Lifestyles of the rich and not so famous

Christmas Day with the Rich's

2011-12-25T22:49:00.000-05:00

After Christmas at my parent's house, we hopped in the car and headed over to Coby's mom and dad's house. Honey and Poppy gave us our stockings and we had a fun time opening them. The kids especially!

I had fun holding that cute little chunkskin on my lap!

He is such a little cutie! He tried SO hard to crawl and reach that red bow.

Oh....ALLLLLMOOOOSSSST!

Jaden LOVES to build things! He had spent a while building this tower. He's quite the little architect.

After a couple hours of hanging out and eating and laughing and eating some more....we all went downstairs and played Marse's new Just Dance Game for the Wii. It was SOOOO fun!

I have to hand it to the Rich's they know how to throw a party and then know how to have fun!! It's always a treat to be with them and definitely NEVER a dull moment! LOVE these wacky Rich's and thank my lucky stars and my Heavenly Father every single day that I am a part of them!

Christmas Day with the Burtons

2011-12-25T22:39:00.000-05:00

After Christmas morning was over, we got dressed and went to church in my mom and dad's ward. Their ward had a Christmas program and my dad had a part in it. As usual he memorized the whole thing. And as usual, it was AWESOME!! My dad is a GREAT public speaker!

After church was over we headed back to their house where the boys couldn't WAIT to get their hands on MORE presents! You'd think that they'd be tired of unwrapping...but don't you worry....they apparently NEVER get tired of it!! Corb loved his Ninjago DS game from Nana and Mario Kart from Sommy.

Jaden LOVED this cute little fan soccer ball, along with his talking train accessories.

There's one of our happy little boys!

We gave my mom a book of our family throughout 2011.

But I think this is the face of one happy Poochie!! We all gave him a Go-Pro. He's always video taping things and loves to do anything athletic. For as long as I can remember he's been carrying a video camera around capturing lots of good/embarrassing stuff. Ask Sommer....once while on a trip we all got sick with the stomach flu. Amber tried to make it out the window...only she didn't quite make it...so she made a split second decision to just go on poor Sommer's face. YUCK-OLA!! But don't you worry, my dad was there to capture the moment!! :)

It was a pretty low key Christmas at my parent's house this year. My sister Sommer is living in Washington with her cute new husband and were unable to come out this Christmas. But I have to say that she is AWESOME when it comes to giving gifts. She and Drew made my mom, Amber and I a themed gift. They made this cute glass vase with a red rose in it...EXACTLY like the one in Beauty and the Beast and tickets for the three of us to go and see the play in SLC in March. SO fun! The only thing that could make it better is if she were able to come out and join us! :)

Amber's sweet "Papa" passed away a few days before from a horrible fight with Cancer and she flew back to Michigan to see him one last time. He was like a second dad to her and will surely be missed. But when I think about where he is and who he's getting to see, I can't help but smile. And I think he's the lucky one!

This was another GREAT Christmas with my side of the family. I sure do love them and love that we are such a close family.

Our Family Christmas

2011-12-25T17:30:00.000-05:00

Here are two EXCITED little boys anxious to get Christmas started.

Jaden was ready with his 3D glasses and his Hot Coco of course.

You can't really tell, but Jadesy was stoked about his new Train Table and train set. He LOVES trains! Every time we go to Gardner Village he wants to head to the toy shop with the wooden train table. It takes FOREVER to get him out of there.

He even got his very own TRAIN whistle!

Corb is an official UTE fan and LOVED his new and VERY warm hat.

Jaden has always loved things that light up or is it things with buttons??!! I guess it's both in this situation!

Don't worry, PUP wasn't forgotten. She got a HUGE puppy bone in her stocking.

Corb was so sweet. A few weeks ago, he and Coby had a Father/Son shopping day. He used all of his allowance money he'd been saving and bought us all Christmas presents. Here is one of the presents he got for me.

He bought a ring for me at school and wrapped it up in my original engagement box. I LOVED it! (As you can clearly tell from my buck-toothed smile)

Jaden found his Thomas the Train Big Wheel bike and kept saying...."Oooooh, it's a BIIIIIIG ONE!"

He liked "Dis one..." the big yellow fish on his rotating reef night light.

Then they helped me open my BIG present....the Ninja 1200!! Coby you are the BEST! I love it! Our blender finally broke after 8 years and I've been begging for another one ever since. I actually watched an infomercial all the way to Mexico for the Ninja 1100 Blender. To say that it's pretty awesome is the understatement of the century!! Thanks BABY!!

Here I am....IN LOVE!!!

Corb was LOVING his Hex Bugs. Coby got a little ramp for them to buzz around in and Corb couldn't wait to put it together.

Coby's been wanting some good headphones. So, with the help of his brother Pat and co-worker Randon, I was able to surprise him with the right ones. I think he liked them! I tried them on and they are actually pretty amazing!!

After all the present opening excitement...a Dr. Pepper was officially needed...For Coby anyway!

Then Jaden noticed a little something hiding under a comforter....

Santa was EXTRA creative this year...attached at the end of the balloon was a scroll with a message on it....

Santa led Corbin and Jaden on a little scavenger hunt. Here's the puzzle clues:

Corb used his good reading skills and was able to find all the locations of the hidden puzzle pieces...

Jaden also got into it and was excited to go running through the house after his big brother.

And here's what the puzzle looked like all put together.

Here's the conversation that occurred after they put the put the puzzle together:

Mom: Corb....wow...what is that??

Corb: uh...it's a ship. (very nonchalantly)

Dad: Do you know what that must mean?

Corb: We're going on a trip?

Mom: YAAAAAA....are you SUPER Excited???!!!

Corb: When? (again...very unexcited and nonchalantly)

Dad: in about a month

Corb: (rolls his eyes, throws his head back) a whole MONTH???!!!

Mom: Wow....I guess Santa was a little too nice this year...

This little boy WAS excited! He kept saying..."Trip...I go...." So cute!

But this girl was the happiest because she has the BEST family EVER!! This Christmas was awesome! It's funny because every year we say, "Wow...we overdid it...Next year we are doing WAY less!" I love my little family so much. I am so thankful for the reason for the season. I am thankful that because our Heavenly Father loved us so much He sent His Son. And because of that....Jack will be with us again along with our entire family. I believe it with all of my heart and I have Him to thank! I feel so blessed to be where I am. Glad that we have 3 years under our belt and are not at the beginning. It still doesn't make it better, but it makes it bareable. He is good. And I love Him with all of my heart. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T18:49:00.000-05:00

I have to say that I think this is my favorite picture of the season. I think it's such a tender moment between Jadesy and Poppy. Jaden loves being near Poppy. I love the little bond that they have created.

This year for New Years Eve...we were BUSY...to say the least! After a LONG morning of haircutting and numerous errands, we finally headed over to Coby's cousin's on his dad's side, the Readings. I absolutely LOVE the Rich side of the family. Always so low key and always a GREAT time!

As we were leaving the party, Coby spotted 8...yes 8 deer within feet of us in the Reading's backyard. Corb was especially stoked...he asked Coby to take his picture and wondered if these were in fact "Santa's" reindeer since there were 8!

After the party at the Readings we headed over to my cute cousin's house. I LOVE this girl and can never say enough about her. I LOVE that we're family and best of friends because we get to continue in all of the FUN all year round!

Here is me and my Coby.....I LOVE this guy! He's definitely the better half between us both!

We tried to capture a picture of all the luminaries surrounding our whole neighborhood...it didn't work out so well, but at least we left our garage door open for all the thieves to find!! :) Luckily, we weren't robbed this year!! :)

The boys were anxious to get to bed so that Santa would make his way over to our house. We got them all ready for bed and read the "Cajun Night Before Christmas". I'm from Louisiana...and HAVE to show off my southern roots! :) Corb was loving all the alligators instead of reindeer and the "cajun" accent that came with the story. They were both tucked in before 8:15pm, and that's when the real fun began for Coby and I. We have our own traditions too. We get "everything" ready for Christmas day while we watch White Christmas. I am loving our little family traditions and look forward to many many years to come.

Caroling with Mootz

2011-12-24T10:30:00.000-05:00

It's becoming a tradition to go to Mootzie's Care Center and sing Christmas Carols. She LOVES it. It's so great to see her happy face despite the fact that she no longer remembers any of us. It's really sad, but I'm so happy to see that Coby's family makes such efforts to continue to include her in the day to day routines. She's such an incredible lady. I wish that my kids would have known her the way Coby knew her. She was a Ball of energy and always the life of the party. I think it's quite amazing that while it's almost impossible speak, she always has a smile on her face. She's not a mean and grumpy lady like some others I have met. She has given us so much and we will forever be in her debt. We love you Mootz! Merry Christmas!

Christmas Adam with the Rich's

2011-12-23T18:48:00.000-05:00

Every year Joanne plans a little Rich Christmas Adam (the day before Christmas Eve).

She thinks of EVERYTHING!

Including a kids table. It's ALWAYS a huge hit!

After a delicious dinner, we act out the Birth of the Savior in Luke 2. Don't you love our little angels!!

Then she handed out actual bells and taught everyone to play "Jingle Bells."

Whit and Chance were WAY into it!

I think this little Angel may have lost her Bell...

Then we exchanged presents for all the cousins. Jaden got a fun Potty book. Can't wait to start reading it together. I'm not sure who was more excited...me or Jadesy!

