Kelly and Alisha

Memorial Weekend Camping trip...

2010-06-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

I'm a little slow posting. Memorial Day Weekend Kelly and I took Cameron and Caroline (they were the only ones not working or gone somewhere) to Yellowstone. We took our 5th wheel and camped about 10 miles from West Yellowstone, MT. We spent a day in Yellowstone seeing some of the sites, Old Faithful, the paint pots... the best part was the buffalo who laid down in the middle of the road and had a baby. We didn't see the birth, but very close after. We also made a trip to Earthquake Lake, MT. It is an incredible place, we visited the memorial boulder and visitor center. Then we took a drive around through part of Idaho and back to West Yellowstone. It was rainy and kind of cold, but we still had a great time. We are trying to go again in July as a last trip before Tylen leaves on his mission and Chase leaves for college.

Tylen Mission Call

2010-05-06T21:43:00.001-07:00

Sorry Tylen, this is the only good picture I have of you on this computer. Wednesday morning, May 5, 2010 we got a phone call at 6:30 am from the Heber City Postmaster, Lynn Forakis. He asked me if I had a young man waiting for a mission call. He said that he had a letter for Tylen at the post office and if he would come on up and go in the back door they'd be waiting for him. Tylen went up and brought home his letter. He has been called to serve for 2 years in the Washington DC, South mission. He will enter the MTC in Provo, August 11, 2010. We are so proud of his decision and excitement to go on a mission. We will start shopping and getting his things together so he'll be ready to go. It is a bittersweet feeling, but we are excited.

Baseball in Heber

2010-05-06T21:36:00.000-07:00

Ok, there is just something not right about being bundled up in winter gear and blankets to watch baseball on May 6. But, bundle up we did. Cameron is playing his last year of County ball. Tonight he had a few great hits, stole a base, and made some great catches and plays. He played 2nd base and left field tonight. He loves the game! Way to go Cam!

"CHAMP"

2010-05-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted anything, and I hate to start with a sad one. Our big, friendly Champion passed away April 25, 2010. He has been a part of our family since Cameron was 3. That's 11 years. He died in the night and we found him on a Sunday. It is amazing how we miss him sitting in the back yard. Running around with us. Greeting us by the garage when we come home. We miss you Champ!

Saturday is a Special Day

2009-05-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

The Earl home, Tremonton, Utah

Cameron weedeating at the Earl's

Kelly working on the lawnmower at his parent's

Kelly and his parents, Tremonton

Caroline vacuuming grandma and grandpa Earl's car.

Last Saturday we went to Tremonton to help Kelly's mom and dad in the yard. Grandpa is not doing so well, beginning alzeheimer's. and Mom has been told she can't stress her heart, no more lifting. It is a sad thing as the yard is mom's pride and joy. We had a great time.

Caroline Clogging 2009

2009-05-23T21:11:00.000-07:00

Caroline has been clogging for 3 years now. This is her picture from this year. She just competed in the Western Nationals at Lagoon. It is always a fun weekend. Can't believe how she is growing up.

"Alishaology"

2009-05-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

Let others know a little more about yourself, re-post this as your namefollowed by "ology".

***********FOODOLOGY***************
What is your salad dressing of choice?Blue Cheese
What is your favorite sit-down restaurant? Outback Steakhouse
What food could you eat every day for two weeks and not get sick of? Pizza
What are your pizza toppings of choice? Pepperoni and cheese
What do you like to put on your toast? Depends, sourdough toast with just butter. Wheat toast with peanut butter, or butter with cinnamon and sugar

***********TECHNOLOGY***************
How many televisions are in your house? 3
What color is your cell phone? a dark red

***************BIOLOGY******************
Are you right-handed or left-handed? right
Have you ever had anything removed from your body? galbladder
What was the last heavy item you lifted? chelsea's boxes moving home from school
Have you ever been knocked unconscious?* No

************BULLCRAPOLOGY**************
If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die? Nope, I would worry to much.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to? Fredrika Whilemina

Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000?...I don't think so.

************DUMBOLOGY******************
How many pairs of flip flops do you own? one
Last time you had a run-in with the cops? never had a run in, but have had tickets years ago.
Last person you talked to? Kelly
Last person you hugged?Kelly
**************FAVORITOLOGY****************
Season? Harley riding season
Holiday?*Christmas
Day of the week?Saturday
Month?December
***********CURRENTOLOGY*****************
Missing someone? nope, I got my family
Mood? content
What are you listening to? the kids playing
Watching? nothing
Worrying about? Kelly (he's sick)

***************RANDOMOLOGY*****************
First place you went this morning?haven't left the house yet, we're sick
What's the last movie you saw? X-Men Origins
Do you smile often? Yes
Sleeping Alone Tonight? nope

***************OTHER-OLOGY*****************
Do you always answer your phone? not always, especially if it rings at work.
Its four in the morning and you get a text message, who is it? i have never gotten a txt at 4 am,
If you could change your eye color what would it be? I wouldn't change them, I get compliments on my eyes.
What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic? diet coke with fresh lime
Do you own a digital camera? yes I LOVE it
Do you have a pet fish? No, well, Cam does.
Favorite Christmas song(s) Baby It's Cold Outside (not really christmas but that's when they play it)
What's on your wish list for your birthday? Tickets to another musical, makeup, whatever....
Can you do push ups?a few
Can you do a chin up? probably not
Does the future make you more nervous or excited? right now, kind of nervous
Do you have any saved texts? not right now.
Ever been in a car wreck? yes, 15 minutes before school would have been out, i was 16.
Do you have an accent? I don't think so.
What is the last song to make you cry?
Plans tonight? It's sunday night, probably just sitting around and getting ready for work tomorrow.
Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom? Yes
Name 3 things you bought yesterday. I bought one set of floaties, haha for muscles at primary :)
Have you ever been given roses?*Yes!
Current worry? raising kids
Current hate right now? Kelly's x-wife,
Met someone who changed your life? Yes, everyone you meet changes your life in some way
How will you bring in the New Year?probably at a party with Kelly's brother's and sister.
What song represents you? It really depends on my mood.
Name three people who might complete this? ??? Not sure!!
Would you go back in time if you were given the chance? yes
Do you have any tattoos/piercings? Just my ears, and I had two in each ear in high school, they've since closed up.
Will you be in a relationship 4 months from now? Yes,
Would you be a pirate? aarrrrggggg!
What songs do you sing in the shower? Usually what I've been listening to.
Ever had someone sing to you? Yes, Kelly sings to me all the time. Mostly funny made up stuff.
When did you last cry? Last night
Are you afraid of being alone? No
Do you like to cuddle? cuddling is my favorite
Have you held hands with anyone today? nope
Who was the last person you took a picture of? Jill in Cali I think
What kind of music did you listen to in elementary school? Whatever was on the radio in the 70-80's
Do you believe in staying close with your ex? I don't have one, I'm thankful and I wish Kelly's could stay as far away as possible. Unfortunately when there are kids involved, no choice.
Are most of the friends in your life new or old? new
Do you like pulpy orange juice? Yes! The more pulp the better
What is something your friends make fun of you for?
I tag anyone who thinks this looks like fun because it is!!

