) every minute of it. It is definitely worth the crazy's to be a part of this wonderful family. My favorite moment today? Giving hugs, kisses and snuggles as I put my kids to bed. Knowing that they are taken care of, happy and loved. Favorite moment today to come? Hugs, kisses and snuggles as I end the day with my hubby. That's all that matters.

My Poor Tayson!

2009-01-27T10:55:00.003-07:00

Yesterday, Tayson had to have his two top canine teeth pulled. His new adult teeth are on their way in, just a bit sideways, since there is no room for them, so the dentist said to pull the canines in hope of straightening out his adult teeth. Poor kid! He took it like a champ and didn't even flinch once! The "laughing gas" kind of knocked him for a loop though. He was a bit tired, loopy, and I think a little traumatized! He stayed home from school, ate ice cream, had Grandpa Dodge's homemade chicken noodle soup and was pampered a bit! He's such a good kid, even if he was a bit pitiful yesterday! We already know he's going to have to get the bottom teeth pulled too in a few months! He said he would be OK to do it...as long as Grandpa can make him some chicken noodle soup again! What a cutie! AND....the tooth fairy almost forgot to come! I was getting a bit worried that Tayson would be disappointed when his teeth were still under his pillow and there wasn't any money, but then she finally got here about 5:30 am! Good thing! That was a close one!!! :0) So now today at school Tayson's class will sing to him, and put his name on the tooth board! Very exciting stuff...at least to a seven year old! Go Tays! You're a champ!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SHAUN!!!

2009-01-23T11:55:00.004-07:00

Oh my! My hubby just turned 29 years old! He says he is not celebrating because he is sooo old! Too bad! We are celebrating!! This morning the kids woke him up by jumping on the bed, singing "Happy Birthday!" and giving him homemade cards. Too cute! They love their Daddy! He then opened his gift (the movie 'No Country For Old Men", some wine, nuts, candy bar, and my personal favorite...two huge pickles like the ones you used to get at the movies!). Tonight we are going to go to a movie, dinner and out with friends! Should be a good time!

I've been just busting with pride over this man of mine lately! This is his last semester of college. He is nominated for "Outstanding Senior". He has awesome grades, a pending job offer, and every opportunity open to him! Not to mention a wonderful, beautiful wife and two precious kids who adore him! ;0) He is so good to us and excels in everything that he does! I'm so lucky to have him as my partner in crime...oh, I mean partner in life! I love him tons and wish him a happy happy birthday and year to come! Love you, Babe!!

On another birthday note, Shaun's parents bought us tickets to see the ventriloquist, Jeff Dunham, for our birthdays. We went through the rain and fog down to SLC to see him last night! Very funny! Very entertaining! Thanks for the tickets, guys! It was great! If you have never heard of him or seen his stuff, check it out! I still can't decide who my favorite is, Peanut, or Achmed The Dead Terrorist!

Here is a pic of Achmed.

Here is Jeff Dunham with Peanut (the purple puppet in the middle), Walter (left) and Jose Jalapeno On a Stick (right).

The show was a blast! I had a great time...that is until the drive home through the canyon that was sooo foggy! That part was a little scary! But even with the fog, it was a great night! Did I mention FUNNY!!! A way fun way to celebrate our birthdays this year!

Oh, and one more thing....HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SHAUN! YOU OLD MAN YOU! YOU STILL GOT IT! LOVE YOU!

A Few More Pics, And A Happy Birthday To ME!!!

2009-01-14T14:15:00.004-07:00

Here is Tayson on his birthday. Haylie was trying to open his presents while he wasn't looking! Typical little sister!!

Here are the fish that Tayson picked out for his birthday. He got five. Two have already died!!! Oh no! Hope we can get the ammonia levels correct, and SOON!

Here is Tayson and Shaun playing with his Gyroscope! Thanks Landon!!

Tayson had such a wonderful birthday and was so sad when it was over!! He's such a cute kid!

My birthday was on Sat, Jan. 10th! I'm sooooo old!! (Does 26 count as old?) Shaun let me sleep in. Haylie couldn't stand it! She kept sneaking into my room saying "This not working!!!" When I asked her what wasn't working she said, "Daddy!" I asked what she needed and she said, "Mommy!" Oh, how nice it is to be loved! ;0)

Then my parents watched the kids overnight and Shaun took me to dinner and then to see the movie Marley And Me. Very cute! I had a wonderful birthday too and was spoiled by everyone!!

Seven On Tayson's Seventh!!!

2009-01-09T09:10:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday, Tayson!!!

I can't believe that my little guy is seven years old today! It seems like just yesterday that we were bringing him home from the hospital in a snow storm and his daddy was driving about 10 miles per hour!! We sure love our Tayson!!

I thought that I would do a little birthday interview with Tayson so that everyone can get to know him a little bit better! He is constantly cracking us up with the big words he uses and his silly sense of humor! It sure would be dull in our family without him!!

Here is a picture of his "Crab Birthday Cake"!

The interview went as follows....

Seven Things That Tayson Loves...

My Grandparents
My Family
BB Guns
My Crab
Karate
Animals (deer, elk, cougars, etc.)
School

Seven Things That Tayson Hates...

Broccoli
Peas
When Haylie Pesters Me!!
Tornadoes (Where did he get this one????)
Chores
Making my Bed!
When I'm Sick!

Tayson's Seven Favorite Foods...
Doritos
Dominoes Pizza
McDonald's
Diet Coke
Quesadillas
Cheese
Cake

Tayson's Seven Favorite Movies...

Transformers
Iron Man
Kung Fu Panda
Karate Kid
Wall-e
Walking With Dinosaurs
Journey To The Center Of The Earth

Seven Things That Tayson Is Good At...

Drawing
Karate
Math
Reading
Making Paper Airplanes
Riding His Bike
Swimming

Seven Things That Tayson Wants To Do Before He Turns Eight...

Go Swimming In The Ocean
Fly a Kite
See Shamu
Go Camping
See a Deer
Hike in a Cave
Go to Bear Lake

So that is a little info about my seven year old, Tayson! He is such a joy and we are lucky to have him! Love you, Tayson! Happy Birthday! Here's hoping all your dreams come true!

He got some fun games from DeAnn and her family!!

Haylie gave him a gum ball machine!

Today, Grandma Dodge, Haylie and I get to go have lunch at school with Tayson. Then after school it's off to the Fun Park for dinner and playing! Then we are going to Petsmart to buy some new fish. Then it's home for cake and ice cream and present time with the Grandparents! Happy Birthday, Tayson! Love you!!!

Early "Crab" Special!!

2009-01-02T14:05:00.003-07:00

Oh dear! Shaun and I are not experts in the planning department! Tayson's 7th birthday is on January 9th.

