The Johnson Family

Heaven

2011-08-04T10:47:00.001-07:00

The Most IMPORTANT Meal of the DAY!

2011-08-04T10:45:00.001-07:00

The tans will fade, but the memories will last forever!

2011-08-04T10:39:00.001-07:00

Back in Time... March... Ella's Bday!

2011-05-22T08:38:00.000-07:00

I am trying to catch up on my blog, so we are rewinding time and going back to March, Ella's Birthday.
Ella is now 8, I can't hardly beleive it.
We surprised her with a trip to DisneyLand.
She had a sleepover with her best friends: Angie, Paris, Stratton, and Brooklynn (wishful thinking that my girls will be best friends... one day).

Beautiful, Simply Beautiful

2011-05-22T08:32:00.000-07:00

Kaden's First Birthday

2011-05-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

We feel so very lucky to have been able to throw Kaden his first birthday. Since the day he was born I wanted to throw him a Woody's Roundup birthday. As most of you know we are trying very hard to keep him in our lives, his Mom, my sister, is young and very much lost and his birth dad has only met him 3 times and thinks he wants Kade. That being said we have tried to savor every first with him. First Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentines, Easter and now his Birthday. My Mom and I made him his cakes; which was great to do together. Our family was all there and my best friend Kerri came to share this day with us. His Grandma Pat (Bry's Mom) made him his Johnson blanket; these blankets are very special and very loved by all the Grandkids. Kaden I loved you before you were born and hopefully we will have many more firsts together!

It All StArTeD WiTh A MoUsE!!!

2011-03-20T14:49:00.000-07:00

It Was so fitting that the first character we saw at Disneyland was MICKEY!!

We were all starving waiting for our turn at Areil's Grotto... Just then down the pier who do we spot Mickey! We ran to get in line and only had to wait 15 minutes! Here is a picture of the girls waiting!

TWinS

2011-03-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

I can't tell you how happy it makes me that Ella has a cousin and a bestfriend all rolled into one!!! It is something I have always wanted for my children. Ella and Megan are only 8 months apart and look so much alike (Aunt Jeanie called Ella Megan the other day and the girls thought it was GREAT) and they are so cute together; it is such a blessing just to see them together. I know Shari is smiling from Heaven to see this as well.

Oh how I Miss Long Runs

2011-01-18T11:22:00.000-08:00

The Wonders of Mutual Silence
01/18/2011 9:10 AM
Mark Remy

On Saturday morning, Warren and I ran 9 miles. Or 10. I'm still not sure; I wasn't wearing my Garmin.

I do know that we ran the Telephone Loop, so named because when viewed from overhead the route kind of, sort of resembles an old telephone headset. From Warren's house in Emmaus, we ran to 10th Street, then up 10th (an eye-popping climb); east to 5th Street; down 5th (a long descent); east to 2nd Street; up 2nd (another crazy climb); west onto Oak Hill Road (which is even steeper); down Oak Hill; east on Vera Cruz Road; up the back side of 2nd Street (a mile-long climb); then all the way back down 2nd to our starting point.

It was a brutal run. But a good one. As usual, we talked a lot, solving most of the world's problems and cracking jokes.

Until we got to Oak Hill.

The turn onto Oak Hill comes, as noted above, well into a tough climb. At that point we were both already gasping for air, in that desperate "I'm okay, not gasping, everything's cool" sort of way that men running together often gasp. With Oak Hill, the climb got even steeper.

As a result, we clammed up and just ran.

That's when the bliss kicked in.

Not the back-rub/aromatherapy/day-spa kind of bliss; the clarifying-pain/running-in-silence-with-a-friend kind. Which, for my money, is better.

Those moments are uniquely satisfying, aren't they? Suffering alongside a friend, in mutual silence, has a way of distilling your running — your life — to its essence.

In those moments, here is your world:

•The sound of breathing — loud, deep, and rhythmic.
•The sound of feet scuffing pavement.
•If it's cold, as it was Saturday, the sight of your own breath, escaping in puffs of vapor.
Suddenly — and it always seems sudden, at least to me — you find yourself in a bright, new place, free of mental fog and distracting chatter. It's like climbing above the tree line: You struggle to breathe, but there's an almost-startling sense of clarity.

Here were my thoughts, as we climbed in silence:

This hurts, but I am alive and lucky to be out here. Breathe deep. Run tall. Relax.

