HOGG HAPPENINGS...

2010-11-10T20:10:00.001-08:00

Well the official countdown is on.

2 more days till baby.

Friday is THE day. Baby is very breech.... yes, I know! YIKES!! I'm not impressed either.

The doctor is planni

ng on trying to turn baby Friday morning if it works, she will induce me, if not, c-section....-ugh!

Lets just say this was NOT my plan at all! So I'm NOT impressed. Let's just say I"m scared... scared of the unknown.

This pregnancy has been a lot different than my last. I usually LOVE being pregnant, I'm usually not sick, and I have energy and feel great. Well, that was until I was about 7 months prego. I was having sharp pains on my left side of my lower stomach and was in a lot of pain. After many ultrasounds and tests

, they found that I have a separated pelvic bone.... NOT fun. VERY painful. This makes the whole left side of my body ache.

My lower back is trying to take on the weight and it is killing me. By the end of the day my left side of my body is pretty much numb, and to top it off baby is breech (very high into my ribs) so I have a hard time catching my breath and just breathing. So yes, this pregnancy has been hard.... harder than

with Makenna. Let's just say I'm not too fond of being pregnant anymore- such a love hate

relationship.

I know I need to write somethings down about this pregnancy so I don't forget.

Things about this pregnancy:

1. Being pregnant with a 3 1/2 year old is a whole new experience. I get daily updates from Makenna onhow BIG my belly is getting and questions like "why does it take so long for baby to come?" and "it's gonna be a big baby mommy, your belly is SO big"! Just what I want to hear every day...

2. Makenna is the best little helper ever, she ismy personal "helper". Every morning she gets my slippers for me and puts them on so I don't have to bend over. She is SO willing to help pick up anything on the floor so I don't "squish" the baby. She even sweeps the floors!

3. Each day our baby receives never ending kisses and hugs and songs from Makenna. Let's just say she is SO excited to be a big sister... it just takes too long for her liking.

4. I really enjoyed being pregnant in the Summ

er, as I wasn't too far along yet. I always feel better when I have a nice tan and painted toe nails.

Wearing light shirts, eating way to many freezes and living in a bathing suit hanging out at the beach with my toes in the sand is a pretty good way to be prego all s

ummer long.

5. I can't get enough of Peanut Buster Sundays... DQ I LOVE YOU! Let's just say anything chocolate and ice-cream made me feel great!

6. I decided to get Maternity Pictures taken this time, because I have like one picture of me prego with Makenna and I really wish I had more. It was SO fun and I will for sure do them again next time... that is if there is a next time. I posted some for you to check out.

7. FEARS-- yes, I can't help but worry about everything?? How I'm going to do things with 2 kids??!! I really don't know how people do it. If you have a secret please let me know! I'm just hoping I will be able to manage my time, so that nothing important gets over looked. I'm worried about Makenna-- will she still get all the love she needs? We have tried to prepare her for this baby as much as possible, I'm really hoping she adjusts well.

8. Oh, and I can't wait to be able to wear my jeans again... NO more spandex bands around the waist and trying to find things to "fit".

9. I will miss being able to enjoy chocolate and sweet late at night... just because I had a GOOD reason to justify eating it.

10. I have had a mad love this pregnancy for Apples and Vanilla Yougart and Caramel Sauce-- that's right all together--- TO DIE FOR YUMMY!

Will I miss being pregnant?? Maybe just a little, there is just something about being pregnant thay I really do love?! But it is now time to meet our sweet little baby. I'm certai

n the baby is a stubborn RED head... that would explain all my pregn

ancy problems! LOL

Well we are packed, clothes are washed, and all baby necessities are ready, we just need baby. As much as I want it to come, I don't. FEAR of the unknown is what eats away at me. I do know that things will all work out, I just need to have faith. Wish me luck... Next Post will be BABY!!

Reggie's Wedding

2010-11-04T10:13:00.001-07:00

Well, these posts are really out of order- Sorry!!

I just have to post pictures of my Brothers Wedding!!

It was SO SO beautiful. He got married in September to the most AMAZING girl, we just LOVE her. It's so nice to finally have a sister in law! Aren't they the most beautiful couple ever... they were stunning!! I was so blessed to be apart of their special day.

Enjoy the picture overload, sorry

there are in the wrong order, but you get the jist!

Halloween

2010-11-04T10:02:00.001-07:00

Well, this year Makenna was a little Batarina!-- to clarify that is a Bat and a Ballerina in one. She got to wear her costume three times. To dance class, pre-school and trick or treating. She loved being able to wear make-up and wanted LOTS of it on with tons of sparkles... oh boy it's already begun, she couldn't stop looking at herself in the mirror. She loved everything about Halloween. We went trick or treating in Stirling this year with Makenna's cousin Shaylee. Makenna could have gone ALL night long, she just kept asking "one more house?" I wasn't able to do too much on Halloween, walking house to house about killed me so I hung out with my sister at her place while Joel did his daddy duties and walked to EVERY house!!

Catching Up...

2010-11-04T09:58:00.000-07:00

PRESCHOOL!!!

Thats right my little Makenna started Pre-School in September. She LOVES it! She goes Tuesday, Thursday Mornings... these are wonderful days for both of us!! She can't wait to tell me all about her day and show me her "crafts". Hurray for Pre-School! This is her Pre-School "pose", as she calls it!

Oh, BABY!!

2010-06-18T11:07:00.001-07:00

That's right baby #2 is on it's way!!!

We are more than thrilled to be expecting another baby..... GIRL!!

on November 16th/2010

Makenna is SO SO excited to be a big sister and

can't wait for her little baby sister to arrive.

I'm 18 1/2 weeks along and feeling GREAT!

We feel SO blessed to have another sweet baby join our family.

Shaving my legs....

2010-05-13T12:18:00.001-07:00

Well Makenna loves to have showers. She could seriously be in the shower till her skin is all wrinkled. On Sunday morning she was in the shower doing her thing, while I was busy getting ready and Joel was ironing his Sunday shirt. She had been in the shower for at least 30 mins now.

This is why Joel loves being in a house with just girls:

Joel: "Makenna it's time to get out of the shower we are going to be late for church."

Makenna's response: "Leave me alone, I"m shaving my legs!!!"

And that was that! Hmmm I wonder where she has heard that from. LOL

Hope you're all enjoying the sunshine today we sure are!

The landscaping is in progress! Yeah!!

Seriously, I know...

2010-05-06T13:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, it has been forever!! I'm such a slacker with this "blogging". Life is SO busy and crazy I feel like I hardly have time to shower let along blog! Why now?? Well I"m not able to do any office work this afternoon because the computers are down so here I am updating instead of a lot of other things I could be doing on my list; and I'm tired of getting bugged to update my blog! :)

I really love to check all of your blogs.

SO many of you are amazing writers and have such wonderful and inspiring things to write about. So to be honest I just feel like I can't keep up to all of you!! So I will attempt to update my blog as soon as I get more than two minutes to myself.

Well a lot has happened since my last update....

First-- our addition on our home is DONE!! Well it has been done since December and we LOVE the space but on the downside--- SO much

more cleaning! What was I thinking wanting another bathroom?? LOL Pictures to come as soon as I get time....

Second-- We went on our 1st vacation in March.... HAWAII!! It was SO SO SO amazing, and thanks to GREAT amazing grandparents we were able to leave our

little one at home. When we got married well almost 8 years ago we we

were going to Hawaii on our honeymoon but we decided to buy

our home

instead... man I hate being responsible sometimes!! So this vacation was our honeymoon.

We can't wait to go back it was so amazing!!

Third-- Our little monkey Makenna turned the big 3! Makenna has been such a JOY in our lives.

She is SO much like her dad it's scary!! LOL We just can't get enough of her sweet and spicy personality!

Fourth-- We are just waiting for this CRAZY weather to go AWAY so we can get landscaping the backyard. I can't wait until I can send Makenna outside to play. My amazing hubby installed video cameras outside so I can see everything going on while I'm working away in my office. I also can't wait to get a cute patio set for my deck and well my list is very long....!!!

Fifth-- EASTER!! Makenna loves Easter SO SO much. She loved coloring eggs with her daddy

hunting for eggs that the Easter Bunny left and she couldn't believe that the Easter Bunny left her a basket full of goodies.... she was thrilled!

Watch out Easter Bunny you may have some competition!

Sixth--We are just loving life and are SO grateful to have such a wonderful healthy happy family. We have been blessed with such amazing friends, who have helped us more then they will every know. Oh and we are so excited to finally be having a wedding in the family. Reggie my brother FINALLY popped the question to the most amazing girl ever!! The wedding is in September and Makenna is a flower girl and I'm one of the bridesmaids... so excited!!