On New Year's Eve, Shaun's mom, Sharon, came and watched the kids while we went to dinner and shopping for Tayson's present. (Dinner was awesome, by the way!! New Year's Eve was calm this year! We just stayed home and watched Hancock..which is actually quite funny...and relaxed! We watched the ball drop from the comfort and warmth of our own bed!!)

Anyway, we had decided to get Tayson some kind of crab or frog or lizard for his birthday and headed to Petsmart after dinner. So, we saw a crab...liked it.....bought it and an aquarium for it. Then on the way home, we realized that the crab couldn't live in a little baggie for over a week! OH NO!!! So, then we thought that maybe we could just set up the aquarium and hide it until Tayson's birthday. Hmmmm....where oh where were we going to hide an aquarium in our little apartment? No where, that's where! So, we ended up letting Tayson have his birthday present early. A lot early! Oh well! He absolutely loves it and was jumping up and down in excitement! We hit the jackpot on this one!

Here is our newest family member. Tayson named him Mr. Crabs.

Tayson will get to go pick out some new fish friends for Mr. Crabs on his birthday! We also found some little plastic toy crabs to go on a birthday cake for him. Pictures to come of his REAL birthday! And I have to say, that we have all grown fond of our new little buddy....here's hoping he lives!!!!

A Very Merry Christmas!!

2009-01-02T12:51:00.005-07:00

So, it's January 2nd and I'm just getting around to writing about Christmas! We have been so busy with Shaun at home and cleaning and putting toys away! But, I think I have found a minute to think back on Christmas...

On Christmas Eve we went over to Grandma and Grandpa Dodge's. We exchanged gifts, since we were going to be at Shaun's parents on Christmas. First we opened our "Christmas Eve presents". We all got jammies. Haylie's were Tinkerbell and Tayson's were dinosaurs....both zip ups! Then Tayson opened his presents from Grandma and Grandpa....Kung Fu Panda, and Jenga! Haylie got Tinkerbell (the movie) and a Tinkerbell toy! How fun! Shaun and I got Wii games, movie tickets, money, Indiana Jones, and I got a necklace that I just love! So spoiled!! Then we played with cousins, watched The Grinch, had dinner, baths, drove around looking at Christmas lights, had desert and came home.

Once home we set out stockings, tracked where Santa was, put out cookies and milk and tucked the kids in bed.

The next morning we got up early and opened presents.

Shaun got me a new Tissot watch that I love, along with clothes, lotions, a purse, Mama Mia, a CD, and a candle warming lamp! I was very spoiled! Don't mind the photo with no makeup!!! Notice all of our new jammies!!

Shaun's big present was Guitar Hero for the Wii. He got the whole band bundle with the drums and microphone too! He also got a really nice hoodie and some other goodies.

Tayson got Electronic Battleship, Lego's, Iron Man, a remote control helicopter, clothes, etc.

Haylie got princess toys, Tinkerbell toys, a Cabbage Patch doll, a tent, clothes, etc.

Santa definitely spoiled them this year!!

After we got dressed we went over to Grandma and Grandpa Copeland. Shaun and I got camping equipment! A cooler, a stove, etc. The kids each got a sleeping bag and a flashlight and other goodies! They also got Wall-e the movie! Much loved!! We had a delicious dinner and then headed home to play with our toys!

My very favorite moment of the whole day was right after we had opened presents from Santa and I was getting breakfast ready. My kids were playing so nice in Haylie's new tent! Here are a few pics...

This is my very favorite pic of the whole day! How cute is my little Haylie???

It was such a nice Christmas! We weren't rushed, or hurried, but just able to spend time together! A wonderful Christmas that goes down in the books as the best!

Yellow Belt!!!

2008-12-22T18:55:00.005-07:00

Tonight Tayson promoted from a white belt to a yellow belt in Karate. Three words can describe the whole night: Proud! Proud! Proud!!!

Tayson with Mr. Smith, his Karate instructor.

Becoming one with his new yellow belt.

Receiving his new belt.

Go Tayson!!!

So Much to Blog, So Little Time!

2008-12-21T08:23:00.003-07:00

OK! Well, there is way too much that has happened in the last couple of weeks, and I just don't have time to do them all justice! So...here is a short list of the main events.

1. Shaun was flown out to CA for a job interview that looks promising. Now we are just waiting for a phone call, or an email, or something.

2. While Shaun was gone I stayed at Tiff' and Trevor's. I had such a fun time getting to know their wonderful boys a little better! Haylie has asked for them everyday since we have been home! We had a few adventures while we were there. Mainly getting lost while trying to pick up Trevor from the car accident he was in! No fun for anyone!! We really enjoyed staying there and have never felt more welcome! Thanks again guys, for putting up with us invading your home!!

3. While we were at Tiff's our grades were posted. Shaun and I both got straight A's this semester...admittedly a much bigger achievement for Shaun who took more classes and a LOT more difficult classes! Go Shaun! So proud of you! One more semester....

4. Tayson's school Christmas program was on Thursday. They sang songs and I just have to say that Tayson is such a cute kid! And very well behaved! It's so fun to see him at school with his friends and teacher! He's growing up way too fast!

These pics are from the morning of his Christmas program! Too cute!

5. Friday was Tayson's last day of school until the new year! He came home very wound up and very excited for christmas. I turned on some Christmas music and let them go nuts! Here are the moments I captured.

6. Our family Christmas party was Saturday night. We were a bit worried that we would make it down to my brother's in West Jordan for the party because of the weather. We made it, thanks to Shaun's careful driving and had a good time. I took my camera....but it never quite made it out of my purse. Two kids of my own, 4 nephews and everyone being wound up for Christmas made it impossible for picture taking. But, if you check out my cousin Tara's blog (in my blog list) there are some way cute pics of the party! Pizza, root beer floats, reindeer games, and laughter! Good times were had by all!

Well, that is my list for now. Tomorrow Tayson is promoting from a white belt to a yellow in karate. Hopefully my camera will find it's way out of my purse for that and I can post some pics of that! Now..for a nice day of relaxation after all this running around this past week and with next week sure to be a bit crazy with Christmas. Maybe we can get in some family movie time.....We'll see!

Finally OVer!

2008-12-08T22:17:00.003-07:00

Wow! Finals are over! (For me at least!) I took my last final of the semester this morning and now I feel light as a feather! What a relief! Now if only we can get Shaun through the rest of this week, we'll be doing great! He is so busy I doubt I'll even see him much! My other tid bit of news is that I'm postponing school next semester until we can figure out what we are doing. I found out that a lot of my credits won't transfer ( so what's the point???), and we will be crazy busy seeing that Spring Semester will be Shaun's last of undergraduate school, and we may possibly be job hunting, and I guess it all just sounds like a little too much. So for now, I'll concentrate on playing with my kiddos and being a supportive wife! And, by the way, I'm glad to do it!

