Shane Lexie and Morgan

Boy- We're having a boy?

2012-01-31T15:19:00.001-08:00

I'm still in shock.

Coming from a family of all girls I have been "pre-conditioned" to expect only girls being announced from the doctor’s office. I told Shane last night, "if there's a boy in here (pointing to my belly) I will be shocked"- and I am. Granted, the Chinese calendar said we would be having a boy- you should never argue with the Chinese! I had this feeling/impression that we were having a boy- but I didn’t want to be disappointed IF this little person was a girl and so I tried to keep my feelings to myself. (Even though I bought the cutest Captain America swimsuit combo on clearence in Oct. he he)

Now I can say it- I’m VERY EXCITED! Everyone tells me boys: A.)Are easy to raise. B.) Less complicated than girls. C.) Easy going. D.) More fun. The list could go on… but I think girls are all of those things! So this little boy should be just as easy right?

Having another little girl would have been fun- get to re-use all the darling stuff I have for Lexie, get matching bows and dresses!! (Ack- I need another girl too!) BUT I’m a thrilled beyond relief that this little man will get to start from scratch. And I do mean scratch. Having aunties close to Lexie’s age, we were blessed (heavily) with all of their hand-me-downs. But now, with two cousins just barely ahead of us, our little guy will need a bunch of new stuff- yippee! Oh how I love clearance shopping. :D
And to feel this baby move at last- oh how I love it! He doesn't karate-chop me like Lexie did. Instead, I get little butterflies in my stomach at random, like you do hitting a bump on the road. Oh it's fantastic, I love being pregnant. And now that I know what to call HIM- phew what a relief! Strange to call my belly him- he he. The rest of this pregnancy is downhill- time will fly. Yahoo!

*********
Word vomit- that’s what this post looks like- a bunch of splattered words mixed together in sentences- I'm sorry. You have no idea how hard this was to write down what I’m feeling right now- as I said, I’m still in shock.
But this little Miss is very excited about a baby coming to the family, and a boy- it's very cute. Yesterday when I told her we were going to take a picture of mommy's belly to see the baby she got excited. Couple hours later she saw a picture of an ultrasound and exclaimed, "baby". I guess she gets it. At the doc appointment today she was darling, oohing and aweing the whole time. She's going to be mama's very big helper. So lucky to have her.
******* This update is for Lindsey ******

OHHH and from the last post I have an update for my dear friend Lindsey who says she's checking my blog daily for an update…. I’m sorry for keeping you in suspense this whole time, and I’m sorry to keep putting you in suspense. To continue to keep it cryptic (again to save my own butt)… hmmm… we hit a bump in this long and exciting road ahead of us… so the plan is put on hold until the end of the Feb…therefore I’ll keep you posted. Sorry I can't be more specific.

Lots of love to my cyber family out there!

Spilling Guts

2012-01-17T20:40:00.001-08:00

I wish I could spill my guts right now- let's just say I can't to cover my butt... just in case.

BUTTTT I'm expecting some VERY important mail this week that will determine where a lot of my time will end up during nap time. So this sounds criptic right??

Believe me, if you're reading this- you're a true friend and can wait a little longer to hear the news? Please say yes!

Until then, I'm walking on cloud nine.

Talk/write to you soon...

The New Year

2012-01-05T10:50:00.001-08:00

The December 17th we celebrated Grandma Dewey's 80th birthday!

We celebrated the different decades of Grandma's life by discussing what happened in the era then dancing (with dance cards- awesome!) to a popular song... Lexie loved the dancing part.

Steven and Candace dancing together.

Took lots of family pictures- this ones a favorite!

Grandma's party was a blast and I took lots of notes so I can spring a massive bash for my mother when her times comes. :D

Speaking of mother's- we (and many other supportive family and friends- thank you!) attended the debut of "Could I Have Been There?" A Christmas Pageant that my mother wrote the script and 24 original songs for- and it was amazing! So proud of her and her many accomplishments.

Sisters at a live nativity.

Christmas Eve- Sinter Klaus (the Dutch Santa) came for a visit!

Lexie was thrilled to have Santa in our house and when he called her name to give her a gift (Pj's) she nearly dropped to the ground in excitement to get to him fast enough.

The precious moment of the night was when Santa was leaving Lexie waved and blew him kisses out the door then (without being prompted) said, "Thank you ho-ho."

Christmas morning- we went to church- wonderful, then when we got home took a million picture before we could open any presents. I know I'm an "adult" but it was torture! ha ha I just couldn't wait till Lexie opened her presents.

We all were spoiled in the gift department, and truly we feel so blessed to be so loved. It was a wonderful, wonderful time together this Christmas season.

Jazzy MADE Savannah and Lexie matching owls hats- sooo cool!

The week after Christmas, we played hard and lots- in between spells of the flu- UGH

Went to Temple Square as a family...

Went sledding lots- a favorite picture of mom and Lippy sledding.

Overall, it was a wonderful trip, glad to be with my family, but also glad to be home. :D

And now- for the fun news...

Today at our 15 week appointment we listened to our sweet baby's heartbeat.

Since all- and I mean ALL of my girlfriends who are due around the same time as me know what they're having (girls) and we all know the sex of the babies seem to go in waves- I'm very anxious for our ultra sound.

And so- Jan 31st is the appointment- and I'm not sure I can wait that long!

Okay, I can, and will- but phew!!

Shane jokes that he hopes his boy's swim team wins over the girls swimming team- but we'll see what happens. The Chinese calendar says we're having a boy (and you never argue with the Chinese)- but the thought of growing a boy??!!

We'll see if we're lucky enough to have another little girl that I can buy matching dresses and accessories with (soooo fun!) OR if we're extra luck enough that the heavens smiled down on the Widmer side of the family and gave us a boy! :D

...we'll see how this goes down!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T14:50:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from our little family to yours!

Fall in December

2011-12-13T21:33:00.000-08:00

There are so many perks to living in St. George! But how can I list them without making all of
you jealous? ;) So to keep it short- the weather. I love how it's December down here and really- it feels like autumn.

The leaves are falling which means... we play!

(Check out Lexie’s hair!! I’m especially proud because she’s finally letting

me play with her hair and in these pics she’s sporting a braided crown.

Like a princess of course!)

It's gotten a bit chilly down here so we're finally wearing pants (instead of shorts)...

and it never snows.

Don't get me wrong- I love, love the snow!

It's always nice to play in, but the disadvantages, are not fun!

For instance, I've truly forgotten how freak'n cold the weather is when it snows! Wowzer!

I’ve become such a pansy when we visit family up north. We don't have real winter play clothes for Lexie- coat, snow pants, gloves, boots, so when we do play in the snow, there's

lots of improv involved...

Our family with Shane's dad up Pine Valley (30 minutes away from S. G)- Christmas tree hunting- brrrrrrrrrrrr!

Note: Lexie’s double layer jacket, good-for-nothing gloves, and our favorite item- rain boots!

Our Charlie Brown Christmas tree.

In the forest it looked perfect but when we brought it home and put ONE ornament on and the whole tree tilts.... oops! Better luck picking out a bigger tree next time. :D

Have you and your family gone Christmas tree hunting?

Success with Santa

2011-12-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

Jesi and I were at the Ogden mall walked by Santa's workshop. It wasn't planned, but Santa was all alone, no line and it was free to visit him- so we dropped by. Unfortunatly, the sceme with Santa is to get a picture with him is $25 bucks. So we decided that Jesi would take Lexie and Greyson to him and I would hang out behind the bars to take a distant picture. How did it go? Well the video is below... The reason I stayed behind was to take a video, and since Lexie panicked Santa came to us- something he wasn't supposed to do, but he did. It was very kind! Baby Greyson, with Santa for the first time #2 Visit with Santa didn't go so well either. I didn't get a picture, just a video of her screaming at an arms length away from santa again. Poor gal! I guess visiting Santa during nap time isn't a good idea?

And visit #3 with Santa- a smile! The key? I put lip gloss on Lexie's lips and we practiced smiling, and rehersing what we'd say to Santa. We waited in line while a bunch of kids talked to Santa. Maybe she needed to see other kids visit him before she was okay? Whatever the case, I'm glad we got a smile!

And it's just the beginning of the month, we'll see what Santa adventures will happen before Christmas. Were you afraid of Santa when you were little?

First Visit with Santa

2011-12-01T15:58:00.000-08:00

Ketchup-Oct/Nov

2011-11-19T09:02:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been a month- phew that happened quick! Lots has happened around our house, so let's get started!

Shane turned 31! Happy birthday babe.

Dixie’s Homecoming weekend- my family came to visit and we had lots of fun. Went to my ward Halloween party, rode the carousel, went to the homecoming parade- Lexie was hilarious when they threw free candy at her! Awesome weekend! :D Bragging author moment:

New York's best time seller- Ally Condie came to St. George for a signing and conference and signed my books!! Her presentation about getting published was awesome, it was fun to learn from her perspective what helped her get an edge above other authors. Neat to learn some tricks and learn about her new book that wouldn't be released for three days- but they were selling it and I got that signed too!

So funny story- I wasn't finished with the first book when I came to the conference so my nose was burried in the book while I waited in line to enter the conference room. This older lady behind me said, "I could save you the trouble and tell you how it ends" ( I was 40 pages from finishing the first book) and I said, "No thanks, I'm got it last night and I'm so close." This younger lady beside me said, "That's impressive." And I said, "Well it's a great book, and I know it's going to end well, that's why I already bought the next book ." The younger lady smiled and said, "Glad you like it." I smiled back and before I knew it the line was moving and I was sitting on the front row, my nose still burried in the book. Couple minutes later, the conference is starting, I look up and.... the younger lady I spoke to eariler- was the author!!!! ha ha ha I had no idea! So yeah, I complimented the author and chatted with her for five minutes without knowing it. ha ha. Awesome nerdy-author day. :D

Tinkerbell and Daddy at the library's Halloween carnival- we’ll defiantly go again.

Offical Halloween picture- our little Tinkerbell

NOVEMBER:

Went to Greyson’s baby blessing- Thomas and Jesi’s little pumpkin.

Spent a week with my family- the girls are getting so good at the violin!

Lexie and I are currently spending the week with Jernae

Opening night of Breaking Dawn- Twilight blah blah blah
It was fun girly night in Ogden. :D

Lexie's Two!

2011-10-21T14:59:00.001-07:00

We had a Pinkalicious birthday party for Lexie's second birthday. ...

Shane helped with the house/balloon decorations and Candace madeLexie's cake and helped me frost the cupcakes. Some of Lexie's friends- David, Jake and Hadley- eating ring pops.

Lexie got a baby for her birthday.

As soon as we pulled the baby out, Lexie rocked the baby like she was crying- so cute!

Showing off her birthday duds at Grandma's.

Spoiled with chocolate goodies.

The Little Mermaid-

Grandma and Grandpa Dewey had an extra ticket and invited me to go with them. Unfortunatly it rained the entire time!!! So much in fact, we sat in our seats for thirty minutes praying (really hard on my part) that the rain would stop for three hours so I could see the play.
It didn't work. :( Guess I'll have to see this play on broadway-someday.

Waiting in the rain. Yep- it was that coooooold!

For Lexie's birthday, Grandma and Grandpa Dewey gave Lexie the Little Mermaid costume. Sooooo cute!

For Lexie's birthday meal we went to Arctic Circle for a corndog and shake. Needless to say, she was very pleased with her birthday. :D

Lexie's Growth

2011-10-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

Another year has passed and Lexie continues to grow and grow. Here are the favorite pictures (taken by the fabulous Kim) of Lexie through the two years. P.s I tried REALLY hard to keep this short. :D

October, 2009- Newborn pictures November, 2009- 2 months old

January, 2010- 4 months

March, 2010- 5 months (not taken by Kim- but adorable pic)

April, 2010- 6 months

May, 2010- 7 months

September, 2010- 11 months

February, 2011- 17 months

March, 2011- 18 monthsSeptember, 2011- 23 months

Time seriously flies wayyy too quickly. Can't express what a wonderful addition Lexie is to our family. Never knew I could love a little person as much as I do. So grateful to have her and look forward to the many adventures we'll share together as a family.

Hero Complete

2011-09-17T00:28:00.000-07:00

Let it be written tonight and recorded this morning... I FINISHED IT!!!

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This week has been fantastic! Had a wonderful, confidence building screenwritting class yesterday (more on that later) and tonight/early this morning- Ladies and Gen--mostly ladies, I finished my novel!

After hours and hours and soooooo many freak'n hours of editing and rewriting I did it! My novel is done. I can honestly say, Hero is different then how I originally wrote it, but it's soooo much better! The drama is thick, action- faster, relationships- more romantic and naturally- juicy! The pace of my novel quickened, and from what I've heard from my selected readers: finger-gripping, eyes-glued to the page- awesome! Yippee- success!

I can't wait to really dive into the details with people after they read my book, but first things first- I need to send off the novel to the agent. That's tomorrows project. :D I'm going to bed, (after my euphoria dies down) and in the morning I'm sending off the novel. *nail biting moments await!*

Don't worry, I'll keep you posted.

