The Chapman Family

Something...

2010-04-02T11:51:00.003-06:00

I can't believe it has been so long since I posted. Not much going on, but work and family. Mark finally got a job in February and it is so much BETTER then Iron Mountain ever was. He doesn't love that he has to work, but he does it for his family. I am so in love with that man!!

Bexley is finishing up his 4th grade year. He is doing well and has a lot of friends. He likes football and playing games on the XBox. He has fun with Madison and trys to be a good helper.

Madison is almost done with preschool and loves it. She always says Hi to everyone and calls everyone by name. She is so ready for kindergarten this fall. She is very funny and independent. Both of my kids are amazing!!

I work lots at Denny's and decided that I need to cut back a little. So hopefully until school gets out for the kids I will only work a few days a week. I LOVE my customers!!

Love that Spring is here. Although we did have snow 2 days ago... Utah is what it is... and I love it!

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-04T13:01:00.003-07:00

We have so much to be thankful for!!! Things have been going well. Mark is still looking for work, but we are getting by with the things that we need. Christmas was AWESOME!!! Thanks to some amazing friends and family. We are loving the new place and spending lots of time together. I have a feeling 2010 is going to be our year!!

Taking the good with the bad...

2009-11-25T09:55:00.005-07:00

So this past month has been one big storm waiting to blow right down on us!! Last week we had some great news and some super crappy news.

Good... We are moving to a very much needed 3 bedroom apartment on Dec 4th. We are so excited! We haven't seen inside it yet, but we saw one of the 2 bedrooms and liked it lots. We will have amazing landlords and a lot of space to ourselves. Once we're in I'll post some pictures. Can not wait!!!

Bad... After almost 11 years of working for Iron Mountain, Mark was terminated last Thursday. Not expecting anything like that to happen. We will make it through this difficult time, but of course with the holidays fast approaching you just never know. I love mark and know that he will find something to do that will make him happy and help us with the things that we need.

All and all things are well. I am looking forward to the holiday time and remembering the important things in life...my family and my Faith.

Princess Snow White

2009-10-21T13:02:00.002-06:00

Fall and the talented 9 year old

2009-10-21T12:46:00.002-06:00

I encouraged Bexley to enter the Reflections contest at school in photography. The theme is "Beauty is..." so he went around the complex and took pictures of the trees. I think they all turned out very well. He has a great eye and loves playing with the camera. Usually to make a video. Hope he does well in the contest. Loving the fall leaves!!

Yummy...

2009-10-21T12:43:00.004-06:00

I love playing with playdough and am very proud of the cheeseburger and fries I made.

Who wouldn't want to munch on that cute girl ?!?!?

It is for always...

2009-10-06T01:08:00.002-06:00

Totally cool...

2009-09-28T12:18:00.007-06:00

So last week I was reading cjane's blog, like I always do, and she was talking about playing around on Rollip. It is so fun and addicting!! This is when Maddie was 6 days old.

Little Lauren

2009-09-28T11:46:00.004-06:00

We watched Lauren and Issac this weekend. I put piggy tails in her hair and had to take a few pictures. She is so sweet!

I was taking the picture and said smile and this is the face she made.

Love that little girl!!

500 Miles...

2009-09-17T14:10:00.003-06:00

I read last night that Mary Travers, from one of my favorite groups of all time, passed away on September 16, 2009. It is funny that just recently I started listening again to the greatest hits of Peter, Paul, and Mary with the kids. We actually listened quite a bit to it on our recent car trip to California. Everyday Madison wants to hear the song "500 Miles" because she knows the words and really likes it. It is one of the sweetest things I have ever heard. Madison has a great little voice and love that she isn't afraid to belt it out. Another reason why I love music like I do.

I want...

2009-09-11T14:50:00.004-06:00

LOVE this poster I found at Sparkle Power thru cjane's blog. I totally believe the statement mixtape=love. My lover has made some of the best mixes ever. Hopefully I can get this for my birthday next week.

P.S. I just bought it today and I can't wait for it to get here!!

1st Day of Preschool

2009-09-11T11:37:00.002-06:00

Madison has her own little locker...I think they are so cute!

A few weeks ago she informed me that I didn't need to go with her to school...Really?

Okay Mom, I'm ready!

So cute...checking the watch and telling me it was time.

I am so proud of Madison! She is growing into an amazing big girl. She is very independent. Preschool will be a great time to watch her grow. Have fun Maddie!!

Camping

2009-09-04T11:25:00.004-06:00

Cute Lauren getting ready to swim

Maddie stretching out on the beds

Snug as a bug in a rug!! Bexley staying warm...

Isaac making some S'mores

Cute Maddie...