Chase's Bi-lateral Bunionectomy

2009-04-12T19:22:00.000-07:00

The patient recovering looks tough.
Getting into the doctors office.
Standing on the xray machine. Dr. Taylor.
Chase's foot, cute nails chase..... (4 days post op)
(The right foot)

April 6th was the start of Spring Break for the kids in Wasatch. Unfortunately for Chase, it was spent at home with his feet up. Chase has been having trouble with big calouses on his toes. Well, turns out it is because he has 70 year old feet on his 17 year old body. He had major bunions. So he elected to have them fixed. And not just one at a time like the Doctor suggested, he wanted them both done so he can be completely healed to start football in the summer. Two bones of his foot were cut and moved and pinned to straighten out his big toe. He was in surgery for 4 hours on the 6th. He spent the first 3 days with his feet up to prevent swelling, and with ice packs on them. In order to get to the bathroom, his brothers devised a plan. Tie a rope to a skate board, Chase would scoot himself onto the board and his brothers would pull him down the hall to the bathroom. It was actually pretty funny. On Thursday Chase had to go to the dr. for a wound check. the doc wanted to do some xrays to check the placement of the screws. While trying to step up onto the xray box, Chase stubbed his right toe. I thought he would pass out, it was very painful. He is now going stir crazy, but will miss a few more days of school, as he still can not put much pressure on his feet. I always dream of days where I can lay around and put my feet up, watch movies.......When forced though, it is not so fun. Oh, and yes, his toenails are painted. A girl came over to check on him and painted them while she was here. Cute!!

xtra prom pictures

2009-03-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

Chase and Mom Dancing
Caroline and her big brother! Isn't that the cutest picture???

Wasatch Junior Prom, 2009 Chase and Maloree

2009-03-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

Chase and Maloree ready for Prom
Chase and Mal, Rowdy and Bailey, Joe and Moriah
Chase ready to pick up his date.
The couple ready to be announced and Promenade, Mal tripped up the stairs. I'm surprised they could stop laughing.
Waiting to Promenade
Chase kept stepping on Mal's dress during the Promenade
Promenading

Chase went to his Junior prom in March. Jr Prom is a big deal here, not sure about anywhere else, but the whole town show up at the High School to watch the Juniors Promenade. The kids spend 2 weeks learning a dance in the mornings. He complained for weeks before going, but ended up having a really fun time. He went with his good friend Maloree Utley. The boys cooked breakfast for the girls and then took them to Park City, to the Color Me Mine. Then that night they went to the Zermatt for dinner and to the Promenade and Dance. After the promenade the kids dance with their parents, boys with moms and girls with Dad's. Chase even danced with Caroline, it was sweet (i'll post those pics separately)

The Rest of the Story....

2009-03-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

Scoma's resturant in Sosulito.
Going to WICKED! It was Awesome!!!
Kelly at Alcatraz. They say "Break the rules, go to prison. Break the prison rules, go to Alcatraz." What a cool place!

locking up the bikes to go eat at Scoma's
Stopping on the Golden Gate Bridge (note the sign above me)
Getting ready to ride the bridge (see it in the distance) It was an 8 mile trip across the bridge to Sosulito, then we rode a Ferry back to SF.
Kelly's only place he said he cared about going, He wanted a Harley shirt from San Francisco.
Standing in front of some of the Chocolate making equipment at Girardelli. We had ice cream sundaes twice while in SF with melted Ghirardelli chocolate on them. mmmm good!
The trip was a blast, Thank you so much Kelly for this incredible gift.

San Francisco

2009-03-12T22:53:00.000-07:00

I am writing this quick note from San Francisco. We arrived yesterday, Wed. March 11. After we figured out how to get out of the airport on the BART system, we got to the Union Park area. We walked up about 6 or so blocks to our hotel where we are staying. Jody, Kelly's brother got us a room at the WorldMark by Wyndham. It is great, just perfect for us. We couldn't check in because we were so early, but they held our luggage for us and we headed over to Chinatown. We went in a few little shops and then found a Sushi bar, we had lunch and then walked to Union Park and through some of the shops there. When I vacation, I look for certain souviners from each place. I always get an apron, a charm, a spoon and magnet. So, my first purchase in SanFrancisco was a charm of a trolley car. We got passes for the week on the MUNI that is the transportation systems here. We rode a trolley car down to Fisherman's Wharf. The first thing in that area we did is go to the famous Ghiaredlli square. We had ice cream there. Then we walked way down the wharf, and took in all the sights and stores. Went to the Boudin Bread bakery and watched them make sourdough bread. I got my apron on the Wharf, it is an Alcatraz black and white stripped one. We bought tickets to go to Alcatraz on Saturday. We found a Harley store, which is Kelly's favorite place to get souviners. He got 2 t-shirst that Say SanFrancisco on them. We headed back on the trolley to our place and crashed early. We had been up since 4 utah time to get out of there. I ran across the street to a little market and got some drinks and we ordered a pizza to our room. It was good.
Today we hung around our room, being lazy till about 10:30. It was nice. We decided that we'd head back to the Wharf today. First we stopped at Lombard street. It is a vey famous, and the most winding street. We walked down it, and at the bottom Kelly started talking to a guy taking care of the gardens. He happened to be a resident of Lombard street and he was very informative and gave us some history. It was cool. We walked back up, Huff and Puff. And headed back to the Wharf. We went to eat at some little place. There is a little side street that had a million little places with crab, lobster, shrimp, etc. We ducked into this little restaurant, Nick's Lighthouse. I had Shrimp and crab cocktail, and Crab chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. Kelly had Blue Point oysters on the half shell and lobster bisque. It was delicious. Then we walked to Pier 39 and watched the sea lions, they are famous there. We walked all the shops on the pier and bought a big bag of assorted candy. We went to the Bay Aquarium, that was pretty cool. Then we caught a cable car down to the financial district. I grew up in a city, Las Vegas, but that is nothing like this city. It was incredible the buildings and the people. On just about every corner there are street musicians, and beggars and all sorts of crazies. But they don't really bother you, they just do their thing. We took a trolly back to the union park area. We did some more wandering through Virgin records, the Ferrari store, the Apple store. Then we saw a movie. We were talking on the trolley about finding a good steak tonight and the trolley operator recommended a place called John's grill. So we headed there for dinner. Come to find out it is famous, well in literary circles so to speak. It is where Sam Spade eats often. He is a character from the story, The Maltese Falcon. Very good steak!! Happily stuffed, we headed back up the hill on the trolley to Bush street where we walk one block and are back at our hotel. Tomorrow we want to rent a bike and we plan on riding across the Golden Gate bridge, they say it is pretty level, takes about 3 hours total. We will ride across the bridge and into Sosulito (sp?) and then take a ferry back to the Wharf. A friend of ours did it a week or so ago and said it was incredible. Good thing I've been going to the gym. Tomorrow night we go see Wicked, which is the real purpose of this trip. I am so excited!! I will post pictures later as I am too lazy to get the camera out and try to upload them right now. This has been so much fun so far. Thank you Kelly for this wonderful Christmas present.