So, now that school is over, what should I do? I guess it's time to get wrapping and organized for Christmas. Luckily all our shopping is done, so I won't have to wade through the crowds at the stores!

This weekend, Shaun will fly out for his job interview. We are making a little vacation of the whole thing. Tayson is spending the time with Grandma and Grandpa Dodge so that he will not have to miss school. Haylie and I will be going to stay with my sister and her little family, and only Shaun will be looking forward to the fun that comes with an interview! Best of luck, Babe! I know you'll do great! It should be a nice little break for us all. Hopefully the weather will cooperate!

Well, that's it for the latest on us. Catch up with you more later.....

Turkey Time!

2008-11-29T22:09:00.004-07:00

Thanksgiving! We decided to make our own little turkey and eat at home this year. We invited Shaun's parents to come enjoy the day with us! Everything went perfect...except for maybe the turkey getting done in 2 1/2 hours instead of the estimated 4...and the yams almost burning...and my most favorite, Shaun dumping the banana cream pie all over the floor! BUT, I am thankful that the pie didn't hit the floor until after we were done eating what we wanted and were putting it away! And I'm thankful for the fact that I saved the yams and they were still delicious! And I'm thankful for the "warm" on the oven dial that kept our turkey hot until we were ready for it!

But, I'm most thankful for my little family and the time we got to spend together. For my hubby that helped me cook it all and didn't make me touch the raw turkey (YUCK!), and who loves me for me! For Tayson who drew me the best turkey picture ever, and still cuddles even though he's "too big" for it! (Is 6 years old too big???) For Haylie who kept saying "I'm a turkey! Gobble! Gobble!" all day long, and her sweet, mischievous spirit! And last, but not least, all my extended family that I got to visit with this weekend! I would be lost without my family!

There are so many other things that I am thankful for in my life! There isn't time to list them all! So, I'll end by saying how incredibly blessed I am, and always will be while surrounded by those I love most!

A Week In a Blur!

2008-11-15T15:54:00.004-07:00

This week has gone by in a blur with so many things happening! My goal this week was to get a good head start on studying for finals. I didn't. At all. Oh well, I've still got awhile yet.

Tuesday we went to Karate. Tayson is doing great and learning tons.

Wednesday we had an issue with lying, which resulted in early bedtimes. I didn't mind at all! Shaun was up at school, so I had the evening to myself! HEAVEN!!!

Thursday we went the the Trans Siberian Orchestra concert! We picked up Tayson from school, sent Haylie with Grandma Dodge and drove down to Layton where we met Shaun's family for a yummy dinner at Famous Dave's. Tayson was a bit wound up and excited about the concert, so needless to say, we weren't on our best "restaurant" behavior, but oh well! Then we went and enjoyed the music! Such fun! I have three of their songs on my playlist, so if you've never heard their stuff, make sure to check it out! They are awesome! Then came the long drive home. By the time we wound our way through traffic and found the freeway again, Tayson was sound asleep!

Friday started good and ended even better. I got a phone call from Tayson's school saying that he was a "paw print" winner! Yes! That means he was on his best behaviour. That's always good news to a mom! Then we got Chinese food for dinner - our treat to ourselves after a crazy week! Then came the phone call....Shaun is being flown out for a job interview! Wow! His hard work is finally starting to pay off! Way to go, Babe! I'm proud of you! We still don't know where we will end up or what we will be doing, but we are definitely excited for a new chapter in life!

So...that's our week in a blur! Maybe things will settle down soon....but maybe not! :0)

The End Is In Sight!!!

2008-11-10T16:05:00.002-07:00

Today is a happy day! I finished reading the last chapter of my Psychology book, did the last homework assignment and now I just have to study for the final....which is 3 weeks away! Yea! I only have one more section to read in my US Institutions class, one more assignment and the final! I CAN DO IT!

Christmas shopping for the kids...DONE! Well, except for stocking stuffers, but that's easy! Shaun's Christmas is almost all taken care of too! Just the little things now.

This Thursday we get to take Tayson to the Trans Siberian Orchestra concert! It is our little family Christmas tradition and we were able to take Tayson last year too! He absolutely loved it! If you haven't ever heard their stuff, you need to check it out! I'm a bit worried that Tays will be too tired for school the next morning, but there is no way we were going to miss this! Why oh why is the concert not on a Friday?

We only wish that Haylie was old enough to take with us. However, she is staying the night at Grandma and Grandpa Dodge's and is sooooo excited! She usually goes with Tayson, so she will have a blast having Grandma and Grandpa all to herself! The spoiled little thing! It should be a fun night for all of us!

It has rained all day today! I love the rain! I keep trying to convince Shaun to get a job in Seattle, so that I can have rain all the time, but I guess we have to go where the jobs are, huh? Speaking of which, Shaun had two interviews this last Friday. It still seems so weird to me that we are getting that close to graduation! So proud of my smart hubby! On that note, this blog entry has made a full circle....The End IS In Sight!!! Woohoo!!

Happy Birthday, Dad!

2008-11-06T12:46:00.001-07:00

Today, November 6, is my dad's birthday. What an amazing man! At first I was going to write 55 (his age) things about him, but that would be the LONGEST BLOG EVER! :0) So, instead I've decided to write down a few things that I remember, treasure and cherish about my dad.

One of my most favorite things that I remember from when I was a little girl is that some nights my dad would come home from work with a little brown paper bag. He would put it on top of the fridge and we weren't allowed to peek inside until after dinner. It always had my very favorite thing in it....CANDY! I would watch out the window, waiting for dad to come home and to see if he had a bag in hand! What a cute, simple way to say how much he cared!

I remember going to work with my dad. We got to get a HUGE soda out of the machine. These were not the little cans we have now, but the big glass bottles! At least they were big in my eyes. I would sit on his work table, and Dad would put me to work sorting buttons, nails, money and all sorts of odds and ends. I always loved the smell of his shop! Now Tayson gets to go to work with Grandpa and do the same things! What lucky kids!

On Sunday's sometimes we would go for a drive up the mountains. When it was hot, this was the only way they could survive me. My dad would whistle, I would sing, and life was grand!!

Now my little Tayson has this incredible bond with Grandpa. No one can deny it, understand it or touch it. Nothing compares. They hike up Green Canyon to the cave, go fishing at First Dam, shoot BB guns, cuddle in front of the fireplace and just hang out. Tayson would be lost without him.

He calls me Care Bear. No one else does. It's just for him.

These are only a few of the things that I love about my dad! There just isn't room or time to write them all down, but I just wanted to give a little tribute to him, say HAPPY BIRTHDAY, and I love you....

Go Obama!

2008-11-05T21:13:00.005-07:00

GO OBAMA! We got to watch election night and it was a very moving, motivating and exciting night. I'm proud that our country has come so far. Now hopefully President Elect Obama can take us a bit further in the coming years...I'm sure he will. I think that he's the right man for the job and it will be a nice change for the White House and our country! Onward and Upward!

