Turned 9 in '2009'!

Kallie did it. Without permission from her mother, she went and got another year older. Why? Why must these little ones grow up too fast? Can we please just freeze this moment in time forever? I probably won't say that when they're teenagers...but for now I wish time could just stand still.

So the festivities went as follows (in chronological order):

Friday (May 1st) we skipped out of work a little early (after a major chemical spill at the office courtesy of Syndey- but that is a WHOLE other story for another day...or not). At Kallie's request we packed up the car and headed for a 1 1/2 day, 1 night mini get-a-way to St. George! I must admit we were all ready for a fun change of scenery.

Here is Kallie opening her present that Grandma Patti & Grandpa Charlie mailed her. She was too excited to wait until her birthday and grandma gave in and told her she could open it early.

'BOLT'...yay! A new movie to watch during the drive :)

We were so excited to have Sam & Maci come stay in the hotel with us for the birthday celebration. By the time we made it through Vegas traffic and visited with Nate and Jeni for a while, we were too late to go swimming on Friday night. We walked across the parking lot to Wendy's and got frosties instead. But first thing Saturday morning, you can bet what was on these girls' mind! They swam and swam until we had to check out of the hotel :(

For lunch Kallie picked Pizza Factory and I wasn't complaining! Yum! Had to get a picture of their matching hair do's! (courtesy of the hair blog once again)

This one's for you Amy...a picture of beeeeeautiful Jeni 29 weeks pregnant with little girl #3.

Next we were off to Fiesta Fun for a little minature golf (look online...buy one get one free coupons, hooray)!

Dan being the golf "bumper". Let's just say we didn't necessarily play by the rules :)

Last stop at Fiesta Fun...the bumper boats! These were hilarious, they shot water out the front and by the end everyone was SOAKED! I wish you all could have witnessed them in person.

Look at Syd's face, she has been taken over by the bumper boat demon :)

Sunday, as is tradition, breakfast in bed! This was tough to make on fast Sunday (we decided the b-day girl didn't have to fast on her b-day).

Sydney was the honored guest at the breakfast in bed party!

Sunday night we invited a few friends over for cake & presents. Don't ask me what's wrong with me...I forgot to get pictures of the whole crew. Here is Kallie working hard on her barbie cake. No comments from those of you out there who are professional cake decorators (you know who you are), Kallie had tons of fun with the frosting.

Finished product...Kallie was thrilled to say the least! And if she's happy...I'm happy!

Happy Birthday dear Kallie...Happy Birthday to you!

Can't help but think about life exactly one year ago, it feels like a whole lifetime ago. Kallie got baptized, we put our house up for sale and we were preparing for the big move. What a crazy year... Oh how we love you Kallie Ann!!!

Tea Time...

Today I was lucky enough to be invited by my sweet little kindergartner to "Tea Time with Mom" for Mother's Day. The celebration came a little early because starting Monday my girls are off track until the end of May. Lucky them, this is pretty much the only summer break they get. They will be spending the majority of it at the local rec center's "KidZone" program. We'll see how it goes!

Their teacher really tried to prep them on manners and how you treat special guests. They pulled out our chairs and made sure to serve us before themselves.

The beverage choices were of course tea and Dunkin' Donuts coffee. I was the ONLY mother who opted for apple juice :)

Sydney drinking her apple juice w/ an entire little packet of artificial sweetener mixed in...hey everyone else was doing it!

Syd's teacher that she adores...Mrs. Rodriguez.

Saturday we had to take a picture of the two of us for the place mats that were at our assigned seats. So after giving blood at the church to support the latest Eagle Scout project, Syd and I ducked into some bushes for a few self portraits. Oh how I love this little girl...my life would be so sad and boring (and clean) without her!

Please notice the purple egg that Syd found hidden in the bushes...complete with candy inside and everything! I'm sure it was missed a few weeks ago at the local primary egg hunt or something. But I'm not exaggerating when I say that you'd have thought she just won the lottery...her excitement was contagious!

Get a bowl of popcorn...

because this is going to be a really long post! Can you say {catch-up}...but you know me, I take WAY too many pictures and I don't want to miss a thing in my blog book (that I keep talking about). So...if you get bored and don't make it through this post, I won't be offended :)

Over Spring Break (as mentioned before) we took a quick trip to Utah. We had a really great time seeing everyone and staying at Papa's house.

On Friday (April 10th) we met KayLynn, Dave and the girls at the zoo. I mean really...who doesn't love the zoo?!? Syd came close to death, yet lived to tell about it...

What is it about self portraits...they crack me up! I love to do them (probably because it's the only time I'm in a picture). The funny thing is the little girls in front of us TOTALLY thought I was taking a picture of them...they had the biggest cheesiest grins on their faces. Too funny, big smiles for a stranger's camera! You can't tell we're sisters can you?!?