Here's me and my schweetie

After a long night, Jadesy curled up in the Love Sac next to Corb so they could open their last present. It was really sweet.

Christmas Adam is always a day we all look forward to. Jim and Joanne put so much time and effort into making it so fun. Everyone has a blast and goes home fat and happy and full of joy! Thanks Momma Jo for making our Christmas Adam so fun. We love you and all you do to make our family so great!

16 Years in the making...GONE

2011-12-23T18:42:00.000-05:00

A few months ago, my cute friend Kellie gave me a gift certificate to get my hair cut. The last time I had my hair cut was when I was 16, and going into my senior year of High School. I went to Fantastic Sams...in JACKSON, MI and inadvertently made a HUGE mistake! I mistake that has taken me almost 16 years to get over!!

Here is the BEFORE picture....

And here is the During picture...

I was obviously too scared to pose...(now that's SCARED)

And there it is....9 inches of my blond locks...just sitting there....lonely all over the floor!

But after a little wash...

And a little stylin'....I was a happy girl!

Here's a shot of the back

And the front....

I love it! I didn't think I would...but truly I think it turned out great! I like it, Coby likes it and that's all I need! :) Thanks Kell....LOVE my cut! Thanks for being patient!! Can't believe I didn't do this sooner!!

Makin' Candy

2011-12-22T18:40:00.000-05:00

Today we decided to try our candy making skills out with all the Rich girls.

Here's Livvy in her very own apron

And Duncan in his...very cute!!

The kids were having fun twirling around in them.

It was pretty cute!

Marse was in charge of some sort of truffle..and Whit's always wanted to make homemade toffee.

Anna-Lisa was making sure our Carmels were PERFECT!

Here are our Candy making EXPERTS!!

We even used candy thermometers and everything.

Marse was going for firm balls...I mean firm ball

It took a while...but eventually she got the candy to the right temperature ...

...and her FIRM balls were ready!

SEE..... Marse your balls are PERFECT!!

It was so fun to get together with my cute sister in laws. We always laugh WAY too much, eat even MORE and have a ball!

Jack's Christmas Tree

2011-12-18T19:24:00.004-05:00

Every year for the past 4 Christmas' we've had the misfortune of decorating a little tree for our little Jack.

We always decorate it in different colors of Blue...to match his beautiful eyes.

Here are all our supportive decorators.

I keep hoping that every year decorating a little tree for our angel will get easier. It doesn't. It still hurts. It hurts almost as bad as the day we had to lay him to rest. I wish he were running around with his brothers instead of his brothers running around withOUT him through a cemetery around Christmas. I dislike that this has become our family tradition now. I really dislike knowing that the world hasn't stopped turning.

Today has been an especially hard day. I hope it's because he's nearby. Maybe he misses us as much as we miss him. At least he gets to look in on us. I wish I could look in on him. I wish I could see his eyes and not just in a picture. I wish I could feel his breath as he slept. I wish I were pulling my hair out because he talks too much, or because he is fighting with his brothers. I guess I'll never know those little annoyances I wish I were taking for granted at this point in our lives.

I miss him. I miss him so much that I don't want to do anything but stare at the wall. I keep myself so busy because it helps me mask just how much pain I'm actually in...every.single.day! It's hard...it's still so hard knowing he's really gone. I want to know why he had to leave...but that's just a road not worth going down. I have accepted the fact that he wasn't supposed to be here.

But it's Christmas. I want to see his face on Christmas morning as he's anxiously ripping through the wrapping paper to find his treasures. I'll never know what that will feel like with Jack. He was too little. Today I found myself trying to pull Jaden's head into my leg to see if he is the same size. He's not. Sometimes I just want to close my eyes and pretend that it's all a bad dream. And that if I close my eyes tight enough I might wake up from this nightmare and all will be as it should be.

Well, the reality is that things ARE as they should be. They are not the way I'd want them to be...but they are what they are and they are NOT, nor were they EVER in my control in the first place. Jack was merely on loan for a VERY SHORT 16 months and 3 days.

And for that I'm grateful. Grateful, for those short months. So, I'll close my eyes and be happy for the time I DID get with him. He was and still is one of the 4 greatest gifts I've ever received. I have been blessed and I know it. And more than that, I know God knows it.

Merry Christmas my sweet little blue-eyed boy. We miss you. We know you are near. We know you watch over us. We know you love us as we love you. Stay close...we still need you. We long to look into your eyes and kiss your sweet face. Someday....we'll have the desires of our hearts. Put in a good word for us so we can bring another brother or sister down. We've been trying without much luck. We're counting on you Jack. - Love mom.

Breakfast with Santa

2011-12-18T19:11:00.001-05:00

Every year Coby's mom and her siblings take turns hosting Breakfast with Santa. The "real" Santa comes over after breakfast and the kids get to have a little one on one time with him. It's so fun!

Here are the lovely ladies responsible for this awesome affair....Margaret, Jeanette, and Momma Jo.

And here's the guest of honor..."Santa" himself!! I think he's the real Santa!!

Here's Corb sitting on Santa's lap. He told us that he told Santa that he wanted a Nintendo 3DSI. Good Luck Santa...it would be a "shame" if you were "unable" to actually deliver on that wish!! :)

Jaden was a little unsure about the man in red that shook like a bowl full of jelly...so he hid in a pretty good spot....ostrich style. :)

But then he found Alison...aka the baby whisperer. I've mentioned before that he is absolutely head over heels for this girl! :)

Here is Honey and Poppy with Whitney and her little family. Good smiles on everyone!

And here are ALL the kids.

And here are all of the "older" kids.

We sure had a fun time having breakfast with Santa. Thanks for hosting and making it so magical. The kids are always in awe. Very fun!!

Coby's Work Christmas Party

2011-12-15T19:10:00.000-05:00

Coby's work Christmas party was tonight. With all the downsizing that occurred this past year, Coby took on the task of planning the company party. Luckily, his company is relatively small. He kept it simple. Go Karting at Fast Kart followed by a SUPER yummy dinner at the new restaurant Brio. Everything was a HIT!

We all got a few turns racing the go karts. It was SO fun...and actually harder than I thought. Pat, Coby's brother, ROCKED the house. He won for being the most AWESOME!!! :) And the fact that he was faster than anyone else after countless races.

Here's the whole group being a little crazy!

Nice work planning the party baby! You did a GREAT job. Everyone loved it. And I have to say that it was my favorite Christmas party so far!

Temple Square with the Stevenson's

2011-12-09T19:09:00.000-05:00

Coby and I were SUPER excited to to hang out with our good friends the Stevenson's. They were part of our little Lansing family while we lived in Michigan. It's always a treat when they come into town and we JUMP at any opportunity to see them.

They stayed at the Marriott downtown SLC. We bundled up and went to see the lights of Temple Square. Lance and Bettie brought these sweet little 3D glasses to see the lights with. The boys LOVED them. Especially Jaden!

Here are the Stevenson's sporting their super cool 3D specs.

Here is our little family in front of the reflection pond at Temple Square.

It was SO cold that after about 30 mins we headed up to the top of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building to get a better look and warm our frozen little falanges!

Jaden was loving the view! Coby and I were loving the company more!

We had a GREAT time and can't wait to see them again.

One sleepy little boy

2011-12-05T19:06:00.000-05:00

This little boy was sooo tired! A few months ago Coby and I came to the conclusion that Jaden was ready to give up his afternoon naps. SNIFF SNIFF!! He still needs a nap...but if he even gets in a power nap during the day he's up till 11pm!

While I was at my mom's house, this little stinker got into Aunt Ambie's makeup. To say that he got it ALL over himself is an understatement! My mom quickly threw his clothes in the washer and we found a little shirt of Ambie's to wear. I packed him up and headed home. On the way home he started dosing off. In an effort to keep him up I tried to stand him up.

He was so tired that he stayed asleep while he stood. His cute little knees would start to give out and he'd catch himself and stand back up. He must have kept this up for a good 5 mins. It was hilarious!! He did finally wake up. But I had myself a good little chuckle in the mean time.

Christmas Symbols with Honey

2011-12-03T20:56:00.001-05:00

Do you know the true meaning of Christmas?!! This year Honey sent out cute little invitations to every grandkid. They were super cute. Everyone was there except our little Dunkie Doodle and Jack of course.

She sat the kids down and proceeded to tell them all about the symbols of Christmas. The BELL.

The ANGEL

After she was finished, she brought them upstairs for a little Christmas Symbol lunch. A kids dream, complete with taquitos and cream soda.

Then they decorated Gingerbread cookies. "NOT THE GUM DROP BUTTONS....!"

Cobe was getting Jaden started.

Then the real decorating fun began...

And I think he got the hang of it pretty quick...

Lu Lu couldn't wait to eat the candy.

Livvy was loving the frosting.

Look at my little decorator....he's quite the PRO!!

Of eating the frosting or decorating...I'm not quite sure which!!

I thought Honey was so cute and sweet to put together this GREAT little Christmas Symbol party for the kids. They had a ball. I was surprised to see just how much the kids actually did know. I know I learned a few things.