Seventh--

Makenna started swimming lessons-- she is such dare devil!! Of course she is in a class with all boys-- figures! She bosses them all around and shows them all up with her "skills" as her dad would say. Check out her "form"! She has NO FEAR for anything, her dad loves it but it scares me a little bit. She is her dad's shadow and will do ANYTHING for her "Joel David"-- yes she loves to call her dad that.... hmmm wonder were she heard it from??!

Oh and she got her ears pierced!!

She was so brave and strong... and she loves them!!

Well that's it!! Don't worry there is lot's more to come.... I promise to make things a lot more interesting from now on.

Just a little note to say....

2009-06-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

SOOOOOOOOO LOOOONNNNNNGGGGG!!! We are bustin out of here and off to THE LAKE for two weeks and a bit. I can't wait to just sit and relax and enjoy myself my family with nothing but the outdoors and of course a little shopping!!!

This is how excited we are to leave! Hope you all have a great beginning to your Summer holidays!

What's going on at the Hogg house....

2009-06-09T17:53:00.000-07:00

I'm SO bad at this blog thing. Life is SO crazy busy that I forget to update mine when everyone else's lives seem way more interesting than ours.

We have been down to the Lake already this year... BEAUTIFUL weather, I even got a tan!! Makenna L O V E S it, and is so sad when it's time to go home. I love to just sit on the beach and get as many "rays" in as possible while Makenna plays in the water and sand. Makenna loves to go in "pa pa's boat" and ride his "jet ski" she loves to go fast-- crazy dare devil child of mine (too much like her dad I think). I can't wait to spend our Summer at the Lake. We just love that Grandpa and Grandma have a place for us to enjoy all Summer long. :) Here are a few from our May Long trip and from a couple of weekends ago.

I have decided to go back to work on Friday mornings at the office. I didn't realize how much I really did miss it SO much, I love the atmosphere and all the employees. I have the sweetest lady that watches Makenna for me and Makenna LOVES to go to her house. I still work from home during the week, BEST thing ever. I work while Makenna has her afternoon nap. I love having a list of things to be done that day and am usually on the phone with clients most of the time and typing away. It sure is a great break from my crazy little two year old sometimes.

I can't complain, I have the best of both worlds!!

For those of you that don't know we are putting an Addition on to our house. We have a really BIG lot and will be putting another 700 square feet in the back. It will include the master bedroom with a master bath and walk in closet (YES!!) it will also have a large office-- as I really need more space for my office/craft room. We will have a full basement for our use only as we rent out our basement now. I can't wait for a playroom, storage room and large living room!! YAY!! The basement just got dug and we will be doing the footings this week so hopefully the walls will be up before you know it!!!

Joel found this when we were digging the basement-- Good old HOMO MILK!! We had a good laugh over this as that is what us REEDER kids were raised on. They can't call it HOMO anymore, hmmm I wonder why? LOL

We are hoping to have our Addition done by October and livable.... it will be an adventure but I can't wait to have more space. I wish we could be building our dream home but prices are SO crazy right now and we want to build our dream home on an acreage some day.

Other than that, Makenna is growing like a weed and is for sure keeping my on my toes every minute of every day. She sure is a little crazy thing but we love her and wouldn't have her any other way!

And my latest project was making a beach blanket to take to the lake. I found this material and fell in love with it and couldn't wait to get started so it is done already! I think it turned out pretty darn cute, almost too cute for the beach! LOL Don't look to close the sewing is not the greatest but it sure was fun! Hopefully Summer is here to STAY!!

Mother's Day come and gone...

2009-05-12T14:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there!! I wish mothers day lasted longer than 1 day... perhaps a week would be nice don't you think?

I had a great Mother's Day!! We headed down to the Lake for the weekend to open everything up and get ready for the Summer-- YAY!! Joel surprised me with a VERY thoughtful card and with a gift of A DAY AT THE SPA--- anything I want and when I want!!! WHOOT WHOOOOO can't wait! Joel always seems to "Bust It Out" as he calls it every year. LOL

I just LOVE being a mom!!! I never would have thought it would be this much work and SO much fun and rewarding!! Yes, there are many days that I want to call it quits like when Makenna goes POO POO in her panties -- YUCK! All it takes is a "sorry mommy" and I'm stuck in it for the long haul!! I wouldn't trade being a mom for ANYTHING else in the whole world. Each day I make it a goal to be the best darn mom I can be..... no matter what happens!!

Hope you all had a great Mother's Day--- can't wait till next year!

Makenna sure loves to be a "little mommy" herself. She is always dressing up in her heals, purse and loading up her shopping cart full of her babies and anything she can find-- man this girl know how to shop! LOL I think she has been watching me far too close! LOL

Hot or Cold?

2009-05-12T14:11:00.000-07:00

Makenna seems to be a little confused about seasons... who isn't in crazy Southern Alberta!

Our weather is so crazy... it's hot and we get out our summer clothes flip flops and all and then it snows so back to the layers!!!

Makenna loves to play outside and just the other day she wanted to go out, I told her it was to cold. So what does she do.... she heads into the office where I have piles of her "winter" clothes to be put away and gets dressed to go "outside"!! She put her snow pants on and her hat all by herself and was headed to the door oh, and don't forget dads shades in case the sun does come out! She was pretty darn proud of herself! I just couldn't resist but take some pictures of her but she was sure mad at me when I locked the door (yes, she has figured them out) so she just played happily inside with ALL the winter gear on! What a little girl I have... never a dull moment at our place that's for sure.

What color are you??

2009-05-06T11:40:00.001-07:00

Just a fun little quiz... thanks Andrea!

You are most like: You are Blue
You are cool and soothing, with a hidden spontanious side. You are deeper than most people percieve, and you care a lot for those whom you surround yourself with.
Take this quiz: Which Crayola Box of 8 Color Are You?
Visit Toys For Your Blog.com for more blog quizzes

You are most like:

You are Blue

You are cool and soothing, with a hidden spontanious side. You are deeper than most people percieve, and you care a lot for those whom you surround yourself with.

Take this quiz: Which Crayola Box of 8 Color Are You?

Visit Toys For Your Blog.com for more blog quizzes

Better late then never

2009-04-21T13:44:00.000-07:00

Easter at our house was very eventful. Makenna was very excited for the Easter Bunny to come, we left out some carrots and juice the night before for him to snack on while he hid her basket. She had a blast following the trail of eggs to her hidden basket. She loved everything. She spent most of her morning wearing her new little high heals and blowing bubbles with dad. She giggles like crazy when we blow bubbles. There are a few pictures of her playing outside with her new bucket and shovel in her hat that she just has to have on.

I decided to attempt to cook Easter Dinner on Easter Sunday for my family. My mom had been sick for a week and was getting pretty tired of cooking for everyone all the time so I decided it was my turn. It was my first time cooking a turkey and it turned out pretty darn good. Makenna had so much fun playing with her uncles and loved to sit with grandpa. She of course had to have a tooth pick when every one else did. Hope you all had a Happy Easter.

Easter Sunday in her new Dress... this is the only good picture I could get of her because she NEVER sits still.

Easter Time and more...

2009-04-09T13:24:00.001-07:00

Another holiday has crept up on us again! I just love having a little kid when it comes to holiday's, it gives me a good excuse to decorate and have fun little parties! Makenna is very excited for the Easter Bunny, even though she really has no idea who or what it is. When we ask her if the Easter Bunny is coming to her house she says, "hop, hop, hop" and hops around the house. I really did try to explain to her about the REAL meaning of Easter is but come on she is two and has NO idea. We decided to have a few of her little friends over for a Easter party. We made a cute little Easter Bunny Basket and of course colored eggs, played games and had lunch. It was so fun... Makenna is quite the little hostess. She loves to greet them at the door and help them take their shoes and jackets off. The kids had a blast but it was so nice to sit and chat with the moms while the kids were off playing.

These little baskets were SO easy to make and the kids loved them.

Makenna is really into Lego building lately. As soon as her dad comes home she gets them all out so they can build big castles. She knows that mom is no good at it so she always waits for her dad to play.

UPDATE on the potty training: Makenna is doing GREAT! She loves to use the potty and most of all loves her "big girl" panties. Isn't this picture of her SO stinkin cute where she is just wearing her boots and panties.... she loves to dance in them both! We always tell her to "shake your booty" probably not the best thing to teach your daughter but she looks so cute doing it.

I have an addiction... yes it is EASTER candy!! SO Easter needs to end so I don' have the temptation every time I go into a store!! LOL

HAVE A HAPPY EASTER!!

Our little 2 year old...