I'm not sure how long it took us to clear the top of Oak Hill — maybe 5 minutes? – but every step of it was painful. And instructive.

Thanks for the run, Warren.

Christmas Eve

2011-01-02T09:59:00.001-08:00

Grinch

2010-12-23T10:58:00.001-08:00

“And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow,
stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons.
It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags.
And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore.
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before.
What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store.
What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”

WhOViLle

2010-12-23T10:49:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we crashed another wards Christmas Party; It was AMAZING!!! They made it into the town of Whoville, they had Cindy's Candy Shop and the Whoville Bakery but the best part was the GRINCH. The Grinch is one of my Mother in Law's friends, he was great I wish I would of videoed it!

Be Gratefull 4s

2010-12-13T22:52:00.000-08:00

I had a Be Grateful 4 party a few weeks before Thanksgiving. We had Costco pot pie (Oh so Good) and Jeanie made her pies. Jeanie... Mrs. Norma Jean you make some classy pies. Pecan Pie oh how I love you.
I had everyone make a list of things we were grateful for... I wanted to know everything.... Michelle and I are grateful for DIET COKE.
I was sad because my Mr. Johnson forgot me.... really the months before I nursed you back to health.... I showered you... I have birthed your babies... All the TDY's I DON"T MAKE YOUR LIST!!!
This ended suddenly... Dave Fell... What... oh it's Dave... I know no one stronger... HE WILL BE FINE... he is doing what needs to be done... Healing... But my Michelle she is waiting. I instantly felt panic... panic for her... cuz I had been there or so I thought... weeks later our Dave died... what? so wrong??? I just don't understand... Nothing will be the same... not even a card game. I mourn him; I wish to have back all the opportunities we had to be together that we said no to... we were too busy... too hard with little ones....
Here are some of the pictures from my party:

Uncle David & Gerard's in Town!

2010-12-13T22:27:00.001-08:00

I alway's look forward to seeing Bry's brother David! David and Gerard live in Florida so we see them once a year. During their few days here they are packed so I have never just stood still with them; I want to know what they are like together, how they spent their time together. I am curious to see if Dave is like Bry... Just so many question marks???
Anyways... on the last night they were here they gave the girls PILLOW PETS!!!! the #1's on both kids list. The next day I asked Ella if we could go see Santa..... "but he will ask me what I want.... I don't want anything..... well maybe I will just tell him I still want one and than I'd have two.... but Mom 2 won't fit on my bed"

Pray... Pray... Pray....

2010-12-01T17:03:00.000-08:00

Pray... Pray... Pray....Pray... Pray... Pray....Pray... Pray... Pray....Pray... Pray... Pray....Pray... Pray... Pray....Pray... Pray... Pray....Pray... Pray... Pray....

Oh Brooklynn Rose

2010-11-29T17:23:00.000-08:00

Do you know how many times Brooklynn Rose you have broken my heart and ruined my day? I drop you off at daycare and you scream and cry and yells for me... Almost every time! Today you wanted to go to school and play in the snow with your friends. You made me so happy. You were ready to go before I was ready to take you. Thank you Brookie for making me so happy today.

Thankful For Day 5

2010-11-25T06:51:00.000-08:00

Ahhh... ThanksGiving.... The Big Day!
I have so much to write, I don't know where to start.
Family, Freedom, and food on the table!
Granny, you are a great woman. I am grateful for you!
I need to write more but I need to get ready to go make a fool of myself!!!! That's right... I Shannon Stuart is taking a Zumba class!

So, right now I am grateful for friends to laugh with or at... as this case may be!

Thankful For Day 4

2010-11-24T22:01:00.000-08:00

Today I'm having a hard time thinking of what I am grateful for... I have worked 20 hrs today and Bryan and I have not been getting along.
So Today I am grateful for having some one not to get a long with! At least I have someone to call Husband even if he is being a Huge JERKFACE!

Quit Dancing With Your Head!!!!

2010-11-23T19:35:00.000-08:00

Okay so I am changing Brookie's poopie pullup ("Look Mommy I did a big POOP!) and iCarly's opening theme song came on...
I know.you see
somehow the world will change to me
and be so wonderful!
Live life,breathe air
I know somehow were gonna
get there
and feel so wonder full
so while changing her stinky butt I'm singing the opening song to Brooklynn and you know what she says to me

MOMMY QUIT DANCING WITH YOUR HEAD!!!