P.S. I thought of you last night, Grandma Wendel! I knew you'd be happy!

Halloween!

2008-11-03T11:33:00.003-07:00

Have you ever seen a more cute Snow White or a more handsome Indiana Jones? I haven't! My favorite is the sucker sticks hanging out of their mouths! We couldn't keep them away from their candy this year!!

Halloween was a busy crazy day for us! We went to Tayson's school and watched the Halloween Costume Parade. Then we came home, shoveled down some dinner and were off for a night of trick or treating! The kids didn't get a ton of candy. I think they were too worn out to go for very long, but they had a good time. The kids even got to spend the night at Grandma and Grandpa's. Lucky things! They are spoiled rotten! Shaun and I went out, didn't get home until 4 am and then slept in till 11. It was so nice to sleep in! What a fun Halloween for everyone!

Sorry that this update is so short. I've got two tests this week to study for, so it's going to be a crazy one! Later....

ABC Tag

2008-10-30T14:27:00.004-06:00

So I saw this cute ABC tag on my friend Molly's blog and thought it would be fun to put in mine...

A- Attached or Single? Awesomely attached!
B- Best Friend? Shaun is my very best friend! There are those of you that are close behind him though! You know who you are...
C- Cake or Pie? Cheesecake. Amy's Pumpkin Cheesecake to be exact.
D- Day of Choice? Lazy Saturday mornings and fun Saturday date nights!
E- Essential Item? Suckers in my purse.
F- Favorite Color? Warm colors for decorating. Red's and navy blue's to wear.
G- Gummy Bears or Worms? BOTH
H- Hometown? Logan, UT
I-Indulgence(s)? Hot bubble baths and a good book!
J- January or July? Both! Three of our 4 birthdays are in January, with Haylie being the lone duck in July.
K- Kids? yep. Tayson-almost 7 and Haylie -2
L- Life is incomplete without? My little family! Movies!
M- Marriage Date? May, 10th, 2002
N- Number of Siblings? 1 bother, 1 sister
O- Oranges or Apples? Oranges
P- Phobias or Fears? Being lonely, other peoples kids with germs! (I know...I USED to do daycare! Maybe that's why I hate sticky fingers so much!!)
Q- Quotes? Hmmm...I don't know. I should find one!
R- Reason to Smile? Holidays are approaching!
S- Season? FALL!
T- Tag 3 People? Kim, Lindy, Mel
U- Unknown Fact?
V- Very Favorite Store? Kohl's. And Scentinal Candle.
W- Worst Habit? Nail biting.
X- X-Ray or Ultrasound? Hmmm..Really? That's all they could come up with for "X"? Well, neither for me, thanks.
Y- Your Favorite Food? Italian, Chinese.
Z- Zodiac? Capricorn

Well, there's my ABC post.

Hiya Stranger!

2008-10-15T19:30:00.002-06:00

Well...hello there! It's been forever since I posted anything, so I decided I had better catch up! Not too much is happening here at the Copeland house. Shaun and I are both busy studying for midterms. It is "Fall Break" on Friday, and we both have midterms! Not much of a break if you ask me! Oh well...

Tayson had his first parent teacher conference of the year on Monday. He is doing great! He has lots of friends, he listens, and does great work! He's a smarty and we are very proud of him. His teacher seems really nice too, so that's always good! He had pajama day on Tuesday and since all of his pajamas are either too short or WAY too big, he got new "publicly acceptable" jammies. Very cute and comfy! Now he wants to wear them all day every day! Me too, kid! Me too! Last weekend we went Halloween costume shopping and Tayson in going to be Indiana Jones. Now to find a shirt that works.... Tayson is still loving Karate and getting better every time he goes! It's fun to go and watch him! The first thing I hear when he jumps in the car after school is, "Am I going to Karate today? Please? " Poor kid...it's only twice a week!

Haylie is just as cute as ever. She just decided to watch Snow White last week and loves it! So...obviously she is going to be Snow White for Halloween! I think she will actually be old enough this year to understand what's going on with the whole trick-or-treating thing. It will be fun to watch her! She loves trying to pick up our pumpkins and keeps telling me they are "too heavy!!" Very cute.

Shaun had an interview the other day for a real-live-after-graduation job! It's crazy to think he is that close to being done! We have no idea where we will end up, but we are all looking forward to a change! He is such a smarty pants too...must have passed that on to Tayson! No really, he is an exceptional student and has supported his family through it all too! We are very proud of him!

I'm still liking school. It's a bit overwhelming at times to juggle it all, but we just paste on a smile and truck on through it! The house is a bit neglected, but it hasn't thrown us out yet! And we all have clean underwear...good to know, huh? :0)

Well, that's all that's new with us. I'll post more when I've got something new to say...

Quirks

2008-10-07T16:27:00.003-06:00

So...Molly tagged me. The rules are: list six quirks about yourself and then tag six people. Then leave them a message on their blog (if they have one, or email them) letting them know they have been tagged. Here goes:

1. Hmmm...I'm a bit of a planner. This can be a good or bad thing depending on the day and the person you talk to.

2. I am very dependable. I will do what I say I will, when I say I'll do it. I like this about myself and wish more people were dependable too!!

3. Wow...this is hard..I've only done two and I'm drawing a blank. Oh..I'm a nurturer. I like to take care of people. If someone is sick or sad I like to help out.

4. I used to love the winter, but ever since Tayson has gone to school and I HAVE to drive somewhere every day, I've began to hate the snow. Fall is my favorite. A little chilly, beautiful colors and dry, or at least just wet, roads.

5. I like things neat and tidy. At least where other people can see them. The closets? Disasters!!

6. I'm childlike in my beliefs. I still want to believe in Santa, the Tooth fairy, and Cupid. What fun is life without a little magic?

Well, now. Let's see. Who should I tag? Melanie, Lindy, Kristin, Kim, Mom, Mara, and anyone else who would like to share!!

YES!!!!

2008-10-02T09:43:00.002-06:00

Alright! I am good! I got 98% on my test this morning! I'm a little mad...I would have had 100%, but noooooo, I just had to change that one answer! Next time....no changing answers! Party time for me!!! Or..maybe it's just time to forget about school work for a day and make my house livable again...and do laundry..clean clothes would be nice! Thanks for all your good thoughts for me today!

Anxiety

2008-10-01T21:25:00.002-06:00

Hmmm...a little test anxiety....

I have my very first test of my college career tomorrow. I'm a bit nervous! I never once studied for anything in high school, so seven years later, this is a bit of a shock to my system. I've studied up a storm and my head is about to explode! Hopefully it will pay off. I'll find out tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Karate Kid!