2009-04-01T11:53:00.000-07:00

Well, we officially have a 2 year old!!! Her Birthday was such a fun day. We had the house all decorated the night before so when she woke up all she could say was, "ahhh WOW"!! She loved it... all of it. Makenna loves Strawberry Shortcake so everything was pink and green. It sure was hard keeping her busy all day until her party started. When everyone started to arrive Makenna was ready. She took everyone's coats, purses and hats and found them a seat! She is such a little character, so concerned for others all of the time. She watched out the window and screamed with delight when more guests arrived. Makenna loved her little party blowers, she danced around the house blowing one all night! We ate pizza and played fun games and yes then it was time for presents, she couldn't wait! It is so fun to watch a 2 year old open presents. She ripped into each gift so fast and her expressions were priceless as she pulled out each gift. She wanted to stop and play with each one but we had to move things along right?!

Then it was time for her beautiful birthday cake that her Auntie Ginnie brought... so adorable!! Makenna was so excited to see her cake and kept saying, "danks, danks, danks (aka thanks) to Ginnie. We had been practicing blowing out candles so she was ready and blew them out all by herself on the first try! She LOVED it! Makenna doesn't sit still long enough to get a good picture of her-- dang it, she looked so cute and loved wearing her birthday hat all night! We had to pry her dress and party hat off of her at the end of the night, if only birthdays lasted longer then a day. It was hard trying to kept the party going and be social and take pictures too!! We had such a wonderful day and are so glad that our families live close enough to celebrate Makenna's special day with her. Sorry for the picture overload and they are a little out of order but I'm sure you will get the drift.

Oh how I love my sweet little TWO year old girl!

Digging into her cake again at the very end of the night... it was SO SO yummy.

Makenna in her new

b-day jamies still blowing her little blower!

March 30/07

2009-03-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

Makenna Ray Hogg

I was a week over due at this point and you know NOT happy. Friday morning, March 30 I woke up bummed because the baby had not come yet. My doctor told me to phone him Friday morning if I hadn't had the baby yet and he would get me in to be induced that day. Excited I got out of bed showered shaved my legs ( to the best of my ability at the time) and get ready to have this baby!! At 9:00 I called my Doctor and to my dismay he would not be able to induce me as he was going out of town for the weekend to a conference and they were booked at the hospital already. If I didn't have the baby on the weekend he already had me booked to be induced Monday morning. SO SO SO upset I hung up the phone and just started to bawl!! I was past the point of wanting to be pregnant anymore!!! I did not want to be induced if I didn't have too--- I wanted to got through the WHOLE experience as much as possible. I phoned my mom and she assured me that the baby would come this weekend... she just knew it. My mom said that her and my dad would be in later today to take us to dinner to get our mind off of things. After I hung up the phone I remember just dropping to my knees and asking my Heavenly Father to help this baby to come and SOON. I was so ready to hold a baby in my arms and was so out of patience and was scared to be induced. After I felt so calm and at peace and I knew the baby would come before Monday, so I waited.

NOTHING happened all day. Not a NOTHING! I just wanted my water to break and get this over with!

We headed to The Keg with my parents later that night and had to wait for about 45 min. to get a table. I started to feel sick just waiting. I started to feel a few pains in my stomach but thought nothing of it. We finally got to our table and we were looking through the menu and I started to feel a little more pain--- but not nothing to bad. We ordered and while we were waiting I felt SO much pressure down there so I waddled to the bathroom and as I sat down I felt like I needed to PUSH so bad. Scared I got up and waddled back to the table and was feeling a lot more pain at this point. I sat down and said, "Joel, it IS time"!! My mom was so excited and my dad wanted to know how far apart the contractions were--- "I don't know it just hurts!" I knew this baby was coming and we needed to get to the hospital NOW!

We jumped into the car and Joel thought we had time to go home and get our bags... NO we did not. I thought I was going to die the pain was SO bad. My back hurt so bad and the baby just wanted to come out!

In the Emergency room the nurses were so nanchalant and wanted to know how far apart my contractions were and told me to have a seat ---- HAVE A SEAT I don't think so!!! One nurse saw how much pain I was in and screamed, "get that girl upstairs or she is going to have that baby here"!

Makenna Ray Hogg was born at 8:36pm -- exactly 19 minutes from when we left The Keg!!

She was such a beautiful baby girl with just the right amount of dark hair. She weighed 7 pounds 8 ounces and was 2o inches long.

The moment I saw her I was filled with so much emotion and love. I couldn't believe I had a beautiful baby girl and she was our own. It all happened SO SO fast! But boy was I glad she was here. I said a silent prayer thanking my Heavenly Father for such a Beautiful and Healthy baby girl and answering my prayers so FAST! LOL

Joel was SO happy and proud to be the daddy of a little GIRL! Even though he was a little upset that he didn't get his steak--- MEN!

Joel called my parents and they were just enjoying their dessert and could not believe the news! My mom kept telling Joel, "you better not be lying to me!" So Joel held the phone out and she heard Makenna's lungs and was SO SO excited it was a GIRL! Yes, the headed right over to the hospital and were the first ones to meet Makenna Ray.

When we were leaving the hospital Joel went to get the car and I was sitting in the main area at the hospital all alone with my little baby and I was so full of love and TEARS of joy. I couldn't believe that I was finally leaving the hospital with our own baby.

Makenna has been such a blessing to us in our lives and we just love her SO much.

Makenna is such a busy, energetic, fun-loving and sweet little girl. We love everything about her! I can't believe she is two already, time sure does fly when you got a little one to keep you on your toes.

We love you Makenna Ray and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

America's Next Top Model....

2009-03-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

Hey gals Mandy Baker is doing another giveaway!! This time it is a "Glamour Shot" giveaway.

Follow the steps on her blog Baker Photography and you could be entered in for the Glamour Shot Giveaway!!!

Makenna's Birthday is tomorrow.... I'm SO SO excited I kinda go a little crazy when it comes to birthdays I just love them!!! Pictures of her P.A.R.T.Y to come soon. Have a GREAT upcoming week. :)

Look who's turning 2!

2009-03-23T14:19:00.001-07:00

Our sweet little Makenna will be 2 on March 30. So I thought it would be so fun to do her own little photo shoot of her! She just loved it, well most of all she loved wearing the tutu's and dancing around and popping the bubbles. These are just a few of the photo's I loved out of the 300 that were taken! Mandy Baker took them for us... she is just amazing and Makenna just loves her.

ENJOY!

HOLY CRAP...

2009-03-18T14:31:00.000-07:00

Well what a day I had yesterday, I was so angry that I didn't want to even think about it let along blog about it!

My day was very busy as usual. I had just put Makenna down for a nap and I listen to her talk to herself for a while and then silence. I assume she is sleeping so I close the door to my office turn on my tunes and get to work. An hour later I hear "oh no, poo poo" from Makenna in her room?

I found Makenna in her crib COMPLETELY covered in poop! I mean COMPLETELY covered. There was poop on the walls on the blinds on every blanket stuffed animal I'm talking EVERYWHERE. HOLY CRAP!! is right. I had to take a little moment and leave the room and say a few choice words and return to a puzzeled little girl - saying, "oh no" over and over again. Where to begin you ask-- heck I don't even know!!

Off to the tub she went. I had to scrub her body and refill the tub twice because it was so gross!!

Makenna time out. (like she even gets the idea of it anyways)

To her room to clean the mess, rinse out ALL the bedding and off to the laundry.

3 loads later.....

A whole bunch of anti-bacterial wipes and serious cleaners. Wipe down every ounce of her crib, blinds and walls.

In the mean time Makenna is SO SO tired as she didn't even have a nap, she was to busy well doing other things. So I was trying to not pull my hair out well cleaning up poop and dealing with a cranky little girl who needed a nap- can't sleep in the crib-- NO BEDDING!

Movie time.

Phone call to whom... yes, her father.

"You better be on your way home or I'm going to LOOSE IT! --- he was on his way home.

Needless to say he took her away... anywhere I didn't care, so I could finish making cupcakes for my activity and finish laundry and change.... yes I did have poop on me.

Yes at that point I decided that I was NO longer having anymore children. DONE DONE DONE!

Until she came home and gave me a big hug and says, "sorr, sorr (sorry) mommy".

So my sweet little angel made me almost forget about no more babies. Trust me there won't be more anytime soon.

Oh I just LOVE having an almost 2 year old!!

Potty Time...

2009-03-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

We bought a little potty for Makenna when she was 1, of course she had NO idea what it was... but now she does! First of all I HATE changing diapers, I just do it well because that's what us mom's do right?!

Makenna loves to sit on her little pink potty and put her baby's on the potty as well. We never did mention anything about it to her before as she liked to sit on it and play.

Untill...

Last week she was playing on the floor with Joel and she jumped up and said, "uh-oh" and put her hand on her diaper. Joel stripped her clothes off and ran her to the potty JUST in time for her to go "tinkle tinkle"!! I know we couldn't believe it either. She was so happy and VERY proud of herself. As we flushed it down the toilet she waved bye bye pee pee!!