Celine Dion - Salt Lake City

2009-02-23T15:03:00.000-08:00

Tucano's @ the Gateway
Celine Dion

Sunday night was so much fun!!! A friend, Jill, invited me to go with her to see Celine Dion. She had the tickets for a while. It was awesome. Kelly and I saw her in Vegas a couple of years ago and that was a great show. This was a very good concert. Celine likes to talk to her audience. She apologized for the cancellation last November. She is a very pretty lady. We went to dinner at Tucanos at the Gateway Center. I had a great time, I hope Jill did too!! Thanks Jill!!!!

Saturday Fun

2009-02-21T21:03:00.000-08:00

Today was a very fun Saturday. This morning, Kelly had to go fix Chelsea's car. It seems to have a problem every weekend when she comes home. At least it is when she comes home and not up in Logan. (that's not the fun part.) I spent some time cleaning out my car, scrubbing floor mats, washing and armor alling (is that a word?) the dash. (that's not really the fun part either) But is was funny because at the car wash, I backed up toward the wall and soaked my butt with one of the other wands in the wash bay, the guy behind me was probably laughing his head off. When I got home, Kelly and I started the fun. We headed down to Provo and to PF Changs for lunch. That was a surprise to me, but it was very good. Kelly said that is his new favortie. We just had some of their lunch bowls, but our favorites are usually, lettuce wraps, shrimp and candied walnuts, lemon scallops, and hot fish. mmmmmmmmmmmm. After PF Changs we headed to Sandy and the South Towne Expo center to the annual RV Expo. We are dreaming of a new 5th wheel, we are now thinking that a toy hauler would be the way to go so we can take the Harley places and have our own place to stay. Also, it would be nice to take it like down to AZ in the winter so we can still ride. Now keep in mind this is a dream. We have been looking for years, we just love to go to the expo and see all the fun stuff. Some of those motor homes are incredible with nicer furnishings than my house, they cost as much if not more. When we finally got tired, we decided to head back down to provo. Kelly took me to the mall to try on some clothes. I didn't find anything i really wanted, but it was fun. Chelsea and Caroline met us and we all had some pizza from Sbarro. Caroline had a hot dog from Iceberg. The girls went to see a movie and Kelly and I walked around a bit more. Kelly stopped me at the mineral makeup kiosk and asked the girl to tell me about it, so she gave me kind of a makeover. I didn't have my camera so the pictures above will just have to represent all this fun. I really like that mineral makeup. We drove around today with the top down on Kelly's 350Z, it was so nice out, in fact he got a little sun. We can't wait for spring. I have started planning my garden already. I want to be ready to go when the ground is ready. I had so much fun last year with the garden. Thanks Kelly for the great day!!

Random Rambling....

2009-02-18T19:50:00.000-08:00

I hate to post without pictures, it's boring (I know Andrea). But I decided that this blog was more for us to have as a history as much as people to see what is going on. So, if you want to read on go ahead, if not I understand.
This week, as every week, has been busy. We had Chelsea home for the Weekend. We like it when she comes home. We really miss her during the week. We wish she could find a good job in Logan so she could have a weekend life in college, but we do enjoy her coming home. Kelly, Chelsea and I met our friend Tex monday for lunch in Provo at the Chinese Buffet, mmmm it was good. Then Chelsea headed back on up to Logan.
Tylen and Chase pretty much have been working. They have a lot of work to make up since wrestling took so much of their time. The have bills to pay. Tylen is getting ready to graduate in a few months. I can't believe it. We talk a bit about his plans. He wants to be a dentist. His plans are to stay home and start general classes at UVU and continue to work at Smith's then go on his mission. After that he will decide where to go. It won't be long and we will have a few missionaries out. (I hope Chelsea goes someday.)
Chase has been miserable sick for almost 2 weeks now. I'm not one to run the kids to the doctor for every little sniffle, but when it goes on for so long and they don't seem to get better, I take them. Chase has a sinus infection, so we got him on antibiotics today, he will feel better soon. I hope he is not like his dad and grandpa who had lots of sinus problems and surgery. Chase also asked Mallory Utley to Prom. Junior prom is a big deal here and I told him I don't care if he goes to any other dances, but he has to go to his Jr. prom. He put his name in a bag of ice and put on her porch with a note that said, "It would be cool if you would go to Prom with me." Well a few nights later, at 10:30 our doorbell rang. Now we have to step back and explain that Chase is trying to grow a "STACHE" (mustache). Sorry Chase you just are not hairy enough. Well, Mallory's note said, "Chase we will definately look "sharp" at prom" and it had a razor taped to it with a can of shaving cream and a p.s. that said" the stache has to go" We laughed so hard. People are giving Chase a pretty hard time about the stache, in fact at work a guy told him another week or so and they would deport him. 17 year old boys trying to grow facial hair is just awkward.
Keaton has been babysitting again for Rusty, she is a Respiratory Therapist that I met at the hospital here and she is a single mom with 3 kids. She now works at Primary Children's and Keaton will go over on a Friday and stay over night with the kids. They love him and he does such a great job. And for someone not quite old enough to work, he is making good money. In fact over the summer he bought a dirt bike with his money. Way to go Keat. Keaton is also, how should I say, In very much like with a girl. They both have parents who don't want them to do the boyfriend/girlfriend thing, but they seem to do alot together. What do you do?
Cameron has decided to continue wrestling. I want to be supportive, but I'm having a hard time with the time commitment for it. It will really help him improve though, so what do you do? We have great coaches here and it is good for him. I hope he is successful.
Caroline has been busy practicing clogging and playing. She had decided that she needs to go downstairs and practice for at least 30 minutes every day. I'm proud of her, that's how you get better. She has set a goal to try out for the Jr. All American team this year at nationals. I am glad that the kids have goals.
Kelly and I have just been busy working as usual. Kelly has taught a lot of scuba lately, and continues to do that. We can't wait for Harley weather. We have a few trips planned. SanFrancisco (not on the harley) in March, Canada in June. and a few others. We will also be going to the piaute trail with the rhino for some trail riding and camping and hopefully to moab.
The weather has been warmer but snowy. Last year at this time, it was bitter cold. We are thankful for the snow and the moisture it brings. I can't wait to plant my garden again. I want to try some new things.

Sunday Night is Homemade Pizza Night!

2009-02-15T18:23:00.000-08:00

It is kind of Tradition (and Kelly and I just were talking about making it totally tradition) that Sunday night we make homemade pizza. Tonight Cam and Caroline got in the act. We usually make 4 pizzas, one supreme with lot's of stuff on it, 2 pepperoni and one Hawaiian or whatever we have. We want to try a bbq chicken one or a garlic alfredo chicken type one. Chase has told us that he could eat pizza everyday for the rest of his life he loves it so much. We also like to have some kind of dessert on Sundays. Tonight Chelsea is making sugar cookies, CAN'T WAIT! Now what's for dinner tomorrow????????