RUDE!!

Thankful For Day 3

2010-11-23T19:33:00.000-08:00

DIET COKE
Oh how I love thee! I love thee so much; I consume high volumes of thee! I know you are not good for me but I am addicted and I will never give thee up!

Thankful For

2010-11-22T11:19:00.000-08:00

I am Thankful for Dave Brown. Dave you are a wonderful man who's strong both physically and spiritually. Every baby loves you and your spirit brings peace to any fussy baby. Know that you are in our prayers and in our thoughts; we are very proud of you and your fight.

ThankFul For Day 2

2010-11-22T07:37:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful that my kids have great cousins. I grew up with really no extended family in my life; so I am so grateful that my kids will have friends and family all rolled into one.

Thankful For Day 1

2010-11-21T10:02:00.000-08:00

Today I was laying in bed; I was awake but heck if I was going to get out of bed until the kids were awake! A few minutes later I heard both girls, Ella was laughing and Brookie was giggling like crazy about something or another. It is the very best way to start a day.
So today I am grateful for my children's laughter.

Be Thankful For The Thorns

2010-11-19T19:38:00.000-08:00

I found this story through my Beautiful Sister in Law Angie. I only posted the last half of the story.

Sandra sucked in her breath, as she thought about what her friend had tried to tell her. "I guess the truth is I don't want comfort. I've lost a baby and I'm angry with God."

Just then someone else walked in the shop.

"Hey, Phil!" the clerk greeted the balding, rotund man.

"My wife sent me in to get our usual Thanksgiving arrangement . . . twelve thorny, long-stemmed stems!" laughed Phil as the clerk handed him a tissue wrapped arrangement from the refrigerator.

"Those are for your wife?" asked Sandra incredulously. "Do you mind telling me why she wants a bouquet that looks like that?"

"Four years ago, my wife and I nearly divorced," Phil replied. "After forty years, we were in a real mess, but with the Lord's grace and guidance, we trudged through problem after problem, the Lord rescued our marriage. Jenny here (the clerk) told me she kept a vase of rose stems to remind her of what she had learned from "thorny" times. That was good enough for me. I took home some of those stems. My wife and I decided to label each one for a specific "problem" and give thanks for what that problem taught us."

As Phil paid the clerk, he said to Sandra, "I highly recommend the Special!"

"I don't know if I can be thankful for the thorns in my life" Sandra said to the clerk. "It's all too . . . fresh."

"Well," the clerk replied carefully, "my experience has shown me that the thorns make the roses more precious. We treasure God's providential care more during trouble than at any other time. Remember that it was a crown of thorns that Jesus wore so we might know His love. Don't resent
the thorns."

Tears rolled down Sandra's cheeks. For the first time since the accident, she loosened her grip on her resentment.

"I'll take those twelve long-stemmed thorns, please," she managed to choke out.

"I hoped you would," said the clerk gently. "I'll have them ready in a minute."

"Thank you. What do I owe you?"

"Nothing. Nothing but a promise to allow God to heal your heart. The first year's arrangement is always on me."

The clerk smiled and handed a card to Sandra. "I'll attach this card to your arrangement, but maybe you would like to read it first."

It read:

"My God, I have never thanked You for my thorns. I have thanked You a thousand times for my roses, but never once for my thorns. Teach me the glory of the cross I bear; teach me the value of my thorns. Show me that I have climbed closer to You along the path of pain. Show me that, through my tears, the colors of Your rainbow look much more brilliant."

Praise Him for the roses; thank Him for the thorns.

Worship Me!

2010-11-12T20:49:00.000-08:00

Okay... so today my Friend wrote on her facebook that she made her son say that she was the best Mom in the world and that he worshiped her. So my 3 year old Brookie asked me to open her cearel box and as usual I said:
Mom: "Tell Me You Love Me!"
Brookie "I Wov You Mommy, cearel PLEASE!"
Mom: "Tell Me You Worship Me!"
Brookie: "Me Worship You... (pause) POOPIE HEAD!"
Her and Ella laughed at that forever... Can't blame them... it was pretty darn funny!