So off Makenna went and wanted to put on a "big girl" pull up and headed to the kitchen for a popsicle. That night she went on the potty 2 more times!! YAY Makenna... such a "BIG GIRL" now and not even 2 yet!

Since then she has gone on the potty a few times here and there and loving it. Today she was trying to take off her diaper so I asked her if she needed to go potty.... "Ah YES" she said! So off we went to the potty. She pushed and pushed... sorry for the detail but she try's SO hard to go. Joel and I have to try so hard not to laugh at her and her "pushing".

After every push she would get up and look and see if anything was in the potty. One last PUSH... and out came POOP!! She couldn't believe it... "pooh" she say's clapping her hands. Again so very proud of herself and surprised to see it in the potty. She loves to wash her hands and of course heads to get her popsicle.

YAY!!! I'm so proud of my little baby.... oh I mean my BIG GIRL! I sure hope she keeps this up what a great birthday gift to mom and dad---- NO MORE DIAPERS!! knock-on-wood. LOL :)

Crafty moment....

2009-03-03T14:29:00.001-08:00

Yes being a mother of a little girl I tend to have WAY to many accessories for her like her huge collection of bows!!! You can never have enough... one to match each and every little outfit. Makenna LOVES to have things in her hair... let's just say I trained her from birth- she didn't have a choice! But lately these "bows" have been driving me crazy. There are so many and I was running out of room on her dresser so I had to take action! I have seen a lot of these little bow holders and NO way was I going to spend money on one- I will make my own! It is seriously the easiest craft I have done.... it only took me about 25 minutes! I took some pictures of it before all the bows cluttered it up. It turned out super cute and of course I added a little BLING to it.... as I do to most things! The only thing is.... I should have made it longer as I already have more bows on order! LOL

So for all you mommy's out there with the same "bow" problem as me give this little craft a shot it's so easy. All of the supplies are from Michaels and you just need a glue gun and a way you go.

Priceless moment...

2009-02-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

I was busy getting ready in my room yesterday and I just happened to look back and see what Makenna was up to so quietly. She had propped herself up on my bed and put my glasses on and was looking at my scriptures. PRICELESS I know!! I couldn't resist taking pictures... she couldn't figure out what all the fuss was about though. Makenna is always copying everything I do from plucking my eyebrows (long story) don't do this in front of your toddler!! LOL

At least she is picking up a good few traits from me.

Valentines Sister Party....

2009-02-09T13:29:00.000-08:00

I know what some of you may be thinking.... Sister Party??!! Thats right... it's just how it sounds. A dang good Party with our SISTERS!! We each take turns as sisters hosting a party... it is usually for different Holidays or Seasons during the year.

It was my turn to host the Valentines one... I LOVE Valentines day so I was so excited!!! We invited our soon-to-be Sister.... Ginnie- Reggie's Girl.... We just love her and can't wait until she is our SISTER.

We enjoyed great food, conversation, laughter and crafts... oh and a little silliness- notice the heart ears that we have on ... so CUTE and FUN!!

My little sister Shilom did come she just left before picture time. Sorry the pictures aren't the greatest. :(

This is the craft we made... Valentine Mail boxes. They all turned out SO super cute. This is a picture of mine and for some reason we never got a picture of all of them together... sad, I know they were all so stink'in cute!! They are just in time for our hubby's to leave us little love notes in them! :))

And of course the trimmings... each sister got a special Valentines Purse for all of our Valentine goodies... they were so cute I just couldn't resist. I love all of my sisters!! They are all so amazing and we have such a wonderful time when we get together. I have been so blessed to have each of them in my life. So cheers to SISTERS!!

25 Random Things about Me...

2009-02-02T15:10:00.001-08:00

Well I wasn't tagged to do this but I thought... what the heck how hard could it be right??!! Here I go...

1. I hate creepy crawly SPIDERS.

2. I am right smack dab in the middle of 10 kids... that probably explains a lot about me.

3. I love to work... crazy I know but I just LOVE my job.

4. Every part of me smiles inside when I see a little curly red headed girl. :)

5. It doesn't bother me anymore that Joel is shorter than me.... bring on the heels.

6. I LOVE to give service, my mom was amazing at it so I think it passed down to me.

7. I love having callings in the church, I have pretty much done everything now from Young Women, Primary Presidency, Primary Teacher, Activity Day leader, Enrichment leader and yes I think that's all.... I love to serve in the church and give it my all.

8. I am a counselor at LDS Family Services and speak at many of their meetings.

9. To this day I still have a hard time excepting compliments.

10. I hate being known as the "skinny girl".

11. I have a true deep understanding, knowledge and love for the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

12. I love, love, love being a mom... I't brings me so much joy.

13. I can't stand others that take being a mother for granted.... anyone can have a child but it takes SO SO much more to RAISE a child.

14. I love to scrapbook.... when I have time. Makenna loves to look at "her" scrapbook.

15. I have a fear of loosing someone close to me... I don't think I could bare it.

16. I know that I can do anything I put my mind too.

17. I am very self-conscious of my body, I would love to change so many things.

18. I wish I could sew better than I can.

19. I can't stand a messy house--- clutter drives me crazy!

20. I love children, I always have... probably from being a mom my whole life-- 10 kids teaches you A LOT!

21. I LOVE to shop.... of course you all know that.

22. I am so proud of Joel and what he has accomplished in his life... I wish people could get over his past and give him the credit he deserves!

23. There's nothing I love more than a day at the spa.

24. I WILL go on an AIRPLANE one day....

25. I love anything with a little BLING BLING!!

Dang, that was way harder than I thought It would be!!!

Hogg Family Pictures...

2009-01-25T20:20:00.000-08:00

At Christmas time when all of Joel's family was together we got some SERIOUSLY needed family pictures. They turned out pretty good... other than trying to keep two little girls attention!

Hope you all have a GREAT week...

My Makenna....

2009-01-23T13:54:00.000-08:00

Us in our matching aprons that Santa brought us. She loves to pull up a chair and help me cook in the kitchen.
Chillin' on her little couch... drawing pictures.

I have been teaching Makenna her word cards so I saw her teaching her baby after by putting them right up to her face.... so cute!
She loves her house coat... and wants to wear it all day.
She loves Bath Time!

We just love everything about her!!!

Friends...

2009-01-14T14:06:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking a lot lately about FRIENDS. As I have looked back on my life and thought of all of my friends from when I was little and having joint birthday parties and always inviting the same girls that is until we got older. Things were so much easier when we were in Elementary School. We didn't care what others looked like or what brand of clothing they wore everyone was just FRIENDS regardless.

Then comes along Junior High and High School days. WOW things sure do change and so do your Friends... well mine did. It seems that all of a sudden everything matters, from the brand of clothes you wear to what your parents do for a living. Groups start to form... I HATE groups... who ever started that anyways??LOL

Don't get me wrong I had AMAZING Friends in High School SO many great memories. As I went through some trials in my younger days I sure learned who my REAL friends were fast! And I love them to this day for being there for me and helping me get through it.

As I have gotten older.... my Friends have changed-- a lot. I still have Friends from High School but some of my closest Friends today are NEW Friends that I have met at church and through other Friends. And I love it!! There are no groups, it does not matter what you wear or what others think, were just a bunch of women who love and care for each-other. What better thing could you ask for in life than to have GREAT friends??

There is nothing that drives me more crazy than girls I know that are still living back in the "high school days"! Like get over yourselves already!! (sorry I'm venting) High school is SO over! You never know what you can offer another person unless you try and put yourself out there. Why not break out of your little group and get to know others?? It is amazing... to find NEW friends.

I think so much about what Makenna will be like when she is "older" and what kind of friends she will have. I sure hope they don't still have "groups" then. I hope and pray so much that she will have GREAT friends who help her in her life and are great examples to her. I can't wait to teach her about being a friend and loving everyone.

After coming home from a birthday party last night of a friend of mine I laid in bed thinking of how great Friends are. What would we do if we didn't have a group of women to get together with and talk about-- how bad our boobs hurt sometimes (dang nursing babies LOL), labor, sex (yep thats right I said it LOL) and life in general?! Girls Nights- are the greatest nights.... so much well needed laughter and adult conversation together.

Everyone NEEDS great friends. What makes a great friend??

As I laid in bed I thought about being a friend and If I'm doing all that I can to be a friend to others and if I'm doing enough to serve them. So today I encourage ALL of you women and myself to be a better FRIEND to every women you know. You can never have enough FRIENDS in life... right??

Bring it on.... 2009!!

2009-01-05T12:21:00.001-08:00

Wow, another year has come and gone! Christmas was GREAT I just love having holidays full of family and fun!!! 2008 was a GREAT year for us.... life is good! As I look back there are many things I shake my head at and other moments I'm so proud of. We have SO many great memories and we can't wait to make so many more this year. Thanks to all those that were apart of our lives in 2008 and hopefully many more to come! :D

Here is a quick look back... at 2008!!