And I put this one on because sometimes we all need a good laugh....tell me (honestly) if you didn't know me, would you think I was handicapped! (I can't stop laughing...)

Everyone looks cute in this picture (besides me, but that's not the point)...but look at little Sadie in the front. That smile is a KEEPER!

They love to POSE!

This very well might be my favorite (except that Sadie was in the stroller and not in the photo).

I hope they're best friends with all their cousins forever...they sure love them ALL now!

We finally made it to the front of the line to ride the train...when they informed us that they were going to re-fuel and would be back in 20 minutes. What the heck! But these girls were VERY patient!

The next day we went to Grandma Sherry's house to have an Easter Egg hunt with all the Norris cousins. (Please excuse my girl's hair...I was trying to do a variation of the Easter Egg do off the hairstyles for girls blog, but alas, it went very wrong :).

We miss you Grandma & Grandpa...does this photo make you a little homesick?

Next we went to the Coombs' cousin Easter Egg hunt. I'm afraid I didn't get very good pictures AT ALL. My camera wasn't liking the indoor (thanks to the rain) kiddos running around finding their treasured eggs. But I thought this one was very cute of all of the girls showing off our new bracelets that Andrea made and hid in our eggs. I'm sad Kallie's hand got cut off, but trust me...her's is as cute as the rest!

Our Easter morning would never be complete without picking up all those jellybeans that silly Easter Bunny leaves laying all over the house (or Papa's house this year).

Wow! You're still reading...you must either really love us, or be really bored!

Back at home (on April 17th) Kallie had a Field Day at school that parents were invited to attend. I don't want to miss a thing, so I rescheduled a few patients and headed to school. It was so windy and cold I couldn't believe they were having the kids play in water...I think they were expecting warmer temps! Here is Kallie fishing marbles out of the pool with her toes...brrrr!

Running to dump her cup of water into the bucket. (please excuse her flood pants...we're saving our $$ for summer clothes).

Last weekend we were so happy that the Wheeler family drove down to see us for their spring break. I know what you're thinking...they must REALLY love us. I'm not sure why, but for some reason I think they do.

I'm afraid KayLynn & Dave did a lot of entertaining themselves and babysitting my children...thanks! We did pack a picnic on Saturday and took a small stroll up to the water tower. It is soooo windy here, I had no idea! And up at the top of the hill it's even worse, we almost blew away just like Dorothy!

Holly was telling me that Vegas has to be prettier than Albuquerque, I've never been to Albuquerque but seriously...is this the desert or what!

We let the kids play at the park after our walk and they had so much fun catching the ladybugs that were EVERYWHERE! I think they had over 30 in their little water bottle...

But in the end, they decided to set them all free so they didn't die. Not the best picture, but you get the idea!

And....THE GRAND FINALE...for any of you who made it to the end!

A little bonus picture of Syd that I found on my camera card. I told you...there is nothing better than a good self portrait! :)

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Take your child to work...

How sad is it on 'take your child to work day' my sweet little girls respectfully declined. Ha! That is how you know your kids spend TOO much time with you at work...they'd RATHER be at school!

Oh what I wouldn't give...

I have a friend. I wish you all knew this friend (many of you do). I always hear people talking about their BFF (best friend forever). I feel like I have a long list of BFF's and this little friend is definitely, no questions asked, hands down on my list and always will be. So when Holly emailed to tell me about some weekend retreats that are being held at her parents amazing cabin in Donnelly, Idaho (by McCall) I had to spread the word, because oh man...what I wouldn't give to go to one of these. Miracles can happen right?!? I do want to tell you that I have spent a few heavenly weekends at this cabin and it is one happy place in my mind. Personal favorite...the huge theater room, big bowl of something yummy watching the movie of choice for the night. And I haven't even been there since the pool house was built...


So if you are looking for a little girls weekend (and you know you are) check out this website and sign up! Believe me you won't regret it...and there are many of us that will assure you that when the Bird family says "gourmet meals" they mean food that you will want to lick your plate when no one is watching :).

I have lots of girls on my "list" that are a hop, skip and jump away from this place and if you all sign up for a weekend I might just fly into Boise and drive up with you (seriously).

Check it out and let me know when you're going...

http://westmountain.homestead.com/

Beau Update...

My aunt Kamie lives by Bryleen & Corky and gets regular updates from them on Beau's current state and all of his comings and goings. I thought some of you might find Kamie's updates as entertaining as I do! I'm so happy when she emails them to me, it makes me feel so excited for Beau...I'm pretty sure he thinks he's in the middle of a dream that he never wants to wake up from :).

Tues 4/14 Update

Dear Carrie,

I just got done reading your blog. What a sweet tribute to my new cousin. I think we look a little alike, the hair above the lip you know?! Maybe Dan's next venture could involve electrolisis. He could help people sleep through the procedure!