Here's a little breakdown of the Symbols of Christmas:

The Star: A heavenly sign of prophecy fulfilled long, long ago- The shining hope of mankind.
The Color Red: The first color of Christmas, symbolizing that Savior's sacrifice for all.
The Fir Tree: Evergreen- the second color of Christmas shows everlasting light and life. The needles point up to heaven.
The Bell: Rings out to guide lost sheep back to the fold, signifying that all are precious in His eyes.
The Candle: A mirror of starlight, reflecting our thanks for the star of Bethlehem.
The Gift Bow: Tied as we should all be tied together in bonds of goodwill forever.
The Candy Cane: Represents the shape of the shepherd's crook, used to bring lost lambs back to the fold.
The Wreath: A symbol of the never ending eternal value of love… having no end.

Introducing....

2011-11-25T19:18:00.001-05:00

Meet the newest member of the Coby Rich household!! We just bought a 2011 Buick Enclave CXL. It seats 7, has captain's seats with black leather interior. It's so fancy I can hardly stand it!! More pictures to come!! I hope I can keep it clean...it's been a week and so far so good!!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T18:39:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!! This year we had Thanksgiving at Lanae and Jared's house. My cute Grandpa and newlyweds Sommie and Drew were even able to make it for the FEAST!

And a FEAST it WAS!!

SO much yummy food...where oh where do I begin??!!

After dinner, Aunt Sommie went and jumped on the trampoline with the boys.

Corb was LOVING it...maybe a little too much....!!

Jadesy was loving every second with her too. He kept saying, "Where Aunt Summy?"

He found my mom...or she found him...I'm not sure which. His hands were cold...so he figured out that they'd stay much warmer inside her SHIRT!! Is he all boy or what??!!

"Oh yaaaa"

Here's Lanae and her cute family with our Grandpa Burton.

Here's my Burton Family. I think if you squint you'll probably be able to see Jack and my Grandma Burton. They were both not one to pass up a feast like the one we had!! :)

Me and my girl Little...I mean Lanae!

Leave it to Lanae to have some sort of "craft" for the kids to create. Here's Drew and Sommy making little pinecone turkeys.

Aunt Ambie and Corb were chasing each other. By the look on his face...I think Amber caught him.

Me and Ambie.

Corb and Jordan found the wishbone.

Ready, Set...Pull....

And we have a winner folks!!

And by the end of the day...well....it wasn't pretty!!

I absolutely LOVE Thanksgiving. It's one of my favorite holidays and a time to reflect on the many, MANY blessings we have been so generously been given. I am so thankful for an AMAZING family. I'm thankful for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am thankful for a living Prophet. I am thankful for Temples on the Earth. I'm thankful for the knowledge of the plan of salvation and that I KNOW we'll be with Jack again. I'm happy to know that he's not really gone in the eternal scheme of things. I'm thankful that my best friend is sealed to me for eternity and that because of him we have 3 of the cutest kids ever born. I am thankful for my testimony. I am thankful for my health and the health of my loved ones. I am thankful that I've been able to get through 3 years without my sweet little Jack. I am thankful for so many things. My heart is full. I don't deserve all that I've been given, but I sure am grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Mexico with the Rich's 2011

2011-11-16T09:24:00.210-05:00

This year Jim and Joanne took all of us on a little trip to MEXICO!!! Tulum to be exact!

We stayed at the Gran Bahia Principe Tulum.

It was SO fun not to mention BEAUTIFUL and WARM!

Here is the Video that Pat put together about our trip. Great job Pat!

Mexico - The movie

Each day we had a new towel animal in our room.

And let's not forget the "locals". This little guy actually ate out of Coby's hand.

Sand Crabs...

And there was NO shortage of iguanas!!

Most mornings were started with a little Zumba.

Followed by some much needed Pool Time

Then we did what we know best....LOUNGED....

Drank the delicious strawberry daiquiris...virgin of course!

Whit and I couldn't GET enough sun!!

We took naps...

Listened to some tunes...

Knitted...

Snuggled...

Got in a few SMOOCHIES...

Went to the beach

Played in the sand...

Showed off our mad Sand Castle skills

And walaaa....here's their masterpiece!!

Here are the PROFESSIONALS responsible for that awesome Mayan Temple

On to beach volleyball

Ben and Whitters

Lance and Marse

Sara and Bobby enjoying the scenery

In the movie "Crazy Stupid Love" Ryan Gosling talks about his signature move...the "lift" from Dirty Dancing....we attempted to do our own

Honey and Poppy

Ben and Whit

Cobe and I

I started to get a little nervous....

And down I went!!!

Lance and Marse NAILED it!!!

And to the victors go the spoils...Nice one Lance!!

The boys went golfing. The course was AMAZING!!

What kind of trip would it be with Ben wasn't doing some sort of flip?!!

I'm pretty sure he landed it...in some form anyway.

This resort even had dolphins!!

Marse even got to swim with them....

And I think he liked her!!

The boys found this really cool place to snorkel about a mile down the beach. It was really great because it was totally secluded.

It was beautiful!!

Coby and I saw some really cool little fish. I love the really bright and colorful ones. There was one that was bright blue with shimmery spots. It was SO cool!

Then we found this old swing...not the most sturdy thing...but a GREAT picture spot non the less!

Ben and Whit were really liking it!

Coby was liking the trees.

And here we all are minus our cute little Sara.

We took a tour of Tulum. We were fortunate enough to get a tour from Nefi (one of the Mormon tour guides) Always interesting to listen to and gain a better understanding of different parts of the Book of Mormon.

Here is the ancient Tulum Temple.

The people must not have been very tall...
It was "tiff" sized!!

Tulum is seriously SO gorgeous!! I think it's one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen. The sand is soft and the water is super warm.

And here we all are at the end of the tour.

Me and my schweetie!

After Tulum, we went on a jungle tour of Zip-lining, Rappelling, and swimming in a Cenote. We got to ride about 45 mins through the jungle in this sweet old Indiana Jones Jeep! Corbin would have LOVED it!!

While driving through the jungle Whitney spotted a TRI-antula. (Tarantula) This is what she thought they were called...something about 3 sides?!! :) It was pretty funny!

Here we all are about to go Zip-Living.

I make this look GOOD!! :) hahahaa!!

Here's Marse showing off her cool hat AND her ginormous muscles!

Bob and Sara

Anna and Pat

Even Joanne participated. She's not only FUN, but quite the adventurer!!

After Zip-Lining, they took us to a huge Rock Wall. We climbed up it and then Rappelled back down the other side.

Did Ben fall all the way down and break his teeth out you ask? No...he's just cute like that!!

Here's Bobby...he's related to Ben! :)

And down we go...

Then it was off to snorkel in a Cenote. A Cenote is a deep natural pit, or sinkhole resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath.

While I LOVE the water...I've always been a little leery of things living in the water. Especially when it's dark. I would only swim in the well lit places. Poor Coby...he's a trooper and never complains when I won't attempt some of the coolest adventures. Maybe someday!

Each night we'd try to Skype with our little nuggets at home.

We'd all hang out after dinner and play games and laugh until our stomachs hurt!

Or we'd go exploring...

The rest of the time was spent....EATING....

EATING....

And MORE EATING....

Our last night we had dinner at the Japanese restaurant. They served/entertained us...Benihanna Style. It was SO cool!

Here's a shot of the delicousness we were were blessed to consume!!

Here's a shot of the girls

But this is the shot worth a thousand words! This is the shot that describes exactly how WE ALL felt about going to Mexico!!

Thanks Momma Jo and Poppy for taking us to Mexico. We had such a GREAT time. It was great to relax, hang out with everyone, make memories and laugh til our sides ached! We love you so much and feel so blessed to part of such an amazing family!

Thanks Mom for watching our nuggets. I know it wasn't easy with the kids being sick and having PINK eye on top of it all. Thanks for being such a trooper and an AWESOME Nana. My boys love you and so do we!!

Trick-or-Treating at Honey and Poppy's

2011-10-31T21:51:00.041-05:00

After Trick-or-Treating in our neighborhood, we always head to Honey and Poppy's house for more. They do their annual cider and donut station in lieu of candy. ALWAYS a hit!!

Here are some of the wacky adult costumes. Whitney is a fairy, Ben is...um...I'm not sure what Ben is here (Last night he made a "cereal killer" costume out of cereal boxes), I'm a cowgirl, Coby is Indiana Jones' dad, Marse and Lance are nerds. I have to hand it to the Riches...they are creative and always original!!

Here are the kidlings: Corb is Indiana, Mason is Batman, Luella is a Kitty, Jadesy is a chicken, Livvy is a Pumpkin, Sammi is a fairy and little Chance is a frog. Amelia isn't in this picture, but she was a cute little tiger.

For some reason I can't seem to get enough family pictures!!

Here are my boys...most of them anyway! If you squint really really hard...you might just be able to see a little blue-eyed angel on Coby's left.

Here's a shot of Jaden, Sammi and Corb after trick-or-treating in Honey and Poppy's neighborhood. It's always such a treat to live so close to family!

Trick-or-Treating with the fam

2011-10-31T19:50:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!!! We're all here...A cowgirl and her chicken, Indiana Jones and his dad and one cute little blue eyed angel in the background!

Ya...we're posers!!

Indiana Jones...don't you LOVE the scruff!

I love this little chicken!

One last family picture in front of the house

And then they were OFF...

In the words of Jaden: "Kikoo Teat."

Jaden definitely GOT the concept of getting as much candy as possible. Only, he had a slight problem with getting a little distracted at the door. He'd just LINGER at the door after he was given candy. Poor Corb, was anxious to get a wiggle on so he could get even MORE candy this year than last! But he was a trooper and such a GOOD big brother. He never complained...just patiently waited. I, on the other hand, would usually have to pick Jades up so we could hit the next house!