1. What did you do in 2008 that you've never done before?

- Set up and train a new Law Office and the staff all by myself!

- Get my business up and running from home and LOVING it!-- Work It, Girl!!

2. Did you keep your New Year's Resolutions and will you make more for next year?

I really don't make Resolutions... I make goals. You know the usual, exercise more, eat healthier, be a better wife, mother and friend and improve my work stills and PLAY alot harder- enjoy life more!

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Not anyone close, just a bunch of cousins had babies and friends in my Ward. Oh, and Jodi had baby Grace--- what a little doll.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Yes, unfortunately. My cousin T.J McNabb passed away. He was handicap and lived a very hard and trying life. He always made us laugh whenever there was a family get-together. He is SO much happier where he is now.

5. What places have you visited?

Now that we have Makenna we want to do so many fun things with her like travel... we want her to see so many things!! But we will have to wait until she is older.

As usual we spend our summers at ECHO LAKE> we LOVE it there!! It's our little home away from home. We are hoping to get a trip into Hawaii SOON though!

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?

Way more PATIENCE!! Being a mom sure is HARD and it requires so much patience. I wish I would have spent more time with family and had more fun and stop sweating the small stuff!

7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched in your memory and why?

Not really any specific dates. So many things happened. Our lives are so much more eventful with Makenna. We just love our lives with her!

8. What was your biggest achievement this year?

I would have to say being a stay at home mom and a working mom at the same time! I love using ALL of my skills that I have been blessed with. I'm just so lucky to be able to be at home with Makenna all day and still use my career skills to help others--- I LOVE my job.... I just couldn't give it up well not yet anyways. :)

9. Did you suffer Illness or injury?

Umm, not anything serious- thank goodness.

10. What was the best thing you bought?

- Portable DVD player for Makenna- it sure saves us on those trips to the lake and back.

11. Where did most of your money go?

Bills as usual but most of all on Makenna--- man kids are expensive, or maybe is just girl things are SO much fun to buy- it's never ending! LOL

12. Song of 2008?

- Love Song - Taylor Swift

- Bleeding Love- Leona Lewis

- Take a Bow - Rihanna

- Womanizer- Brittany Spears

- Right Now - AKON

- T-Shirt - Shontelle

13. What do you wish you would have done more of?

- PLAY more with Makenna

- Do things with my Family

- Scrapbook

- Travel

- Take time for myself.

14. What do you wish you would have done less of?

- Turning the T.V. on for Makenna

- Nag at Joel

- Facebook--- it's such a wast of time.

15. Fav. T.V. programs?

- Prison Break

- CSI

- Grey's Anatomy

-90210-- I know SO high school!

16. Best book you read?

-Emma Smith Book-- SO good.

- Twilight Series -- Love'd em.

17. Fav. Movie?

- Twilight

There were so many-- I can't think right now.

18. What did you do your birthday and how old did you turn?

- Heck I turned 25!! I know I'm starting to feel a little old--- but I'm loving it!

On my birthday we were traveling home from the Lake so we didn't really celebrate it-- I know Joel OWES me BIG time... and yes he knows it! LOL

19. What political issue stirred you the most?

- Proposition 8! So many people and groups were hurt by this.... don't get me started. By all means I think everyone deserves to be happy, I'm not against gay's getting married - well no I guess I kind of am. It's just all the repercussions that happen after it like adopting children and there lives etc. See don't get me started! LOL This world sure is getting scary...

20. Who was the best new person you met?

I have met so many GREAT new people!!

Most of all the "Girls Night" ladies! Love you all it has been so fun getting to know you all!

I wish you all the best in the New Year and hope that we all strive to live our lives to the fullest.

Merry HO HO....

2008-12-23T13:01:00.000-08:00

Wow, Christmas sure creeps up on us fast!!! I just love this time of year. I love the decorating, baking, shopping, Christmas music and smells and most of all FAMILY!!! We sure have been busy this December... Makenna loves to help mommy in the kitchen icing sugar cookies and eating fudge! Makenna LOVES the snow!! She loves to see SANTA and says, "HO, HO, HO" every chance she gets. She can't get enough of ridding in her sled and eating snow. I can't wait to take her to the Ranch to do some REAL sledding. We just LOVE our little sweetheart! She is so excited for Christmas... she must get it from me!

Makenna loves getting dressed up for church... this is her on Christmas Sunday... she just loves being a little girl and always has to have something in her hair... Girls are way to much fun!!

I had our Christmas Sister Party on Sunday.... we had so much fun!! We ate great food, enjoyed each others company and opened gifts from eachother. My sister are ALL so talented I just love the all SO much!! I can't wait till next year it was just so much fun. Here is a picture of us sporting our HOT new slippers, leg warmers, and scarfs. SO FUN!!

We are headed out to the Reeder Ranch for Christmas, I'm so excited!! We have so many fun traditions that I can't wait for Makenna to experience.

I hope you all have A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and remember the TRUE meaning of the season.

Special day...

2008-12-10T12:18:00.000-08:00

Well this is a pretty personal post, it is something that is so dear to my heart. And I ask that as you read this you will have an open mind and heart. Some may know and some that pass through my blog and read this that don't know... please keep it to yourself and try to have an understanding heart. Thank you.

NINE Years ago today I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. She weighed 8lbs 6oz and was 20 inches long with beautiful RED hair. The nurses couldn't believe what a beautiful baby she was, they all loved her red hair and couldn't stop talking about her!!

She was PERFECT!!

What a miracle. Giving birth to a child is one of the most amazing experiences ever! I just couldn't believe that I was given such a gift to bring her into this world.

I will never forget when they first laid her in my arms, she was the sweetest thing I had ever seen. I just loved her so much and I didn't want to ever let her go.

Everything about her was perfect even the way she cried. I cherished every moment that I spent with her. I loved rocking her to sleep, changing her and feeding her as my own. I spent 3 amazing days with her in the hospital.

We named her Angelica Ray. As she was our little angel.

The thought of not having her broke my heart. I cried each night holding her knowing that each night would soon end and another day would come and she would no longer be mine. So many times I wanted to leave with her and take her home. But as I looked into her sweet eyes I KNEW that she deserved so much more than I could ever give at that time. The LORD became by best friend. He comforted me each night as I prayed for the strength that I would need to place her with a new family. As HE was the only one that would ever know the pain of this sacrifice that I was to make.

When I placed my sweet Angelica into the arms of her new family my heart was so full of love. The pain and emotion was so overwhelming. The spirit was so strong and it comfirmed to me that I was doing the right things as hard as it was. They were perfect, she was perfect, all together as an ETERNAL family.

As I left the hospital I felt so empty. My heart ached for something that I could not have. I longed to hold her, to smell her again and to hear her cry again. I didn't think that I would ever be ok with out her back in my arms again.

As I look back on these moments it brings tears to my eyes and all the pain back. But I can say that I am MORE than OK. As each day, month and year passes all I feel is JOY when I think of my sweet Angelica Ray. I am so much stronger because of her!!!

Her Parents named her Catherine Rayanna, as they wanted to honor both of her mothers names. So they call her Catie Ray. She knows who we are and loves us so very much. She sure is not afraid to let anyone know that Heavenly Father loves her so much because she has 2 moms and 2 dads! We love to receive pictures, cards, letters and artwork from her. She has grown into such a beautiful, smart, talented and sweet little girl.

Not a day goes by that I don't think of her and the sweet moments that we shared together. I am the person I am today because of her and her life! I have never regretted my decision to place her, I know everything happens for a reason.

I cannot wait for the day that I can hold her in my arms again and tell her how much I LOVE her and that is why I had to let her go.

So today as she turns 9, I cant believe how she has grown and how blessed and loved she is. My sweet Angelica Ray.... I love you more than you will ever know.

Edmonton Trip....

2008-12-02T14:48:00.001-08:00

Well we headed to Edmonton on the weekend to stay with some friends of ours-- Thanks again Taylor and Abby!!

We had a blast!! We headed to the Water Park at West Ed. on Friday for the day. Makenna was in ahhhh.... she loved all of the water slides and watching all of the kids play. She was pretty little for most of the slides except for a few that we took her on... she loved it- she giggled all the way down!!

Of course I did some shopping! Joel was great he dropped me off at the Mall on Saturday and I shopped the whole day with NO Makenna!! YES, it was wonderful, no stroller to push around no crying child, no treats in the purse... just me, my purse and some good shopping shoes--- It was GREAT!!

Even though I was in the mall all day I still need to do MORE Christmas shopping! Crazy I know but I just LOVE christmas--- most of all the excitement, joy and love it brings to everyone!!

Hope your all having a wonderful snowy day!! I just LOVE it....

IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!!! LA LA LA LAAAA (this is me singing)LOL

Tampons anyone??