B and Mom

My favorite tent buddy

Wow... She is PRETTY!!

Making steaks and potatoes...It was delicious!!

We had a great time last weekend in Coalville camping. It was a short trip, but we enjoyed the time together. S'mores were made. Games were played. I love my family!! Until next year...

Fourth grade...Sweet!

2009-08-27T18:11:00.002-06:00

One of my best friends

How did we get such cute kids? Well...

It is seriously impossible to wake this kid up. He is a night owl and LOVES to sleep in. This is how he looked when I went in to wake him on the 1st day of school. He has a great teacher this year and is really looking forward to being a 4th grader. Here's to another year!!

California pictures...

2009-08-27T18:01:00.004-06:00

My handsome Bex

Where are you B?

Bug eyed Maddie

Mark loving on Gavin...I love those boys!

The main reason we went to CA...Oh and to pick up Bex.
He is so stinkin cute and lovable. He just turned one on 8-22
and started walking a few days before we got there.

Maddie found a boyfriend while in California!!
It's alright with me as long as we get some free food.

Miss you...

2009-08-04T00:47:00.004-06:00

So our brave Bexley set out on an adventure today. All of my family lives in California (where I grew up). All summer Aunt Sarah (my little sis) has been asking Bex to come visit. So we set it up so that he could ride down with Uncle Adam (one of the brothers) after he finished at BYU. I dropped B off in Provo and won't see him until the 13th, when we drive down for a quick vacation. Seems silly to miss him already, but I do. He is an AMAZING boy and I LOVE him tons! Have fun Bexley...remember who you are!

Beautiful...

2009-07-29T11:20:00.003-06:00

I love music! Always and forever... It is so awesome to be married to an amazing music lover. One of the first things that drew Mark and I together was our love for Pink Floyd. Love that this morning M and I were texting lyrics back and forth. I am so in LOVE! "She stood in the doorway the ghost of a smile..."

My camera does what?!?!??!

2009-07-06T12:15:00.003-06:00

It has been well over a year since we got our camera and I read the instruction manual for the 1st time yesterday. Here is one cool feature I LOVE...black and white and sepia!!

The Fourth

2009-07-06T12:10:00.003-06:00

I always love to go see the fireworks in Salt Lake on the 3rd. They are so amazing!! I get choked up and think about the many freedoms I enjoy. Madison won't watch them because they are too loud so I had to get some pictures for her. I am truly blessed!!

21 Days...

2009-06-29T23:34:00.004-06:00

For 21 days I knew I was pregnant. 3 positive tests and no reason to doubt. We had been trying and really wanted to add another little Chapman to the mix. My body was changing and I loved it!

Last week my body changed again. Not in any way that a pregnant woman looks forward to. I started to bleed. At first it was light and it had happened before with the first. I went to bed hoping that all would be well in the morning. I hardly slept...

In the early morning I woke and it was worse. Painful. I sobbed. I called the Dr. and was able to get an appointment that morning. Mark and I went to confirm the fears. An almost empty uterus. The ultrasound showed 5 weeks of growth, but I was almost 11 weeks along.

I had miscarried.

How could I tell Bexley and Madison that their wait for a brother or sister would be a little longer. We had all been waiting and hoping for a long time. It wasn't our time, but the Lord's time.

Not in our control. Someone else knows better. I believe!! Faith has made all the difference. I know that we will be blessed with a little one soon. We needn't worry. It is hard now, but it gets better.

I want to share an amazing essay written by the AMAZING cjane. It has given much comfort and strength. The Hourglass Theory... Thanks for your thought!

All is well and I know that everyday will be a little better. Thank goodness for the gospel!

Happy Birthday Lover!!!

2009-06-24T11:03:00.002-06:00

My awesome Mark is a little older today. I am so in love with him. Thanks for all you do Mark and I hope that you have a great day!! We love you!

Madison turned 4!

2009-06-18T18:02:00.001-06:00

Can't believe our cute little chica is 4 now. I think she thinks she's 14, but we'll deal with that as it comes. She is one crazy girl and we LOVE her tons!

Surprise!!!

2009-06-08T13:16:00.003-06:00

I am so excited to share that we are EXPECTING!! Baby #3 will arrive in January! So stinkin' happy. I love my husband and my 2 beautiful kids. I know that we are very blessed and can't wait to experience motherhood again. Feeling good so far so I hope that keeps up. Life is GOOD!!

Hilarious!!!

2009-05-05T12:46:00.010-06:00

Probably my favorite kids show of all time. Check it out here...

I have also been laughing myself silly watching these Saturday Night Live sketches...
Please to enjoy here.