Every year there is one house in the neighborhood that goes ALL OUT...and I mean ALL out for Halloween. We call it the "scaaaaarrrry" house. Corb has LOVED it for years. When he was 3 years old, he used to make me drive by it just so he could look at it. His face would instantly get this look of sheer terror. His eyes would be as big as saucers. As soon as we passed it, he shout, "AGAIN!!" Jaden is NO exception. Like his brother, he loves it too!

Jaden wasn't phased in the slightest as we approached the house...not even when the CREEPY, bloody skeleton handed him candy. Jaden just kept looking at it like he could tell that the skeleton didn't look quite right. I tell ya, this kid is FEARLESS!

It was fun to go out this Halloween. The weather was crisp, but not cold. It's nice to be able to trick-or-treat in such a good neighborhood. But even in the midst of all the fun and excitement, I couldn't help but be reminded that I didn't have a 4 year old little dragon collecting candy with his brothers. I try to not let myself think about what's NOT there, but sometimes I can't help it. I miss him. There is NOTHING I wouldn't give to see that sweet little boy alive and well and growing up with his brothers. It breaks my heart that they will never know him on this Earth. Corbin is forgetting. Jaden never even had the opportunity. I look at other families at the same stage of life as ours, with all of their children and my heart sometimes skips a beat. Sometimes it occurs to me that most people have all of their children. Then I'm brought back to the reality that those families are the norm, and ours is not. It's hard. Sometimes, it's just plain awkward. But, it is what it is. There is nothing I can do to change the fact that Jack's gone. We will just have to keep moving forward. We will just have to treasure every second we do have with Corbin and Jaden. We'll remember Jack. He'll always be part of this family, even if the only visible proof now is behind the glass of a picture frame. We'll long for the day when all of our family will be together again. It will happen. And in the words of Elder Scott, "He's securing your place in Heaven." So, I'll put my faith in Him and remember that someday all of this will have been worth it.

Halloween at Honey and Poppy's

2011-10-30T09:48:00.062-05:00

I've got to hand it to Honey...she knows JUST how to throw a party. A FUN party! We all went over to Honey and Poppy's house for a Sunday Halloween Dinner Party. She made the YUMMIEST Broccoli Cheese soup in fun Pumpkin Bread bowls.

After dinner the kids got into their costumes. Honey put on some fun Halloween music and they all lined up and strutted their "stuff" for the 1st Annual Halloween Parade through the house. It was pretty cute!

After the Parade the kids all got to participate in a donut eating contest. Poppy had strategically placed string on the blades of the fan and attached glazed donuts at the ends. Then the fan was turned on and the kids had to chase the donuts using ONLY their mouths to try and get a donut.

Sammi was determined to get it...even if it was a little out of her reach... Mason had high hopes too!

Oh...Almost there....

...and he's GOT IT folks!!

Jaden didn't miss a beat either...although, I think he may have cheated a little! :)

What party would be complete without glow necklaces??!! Corb was having a ball pretending that he was a ninja with glowing numchucks.

Thanks Honey and Poppy for being so fun! We sure do love you guys!

Painting Pumpkins with Nana and Poochie

2011-10-29T21:50:00.058-05:00

Tonite the boys, along with Nana and Poochie, painted pumpkins.

Corb knew exactly what to do.

Jaden on the otherhand...

Is my "always need to be clean" child.

"Uhhhh...Mom....there's something on my hand...."

I think he gave up trying to be clean....since it's in his EAR!!

But then he got the hang of it.

And didn't want to stop.

Corb painted a sweet monkey.

Wah-la: here's Corb's finished masterpiece.

We had a fun night...a messy night...but a fun one as you can clearly see on Jaden's messy shirt! Thanks for bringing the paints Lady! The boys had a ball!

Halloween 1/2 Marathon

2011-10-29T13:31:00.057-05:00

Lanae has been asking me for 2 years to do the Provo Halloween 1/2 Marathon with her. I've always been able to find "some" excuse as to why I couldn't...but this year I could find NONE. She has always been such a trooper and not only happily, but immediately accepted every single race I've ever asked her do do. So, how could I turn her down again??!!

She was so excited that she went out and got us both Monarch butterfly wings, black and orange tights, and even made us the cutest little too toos!

Here is a full body shot of us decked out in our race "gear".

One thing we've learned from the previous races is to be the last ones on the bus. We get a little more sleep this way and don't get stuck at the top of the FREEZING mountain waiting to run our guts out!! This year we were prepared. We brought hand and feet warmers and since my back always KILLS after a long run I brought a Back Heat Wrap, Motrin 800 and a packet or two of Icy Hot and Hot Coco of course!! ***More pictures to come***

Here we are at mile 10. **My favorite mile by the way** I'm looking a little haggered...as usual....Lanae's looking STUNNING...as usual!

That finish line couldn't have come soon enough!! But here we are all done and with medals even!

We did it!! 3 Half Marathons together!

We even ran into an old "friend" from the Moab 1/2 Marathon...

This must be his "running" wig...

This was by far my FAVORITE 1/2 Marathon! And while I procrastinated AGAIN and didn't train like I should of....I got my best time: 2:26. That may be slow...but for me it was GREAT! About 30 minutes faster than the other two 1/2's. The course was SO beautiful. The downhill was only 3 miles or so and there was always something beautiful to see. I feel so blessed to live in such a beautiful place, healthy enough to run and in awe of the people that are in my life!

Thanks Little for being my partner in crime. I always have such a blast with her. I kept looking down at my watch to see how long we'd been running and was always surprised to see how FAST time was flying...despite all the side, back and knee aches. But when I'm with her it ALWAYS does!! Thanks Mom for watching my little nuggies. Thanks Ambie for braving the traffic and crowds and getting the race packet. I owe ya!! As soon as I can walk again...I'm looking forward to the next race we'll run together. I'm hoping that the next 1/2 will also include my cute little Sommy! I sure miss that girl!! And if I'm really lucky...maybe Ambie will join us as well! Here's to hopin'!

Lanae's Halloween Party

2011-10-28T13:07:00.076-05:00

Lanae held her 2nd annual Halloween Party today. It was DEFINITELY NOT a disappointment!!

Here is Indiana Jones and Batman

And here's my little chicken

Here is Mother Gothel from Rapunzel, a beautiful monarch butterfly and a cowgirl

(Natalie, Lanae, and me)

Here is the whole Rupunzel gang

(Natalie, Sakura, Chad and little Seth)

Little Chance, Whit and me

Here are a few pictures of all the fun Lanae had planned.

Hot Coco and Hot Cider Table

Bubbling Swamp Punch a-brewin'

Not one thing was left undecorated! A feat in and of itself in a yard THAT big!!

She even had wooden cutouts (that she did herself) to add to the ambiance. So cute!

And she definitely did NOT run out of a supply of pumpkins!

But the bounce house was a HUGE hit with the kids!!

Corbin...I mean, Indiana Jones, Jaden the fierce Chicken and Coltyn B. the tough football player wasted NO time getting their bounce on!

Up, up, up they went...

And down......

down, down, down....

Dowwwwwwn.....they went...

They couldn't get enough of it!!

This little chicken was always thirsty for MORE

Corbin and Coltyn found some "worms."

"long thin slimy ones...."

And down the hatch they go....

There was even airbrushed, glitter tatoos.

Corb went with a skull.

Meanwhile Jaden kept making his way to all the treats....and treats there were plenty!!

We can always count on Lanae for throwing one heck of a party! We all had such a GREAT time!

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-26T12:01:00.048-05:00

For our weekly playdate, Lanae and I, along with our little munchkins and Aunt Ambie headed to a little Pumpkin Patch.

These boys liked goofing around....

They wasted NO time finding the biggest pumpkin. It turned out to be a little heavier than they thought!!

This one was still heavy...but Corb showed me that he could do it ONE HANDED!! He's a tough one!!

Jaden just liked climbing up the haystacks. Aunt Ambie was there to catch him...just in case!!

Here's me and my Little!

Always a treat to get out and do something new with the kids. We were loving the sunshine despite the chilly wind. I'm SO not looking forward to the REALLY cold days I know are just around the corner!

Lunch in the Dryer

2011-10-25T13:03:00.010-05:00

I LOVE this little boy!! Today I made him a grilled cheese sandwich. He thought the best place for such a lunch was in the dryer. He just sat in there eating it til it was all gone. When he was finished he said, "Gank you Momma" handed me the plate and said, "All gone." Closed the door (not all the way) and said in the dryer, "Sheeya layder." He's original!! That's for sure!

Boise with Amy

2011-10-23T13:04:00.102-05:00

A few months ago my cute friend (former roommate) Amy decided to have a little girls trip. We figured Boise was about the biggest city 1/2 way and each drove the distance. We wished our cute friend Kirsten could have come...but she was busy having a cute little baby boy.

We thought we'd sleep in...but even though 9 am is usually sleeping in....after staying up after 2 am...9 hardly feels like enough sleep! But that didn't deter us from going on a little hike Amy had found.

It was an AWESOME hike. The top lead us to a GREAT view of Boise. Then it was off to lunch. We both had a hankering for some good Thai food. We tried the "Pad Thai House" It was SO GOOD!

And we KNEW it was a sign when the restaurant was located right next to a thrift store. Then it was off to finding every thrift store. A love of us both!