2008-11-18T18:10:00.000-08:00

After a LONG day of Makenna....

I'm busy tidying up supper and I hear what... yes, "silence".

This is NOT a good thing in our house!

So I'm off to find Makenna. Walking down the hall I see a trail of pads from the bathroom to my bedroom---- sure enough I find her in our bedroom in the laundry basket with my WHOLE box of tampons! She was in heaven.

At this point of the day I didn't even bother getting mad..... it was too cute and I was beyond exhausted.

The picture explains it. What a day some days are with my little monkey!

A little Quiz-- or yet another TAG!

2008-11-14T12:40:00.000-08:00

1. I've come to realize that my last kiss: was this afternoon when I put Makenna down for her nap.

2. Last Night: We went to out to find Joel some new work boots, of course no one had his size! Then we headed to Linen's and Things and got some stuff for our bathroom that we are rennoing. Supper at Taco Bell- home and bath time for Makenna and off to sleep she went so we could watch our Thursday night shows.

3. I drink: WATER with LEMON... all of the time if we are eating out. I enjoy Chocolate milk or OJ if I'm at home to change things up a bit.

4. I eat: Anything well that is if it's not spicy or it if it should be swimming in the ocean!

5. I love: My 2 Monkeys aka: Joel and Makenna

6. My bedroom is: Clean- that is until Makenna is up from her nap she loves to dig in my makeup drawer.

7. My love life: EXCITING... yep that is all the details you get!

8. I hate it when people: are RUDE!

9. Love is: AMAZING and Eventful.

10. Marriage is: Fun, Crazy, exciting sometime not so exciting and most of all ETERNAL!

11. Somewhere, Someone is thinking: of me... I hope! In a good way...

12. I always: Make beds in the morning, Read to Makenna during the day, DANCE to music anywhere, and try to make each day FUN!

13. I have a secret crush on: hmmm... EDWARD - only those Twilight fans will understand!

14. My cell phone is: In my purse.

15. When I wake up in the morning: Bathroom, get Makenna out of her crib- change her diaper- make beds and of course head to the kitchen to make breakfast and a little cartoon time.

16. Before I go to bed I try: Make sure the house & Car are locked, take off my make up, check on Makenna- put covers on her, read my scriptures, say prays-- Kisses Goodnight!

17. Right now I am thinking about: Girls night tonight... FUN! and how I need to get to the office to get the A/R sent today! When Joel when get my bathroom primed and ready for paint.

18. Babies are: PRECIOUS

19. My house is: a wreak most of the time... that is with little Makenna around! Whatever I put away she just takes right back out--- I can't wait for the addition to be done... finally a PLAY ROOM!!

20. Today I: Have already gone to Home Depot TWICE!

21. Tonight I will: Head for Girls night... super excited!

22. Tomorrow I will: Head to a craft show then start painting the bathroom.

23. I really want to: Go to Black Friday... still trying to convince Joel!

24. I want to see: Other Bloggers do this... If ya want!

Hope your all having a GREAT day!! :))

AHHH I deleted it!!

2008-11-13T13:27:00.000-08:00

I just posted a Post and it some how got deleted!!! Does anyone know how to get it back???? Man that makes me crazy......... grrr :(

I've been tagged....

2008-10-21T13:41:00.000-07:00

I was TAGGED by Tiffany... It has been awhile so here it is!!

8 Things I am PASSIONATE about...

1. My Family--- All of them but most of all Joel and Makenna!

2. The Gospel

3. GREAT Friends

4. Having FUN

5. Serving others

6. My Career

7. Outdoors... aka the LAKE!!! I already miss the HOT sunshine!

8. Being a MOM.

8 "words or "phrases" I say way to often...

1. Seriously???

2. Makenna Ray!

3. Hey hun...

4. I love you

5. I don't think so ... little miss muffet!!

6. Say "please"

7. Richard Low & Company....

8. Your too cute!

8 Things I want to do before I die...

1. Go to Hawaii

2. Watch all of my children grow to be healthy, successful and HAPPY!

3. Travel!!

4. Live life to the fullest.... no regrets!

5. Go on a mission with Joel

6. TEACH- TEACH my Children to cherish life and the GOSPEL in their lives.

7. Further my Career.

8. Be the BEST MOM, Sister and Friend I possibly can!!

8 Things I have learned from my past...

1. People make mistakes-- NO ONE is Perfect!!

2. TRUST IN THE LORD!

3. FORGIVENESS is the most powerful thing!

4. People will judge you no matter what.... but it does NOT matter!!

5. Everything Happens for a reason

6. The power of SACRIFICE -- ETERNAL FAMILIES

7. Cherish EVERY moment with Family and Friends - life is TO short.

8. Always SMILE-- the smallest thing can change things.

8 Places I would love to see...

1. In an airplane--- I know I'm a loser never been on one... YET!

2. The beach in Hawaii

3. As many temples as possible

4. ELEN DEGENERESS --- I would love to be in her audience!!

5. Old Navy in Kalispell.... SOON.

6. NYC!!

7. Disneyland with my kids!

8. Salt Lake City- Take my children to Conference and Time Square.

8 Things I currently NEED or WANT...

1. My bathroom completed.

2. A Truck for Joel.

3. New flooring in my house.

4. The addition to be completed and DONE!

5. A VACATION--- I need to get on an airplane!!

6. A day at a COMPLETE SPA!!

7. To sell the car.

8. NO more DIAPERS.. if only!

8 More People I TAG..

1. Angie-- my sis.

2. Shelsea M.

3. Lynnette

4. Dallas

5. Julie

6. Marea H.

7. Laura

8. Whoever WANTS too!

Hope your all having a GREAT day!! Keep on Smiling..... =D

Thanksgiving...

2008-10-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful Thanksgiving this year!! So many things to be thankful for!!! We headed to Cardston on Sunday for Dinner at the Hogg's house. Not all the family was there but of course the food was great!! Grandpa helped build Makenna her Princess Castle... she loved it!!

Sorry the pictures are a little out of order!

We then headed out to the Reeder house Sunday night and Makenna was so excited to get there... so many things to see and do at the farm!! Grandma Reeder has so many fun toys and of course treats! Makenna was up till 10:00 playing!

We then had a great Thanksgiving dinner later in the day. There were TONS of family around and did I mention some of the brothers brought home their "women" for Thanksgiving!! LOL I know, I don't know what it is with the Reeder boys and commitment issues??!!

It was so fun... we hope they become part of the family sooner than later!! The grandkids all had a great time playing together and eating ice cream cones while we enjoyed home made apple, pumnkin, and banana cream pie!! YUMMY!!

We also all had a chance to ride horses with the kids... they love ridding horses at grandpa's house!

Thanksgiving is such a wonderful time of year. We have a tradition at our family to say what we are thankful for... it is a great time to reflect on all of our wonderful blessings.

I am so greatful for wonderful family!! I love and appreciate all of my brothers and sisters so much!! They are all so WONDERFUL!! I'm great full for such GREAT parents!! They have taught me all that I know and I look up to them so much.

Most of all I'm great-full for the wonderful husband that I have. He is such a hard worker and he never fails to make me laugh each day... he is my best friend and I love him dearly. And my sweet little Makenna---- she is my little sweet heart!! She brings so much joy into my life and I'm so blessed to have her and for how healthy and happy she is. Well I think I could go on forever with things I'm thankful for!

I hope you all had a GREAT an YUMMY Thanksgiving day!! Love ya all...

Sick, 1st Pet and fun times..

2008-09-18T10:35:00.001-07:00

Well I think the title says it all! We are sick, well Makenna and I are. Makenna has had a throat infection since Saturday but is doing a lot better now thanks to the meds!! I have just had a bad head cold and sore throat. So it has meant a lot of sleepless nights, tylenol and a good book to help me get through this. Shall I say I love "Twilight" a book by Stephaine Meyer , I'm SOOO addicted to it. I know tons have already read it but I just finished the 1st book and I can't wait to go out and get the next it is the BEST!

All you moms out there know how how fun that is taking care of a sick little one when you are just as sick!!

The best part of having a sick little one is cuddles and loves!! Makenna is always such a busy little thing that she never has time to sit and just cuddle. So Makeena and I have spent hours of rocking back and forth reading books and singing songs.

I just cherish every moment I spend with her. She is the sweetest thing ever!! Every time she leaves the room she turns and blows us kisses and say's "bye". LOL she makes us laugh everyday... never a dull moment at our house.

Makenna just found her 1st pet! We were outside playing a couple of days ago and she started stomping and saying "oooooh"! I ran over and she was chasing a little frog, well she was trying to stomp on it, our little tom-girl. So I caught it and we made a little home for it. She loved watching it hop around and she insisted that she sit right beside it ALL of the time. Well it was the highlight for the whole day until the next morning we went to go and check on it and sure enough it had escaped! Makenna was so confused, she just kept pointing inside the little frog house and shaking her head saying "where, where, where" LOL it was so cute but how do you explain to a little child that it is ALL GONE? She still looks for it every time we go outside, maybe it will come back to see us?