One Sad Mommy

2010-11-08T17:53:00.000-08:00

Another reason I haven't blogged in a very long time... I am just sad. I want this to be a happy blog, a blog to reflect on this wonderful life I have but lately I am just plain sad. As most of you know I work nights, I work 40 or more hours a week and I feel like I miss so much. My kids hate that I work and I swear Bry wants to kill me some nights. I know most Moms that have to work outside the home feel this way but it's worse now than it is ever been. I am sure that it has to do with almost losing Bryan a couple months ago and that I spent a lot of time away from work. Ella is almost 8; I can't believe that, how fast time flies only adds to my panic.
A little over a year ago I lost my Sister in law to cancer. I have had her 2 youngest a couple of days over the last few weeks and I can't help but be sad. I wonder what they are going through; what they think, how they feel. We went to Wheeler Farm and did the Halloween thing and I had them on Halloween day and did 4 crazy girls, well 5 crazy girls (me) hair and makeup... it was out of control and fantastic but my mind kept going back to Shari and how amazing she was and this is not how it should be. I miss her and I miss her more and more during these wonderful times I get with her girls and with my girls. Last fall when Shari was battling cancer and I was trying to process that this was actually happening because it was so wrong... Not Shari she is so good, she loved everyone and everyone just fell in love with her at first sight... she gave the best hugs. Anyways, I would go for these long runs and play the same song over and over again and cry:

Pray God you can cope.
I stand outside this woman's work,
This woman's world.
Ooh, it's hard on the man,
Now his part is over.
Now starts the craft of the father.

I know you have a little life in you yet.
I know you have a lot of strength left.
I know you have a little life in you yet.
I know you have a lot of strength left.

I should be crying, but I just can't let it show.
I should be hoping, but I can't stop thinking

Of all the things I should've said,
That I never said.
All the things we should've done,
Though we never did.
All the things I should've given,
But I didn't.

Oh, darling, make it go,
Make it go away.
Give me these moments back.
Give them back to me.
Give me that little kiss.
Give me your hand.

I know I have just rambled here but I want to end on a happy note. I truly love my family so much it breaks my heart into tiny little pieces. Bryan for letting me be who I am and for not leaving me. Ella you are my light and my comfort, your peace is so wonderful. Brooklynn Rose you are my star, my comedian, my tornado. Kaden my new little monkey, you bring me new possibilities.
I know I have rambled and I am feeling so very sappy I promise next post will be happy and full of pictures!

A Long Time

2010-11-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

It has been a very long time since I posted anything on my blog and frankly it's been so long I don't know where to began...
So I'm going to write about a journey that began in the middle of August. Bryan was going to have surgery to repair and remove some scar tissue on his small intestines. A few days in the hospital is all... Well it turned into a month in the hospital. I have come way too close to losing him. It was that evil thought that you pushed into the very back of your mind... the what ifs... When Bry himself thought that he wasn't going to make it... it through me over the edge and into the place where you beg... you make deals... you promise...
That was 2 months ago. Bryan is getting better; he still struggles and he still has his bad days but we are still a family, we are back to the normal life that I prayed for... that I begged for.

Brookie ism

2010-04-19T18:06:00.001-07:00

MOMMY: Sorry Charlie!
BROOKIE: I not Charlie.... I Pretty!!

She thought I was calling her Charlie, Charlie is a dog, Kris and Libby's maltese. Brooklynn pouted on my bed for a good... 30 seconds.

Alice in Wonderland

2010-03-14T11:39:00.001-07:00

Have I gone mad?
I'm afraid so. You're entirely bonkers. But I'll tell you a secret. All the best people are.

Brooklynn's Favorite Game

2010-03-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

Brooklynn loves to hide under her blanket, she thinks no one can see her!

Valentine's Day!

2010-03-13T17:18:00.000-08:00

My Sister in Law Angie makes the best chocolate covered strawberries EVER!

Brookie Hangin Out

2009-10-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

Cuddle Bunny

2009-10-16T17:17:00.001-07:00

Gardner Village- Ride to a Witch!

2009-10-12T08:05:00.000-07:00

I loved this!! You take a tractor-pulled wagon ride to a witch’s home – a vintage train car where she performs her magic! She’ll invite you to step inside and take a peek at her humble abode. She'll delight you with stories, jokes and maybe even a spell or two, all in the comfort of her own home. All the kids loved it... except Megan... she was freaked out! She stuck with me and I had one arm around and I could feel her poor little heart beating out of her chest.