Are you LOVING the fun Boostias purse! I think Amy was!! Haaaa haaaaa!

We went into a Savers and Amy found a "friend."

I had to take a picture of him because as we were walking through a crowded area in Savers Amy leans over to me and says, "That kid just breathed on me." I laughed so hard at the way she told me I thought I may pee my pants a little. (I didn't...but it was funny) Then she showed me how he "breathed" on her. He literally breathed on her shoulder like you breathe into your hand to see if you had bad breath. Ewwww....Creepy! Only in Savers!! We hit so many GREAT thrift stores. It was AWESOME!

I have been listening to the book, "The Help" SUCH a great book! Later that night we decided to go see the movie "The Help". I loved it! I won't lie...it was a little hard to watch at times. I just don't know how anyone could treat another human being like that. I grew up in New Orleans, LA and distinctly remember being in 3rd grade at Woodland Elementary and seeing bathroom signs that said, "Boys", "Girls" and "Colored". They were never used...but still I can clearly remember seeing the signs. That was in 1986...not that long ago.

The next day we went to the Anne Frank Memorial. It was beautiful.

By turning the little crank, a recorded message would sound. Amy must have turned that crank for about 3 minutes before it would work!

Boise was BEAUTIFUL. The weather was PERFECT! The people of Boise were so nice! To say that it was a PERFECT weekend can't say it well enough! I had such a BALL with Amy this weekend. I am so happy that we have remained such good friends over the years. She's one in a million.

A note from Corb

2011-10-21T13:02:00.001-05:00

At 5am this morning Corbin thought he needed to crawl in bed with Coby and I. Since it was so early and Coby and I weren't thinking too clearly we told him he could. Then a few minutes later the other little nugget decided that he also need to join us. To say that we were a little squished in a queen sized bed was an understatement. Coby left for the gym a little later leaving the rest of us snug as a bug. About 7 am Corbin decided that it was "Good Morning Time" and wanted Jaden and I to wake up. He tried everything from tickling Jaden to turning the TV on. Corbin is pretty self sufficient. He knows how to get his own breakfast and turn on Curious George downstairs. Jaden on the other hand....i's a handful!! I knew that if Jaden woke up...that was the end of that warm cozy bed. SO...I snapped at Corbin to get out of our room, go downstairs and that he had just sealed the fate of getting NO allowance. Apparently he was not terribly happy with me:

He wrote me this sticky note and left it on our door: "I do not like you Mom.

Dear Mom"

Coby came home from the gym and found it. He thought it said, "I do not like you mom. Die Mom."

Coby went downstairs and ask Corbin about his little "love" note.

Corb corrected by saying, "What? It says, "Dear Mom, I do not like you mom."" And with that crumbled up the note. I came downstairs after Coby had told me about it told Corbin that I got his little "note."

To my amusement he said, "Um...that was a different mom."

"Lick in the box. I love you mom. Dr. Mom"

Translation: "Dear Mom, Look in the box. I love you Mom."

After I got home from my girl's trip to Boise I found this little note on top of a little present he had put together for me.

OH how I love this little boy!! He truly is a sweet little boy. Even when he's mad at me.

Jadesy Boy

2011-10-17T13:39:00.094-05:00

He still folds his hands under his neck when he prays

Jaden loves to watch Rio or "Kim-ma-mal Me" (Despicable Me)

He can watch them both about 12 times each per day!

He loves to tell you, "I DID it!!"

He likes to tell us to "Lay down" when we're putting him to bed

He likes to jump on the ottoman and say, "Jump, Jump Jump."

He likes soda...sadly...I know....

He thinks that all dark colored soda is "Diet Coke."

He loves to say "ah-ee-oh-oh, ah-ee-oh-oh"

He finishes my song, "I love Jaden..." with "Jaden is my baby." with a HUGE grin.

He calls his dad: Daddy, DaDa, TOBY, and my favorite...HUN!

He calls me: Mommy or Tiffffff

He calls Corbin: Bobbil

He loves to give hugs and kisses especially when he's saying goodbye.

He doesn't like to go to bed and typically says, "No nigh nigh"

He no longer sleeps in a crib and has moved to the bottom bunk in Corb's room.

His favorite book is "Goodnight Moon."

He makes me tell it too him at least 2 times every single night as he's going to bed.

He likes to tell you that he's sleeping in "Bobbil's bed" at night.

He wants "protein" for breakfast...lunch and dinner. (Carnation Instant Breakfast)

He lights up when he's with his Nana, Poochie, Honey or Poppy.

He loves girls.

He loves cheese.

He loves to brush his teeth.

He loves Jesus and says his name like this: "Geedis"

He loves to go to church and asks everyday, "Go church?"

He still LOVES his blankets and calls them "blankies"

He is quick to pick up on things we're talking about and often repeats the "key" word of the sentence.

He can let pup out and will do it if we ask him.

He likes to tell us "I Tinky" (I'm stinky) even if he's not just to get us to check...then laughs about it.

He thinks farting is funny and tries to do it as often as possible, followed by "Ewwwww."

He always says, "Gank you."

He says "Daddy fixed it?" every time we try to skype or watch the apple tv.

I loves "Chockit"(chocolate)

He loves to pick his nose and grossly enough give it to you.

Loves Corbin to death, but is easily irritated by him.

He likes wearing his shoes and will often bring them to you and say, "Shoes on?"

He sings the song, "popular" from wicked every time my phone rings.

He also sings the song "Hello...Hello" from Primary...courtesy of my mom.

My dad taught him to say, "OH YAAA" every time he gives someone a big kiss.

If you get an owie he says, "Owie? I kiss it."

He likes to eat "zuna" tuna salad for lunch with me.

He can count to ten.

He knows when we're on our way to Nana's or Honey's house.

When we're heading home he says, "No home."

He can point out most pictures and tell you who they are.

He's still a snuggler.

He says, "He ya go." (Here ya go)

He loves to help me make and drink my smoothies every morning.

He loves to say "Gym" and then freaks out when we actually get there.

He doesn't sit through movies at the theater.

He loves to throw things.

He says, "Hode jew" (hold you) when he wants us to pick him up and hold him.

After he gets done drinking he says "ahhhhh"

He loves to sing...randomness...hmmm...he IS my son!

He loves balls still.

He loves jumping on trampolines.

He eats out the frosting in Oreo cookies.

He loves pushing his lawnmower still.

He has a short fuse.

He's a pretty good sleeper still.

On average he sleeps 2-3 hours during the day and 10 hours at night.

He loves to help me clean.

He still loves cleaning the toilet.

He thinks we need to take turns while I'm vacuuming by saying, "My turn..."

When he's mad he'll deliberately hit you with this stone cold face as if saying..."That's right and I'll do it again!"

He loves to play with older girls (like Corbin or Jack's would be age...6 and 4)

He loves to eat cinnamon toast

He can point out my Grandma Burton and tell you who she is.

He knows exactly who Jack is.

He knows "Gampaw Birden" (Grandpa Burton)

He is clean and will pick up after himself without having to be told...occasionally!

He's very sensitive if you discipline or give a little spank. He'll cry like you've just beat him!

He loves to tell you "Iz broken." (anything that's not working that second.)

He loves to "Wing" (Swing)

If he sees you eating something he says, "I won summ."(I want some)

But my favorite thing that he does reminds me MOST of my little Jack. When I was nursing Jack, he used to look up at me and gently take his hand and place it on my face. The picture above is as close as I could find. He was always so thoughtful, loving and sweet. I lay down with Jaden most nights and during his naps. As he's getting tired, I'll catch him staring so sweetly as he's watching me "sleep" and he'll put his little hand on my face and almost pet my cheek. He doesn't know I can see him and that's what makes it all the more sweet and Jack-like.

Oh, I love my boys!! All three of them!

New YORK and Atantic City

2011-10-13T13:40:00.048-05:00

Coby was kind enough to take me on a little trip to New York. He had business, so decided to kill two birds with one stone...have a little adventure with me. I know...I'm pretty lucky!! Tiana Secore would even say SPOILED!!

After a long flight and a CRAZY taxi ride into the city we finally had dinner at Bubba Gump's. SO good! The Maui Maui was to die for!! I highly recommend it!

After dinner we did a little sight seeing. The Toys R Us store was practically calling our names.

And then Coby noticed the Barbie Dream house...and how could I pass up a "barbie" pose inside it??!! Funny thing...Coby was the one who had to coach me on how a barbie poses. After a few shots...I think I nailed it!

Back to the room to freshen up and back out on the town to have dessert with our friends Geoff and Rose Hemmingway.

I love this city!!

Here is Coby, Me, Rose and Geoff. I know it's not the best picture of us...but when someone else takes your picture...you get what you get and you don't pitch a fit right?!! Geoff had just given us a tour of the Hirschfeld Theater. Rose is staring in the broadway play, "How to Succeed at Business Without Really Trying." Rose plays the leading lady Rosemary, opposite Daniel Radcliffe. We got to see her dressing room and hang out for a few minutes before getting dessert. It was REALLY fun! Wish we could have met Daniel...but he wasn't out by the time we were leaving.

The next morning Coby and I got to the Hirschfeld Theater early to get rush tickets to the show "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying." There she is in the pink!

We tried to take pictures inside the theater...but camera phones don't seem to be the best type of camera for the job.

The play was AMAZING! It was so fun and lively. The music was jazzy (my favorite) and the cast was AWESOME to say the least!