I also recommend checking out the Best of Amy Poehler and watch this and this. Also this is a great one!

Finally...another post...

2009-04-29T11:33:00.003-06:00

painted toes and sandals

relaxin' at the pool

spending time with my hubby

and my favorite summer activity...freezing my butt off while we camp

I can't wait for summer to get here!!!

A Ring and A Grasshopper

2009-03-24T10:43:00.002-06:00

So I think this picture is a little lame, but I wanted to post a picture of the AWESOME ring that Mark bought me for our anniversary/Valentine's Day. I LOVE IT!! I also bought Mark a new grasshopper for Valentine's Day. I posted about one we use to have. I love Mark!!!

A Niece, A Nephew, and A Blonde...

2009-03-24T10:26:00.003-06:00

Our newest niece, Lauren Ashley, was born on March 17th and weighed 10 lbs 2 oz! She is so beautiful...Congrats Dave and Darlene! Also showing off my blonde locks that I have had for a little while now.

My sister sent me some recent pics of my nephew Gavin and I couldn't resist making this collage and putting it up in the front room. He is so adorable!! I wish they weren't all the way in California...Love you guys!

Love...

2009-02-11T15:25:00.004-07:00

I love my husband A LOT!!! I can't believe another Valentine's Day is almost upon us. I remember the 1st V Day that I knew Mark...1998...I found a cool plastic giant grasshopper at the store and thought I'd give it to Mark with a note that said something about not wanting to BUG him, but maybe he'd be my Valentine. We had that grasshopper for a lot of years until one of Bexley's friends was scared of it and they thought they had better throw it outside in the bushes. Oh well, he was a good little grasshopper and we'll always have the memories. Happy Love Day!

WOW!! You're 9!!

2009-01-20T23:25:00.001-07:00

We are so lucky to have you in our family Bex!! You are an amazing little man and we LOVE you tons!! Happy Birthday! I hope it was a good one and starts off a fabulous year. Keep doing all that you do and continue becoming the young man that you are. Love you lots B!

Happy Family

2009-01-08T00:29:00.003-07:00

Nana and Papa love each other lots!

Cousins...Could they be any cuter?

I can't believe it will be 10 years in April!

Love these 2 tons!!

2009 is off to a great start...We had a very busy December with lots of family and friends. I am glad the Holidays are behind us and another year with endless possibilities lies ahead.

Here's to making it the best one yet!!!

Thank you Hello Kitty!!

2008-12-15T15:13:00.004-07:00

My sassy 3+ year old finally decided that Hello Kitty undies would be enough to give up diapers and take the Big Potty plunge. (no pun intended) She was willing last week to try the potty again and she hasn't looked back. Now she loves to proudly let everyone know she peed. We are so proud and relieved cuz diapers are not cheap. To think that she once was this small and helpless...

Love you Maddie! Thanks for being so awesome!

It's begining to look a little like Christmas...

2008-12-05T17:49:00.002-07:00

We got our tree up last weekend. I love that Christmas is on the way. Family traditions and lots of fun. Can't wait to spend time with the fam and enjoy the season.

Are you enjoying the season?

What are your traditions?

Tra la la, please!!!!

2008-12-01T00:21:00.004-07:00

Any time we sit down to the computer, Madison asks to hear this... Enjoy!

I've been to the Dark Side of the Moon...

2008-11-22T10:58:00.004-07:00

Last night, Mark and I, finally went on a much needed date. We invited our fabulous friends, Erin and Ryan, and tripped out at 2 Laser Pink Floyd shows. They were awesome!! So glad for the time away from it all.

A fun story about going to the Planetarium for Laser Floyd...

June 1998...My good, good friend Mark and I decided to make a trip up to SLC to catch the midnight showing of Laser Floyd. We had been hanging out for the last 6 months as the "goodest" of friends. Later I will call this our 1st official date.

Anyhow, we got to Salt Lake early and stopped by Mark's folks house. First meeting. I was a lot nervous. Bill and Judy...Mom was already in bed and Dad was happy to keep us company and chat awhile. Even offered to let us watch some of the National Geographic videos. He was awesome! But we had to head out to catch the show.

Waiting in line... couldn't wait to get into the theater with Mark. Man I loved him! Once inside we chose our seats and settled in. After about a minute, I proceeded to place my hand on Mark's and do the interlocking finger hand hold. This was SERIOUS!

Well the rest they say is history... We did have our 1st kiss that night, but that'll be another story.

Lyrics...

2008-11-20T19:31:00.002-07:00

I love music. Many kinds. I am not usually picky. I usually say that I don't like country music, but I really don't know it so I choose something else. Nothing against it.