Gardner Village-Petting Zoo

2009-10-12T07:55:00.001-07:00

On Saturday we went to Gardner Village; This is my favorite place to go this time of year! We walked around and checked out the witches but Ella had ONE thing on her mind... THE PETTING ZOO! If you know my daughter at all, you know she loves animals! Here are some pictures of the petting zoo:

2009-09-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

SHARILYN BELL
Sharilyn Bell "My Sweetheart" Sharilyn Bell, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend returned home to her loving Heavenly Father on Sept. 17, 2009, after fighting a valiant battle with cancer. Shari was born on February 16, 1965, to Verl Lynn and Patricia Johnson in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was raised in Murray, Utah and graduated from Murray High School in 1983. She then attended Utah State University. She was a devoted wife and mother who loved being at home with her children. Her love for life radiated through her beautiful smile and warm, inviting personality. Because of her genuine love and compassion for others, there are many who call her friend. Shari loved to travel and enjoyed living in many parts of the country, including Florida, California, Virginia, Layton, UT and Ohio, as part of her husband's Air Force career. She will be greatly missed by her family and the many friends she made along the way. Shari was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many leadership capacities. Several times in different locations, she served with love and compassion as Relief Society President and teacher. She leaves a legacy of love, kindness and friendship that will be felt forever. She is survived by her husband (Brad) of 23 years; daughter, Brittney (Jon) Hooiman, Elko; sons Matthew and Andrew; daughters Abby and Megan; mother, Patricia Johnson Pinder; brothers, David Johnson, Hollywood, FL; Bryan Johnson (Shannon) Midvale; sister, Angie Vause (Doug) Farr West. She was preceded in death by her father, Lynn; brother, Jeffrey; grandparents, Dell and Fern Barentsen and grandparents, Vernal and Gwendolyn Johnson. Funeral services will be held at the Murray Utah Little Cottonwood 12th Ward on Tuesday, September 22, 2009 at 12:00 noon at 6180 S. Glenoaks Street (855 E.) Murray, UT. A viewing will be held at the same location on Monday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and prior to the services from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. A special thanks to the Millcreek Health and Hospice for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Huntsman Cancer Institute for melanoma research. www.huntsmancancerfoundation.org Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.holladaybrown.com

Shari, I miss you

2009-09-17T15:21:00.000-07:00

Hour to Live, An Hour to Love.

2009-09-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

I read this book a few weeks back and today I want to share a part of it with all my family and friends. I love you all and lucky to have each and every one of you. I have learned so much and gain so many happy times because of you all.

An Hour to Live:
Who would you call and why are you waiting?

To begin, I want you to know that if I could live this life again with you, I do so in a heartbeat. Thank you for being there for me so many times when I proved to be oh-so-human. Thank you for accepting me, flaws and all, for taking my hand in yours and for loving me during my highest highs and lowest lows.
It's almost time for me to say good-bye and I know in my heart it's not going to be for good. I know I'll see you again-somehow, some way, somewhere, in some form. I'd like to spend the moments we have left just being quiet with you, listening the rain... If I could live this life again, I'd spend a lot more time hugging people, epecially you and our girls. Thank you. Thank you for just being you. I love you

What are you waiting for?

Brooklynn

2009-08-14T19:15:00.000-07:00

Brooklynn's Almost 2!

2009-08-10T07:34:00.001-07:00

Thought of the Day!

2009-07-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

I LOVE THIS SONG AND I THOUGHT I WOULD POST THE LYRICS.

I'm Alive lyrics

So damn easy to say that life's so hard
Everybody's got their share of battle scars
As for me I'd like to thank my lucky stars that
I'm alive and well
It'd be easy to add up all the pain
And all the dreams you've sat and watch go up in flames
Dwell on the wreckage as it smolders in the rain
But not me... I'm alive
And today you know that's good enough for me
Breathing in and out's a blessing can't you see
Today's the first day of the rest of my life
And I'm alive and well
I'm alive and well
Stars are dancin' on the water here tonight
It's good for the soul when there's not a soul in sight
This motor's caught its wind and brought me back to life
Now I'm alive and well
And today you know that's good enough for me
Breathing in and out's a blessing can't you see
Today's the first day of the rest of my life
Now I'm alive and well
Yeah I'm alive and well

Ragnar Wasatch Back

2009-07-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

An Enchanted Saturday

2009-06-14T17:01:00.000-07:00

This weekend Ella had her first ballet recital, she was beautiful, they danced to music from Enchanted. I was the Mommy helper so I helped out backstage during the recital. Ella told me that she never wanted to stop doing ballet and that she had so much fun being on stage. I had even cutier pictures of Ella's dance that I had taken during her dress rehersal but my Nikon's battery is dead and for the life of me I can't find the charger.