2008-09-30T19:48:00.004-06:00

Tayson is the BEST Karate Kid I've ever seen! We signed him up to take Karate last week and today was his very first day! He loved it! They did kicks all class (for a fundraiser) and I bet he won't be able to walk tomorrow! I know I wouldn't! Everyone was really friendly and he left just as excited as he went! I think it will be good for him to have something that he loves. And he looks so grown up in his Gi (uniform)! I'm awfully proud of his focus, dedication and perseverance! He never gave up, even when I know he must have wanted to collapse! I think he's going to love it! Watch out for Ninja Tayson!!!

:0) All Smileys! :0)

2008-09-27T22:38:00.003-06:00

Tayson did it! Every day at school Tayson fills out his Reflection Log. He gets to color in a smiley, straight, or frowny face depending on his behavior. He's been working so hard to get all smileys and we told him he could go to the Fun Park when he did. The week before last was soooo close. Only one straight face, (and I think his teacher was being a bit strict on that one) so we took him to McDonald's, but not the Fun Park. Last week he did it! He has been working hard and trying to do his very best, so we were very excited for him! Today we took him to the Fun Park and he had a blast! We played on the soft play, played games, ate pizza, had root beer and got prizes for the tickets we won! What a fun day! He did get quite a nasty cut on his knee...he doesn't know how, he was too busy playing....but if you don't have war wounds to show for a good day what do you have?!?

So..got a new template for my blog. Like it? Well, it's way late for me....off to bed...

A New Throne!

2008-09-25T16:21:00.004-06:00

Well, yesterday was an adventure! As the saying goes, " The shit hit the fan!" Literally. Not only the fan, the floor, tub, sink, walls, towels, and any other surface imaginable! And it was my fault! An accident, but a very bad one! Earlier in the day, a pill bottle got flushed down the toilet. By me. Yep. Me. I figured we'd have problems right then, but everything seemed to be flushing smoothly. Then. It. Didn't. And we don't have a plunger. So, I left the kids with Mara, ran to Walmart, got yelled at for entering through the tire and lube entrance, made a smart alec remark back, grabbed a plunger and sped on home. Then. It. Didn't. Work. ARG! We called housing, (poor housing!) and they came and worked on it for a couple of hours. Nothing was working. He left and said he'd see me in the morning. Now, during this whole dramatic event, my long time friend, Brent called to catch up. What a great night to call! We hadn't talked in over a year and he got to hear about my overflowing, clogged toilet! Bet it will be awhile before he calls back! :0) So, anyway, after housing left, I walked upstairs and into the bathroom. My eyes bugged out and I walked back out. It was awful! How in the #@*! did it get in my tub!!! GROSS! Well, I got it cleaned up and went to bed. They came this morning with a spanking new, CLEAN toilet! And it's working and all cleaned up! That's the end of my dramatic event. Now...what will be the next?

Hmmm...What To Say...What To Say...

2008-09-24T14:27:00.003-06:00

Hmmmm...what to say...what to say....

Not much is happening here at the Copeland's. Just school, homework, tests, cleaning, laundry and walks. Just more of the same old stuff. We are doing good. We are happy to be doing the same old stuff. This weekend we get to go to Owen's baby blessing (my new little nephew). I've only seen him once in the hospital, so it will be nice to see him again. I'm not too excited to deal with my kids...and the combination of church and cousins! Who could stay quiet when there are cousins to play with. Guess I'll try to think of some fun, quiet toys to bring. Haylie got a new dress, since hers are all summer dresses and it is definitely turning to fall! It's way cute....now to remember my camera to capture the cute kids! Oh...that reminds me...Tayson's picture day is tomorrow! I almost forgot! Guess I've got to figure out what he's going to wear! Oh..I'm looking forward to date night. Grandma Copeland has said that she will watch the kids on Friday night, so Shaun and I can go to dinner or a movie or something! Should be fun. Then on Saturday we are taking Tayson to a Karate lesson. If he likes it, we will sign him up. He's been looking forward to that for awhile now! I bet he'll look so cute in the little uniforms! Oops...handsome, I mean. More later....

Hiking, Hands, and Cars, Oh My!!

2008-09-23T13:53:00.003-06:00

On Sunday we went out to my parents for dinner. Then Tayson decided that he needed to show us the cave in Green Canyon that he and Grandpa go to. So..we stopped at home, got some shoes and headed on up. I didn't have my camera, so we'll have to go again to get pics. Tayson is such a little hiker! I kept yelling for him to be careful and Grandpa kept telling me to leave him alone. It's hard to remember just how grown up and independent he is! Tayson loves to go up in the mountains and hike. Guess we'll have to get a few more hikes in while the weather is nice. We ended up running into some of my parents neighbors while hiking and the two little kids just love my mom and had to hold her hands. Poor little Haylie was dying of jealousy and poor Grandma got to hold three little hands....and hearts, I'm sure. When we got back home, Grandma and Grandpa were dropping us off and Haylie just couldn't leave. She climbed back into the front seat and buckled herself in..all ready to go home with Grandma and Grandpa. When I finally got her unbuckled she scooted over to the driver side of the car and played with lights, turn signals, keys, steering wheel, and all sorts of knobs! We finally got her out, and in the house, but I'm sure the car will never be the same!

Today

2008-09-17T19:03:00.002-06:00

Ever felt like this? Yeah, me too. TODAY.

Good Day!

2008-09-11T17:03:00.003-06:00

Today has been a good day! Nothing special has happened. I was just able to accomplish a lot! That's always a good feeling! Haylie and I dropped off our boys at there respective schools, went grocery shopping, said hello to Mara and Landon and then came home for a nap. At least Haylie got a nap. Mom got homework. I got lots done, and I feel ready for my quiz tomorrow in one class. The other class...well, I have another chat tonight. Seeing how "great" the last one went, we'll see if I actually enter the chat, or just read it. I'm going to babysit Landon tonight. Or sit on their couch, rather, since he'll be in bed! It's so good to have someone that I completely trust to trade babysitting with! And I just love Landon, so it's fun for me too! I'm planning on keeping an eye on the chat and doing some more reading for my Psychology class. Should be good. It's nice to end the day feeling like what you needed to do has been done! Then you know it's a good day!!

An Outing Turns Into An Adventure!!

2008-09-10T16:01:00.003-06:00

This morning, my good friend, Mara, her adorable little boy, Landon and Haylie and I decided to go on an outing! Nothing too exciting...just a bus ride to the campus book store. The bus stop is right by our mailbox and every time Haylie sees a bus she says, "Haylie go bus!", so I thought she would enjoy it. The outing was going great! We caught the bus, rode it without any hiccups to campus. We went to the book store, let Landon and Haylie pick out a toy and some skittles, waved to Liza and decided to catch the bus home and get some lunch. So..we walked to the bus stop, waited, and got on a bus. No worries...everything was under control. Then...