Then had to hit the road to Atlantic City for another conference for Coby for work. This is the best picture we could get. I don't want to sound ungrateful...because it was way fun...but Atlantic City is sort of bad remake of Vegas. It's sort of like the Armpit of Vegas! Kind of dirty...they nickle and dime you for everything and was pretty empty. I guess I'm just used to the excitement of Vegas! They know what they are doing in that town! And while there is a lot of bad things going on all over the place...it's certainly a "bright" adventure to be had!

Thanks for taking me babe! You are the BEST husband in the world!! I love ya more than anything! Thanks mom for watching our little nuggies. You are so amazing and I thank Heavenly Father every single day that I have you in my life!

Fall General Conference 2011

2011-10-02T12:32:00.014-05:00

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I am VERY privileged to hear a living Prophet, Apostles and other leaders of the church speak words of wisdom and divine revelation twice a year.

Here is a shot of our sweet Prophet, President Monson and his 1st Counselor, Elder Uchtdorf. I absolutely adore these men for their integrity, the love of the Lord and our brother Jesus Christ and for their incredible testimonies.

Every Sunday morning session of General Conference we head over to Coby's parent's house for a little Conference breakfast. Momma Jo did NOT dissapoint! She made the BEST french toast with all the fixin's! The french toast tasted like a yummy churro. To quote Ben, "It was Churrrrific"!

We all eat then watch our sweet prophet and other leaders of the church speak. The kids start off pretty good. I.E. Livvy is nicely sitting with her Poppy.

Honey provides Conference "bingo" for the older kids.

Corbin, Sammi and Mason were GREAT at listening to Conference and even greater at putting their candy corns down on the paper...and in their mouths too!

The smaller kids were AWESOME at finding things to do....

I'm not sure...but I think she may be up to something....!

While the rest of us watched and were humbled at the messages received.

Chance tried his best to stay awake...but he was way too cozy on his beautiful momma to keep his eyes open.

Pat had a hard previous night with his little Amelia...so I think he was listening with his eyes closed....

And poor Poppy...he was plum tuckered out!

I have really loved General Conference! I have loved every talk and every speaker. Each one wispered words of inspiration to my hungry soul. I have not always loved General Conference, sadly. There was a time that I thought of it as a vacation from church twice a year that I got to lounge around in my jammies and sleep in between speakers...and if I'm being honest...during MOST of the speakers.

But now General Conference means more to me than anything. Jack died almost 2 weeks before General Conference in the fall of 2008. I have never longed to hear the words of our Prophet and others more than I did that painful fall. I felt like the speakers were so inspired by the things they said that entire session. My heart longed more than anything to hold my sweet baby boy. My heart was so heavy and I was so weak. But by the end of the Conference, I felt renewed hope and faith. I KNEW that I would see my sweet baby again. I WILL hold him again. I knew of a surety that we were an eternal family. And that more than anything I could survive. I knew it wouldn't be easy and it would be NOTHING I'd choose...but I knew there was purpose in the Lord calling our beautiful, sweet blue eyed baby boy home earlier than Coby and I had planned.

This year I leave humbled at the messages of true and divine inspiration spoken. I know God lives. I know He loves me. I know I'll be with Jack again. I love this gospel. I love the spirit that is in my home. I am thankful and in awe every single day that I have Coby to kiss goodnight each night. I love my family. I love the testimony I have gained through going (still going through) such a horrendous trial. I love Him for loving me enough to cut me back. The Gospel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is true. I know it. I feel it with every breath that I take. I know Jack visits often and I can't begin to tell you how blessed I feel because of that. I may not have the life I planned on initially, but I am happy with the life He has entrusted to me. I know that through Him, all things are possible. And that as I try my best, and although I'm FAR from perfect, I know that through HIM I can be made perfect. And all I have to do is give it my all. I love Him. I know He lives and loves me perfectly, is my testimony in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.

A trip to the Zoo

2011-09-28T13:37:00.018-05:00

Lanae and I had to change our usual Friday playdate with each other...I mean the kids....to Wednesdays. Austin had a fieldtrip at his preschool at the Zoo and invited Jadesy an I to tag along. Lucky for me, Whit's little Mason is in the same class so I got to spend time with two of my favorite people! :)

I had to get a picture of the Lynx. Afterall, Corb is a Longview LYNX!

Jaden liked the tiger and was getting kick out of seeing the wall of water and not actually getting wet.

A quick pose with a HUGE gorilla.

Jaden's favorite movie lately is RIO. He loves to sing the song, "Riiiiiiio....Riiiiiiio...". Today was no exception, he sang his little heart out to the Macaws. I think they liked it...

Then they found the forever spinning water ball. And who can pass that up???!!

Not this boy!!

FHE Hikes with the Riches

2011-09-26T11:18:00.013-05:00

In an effort to spend time together as a family and enjoy the beautiful Utah mountains (before they get too cold), we thought it would be fun to go hiking as a family. It started out as just a Rich family hike for FHE one Monday night...that has become our weekly FHE Monday Night Hike.

The first hike we went on was to Ferguson Canyon in Big Cottonwood Canyon. As you can see...it was quite breathtaking!!

Honey with most of her little grand-critters.

Corb is our little dare devil and always willing to show his cousins his mad climbing skills!

Jaden was loving playing with his cousins.

Here's me and my girl Whit. Chance was a trooper despite his want of a nap.

Lance, Livvy, and Marse. This little girl cracks me up! She LOVES to sit on your hip while holding her. Her legs just gravitate to your hips then she digs her heels in to get a good handle on holding on! It's soooo cute! I love that little squish!!

Ben's shoulders must have hurt by this point...but just look...he's still going strong!! I'm not sure who looks more tired Lu Bear or Ben??!!

And down we go....

Livvy kept wanting to show everyone that she was a big girl and could not walk it...but keep up as well!

Here's Moses...I mean BEN after the hike was over.

BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Wow...I have no words for this one!! It does remind me of Jack though!

Our next hike was Doughnut Falls

Just Beautiful!

When they got back we decided that in light of the hike being called Doughut Falls...Donuts were DEFINITELY in order!! Yummo!

The next hike was at a park called Tanner Park...and as you can see from the sign...it's FOR CHILDREN!! We had a picnic dinner and then headed out.

I love this picture of Anna-Lisa and baby Amelia.

Jadesy didn't get a nap today...so he was especially...um...what's the word...OH YA...GRUMPY!

But after getting a sucker...he was a pretty happy boy!

I have REALLY been LOVING our Monday Night FHE hikes. I'm sad that they have either come to an end...or are coming to an end. The kids have loved it! It's been so fun to hang out with most of Coby's extended family. I'm hoping to be able to get in at least ONE more little hike before we officially call it quits.

The Dirty Dash

2011-09-24T13:36:00.068-05:00

A few SKIDMARKS...PRE-mud!

Lanae and I showing off our wicked hot skidmark tatoos.

BEFORE.....the race....

When my cute friend Kellie asked me if I wanted to do the Dirty Dash this year...I almost said NO! (***NOTE*** at the end of the post) Am I EVER glad that I didn't! This race turned out to be the BEST, MOST FUN, AMAZING, not to mention DIRTIEST race EVER!! Don't let my stunningly beautiful cousin fool you...she really is the complete package...Looks, Smarts, and LOADS of FUN! She got her husband to dress up and they both wore wigs for the race. Jared (Lanae's husband) was a trooper. His mullet wig made me laugh EVERY.SINGLE.TIME. I looked at him!!

Kellie was kind enough to put together a team. We were the SKIDMARKS. We all started the race together...but somewhere we lost track of everyone. Lanae, Jared and Coby and I stuck together.
Coby was AWESOME! He wore a Go-Pro attached to his head the whole time so we could capture our AWESOMENESS on camera!

A couple times in the midst of falling in the MUD every other step...Lanae would lose sight of Jared...but don't worry she had a special name for him. She'd just start sweetly yelling out, "Muuuuuulllllet" (Mullet) and without even a second's hesitation Jared would answer her. It was so funny! Then of course Lanae and I would be laughing so hard that we'd fall down in the mud.

We decided last minute to do the 10K. It was SO fun! Way more obstacles...way more mud!! Here we all are at in the river...trying to clean up a little bit! I'm not sure why we bothered!

Here's me in ALL my glory and looking mighty FINE after the race was over.

Me and my super amazing Coby.

Since we lost the rest of the Skidmarks....here is our fearsome foursome...MULLET...aka Jared, Lanae, Me and Cobe.

Here we are again...only I wanted to show just how dirty some of us got!!

If you look closely...you can see Coby and I raising our arms.

This race was SO fun I'd do it every weekend if I could! Thanks Kellie for putting it all together. And Thanks MOM you are the best for watching our little nuggets all day. Next year I want more of the people I LOVE to do it with us! SO FUN! My dad, sister and Drew, Uncle Bob, Ambie, Ben and Whit, all the Rich's for that matter...and this time...we'll figure out the best way to stay together!

***NOTE*** Whit did ask me if I'd run it and I did say NO...but forgot about that when I said yes to Kellie. So don't kill me Whitters...I'll make it up to you next year!!

Final thoughts and memories of Jack from Aunt Sommie

2011-09-23T10:30:00.002-05:00

I should have posted this a long time ago! When Jack passed away I asked many people to write down their memories of my sweet little Jack. My sister was fortunate enough to have spent a lot of time with him. Here are some of her memories. I treasure them.

where do i start. There are so many that I hope I can put them all down.