August Picture overload

2011-09-08T08:51:00.000-07:00

August was EXTREMLY busy for us!
Soooo here we go with the picture overload... In one day, Lexie and I went swimming with Aunt Heather and Uncle Ken at their friend's pool...

with cousin Austin and my sister Savannah.... then we drove all the way out to bountiful for Jesi's baby shower with the Dewey side.

Lexie holding Maddox- she loves, loves loves babies

Jesi's baby shower

I forgot to mention- Lexie played shoes with her favorite Aunt Brooklyn and...

played in the pool.

Then that evening we threw a surpise birthday party for Thomas!

Then on Sunday Whitney and Tyler blessed their little man- Maddox- phew what a weekend!So for FHE we had a little TLC and did Pedicures.

Neighbor friend, Paisley came over for popsicles the night before we took off to go camping.

Going camping in Torrey is a family tradiaiton so before heading up Boulder mountain for the week, we had lunch. Lexie had smile-fries.

We spent the week playing with cousin Kiera,

Harley in their little tent.

Shane and I went repelling down a waterfall.

Luckily no one was injured coming down the slippery slope, except me. :( The second time down the waterfall I slipped, knees hit the rock and my hand got caught under the rope with all my body weight pinning it against the rock while I swallowed buckets of waterfall . I made it down but didn't go down again.

Triumphant grin

Playing the volleyball pit. If only it was sand instead of hard dirt. :(

Taking the dogs for a walk. Thanks for bringing the dogs Ginger, I don't know what Lexie would have done otherwise. :D

Eating and playing with cousin Sidney at the end of our trip.

The day back from our trip we went to the back-to -school fair. Lexie enjoyed running amuck through the blow-up toys.

Had her first encounter with a blue snow cone - she loved it.

Lexie's first encounter with cotton candy also. She wasn't interested until we shoved it in her mouth, then she couldn't get enough. he he.
Grandma on her 76th birthday.

At the splash pad with friends. So grateful there's water parks and friends to play with.

And lastly, we started potty training. Lexie wanted to potty train in July, but I didn't want to start potty training until we got back from camping. Since the end of the month Lexie's been a big girl and has very few accidents! Yahoo!

And so, our August has been out-of-control-busy, but we enjoyed the trips. Now onto September- this month will be busy with job hunting (on Shane's end) perfecting potty skills(Lexie- thankfully!) and editing (Me). Did I tell you I signed up for a screenwriting class??? I'm thrilled to finish my novel this week, sent it off to the agen AND THEN take a class from the agent learning how to write screen plays. So I can double dip on the novel and movie making process. Awesome!! Okay, seriously- good bye for now!

Returning- eventually

2011-08-26T14:46:00.001-07:00

Dear blog family,

We've been busy this month, and my camera is dead.

Eventually I'll return with lots of pictures plus fun stories .

So, while I wait for the camera batteries to charge, I'll finish editing my book- yippee!

Chow for now- Morgan
P.s Here's a sneak peak of Lexie's 2nd birthday pictures.

The other amazing pictures will debut in a couple of weeks- closer to her birthday.

New Easter Pics

2011-08-03T01:17:00.000-07:00

New pictures of Lexie's Easter and 18 month old shoot by the fabulous Kim.

Can't say enough good things about Kim! Love all of these pictures dearly and wish she hadn't moved so far away. Can't wait to see her in a couple of weeks to get Lexie's 2 year old pics done. She's growing up too quickly. :(

Enjoy the new additions!

Thanks Kim!

July Happenings

2011-07-24T09:48:00.001-07:00

Fourth of July
Sparklers!

It's hot outside- so Shane made a tent for us to play in. :D

Playing

Curler Time!

She lasted a few hours... :(

Lexie put her babies and herself down for a nap. he he

Jesi's baby shower- (Doesn't she look so cute!?)

Steven made the wood wall-hanging

Penney, Candace and I made Jesi her baby blanket- nice and cozy.

24th of July- Stake Breakfast with Steven and Penney

Sand Hallow.

Lexie and I loved the warm water- I had no idea! It's like tub temperature.

Fantastic 1st experience.

Boat lounging

Family Pic

Building sand castels- Lexie was sooo cute helping daddy.

(Sand Hallow- 7/24/11)

Feet!

(Me, Lexie, Shane)

It's been a busy, but marvelous July!

Poppie Pics

2011-07-04T22:42:00.000-07:00

I've been in Highland for the last two weeks babysitting my sisters for a week then playing with my family for another week. While up north, Kim told me about this amazing place in Alpine that has wild poppies. So, I put sponge curlers in the girl's hair and took them up the mountain for pictures. Here are some of the favorites.

Can't believe Brooklyn is old enough to be baptised! 8 years go by so quick!

25th Birthday week

2011-06-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

25 reason (in the order they happened) why my birthday week rocked!
For my 25th birthday I requested the family went camping (1.) we went camping and used our christmas present- a massive camping kitchen for the first time=awesome! Although we went to Zion's and it was SO HOT! I thought I was going to have a heat stroke on Sunday-

(2.)there was a pool and we went swimming often.

Drove through Springdale, saw some interesting things- have you ever seen a tree covered in shoes? went shopping and (4.) ate icecream several times- it was delicious. (5.) Candace made for me a chocolate raspberry creme birthday cake- yummy!
Sunday (the day of my actual birthday) was pretty chill.

We did some tourist things, (6.) made delicious dutch oven meals- including my birthday cobbler- oh so yummy!

We all had a sunday nap- he he he, played the horse shoe game- very fun. And later that night, (7.) we opened presents, a wonderful thing to do!

Since we were out of cell phone service all weekend, on Monday when we returned- (8.)I got A TON of texts and voice mails wishing me a happy birthday plus all of those birthday wishes on facebook- WOW! Way to make a person loved, and Shane's cousin-Whitney- the one we threw the shower for- had her baby on my birthday. So now we share dates together, rather fun!

For the rest of the week, we hung out, met with my family at the Brigham Young home- Shane had never been. We (meaning me) anxiously waited for the following weekend when the birthday festivites would continue up north.

When we showed up to my parents house on saturday, all the doors were locked- since they're on vacation, BUT they forgot to give us a key! So Shane literally broke in- no broken glass thankfully, and we and the rest of Shane's family spent the night. Thankfully, we were able to squeeze in a couple of hours with Crystal and Rowan before bed. Thanks for visiting!

Sunday, we went to a Brandon's missionary homecoming, then drove back to my parents house so I could give my family their presents. Brooklyn just turned 8 and all she wanted was a babie- so she was very pleased with this gift- I was just as excited to give it to her! Liberty turns 5 this friday, but I gave her the present early- she loves twirly dresses. And we gave dad a card, jerky and bullets for father's day.

We drove all the way out to Ogden to spend the night at Thomas and Jesi's so that on Monday we could go to ..... LAGOON!!!

Since I didn't want to ruin my camera at Lagoon, or be responsible for it throughout the day, we took two pictures: a before the day of partying began and afterwards. Notice the change of people... ;D

(9.) There was a 60 % chance of rain, and so the crowds were minimal at lagoon and it was FANTASTIC!

(10.) By three in the afternoon we had ridden all the major rides, some of them twice and so

(11.) we went to Lagoona Beach- to further chill out for a couple hours- no lines either!

(12.) We had lots and lots and lots of laughs- my stomach ached from laughing so hard.

(13.) Butterflies- oh my word- the best feeling in the world!!

(14.) Did I mention there were literally NO LINES!? We boarded rides right away, hopped off then got back on right away- what more could a girl ask for??

(15.) Played bumper-cars three times and whip-lash hurts just as much then as it does today. (16.) Did I mention I had a babysitter the whole weekend? Shane's mom and brother watched Lexie Sunday night till Tues morning and it was FANTASTIC to play, have the day off, and feel like a kid again!

(17.) There were soooo many silly incidents and jokes that made my day totally and completly worth it! (The water bottle incident totally makes me laugh, I tried to line cut and got high-centered on the bar- yeah that was fun, Mallary couldn't stay on her tube at lagoona beach.... the list goes on and on...)
(18.) Hung out with the perfect people: Shane, myself, Candace, cousin, Brandon, BFF Jernae and her friend- Mallary (love her!) these people we excellent to hang out with! Soo many laughs!(19.) Didn't get sick, got dizzy, got a headache- but that's it. ;) Awesome!

(20.) The rides were just as awesome yesterday as I remember them several years ago- minus: Wild Mouse- ouch!! and the JetStar II that Shane nicknamed the Deathstar because it was painful all around.

(21.)) Got a Funnel Cake- never had one, was treated to one- therefore it was great!

(22.) We were at Lagoon all day and it sprinkled a couple of times, but had cloud cover the whole time- didn't even need sunblock. Yes, it was a bit cooler, and the water rides were WAY cold, but the minimal lines made it worth it!

(23.) Sang "Row, Row Row your boat" in a round with the girls while riding the Log water ride- oh the joys of being with your girlfriends!

(24.) Rattle Snake Rapids- we were all SO COLD, but had to go on the ride (we did all of the rides) and so we walked right up to the float and tried to remain as dry as possible, and had great success until the waterfall. Shane tried to dodge it and climbed ontop of Mal and Jernae, shielding them and got soaked. Poor kid was wet for several hours. ;)

(25.) I got a fluffy pink unicorn at the end of the night! Shane's mission was to "win" a fluffy unicorn, (reference Despicable Me) for me, but we settled for a Pink Pony. It's adorable and we gave it to Lexie and she LOVES it. Oh so cute!

Truly, the best, best, best birthday celebration ever!

May

2011-05-25T16:26:00.001-07:00

It's been too long since I updated the world on what's been happening over at our house. This month we've had a graduation, a work party, a wedding, funeral, and a baby shower to attend- talk about a jam packed month! Here's the favorite pictures:

Melted crayons! :( Guess it's hot down here.

Going to Penney's work party

Watermelon is a fav.

Waiting for the Bride and Groom

Brandon and Rachel Ray!

Some of the cousins

At another wedding reception that night. Fun-photo booth!

Dad reading to Lexie before bed- she loves being read to.

Hermine Briggs Horman, my grandmother, passed away May, 12, 2011.

The funeral services were lovely, the church jam-packed with friends, family and even General Authorities (Grandma served in the YW General Board for several years). President Boyd K. Packer spoke, and said such wonderful/funny things about my Grandma.

This picture was taken two years ago when I had a baby shower for Lexie. At the time, Grandma wasn't doing too well, yet she came, and these are my favorite pictures of her.

Grandma was such an accomplished woman. Graduated with a BA in English from BYU at 81. Last December Grandma finished her fourth published book. She has such wit, especially when she writes! I'm certain my love of writing came from her- and how thankful I am!

Oh how I love this woman!

This picture was taken a year ago, last memorial weekend. Grandma taught me to love music and enjoy performing. (she always "made" me give her a piano recital whenever we visited). The last month that she was in hospice, I played the piano for her in her home, and we constantly sang songs for her. Although I was and still am sad, that I said goodbye to Grandma last week, I know I will see her again. Until then, I miss you!

After the funeral, Shane left for St. George to work on Friday and I stayed for a baby shower:

Penney, Candace, Jesi and I decided to throw Shane's cousin- Whitney (still following?) a baby shower. The theme was "Spring Cleaning" and turned out wonderfully!

Can you believe this baby carriage? Penney is amazing! We also decorated Onesies and hung them on a clothes line- but I forgot to take a picture- believe me- it was darling!

Two baby-bumps. Whitney is due in June and Jesi in September both having boys!

Baby blanket Candace, Penney and I made for Whitney using a bunch of fabric scraps I had from previous projects. Turned out awesome and sooooo soft- the best! ;)

Lexie, Penney Aunt Diane and Grandma Dewey

That pretty much sums up May- phew! We've been busy.

But don't worry- I got some writing squeezed in there too! Emily (the amazingly talented editor) sent me her edits, I made changes then sent off the next 100 pages to her and my other amazingly talented, context approver- editor Jesi! (What would I do without these gals?)

Things are going well in the Dewey home. Got a camping trip/my birthday celebration planned, and a mission homecoming/Lagoon trip planned...

June is going to be busy! But I'm excited!!!

Graduated

2011-05-13T23:39:00.000-07:00

Shane and Candace Graduated!!!

So proud of them both and their hard work.

Lots of family to support them... Widmer'sDewey family with representation from the Kenney side
Although the graduation was LITERALLY HOURS long- (started at 2, walked out of the ceremony at 5:30 and yes it was horrible to sit through all of this mumbo-humbo graduation stuff especially with a bunch of little kids and the AC freezing us to death.... ugh. I was happy to be at Graduation for the first two hours because President Monson was there. It's funny- the moment he got up to speak, the flashes from cameras were nuts! I don't know how he was able to speak with such pose when the flashes did not cease- wow!

President Monson's talk was wonderful focusing on the Bridges of a happy life. Cliff note version:

1.) Attitude: man alters his life and others by altering his attitude.

2.)Integrity: swimming against the current of modern fads is a good thing.

3.) Service: sucess is measure by the people that you serve.

Wonderfully delievered talk. President Monson was darling waving at the audience and joking around with the President of Dixie. It was an honor to hear him speak and I'm thankful I could have been there. More to pictures and stories of this weekend to come later!