The bus passed our stop! Oh no! We were on the CITY bus, not the campus bus! Mara and I sat and stared at each other, mouths open, trying to figure out what to do and finally decided that we we just going to have to get off , rather than end up in no-man's-land, and walk the couple of miles back home. Hopefully the two toddler's legs would make it!

Thanks to our sugar rush from the skittles the mommies and babies are home safe! I still can't believe Landon and Haylie walked the whole way! Such little troopers! We had a blast just laughing and walking...and walking...and walking! Needless to say, we will never make that mistake again!!

And that, my friends, is how a simple little outing becomes an adventure!!!

"No Homework!"

2008-09-09T20:52:00.002-06:00

So it's been awhile since I've updated, but life drones on in the same old day in and day out routines as always. We are busy with school!! Busy with kids!!! Busy with life! And loving it! I am no longer wishing away my days, but wishing for more hours in a day! What a change from the girl I was a few months ago! I'm enjoying feeling my brain expand...sometimes hurting it is expanding so much, but enjoying it none the less. I'm definitely out of my comfort zone, but it's getting a little cozier!

Haylie, I believe, is missing me a bit. She is really good to let me study for a bit and then she comes up to me, closes my book and says, "No homework, Mommy! Play with Haylie!" How can I resist that? She lets me know when my time is up and I'm usually grateful for the playtime with my bugs!

Tayson told me today that he liked Kindergarten better than first grade, because there was more time to play outside. I didn't have the heart to tell him that he had a LONG way to go! He'll adjust! He's doing very well on his homework and the tidbits forgotten over the summer have seemed to come back! He's my smartypants!!

Shaun has been amazing! Helping with kids, housework, homework and even grabbing takeout for dinner tonight, since I had just about had it. I was too tired to want to cook and clean up! What a sweetie! I'd be lost without him!

So...I'm loving my busy, hectic life and now I'm just trying to remember that sometimes it's time for "No Homework!"

Mamma Mia!

2008-09-04T11:27:00.002-06:00

I went out with Liza to see Mamma Mia! last night. It was so much fun! What a good movie and what great company! We were, however, missing our friend, DeAnn...the third in our trio! I loved the show and will definitely see it again! It was nice to get out!

School is going good. We have gotten into our schedule and I'm not stressed out...just enjoying the learning experience. I like going to school now, when I'm a little bit older. I have noticed myself thinking of things in an entirely different way than I would have if I had gone to college straight out of high school. I think I will do much better in school now. I guess things really do turn out how they should.

Haylie has been showing her age and throwing tantrums lately. Her new word is "NO!" She is also a sweet girl when she wants to be and has really started showing her compassionate side. I love to watch her grow and learn! We have been working on singing her ABC's, which I'm proud to say she is quite good at! What a cutie!

Tayson is enjoying first grade. He doesn't seem so tired anymore when he comes home. It took him a bit, but I believe he is adjusting well.

Tayson and Haylie get to go spend the night at Grandma and Grandpa Dodge's house on Friday night. They are so excited to go play....so are mom and dad!!! We are so lucky to have grandparents close by on both sides that are willing to play! Don't know what we'd do without them!!

A Quickie

2008-08-28T15:17:00.003-06:00

So just a little short quick note for today's blog. We are good. We are adjusting to school. Working out the kinks and running a bit smoother. I even got 100% on my latest homework...
Haylie's word for the day is "NICE!". It's very cute. I gave her a sticker..she puts it on her shirt and says, "NICE!" as in cool! She's so cute.
Tayson is now doing his homework in the mornings before school since he is too exhausted to function in the afternoons. This seems to work out a lot better and eliminates a lot of fights and frustration.
A good friend is watching the kids tonight so Shaun and I can go out! Yea! A much needed break! It's her turn to go out next week! LOVE YOU!!
So that's my quickie for the day....

School Bells Are Ringing!

2008-08-27T14:54:00.005-06:00

So....Shaun and I started back to school on Monday. Whereas Shaun is used to school, it's been SEVEN...count them....SEVEN years for me. It is a bit overwhelming and due to some issues with one of my online classes I ended the first day in tears. The second and third day went better, and I'm even about a week ahead of where I need to be. Haylie seems to be adjusting well to not having my undivided attention. I know that I will get in all in balance soon. I have been told a lot recently that I am uptight. Now I'm wondering...is that a dig? One good friend gave me a mantra to say over and over all day to help me unwind....I'm working on it! It's a good one! :0)- Dinner, dishes, laundry and housework are already falling to the wayside, but we'll survive. We aren't living in a pigsty yet! Shaun has been awesome in helping with the kids so I can get a few things done without Haylie. Now we'll have to see what happens when we aren't in the FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL!! Yes, I know....repeat my mantra! Ready or not, here we go!!!

Big Dino's!

2008-08-24T11:54:00.003-06:00

So on Saturday, we decided that we weren't done with Summer quite yet! We just had to get in one last fun day, so we went to the Dinosaur Park in Ogden. Big Dino's everywhere! We took Tayson a few summers ago when I was pregnant with Haylie and he loved it! It was even more fun this time with Haylie along. We were afraid that she might get scared by how big they are and the sounds, but she had a blast! Every time we turned a corner and she saw another dinosaur she would yell (of course any of you who know my daughter know that she only has one volume level!), "BIG DINO"S!!" Very cute! We walked around outside, then went and got some lunch and headed back to see the inside stuff. Very cool! Then of course I had to hit Kid to Kid and Target. Such a fun last day of summer fun! School starts Monday for Shaun and I and I'm just not quite ready to get back down to business! Oh well....Let the fun begin!

Tayson for lunch!

First of the First!

2008-08-23T20:17:00.002-06:00

First Grade Here I Come!

Tayson started First Grade on Wed., Aug, 20th! He was so excited for school to start this year! We got ready, Tayson in his new school clothes (the backpack is a repeat of last year since it still looked bran new!) and headed out the door. Parents were invited to come for the first hour of school. So, Daddy stayed home with Haylie and I went with Tayson. We met his teacher, hung his backpack on his hook, found his cubby and mailbox, said hi to Grandpa Dodge's twin, Kevin, and even got a donut and Sunny D! Then we went back to class where he was supposed to color in his "Welcome To First Grade" coloring book. He got settled at a table and as I knelt down by him, he looks at me and says, "Get out of here, Mom! Love you!" Oh dear! If I weren't so ready for school to start it MIGHT have hurt my feelings! :0) As it was, I just said, "Love you too!" and skipped on home! FREEDOM!! OK, not completely since little sister, Haylie, was waiting at home, wondering where in the world her big brother had gone off to and wanting someone to play with, but freedom from fighting siblings! Yea!