Jackson and Corbin brushing Jasmine's fur with your toothbrush (with toothpaste on it - i believe) - so sorry about that! It is a little funny though.

Me putting little Jackie to bed that same night. He was so sweet. I kissed the top of his head and then his nose because I loved kissing him there. Corbin kissed him on the top of his head and said "Love you Jack" Then I put him in his crib. The next morning I got a call from Tiff that said, "you didnt want to wash the toothpaste out of his hair before he went to bed." Apparently there was a lot of it. It was all matted down in his hair. How did I miss that!

Jackie loved Jasmine. Although, I dont think Jasmine felt the love. Jackie loved to sit on her. Jasmine would growl but not move. I would go pull Jackie off and put him far away. Two seconds later I would hear that growl again. So I would pull Jackie off again and play with for a bit. Jackie would wonder off. Next thing I knew I saw Jasmine snip at Jackie. I think what happened was that Jack was poking her in the eye. Jack loved to do that as well.

I loved coming to visit and seeing my boys. If Jack was sleeping I couldnt wait to get him. I would ask if i could go wake him up. Tiff would say no of course. Corbin and I would go check several times to see if he was awake. I loved seeing his little head pop up. Then with his empty bottle still in his mouth he would smile so big and reach out to me with the one hand that was free. I would pick him up and kiss him all over. Then he would grunt and point to his humidifier to press the button to turn it off. I would bring him downstairs and he would get an even bigger grin when he would see his mommy.

I remember before we left for Bear Lake he was walking around with a bag of pretzels.
I remember one time he and Corbin were playing with the fan. They kept talking into it. They actually were kind of fighting about it. Jack kept unplugging it while Corbin was talking into it or visa-versa. He would get mad and cry and look right at you as if to say "hello don't you notice I am crying!"

They had a sippy cup over by the fan. Apparently it was leaking a little. Jack pulled a towel off of the stove and walked over to the fan (which was over by the sliding glass door) and started wiping it up. Oh it was adorable. That little boy loved to clean.

Jackie loved to eat we all know! But he liked to use those teeth for other things other than chewing. Several times when I would be holding Jack he would bite my neck. I would say "ow don't bite." He would throw back his smile and laugh my favorite laugh in the world and then do it again. We would repeat this process over and over again. But what can you expect for a doodle.

When Coby was on business trips I would spend the night. I would sleep with Tiffany in their bed. So she would nurse him in the middle of the night. I think sounds are amplified when you are sleeping. I dont know if it is because everything is so queit. But that baby was so loud! He was the loudest piglet! It drove me insane. One night, I said to Tiff that he was like the fat little dalmation on 101 Dalmations. I said in his little language (crying) he was saying, "I'm hungry mommy. I'm really really hungry!"

I loved holding my little Jackie and he would dip back and I would nibble on his belly! He would laugh! Then he come back up and we would do it again and again.

I remember when he was just a little baby he had to be rocked to sleep. And not just sitting down rocked you had to stand up and walk around bouncing as you went and making a "Shooshing" sound. He would eventually fall asleep with his chubby little cheeks just drooping toward the ground. Oooh, he got heavy! Then when I finally got to put him down in his crib it had to be ever so careful whispering the shooshing sound in his ear for a litle bit until he was sound asleep. Then I would go and cuddle watching Woody for the 3rd time in a row that night. Those were priceless nights.

I remember giving him and corbin baths. He would do everything corbin would do. He loved to stand up. I would say no, sit down. then he would stand up again. We would repeat this process until he would get side tracked. They loved to play with the shower head that came down. He also as we all know loved to play with his weiner. No suprise there.

I remember one time Corbin did a couple of circles and then hit Jack with a stuffed dog. Jack fell off the couch and did a couple of rolls on the floor. He got up with that big smile and threw his head back and laughed like that was the time of his life.

Jack when he was a baby loved to be thrown up in the air. I would say, "Ready, Ready." He would smile so big and laugh. I would dip him down and then throw him up. He loved that game.

I remember when he first learned to walk it was hard to change his diaper. I would get the old off of him and then before i would know it he was off. I never was good at putting his diapers on him while he was standing up.

We all know that Jack had a little bit of a weight problem. but I loved telling tiff whenever we talking about how much we loved him i would say, "I mean he is just so small" and then Tiff would come back and say," Yes, very small. Dainty!" He was our small, dainty doodle!
I can still see Tiff saying "Doodle" in her fun little voice. He would laugh and laugh. He loved his mommy so much.

He loved it when Coby would come home. He would reach out to him. Then like a good father and husband he would change the boys diapers.

Man, he is the fastest diaper changer ever!

I remember when jackie was just a little baby and he was just strickly on tiff's milk. We went to IHop and tiff gave him a little bit of whip cream. Oh he couldnt get enough of it. It made him so happy. He made his little grunt and pointed to get more. We put a little on our finger and put it in his mouth and he would suck so hard as if it was going to come out of our finger. I was worried that he wouldnt take to tiff's milk anymore. Oh but don't worry about that!

I remember shortly after you brought him home from the hospital falling asleep so many times with him on my chest. Oh i loved that. How I will cherish those memories.

He loved going to the park. He loved going down the slide and the swing with corbin. One time we went and the swings were wound all the way up to the top. Corbin wanted to swing but he wouldnt go without his brother. So I shimmied my way up the the top and unwound them. The boys had so much fun. Jack would giggle everytime I would push him. When Corbin was done, suprise suprise so was Jack.

Jack loved to get in the fridge. He loved to pull out everything he could. One time he pulled out the eggs. That was a mess. I thought it was funny...others did not. Haha!

He loved playing with my watch or my bracelets. I still cant find one of them. He would get my watch in knots. I had no idea how he did it because it would take me forever to figure out how to get out.

I loved it when we were in the car and I would look back and he would smile and laugh. We would repeat that process over and over again.

I have so many memories! I ache to hold my little boy! or to hear his little laugh or grunt! or to see his smile! or to nibble his tummy! But I will cherish these memories! I am so grateful that I am such a big part of your lives! Thank you for letting me be! As I remember little memories I will email them to you! I want them recorded! I don't want to ever forget them! Love you with all of my heart!

Love
Sommie

Jaden get his first Professional Haircut

2011-09-18T14:13:00.000-05:00

Jaden got his first official professional haircut. I usually take the boys to cookie cutters...but since he was with his daddy...he HAD to be like his daddy and go to Sport Clips to get the job done right!!

He was SO good! He just sat there like a perfect little boy!

No crying. No whining. Cooperation ONLY!!

And here's the final cut! We still left his "wings". As you can see from the sucker that they give you AFTER the haircut...he's one happy little monkey!

Bear Lake with the Siebenbergs

2011-09-17T10:36:00.044-05:00

It's no secret that I LOVE spending time with my cute friend Camille and her sweet family. We try to find a weekend that works with everyone's schedules and have them up to Bear Lake for the weekend. It was totally spur of the moment...but it worked out and we were able to have a great visit...and I was able to soak up Camille for a whole weekend!! :)

It was a chilly weekend...but don't worry...the kids didn't mind!

Sam even tested the water just to make sure it wasn't as cold as we told them it was.

Here's Kenna getting the right amount of sand for her sand castle.

And back and forth they went....

Corb was just loving the sun...

Meanwhile...we were freezing!! Actually, it was nice when the sun was on us...but the second it went behind the clouds....burrrrrrr!

Trey even liked it!

And obviously...so did I!!

Here's my mighty warrior boy!!

Later that night we went to watch the U vs BYU game at a house that Lanae and Jared had rented down the street. It was an AWESOME house!! And the company was even more more awesome!!

This was the least blurry picture I could find with Cam, Emily, Lanae and myself. Being with these girls is better than having a Diet Coke IV hooked up on a permanent basis!! :) Maybe that was a bad analogy...but if you know me...you know my love of DC!! :)

Here's me and my schweeetie!!

And here's a shot of all the chaos!! :)

Jaden wasted NO time getting to know the GIRLS!!

And what would a trip to Bear Lake be without a good old fashioned campfire complete with s'mores??!!

Corb was trying to show off his "mad" s'more skills....Kenna may have been a little worried!!

Sam was an EXPERT s'more maker!!

And Jaden was an expert SMORE eater!!

And don't even ask me (sarcastically) where on earth he gets his "cheesiness" from!! :)

There's my LOVE!

Brett and Cam

Most of the Siebenberg gang...one little tired munchkin had already checked out for the night.

And last but not least...me and my Cam!

I just love this girl! It was such a treat to have them come up and hang out with us. Everything was so low key and chill. It's always nice to feel completely at home with good friends at the Lake. Thanks for coming with us! We had a ball!

Some Days...

2011-09-15T17:39:00.001-05:00

Some days are just harder than others. Today is one of those days. I miss him. Oh how I miss him.

September 11, 2012...where were you?

2011-09-11T13:11:00.001-05:00

September 11, 2001...where were you? I remember exactly where I was when the first plane hit one of the Towers at the World Trade Center. It was a Tuesday and I was starting my first day of work at a company that would eventually be my best job...next to being a mommy of course. I remember sitting in the lobby and waiting to be let into my company's part of the building. Title Source, Inc....a sister company to Quicken Loans had lots of televisions throughout the building hanging from the ceilings. I sat watching in disbelief thinking...how a plane could have possibly hit that building. They said it was a 747. The man next to me ask me what type of plane crashed. I told him what the broadcaster had said and he argued with me that there was NO WAY a plane that size hit it....it would have leveled the whole building. Little did he know that he was predicting the future only hours later.