Jr High Wrestling State Finals

2009-02-05T21:33:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, Kelly, Keaton, Cameron, Caroline and I headed to Richfield for the Jr. High State Championships. Some of my pics aren't so good. The boys didn't win either, but we had a good time. It is fun hanging out with the kids. We spent two days at the Sevier Valley Event Center. Friday night we went back to our motel with the kids and ordered pizza and watched tv. It was relaxing and fun. Saturday back to the event center for more wrestling. The boys all sat together down close to the floor. It is tradition at Wasatch for all the wrestlers to bleach their hair for state. The jr and senior high boys do it. You can kind of see it in some of the pics. Caroline loves this weekend because she and her friend Bridgette Sweat hang out and play the whole time. Cameron has decided to keep going with wrestling in freestyle so that he can keep practicing and improve for next year. I say, go for it!!

Tylen Jon Earl

2009-02-05T21:18:00.001-08:00

Tylen is going to be graduating soon, so I thought I would blog about him a little bit. I have been trying to do this for a while, but have had difficulties uploading pics. So here goes. A few weeks ago they had senior night for Wrestling. We, Kelly and I, got to go down on the mats with Him as they honored each boy and then showed a really cool video. It was a sentimental night for all, as this is the last year for the current Wasatch High School. It was the last night that the seniors would wrestle at wasatch and all the wrestlers for that matter. The boys all wore old wrestling singlets from years past. It was neat. Tylen is working to finish up his eagle project before he turns 18. (gotta hurry Ty, running out of time.) He has worked at Smith's for almost 2years now. He is looking forward to a mission. Tylen plans on living at home after graduation and going to UVU while he continues to work.
I am thankful for Tylen's laid back personality. It takes a lot to bug Ty. He is a good big brother and big help when we need him.
Tylen likes to fish, hunt and camp (although we haven't done a lot of any of those things this year). He had his first girlfriend, and unfortunately they have broken up. But that was a good experience for him. This past summer he spent some time golfing, he has gotten his own clubs and loves to go. I have watched Ty go from cute chubby kid, to Handsome, grown up young man. I am proud of him and his standards. He is a very good kid who honors his priesthood.
We like to call him, Tylenol, the painkiller. We love you Tylen!!

CAMERON TANNER NIELSON

2009-01-16T17:50:00.000-08:00

January 15, is Cameron's birthday. I thought I'd give him a little tribute. Always impatient, from the beginning Cam was born 8 weeks early. He was due March 7th and came January 15th. He was described by the doctors as a vigorous infant. It was his mother that had the problems. I had pre-eclampsyia. My kidneys quit working and my blood pressure was above text book highs. It was necessary to deliver early. So I had an emergency C-section after a week of bed rest in the hospital. Cameron's dad was in LA at the time so Grandma Nielson was there with us. It was very scary. Thank goodness Barry's company flew him home, but he didn't get there till the next morning. Cameron weighed 3 pounds he was very tiny. You can see how small in the picture of his dad holding him. After 3 weeks in the NICU at Utah Valley, he got to come home. He has been healthy and full of life ever since. The top picture is Cameron's blessing picture, he was 3 months old in that pic, gives you an idea of how small he was. He is still a bit short, but we hope he gets a growth spurt and sprouts up. The second picture is of Barry holding cameron in the NICU, next is Cam's 3rd birthday, 5th birthday and 13th Birthday. Cameron loves the outdoors. (in fact while I write this he is at a campout somewhere in wolf creek) He loves football, wrestling, baseball. He is a very helpful child and wants to be right in the mix helping with whatever we need. Cameron is also very loving, he is a hugger. He is my only boy who opens doors for me, when we get in the car, there is Cam opening my door. He loves scouts and aspires to get his Eagle. We love You Cam, Happy Birthday.

WHERE'S THE BEEF??????

2009-01-10T15:15:00.000-08:00

Today we were able to pick up our half side of beef we ordered. It was about 400lbs before cut and wrap. We have two deep freezers and our kitchen freezer. The chest freezer has all the new beef in it and the upright has all the meat we had left from previous half sides, and the kitchen freezer has all the pork and ham we have. We have not bought beef at a grocery store for at least 4 years now. I am so thankful we are able to plan for and do this. We're getting ready to order a pig so we can finish filling up that chest freezer in the basement. Now, What's for dinner???

The Game of Life

2009-01-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

We got the Game of Life from Santa this year. We spent the last two nights playing a round. If only life were that easy, I was a millionaire!!!

Smoked Chicken Lasagna

2009-01-04T18:14:00.001-08:00

Kelly has tried a new receipe. This was incredible, it had smoked chicken, mushrooms, 5 cheeses etc. It was great, if you'd like the receipe let us know.

And She's Off......

2009-01-04T17:42:00.000-08:00

Chelsea has moved out again. Watch out Utah State. Saturday we moved Chelsea up to Logan to her cute little house. She is renting a room in a house with 5 other girls. Some of them are also from Wasatch. Not really close friends or anything but girls she knew. Chelsea is going to study Special Education and hopes to work in a Secondary School level. What about BYU-I you ask.... it's a long story for another time. (Check out the green shag carpet!!)

Beautiful Mountains

2009-01-02T20:04:00.000-08:00

Today I took Cameron and Tylen to Orem. We shopped at Seagull Book, and Play and Trade and WalMart. Cameron got a PSP for Christmas so he took his old game boy and games to Play and Trade. They gave him 51$ store credit for his games and system. He was able to buy 3 used PSP games and only paid 11$ for them. He was thrilled. After those places we went to the Animal Ark in Orem on Center Street. As we left the store, this was the scene to the East. We live in such a beautiful place. I had to take a picture of this view, it wouldn't last long.

Girls Cousins Weekend

2009-01-02T19:47:00.000-08:00

New Year's day we came home from Logan with not one, not two, but 4 little girls. Left to right in the snow; Cambrie, Angeleah, JaeLynn and Caroline. They talked and giggled in the car from Logan to Morgan, then all of a sudden it was silent. They all went to sleep. There has been hours of Monopoly, playing in the snow, and playing school. Great cousins, Great Friends!

Happy Snake!!!

2008-12-30T15:50:00.000-08:00

I am very happy to announce the Snake is happily back in her cage. Safe and sound.

Smokin'!!!!

2008-12-28T16:24:00.000-08:00

Kelly got a smoker for Christmas. He has been so excited to try it out. We waited to have our Christmas dinner till today, and he has smoked 4 chickens. (hey we have 7 kids). We are having all the fixin's mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, corn and green beans, and pie for dessert. It smells so incredible at our house right now. He also got a turkey fryer and we will be having a turkey for New Year's.

Still No Snake

2008-12-28T08:17:00.000-08:00

The snake has not been found.