Beau's step-parents talk with smiles in their voices at their new child and you couldn't have bestowed a gift on two more grateful people. What a great blessing!

Byrleen went out to mow the lawn yesterday because Uncle Buck's knee was hurting and he called to tell me that Beau was going crazy because Byrleen was out and he wasn't with her. I don't know what was funnier that Beau was crazy or that Corky took time to call me and tell me about it. We should start a new blog called "Beau Watch".

When I talked to Byrleen a little while ago, they were headed out the door to buy a new bedspread because "We can't wipe his feet clean every time he comes in; that would drive him crazy. And he has to be able to bring his bones to bed if he wants to." (Silly me)

And then as the call ended "Come up and see us all when you can."

I know you miss him terribly but be comforted in knowing that while you are slaving away he is enjoying the life of "King Beau". Thank you for your sacrifice to save him and them.

Love you all so much.

Kamie

4/15/2009 Update

7:15 this morning and Uncle Buck is in the yard with rain pouring down on him because Beau refused to get wet and had gone without peeing since yesterday at 3:00. So Corky picked him up and went out to the yard with him and set him down so he could pee. I don't think an umbrella was involved for either but I'm sure we may see them on the news later today.

Then he gets back in the house and Byrleen is cooking up some hamburger for the king (I told her she should rename him Elvis).

Both Byrleen and Corky had called me by 8:00 to tell me how much the other one liked him more. He has a hair appointment next Monday with Mindy (a friend of mine from the ward).

Byrleen is willing to change his name because the Obama's named their dog Bo. I told her that was a slum name and the Beau was very dignified.

So, I'll try and keep you posted but every single little thing Beau does is an entire story and I may not have time to write the details.

I don't blame you for keeping the dishes. When I had to put Whitney down and before I brought Marjorie home I didn't take down her things either. I don't know why because everytime I walked by they would tug at my heart but it seemed like I didn't care if I got rid of them.

Have a great day.

Love Kamie


4/16/09 Update

Dear Carrie,

It snowed here yesterday and Beau had a delightful time dashing from one end of the yard to the other chasing the birds out of "his" yard. There were only a few inches of snow then.

Unfortunately, by this morning there were 8-9" on the ground and he peed on the patio because it was as deep as he was and what could you expect?

Then he was safely back in the arms of his doting step-mom and a towel warmed in the dryer; then back to bed to sleep off the horrible ordeal.

This morning step-mom was trying to dust when I called and he was terribly upset because she was supposed to be throwing the ball with her free hand. Don't interrupt the new schedule, okay?

Things here are great I hope you're doing well. I hope you have a fun time with KayLynn and family.

Love ya,

Kamie

I'm happy for his sake...

We just got home from a quick trip to Utah for a few days. Aunt Byrleen and Uncle Corky were nice enough to babysit Beau for us while we were there. After much deliberation and thinking of what is best for this little doggie...we decided it's best if he moves in with them (permanently). Here I go again...crying.
I know this is going to be so much better for him. He sits home all alone at least 9-10 hrs every day, sometimes more. When we get home we're tired and the list of things to do is long. When I'm exhausted and ready for bed he's ready to play. You all know he sometimes annoys the heck out of me, but oh how I love this little doggie. (Hold on, I have to go get a kleenex). It is because I love him that I am excited for him to be with 'Uncle Buck and Aunt B'. They have a nice big house with lots of room to roam and lots of beds to lay on. They have the perfect fenced backyard with lots of grass and shade and plenty of birds to chase and bark at. They have lots of time to love and lots of attention to give...things we are lacking in these days. He even sleeps in bed with them :) We know he's going to love living with retired folk more than us crazy working people. And we are so excited to be able to see him, love him, play with him and of course throw his ball for him every time we go to Utah, and every time Corky and Bryleen make their way to Vegas (which is very frequently). We love you Beau!!! Thanks Corky and Bryleen for making all of this little doggie's dreams come true. (sniff)

Bittersweet...

What can I say...the deal is done. The sale is final. I'm glad it's over. Why am I crying? Goodbye little house. I know the new owners will love you as much as we did.
I know it's a blessing. Henderson is a fine place to live, but I will always miss Chestnut Loop.

{TOP 5} Tuesday...I never!

{TOP 5} Tuesday: 5 things I never do...but never say never! So I will list them as 'Top 5' things I almost never do just in case I actually do one of them sometime...

1. I (almost) never watch TV before 10pm...if at all.

2. I (almost) never dust...sad, but true.

3. I (almost) never swear....except when I think it's funny :)

4. I (almost) never exercise anymore...I used to very faithfully (I blame Dan)!

5. I (almost) never, EVER, EVER sleep on my stomach...hate that!



And 6 (a side note)...I (almost) never do a post without some random side note...

These little girls earned root beer floats and popcorn by cleaning their room, toys, cleaning the gerbil cage, emptying the dishwasher etc...