Today I realized there are a ton of lyrics from songs that move me. In all directions.

Sad...Happy...Giddy...Interested...Contemplative...Sexy

Here are some that I thought of today...

"Walk with me now under the stars. It's a clear and easy pleasure. And be happy in my company, for I love you without measure." Nick Cave

"Time passes slowly, our hearts entwined. All of the dark times left behind." David Gilmour

"I don't believe in Beatles. I just believe in me. Yoko and me... and what we are." John Lennon

"Your eyes are like a diamond mine...deep and dark inside." Mark Sandman

"I hope that when you step out into the air your skin looks like oatmeal. And when you order a burger and fries it all tastes like glass and rocks." Mark Chapman

"You know that I care what happens to you and I know that you care for me too." Pink Floyd

That is all for now. But I think I will start posting lyrics on the side of my blog...Yes, that will do.

Family photos...

2008-11-05T20:59:00.003-07:00

Last Saturday we went to Wheeler Farm and had some pictures taken. Caroline Drake was our photographer. She did an awesome job and was great to work with. Check out some cute photos here. So excited to do Christmas cards this year...

Like black holes in the sky...

2008-11-01T10:25:00.007-06:00

First of all, this may seem silly, but I wanted to make note of the LOVE I have for David Gilmour (mostly of Pink Floyd fame) and the song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond". Of course, it should be noted that I do feel the kind of love that, come what may I will always love you for Mark. I could not be more in love with Mark at this very moment. Although when I get home from work and see that he has been playing and hanging out with our sweet Maddie and that he is excited to go today and take family pictures, I will love him a little more. It is amazing and always happens.

Okay, back to the other love...This morning as I drove to work I listened to the version of SOYCD from the Live at Gdansk album. It is a concert Gilmour did in 2006. I have loved Pink Floyd and especially the Wish You Were Here album since I was less than a decade old. My parents were quite the music lovers...

Anyhow, as I let myself get lost this morning in the song, I cried. It is the most beautiful time I think David has ever sang it. I thought about being young and feeling something unexplainable in the music. It reminds me of finding Mark and discovering that we both had a fondness for the Floyd and it wasn't something that I liked just so he'd like me and we would have something in common. One night while Mark and I were hanging out in our 'just friends' stage, one of us suddenly blurted out "like black holes in the sky", which is exactly what the other had been thinking. It was funny and some how profound.

Today I thought about the unconditional love I feel for Mark and how grateful I am to be a part of his life and to have him as a part of mine. Thank you David Gilmour and Roger Waters for caring enough about your good friend, Syd Barrett, to write about what it may have been like for him to be who he was. I am forever in love and will shine on...

Every parent deserves a break...

2008-10-30T16:09:00.005-06:00

I want to tell you about an experience I had last week when my little chica and I went to lunch.

I love Cancun Cafe in South Salt Lake...it is one of my favorites in Utah. Maddie has been so much more independent these days and sometimes I get pretty frustrated to go out alone with her. Mark is always so good at calming her down. But I really wanted my #6 so we stopped.

As soon as they showed us to our table Maddie freaked out. She wanted to run around and check everything out. Granted they have made a little cantina on the other side of the restaurant and it was bright and inviting, but still...So I calmly asked her to stop and decide if she wanted to sit in the booth by me or have her own side. While I looked around and noticed that I was the only one in there with a kid, I hoped she'd quickly and quietly decide. She chose her own side of the booth and took a seat, for which I was thankful.

I started ordering and Madison was diving into the chips and salsa, which are DELISH. After the server left I thanked maddie Girl for calming down and told her that I had gotten her the ice cream she was asking for. By the way, she had just come from lunch at Denny's with Nana and Papa. A weekly tradition...

Anyway, our server returned and let me know that the lady sitting 2 tables over had just paid for my #6. I asked why and she said I would have to ask her. As the lady got up to leave she stopped by and said that I had handled Madison very well when we first got there and that every parent deserves a break. I said thank you and was in shock.

I will admit I teared up. I couldn't believe the thoughtful thing that had just happened to me. I have been thinking a lot lately about how many blessings I have received lately and what I can do for the people I see everyday. That was awesome!

I will look for a way to pay it forward...

Gavin...

2008-10-15T20:43:00.002-06:00

My beautiful sister and her cute husband Conrad with my very precious nephew Gavin!! Holy Moly I can't wait until they come visit in a few weeks. Love and miss you all...

I'm in love...

2008-10-14T13:07:00.007-06:00

I am so in love today! Here are a few of the many...