Hope your all having a GREAT week so far and enjoying this beautiful SUMMER weather!! I LOVE IT!! Chow till next time...

Things we can't control...

2008-09-09T14:50:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I got a telephone call that has now seemed to change my life and what I thought I had planned. I will not go into details as this is a part of my life that is so precious and sacred to me. I am what you would say an emotional wreak!! I am dealing with my emotions and trying to make decisions at the same time. My head and my heart are telling me two different things. My Heavenly Father continues to be my constant companion as he leads me through this. The comfort I feel as I pray to him confirms to me each day that he knows and loves me!! And that he understands my pain and suffering. I know that with his help I will be able to continue on and be the person that he wants me to be and become.

I just got finished reading an amazing book. I usually don't have time to read but it was a gift from my mom so I thought I better DO IT! The book is called "Emma" by Annita Stanfeild.

Shall I say AMAZING!! It is about the life of Emma and how she met Joseph and their lives together. This book made my cry and laugh. As my heart sobbed for Emma and for the many children she lost and lowered into the ground. All of the pain and suffering that she had to endure in her life with Joseph. But she still BELIEVED and had so much FAITH. As she peeled the Tar off of her sweet husband Joseph and how she held back the tears as his skin came off with it.... yes she STILL believed. How she carried all of her small children in the middle of winter to go to the promised land because that was what she was asked to do.... and to do it ALONE without her husband at her side!

What an amazing women!! She truly was an elect lady and was chosen by her Heavenly Father to be at Joseph's side.

Are we all chosen for a reason?? I seem to think and believe so. I know that our Heavenly Father has a plan for each of us. That things do happen for a reason. Even though during a trial we only hope that is true that there is a purpose to all things, that GOD has a PLAN for each of us.

I only wish that you amazing women will find the ELECT LADY in each of you!! We all need to be more like Emma and have FAITH and BELIEVE that all will BE WELL! That GOD loves each of us and that He has a hand in all things.

Word cannot express the deep love and admiration that I have for my Savior. He truly is my best friend and I cannot wait for the day that we are reunited.... to feel his loving arms around me and to finally hear his voice say my name.

Our little holiday...

2008-08-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

We just got home on Saturday from the lake (Echo). We were there for over a week. It sure was busy but FUN!! Joel's whole family was there, including his sister and her little girl from Victoria. The day's we full of good food.... LOT"S of food, laughter, loud games, boat time, surf time, SHOPPING, tanning and oh did I mention food?? I think I put on a good couple of pounds from the holiday. Makenna our "little monster" has grown up so fast this past month. She is talking up a storm her newest ones are "pa pa's boat, duck, buder (for buster the dog) and danks for Thanks!! She is also a busy little sign language girl... of course to make the mother-in-law happy!! We had such a great time!! I just love having such great family, even though it was time to depart we were ALL ready if you get my drift!!! =D

The Hogg's are so fun and well.... can a complain I have a FREE vacation to the lake when ever we want!!

We have been so blessed in our lives with people who love and care for us. Family is one of the greatest gifts anyone could ask for. As I look back on my life and reflect on the decisions I have made... I know that EVERYTHING happens for a reason and that my Heavenly Father loves me so much! I feel his love for me each day as I look into my sweet baby girls eyes and the gentle touch of a loving husband. The past has made me the person I am today and I would not change anything if I could!! I am so proud of where Joel and I are today... we could not have done it without the help of our Savior and his eternal love for us. I only look forward to the future and what lies ahead for my sweet family.

Sorry for the picture overload... I love pictures!!

Echo Lake with the Sloans...

2008-07-30T07:06:00.000-07:00

Joel and Makenna at the Duck Pond feeding the Ducks!!

Driving the boat with Uncle Kade... she loves it even though she can barley move in her life jacket!!
Makenna loves to pull her little wagon- everywhere!
The crazy duck from the duck pond that chased us... Tiff was not scared she just kept feeding it!

Makeena & Hunter Playing in the water and sand so nice together!!
Daddy & Makenna at the beach!

Our "Beach Gang"

On the weekend we had the Sloan Family at Echo Lake with us! It was a very eventful and fun weekend. The kiddos had so much fun playing together and us adult enjoyed each others company around the camp fire until the wee hours of the morning. **Tons of pictures of our great weekend- sorry they are a little out of order.... enjoy!!

Update...

2008-07-21T13:37:00.000-07:00

I know I have been such a slacker with the BLOG thing lately, Makenna has been super sick for the past week and I thought I was going to loose my mind.

No sleep and a crying baby really does something to your mind and body. Oh the things us women have to go through!!

We went up to our good friends Trevor and Tiffany Sloan's cabin a couple of weekends ago. We had a blast!! The boys of course had fun because they went bik'n while us women stayed back and chatted and watched the kids. When the boys got back we all went quading. It was so fun, Makenna LOVED it. She loved to point at the cows and all the other wildlife that we saw. We found a little bird that could not fly so we played with it for a bit the kids loved it. Tiff, don't hate me but I had to put up this picture of you.... you look so darn cute holding that little bird and Gunner!!

BOY'S AND THERE TOYS!!

Makenna had so much fun being outside ALL day.

Makenna sure LOVED this big truck.

Bumps, ponytails and flying through the air...

2008-07-07T11:58:00.000-07:00

Our Summer has been GREAT so far!!! Makenna loves the sun... like her mom and has to be outside every chance she gets. From the moment she gets up in the morning she goes hunting for her shoes and hat to get out in the sun!! She loves to eat fruit, watermelon is one of her favorites. Enjoy the pictures of our little monkey... sorry it seems that we only take pictures of her, I will post pictures of us at the lake as soon as I remember to take my camera with me! LOL
Cheese!!!
Now I should probably explain this one... Makenna LOVES it when daddy bunches up the covers and throws her through the air with a big soft landing. She giggles the whole time and wants to do it over and over again. It drives my crazy be she loves and it's THERE thing! Great action shot hey?
Sorry I forgot to rotate the picture, this Makenna and her 1st real big ouchy. She pulled a kitchen chair down on top of her and yep her little teeth went right through her lip! No stitches though, thank goodness but she sure is a bleeder.
Makenna's 1st real ponytail!!! What a big girl she loves looking in the mirror at herself and playing with her pony. She loves it most of course when I put her "BLING" bobbles in she loves the sparkles. =)

Back to the lake we go... It's about time!!

2008-06-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

YES, we are finally off to the lake this weekend!! Man us Hogg's sure love Echo lake... this warm weather we have been getting only makes us more excited for long days on the beach playing in the sand, tanning, an of course hanging out in the boat surfing and wakeboarding!! I thought I would share some pictures of us last year at the Lake. Makenna was only 4 months old, so she really had no idea what was going on- but this year she is going to be a little fish and I won't be able to take my eyes off her for a moment!! Enjoy the pictures, and I hope you all have a great weekend while we are at the LAKE!!

Makenna sleeping in her little tent on the beach.

Oh, and of course a picture of me surfing!!

I've been tagged....

2008-06-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

Tiffany tagged me and wow this really made me think.... well mostly because I could think of way more than 6 things!!!

Well here I go.... 6 UNSPACTACULAR QUIRKS ABOUT ME

1. I am a NEAT FREAK. I can't stand a mess. I know my house isn't always perfect with Makenna going into each room and making a mess, it drives me CRAZY!! I hate dirty dishes, an un-swept floor and of course a messy bed.... drives me CRAZY also-I'm with you on that Tiff.

2. I'm also a major ORGANIZE FREAK. I think it must come with my job but my mom says that I have always been that way from the beginning. There IS a place for everything and I always know where everything is... that is unless Joel moves it! I love labels and of course POST-IT notes... my office is covered in them, they keep me on my toes and busy! But most of all my day-timer I know it is a little geekie but I have to know what is planned for the day, week or month!

3. LOOKING GOOD.... I always said that once I had kids I would never be one of those moms that goes grocery shopping with her hair in a pony, no makeup and in sweat pants!! I think its important to still take pride in yourself and your looks. Having kids is HARD and there are days that yes cover-up may not be the answer but a good hot shower and yummy smelling lotion may just give you that little BOOST that YOU need and of course cute painted toe nails ta boot! LOL

4. PAINTED TOES... I love painted toes.... no matter what season I ALWAYS have my toes painted. I love having cute toes most of all because I LOVE open toe shoes, yes I ALSO have a SMALL addiction to shoes and purses- I LOVE THEM!!