I found it very amusing and fascinating how their little minds planned a strategy in STRATEGO (if you don't have that game, go get it). Basically you're trying to 'capture the flag', each member of your army has a number and the higher numbers eliminate lower numbers. Bombs kill everyone except a 3. So (normally) you are trying to hide your flag and protect it by surrounding it by high numbered men and bombs.

When the game began Kallie said, "Sydney always beats me in this game."

This is what I found fascinating...a little six year old (who almost always wins) who has her flag in the corner totally UN-protected by any bombs and surrounded by mostly low numbers. She put ALL of her highest numbers on the front line and was killing off Kallie's army at an alarming rate. I realize that I may be the only one who finds this interesting, but I guess thinking outside the box pays off sometimes! (And yes Kallie was laughing so hard we almost got a nice root beer float shower :)

Here are the remains of Kallie's poor army where her flag had been surrounded by bombs and high ranked military personnel...hmmm. Go figure! (And yes, Syd was just being cheesy because she thought it was hilarious).

I just thought all of you Stratego fans might want to know Syd's little secret.

And last one on my {TOP 5} list: I (almost) never, EVER, EVER get everything done that I need to. So, I'm done blogging and off to the laundry. HAPPY TUESDAY :)

The Tale of 2 Purses...

Many (or most) of you have already heard this story, but I love it and I wanted to make sure it ended up in my Norris Family Blog Book that I'm going to print soon (really).

The story takes place many months ago while we were back in dear, sweet Bellevue, Idaho. My aunt Diane (check out her blog on the side) had driven all the way from Phoenix just to see me (and a few other people along the way, but I like to think she came just to see me). Diane told me that she needed a new purse, I told her that she needed to look on ebay because they have great prices on literally thousands of purses. So, late one night after all the crazy munchkins were in bed, we got on ebay and began Diane's search for a "bronze" purse. We were having so much fun looking and the purses she was finding were super cute! Finally she decided on one, and low and behold they had the exact same purse in an ivory color. So (of course) we both needed the same purse, hers in bronze and mine in ivory. We placed the order together to save on shipping and we both felt happy as clams! But then I explained to Diane that there was no way I could tell my hubby that I just got a new purse (even if it did only cost $25), he already teased me about my 'new bags are so much fun' habit. So together we formulated the plan that she would keep my purse at her house until we saw each other next, then she would bring my purse to me wrapped nicely in a gift bag and we would tell one and all that it was a present from Diane to me! Great plan! So several months later they came to see us in St. George and Diane brought with her a large gift bag with a picture of a huge teddy bear on the front. What could it be??? A purse...for me...I love it! Later I showed Dan the "gift" Diane had given to me, to which he replied, "Well, that was nice of her, but it doesn't really look like your style." Ha! I picked it out and I loved it...I loved it even more because Diane had the same one :)

Here's the faux leather purse straight from ebay...

But then last week in church our lesson in Priesthood/RS was on budgeting. The lesson was excellent and really motivated me to get myself organized and my life put back in some sort of order. I feel like since the "big move" I've been literally a crazy chicken running around with my head cut off. I really felt like I needed to sit down and think about what was working for me and my family and what was NOT working, and then really formulate a plan to get our lives and schedules more organized. The first thing I thought of was...a planner. I need a planner where I can calendar, schedule, list, jot, compile, gather...etc. But when I looked on Franklin.com I knew that a new planner set-up was a little out of the budget right now. So I called my mother to ask her if she had an extra planner binder lying around...she did! The problem was that the binder is black and there is no way that ANY planner is going to fit in my beloved ebay purse.

So I decided I needed a quick trip to Ross to find the solution to all my problems :) I laid out at least 6 black purses and really thought through the contents of my purse (including everything I pack around for the office as I forward calls and answer phones on the road). And this is the one I came up with!

There is a time for beauty and style and then there is a time for organization and functionality. As you can tell this is NOT the purse of style and beauty, but just LOOK at the set up inside that thing! For sure a Franklin will fit in that puppy! In fact last night Dan and I were sneaking candy into the "Ka" Cirque De Sole show that we were given tickets to (so fun by the way) and I jokingly said, "I don't know...I'm not sure if I can fit that candy in my purse." And Dan said, "I could fit in your new purse!" Ha! It's true...he could! But man on man, big & black I'm your newest fan :)

So please forward me any and all tips for organizing your life, schedule, kids, home...whatever! Any any ideas and books you've read that have helped you manage your time better would be greatly appreciated as well!

As a side note...last week I showed you what was blooming in my back yard. Well, I lied! Now they are REALLY blooming and they are beautiful! I'm pretty sure my neighbors are going to start wondering what is wrong with the crazy lady who's out with her huge camera, in her pajamas, standing on the step stool. I love SPRING!