Las Vegas

2009-06-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

Need I Say More....

May Birthdays

2009-05-17T21:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jordan, Christopher and Ashley!

Running with Angels

2009-05-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

What a Beautiful race! Running with Angels 5k helps families cope with the news that their unborn or newborn baby has a life-threatening or life-limiting condition. I cannot imagine the feeling of my heart breaking like it would if I lost one of my girls. I am so very lucky to have them!

Beautiful Brooklynn

2009-05-14T19:11:00.000-07:00

Race for a Cure

2009-05-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

Opps!!! I Forgot To Post Easter!

2009-05-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

It's a rare occasion that my sister posts something before me! Here is Easter!!!

Picture Day!

2009-04-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

I am so exhausted.... All you Mommy's certainly know how I feel; trying to get your kids to smile pretty at Kiddie Kandids. So without further todo here are the fruits of my labors:

Many Faces Of Brooklynn

2009-03-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

Brooklynn loves looking at herself in the mirror, makes faces and gives herself a ton of kisses... here's just a few of the many faces of Brooklynn:

Brooklynn

2009-03-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

Brookie's looking out the window at her sissy leaving her to go play with a friend.

Ella's Birthday Part Two

2009-03-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

Ella's Birthday Part One

2009-03-19T19:06:00.000-07:00

Disney On Ice

2009-03-19T18:55:00.000-07:00

A week ago, Angie my sister in law took Ella and I to Disney on Ice for Ella's birthday. I have to say that it was the best one we've been to. I really wanted to get a good picture of Ella but she was being shy most of the night, so that explains the picture of me making a face at her. Ella and I had popcorn, diet coke and a slushy for dinner... I was so sick!
I just want to thank Angie and Doug for a wonderful night and great company!

Happy Birthday My Darling Ella

2009-03-13T08:38:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying WOW! I cannot beleive that Ella is 6. I feel a little sad at the fact that time has flown by. It seems like yesterday that she was a newborn little thing that no matter how much I fed her she would not gain weight and that loved to sleep next to me... well that still has not changed.
Ella I love you so much, you are the greatest and strongest little girl!

Poop

2009-03-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

I know this is gross and I promise there will be zero pics to go along with this but I have to write about my Brooklynn. My darling sweet Brooklynn Rose feels the need for the last three nights to poop in the tub!!!! So gross, I hate cleaning the tub after she does her buisness. Brookynn and Ella no longer take tubbies together because a week and a half ago Brooklynn did her first poop in the tub and poor Ella moved faster than I have ever seen her move. You know what Bryan said when I told him.... well at least she didn't do it on the floor. Thanks a lot Bryan!

Swingin'

2009-03-05T19:05:00.001-08:00

Day At The Park

2009-03-05T18:58:00.001-08:00

Ella-ism

2009-02-20T08:23:00.001-08:00

I was driving my girls home from school yesterday and Ella and I had the following conversation:

Ella "Did you know that a stinker is a fart?"
Mommy "Yes I did."
Ella "So Mommy you know that is is not very nice for you to call me a stinker!"
Mommy "hmmm... I don't know what to say!"
Ella "Ok Mom... can we go get some french fries?"

Hey Daddy

2009-02-19T17:33:00.000-08:00

Dinosaurs!

2009-02-16T12:17:00.001-08:00

Today is President's day so no school, so we decided to go the dinosaur museum at Thanksgiving Point. Ella loved the hall of stars. Brooklynn ran around like a crazy two year old. After Granny took us to Sweet Tomatoes for lunch.

Thank you Ella for typing this for me!

Sister cuddles

2009-02-15T18:32:00.000-08:00

This is so nice to see!

Sunday Target Trip

2009-02-15T18:25:00.000-08:00

Ella is telling her Dad what we got at Target.

Ella and Brookie

2009-02-14T17:37:00.000-08:00

Part 2

Ella Dancing Part 1

2009-02-14T16:06:00.000-08:00

I couldn't decide between the two, both are in my opinion so cute. This one is just Ella.