Announcing...

2011-05-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

So excited for them! (Did I mention President Monson is speaking at Graduation?- He will make the "boring" graduation ceremony totally worth it.) Congrats to Candace and Shaner!

Graduation- did I mention it's next week?

2011-04-28T16:56:00.000-07:00

ahhh the music, the robes, the precession of graduates, the customs of our days..... am I the only one that thinks they are a snore? I would rather vomit, babysit a bunch of crying babies, or run a marathon then sit for the hours of drawn-out speeches of "advice" or people bawling their eyes out about the best years we spent at _______ (fill in the blanks).

I hate hate hate graduation!

So far, I've gone to too many to count. High school grad- at least three different ones.

My Associate grad (thankfully Shane and I graduated at the same time- two birds with one stone- but I still detested graduation- my mother-in-law even fell asleep int he audience- we've got proof)

I "got out of" Jernae's and Jesi's bachelor graduations (a point I'm not entirly sorry I missed... oops!)

And now- Candace's Associate and Shane's BS (he he) graduation.

So I admit, I'm not looking forward to the new form of graduation going on at Dixie. This whole- meeting at 2 and then the individual department graduation at 4? The only thing I care about is how long will I be sitting in a hard chair?

Am I awful? Perhaps. But, let's not mistake my sarcasm as non-supportive. OH BOY! Let's not go there. This semester I've been extremely supportive to Shane and his schooling. In fact, I just sent off Shane's massive- 35 page capstone paper. That not only have I spent too many hours editing in his behalf, but editing usually leads to me doing A LOT of rewriting so the real question is- "who wrote Shane's paper?"

I'm not going to point fingers, but his paper was turned down twice (because it wasn't complete enough- credit to shane- he sent a rough draft), but once I got my hands on it- there's no way they're going to turn this puppy away. And rightfully so- graduation is next week and so is his presentation... Therefore- the paper is done, we both worked on it A LOT and it's almost behind us.

****massive deep breath***

Although I hate graduations with a passion- I'm really looking forward to next weeks!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-21T10:05:00.001-07:00

Thanks Kim for the picture. Miss you!

March Luck and Fun

2011-03-30T12:21:00.001-07:00

The last of March went by too quickly. I've been busy with everything and nothing and neglected to give a shout out to Shaner-Pants on March 11th.....

Happy 5th Anniversary Baby!

We went to Mongolian BBQ (if you haven't been here by Outback Steakhouse- you need to go). Lexie had her first fortune cookie- you can tell she's real happy about it. :D For the rest of March- my Aunt Heather and Unkle Ken were in town- so we all went to lunch. Real fun to see them in our neck of the woods. Lexie discovered a new love and a new word- BUBBLES! Though- don't mention the word or else she expects them to make an appearence. Thankfully- doing dishes, laundry, washing our hands and even blowing bubbles makes her a happy camper. Oh how we love her!New member to the family- I adopted a flower. Sooo pretty! And yes- it was dead after 2 weeks but I hope that has nothing to do with me.. .. .. maybe. OH and this.. ... it would take took long to explain. Let's just say- don't walk away from your stove while boiling water. Eventually the water evaporates, melts to the stovetop and you'll loose a teapot, stove circle- thing and an oven mit.. ... yeah for learning experiences! Oh and this- the BEST view outside our window. The bloosoms were only around for a couple of days- but they are lovely!!!

And now- an update on Morgan in three categories: Daughter, Mother, Author

Daughter: I'm heading up North for a couple of weeks. Left wednesday and will be back in the middle of April sometime. I've got lots of family things to do, (bridal shower, wedding) plus Lexie misses her little aunties so we're spending some time to play with them.

Mother: Found some fun fabric in the remnants bin and I'm deciding on making Lexie a skirt or a whole outfit... we shall see. But the fabric is darling! Oh and by the way- anyone see Tangled? Wonderful little girl show! Bought it the day before I left and I loooove it! Can't wait to share it with my littler sisters and hear their laughfter.

Author: Finsihed the first hundred pages of my novel and sent it to the editor. Can I just say- this new edited version is sooooo much better!! More drama, mystery, suspense, uncomfortable situations and of course- love. I'm throughly enjoying this round of editing and look forward to more! (try 5 more rounds...) I got started on the next hundred pages and have hit a speed bump-were the major changes take place... ... hence there's lots of thinking and researching. I'll give you a clue where I'm looking- x men. I might be adding more suspicious characters. he he he he

Family Pictures

2011-03-15T15:41:00.001-07:00

The complete Widmer family.

We sure love pink at our house!The Younger Crew

The First GrandaughterA Cute Family

The Big GirlsStanding by our TwinBrookyn and IJasmine and Paris Savannah and LibertyOur Family

Parsee, Brooklyn, and Lippy

The Whole Crew

Took a lot of effort to get everyone to cooperate in the cold- but we did it!

Thanks Kim for the amazing pictures. :D

February ScrapPics

2011-03-09T22:31:00.000-08:00

Week 8 & 9

I'm finally going to be an aunt! How exciting. :D Baby due in September.

Jesi asked us to pretend that it was our baby news until the end of their announcement DVD. Everyone was shocked and very supportive about the news. So exciting!

Uncle Stuart's favorite thing to do: make Lexie fly.

Celebrating April's birthday at Pirate Island. Great fun!

I wore this dress at Lexie's age.

Can't wait to curl her hair and see if we can replicate the same picture.

He he he these pictures make me laugh. She's hilarious in the grass.

Is it just Lexie or does every kids need a bath after their meal?

Trying to teach Lexie how to play on the playground.

Hero Update

2011-03-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

For those wondering...

Beginning of February I finally met with my agent in person. She read through the entire book (419 pages) a month ago and came back with edits, and ideas for me. Long story short- I got some amazing feedback and walked away feeling a little overwhelmed, but real excited.

This is almost the entire hard copy of my novel, all 63 chapters of it. :D

Dr. Western spent two hours with me reading over 60 pages of my novel and her notes. After we discussed how I could improve the book (ie: adding more drama in the characters lives, making the climactic moments in each chapter larger, and fiddling with dropping more mystery/hints- which I can't write about here without ruining the book for you. :D) Anyway, we called it good for the day.

And then I had a question, which then led into another question and suddenly I divulged the entire grand scheme for the next two- maybe three books. My agent's mouth drop in amazement (yippee!) she said she was impressed with my imagination, that if that was the chosen route for my book, we would need to do a bit more changes with the first novel to set it up better for the rest of the books... anyway we talked for another 30 minutes about rewriting the first (not too much, but a little) or instead of a paranormal romance, turning the novel into a fantasy adventure? and then I started to feel overwhelmed. There was so much that needed, and what I wanted to be done and yet, was it all going to be worth it? So I asked her to be honest with me.

And my agent (you know, the one who's buddy-buddy with Speilburg, written several screenplays, she knows her way around the industry) said "If I didn't think you were good enough, that this [story] wasn't good enough, I wouldn't have spent all this time with you." Then proceeded to tell me that she could see this project easily turn into a movie, or even a TV series! How cool is that? I mean seriously?!

So to all those nay-sayers, reality-checkers out there- don't bother with me- just be happy for me! I'm not crossing my fingers that I'll be the next Stephanie Meyers (however you spell her name) and if I don't- die. (Though I wouldn't be telling the truth if I didn't think it'd be cool.) All I'm saying is: I got AWESOME feedback on my novel from a professional, it felt wonderful and I'm working hard on the rewrite that will hopefully be done at the end of the month! Promise to keep you posted.

Week 6-7

2011-02-24T21:38:00.001-08:00

Week 4-5

2011-02-10T00:14:00.000-08:00

Continuing...

^^ The girly-Q I haven't seen since Junior High- such a wonderful, wonderful evening catching up with her like it was yesterday. Such a great gal. Wish we lived closer so we could hang out more.

Gosh- this has quite a story attached to it... let's just say, "Anything that could have gone wrong, did." A t least I got the picture before hand.

Parsiee making Lexie laugh while eating breakfast

Without fail- Lexie would eat her meal and then sit on Mom's lap to share hers. Oma was quite a good sport about it and always made extra to share.

He he he he before I even snapped this picture her eyes were fluttering in anticipation of the flash. Such a sweetheart!

Oh Snoopy and her (organic=runny) peanut butter. She made quite a mess trying to enjoy her banana with pb snack.

I had the chance to go to Shane's cousin's flute senior recital. One word= amazing! So impressed, she did a fantastic job. Glad I could have been there!

This is why I'll be having more than one girl- so I can dress them all alike!

Week 1-3

2011-02-09T23:41:00.000-08:00

Now that I've returned to St. George I've had a chance to catch up on scrapbooking! I've completely caught up to this currently week, but so I don't overwhelm you with a plethora of pictures, I'll just display the first three weeks of January... enjoy!

I think she was upset that I wasn't leaving her alone while she watched the children play on the playground. She was completely mesmerized!

As mentioned before- Jernae stayed and played with us for a week. Miss ya sis!

We decided to have our own photo shoot- and took some wonderful pics of eachother. I love this picture ^ ^ ^ such a model!

Love those slanted glasses! Love these girls!

Stay tuned for Weeks 4 and 5 to make their debut later!

....

Step Two

2011-02-08T10:30:00.001-08:00

After several weeks (nearly four Mondays) of being with my family, I'm in St. George again. Pictures will follow later of my adventures up North watching 4 pumpkin heads, but for now, I have GREAT news!!!!

Step two will commence on Saturday. My manuscript has finished going through the edits and THIS saturday I shall meet with my agent and discuss the changes, and the rewrites about to take place. Yes, I said rewrites, she hinted I have a lot of work ahead of me. I cross my fingers that Hero won't need a total re haul, but for now I'm excited to go to the meeting and get crackin'!

Wish me luck!

Chicken with no head

2011-01-29T19:19:00.000-08:00

A bit gruesome I know, but i've been all over the place this week and I'm exhausted.

Things I've learned this week:

1.) I HATE carpool!!! Driving and picking up kids at 9, 12:20 and 3:20 is not my idea of a day well spent.

2.) Most asked question: "Anyone seen Lexie?"

4.)Baby temper tantrum= "pay attention to me and hold me."

5.) Lexie weighs a million pounds.

6.) I never want to live anywhere but Saint George.

7.) Early to bed and early to rise does not suit me.

8.) Writing music intimidates me. I feel like since I graduated in Music and I feel people expect music writing to be a piece of cake for me. In theory writing is easy, but actually recording music and feeling good about the outcome? Totally different story.

9.) My love language: (Besides saying "I love you") Outward expressions of love. Ie: note/card writing, and texting and talking (most preferred) on the phone, surprises and service.

10.) Apparently when I'm stressed I write in lists?

11.) I'm ready to go home and so is Lexie. I miss Shane. And I miss being held and kissed. Although when home I see Shane an hour here and an hour there on the weekdays, I at least knew he was there. Could feel his warmth in the bed and could snuggle up to him in the middle of the night if I wasn't too tired to move. Sigh!

12.) I never EVER EVER want to be a single parent. I have no idea how I'll handle having another kid, but they won't come in a litter, (Heavenly Father knows what he's doing) so again- one child at a time is a good thing.

Bright notes:

1.) A friend I haven't seen in 10 years (gosh I sound old!) came over this week and we chatted and laughed like old pals. Emily hasn't changed a bit from how I remember her bubbly personality in junior high and she was truly a breath of fresh air, a ray of sunshine on my hard week. THANK YOU! for dropping by Em. I can't wait to see you again this week. :D

2.) Mom and I are still going extremely strong in the song writing department- we've nearly finished a 7 page, 4 part harmony, crazy accompaniment, choir piece. The writing is all recorded on Finale, and the plan is to get all of these songs professionally recorded (mom knows people) and I can't WAIT to share these amazing pieces with everyone. We've been truly inspired with these songs.

3.) Shane is coming up this coming friday! I can't wait to see him, not on skype but in person. Just a couple more days- I can do it!

Week 3

2011-01-23T22:04:00.000-08:00

Deviating from the New Years resolution plan.

Before anyone gets their panties in a wad, let me explain why I'm deviating from posting my scrapbooking pages in just week three.... I'm not home, nor will I be until Feb. something.

Long story short: Mom called crying for help, and I came. Fortunately, Jernae was on her way up North so I hitched a ride and have been in Highland for this week and will stay until I need to go back to St. George. In a way I feel like Mary Poppins. There was a cry for help, and magically she flew in, has magical powers (wish I had those for cleaning!) and plays with the children. Only in this case, I didn't really fly over, there are four children, (including Lexie) instead of two obeying children, which kind of throws out my whole Mary Poppins thought process, however I do sing while we clean! Got to count for something right?

Anyway, I'm in Highland to assist my mother. Her immune system is seriously having issues, therefore she's constantly sick and having a second grader, kindergarten and a kid in preschool is quite tough on someone who's struggling to breathe let alone, cook, clean, be a mom, and do carpool. (Something I will have the pleasure of taking over this week- eek!) So I'm here to help mom and take these burdens/stresses off of her shoulders so she can get well. I'm not here to socialize (though a phone call/text from anyone would be nice, just don't expect a speedy response) I'm not here on vacation and I'm overwhelmed. It's hard jumping into being a mom to three additional people and then take over the housely duties too. So forgive me fellow bloggers if I happen to complain, or seem a little low. It's been a really, really hard first week. Keeping us in your prayers would be wonderful.