It is so strange to have Tayson gone all day! I miss all the help he is to me and his company, but so far school is great! He loves his teacher, has friends in his class and even has TWO recesses where he is now allowed to play on ANY playground he wishes. Unlike Kindergarten where he could only play on one! He also thinks it is pretty cool to eat lunch at school with his friends! He reports the menu to us each day and so far has eaten everything on his plate each day.....or so he says!

Wow! First Grade! He sure is growing up fast!!!

Errands and School

2008-08-18T10:31:00.003-06:00

So...the latest with school. I have been awarded financial aid. I got a grant and a student loan. I am registered fine with one class and still waiting for the second to show up on my schedule. I think we are good to go. So now I have to figure out how to access my classes and how everything works. Adventures! Oh yes....and still get books......

Tayson starts school in two days! I can't wait! I get to go with him for an hour in the morning to meet his teacher, find his classroom, etc. It will be fun to get him back in a good schedule and entertained! He lost two teeth this past week and I'm sure the tooth fairy is broke now! Tayson is trying to save up money to buy a Wii game and gun. He already has $23 and Dad did say we would meet him partway, so he's getting there.

That's all that's new with us. Just waiting on school and running errands in the meantime. The car is going into the shop on Wed. and Thur. and then hopefully it will be good to go. Went grocery shopping, dropped off documents and applications, and gave they boys haircuts. Still have to clean, do more laundry, and get Tayson's school supplies ready. Crazy week, I tell ya!!

Back to School!

2008-08-14T20:49:00.002-06:00

Back to school...well.... hopefully! I have been accepted to USU, gone through the online new student orientation, talked to my advisor and decided what classes to take. Now we are waiting on financial aid. It's the story of my life...waiting on money! The fact that I applied 7 years ago as Carrie Dodge and I am now applying as Carrie Copeland seems to be confusing the crap out of them! Tomorrow I must go make an in person appearance and see if I can't get things going. I am a bit nervous about going back to school. It will be quite a juggling act to take care of kids, Tayson's homework, the house, laundry, dinner and all of those other little things that fall to me as the mom. Today, as I was on the phone with my advisor, discussing how many classes to take online, the kids were crying, screaming, fighting, and jumping off the bed. Very kindly my advisor advised me to take only two classes since it seemed that I already had my hands very full! I had to giggle and agree! I'm very antsy to get things going. Why couldn't I have had this brilliant idea to go to school about a month ago? Oh well, it will all work out, either this semester or next! Oh...I still have to buy books, too! So many things to do! So much excitement!

Tayson is starting school on Wednesday! I'm so excited! He definitely needs something productive to occupy his time rather than just pestering his little sister! The other night, driving home with Grandpa Dodge from visiting Tiff and Owen, Tayson was talking about going back to school and that he will miss his Kindergarten teacher since he is now in first grade. I told him that he'd have to give her hugs during recess. He then said, "I know! I'll give her a present because she liked teached us so good!" I had to giggle and say, "Oh yes! She teached you GOOD!" What a silly boy!

Welcome Baby Owen!

2008-08-13T21:28:00.005-06:00

**Beautiful Baby Owen**

** Grandma Dodge and Owen**

**Haylie, doing a little soul searching!**

**Big cousin, Tayson, has it all under control!**

**The Proud Mamma and Baby Owen**

On August 12, 2008 Owen was brought into my family by his beautiful mother, my sister, Tiffany! What a handsome little man he is! He was born at 7:11 pm and is just absolutely perfect! I just love newborn babies, especially ones as cute as Owen! Everything went well and baby and mommy are doing just great! Welcome, Owen! And a big congratulations to his mom and dad!

Owen has a big brother, Aiden. What a cutie! Tayson picked out some dino's and a coloring book and crayons for his "big brother present". Aiden was so excited! A dollar spent has never been more rewarding! He seems to love his little bro and I'm sure he can't wait till they are home from the hospital!

I was able to take my kids and ride down with my parents to see the new arrival. I didn't realize how much Haylie LOVES babies! She couldn't keep her eyes or hands off Owen! Tayson got to hold him too and I was so proud to see how gentle and caring he was with him! He sure lives up to his responsibilities as the oldest cousin; such a good kid!!

Welcome, Owen! We are so glad you joined the family and can't wait to get to know your little spirit! You are so special and sweet, not to mention adorable, cuddly, and perfectly lovable! We love you so much!!! Welcome to the family!

Wild in Wendover

2008-08-12T17:50:00.002-06:00

OK....so maybe not so "wild", but definitely FUN!!!

Saturday, Shaun and I went to Wendover with some friends. I have never been there, and although it is tiny, it is big on good times!

There isn't much to do there besides gamble and drink. I've never been a big gambler, but I was able to learn a little Poker and Black Jack. My big take was on the penny slots. I won $16!! Can you believe it?? I'm rich! :0) Alright, all joking aside, we had a lot of fun! We ate lunch, played, walked around, had dinner, and played some more. We didn't get to back to our room till about 3:00 am and it was hard to settle down and get to sleep. We left our room in a sleepy daze and headed straight for Starbucks! OH JOY! OH BLISS! Then we started for the long ride home, with a lot of pit stops. We finally got home and as we were turning the knob to get in I heard "Momma! Momma!" Oh, it's good to be "Momma" and have those little arms around me again!

Tayson was able to go to the Rodeo with his grandparents while we were gone. We were able to find him a cowboy hat after only one store! Grandpa even caught him a t-shirt. He had a blast and today while driving in the car, listening to a song about a rodeo, Tayson says, "Mom? When can I go to a rodeo again? I really miss it!". Too cute!

On another note, summer is coming to an end and we are trying to squish in all the fun things we still want to do. Today we went to one of my best friend's house for lunch. She has kids about the same age and they love to play together. Then we went to the "Fun Park" to play on there soft play, which is almost like a McDonald's Playland, but bigger. My other friend from high school was there with her kids! So cute! It was nice to catch up after such a long time! The kids had so much fun and wore themselves out! They even got to play a few arcades and win some prizes! Hopefully they are so tired that it will be an early night..........

Sore, Tired, Excited, Cowboy Hats and Stink Bugs!

2008-08-07T08:05:00.003-06:00

So...sore, tired and excited are the emotions of the day. Sore and tired because I've been good and actually gotten up at 5:00 am every morning this week to walk two miles. It makes for a long, sleepy day!

Excited for many reasons.

*One is that my workouts and diet are working....I'm getting smaller. I've lost 16 pounds this summer. It could have been more if I wouldn't have fallen off the wagon, but that's OK! I'll take what I can get!

*Two is that tonight I get to go shopping with one of my very favorite people for a new shirt. She is a dang hoot! I'm getting the shirt for Wendover...that's my third excitement.

*Three is that in two days I get to go play with my hubby and friends in Wendover. I've actually never been to Wendover. I find it funny that so many people have such drastic different opinions on the place! Some hate it, some love it! I guess I'll see soon enough for myself!