Bryan Look At What Your Missing!

2009-02-14T10:18:00.000-08:00

Sick Brookie

2009-02-14T09:39:00.001-08:00

Double Trouble

2009-02-14T09:33:00.001-08:00

Let me start this by saying Brooklynn and her cousin Harper are one week apart in age, Brooklynn being the older one. So last Sunday Brooklynn pulled my Diet Coke out of the garbage and offered it to Harper and Harper very happly accepted it.

Hey Bryan!

2009-02-11T20:47:00.000-08:00

Kerri's Shower Part 2

2009-02-11T20:44:00.000-08:00

Kerri's Shower Part 1

2009-01-31T14:08:00.000-08:00

Today was Kerri's first baby shower and I was so excited. Kerri has been my best friend for like 12 years and I am so glad I have been able to share this time with her. Her Mom spent hours making these miniture bunt cakes that were sooo yummy! I guess her whole family thinks alike because she got four of the same outfit. Next week is another shower for Kerri, this time at my house.
I can't wait to hold Charlotte Larue and of course I will be her favorite Aunt Shannon.

Walking With The Dinosaurs

2009-01-18T19:44:00.000-08:00

Bryan and Ella

2009-01-17T19:41:00.000-08:00

I had to post these pictures, they totally speak for themselves. These make me laugh to myself everytime. Ella loves to push her Daddy's buttons, I guess it's another Mother like Daughter moment!

A Lady and the Tramp Moment

2009-01-17T19:34:00.000-08:00

Brooklynn thinks she wants a sour gummy worm.

Oh Just Give It To Me Mom!!!

Grandma Pat Gets Married!

2009-01-10T13:25:00.000-08:00

Bryan's Mom took the big plunge and married Glenn, right now they are in Maui enjoying their honeymoon.
Pat and Glenn married on Jan 2 in the Salt Lake Temple following that they had a reception at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. I have to say that Glenn's kids and grandkids are talented. They performed the best rendition of Moon River I have ever heard.

A Little Late Part 2

2009-01-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning:
Christmas morning, my Mom, Bry's Mom, Brittney and Jason came over to watch my girl's open their presents. Ella got that big horse, barbies and an easy bake oven(I know I was reliving my childhood when buying it for her). Brooklynn got an Elmo Live, a baby doll and a puppy that you drag around.
I was terrible about taking pictures this year, I didn't take a single one of Christmas Dinner. My Mom made the best prime rib YUMMY!

A Little Late

2009-01-10T13:03:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve:
Christmas Eve is always spent with Bryan's family. It as traditional and sweet as it gets. I mean when Bryan and I started dating and his parents got home from their mission, I was in awe... I didn't think Christmas really happened like that. Christmas carols by the piano and the children acting out the Christmas story. I am still in awe of Christmas Eve, Johnson Style.
I have to throw out a huge thank you to Michelle for all that she did to make the big family party wonderful.

Baby Laughs

2008-12-22T19:43:00.000-08:00

So... last night Bryan took this cute video of Brooklynn laughing and I so badly wanted to post it, I spent over a hour and half trying to upload this video that is only 1 minute 12 seconds. It wouldn't do it so tonight I will try again because I just love her laugh and want all of you to hear it. Yeah It FINALLY loaded!!!

I'm a Secret Reporter

2008-12-20T19:29:00.000-08:00

Ella had my camera and told me that she was a secret reporter and these were two of many, many, many pictures she took.

Nose Bitter!!!

2008-12-20T19:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas program

2008-12-20T19:07:00.000-08:00

This is Brookie's first Christmas Program! Her poor teachers, what they have to go through!

Santa Claus

2008-12-20T19:01:00.000-08:00

At their school program they had a chance to see Santa (Which happens to be Grandma Pat's good friend) Anyways Brooklynn was not too fond of sitting on his lap! Santa asked Ella what she wanted for Christmas and she said "Oh Santa just surprise me!" Got to love my Girl.

Sleepy Head

2008-12-06T19:38:00.001-08:00

This is what I came home to on Thursday. Bryan wore her out, they went to the mall and built a dog at Build a Bear while I had to sit all day through an all employees conference. Brook has this thing were she loves to lay on our bare tummies, she pulls up our shirts as soon as we sit down with her.