Body Worlds

2008-12-28T08:00:00.001-08:00

Saturday, Chelsea, Tylen, Chase, Keaton and I went to see the Body Worlds exhibit in Salt Lake City. We saw every system of the body, it is amazing what is packed inside us. They had healthy organs and then organs that were damaged or diseased. Very cool. I highly reccommend this exhibit. It is only going to be here until January 11th.

SNAKE ON THE LOOSE

2008-12-27T08:36:00.000-08:00

This is an old picture of Kelly with Keaton's pet snake, Jewels. She is a little bigger now. Keaton has had Jewels since before Kelly and I got married, so at least 6 or 7 years. Well, it finally happened!!! Someone left the top off the snake cage last night. Now we have a snake on the loose in our house. I am a bit nervous to say the least, and don't want anyone to leave the house till she is found.

SNOW

2008-12-26T16:48:00.000-08:00

I don't know about anywhere else in Utah, but in Heber we thought we'd wake up in OZ. Christmas day the wind blew, and blew, and blew, and blew (get the picture). It blew in circles and all directions. We had huge drifts, notice the picture of the cars... that is our driveway with Chelsea and Tylen's cars back there. Luckily we have a plow so they could get out. The front of the house was plastered with snow and we have huge drifts in the back yard, that are now becoming great snow caves. Today, the day after Christmas, was beautiful. We moved snow and plowed and the kids played it was so fun.

more christmas pics.

2008-12-25T16:09:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T15:51:00.000-08:00

Kelly Opening his Smoker and Turkey Fryer. I think I got the Best Present Ever. Kelly is soooo good to me. I have been begging and begging for Wicked Tickets, Well I got them. Notice the theatre, It's the Orpheum in San Francisco!!! I have to wait till March, but that's ok, he has a whole trip planned, 5 days in San Francisco, I cant wait!!

Electricity

2008-12-20T21:11:00.000-08:00

In the 5th grade, Caroline has been studying electricity in science. Their big project at the end of the unit was to create a house and light it up with christmas lights, using batteries. They had to have a switch to turn it off and on. And then they had to write a real estate ad about their house. You can't see the lights in the pictures, but here is Caroline and Kelly working on the lighting and battery system.

DARE

2008-12-20T21:03:00.000-08:00

Our last child to graduate from the DARE program, Caroline. The program was the best one I have been to. Ms. Utah 2007 came and talked, she was awesome. She had a younger brother who died because of an overdose.

HAPPY 17TH BIRTHDAY CHASE

2008-12-20T20:59:00.000-08:00

Chase turned 17 on Dec 12. We celebrated a few days later because he spent the weekend at a wrestling tournament.

First Snow and the Rhino

2008-12-20T20:50:00.000-08:00

This past summer, Kelly and I bought a Yamaha Rhino. Our whole purpose was to buy a plow for it so we didn't lose our driveway like we did last year in the snow. Well, we had a ton of fun with it, we took it to Moab, and many times up to Cascade Springs through Snake Creek. Well, a few months ago we went back up to Plaza Cycle and bought our plow and had it installed. We parked it in the garage in anticipation of the snow. The snow finally came.....

Cambrie's moment of fame

2008-12-07T12:53:00.001-08:00

Cambrie goes to school in Logan, after our christmas party(which was in Logan) we took all the kids to the mall to look around for a bit. Cambrie was able to show us her ornament she made it is made from a disc like an album. The tree in the picture is covered with ornaments that all the kids at the schools made out of recycled things. It was really neat. We don't get to see what Cambrie does a lot so it was fun for her to share that with all of us. We also ran into a girl from our Ward here in Heber who is going to Utah State.

Earl Family Christmas..Musical Chairs

2008-12-07T12:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, December 6th, was the Earl Family Christmas Party. It was tons of fun as always. We had good food, bingo, guessing games, a pinata and as always a No Holds Barred Musical Chairs. Kelly made it to the final 4, but alas did not win.

Another tradition that Kelly and his siblings remember is that Grandma Earl always read the Littlest Angel on Christmas Eve. So Kristie had Grandma read to all the kids and adults who wanted to listen. It was so silent, the kids were listening so intently.
We love our Family and love being able to spend time with them at the holidays!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2008-11-26T21:36:00.000-08:00

WE WANT TO WISH YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY THANKSGIVING! EAT TURKEY AND TAKE A NAP! THAT'S WHAT WE PLAN TO DO.
WE ARE THANKFUL FOR ALL OUR FRIENDS.
THANKFUL FOR OUR FAMILY.
THANKFUL FOR OUR JOBS.
THANKFUL FOR OUR HOME.
THANKFUL FOR OUR HEALTH.
THANKFUL FOR THE GOSPEL.
THANKFUL FOR THE ABILITY TO PLOW OUR DRIVEWAY IF IT SNOWS.
THANKFUL FOR OUR WONDERFUL KIDS.
THANKFUL FOR THE ABILITY TO FIX THINGS WHEN THEY BREAK.
THANKFUL FOR OUR DREAMS.
THANKFUL FOR GOOD FOOD.
THANKFUL THAT KRISTIE AND DUANE HAVE INVITED US FOR THANKSGIVING DINNER.
THANKFUL FOR THE PRIESTHOOD IN OUR HOME.
THANKFUL FOR OUR FREEDOM.

Those pesky gallbladders..........

2008-11-26T21:20:00.000-08:00

Today, November 2, 2008, Kelly had a Laproscopic Cholesystectomy or Lap Chole for short. That is the removal of the gallbladder. For a long time Kelly has had these episodes where he will start to bloat, then he will start to burp rotten egg smell and then he will have diarrhea and vomitting. He is usually miserable, as those who have been on recent motorcycle trips have witnessed. Well, he has had colonoscopies, endoscopies, and other tests. The Dr. has diagnosed him with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) for which he takes medications. Well, he has continued to have these episodes as explained before. Since I had my gallbladder out in March, and all the people I meet at the hospital that have theirs out. I have thought about all the symptoms people have. We decided to question the Doctor about it and he thought it might be something to check out. So about 2 weeks ago he had a HydaScan. They inject dye and a radio active medicine into you and when it hits the gallbladder it should make the gallbladder do it's thing. Well, when it hit, Kelly's symptoms were reproduced which is a sign of a bad gallbladder. Well, our Doctor sent the info over to Dr Burton, the surgeon here, and he called us yesterday and said he could do the surgery today. Kelly said, Yes!! let's do it. So, to round this story off, Kelly had a Lap Chole today. He has 4 small incisions one just under the breastbone, two on the side, and one right inside the belly button. He did great, and the Dr said that he had a diseased gallbladder and hopefully this will solve his symptoms. That is the excitement of the day.

Pink Floyd......