*Four is that when I go shopping tonight I'm going to get some stuff to do some red highlights in my hair. This makes me a bit more nervous than blond highlights, but what the heck...I'll live dangerously for a change! :0)

Today my goal is to find a cowboy hat for Tayson. My parents are taking him to a Rodeo on Friday and the other day Tayson worked up his cowboy accent and drawled, " Mom, I need a cowboy hat. Y'all can't go to a Rodaaaaaoooo without a cowboy hat!" So cute....so now I'm on a hunt for a hat. I'm hoping the dollar store will save me! And I'm hoping Tays has the time of his life at the Rodeo!

Last night, Wednesday, I went to my mom's to make a blanket. You see, I've been attached (more now as an adult than ever as a child) to my pink bunny blanket. It is now gray, holy and falling apart, and desperately needs to be retired to a closet! I recently bought some new bedding and some material that matches for a blanket. My mom and I had a REAL fun time trying to match corners and not look like fools in front of my dad who does upholstery for a living. The blanket is not perfect, and my good ole' dad had a few chuckles, but I just love it! THANK YOU, MOM! LOVE YOU!!!! It was so weird to go to my parents home without my kids. I don't think I've been there without them since they were born. I felt 15 again! It was nice to be able to chat with my parents and be able to relate to them on an adult level without being busy playing mom myself! They are wonderful people! Love you!

My little Haylie....oh..can you say "Terrible Two's"? OK..she's not too bad, just into everything. Just yesterday she pulled out all of her wet wipes one by one. Then she did a repeat performance on the new box of tissues. Then she dipped her play cup in the toilet and carried it around saying "I need a drink!" Eew! Eew! Eew! Then she gets my hairspray and silk therapy (expensive) and puts them in her hair. Where was I? you ask? Sleeping. I have to take a nap when she does since I'm getting up so early. This was all done in about 5 minutes time. And then, after we clean it up and have a little talk, she jumps in my lap, pets my check and gives me loves. What's a mommy to do? Cute little bug! Maybe a STINK BUG?????

Spirits Reunited

2008-08-05T07:50:00.004-06:00

So yesterday, Monday, was a wonderful day. My good friend, Mel, came to visit that I haven't seen for two years! She's never even seen Haylie. It was so good for her to come up and visit! I've forgotten how much I really miss her! Time went too fast and we need to get together again soon! She looks so good and happy! Yea!! Her girls are absolutely adorable and so sweet!

My son Tayson and her oldest daughter, Berk, were the best of friends until my family moved three years ago. I remember Tayson crying for Berk for a long time after we were here. Then just a couple of months ago I asked Tayson if he remembered Berk and he said no! It made me so sad! So yesterday I asked him again and he said "Didn't we go to McDonald's with her?" Yes! Yes, we did!

Tayson was so excited for them to come and visit and when they pulled up he ran outside to greet them. They gave him the cutest stuffed dinosaur that they had bought for his birthday about two years ago! I can't believe they still had it! Tayson absolutely loves it! As our littlest girls were a bit shy and working on warming up to everyone, Berk and Tayson just started where they left off! It was like they had never been apart! Spirits reunited! It was the cutest thing to watch! Tears were shed after goodbyes!

Tayson slept with his dinosaur that he has named Snuggles. He told me that if Berkeley couldn't stay to snuggle and play with that the dinosaur would do. Then his eyes got huge, a smile lit up his face and he said, "I know, Mom! Why don't they move into the empty apartment next to us? That would be so much fun!" I told him I think they were going to stay where they were and once again....absolute heartbreak! It amazes me that after two plus years of not seeing her that he can be so attatched! We'll have to get together soon!

These pics are from Halloween 4 years ago! Cute little things, huh?

Tag-You're-It

2008-08-04T06:41:00.002-06:00

So I've been tagged. Once you are tagged you must write ten random things about yourself. I thought is sounded like fun....maybe that's because I've been up since 5:00 am to get in my morning walk, and I'm still half asleep, but either way, here we go!

1. I love the fall. Crisp air and the colors! oh my!

2. I secretly watch "Saved by the Bell" after my morning walk and before the kids are up.

3. At the age of 25 I am just begining to figure out who I am, and what it means to be a well-rounded person.

4. I love puppy breath.

5. I have a thing for gummy bears that I am trying to get over!!

6. I enjoy cooking more than baking.

7. My toenails must always be painted.

8. I can not stand the heat. If you don't believe me just ask anyone who has EVER been around me during the summer! Sorry guys!

9. One of my biggest fears is being lonely.

10. My favorite thing to do at the end of the day is to read a good book while soaking in a hot bubble bath. Ahhhh....sweet luxury!!

Tag-You're-It!! Now it's your turn to post ten random things about yourself. Have fun!

Oh so TIRED!!!

2008-08-03T12:12:00.003-06:00

Well, my hubby and I went out last night....Here we are on the way out the door! We didn't get home until about 12:30 and we were too wound up to go to sleep till about 2:00 am....
Now it is noon and we are still in pj's and just starting to think about getting bathed and dressed! I love Lazy Sundays!!!

I'm looking forward to tomorrow. The plan is to have my friend come visit that I haven't seen for TWO YEARS! It will be so good to visit!

Guess I'm off to get dressed!!

Brand New Me

2008-08-02T20:07:00.000-06:00

Hello! I guess I am now a brand new "blogger"! We'll see how I like it.....

So today was my "sacred" beginning to the weekend! I love weekends and just live for them. We did absolutely nothing all morning...Wonderful! Although, Shaun and I did try Program 2 on our eliptical and saw stars for hours after. Whoever said exercise is fun is kidding themselves! Hopefully it will work though!

Tonight I get to go out with my hubby! My wonderful sister in law is coming over to sit with the kids...oh what would I do without her?!? ( Love you! ) I've actually been able to get out a little bit more lately...which has been sooo good. It has caused a bit of a mid life crisis, however. Yes, I know...I'm going to have a very short life if I'm having a mid life crisis at the age of 25!! I have decided that I need more in life and am now trying to get things together to get back in school! YEA!! I am so excited to have my life revolve around not only the needs of my two beautiful kids and hunky hubby, but MY needs as well! It will surely be a challenge to work it all out, but I'm hoping that I will be a better mother and more fulfilled. I do have to say that I'm a bit scared...as I always am to try something new, but I'm trying to be brave. I am running a bit late in applying for financial aid and registering for classes, since school starts in less than a month, so I may be out of luck, but I'm trying anyways. Hopefully I'll be able to take a couple of online classes this semester and actually go to class come Spring Semester. And may I say I am forever grateful to an ever supportive husband! He is in his Senior year of his Mechanical Engineering degree, and is still excited for me to go to college even if it puts more stress on him. Amazing man!

Oh yes! And I am also starting this new blog! Lots of new things in my life. Hope I can keep up with them all!