1. Mark...He is the BEST

2. Bexley...he was so cute this morning getting ready for school

3. Madison...she is adorable and funny and I wish I had her cute face

4. Fruit Leather...Orchard Cherry...can't get enough...

5. c jane...she is my favorite person that I haven't met...love her blog and family...

These are just a few of the things in my heart today...

I love my life...

2008-10-09T15:12:00.003-06:00

I am so thankful for all that I have. I wish I could do more for those around me. My husband, Mark, is AMAZING and I love him A LOT!!! He is my very best friend and so fun to be with. He is an awesome dad...Bex and Maddie are very lucky. I am so glad that I persued and won. He is the best and today I am very thankful for him. I love you Mark!! Thanks for EVERYTHING!!

The last of the pictures...for now!

2008-09-25T11:59:00.002-06:00

The Ladies...

The Dudes!!!

Seriously...more 80's...

2008-09-25T11:53:00.003-06:00

Snacks a plenty

Me & Darlene...love the blue!!
Ariel & Dana...the Bopsy Twins!
Chris...nice Hawk! Such a sport...

80's continued...

2008-09-25T11:48:00.002-06:00

Crazy Erin...She hearts NYC!
Wendy...WOW!!
Michelle, Me, & Echo
I know...I'm the Favorite!!
Bexley & Echo...ready to PARTY!!

THE 80'S...IT WAS AWESOME!!!!

2008-09-25T11:25:00.002-06:00

It was so much fun...I have the best friends! Willing to make themselves look ridiculous to make the party a huge success. Can't wait for the next party...Anyone remember the 70's?

Looking oh so HOT!!

My cute BOYS...I am very LUCKY!

Tubbs called...He wants his jacket back...I love you Mark!!

More pictures to follow...

What was I thinking?...PTA Carnival

2008-09-25T11:11:00.004-06:00

Cotton candy...bigger than his head...
My first dunk!! It was cold!!
Seriously...why am I doing this???
COLD!! Am I done yet!??!?!

As PTA President of the elementary school, it was my honor to be in the Dunk Tank for about 30-45 min. It was really cold, but an absolute BLAST!! Glad I could help out... Lots of people turned out to support the PTA. Thanks!!

Have you been in a Hot Air Balloon???

2008-09-25T10:51:00.005-06:00

This is the picture on the cover of the Davis County Clipper!!

A view from inside the basket

the view from the top...we only went 40 ft in the air...

The pilot and me

Okay...so the balloon was tethered, but I got in a basket and went 40 feet into the air above Meadowbrook Elementary School as part of the assembly about balloons.

I am the PTA president and the pilot insisted I get a ride. The principal, Mrs. Fillmore, called me the morning of and said get over to the school. How could I say no and not do it in front of the whole student body.

I am actually terrified of heights...I won't let anyone I am with get near the windows in a tall building. I never look out the window when I fly. But I was brave and it was a big deal for me.

Because I was willing to do this I got my picture on the front page of the Davis County Clipper with Mrs. Fillmore. I am a celebrity in Bountiful :) Not really, but it was cool to buy the paper and tell the gal behind the counter that the picture was of me!

Needless to say, turning 31 has made me appreciate life a little more and be thankful for the little things I do.

Birthday stories...

2008-09-13T08:55:00.006-06:00

Me and Mama Lu

Adriane, Phyillis, LuAnn, Elayne

Tomorrow (the 14th) is my birthday! I love birthdays and want to share about a couple of the most memorable. Okay...so the 1st one I don't actually remember, but I think it is worth talking about the day I was born. It is quite a remarkable little story.

On Wednesday, September 14th, 1977, a 15 year old girl did one of the bravest things she would ever do. I was born in the early morning. LuAnn Iturrino saw me for only a moment. She knew that at 15 she wasn't ready to raise a baby. I am sure that part of it was that her mom, Phyillis, wasn't ready for her 15 year old daughter to raise a baby.

LuAnn, all on her own I might add, took care of finding a family for her little girl. She kept her pregnancy a secret from everyone except her sister, Elayne, and her best friend. Phyillis found out only 1 week before I was born. It was too late for an abortion...thank goodness!!! Okay this may not all be clear and doesn't have much detail, but as a little girl I always knew I was adopted which in my mind made me extra special. Because I have always known, there was always a curiosity about where I had come from. Who did I look like...Did I have any other siblings?

When I was 18 or 19 my mom (Martha...she got me when I was 3 days old and raised me) gave me a letter that LuAnn had written for me when I was born. It is a beautiful letter. In it she explained why she wasn't with me and that it was not that she didn't love me, she just knew that she probably couldn't provide me all the things that I would need. In her mind adoption was an ugly word. (I understand what she meant) She loved me and wanted me. How incredibly amazing!!! She was so selfless. And beautiful...I say that because I had to get it somewhere... :)

Cut to 30 years later...