2008-11-25T20:29:00.000-08:00

On Thursday the 20th, Kelly and I headed to Salt Lake to the E Center to see the Australian Pink Floyd. Kelly's friend, Terry (better known by some as Tex), gave Kelly 2 tickets for an early birthday gift. We had a blast. They sounded just like Pink Floyd, in fact they are approved by some of the members of Pink Floyd and have played for them at various events. They did The Wall in its entirety. Kelly is a HUGE Pink Floyd fan, I enjoy some of it. This was especially fun as the Wall came out when I was in Jr. High School. I remember going to the movies in Las Vegas, and they would have the picture of the wall on the screen and playing...."We Don't Need No Education....." Thanks, Tex...We has so much fun!

Read on...

2008-11-25T06:34:00.000-08:00

So here are some pictures below that go with the Rambling commentary on what has been going on with us. This just scrapes the surface, but we'll try to keep more current.
Alisha

2008-11-25T06:31:00.000-08:00

Chase on the Field
Both boys lettered this year in Football
Tylen and Mom at Senior night. They recognized all the senior players

2008-11-25T06:22:00.001-08:00

Chase and Mallory Utley
Preference 2008

2008-11-25T06:19:00.000-08:00

Tylen and Chase
After the game

2008-11-24T21:23:00.000-08:00

The Kids
October 19, 2008

Catching Up.......

2008-11-24T20:34:00.000-08:00

Well, my blog is turning out to be alot like my journal......."Dear Journal, it has been a while since I've written, so I'll try to catch up." So, now I'll share my random thoughts and try to fill in some news of the Earl/Nielsons in Heber. I'll add some pictures later to go along with some of my thoughts.
Football is over. I think Wasatch may have been last place, or close to. But that was ok, the boys had a great time playing and they both Lettered in football. It was Tylen's last year and he really enjoyed it. He was a member of the Fat Boy Possee. That was started several years ago by some of the boys and has been tradition. The Possee have T-shirts made and they get together to eat every week, which is a big feat to feed all those big Linemen. Some members of the Wasatch Boosters feed them. Incredible!
Now Wrestling has begun. I actually enjoy watching the wrestling. Tylen has chosen not to wrestle this year, and just work on finishing school and working. Chase will wrestle and is hoping for a varsity spot. Keaton and Cameron both are wrestling in the Jr High league which means duals and tournaments every weekend through January. My Favorite it when they go to the state championships in Richfield. Granted there isn't a ton to do in Richfield, but the tournament is enjoyable because we sit for 2 days and don't have to do anything but watch for the boys to wrestle. It is a time to get caught up on books, visit, and relax. I think we might pull our 5th wheel down to stay this year as fuel prices seem to be coming down. Caroline usually goes with us and we don't see her for 2 days because she hangs out with her good friend Bridgett. Fun Times!!
Chase was asked to Preference. That is a girls choice formal dance here. He was asked by a long time buddy, Mallory Utley. They have been friends since kindergarten I think. There were 9 couples in their group. The group went up to a cabin at Sundance on Saturday morning and went hiking and I think they played some games. They came home and got ready, and went to the Mountain House Grill in Midway. They sat upstairs where the TV's are because they were all pretty interested in the big Rivalry Game, Uof U/BYU. After dinner they went to one of the girls houses for dessert and finished the game then went to the dance. Chase said they had a good time. He looked very nice all dressed up. (if only i could get him to cut his hair.)
Caroline had surgery on November 21. She had renal reflux. She has a double ureter system from her kidney to her bladder and one of those ureters allowed urine to go back up into her kidney from her bladder. We found out about this when she was 4. Chase had the same problem. they both had ear infections chronically from birth, therefore they were constantly on antibiotics. When we finally had tubes placed in their ears, and quit the antibiotics, they both developed kidney infections. Caroline had her testing again when she turned 10. They had hoped she would outgrow the problem, unfortunately it got worse. The Dr. suggested we consider fixing it before puberty as girls can have problems with UTIs. We figured this was a good time since all our deductibles and family out of pocket expenses have been met this year. So, Friday morning they took her to surgery and fixed it. They reimplanted the ureter so it would not allow the reflux. She has a two inch incision on her bikini line. Wow, she is a trooper. When they called me in to recovery, she was already sipping an apple juice and talking very well. They then transfered her to a post-op room where she drank down a slushy drink with no problems. She went in for surgery at 10:30 and we were home by 3. She wanted Taco Time for her first meal so that's what she had. Saturday she seemed to be feeling really well, so we went to see Twilight. Well, Sunday it all slammed her, and she said she had bad pain in her back right where the kidney is. So, she stayed in bed most of the day. And today, she stayed home from school and took it easy. She wants to go to school tomorrow though to have a thanksgiving party. So, i'll send her and she can call me if she needs to.
I think we are going to be planning a surgery for Kelly to have his galbladder out. He has had some problems and had it tested and it proved to be bad. the Dr. said if a surgeon looks at the results, they would be in parameters to have it out. So we are just waiting to get it scheduled. Kelly has been very busy teaching scuba. He has had 2 classes going and should be done in the next week or so.
We are looking forward to Thanksgiving dinner and Christmas!!
Now i'll try to add some pictures in another post to go along with all these thoughts. And I'll try to blog more often.

Marathon Anniversary Celebration!!!

2008-10-12T11:17:00.001-07:00

October 11, 2008! What a day! This is our 5th anniversary, wow the time has flown. Here is how we celebrated. Last weekend we headed to Las Vegas, one of our favorite places to go together. We had a pretty nice room at the Stratosphere. We got there Thursday evening and checked in and headed to our favorite restaurant on the strip, Jimmy Buffett's Margarativille. That place is so fun and great food! Friday the 3rd we headed to Cashman Field to check out Las Vegas Bike Fest. We spent about 3 hours walking through the exhibits and had the most incredible Hot Dogs I have ever had. We enjoy checking out the Artistry in Iron exhibit and voting on our favorite bike. Saturday we walked the Strip, we parked at the MGM, wandered there, saw the lions. We spent the day walking, and walking, and walking, and walking (get the idea?) We walked the Miracle Mile Shops at the Planet Hollywood Hotel, we walked to the Paris and the Venetian and Palazo (it felt like we walked to Paris) by the end of the day it was all we could do to walk back to the Excalibur where we had dinner reservations at the tournament of King's. What a Blast!! We ate game hens, with our hands and cheered on our King, the King of Hungary. He didn't win though. Sunday Morning we headed home, after eating at Macayos, my favorite mexican restaurant from my childhood days. We also made a quick stop at Red Rock Harley Davidson.
Thursday the 9th, Cam, Caroline and I headed down to Provo and Spanish Fork. We bought Kelly a Harley Jacket he has been looking at and we went to his work and decorated his desk with balloons and confetti and notes for a Happy Anniversary. (I forgot my camera that day) He was so surprised Friday morning when he walked in and everyone wished him a Happy Anniversary.
Saturday, we spent the day together driving around Salt Lake and provo test driving cars. We had a ball. We are looking for a nice car for Kelly, he has always driven the junk and needs a nicer car. He surprised me by taking me to the Roof for dinner, he had made reservations earlier in the week. It was beautiful, we were right across from the temple looking down and it was snowing. I have never been to the Roof, what a great surprise. We are so happy to celebrate 5 years and are looking forward to 10, 20, 30...........