5. FAKERS... Well most of all I can't stand FAKE people. Nothing bothers me more than people PRETENDING to be nice to you. You know those people - the ones they make you wonder what they REALLY think of you... why can't people just tell it how it is. But most of all people that think they are better than you. grrr yep these people really bug me! We are all equal and no one is perfect right??!! I think everyone should just be themselves and strive to see good in everyone and be the best that they can be no matter what!

6. PEENY CANDIES... I LOVE sweet little treats that you get from the gas station when traveling. Froggies, sour soothers, sweedish berries and so much more. Yep thats right I always load up on them when we are headed down to the lake and most always I have some in my car just to snack on. I know so HEALTHY hey! LOL I guess I just have a sweet tooth!

Well thats it in a nut shell my crazy self! I tag Angela my sister, Lynette my cousin and anyone else that wants to reveal their crazyness!!

But a cute monster at that!

2008-06-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

Makenna is just like her dad. She never sits still makes alot of noise and makes messes! She is so fun to have. Each day is an adventure at our house for sure!!

Our Little Monster....

2008-06-04T14:15:00.001-07:00

I cant keep Makenna inside the house when it's nice out, shoes or NO shoes!

She just learned how to go down the slide all by herself... she loves it!! Giggles all the way down.
And of course she loves the swing.
She was so tired after playing outside she fell asleep in her highchair. I had to take a picture.... she was snoring and just looked so cute!

Baking with mom...

2008-05-27T13:25:00.001-07:00

Makenna is such a little helper now! She has to do everything that I'm doing. We decided to make cupcakes for the neighbors today and she loved watching them in the oven, but she loved eating the icing even more of course!!

Birth Control...

2008-05-15T16:40:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm in Cardston staying at Angie's place (my sister) watching her 2 kids while she is in Mexico. She has 2 boys, a 2 year old and a 4 year old and I have my little 1 year old with me. It's fun.... but really tiring, I feel like all I do is change diapers and wipe noses all day! I guess that is what sisters are for right?! LOL

I know what your thinking... where the heck is Joel??? Yes he is gone to Rexburg, ID dirt biking with the boys!! YES He knows that he owes me big time now!!! I think a trip to Hawaii should make things better shouldn't it?

Even though I wish I was at Echo Lake this weekend surfing it up and wakeboarding and getting a tan! Instead I'm playing in the back yard with the kids making sure Blake (2 year old) does not squish Makenna- he likes to wrestle her down! We are headed out to my moms house today to ride horses and to jump through the sprinklers. Only 2 more sleeps, well If I got any sleep it will be time to head back to Lethbridge. Makenna does not sleep so well in her play pen and when she crys Blake is up so it has been some sleepless nights with a bunch of kids in my bed! Oh the joys... did I mention how great of birth control this is??? LOL

Hope everyone has a GREAT long weekend, and enjoy the sunshine!!!

My new trick...

2008-05-06T08:54:00.000-07:00

Joel watched Makenna one night while I was out, and I came home and he was so excited to show me what he taught Makenna. She can fold her arms... it is so cute she just knows that as soon as it's time to eat we fold our arms and she even puts her head down and try's really hard to keep her eyes shut, she usually gets to distracted by watching her food or us! She look so cute when she does it, probably because her little arms are so chubby! Man we sure treat our kids like pets don't we??

Makenna & her Treats...

2008-05-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

Makenna sure loves her treats... well they are a lifesaver at church!!

Yeah It's Friday....

2008-05-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

I think we all look forward to the weekends don't we? What is it about Friday that makes us all happy and excited? Well, perhaps it's the thought of maybe sleeping in or getting a babysitter and getting together with friends? Whatever it is that you're looking forward to... I hope it is great! I LOVE Friday and all that comes with the excitement of the weekend!! I hope you all have a GREAT weekend and enjoy it because it sure comes and goes sooo fast!!!

Little Cowgirl

2008-04-16T16:59:00.000-07:00

Makenna got new PINK cowgirl boots for her birthday from Grams and Gramps Reeder.

She walked pretty darn pigeon toed but she insisted on wearing them. It was adorable.

I will post more pictures later... my computer is being annoying. =(

Challenges overcome....

2008-04-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

Wow this past couple of weeks has been a real challenge! We have had a few scares with Makenna.... she had a reaction to her 1 year shots. We had to call the 911 one night because she was not breathing very well and going in and out of conciseness, I was soooo scared but I was trying to hold it in and be strong for Makenna. I hate the feeling of being helpless!!! All I could do was pray to my Heavenly Father for Makenna's safety and for his love and comfort. We then spent the next part of the day in the emergency room to get her checked out because her fever would not go down and she was just not being herself. But of course we got no answers just "the x-rays look fine so give her some Tylenol and just watch her close". Why is it when you need answer from the people that are "supposed" to know you don't get them??

Just yesterday after church Makenna was playing with her toys and fell and landed on her side and hit her head... it was not a big fall but I rushed over to her as she was doing the silent cry when nothing comes out. As I was rocking her in my arms her body went limp and she went blue. I shook her and called her by name... she came too right away but again I was scared. This has happened a few times to her and know one knows what is wrong? As these things have happened in my life it makes me Cherish the time that I spend with her. The feeling of losing her breaks my heart and makes my sooo sad. I keep saying I will never have anymore children because this has been so hard on me! These few moments that Makenna's life has gone from her has made me realize that she is the most precious thing to me. Last night she just could not sleep, except for in my arms. Oh how I Cherish moments like this... 3:00 am and so exhausted but smiling down at her as she sleeps so peacefully and thanking my Heavenly Father for blessing me with her in my life. As mothers all we want to do is keep our children safe from everything! Is this possible???

I am always sooo busy with work and life and forget about the most important things in life. Is it the paycheck? NO!! I now Cherish the times when I can be with my sweet family and feel of their love. I love playing on the floor with Makenna and most of all the family hugs and laughs that we share with each other.

So I decided to make a list of the things I love about Makenna and my Hubby:

I love it when Makenna:

- Fist wakes up in the morning. She always greets me with the biggest smile and reaches for me and gives me big hugs!!

- How her eyes light up when she sees me.

- Her smile...

- Her hugs and she has just learned how to do kisses.

- Her love for her daddy... she watches out the window for him to come home.

- Her sweet spirit.

- Watching her in the tub, she puts her face under and pops up with the biggest grin.

- Her curls.

-Her adorable chubby legs, arms and all the rest!

- Her beautiful eyes.

-Her sweet babbles to herself.

- Her innocence.

- Her love of the outdoors... she loves walks and the park.

- HER GIGGLES!!

- Oh, the list goes on and on!

The things I love about Joel:

- His smile.

- He is such a hard worker.

- His willingness to help others.

- The amazing father he is.

- We can never fight... he always makes me laugh, serious never a dull moment!!

- His love of life.

- His selflessness.

- He always tells me I'm the "hottest" wife.

- He loves me even though all of my imperfections.

- His love of the gospel.

- His Priesthood.

- And the list goes on and on!!

And to top it all off, conference was amazing!! The talks really inspired me to be a better member of the church, mother, companion, and servant of the Lord.

Thank you to all of you that have been wonderful examples to me in my life. I am soooo happy where I am in life... I'm HAPPY and BLESSED!

Birthday Girl

2008-04-05T10:49:00.001-07:00

Makenna loved the candles on her cake... we put more than just one because she loved them so much. Joel had to hold her back because she wanted to grab them. I think Joel was more excited than she was though.

Birthday Girl

2008-04-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

Makenna loved to eat her birthday cake... she was really good eating it by herself. We thought she would get really messy but she didn't.

Makenna's Birthday Party

2008-04-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

Makenna had been watching her presents all through her BBQ and as soon as she was finished she headed right to them. She loved to rip them open or pull out the tissue paper to find out what was inside. She was so thrilled with everything she received. She even opened the cards and pointed at the pictures as I read what is said to her. She is very spoiled ... and of course very loved by everyone that was there. We had a house full- over 3o people came to celebrate with her.

Makenna's 1st Birthday

2008-04-05T09:57:00.001-07:00

This is Makenna on her Birthday! She loves balloons so much! Sorry about the sideways picture I tried to remove it but it won't let me.

Swimming

2008-03-31T18:16:00.001-07:00

Well we had such a great Easter weekend in Kalispell. We went with my brother Reg and his girl-friend Ginnie. Makenna had such a blast swimming in the pool. We got her some new floaty toys and she did not want to get out! She is such a little fish. I'm looking forward to the lake the Summer but I think I will be chasing her around most the time!

Our Sweetie Pie

2008-03-19T08:57:00.000-07:00

Makenna Ray is almost a year old already!! We love and Cherish every moment that we spend with her. She brings so much joy and happiness into our lives and the lives of our families.

My Family

2008-03-19T08:53:00.000-07:00

This is our first family photo with our beautiful daughter Makenna Ray.