Because I have always known and because I knew her name and circumstances, it had crossed my mind numerous times to find her and thank her for giving me life and for being brave enought to give me more. So in July of 2007, while watching a special on VH1 about Darryl of Run DMC and his journey to find his birth mother, I was inspired to look LuAnn up. Hello...we have the internet and it can find just about anything!!

I googled her name...not much was coming up...Somehow I ended up on a peoplelookup.com. A LuAnn Iturrino was listed with a couple of different cities and states. It also listed a Pyhillis Iturrino (her mom) and Elayne Iturrino (her sister). Of course, if I wanted more info I would have to pay to get any actual addresses or phone #'s. Dang! I wasn't about to throw money away on potentially useless info. Now what?

I kept searching around and eventually ended up on freewhitepages.com with a listing for Phyillis Iturrino...in Miami. To make a long story longer...I wrote a quick note stating who I was, that I had been adopted and was looking for my birth mom. I just wanted to say thanks and learn about my family. Nothing more. I included my address, phone #, and email. Didn't really know what to expect, but what was the harm?

I mailed the letter on Monday, July 16th, 2007. I almost forgot about it until the phone rang on Sunday of that same week. P Iturrino was calling...Holy CRAP!! Mark grabbed the phone. I couldn't believe it. What would I say?! I let the voice mail get it...

She left a message saying that she was calling in regards to a letter and that if I liked I could call her back. I cried! Well first I showered...then I cried...then I called her back...

AWESOME!!! I will write more about that later, but I want to get to my birthday.

On September 13th, 2007 I boarded a plane in Salt Lake City headed for Miami. I was going to spend my 30th birthday with the woman who had carried me for 9 months and seen me for 5 minutes before giving me up. I was very nervous and emotional. I bawled on the plane when we were about to land in Atlanta for a lay over. I was about to change my life forever!! After a 3+ hour delay in Atlanta...stupid rain...I got on a plane again for Miami. LuAnn was waiting patitiently at the gate for my arrival. We laughed and cried and hugged. I joked about the "long labor", but that I was finally there! It was BEAUTIFUL!! Mixed emotions and a lot more to tell about...later.

Bottom line...I am EXTREMELY blessed. I know that everything about LuAnn and I was arranged in heaven long before we were on this earth. I am so thankful everyday for who I am and where I have been. I love and adore all of my family. More about them all later too.

So...Happy Birthday to ME tomorrow!! 31 wonderful years under my belt so far...many more to come...

They're perfect...

2008-09-09T09:29:00.002-06:00

I am so "stoked" about these shoes I found at Target...perfect for the big 80's bash. I have already worn them twice. Comfortable and cute!! Can't wait to show them off...

Like...totally...Dude!!

2008-09-06T11:25:00.004-06:00

Jealous much?? I am going to look so AWESOME!!

Possibly one of the great movies of all time...for the genre.

It's all coming back to me now...oh the stinky feet I had growing up...could the 6 pair of socks per foot be to blame?

I am so flippin' excited in a far out kinda way for the Awesome 80's bash I am throwing for my birthday this year!! I love the 80's!! There will be big, crimped hair, lots of bright pink cheeks and wicked blue eyes, and of course, the best clothes ever!! Thanks for the skirt Dana! Can't wait to party like it's 1987!! And seeing how in 1987 I turned 10, it's "going to be so awesome" (as my cute Maddie says). If you want to be a part of this nostalgia email me arcbelievesATyahooDOTcom... "I know you are, but what am I?"

Cousin Gavin has arrived!!

2008-08-26T14:33:00.006-06:00

Happy Birthday!!
Gavin Dale Steven Young
August 22, 2008
8:46 pm
6 pounds 12 ounces
19 inches
Proud parents Marian and Conrad Young

Welcome to the family Gavin! We can't wait to meet you!

http://www.conradfilm.com/gavin

A New Do...

2008-08-21T17:49:00.004-06:00

Bexley before...still pretty good-lookin'
After...so HANDSOME!!

Before...what a mess!

After...so BEAUTIFUL!

Bexley needed a haircut before school starts next week so I took the kids to Cookie Cutters. Bex wanted to experience playing video games while getting a cut so I thought I could make it the annual back to school haircut tradition. It's really not worth the extra $ it cost, but it's a cute place. Madison didn't want her hair cut, but she hates getting her hair done so I think short is better. Plus she is so dang cute anyway...short or long...They both look great and I can't wait to see how much easier it is to get her ready in the morning.

Pictures...finally...