Like Mother Like Daughter Part 2

2008-12-06T19:33:00.001-08:00

I am so tickled to have a daughter that loves sushi! How many 5 year olds do you know that love sushi. She is awesome!

Like Mother Like Daughter

2008-11-30T18:53:00.000-08:00

What Can I say... I raise daughters who love Diet Coke as much as I do!

Brooklynn's Favorite Toy

2008-11-29T19:48:00.000-08:00

Brooklynn has every toy between herself and Ella but she still insists on playing with my purse. My purse is a permanent mess, there is no point in organizing it because she will just come back and pull it off the counter and dump it back out. I have include pictures that demonstrate her technique.

Enjoying The Last Days Of Fall

2008-11-24T16:20:00.001-08:00

Memory Lane

2008-11-24T16:07:00.000-08:00

So I'm having a little pity party over going back to work full time; it has been such an awesome experience to be able to be home with the girls. I have felt balance and peace but in these times I must go back full time. I am trying to be positive about it. I am very very blessed to have been able to stay at home over the last 15 months but all good things must come to a end.
ANYWAYS..... back to memory lane; in the process of having a pity party I was looking at baby pics of Ella and thought I would post a few.

I'm Thankful for You!

2008-11-24T14:53:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is the appointed time
for focusing on the good in our lives.
In each of our days,
we can find small blessings,
but too often we overlook them,
choosing instead to spend our time
paying attention to problems.
We give our energy
to those who cause us trouble
instead of those who bring peace.
Starting now,
let’s be on the lookout
for the bits of pleasure in each hour,
and appreciate the people who
bring love and light to everyone
who is blessed to know them.
You are one of those people.
On Thanksgiving,
I’m thankful for you.
Happy Thanksgiving!

Halloween Part II

2008-10-30T14:05:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Halloween

2008-10-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

This year Ella has two chances to wear her costumes... Here is her first day. I even dressed Brookie up for Ella's kindergarten party.

The Spirit Award!

2008-10-30T13:05:00.001-07:00

My beautiful kindergartner received the spirit award for her class. I am so proud of her, she was so brave; Ella got up in front of her whole school and got her certificate.

Moab

2008-10-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

So this was our view from our patio at the Red Cliffs Lodge. Can believe how gorgeous this view is? Wish we could of stayed longer.
Got to give Bryan kudos for how much crap he took from our friends because he wasn't a runner. They think that they can convince him to run the Other Half next year... HAHAHA I've been trying for like the last 4 years. I have totally given up. If free beer at the finish line didn't convince him nothing will.
I would put some race pics on here but the camera was dead. I did finish yes. I finished in 2:32. Not great but not bad. I really enjoyed this one. The hills were killer. I had to wait for 10 minutes for porto potty at mile four because I talked to long before the race. Great run, will definitely do again!

The Other Half is Almost Here

2008-10-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

Ok... Seriously... I am so under trained for next weekends race. People... believe me when I say I am so unprepared!! Let me tell you I am such a prideful person when it comes to some things; I am crazy. So... I was totally fine knowing that Bryan and I were going to Moab and no one would have to know how slow I was going to finish this race but now our dear friends Chris and Lisa are going down with us and a couple from Bry's unit will be racing (they have some pretty good times) I know, I know I can't get any sillier, but heck this pride thing is killing me.

"Are you going to be a wimp, or are you going to be strong today?"

First Day!

2008-09-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

See me skip, See me run,I'm going to school like everyone. See me smile, See me grin,When the bell rings, I walk in.
See me work,See me play,I'm in Kindergarten-My first Day!

Brittney's Wedding

2008-09-07T13:43:00.001-07:00

Ella's Preschool Graduation

2008-09-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

Brooklynn's One!

2008-09-07T13:34:00.001-07:00

Can't Believe This Was Almost A Year Ago

2008-08-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

Covered in cake and icing,

your smile stretched ear to ear.

A single candle celebrates,the joy of your first year.

We sing Happy Birthday,you play midst wrap and bows.

We marvel at how you touched our lives,just one year ago.

I remember the first time I held you,kissed your head, whispered your name.

you've changed our lives forever,Our hearts will never be the same.

As a child you'll love this day,for all the sweets and presents too.

As parents we'll love your day,for the gift we got was you.

Each year we'll add another candle,so proud to see you grow.

But always with the memory,of your first day long ago.