Tylen's Homecoming Date

2008-09-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

Last Weekend (20th) was Wasatch High's Homecoming. Tylen asked Rachel Reese. She is a cutie. The boys in the group put on a pasta bar, they said it was very good. They went to the dance and took pictures. Danced for a while and went to a friends to watch the Incredibles. He had a great time.

Great Chicken

2008-09-18T12:58:00.001-07:00

Kelly cooked dinner last night. I love it when he does that, it is always soooo goood!!! He made up a recipe for chicken. He took chicken breasts and butterflied them. in the center he put a couple of slices of deli ham, a slice (thick) of cream cheese, and some green peppers. He rolled them up and basted them on the grill with italian dressing. Oh my gosh they were good. We had seasoned roasted potatoes and salad with the chicken. It was great! I think Kelly should cook every night!

Apricots

2008-09-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

Did you know that peeling apricots will turn your fingers, nails and everything you touch orange? I didn't either. We have a neighbor with two big apricot trees that were just overflowing. They told us to come on down and get some. I had the kids get two big boxes. Unfortunately, my timing was off and I had to waste quite a few, but I did get 11 1 cup containers of apricot freezer jam out of them. It was pretty easy, but I don't know if it is any good yet, haven't tried it. we will have to have bread and jam tonight and see. I really want to do strawberrys next year, they are too expensive now. I have gotten the preserving bug.

Crawdads, dillybeans and dirtbikes

2008-09-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

Well, obviously it has been a while since I've blogged. so here is a short recap of some of our fun.
I got a receipe for Dilly Beans from friend at work. She brings them in and it is a good thing we are all in a back office, because we smell of dill and garlic after eating them. I discovered that Kelly has a hidden talent, he loves canning. He was right in the kitchen with me all night. This was my first experience ever canning. I have lots of plans to do more, but not enough time to make my plans a reality. We sent the kids to bed and got started around 10 we went to bed at 1am. The Beans turned out great, thanks Kellie (Knowles) for the Dill. I'll bring you some beans. After we eat the beans and carrotts we cut up cucumbers from our garden and put them in the leftover juice in the fridge for a quick pickle.

Kelly is the assistant Blazer Scout leader, they took their boys up to Strawberry to catch crawdad's. I know, the picture is of Caroline. Caroline and I went along to help, watch and eat. The boys had a blast, they made their own traps and caught a ton of crawdads. Then we de-tailed them (all of the boys probably went home and told their parents about pulling out the "poop shoots") and cooked them right in the parking lot at the marina, we had garlic butter and cocktail suace. I was surprised that all the boys tried them and they all seemed to like them. I guess it is just my kids that are picky. All the boys kept their traps they had made. It was a great activity.

A little over 5 years ago, when Kelly and I were dating, he came to visit and we went and bought him a dirtbike. He had wanted an old Honda XR for years. Well we found one on KSL and went to see it. He kept that bike in my garage and finally moved here to be able to ride it. He has ridden it a couple of times in Moab. One time there he did and endo off a rock and ended up having surgery to repair a Slap Tear in his shoulder. Well, the bike was burning oil and needed a general rebuild, so a friend from work offered to do that for him as he wanted to start a business doing that anyway. Well, a year and a half later, Kelly got his bike back. He was so excited, but had forgotten just how big of a bike it it. It is an XR 600 for you who know what that might mean, and now it is about a 630. Kelly will have to explain all that technical stuff. The bike will pick up the front tire almost on it's own while accelerating and Kelly is practicing riding Wheelies up and down our driveway. Good thing we have accident insurance.

Chelsea is enjoying Rexburg. We miss her tons.

hey hey it's monday

2008-09-08T11:56:00.001-07:00

Alisha has been doing a great job at keeping everyone up to date on what is happening in the Earl World, so now I need to contribute my 2 cents worth. First of all, I work for an aerospace company in Spanish fork, Utah as a manufacturing engineer. I have been here for 5 years. I am the engineer over the Apache team. We manufacture parts for the Apache Helicopter and recently it has been my position to correlate information and data to Boeing. It sure was tough for me to step out of my comfort zone! I feel that I have done an adequate job though and I feel better now about what I do. Now that Chelsea is gone the house is more quiet,,, and more clean!! She had a tendency to leave stuff around making sure we knew that she lived there. now that she is gone, I find that there is a hole where she should be. I miss her. Over the weekend I patched a leak in the roof. It had been dripping down the chimney in the front room. I found that some shingles had been blown off in one of the wind storms that show up in Heber. I was able to reshingle the roof and then tarred all around the chimney again. While I was up there I decided that all the sattelite dishes and the tv antenna had to come down. We don't watch any tv and when we do it won't be with all that apparatus so with the kids help we took it all down and patched the roof where it had all been. It looks alot cleaner. That afternoon we drove down to Spanish Fork and picked up My Honda XR 600 from a buddy that had been rebuilding the motor. it was finally done. We got home fed the kids and at 9:30 we started canning. Alisha has a recipe called Dilly Beans that she aquired from a friend and we had fun! I won't go into any more detail on that though. she has pictures she will be posting later about it.

the workday is done and it's time for me to go. So maybe it wasn't 2 cents worth but I hope you felt it was worth it to read it.

Kelly

Hurricane Chelsea

2008-09-03T12:01:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Chelsea struck the Earl household this week. Leaving in her path empty hearts, and a messy bedroom and bathroom to clean. (see pictures) Today, Chelsea left for college. Wow, I can still remember when I left Vegas for BYU, I think it was just a few weeks ago. Did I cry? YES!!! It is amazing the flood of emotions that come over you. I feel like 18 years isn't enough time to teach everything that they need to know, yet on the other hand, it is time to get out of the house. I am going to miss her a ton. Thank goodness for email and texting these days, we can keep in touch up to the minute. I know that Kelly has expressed his sadness in that he only had 5 years with her. He feels a little cheated. I guess it is time to start learning her own lessons and figure out who she is.

Labor Day Flags

2008-09-01T10:41:00.000-07:00

Cameron and Keaton had to get up early today and put up flags for the scouts. It used to be a fundraiser, but the bishop said he wants every house in the ward boundaries to have a flag. It looks so neat to drive down the street and see every house with a flag. They put up about 35 flags.