2008-08-21T17:03:00.008-06:00

Here are some pictures from the recent camping trip. We had a great time! We already can't wait for next year! The big news is that Dave and Dar are adding another one to the fam! We are so happy. It is great to be an Aunt. Plus Isaac will have fun being a big brother!

Me and my amazing husband Mark!

Cute Darlene...She was sick with baby #2 all week...

Papa pretending to read while napping...He works too hard!

Helping to set up the tent...I have lost 42 pounds...check out my other blog

Papa, Nana, and Dave getting the fire going for our tin foil dinners...

Thanks Dar...they were yummy!

Madison being her cute self...she was jumping on the air mattresses.

It was FREEZING at night...all you can see of Bexley are his fingers!

I was so COLD!! But I still look good... :)

Crazy Isaac and his blue "Hitler" moustache...he is so fun!

I Love Camping!!

2008-08-09T09:37:00.002-06:00

I am so excited that the family is heading to Coalville tomorrow for some much needed relaxation! We are camping for the week with Nana and Papa, and Dave, Dar, and Isaac. Bexley can't wait to try out his new sleeping bag and Maddie got a cute new pink camping chair. Mark and I also got new chairs too. I've got all the food ready and can't wait! See you in a week with lots of pictures...

Life...it's the best!

2008-08-01T12:58:00.004-06:00

Marian and Sarah
Me and my cute sis Marian
Why so serious Bexley?
Oh Madison...
I have been so busy in July. I have been keeping another blog to track my weight lose. Since July 1st I have lost 32 pounds!! My sisters Marian and Sarah were here for Marian's baby shower. She is due September 5th. Can't wait to meet baby Gavin. We are going camping on the 10th and I can't wait!! One last vacation before school starts on the 25th. It's going to get busy!! Can't believe Bex will be in 3rd grade! Hope he's ready for it. He is so smart, but easily distracted. It will be a lot of work to be PTA president again, but it is also a lot of fun!! Enjoy the rest of summer...

Some recent faves...

2008-07-08T21:34:00.003-06:00

Catch up

2008-07-07T13:44:00.003-06:00

Mark turned 34 on June 24th. The kids and I gave the van a heart attack while he was at work! He was surprised! We love him so much!!

I have been slacking a little bit, but I started another blog to track my weight loss. Check it out and see how it's going...it's been a week and I have lost between 8-10 lbs!

Tagged...Will anyone read it?

2008-06-17T10:41:00.002-06:00

My cute friend, Catherine, tagged me. Thanks! I love talking about myself... 4 things...

4 Things I was doing 10 years ago:
1. Starting my love affair with Mark
2. Living in Provo, UT
3. Spending time with my Grandparents
4. Working at Postnet

4 Things I was doing 5 years ago:
1. Quitting my job at Vern Medical
2. Living in SLC on 7th East
3. Raising a crazy 3 year old
4. Dreaming of the house we'll someday have

4 Things I was doing yesterday:
1. Celebrating my daughter's 3rd birthday
2. Swimming with the kids
3. Chatting with Dave and Dar about our camping trip this weekend
4. Cleaning my kitchen...half way done

4 Shows I like:
1. The Simpsons
2. Family Guy
3. Murder, She Wrote
4. Iron Chef America

4 Biggest joys of my life right now:
1. Mark
2. Bexley
3. Madison
4. and all the rest of my family & friends

4 Things you might not know about me:
1. I was adopted
2. I met my birth mom on the night before my 30th bday (9-13-07)
3. I was PTA President last year & am doing it again next year
4. I kissed a shark...

4 People I tag:
1. Dori
2. Laura
3. Julie
4. Mark

Funny!

2008-06-05T14:49:00.004-06:00

I was snooping around earlier and found this hilarious website with LDS greeting cards. I was laughing so hard I was just about crying. I could definitely use a few of them. I so appreciate humor in all things.

I love Blogging!!!

2008-06-05T11:40:00.003-06:00

Is there anyone out there who doesn't find blogging a little bit addicting? I can't stop lokking at all the cute blogs out there. There are so many ridiculously amazing sites. Thank you for sharing all of you cute families and creativity. I love it! I better get back to work...

Ugh...8 year olds!

2008-06-03T16:32:00.003-06:00

I don't remember being 8, but I can't imagine it was so terrible. I was asking Bexley to turn around and look at me and this was the face I got. I don't know what to do with Bex all summer, but we better figure it out quick so it's not like this all summer.

Amazing...

2008-06-03T16:22:00.003-06:00

I can't believe how much I love my kids. They are so amazing! The other day Madison was playing with a magnifying glass and I got this picture of her. About 4 years ago Aunt Mary got a picture of Bexley thru a magnifying glass . It is a great picture too. Wish Icould get in on the computer for comparison. Oh well...