K I just read this over and I sound like SUCH A DOWNER! So, I can't post this without leaving good news. So here's the list:

1.) Book report: I have an agent and she's editing the first 100 pages. When she is finished reading, we'll meet up and discuss my novel and how I can better improve as a whole. AWESOME! Can't wait to get crack'n!

2.) The girls got the cutest Disney princess board game called "Pretty Pretty Princess" and the point is to collect the entire jewelry set in your color. Today, Lexie and I won and she wore all of the accessories, when I get my hands on the camera cord- I'll post her picture. Lexie did not want to wear the crown or the clip-on earrings and gives the cutest face. Made my day!

3.) Last night I went on a date with my parents to a play. Truthfully the "comedy" play was wretched, but I got out of the house and it was marvelous. Lexie has her first babysitter that wasn't related last night and did marvelously. Such a big girl.

4.) The other night, I found Lexie asleep in her crib with bum HIGH in the air and sucking in her sleep. I suppose she was hungry. I woke her up because I didn't want her swallowing all that air.

5.) Because of my family schedule- Lexie and I are no longer sleeping in till 10:30 and traded that time in for 7:30 (CRAP!!!!!) However, this means I go to bed earlier and am attempting to get Lexie in the hang of taking 2 naps a day. If she could sleep longer than an hour each time that would rock! (Still trying to teach my sisters screaming/fighting etc in front of Lexie's door is not very nice- especially at 6 in the morning... ... ;D)

6.) Brooklyn- almost 8 is the most adorable baby sitter and mother to Lexie in the world. Lexie likes being around her and they get along so nicely. It's sooo cute when Brooklyn gets home from school Lexie walks quickly over to Brooklyn because she missed her. It's a precious reunion that I never get tired of watching.

7.) I am healthy and with my family. They are not a burden WHATSOEVER its just been an emotional (on my end) week. Any love and support you feel so inspired to send my way- do so and thank you!

8.) Oh- we have a three man sauna at my house so everyday I sweat my brains out, and soak the towel. All in the name of de-toxing, so that's a good thing!

9.) A bunch of my friends have had babies the last week and a half and I enjoy looking at their adorable babies. Such perfect wonderful beings and I'm so thrilled for those new mommies.

10.) How could I forget??!? In all our spare time- during nap time instead of sleeping ourselves, mom and I have been writing a song. It's amazing and so dear to my heart, because it's a mother's lullaby to her newborn baby. Emotional lyrics and amazing, inspiring accompaniment. With this piece nearly done, mom and I were talking about another song she has lyrics too and then another song we'll put music too and it sounds AWESOME!!! in my head. I can't wait to figure out the 5 different melodies and counter melodies that sit on top of each other and build off one another to a fantastic climax! Oh it's wonderful to use another form of creativity and feel just as inspired writing music as I do when I write books.

This next month is going to be great! I know there will be ups and downs, but I guess that's a part of life too. Crossing my fingers there will be more ups then downs. :D Good night for now!

Week 2

2011-01-14T09:29:00.000-08:00

The weekly project:

My girlfriend Jernae has been at our house for almost a week and we've had a blast! Every year Jernae comes and stays a week at our place and we play and laugh the entire time she's here. Although having Lexie around this year is at times challenging, we still find time and ways to spend quality time together. This year- we've been scrap booking! While Lexie has a nap (usually a good 2-3 hours) we pull out our laptops and do some digital scrap booking.

Here are 2 pages I consider finished hopefully more will follow to share with you next week:

New Goals for the New Year

2011-01-07T23:57:00.001-08:00

Let's be serious about New Years resolutions....

Most of the time we forget the goals we made by February for the convenient purpose of our sanity. I however, have decided to make a few easy, obtainable goals.

1. Scrapbook SOMETHING every week and print it off then bind into a book at the end of the year. I am terribly behind from this last year and that needs to change today!

My darling and ever so talented friend Kim is doing the 365 picture project and that is just too intimidating to take a stunning picture and post it everyday SO my contribution shall be one, maybe two "stunning" (at least by my standard) pictures of our lives for the rest of this year.

There I said it! Now I suppose I'll have to follow through? :D I can do this!

All the Widmer family minus the Dewey's of course. :(

Not so hard right? ha ha, we shall see.

1.5 Another thought is a baby eating book. Lexie has this book that she absolutely loves of babies eating food. It is a revolting book of gnarly looking babies with food plastered all over their face with horrible jargon... but Lexie loves it. So I am going to replace that book of random babies eating gross food, of Lexie eating her own food. I'm sure she doesn't care, but at least I will enjoy looking at this new book more since it's of my little girl.

A goal for me:

2. Get my book published this year!

Currently my book is in the editing process by my agent- pretty cool to say out loud- or rather write out... Anyway, the editing process will go by quickly, but it's the turn over done on my part that we'll be waiting on. Hopefully, my agent won't suggest a total makeover on Hero, but I'm willing to put forth the time to make a splash into the literary world when the time is right!

A goal for the family:

3. Play more!

Shane works graves and goes to school during the day which leaves little time for family time. Therefore, the goal is when we're together to take advantage of where we live and be active as a family going on hikes, bike rides, going to the park (can't believe Lexie will actually be playing on playground by spring) swimming, the likes. It's going to be a fun year!

Goals for the couple:

4. Go to bed!

We're night owls. Now that we have a pumpkin head, (who thankfully sleeps in till 10-10:30 in the morning- yes I have an AMAZING baby!) we need to go to bed earlier.

5. Scripture study, family history and temple attendance.

There is no excuse- except life gets busy and when you break a habit, it's hard to get back into. This year will be different.

That's all the goals I can think of for right now. But I honestly believe these goals are easy enough that I won't "forget" about them by February. he he. Wish us luck!

Lexie's bragging update

2011-01-07T14:41:00.000-08:00

Update on the Lexie lou- and all of her many accomplishments!

Today she has become brave. Lexie is WALKING all over the place. Before she'd crawl and then stand for a minute, take a couple of steps and then plop on the floor, clap for herself (so much better than crying every time) and then crawl to her destination. Now, however she is walking and deciding where she's going, and getting there slowly- but walking just the same. It's sooooo cute to see her little mind turn as she thinks (at least that's what I think she's doing) and then turn on her little feet and then walks again.

Some days it's wonderful, magnificent and awe inspiring to be a parent. The realization that this little person, who's thinking and acting all on their own is something you helped create. Lexie is happy most of the time, sleeps her nights and days away THANK YOU! plays quietly in her crib most days and makes me laugh, giggle and sometimes snort with glee when I watch her destroy the just cleaned room and explore on her own.

Anxious to see the pictures I'm trying to take of her and those funny faces!

Lexie has one repetitive word in her vocabulary. "Hi" She says hello to strangers, family, mom and dad and constantly on the phone. Lexie points and repeatedly says "hi" when she wants something. This is a habit we're trying hard to break by saying other words like: Mama Dada, ball, oh-o, amen are said sometimes she however, is sticking to "hi" for now.

Lexie understands and obeys when I say: kick, shake, sit down, fetch (since she already sounds like a dog!) Lexie is learning to give wonderful hugs, and knows where her lips are- and gives great kisses on the cheek and lips. She giggles when we do eskimo kisses (nose) and butterfly kisses (eyelashes fluttering). Lexie knows where her nose and head are. Soon we'll be singing "heads shoulders knees and toes".

Speaking of music- Lexie is still very much musically inclined. When music with a good beat plays, she shakes her whole body and rotates her hands. The other day she was kneeling while dancing and rose her hands above her head in a "raise the roof" fashion. We all had a good laugh. (Lexie still has an outrageous fake laugh, which only make Shane and I laugh harder).

I think we should all eat like this- more zest for our food I suppose. :D

Lexie has 11 teeth, three of which are massive molars and the fourth will come eventually. Lexie folds her arms when it's time for a prayer and says a form of amen at the end. She understands hot and blows, but is never patient enough to wait. Lexie is currently trying to feed herself with a fork and spoon- now those pictures are funny! She signs "all done" by waving her hands in front of her after a meal. And still enjoys reading books- yippee! Regularly closes doors- no smashed fingers yet! Lexie loves to tickle and makes the cutest sound when she tickles our feet. She's a stair champion and especially loves throwing things (especially Dad's bag full of 15 soccer balls) down the stairs.

Spaghetti is a challenging food to eat

For Christmas, Lexie got a bunch of farm animals and can tell you what sounds a dog, duck and pig make and sometimes shares a cow, and chicken sound with us. Eventually I'll record all of her sounds and share them with you. And the last thing on my mind is this: Lexie is learning how to work a computer, tv remotes, Wii controlers, dishwasher, and the camera and enjoys sitting on big kid couches and chairs. Non of these things are on my wish list of things she needs to know, but since we use these things I suppose it's only natural for her to pick it up?

Sitting in the big girl chair.

Gosh that was a long list. But she's such a smart girl, I don't want to miss on giving her a shout-out on all the amazing things she's accomplishing in her little life. Afterall- I have to show proof of all the things I do at home right? It's not all soaps and bon bons over here- it's work! But I love it, and couldn't ask for a better job then with this little honey bee!

December Partying

2011-01-02T21:04:00.000-08:00

Making Christmas Cookies:

Can't tell we're sisters can ya?

Wearing our matching aprons from last Christmas.

Kenney Christmas party:

Lexie loves Santa... ... maybe next year she'll be happy to see him?

The babies of 2009 on the Kenney side...

Aiden- March, Gus-August, Lexie- October, Kyra-November

Christmas card I made for my Mother

After Church Pics:

This picture is for Jernae- thanks for the DARLING Christmas coat!

Family pictures- Penney's Happy New Year picture below

Family Indoor Soccer:

Shaner in action

Christmas Puma shoes for Lexie.

Did I mention Lexie is kind of walking? She's does the frankenstein walk around the room and the other day she kicked the ball while she walked. Our little soccer player in action.

Jesi and I supporting our family on the soccer field

Stuart Shane and Thomas

This last Saturday the family went to the college and played indoor soccer together (meaning I actually got to play) and it was a blast! Family time is the best, Christmas time is a great time to be together and spend time with one another. I'm thankful for my family, I'm thankful for Shane's family and so grateful for our little family.

Happy New Year!

Good news minute

2010-12-21T00:12:00.000-08:00

I GOT AN OFFER FROM AN AGENT ON MY BOOK!!

So, as many of you know, I've been working on this fantastic book called Hero- title still debatable... Anyway, I've been working EXTREMELY HARD on this book for several years in-between life experiences. And now, after many years of hard hard work, I took a class, felt courage and submitted my manuscript to this amazing agency that my professor/agency founder (who constantly rubs shoulders with Spielberg) Soooo after agonizing MONTHS of checking my e-mail at least three times a day, hoping, wishing and praying for a response from this agency, I finally got a response and ta da!!!!

I got an offer!!!

Here are the highlights from her letter about my book:

We have now had an opportunity of reading HERO. Your writing keeps improving and we feel very strongly this is a book that has a great possiblity of selling.

Lots of business talk about some editing that needs to take place- fyi- no matter how much you edit your book, you will ALWAYS find problems! and then she ended with this happy note:

I am very proud of the way your work is developing. Hero is definitely a worthy project.

Right away, I wrote back declining the offer... kidding! Naturally, I wrote back telling her "I am thrilled that you see the potential of my book Hero. I am anxious to work with you and your company." and asked for more details. I'm pretty sure nothing will happen until Christmas is over and we're into the new year, but for now- this is my exciting news!

In short: I got an offer from an amazing agent, yes I will pay a bit out of pocket in the beginning, but the pay off later will be oh so worth it!! To hold my book, something tangible in my hands that has brought so much joy, and effort. I look forward to the new year and to these exciting new experiences!!

Thanks for the love and support from close and a far! I'm soooo blessed to have each and every one of you, my reader's, support and encouragement! Thanks again! (and p.s if you didn't get a phone call from me the second AFTER I read the e-mail it's because you (Jernae, Jesi) go to bed WAY too early! he he

Good night!!

Morgan- future author. :D (Feeling excellent right now!!)

Thanksgiving pics

2010-12-09T23:35:00.001-08:00

This year we made it to Salt Lake for Thanksgiving- yeah! Although we had to dash home late Saturday night to avoid a looming snowstorm that ended up being awful, we took some great pics in before we left. :D

Jesi decided to try her hand in musical theatre this year and tried out for Christmas Carol. She not only received a speaking part, participated as a dancer but ALSO got a dance solo! Way to make a splash into theatre Jesi!

While we were at Jesi's play, Lexie had an accident. :( Poor gal slipped on the top stair and hit her eye on the hardwood floor. Her shiner was just so pretty, I took a couple pictures as the bruise got more lovely through the week as it healed.