Wild Hogs

2008-08-31T22:49:00.000-07:00

In July Kelly and 2 of his brothers, Rex and Jody, and a friend Boyd, took a motorcycle trip to Canada. They rode about 3,000 miles camping along the way. They had a great time. I know that Kelly really enjoyed being with his brothers and getting to know them a little better. Well, a guy that works with Jody made this poster of our Wild Hogs, I hope it comes through ok. Kelly will have to share some pictures of his trip and blog about some of his experiences on the trip. I do know that we need to remember that there are roaming charges for cell phones when you go out of the country. Our cell phone bill was almost double with roaming and extra charges for texts.
(L to R, Jody, Kelly, Rex and Boyd Ackerman)

6 quirky little things

2008-08-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Ok, I was tagged by my niece, Natalie. So the game is to tell 6 quirky things about your self that no one really knows and then tag some other people. So, here goes.
1. I would rather mow the lawn and work outside than do laundry or dishes.
2. I like to goof off with Kelly whenever I can. We have a date night scheduled once a week, but I try to get him to do more with me whenever I can, like go to the store, just so we can be together.
3. I dream about going to see a real broadway play someday.
4. I love to shoot my compound bow (archery) especially when I beat Kelly and the boys at the contests they make up.
5. I love to shoot my Springfield XD sub-compact 9mm handgun up in the mountains and at the gun range. (can you say redneck?)
6. I actually enjoy walking around (shopping) at Cabela's.

I don't know very many bloggers yet, i'm a newbie. (Kellie, i'll need your help to pass on the tags.) I tag Kellie, Brittany, Kelly.

First Day Of School

2008-08-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

The first day of school was August 19th. (ok, I'm behind, but I'm trying to catch up.) I did not get the traditional pics of Tylen and Chase, how they avoided that I'm not sure but here are Keaton 14, Cameron 12, and Caroline 10. Doesn't cam look thrilled. Caroline was kind of nervous because she got a teacher that has the reputation of being the mean one. Well when I asked her how the first day was, she replied, "Great, Mr. Robison has changed!" I guess that means he is cool. Keaton and Cameron also are enjoying 7th and 8th grades. Chase and Tylen are busy with Football and school.
I'll have to sneak some pics of them asap.
Kelly and I had a party (not really) when the kids went back to school. It was definately time. And Chelsea leaves next week, Sept 3rd, for BYU-I. We will miss her, but it is time for her to go.
Alisha

PS - my pics won't load, i'll keep trying. sorry

IPhone Fiascio

2008-08-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

Recently, it was my birthday. Yep, 1 year older, but NOT wiser. So, I wanted a new cell phone. I had been looking at the Blackberry Curve, but I also really thought I'd like the Iphone. Well, Kelly, the sweetheart he is took me to the Apple store at the Gateway, and stood in line with me for an IPhone. We only had to wait about 20min. So, I thought it was pretty cool, sync'd it with my itunes and had all my music on it. Really, I hated it! I was excited thinking I'd have all this music to play with and make ringtones, etc. Well, you can't, you have to go through I tunes. So, here is all this music that I already own, but I have to buy ringtones. UH, UH! Then, I took a picture one day and spent about an hour trying to figure out how to text it to Kelly. Guess what....You can't. You have to attach it to an email. Not everyone has email on their cell phones. Kind of defeats my purpose of having a picture phone. And because I have nails, it was very hard to text with. Let's just say, I didn't really like it.
So, today, I left work early and headed down to the Gateway again to return my phone. Luckily I called ahead because you have to schedule an appointment for that kind of thing. (my advise, avoid the apple store at all costs) So, I had an appointment at 2:40. I had Kelly call the AT&T store at the Gateway to tell them what I was doing and have a phone ready for me. I got to the Apple store at about 2:25 and checked in. At 3:30 they finally called my name, then it took another 25 minutes or so to complete the return. They told me I was good to go. So, I head up to AT&T. Nope, no go. Now I have to wait for the reversal of my upgrade so that I can get my new phone. If I had done it through AT&T there wouldn't have been a problem. Well, luckily I still have my old phone and it will work fine for a few days.
The guy at Apple told me I was bold. Not sure exactly what he meant by that, Maybe he meant the B word. I guess not many people return the IPhone because they don't like it. But the guy behind me was doing the same thing I was.
Finally, If you want a cool new phone, I recommend the Blackbury. You can add all your music, do all the things you could with the Iphone and more. and you can use your own songs for ringtones. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Alisha's post

2008-08-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I have wanted to start a blog, and thanks to Kelly, he got the ball rolling. I am going to try to be good about posting pictures, and blogging, if for no other reason than family history.
The kids have been in school for a week now. Seems to be going well. Caroline was nervous about her teacher, she thought he might be mean. The first day I asked her how her day was. She replied, "great, Mr Robinson has changed!" I guess that means she is happy in the class. Chase and Tylen are playing football for Wasatch, both Varsity. Haven't been to a game yet since the first one was away. Keaton is in 8th grade. He tested well on his core math tests last year, so they wanted to move him ahead to Algebra. But he still needed to take some pre-algebra to get up to par. So he takes an early morning class 3 days a week until the end of the first term. Keaton and Cameron are busy with scouting. Chase and Tylen are working on their Eagle's. Kelly has been busy with Scuba and work. I just started my second class at Weber State. Anyone reading this who is young and hasn't finished college yet, do it while you are young. Your brain does not retain information when you are old.
Well, this is kind of random, but I needed to post. I am excited to add peoples blogs to ours and keep in touch this way.
Alisha

2008-08-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hey here it is lunchtime and I'm at work. thought I would update a little. The reunion was wonderful that we went to. it has been a long time since we had an Earl reunion. I was somewhat surprised to know that there are several cousins living fairly close to us in Heber. I need to now make the effort to say hi to them. Alisha and I are going to make a trip one of these weekends up to Mineral Basin up American Fork canyon. After we got home from the reunion we loaded up the Rhino and rode over to Snake Creek then over to mineral basin. We didn't have much time before it got dark so we are going to take a Saturday and do it again. we were able to see several nice bucks as well. that is one of our favorite past times is to go scouting for deer. I'm going to attach a couple of pictures of Rex, Jody and I from our trip to Canada. Gonna go for now.

Kelly

first posting

2008-08-04T21:27:00.000-07:00

Well here we are for our first blog. today is alisha's birthday she is the big 29. yeah you believe that? she warned me not to tell anyone. she has been a little spoiled this birthday. first she got a new Iphone. (she is still trying to figure out how to send text messages) then Saturday we took the Harley up to Smith and Edwards met Jody and bought her a new gun. She has turned into somewhat of a gun freak. She has her concealed carry permit but had no gun. She is now the proud owner of a new 9 mm handgun. then today we met my buddy Tex and took a ride up to Kamas. He has been in the market for a new motorcycle and found the perfect one. Some friends we have in Kamas were selling a 2004 Victory Kingpin. it has 5000 miles on it. He took it for a ride and was sold. So it's sitting in our garage til the weekend. then the kids gave leash their present. they all chipped in and bought her a bottle of expensive perfume that she wanted. So needless to say, she is happy. Tylen and Chase started 2 a day football practice this morning. Tylen threw up and chase lost his voice. I think that's pretty cool. ha ha. it's good for them to work hard. Chelsea and her boyfriend broke up today in preparation for him to go to utah state. then next month chelsea goes to BYU Idaho. She took it hard but will get over it. Our garden is starting to produce and we realize that we planted way too many pumpkin, squash and zuchinni. we already have way too much stuff. so if anyone wants some let me know. i will give you all you want. well how's that for the first posting. we will write more later.

Kelly and alisha