Hilarious...

2008-05-27T09:16:00.002-06:00

I found this hilarious website nataliedee. It is a little crude, but it made me laugh so hard I was crying. Who couldn't use a good laugh-cry every once in awhile. Have a Happy Tuesday!

I thought summer was here...

2008-05-22T14:23:00.002-06:00

What is with this weather?! It is cold and raining and it's almost June. I really want to go swimming and have fun outside. Oh well, at least when the weather gets warmer I'll wish it was cool again. I am so glad school is almost out for the summer. Bex will be finishing 2nd grade! I can't believe how fast it has gone. Plus the PTA year will end and I have the summer to get ready for the next year. I have decided that I do a lot of volunteering and maybe I need to take a break. Some people can't appreciate all that other people do out of the goodness of their hearts. Sorry for the vent, but I will continue doing what I love even if others don't. I love my family and friends and that's where it's at!

Summer is almost here...

2008-05-06T16:49:00.002-06:00

I am loving the warm Spring weather. I can not wait to move into the swimming pool when it opens. Camping is also a summer must. I love making smores and spending time with my cute family. Coalville here we come...Enjoy!

Family...

2008-05-01T14:00:00.002-06:00

Family Rocks!! I love mine. So good to have us all together. Smile...

Wedding weekend...

2008-05-01T13:28:00.003-06:00

This past Saturday my beautiful sister Marian married her sweetheart Conrad in Dana Point, CA. It was a great day! She looked amazing and he was a very handsome groom. I was busy in the kitchen for most of it, but was so glad to be there to help her out. My kids were so cute at the reception. Bexley was a little busboy and came away with $13 in tips for clearing plates. I think 9 was his plate limit. Madison was a the dancing queen and did not leave the dance floor once the dancing started. She finally crashed on the couch at the church. All in all, it was a great weekend. I was able to be with all my brothers and sisters. Can't wait for the next family get together. Love you all...Congrats Marian and Conrad!!

Yummy...

2008-04-19T09:31:00.002-06:00

I tried a delicious candy bar the other day...Mint 3 Musketeers...do try!

I love what I do...

2008-04-19T08:12:00.002-06:00

Okay, I have the BEST jobs ever!! I, of course, above everything else absolutely LOVE being a MOM...I have the most wonderful hubby and kids! But, that having been said I also really like working at Bond Chiropractic and I have recently started working as a server at Denny's. It is such a blast!! I love serving people and getting to know someone in the short amount of time we spend together. I am so thankful for the talent of talking to people and having FUN! Which leads me to say...Come on in to Denny's and let me take care of YOU! (Woods Cross)
Also...support your local PTA beacuse they can't function without you as parents and as PTA president...it is so worth it! Happy Saturday!

2008-04-13T20:29:00.002-06:00

We had an AWESOME family weekend! Bexley was baptized by his cute Dad on Saturday. He is an incredible little man and was so cute on Sunday bearing his testimony. Be sure to call him Brother Chapman now... We could not be more proud to be his parents. How did we get so lucky? Madison was a great little sister and thought Bex was having fun. Thanks to our wonderful family and friends for being there to support Bex...We love you very much!

Favorites...

2008-04-01T18:21:00.002-06:00

I love Breafast at Tiffany's because I LOVE Audrey Hepburn...She was so amazing! I also love Hitchcock and one of my favorite one of his is Notorious with Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman. It is so romantic...Old movies are the BEST!

2008-04-01T16:58:00.003-06:00

I have seen some pretty cool stuff on other blogs and this one is awesome. Bexley is a very hip and cool 8 year old. He loves music and right now he really digs the Beatles. I couldn't resist making this sign for him from redkid.net. Hope he likes it...

Isaac...

2008-03-31T19:26:00.004-06:00

My cute nephew Isaac...he is so fun. We had him sleep over this weekend and had a good time. He is so independent and really thinks for himself. I am thankful he is in my life. Plus his Mom and Dad are awesome!

2008-03-27T14:22:00.000-06:00

This is me and my love, Mark! Aren't we adorable?!

This is all new to me...

2008-03-27T14:12:00.002-06:00

Thanks Catherine! I too have caught the blogging bug. What a fun way to share my life with friends and family! I love talking so I imagine this is a good outlet. My kids are Bexley and Madison. Bexley is 8 and will be baptized April 12th! We are so proud of him! Madison will be 3 in June and is such a sweet girl. Hilarious...just like her big brother. Well, hopefully I'll figure all this out and make this worth reading. Have a great day!!

2008-03-27T13:59:00.000-06:00