Violin Concert

Before we drove home Saturday night, we were treated to a violin concert. My mom is very talented in the music department and plays a lot of instruments, violin being one of them. So my sisters had a their violin recital and showed off their blooming gifts. So proud of these girls for all their hard work. And the violins are just so cute and little!

Sinter Klaas

My dad is German, but served his mission in Holland and so on the 5th of Dec. we celebrate Sinter Klaas which is similar to Santa Clause in the Netherlands. Traditionally speaking, Sinter Klaas visits the homes of all the children while riding a white horse and gets help from Schwatze Pete. If you've been good, Sinter Klaas leaves treats in the wooden shoes you've left outside, but if you've been bad, Pete, his helper will steal the naughty children and ship them off to the America's! (Now we know where all those illegal immigrants came from!)

This was Lexie's first Sinter Klaas celebratory party and the first that my little sister's will remember. Great food, awesome recital, and wonderful entertainment provided by Sinter Klaas himself. Unfortunately, I didn't take any family pictures of us with our chocolate letters... Guess we'll have to take care of that next year! :D

Pays to be persistent- fingers still crossed

2010-12-07T00:20:00.000-08:00

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I finally heard something. Yippee Skippee!!!!!!!!

Okay so I literally just read this e-mail and it's exciting okay- cut me some slack and instead of trying to pull me from cloud nine- do jump splits for me instead!!!!!

Here's the e-mail:

Dear Morgan:

I managed to wrestle HERO out of a pile of 43 submissions and piles of editing, and now it's rescued, I will read it as quickly as I can and get back to you, hopefully before the holidays.

Best wishes, Dr. Western MWA

Alrighty folks- moral of the story: it pays to be persistent even if it's just an e-mail that says- got your e-mail. YEAH!!!

Off to bed. Thanks for the prayers, loves, hugs and jump splits in my behalf. :D

Keep'n it Short and Sweet

2010-12-06T10:05:00.001-08:00

Still waiting... on the book that is. Sent an e-mail today asking for the status on my novel. It's been a month since my submission and I haven't heard if the novel was received let alone reviewed. And so- the e-mail is off and sitting at their desk. I was told I'd know within the week of submitting my novel and now that 4 weeks has passed- I'm anxious! I don't know how you do it Jernae! I mean, serious patience!!!

Eventually I'll get to telling you about Thanksgiving and how Lexie got her first (of many self-induced) shiner!

What Lexie Does...

2010-11-22T10:32:00.000-08:00

Being a stay at home mom is the best job I have ever had. I get to spend time with this little honey and she makes me laugh everyday just by being the curious little girl that she is.

In pictures, here's the update of what she's been up too this month....

I got another calling in our ward and you'll be surprised what it is- choir pianist. ;) SO, I practice the piano- and Lexie plays right along side of me. She'll be quite the musician when she grows up- naturally. :D

Lexie lou hanging out at Daddy's soccer game. Shane joined a "Mexican League" that plays every saturday and is glad to be back on the soccer field and we're happy to watch him.

Lexie was "helping" me organize and create new bows for her head.

This is what happens when I leave the room for a minute.

New hiding place discovered

"In my own little corner... " (Shane took this great picture)

"... in my own little chair...."

(Shane emptied her toy bucket and put her inside. She actually liked this seat for a bit.)

"I can be whatever I want to be..." a chef.

I have a kitchen drawer of cooking stuff that I use, that is also baby safe.

Lexie loves helping me cook with her stuff. She has excellent stirring skills when she concentrates hard with her tongue hanging out.

With Thanksgiving around the corner it seems appropriate I share a few things I'm thankful for at the close of this blog post:

Oh how grateful I am to have a camera to capture all the darling things Lexie does when I'm with her. How thankful I am to have a computer to write this up, and internet to share and communicate with those far and wide from here. How thankful I am to be a stay at home mom, and have a husband that sees the importance of our children being raised by their mother and not his parents or mine. How thankful I am for his job that allows me to be a stay at home mother. I have the best, hardest, but most rewarding job of all. How grateful I am to be me and to have this darling little family and wonderful extended family apart of my life. I have been spoiled with love and I'm so thankful!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

Travel safe, until we meet again!

Novel Good News

2010-11-19T13:33:00.001-08:00

Dear friends and supportive fan club,

I went to my class last night and was told my novel made it through my teacher and went onto her associate agent. So- made it through the door and onto the second step of getting accepted into her agency and on my way to publication!

Last night I learned that my teacher's agency is the most successful agency on the West Coast outside of LA and gets hit with over 700 submissions a week! However, they only accept the best, ie: previously published and only consider her students if they're in her advanced writing class. SO- the good news is I fit in both of those categories and my novel submission takes precedence over other solicited work! Yippee for me!

Dr. Western called me a talented writer and said her prego agent must have had a bad week- hence the lack of e-mail I and three other classmates have received. BUT not to fear- the e-mail will come shortly. Now to prevent myself from checking my e-mail account every hour! ... ...

Keep your fingers crossed and a prayer in your heart for me! This is going to happen. It'll be one crazy ride, but so fun and oh so worth it!

Writing cliffnotes

2010-11-11T19:30:00.000-08:00

Hi. I've been sitting at the computer for 5 days straight. Thankfully, Steven (Shane's dad) has been home from Rock Springs and has watched Lexie ALL DAY for me so that can write. Thank heavens he's here! There is no way I could have accomplished this "small" task without him.

The short end of the LONG story: my teacher/amazing person/published author/screenwriter/future lit agent... LOVED the first chapter and last chapter of my book. She called it fascinating and sellable. (Yeah me!) However, she highly suggested that since my book is a first and I don't have a fan club outside the family- that I need to shave some pages off. Taking a 560 page book and cut it to 400 or less. Impossible? No, but a ton TON TON of work reading through the entire novel and taking and tightening paragraphs and quickening action... hence my tired bum, sore muscles and short blog post- yeah for you. ;)

And so- I did it! I did it! I did it!!! I edited and completely sped up the book and carried the plot adding more depth... basically this new draft rocks and that's great. And so- I sent off the manuscript tonight (ten minutes ago hence the over exuberant rant), so she can send it to her non-biased editors and in one week, the week of my final class I should have good news to report. *crossing the fingers, saying a prayer and nearly bawling*

This week has been hard on me emotionally cutting up my baby (the book of course), and of course physically as I've been on the computer all day, my mind nearly exploding with exhaustion every night. It's been hard, but I did it! I passed on the manuscript and it's out of my hands... for a bit anyway. Say a little prayer for me! And we'll chat later.

Inquiring Oct.

2010-11-02T08:58:00.001-07:00

Just in case you have been wondering where I've been... here's the list...

Partying!

Savannah, Lexie and I went to a smashing party dressed as princess. :D The best part about this party was Tegan (Kim Cooper's Ariel) followed Savannah and I around asking, "Snow White where are you going?" "Sleeping Beauty what are you doing?" Thanks for making our night!

Thanks for the picture April!

Entertaining- a pumpkin head

Learning- family history style

This is my Widmer family crest- how cool is this?

I need to do more research on what everything means, but it sure is cool!

How about- Cooking and cleaning which never ends!

Traveling...

to Rock Springs, Wyoming- an exciting 7 1/2 hour drive. Yippee!

How cool is this sign? This store was started 4 generations ago. As in...

Shane's dad- Steven--> Joan (aka-Grandma Dewey)--> Edwin (aka Great Grandpa James)--> Thomas (aka Great Great Grandpa James)

Grandma and Grandpa Dewey taking care of the front office. Check out all of those animal heads in the background! Serious hunters up here.

Traveling

to Pinedale, Wyoming

(the location to where my book takes place)

Random 60 horses trotting down Pine Street (their main street) heading for winter pasture. Made our trip even more awesome!

Researching:

as a family... such wonderful family support!

Investigating:

a real hotel I use in my book- cool to see it in person.
Sighting:

found a whole herd of antelope on our way out and caught this guy mid-air jumping over a fence.

Visiting:

family in Rock Springs, Wyoming

Complete Dewey family together for the last time for two years

(until Adam gets back from Oklahoma)

Shane- the flash. Morgan- Sleeping Beauty/Aura. Lexie pie- Tinkerbell

The grown girls: Aunt Diane, Morgan, Candace, Jesi, Whitney

Crafting:

Lexie lou's trick or treat bag I made for her. This is just the cute decal I added to the print. :D

When Jesi was here two weekends ago- she and Thomas did most of the work and I painted for minute before Lexie got up. :D

Another great Jesi craft she added to my minimal Halloween decorations. Thanks sista!

Babysitting:

Lexie trapped Hadly against the wall- had to take a pic.

Paisley thought the bar behind the stroller was a seat, Lexie helped.

Gosh all of these picture make Lexie look like a child bully.

Lots of other things happened this month, but I don't have any more pictures to show ya... so for now, see ya next time!

Birthday Bash

2010-10-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

... and the week of visitors

This last month has been crazy! Lots of visitors and tons was accomplished, but by Sunday I was ready to pass out. Hence the ever so late blog post!

Oct. 6th Lexie turned ONE and Grandma Dewey- Penney dropped by to wish the girly Q happy birthday.

Jesi was at our place for a week doing lots of crafts with me and it was a blast to have a different creative outlet with my sister in law.

And then, my parents came into town! Thank heavens we have a bigger place now to place bums!

Brooklyn (7) reading to Lexie. They are both book worms, and it's darling

Shane turned 30 on Oct. 16th and I thought that was a good excuse to throw a BIG party for Lexie and for Shane. (But according to the girl friendly decorations and cake- Shane thinks the party was mostly for Lexie...)

Birthday Crew specialists. Candace made the cake- Jesi and I helped a little with the fondant. Jesi made the ever so cool fondant bow on top. ANd I made the sugar free/baby friendly Lexie cake. :D

Lexie cuddled with each item of clothing she got. It was darling!

The birthday folks

Not quite sure what she thinks about the candle.

Then she dug in. Grandma Penney had to show her how to get started.

Three little pigs sleeping on the hide-a-bed down stairs. So thankful to have the room at our new place!

Unfortunatly, my family had to leave for Salt Lake Sunday. So we said our farewells at the temple visitor center after we walked through the guest artist exhibit of the Book of Mormon. These were amazing pictures! Real cool.

Well- thanks for the visits everyone! Let's party again. :D

Reflection-Oct. 6th 2009

2010-10-06T17:15:00.000-07:00

Lexie is one years old today- officially in four minutes- 6:03. I don’t think parents look forward to getting old, let alone having their children get old, but it happens. Lexie is cuter today than she was a year ago. I remember when I first saw her. I didn’t even know what to do. I know what I should do- hold her, but my hands were frozen and my eyes staring at the child two people in love had created. I couldn’t believe my body made something so perfect. I knew my body was capable of making a baby- I had the belly bump to prove it! But, the fact that she was in my arms, living, breathing, ten fingers, ten toes, and squeaking on my chest... simply amazing.

Although Lexie and I were “womb-mates” for 9 months, actually seeing her, feeling and seeing her on the outside, was simply amazing! As a newborn she was a sleeping, eating, burping and pooping champ- a seriously good baby. And since I’m a bit biased- I think she came out cute and continued to beautify these last 12 months. :D

Reflecting on Lexie’s first year isn’t hard, since it’s still fresh in the mind. I remember functioning and limited amounts of sleep, wanting to pass out often and then the baby waking me up in the middle of the night. I remember eating breakfast a week after Lexie was born with Shane and seeing the bags under his eyes, I probably sported the same ones. I remember smiling- “We’re total idiots for thinking this would be easy! This parenting thing is hard!”

I mentioned before- Lexie was a fantastic baby- which she was, it’s just Shane and I had never been parents and the lack of sleep, dancing to someone else’s drum was a bit tough. However, it was during Lexie’s 2 month photo shoot with Kim that I sighed thinking, “I think I’m getting the hang of this.” So for future reference, after the first 8 weeks it gets easier and they smile back at you. The wonderful moment in a parents life is when that baby intentionally smiles at you because they know who you are.

And then there comes the laughing. Oh man! Is there anything more contagious than a babies laugh? Shane makes me laugh often because he’s such a great guy, but when he has me and Lexie rolling, now that’s a real party! The sitting up, the crawling, standing up, cheesy smiles, peach or /avocado/beans/ squash- whatever food facials and walking. All these milestones are apart of life I like to call an adventure. Soon, Lexie will be standing on her own and then walking on her own. She’s already a champ climbing up and down the stairs- she’s such a busy body. And amidst all of the tough times (playing the “why are you crabby game?”colds, teething- to name a few) there are those moments where your baby, where my Lexie gives back in a wave, or blowing kisses, getting exciting and jabbering away in nonsense syllables, or just laughing when I do something stupid.

It is wonderful to be a parent, a little intimidating to be responsible for this one soul, but that’s why you are not alone. There’s your spouse, family, extended family and then there’s Heavenly Father, the best Father to ask for advice. Shane and I have truly been blessed this year.

This blog post of Lexie’s birth celebration cannot end without a few notes of gratitude:

Shane’s family and my family: THANK YOU! Your love for us and our Lexie, advice, babysitting, clothes, and spoiling our little girl. All the above has made this a wonderful year.

Love my mommy who was there for Lexie's first week of life. She was my life saver!