Everyone was in shock that this could happen...to us...the US OF A. War on US grounds happened 50 years ago...and that was OVER right?! I remember feeling such sorrow for the people ashy white searching, frantically searching for their loved ones.   I couldn't watch it...but I couldn't turn away either. How could someone have so much hatred for any one person, let alone almost 3000 people? My heart was broken for them and I developed a new LOVE for my country.

I am so thankful to live in this country. So grateful for the freedoms that we take for granted every.single.day.   I can't help but get a little emotional each time I hear our country's national Anthem. I am thankful the freedom of religion that I am blessed to enjoy. The religion that makes it possible for me to be with Coby and Corbin, Jack and Jaden for eternity.

I love our country and am grateful every single day to the God-fearing men that founded it. May every US citizen take a minute to reflect on just what an amazing country we live in.

ON SIDE NOTE:

In total 3,497 people died in the attacks on September 11, 2001.

2,735 civilians in the World Trade Center died
87 passengers and crew members aboard American Airlines Flight 11 that hit the North Tower
60 passengers and crew aboard United Flight 175 that hit the South Tower
343 New York City firefighters and rescue workers and 23 New York City law enforcement officers, 47 Port Authority workers and 37 Port Authority Police Officers, lost their lives when they rushed in to save the victims in the World Trade Center
36 passengers and crew aboard United Flight 93, who gave their lives stopping four hijackers over Pennsylvania
64 passengers and crew aboard American Airlines Flight 77 that crashed into the Pentagon, killing them and 125 people in the building.

I'm PROUD to be an American! God Bless our Country, our Troops, Our President (regardless of how I feel about him on a personal level), our law enforcement, Firefighters, and all those who gave their lives to ensure our freedom.

Coby goes to Amsterdam

2011-09-09T10:03:00.060-05:00

Coby recently went on a trip to Amsterdam for work. He was gone for a whole week....and it was a long week let me tell ya!! I was pretty sad because he couldn't use his cell phone (out of the country) and we'd have to rely on the computer to Skype. About an hour after we dropped him off at the airport, my computer completely crashed...COMPLETELY!! I was pretty nervous to say the least. This was the first time we've been apart for so long. It seems to me that when Coby leaves anything that can go wrong does!! :) I won't bore you with all the details of the computer, the server constantly crashing, the apple TV, church callings, a sick baby...the list could seriously go on and on!!

He got some great shots of the city.

The city is made of tons of water canals. (All I could picture was the Italian Job.)

Here is the RED LIGHT district. "ROXXXXXANNNNNNE"! What I love is that there is a sign directly across the street that looks "family friendly..." Hmmmmmm!!

But this picture has GOT to be my FAVORITE!

Amsterdam at night.

We were so happy to have our Coby home safe and sound. We missed him so much!

Jaden goes potty in the potty

2011-08-27T14:44:00.013-05:00

One happy baby!! = 2 Even HAPPIER parents!!

Careful buddy...don't fall in...!

I feel like Jaden has been ready to start potty training for a while now. He always tells me when he's "Stinkeeee" as he crinkles up his cute little face. And when he has to pee he touches his crotch and says, "Peeeeee". He's so funny because he thinks farts and burps are the most hilarious things EVER!!!

So, today I asked him if he needed to go potty in the "big" potty and he of course said yes. He tried and by tried I mean he tried so hard his face went red and he was grunting (also very funny and cute). And nothing came out. I just figured he didn't need to to. I left him in the bathroom and went into the kitchen to talk to Cobe. All of a sudden we hear him peeing in the toilet. We both ran into the bathroom to see and lo and behold...he had TOTALLY peed in the potty. It was memorable!! Has it happened since?? NO...but we're still trying! :)

Happy 33rd to me

2011-08-26T14:45:00.069-05:00

My birthday celebrations started the day before with my cute little "Little" treating me to a little birthday lunch. We chatted without any kids. It was AWESOME! And as usual, time went WAY too fast! And we soon found ourselves having to say goodbye.

My actual Birthday started out with a little Birthday Brunch at Joanne's house with all of the Rich girls. It was PERFECT. She had her table all decorated and each place setting had a fun bottle of nail polish as a favor. She made Eggs Benedict on English Muffins, these to die for raspberry muffins (Amber Sargent's recipe...so you KNOW they were good!!!), and some yummy fruit. She really put a lot of time and effort into it and I LOVED it! Thank you soo much!! It was a great treat from the night I had before missing my little Jackie Joo. My mom and Ambie were with me and I felt like I needed to visit my little Jackie. So we headed off to the cemetery after the Brunch Festivities. It was a beautiful day. Not too hot and I know that my little Jack was there with us. I miss him so much and it's hard to celebrate every birthday without him there to help me blow out the candles. But, I think that the more birthdays I have...it's just one year closer to the day I'll get the best present of all...holding my sweet Jack again.

When we got home from the cemetery, Coby had come home with THOSE!! I love lots of colorful flowers. The computer had a sticky note on it telling me to press play. He made me a sweet little video message. It was really sweet! He decided to work from home and sent me a little video survey online to fill out in preparation of my birthday date.

Later that night, my mom took the boys and Coby took me to see a cute movie. If you haven't seen it...you should really go. It's cute and has a couple twists that I didn't see coming. Then we headed off for a little sushi.

Las Vegas Roll....YUMMY!!! We went to dinner at a place called Mt. Fuji. Great food...SUPER SLOW service.

Then on the way home I turned super bratty. I was so excited for my birthday present. I asked him when I could have it and he said..."Well, I wanted to pick it up today, but it wouldn't fit in the trunk." I thought..."Oh my word...it has to be AMAZING and BIG." Then he told me it was a freezer and I said out loud..."Really, a freezer...for my birthday?" With a SUPER rude face as I said it. It really hurt his feelings. Then I went further and said something to the effect that getting a freezer was as exciting as getting new tires on the car. Then I felt like the biggest jerk! I didn't know how to fix it and was in a bad mood and so I just sat not saying anything and probably hurt his feelings more. Later he told me that I couldn't have the freezer anymore and now I really want one!! :) So, girls...next time your husband gets you a gift you are NOT excited about....be NICE and say THANK YOU and make him feel good about the thought! :)

The next day I decided to kill time and hit the D.I. while Coby went on a bike ride. This is what I found!!

A Petunia Pickle Bottom Diaper bag for $1.50!! I couldn't believe my luck!! I was so excited!!

Happy birthday to me!! Jadesy was SUPER excited to help me blow out my candles! We all went over to my mom's house to open a BIG birthday package from Aunt Sommy and Uncle Drew. Sommer is the BEST at present giving. She's always a big spender it seems and I am happy to reap the benefits of her labors!! :) She gave me an AWESOME and gorgeous Guess wallet. I loved it! She also sent presents for Coby (some sweet shorts), Corbin (A pokemon game for his DSI and pokemon cards....let me tell ya...that little boy was in HEAVEN) and for Jaden a musical vacuum cleaner. He loves it. It sings, "I'm going to clean the house...Dooo-da....Dooo-da." And Jaden walks around singing "Dooo-da...Dooo-da." It's so cute! Thanks Aunt Sommy....We love you and miss you tons and tons!!!

My birthday was GREAT thanks to so many awesome people who stopped by and dropped things off, took me to lunch, wished me happy birthday and just took the time to make me feel GREAT! Thank you all sooo much! Coby...I'm super sorry and wish I would have just said THANK YOU! You did a GREAT job planning out a GREAT birthday and I am so grateful for you! Love you baby!

For my birthday I wish....

2011-08-25T22:49:00.000-05:00

This year for my birthday I only have one request. One wish. One desperate plea. Come back baby. I miss you so much.

My heart is aching to hold him tonight. Aching for just a glimpse of what he'd be like today. I feel like I can't breathe. I can't stop my tears tonight. I don't want to turn another year older without him here. I don't like that time just keeps trucking on and he's not here to truck along with us! I want to hear his laugh and pull his sweet toe head into my leg. How could he be gone twice as long as he was even here and my heart feel so hopeless and empty for him? I will never be over this and there is nothing I can do about it. So I guess I'll just keep moving forward. Never forgetting. Always longing. Longing for that sweet, beautiful boy that loved me so perfectly he'd have to be an angel. At least I got 16 months to love an angel on earth. I feel so blessed to have held him for 1 year, 4 months, and 3 1/2 days. Someday it will all be worth it....just not tonight.

Corbin's First day of 1st Grade

2011-08-22T14:43:00.018-05:00

I am a FIRST GRADER...Hear me ROOOOOAAAARRR!!!

One of these days he's gonna know how to smile....

He's thinking about it.....

It's as good as it's gonna get...so I'll TAKE it!!

I can't believe that my little Corbi-Mac-A-Doodle is officially a FIRST GRADER!!!! How can that be? He's in school ALL day. He brings a lunch. He leaves early in the morning and doesn't get home until late. I won't lie....it's been nice...but he has been a little bittersweet. I love that cute little boy, even if he is the BIGGEST teaser in the world and drives his little brother bonkers. Jaden misses him all day and often asks where "Bobil" is. I'm so proud of him and am excited for what this new year will bring.