What would I do without these people? Seriously? Stuart and Shane are the only ones that can put Lexie to sleep on their lap while rocking out to rock band! he he

And to my Lexie- Thank you for being such a wonderful baby and letting me sleep in past nine almost every day! Saintly daughter! We “hit a home run” with you being our first kiddy. You make wanting another child easy to think about. (Key word is think! .. .. in due time!)

Lastly to my Shane:

Shane,you have been an excellent partner in caring for our little girl. The way you read books to our little girl is simply put- entertaining. Thank you for caring for us by going to school and getting good grades so we can move on from this phase in our life. And by going to a crappy houred job. This too shall pass! For showing me our lives don’t have to end when we have a child, that we can still make goals and accomplish lots. You’ve held my hand and believed in me when I struggled. I love you more today then I did a year ago. You are a wonderful, wonderful father, spouse and my best friend. I love you baby.

This and That

2010-10-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when Shane puts Lexie to sleep.. ..

I find them both asleep. :D

Lexie was having a bad day and so Shane and I went on a drive to put Lexie to sleep.

We ended up driving past the Mountain Meadow Massacre and I decided to race up to the monument for a brief picture.

Around the bend to the top of the monument.

The monument

This the new addition to the family- the jogging stroller! Brand new it's a $180 stroller and I got it for $25! How do you ask? .. .. I'm good like that. :D

No, I went to a sports consignment store and bought their "damaged" floor model.

I led him to believe the situation was seriously problematic, then with the stroller in my car- I went to Ace hardware, bought some new backpack straps and sewed them on and ta-da!

Problem solved. And Lexie and I love love it! Stroller's in great shape and it rocks!

As well as jogging, Lexie also likes too... help daddy make things.

"Read" books

Look'n extra cute!

This is Lexie's new Halloween outfit.

Lexie has been smiling BIG AND WIDE lately.

This is the process she goes through before we see a real cheesy grin.

Oh she makes me laugh!

More 1 yr pics

2010-09-30T14:45:00.001-07:00

I just got another batch of new pics from Kim and I had to post them! Here's the new favs:

Sigh- I just love this one!

Lexie's One Yr. Pics

2010-09-27T09:05:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I have a talented photographer friend- Kim Henrie. She took all of these adorable pics of Lexie for her 1st birthday that is less than a week and a half away. Gosh- where'd the time go? :( Anyway, I couldn't pick just one picture- it's just too hard. So enjoy the Lexie montage for a bit. :D

We needed a balloon anchor- Shane's yellow mustang fit perfectly!

That's all for now folks!

Hope you have a wonderful wonderful day!

A Hero bite

2010-09-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

I got a bite from a literary agent!!!!!!!!

(Yes I'm this excited and any of those who don't like punctuation marks- should not continue to read.)

So it has been a week since I've sent off my first manuscript and query letter to a lit agent and I've haven't stopped bitting my nails. Okay, I don't bite my nails, but I seriously check my e-mail account all the time to see if I've got a reply.

Tonight I went to my class and my professor (literary agent) handed back the first chapter and she LOVED IT! Which of course makes me happy. But the best part is, she told me that I have an excellent hook (what captures the reader's interest from the beginning) and that I'm an advanced writer (sweet!) AND requested the rest of my manuscript!

Naturally, I'm thrilled and she said that she's going to keep her eye on me. There were limited edits on the copy of my book she gave back to me so that's a good sign. I stayed after to class to ask her what the * on top of my paper was and she said I was the only one that received one that night. Meaning- she thinks that my book is a winner" and I told her that I agreed. :D And that with a little bit of editing, this book will be ready for PUBLICATION!!!!!!!!!!!

So I know, this is a little early to rant and rave about my success but I just thought I'd let the blogging world know- Morgan Dewey's book- Hero- will be coming to a bookstore near you very soon!

Miss'n the baby baby

2010-09-22T12:55:00.000-07:00

Two weeks from now Lexie will be one years old. On the 16th of October we'll be having a massive birthday bash for her and for Shane on his 30th birthday. Well last weekend I had my ever-so-talented-girlfriend Kim take Lexie's one year pictures and they are adorable. But, as I'm looking at them I think "where did the time go?"

Another year has come and gone so quickly and my little honey-bee is all grown up. It makes me sad, and makes me happy. I'm one of those weird people who want their kid to stay a baby for at least 2 years. Lexie- has other plans. She's working on her 8th tooth, possibly her molars- kill me know! (okay not really, but she's been a monster and that hasn't been fun this week). Anyway, Lexie is growing up and it's tragic because I love her this way sooo much. But, the flip side to this story is Lexie will get older and she'll be able to do more fun things with us. Either way I look at it, Lexie will grow up and I should just enjoy every stage she's in.

Nov. 9th- Lexie's a month old cuddling on our bed.

Last night- Sept. 21, 10 cuddling in her big girl crib

She's just soooo long! And you should note the hair color- blonde is the new black. :D

Who doesn't love a baby bum?

Not really a baby bum anymore.

Okay, she isn't a toddler but she is certainly bigger than she was at a month old.

Those big padded bums need a good tap now and then anyway.

Lexie and Shane making faces at the camera today. They don't plan to have the same reactions at the same time, but that's usually how it happens.

We love our Shaner.

Bit of Good News

2010-09-16T22:04:00.000-07:00

We have internet... finally! But for some reason, I can't get Facebook- like ever. So forgive me if you write on my wall and I never answer back. Something needs to happen, but for now, I'm happy to have the limited amount of internet that I do.

So now for the good news

Dun du dun!!!!

I just sent my very first manuscript to a literary agent!

(insert applause, pat on the back, whooping and hollering here)

So, I went to my first class of this Writing Novels Advanced course tonight and it's amazing! This professor is not only a literary agent, a published author, but she's also written many screenplays for motion picture films that have made it to the BIG SCREEN and I just read the highlights of her resume. She's amazing and I just sent her my first three chapters of my book. (Below)

Anyway, I'm reeeeaaaalllyyyyy excited. For the billionth time, I re-read the first 25 pages and edited the guts out of them again, and hopefully within a week I'll know what she thinks. Keep your fingers crossed.

This is just the beginning of great things. :D

Admittedly, I'm addicted to the written word

2010-09-05T20:50:00.000-07:00

Something different...

On my blog I talk a lot about Lexie because it's a safe subject to talk about and really- everyone loves baby pictures especially when they're so dang cute! But on a different note, I'm going to share something about myself, something deep.... that makes the butterflies in my stomach do the tango.. .. I'm an author.

Some of you know that I write, and some don't. I love english, am a book worm, have a wild imagination and even a broken computer keyboard didn't stop me from writing in the third grade. I haven't stopped writing since- though my computers have upgraded- thankfully! That said, I have some BIG news to share!

I love school, I love reading and writing and now I'm going to do both.

Back tracking:

- When my music degree was taking WAYYYYY too long to come around, I turned to my second love- English- as my bachelors degree. Three semesters away from graduating with my bachelors in English Lit. Emphasis, Music finally became a degree and I graduated with the first class. Although I love Music, I miss English. In fact, I was excited for Shane to go back to school so I could "grade" and "help" write his papers- that's how much I love to write.

Well, going back to Dixie College for an additional degree is outrageously expensive since it's all out of pocket.. .. therefore last year I went to school 8 months pregnant for a month and a half just to get one last semester of school and perhaps get my feet in the door. And it paid off, I got published! Yes, it was just an article, but getting a piece published is just the start of getting books published. And now, I have the opportunity to go back to school for cheap!!

Next week I'm starting a 8 week class called Advanced Novel Writing that is taught by a Literary Agent- who is looking for clients! Yippee. .. And so, this class will help me with my novel writing, just to make sure I've got all my ducks in a row, but this is also an opportinuty to get an agent, or use connections to get an agent. Anyway, it's a miracle we had the money to "blow" on this class, that my sis in law doesn't have to work on a thursday night and that this class is within walking distance since we still have one car and Shane is still working graves... This is the Lord's tender mercy and allowing me to have this opportunity and I'm just thrilled to go back to school.

(Cover made wonderfully by my sis in law)

This is my book! No, it's not published but it's in the works. The genre of my book is: paranormal romance. In one sentence I would describe it as: "The Prince and Me" meets X-Man's character Storm. And let me tell you, that's just scraping the surface of this amazing plot! (insert chills right here).

I've finally finished the hard-copy edit and it took forever because this book is huge! (Try 550 ish pages) And this is just the first of a three part series. I've been writing this book off and on for 4 years while I've been in school, practicing the piano a billion hours a week, working, being a wife, a new mother... the list goes on. Anyway, this is my passion and one day I'll send you all a link on where you can buy this amazing book. And so, to tease you a tad- here is a snipit of Hero....

***

“A life lived in fear is a life half lived.”

-Unknown

Prologue

She tenderly moved a stray strand of light chestnut hair across his forehead. The still figure inhaled deeply as she tucked a curl behind his ear and placed a delicate kiss on his chilled cheek.

I don’t know if I can leave like this… she thought as she backed away from his bed and wiped the tear that rolled down her face. I have to keep him safe…I have to…” she repeated with more urgency.

The moon shone through the window and spotlighted her dark figure solemnly glide from his four poster bed to the large bay window. She looked at her reflection in the glass and hardly recognized the face staring back. It was gray and lifeless. She avoided the worried look in her gloomy stare. Liquid pooled at the bottom of her eyelids as she jiggled the stiff hotel window open with her sleeve tucked around her hand.

Delicate snowflakes flew harmlessly inside as she lifted one foot out of the window. Hurried footsteps from outside his bedroom door made her heart race. Not wanting her presence to be traced later, she covered her hand once again, and carefully touched the window sill. She slipped her other foot out into the icy winter night and jumped into the swirl of snowflakes unseen and unheard.

***

There you have it- that's the prologue of Hero- what do you think?

Aug. Update

2010-09-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

August Update

The Dewey family is doing great.

Shane started school and has been hunting for his buck for the last two weeks.

Morgan is still trying to decorate the townhouse- it's taking some time, but the good news is all of my project are almost done! And then I'll post pictures! Yippee. :D

Lexie sprouted 2 more teeth in a week bringing her teeth count to 7! Gads, she has a whole mouthful and yes, I'm still breast-feeding although I can count on one hand the times she's bitten me. :D Things are good.

Lexie is eating more solids and is loving everything we've given her- which is no surprise since rice cereal isn't all that great.

Peas, beans, sweet potatoes, bananas are constantly in her hair- that little monkey! But she loves food!

This is a carrot- looks more like a cheeto since it's whittled down by her chops.

Doesn't her hair look red here? She was born with pitch black hair and in some pics it looks red? We shall see what happens here.

Lexie loving her bananas.

As I've mentioned before, when I was growing up I wrote in my journal that I would never marry an athlete or a hunter. "The heart wants what it wants" and I fell for Shane the MIGHTY HUNTER.

Last year during the archery season Shane got a tag and 8.5 months pregnant I trekked the mountain side with him and it wasn't that bad. :D Anyway, this year Shane, Steven and Stuart have spent several days waking up at the crack of dawn to trail the mountainside for big bucks. Eventually everyone has to go back to work and fortunately Shane doesn't have class on Friday and he went early morning hunting. I was surprised when he texted me with the good news this morning.

To save someone for embarrassment- This is called a 4x4- means there's four points on each side. (I didn't know my first time around either) And yes, Shane took Ruby (our Fusion) hunting and stuffed a dang animal in the trunk! I told him if there was blood in the trunk he got to clean it up, and he will.

Shane the MIGHTY HUNTER

Canada Road Trip .5

2010-08-15T23:44:00.000-07:00

Hello all!

Yes, I know it's been wayyy too long since I've updated this blog, but I have good reasons- 1- We moved. 2- Because of number 1- we don't have internet and 3- We just got back from a 2 1/5 week vacation to Canada. Sigh- it's been a crazy summer.

I can't wait to show you our amazing TOWN HOUSE but alas, no pictures will be posted until my place gets a makeover from my personal interior designer- Jesi. :D So you'll have to wait to see those pics, so for now, I'll tell you about Canada. Alright- here are the pics of our latest adventure from July 22- August 8th!

Yeah we traveled too many miles to count, 17 hours one way in a motor home that goes 65 miles per hour on a good day and 25 up hill, saw amazing places and partied with old friends and took 500 pics- and I'm trying to keep it to a minimum... .. .. wish me luck!

First stop: Magrath

Long story short- My mom's mom (my grandma) was born and raised in Magrath, Alberta Canada because her ancestors established this little farming town.

And so every summer while my mom was growing up, Grandma would take the whole family back up to Magrath.

Thus, where my parents met. Dad's side of the story- his parents are German immigrants and moved to Canada since moving to the States was too expensive. My grandparents decided to settle in a little farming town called Magrath and my parents met for the first time when my dad a teen, my mom a little kid since they're 8 years apart, met again when mom was a teen, kept in touch, eventually dated for 8 years... and several more before mom had grown up enough for the two could get married. (Although that was along story- I promise it's MUCH MUCH longer. But isn't every love story a long and juicy one? Sigh- love it!)

And so tradition goes for my family that since Dad is from Magrath, his parents lived there until Oma passed away 2 years ago, my family and I go to Magrath and our other favorite places in Canada every summer. Although it's been wayyyyy too long since my family and I have visited Canada, we were able to go this year and dad's family could meet for the first time my little sisters- Brooklyn (7), Paris (6) and Liberty (4) and Shane and Lexie. This was a trip of lots and lots of introductions and new faces, but for me and my parents it was like coming home. Now that Shane has met my family and seen and experienced My Canada, I feel like I'm complete and Shane finally knows me. It's a pretty cool feeling.

Magrath's birthday is the 24th of July so we went to a parade got lots of candy, went to Magrath's museum, went to party then another party, then watched fireworks. It was a wonderful day.

Watching the parade- glad they're enjoying themselves. :D

Liberty, Paris and Brooklyn, they're not quite sure how catching candy at a parade works...

it's a good thing I showed them eh?

Uncle Kurt and his girlfriend- Elona- what a sweet woman! She was just darling with Lexie.
My cousin Sara who I haven't seen in 10 plus years? I've only recently connected with her on Facebook (modern technology is amazing!) and her mother- Auntie Mona, came to our 24th celebration too.

Aunti Mona, mom with Liberty, Mayte, Dad with Brooklyn and Georgie.

Lexie watching fireworks for the first time. And now, it was not that cold- but if you didn't want to be mosquito bait you covered up!

Magrath Genealogy: This part is for you April! Shane and I have recently been called as Family History Consultants which is ironic since I've never been on family search. This calling is also wonderful because genealogy is something that I've wanted to get into to help my dad get his family line complete.

My mom's side:

I'm not sure how far back this guys is from my mom but we found him in the Magrath city museum. Just a little bit of research and I'll have an answer for ya.

This guy is A.F. Briggs- not sure how he's related, but we're going to figure that out too!

Introducing- my relatives on my dad's side.

Gross Oma- (Great Grandma who's my Grandpa's mother)

Opa and Oma (Grandpa and Grandma)

Infant Widmer- my dad's still born baby sister

Catching up with friendsThe bully brothers- old college roomates that still get together whenever possible.
Always a grandma. Lexie was being a bit fussy, so Mayte's mother (who still calls me her little baby) took Lexie and cheered her up right away.
Becky, Megan and Mom.
Me, Annie Joe and Adam- both of Mayte's children.

Touring Lethbridge with Mayte

For several years my parents lived in Lethbridge and Mayte acted as our tour guide one day as she showed my parents the changes of the city and my parents. We checked out some of their old houses, new subdivisions, played at the park, went shopping and called it a day.

e "The Real Canadian Superstore" - new favorite shopping place. Their prices and selection was far better than Walmart. And yes, we spent hours shopping and had dinner in their parking lot. Motor home is our home on wheels, we eat where we want. :D

Shady Acres

Mayte's oldest son- Danny is married to Regen who is one of the top 5 Ammeter Rodeo and Horse trainer of Canada. *phew bit of a mouth full!) We went and checked out their little slice of heaven and unfortunately we weren't able to enjoy the massive bonefire or the hot tub due to a crazy storm. I mean, when I say crazy- the storm came to us within 5 minutes and lasted an hour with lightening going off like there was a strobe light outside our window, the rain pounding on the roof, the power went out and the fog was so thick Danny couldn't take home one of his friends. I felt like I was living in a horror film as I watched the storm from inside the house. Gave me the creeps, I half expected to see some limping zombie come down the drive way and pound on our door... ... told you have a crazy imagination. Needless to say- everyone enjoyed watching the storm except for me.
They had kittens all over the place. Paris and Mayte's granddaughter- Rachelle were great kitty catchers.

Huderiteville.

A huderite- easiest definition: They are similar to the Amish people (similar in dress and the people live the law of consecration) however the Huderites are very modern when it comes to their farming, sewing, cooking and electrical uses. So these people have: tractors, amazing farming equipment that they actually invent and sell to other farmers, sergers- every woman has to sew their own clothing so this is a must, kitchen aids... the list continues. These people don't associate with anyone outside their religious community, and the outside people aren't invited in their community unless you know a huderite. And a huderite is considered a celebrity if they know someone in the outside world.

So imagine if you will, our massive motor home coming down the dirt road towards the huderite houses. Everyone stops working, the children and the people come pouring out of their houses to see what is coming in their community. Immediately, we mentioned several Huderite names that we have know through my grandparents on both sides of the family and unfortunately only one person we knew was still alive. :(

We received a tour of their communal laundry, kitchen, dining hall and church facility all of which was covered top to bottom with white tile. Amazing place. They make 70 loafs of bread every 2 weeks for their community of 50 people.

There is so much about the Huderites that is different but in short, their traditions, religion and their way of life is very different from ours. They grow up speaking German and English. They go to school until 8th grade and then they go apprentice with their parents in their specific jobs weither it be out in the farm fields or in the kitchen. And no, they cannot change jobs unless their health requires a change. Girls from the age of 8 are assigned to babysit children until they have their own. Women if not assigned somewhere else in the community are assigned to cook meals until they are 46 years old. Church is every evening and the children eat before church and then the adults (male and female separated on opposite sides of the room) have dinner later. There is lots about these people that are different, but this is all off the top of my head at the moment so this list shall do for now.

The last living Huderite that our family knows. Kind of sad.

It was so funny. After the ladies gave us a tour of their home/community facilities, they asked to see inside the motor home. The first thing this lady asked was, "where do you do you laundry?" We told them at a laundry mat and she nodded her head. They wanted to know where everyone slept and how everything worked. Watching their faces was quite funny.

At the school- this girl (8) Monica, was just so dang cute. She wanted to hold Lexie so bad so we let her. Monica, and all of the girls were just darling with Lexie.

The Huderites are a bit Camera shy.

Funny story- I was looking through their books at the school and I asked one of the older girls what her favorite book was and she pointed to some well worn books on the top shelf. What was there? TWILIGHT! The whole series was there. And I just laughed. It was such a surprise to see those books in such a strict religious community. They told me those books were illiegal in their community but all the girls have read it anyway. So, I turned with my hand on my hips and said, "All right ladies, who's team Edward and who's team Jacob?" They all just gushed and told me who they voted for. ha ha there you have it Stephiane Meyer- your books made it through the Huderites strict rules too!

My favorite picture of that day. Doesn't matter what you believe, what you look like or what you are wearing- we are all the same inside. Proof!

Canola Fields- aren't these rolling hills just lovely?

Canada Road Trip I

2010-08-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

Waterton

Every summer since I was little my family and I would come to this town to camp for a week. It is by far my favorite place in Canada. The views, little town, little shop, the wildlife surrounding us and of course the memories of the summers I have spent there makes me crave this town. Love this place!

2 minutes into the National Park, we spot a bear (we think Grizzly?) off the road. Shane didn't even have to zoom the camera in- we were that close. Yes, we were in the motor home but it was crazy close!

Snow White Castle- more on this below. :D

Wildlife all around- it was strange for Shane to see the animals that were so person friendly. That's just a normal thing for Waterton.

We set up the tent while we were staying in the trailer for Lexie to play in to prevent getting attacked by mosquitos. Since Lexie is such a busy body- this was the perfect play pen for her.

Shane found some soccer players- or at least found a soccer ball to play around with.
Dad borrowed Georgie's Harley and took a ride up the canyon with mom.
Getting in some reading time.

On our scenic drive to the Red Rock Canyon where we could see red rock.. .. like we haven't seen that before. :0 Anyway, on this drive we spotted our SECOND bear! Shane was rather happy.

Another great memory of Waterton is the time that we spend with my dad's old college buddies. Georgie and Mayte Hufnagle are some of my dad's oldest pals and they go camping with us every time.

OH and did I mention Waterton has a castle? When I was little I called it Snow White's castle. Turns out the real name is "The Prince of Wales Hotel" so I was almost right. ;D

360 view of the Waterton Glacier on top of a mountain...

Can you see why I love this place? Spectacular views!

Snow White's Castle.

Canada Road Trip Part II

2010-08-15T21:55:00.000-07:00

Touring Calgary with Uncle Georg and Aunt Adrian

We went to this place called Spruce Meadows were people from all over the world come and "show off" off their horses in competitions. It was an spectacular place with amazing landscape and neat bronze sculptures all over the place.

Nap time is a glorious time in the motor home. Glad they like one another. :DCalgary Olympic Park

Uncle Georg loves babies, Lexie was being a little cabby though.

Auntie Adrian and the sistas.

The Scher Farm

Aside from my sisters, on the Widmer side I'm like the fifth from the youngest and yet I was the first one married. Lexie met her 2nd cousin who's 3 months younger than her for the first time. Jen is the mother who's married to Thomas (farmer family) who's my cousin.. *gasping for breath* and they've been together for 9 years, but got married three months after Shane and I and just had a baby Lucas. *sigh* that is all.

As many of you know, my dad is German and those Germans have different traditions some of which rock. Example A: The Schere family always have a all-you-can-eat shmorgishborg (honestly have no idea how to spell that) for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Shane made the observation that my Aunt Ede never left the kitchen the three days that we visited them because she was constantly cooking. Hmmmm just yummy!
This is called Coffee Time that takes place at 4:30-5ish in the evening. Usually this family of farmers have a massive lunch, go back out on the farm and work, have their coffee break at 5 in the evening and then go back outside to finish their evening chores. Since they had company they said they went a bit over the top on dessert- ya think? Though non of us complained. Just delicious!
Again, the Widmer family is quite dispersed in location and so they rarely get together unless it's for a funeral (sad I know) OR if my family is visiting. And so, the last time the Widmer family got together was when Oma (grandma) died 2 years ago- but my family wasn't there so the last time we saw this family was over 6 years ago. Things have changed a bit.

So my aunt and uncle live on a farm of just under 800 acres. They raise and sell pigs, some cattle and have lots of other animals for "the fun" of it. My family and I were able to spend three days with their family and before we left we got a tour of their farm and see their animals.

Shane took this lovely pic. I give him props.

Cute duckling.

Homemade Goose eggs- aren't these amazing? My aunt has geese just so she can have their eggs and have someone make them. She said she's made a few- just cool!

Banff

Another tourist trap, but gads this was an amazing place!

Banff Campsite- Brooklyn was ready for her training wheels to be removed. We're so proud of her!

We wore Lexie out shopping all day. Look close and you'll see the drool just hanging off her lip. :p cute little honey.
Glaciers everywhere we looked.

Mosquito heaven- right here! Thankfully we did not camp here.
A glacier run off- cool and just lovely.
The castle/ hotel that was nestled above the glacier run off. By the way- this is just a 1/4 of the castle pictured here. Wish we could have walked around in that hotel it looked amazing from the outside!

Canada Road Trip Part III

2010-08-15T19:12:00.000-07:00

Glacier Day

We spent all day on the most beautiful freeway in British Columbia and spotted glaciers the entire drive up the canyon to our final destination of a massive glacier.

I'll try not to bore you with all of the pictures we took, so I'll keep it to a few. .. .. or I'll try. :D

Lake Louise was the first stop on our day of Glacier viewing. This was an easy access/tourist friendly location. British Columbia (BC) has got their tourist figured out. Beside this lake was a massive look-alike castle/hotel and the view was just beautiful! We didn't dare ask how much a night was at the hotel.

Parsee the mermaid

Next stop- Crows Foot Glacier- the name explains itself. The middle claw/glacier fell therefore the middle claw isn't as large as it was several years ago.

My parents posing

Check out this water! Talk about blue. Sigh- it was just gorgeous to see these glacier fed rivers and lakes all along our drive.

Second stop- can't remember the name. :( Sorry. We had to hike a bit up a mountain to see this Glacier, but boy it was pretty. :D This is the most famous picture spot in the Glacier tour.

On our drive we spotted our THIRD bear! While we were driving to another glacier we looked down the road and this black bear was crossing the road. It took quite some time for the motor home to slow down - it was a close call- but we did not hit the bear. Phew!

As we're driving down the freeway, we thought these were the end of the tall mountains, but then we climbed the canyon further... ...
... we realized we weren't looking at peaks but the base of a massive, massive mountain. Just crazy! Made me feel a bit small.

Our final destination:

The Athabasca Glacier of the Columbian Ice fields. (Athabasca is just a branch off of the Colombian Icefield that melts into the Atlantic, Pacific and the Artic Ocean.) I mean we're talking huge! This glacier is thicker than the Effel Tower is tall.

This tree is 150 years old though it does not look like it. The weather is sooo cold there that the growing season is so short that the wildlife does not grow.

The glacier used to branch all the way to the trees but because of "global warming" through the years the glacier has receded in size etc... now it's not as long.

Amazing colors of the melting glacier. Our original plan was to ride this massive tram thing up the glacier to walk on it but we got to the place ten minutes after the last tram for the day. :( Sad day.

At least we got to hike to the base and the glacier run off was naturally cold.
Lexie slept the whole hike but woke up near the end. We had to take a pic to prove she was there.

Canada Road Trip IV

2010-08-15T18:17:00.000-07:00

Taking the long route home. :(

Something you don't see everyday- Animal crosswalks.

Because there is sooo much wildlife on both sides of the freeway, BC (Britsh Columbia) has made natural looking crosswalks for the animals to cross to avoid any animal massacres. Apparently the animals actually use these- pretty cool.

On our way home from Canada we stopped at several spots on the map to make the 17 hour drive not so long. We stopped in the middle of this canyon on the freeway in British Columbia (Canada) called Radium.

Radium Hot Springs:

This natural hot spring's water temp was 95 ish degrees. This was just the "hot" pool. The other pool was larger and had two slides. Radium was a wonderful place to spend a few hours at.

She's our little fish

Another pit stop:

A cute little German town- Kimberly. Unfortunately, we got there on a rainy evening so the night life was non-existent. :( Either way, the parts that we saw- darling town.

Sistas shopp'n- it's what we girls do best. :D

Shane drove from outside of Idaho Falls all the way to Highland (about 4 1/2 hours). What a stud.

Lexie pie- always a happy camper.

Snoopy wasn't feeling too peachy on the drive home. :(

The best thing about traveling in a motor home. :D

-Mom wants me to mention they didn't travel like this all the time- Dad drove most of the time and the children were in their car seats often.-

Redo- 20 Things

2010-07-18T20:37:00.000-07:00

Apparently my "20 things you may not know about me" wasn’t cool or deep enough... so let’s try this again!

And by the way- I am long winded. Although that may be something YOU know about me, I’m letting all of you know that I know that I am. :D

1. I am an uncertified, but highly experienced therapist.

2. When I’m angry and by myself I release my anger by screaming in my car or if I have company motor boat my lips. If I'm at home with company- I scream muffled by a pillow or towel. If you have some anger to release- give this method a try, it does wonders.

3. I love to cry. Okay, it sounds weird, but if I can’t scream out my emotion, crying is another wonderful technique.

4. The truth is I’m full of fear. Although as soon as I feel that fear is about to stop me from doing something- I intentionally do it, (within reason of course).

5. In my lifetime I have: been bitten by a gecko, stomped on by a goat, had my mitten eaten by a horse (tot), been bucked off a horse (8 ish) had my saddle slide under a running horse then my foot got caught in the stirrup and then dragged behind a horse (16), milked a cow, a goat and collected eggs (thank you Widmer farm), been stung by bees 3 different times in one day and yet I still scream whenever I see a spider.

6. I like to pick scabs and zits even if they aren’t my own. In fact, I wish I could walk around with a pin so I could pop those juicy white heads or huge black heads people let fester on their face.

7. I regret that I wasn’t more athletic when I was young. Being married to an athlete I hear what I missed out on and wither or not that’s true, it’d be nice to be invited to play with the siblings on a community soccer team every once and awhile.

8. I don’t like scruffy Shane as much as clean shaven Shane. He just looks totally different and old with his beard so whenever he shaves I joke that my boyfriend came home.

9. I wish I could fly.

10. I’m scared of the dark. Again- it’s my overactive imagination at work.

11. I can never finish a hamburger.

12. I can count on one hand how many nose bleeds I have had. (My first was snowmobile accident induced)

13. I am a saver. You give something i won’t use it for a long time. Take Chocolate for instance. There are currently 5 chocolate bars in our freezer that are a couple years old and it’s because I don’t want to eat them- I’m saving them. Shane jokes that he’s never going to buy me chocolate until all of those are gone, so i’m working on it!

14. Right before I perform a piano solo my hands get real sweaty and I rehearse the song in my head while my fingers thumb against my knee.

15. As many of you know I grew up with all sorts of music in our home, but lots and lots of musicals were in the mix. If you are familiar with Rogers and Hammerstein’s,”The King and I” you may appreciate this reference. “Whenever I feel afraid I whistle a happy tune.” or if I can’t whistle or hum or simply sing out loud, it’s in my head and I feel sooo much better!

16. When Shane drives I like to massage his ear, his neck, or play with his little head curls at the base of his neck.

17. I procrastinate bedtime every night. And when I wake up in the morning, I curse past Morgan for keeping me up too late.

18. Like most girls I had my eating disorder phase in high school. Even today I have my “I wish I were skinny” days but choose to eat instead of starve. Food is my friend. ;D

19. I don’t want to live where my kids are born. I would like to live in St. George after Shane graduates from school in the spring, but apart of me doesn’t want to live here since Lexie was born here. I’m weird. I know.

20. I love breast feeding and will truly be sad when Lexie decides she’s done.

20 Fantastical Things

2010-07-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

20 things you didn't know about Morgan...

I honestly didn't think I could come up with 20 things, and now I realize there is a lot about me that some if not all of my readers know about me. Soooo here we go! See how well you know me- Morgan.

I love to move and have moved 16 different times.
I was born in Lethbridge Alberta Canada but I am an "American Born Abroad Citizen".
I am German therefore at times I can be: impatient, seriously organized, stubborn (if I need to be), and punctual.. .. sometimes. :D
I understand German better than I speak it.
I am the oldest of 6 girls and my youngest sister just turned 4. So, my daughter and my youngest sister are 3 years apart.
Since I was little I knew what I wanted to be a stay at home mom and a piano teacher. And now I am both a mother, and can charge big bucks for piano lessons if I choose since I have the education.
I promised myself when I young that I would never EVER marry an athlete or a hunter and I got both! I guess you can't help who you fall in love with.
I love to perform. Any type of public speaking, singing a solo, piano solo- I'll do it!
I miss almost everything about pageants.
I love to have fun, play games, go camping, spend time in the outdoors, but I will NOT fish!
I love to create things, sew, scrapbook, cook, be on both ends of a camera, sing and dance- thankfully Shane has some moves and dances with me upon request.
I am a book worm. If it's a good book I'll put everything else in my world on hold until I'm through. Side note: When I was in Junior High I fell in love with the Hardy Boys books and read every book our school and several other public libraries had. Every night I would finish a book and that's when I learned the mystery book pattern.
I am a novelist. I have and continue to spend countless hours writing sappy but clean love stories, mystery stories, action/suspense books, I have a folder FULL of story ideas and outlines, and one day plan to have all of my books published. So keep a look out for my name!
I am a 3rd generation writer and musician.
I hate scary movies! I have a crazy enough imagination that I scare myself often, I don't need any outside material to fuel the fire.
I have the travel bug and intend to keep it properly fed. ;) I've been all over Europe and spent all my childhood summers in Canada camping, I've been to Hawaii, Florida, Caribbean and too many states in the US to count. And next week I'm taking Shane outside the country (Canada) to meet my Dad's side of the family for the first time. Yippee!
Chocolate is a must at my house. As long as I have chocolate available I don't want or crave it's chocolately goodness.
I love to laugh and watch Seinfeld.
I am what my dad calls a "swamp witch" since I use herbs, run to Dixie Nutrition instead of the doctor, and heal the emotional as well as physical health issues of my families or clients. I don't believe in doctors (unless they are administering an epidural- I'm such a pain pansy!)
And lastly- I hate hate hate spiders, snakes and all creepy crawly things!

The Zoo Part II

2010-07-06T20:56:00.000-07:00

Continue of my babysitting adventures in Highland....

June 28th- July 5th

My wonderful Aunt Heather took the girls off my hands for the weekend and Lexie and I chilled at home and it was WONDERFUL!

Lexie discovered herself in the mirror... she gave herself a smooch.

Aunt Jernae dropped by for the day on Saturday and Lexie and Jernae played in the mirror.

For a week Shane had to go back to St. George for work and I stayed with the sistas. Lots of things happened while Shane was gone that was good: Lexie started crawling, eating cereal more frequently, I went to a movie with the ladies, Jazzy and I set up the pool, the goat had babies...

Lexie's crawling in action.

Shane's cousin Jen, won 4 free tickets to the midnight showing of Eclipse and I was able to tag along with the sisters. It was a great show, but the company was truly what made the movie great. Let's do it again ladies!

Shane's cousins: Heather Genessy, Jen Jensen, Erica Peterson.

.... Several thing went wrong at the house while Shane was gone too, so when he got back to Highland I put him to work. But not before we had a BBQ with Thomas and Jesi.

The goat- Fancy's utter was utterly huge! One of the sides was almost dragging on the ground and I hadn't had a chance to milk Fancy so Shane milked her and was successful at getting a gallon of milk (that's a lot for a mother feeding twins).

When I was in 6th grade my dad made this swing set for my sisters and I and he made our heart swing. For years we've always had baby swings and this one swing, but as we got older we started to fight over this one adult swing. Last month our favorite swing broke and my idea was to take something off of my dad's honey-do list.

Shane went to work in St. George and when he came back up to Highland he brought back the gifts he made for Father's day... da- da- da!

Aren't they gorgeous?

Now everyone can swing. Oh so fun!

July 4th parade. Lexie's first parade in which she watched her Aunties wave on the princess float.

My sisters participated in the "Princess Float" on the 4th of July. Paris was the perfect Snow White, Brooklyn was sleeping beauty (middle) and Lippy- I believe said she was Belle from Beauty and the Beast... either way the girls were darling in the parade.

Brooklyn even waved while she sat in the princess float- so proud of her!

Although it was fun to spend 18 days with my little sisters I was very excited to return to St. George with Shane and then something happened...

We discovered a new insect/creature/thing!

Shane and I were driving from Highland to St. George and I looked up and spotted something in the windshield wipers... ... it was a MASSIVE, NO- HUGE bug! The craziest looking thing. It was like an radioactive super-sized nasty army ant and a flying creature mated and had this long legged creature! Ooh gross!!

So the tough part is I tried to take this picture before this insect thing escaped the grasp of our windshield wiper but the picture isn't good at all... ... either way I had to show you!

Our phone took a better picture of this creature than our our camera- so if you want to see what this thing really looked like- ask Shane to see it... Nasty stuff!

The zoo!

2010-06-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

June 5th- June 27th

Happy 24th birthday to me! We celebrated my birthday for I don't know, a week? As I mentioned before, I had my birthday up north with

Jernae and Jesi in Ogden, then with my family in Highland, and finally in St. George. It was a great birthday so thank you to everyone!

Lexie had her first and second

introduction to the pool. I was surprised how happy she was in the water, since I was terrified of the water for years. Anyway, Lexie is a fish and we had a blast swimming with her and look forward to lots of pool trips this summer to come.

Starting on July 18th, I have been

babysitting for my parents while they're in Europe. Long story short: Savannah moved to Switzerland for the summer and a miracle occurred in which my parents could join her until the 4th of July. And so, I have been keeping a daily log on my facebook status about my daily adventures since there is never EVER a dull day

here. :D

Lippy's 4th birthday:

At Candace's soccer game: (FYI Candace is on a semi-pro girls soccer team! How cool is that?) So all of us went to support Candace at one of her games in South Jordan.

Random sleep position: My sisters are just hillarious!

Baby goats were born! Besides taking care of 3 kids and a baby, I get to gather the chicken eggs, feed the chickens, the cats, the dog, the kids (naturally) and then Fancy the goat had her twins! Yeah- it's been crazy here!

And to top it all off- Lexie decided she

had to keep up with my sisters, so she pulled out all the stops and is currently crawling!! Yeah, church today was a blast since she's discovered that she can move around and everyones unguarded things are up for grabs! ha ha. :/

Although it's been tough going from being a mother to one to four children plus the animal dynamic it's also been a blessing. My sisters are tough at times to handle, (they are so loud) they have helped me realize I'm happy where I am in my life right now.

I have the best baby in the world. I really do- and I have such a supportive husband. I'm just so thankful for my little family. And this weekend my sisters have been gone with our aunt Heather (thank you, thank you, thank you!) and I've had a chance to reflect on this week of babysitting. It's been tough since Lexie's been teething and not her usual joyful self, and my sisters are a lot to handle, but I've realized what I have and know I'm thankful for Lexie and her little personality. And truthfully, in life one kid will be added after the other, not three at the same time (heaven forbid!) Basically- I'm happy for one, and when another one comes (a while from now) I will be able to handle that person too. .. Amen!

Lexie hanging out while I do the farm chores, Fuzz the dog watching her for me. :D

May through pics

2010-06-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a summary of what happened in May through pics.... here we go!

Savannah graduated from American Fork High School.

We were all at Savannah's graduation to support even though it was 3 1/2 hours long!!

My mom is an excellent whistler and I love this picture of Paris trying to whistle. :D

Memorial Day with the family.

Grandma and Grandpa Horman holding the first great grandson and daughter.

(Rushton- son of Jake and Melissa Spurlock)

Cousins Savannah and Jessica Fuller taking pictures near Aunt Shelley's headstone.

Savannah, Lexie and I went up to Ogden to spend a night over at Jernae's house. The crew playing on the floor with Lexie bear. :D

Jesi giving me my birthday present.

I got spoiled with lots of Mary Kay gear- thanks Jesi!

Darling picture of Savannah by a historic building in Ogden.

Got some amazing homemade ice cream from this John Deer perfect for that warm day.

The girls the final moment before we had to head home.

And to end on a funny note: you HAVE TO watch this home video! Featuring Lexie and my girlfriends baby, Paisley who's 2 months older then Lexie. I hope this video brings a smile to your face. It makes me laugh every time. :D