Families are Forever

Carpenter Christmas Party

2010-04-25T11:08:00.010-07:00

Our Carpenter Christmas Party was so FUN this year! Uncle Chuck and Aunt Sharla did a TERRIFIC job of entertaining everyone! We held the party at a park on the 3rd Saturday in December...everyone brought soup and a dessert to share! Aunt Sharla provided the entertainment.

Three legged racing!

Courtney being brave and trying out the tube!

Rolling down the hill in a tube! The tube was GREAT! Everyone that tried it(not me!) had a FUN time...when the "big" boys got in the tube rolled for a long ways! Meghan was our tropper..she would run down the hill(never got in the tube) and make sure everyone was OK..then she would run back up the hill to report! It was Cute!

Sacks races were great! Some didn't quite fit in the sacks...but it didn't stop us from racing!

What a FUN and MEMORABLE party we had...can't wait til next year!

School Assembly Christmas Program

2010-04-25T11:08:00.007-07:00

The school has quarterly PERFECT ATTENDANCE assemblies...this one happen to fall right at Christmas Time. Courtney's class learned a song from Alvin and the Chimpmunks, with actions! I love this picture of Courtney...she looks like she is ''getting" into it!

Courtney receiving her Award for PERFECT attendance from Principal Monty Williams!
Way to GO Courtney!

Pictures with Santa

2010-04-25T11:07:00.009-07:00

CHRISTMAS wouldn't be complete with some pictures with Santa!

Courtney trying to hold Cashlyn for a quick pic!

The Owens Boys!

Ward Christmas Party

2010-04-25T11:07:00.007-07:00

This year for the Ward Christmas Party, we imitated the Polar Express... It was lots of fun for the kids to come in their PJ's and ride the train. We sang Christmas songs and along the way we picked up some special guests..."Joseph and Mary". It was fun to see all the kids excitement as they stepped on the "train".

Here is Cashlyn, Seneca and Slade!

Doesn't Courtney and Lauren look SOOOO happy?

After the train ride, all the children(even the big ones) got to visit Santa and sit on his lap!
Cashlyn was scared and didn't even want her picture taken.

Temple Lights

2010-04-25T11:05:00.012-07:00

We went to see the Temple lights the Friday after Thanksgiving!

The Temple lights were lots of FUN...except there were LOTS of people! We got to the Temple early and listened to the little talk that was given about how they turn on the lights. It was really interesting, I have never heard all that before. One of the highlights of the evening was we got to see Elder Harris.(an elder who was in Heber for a time, then got transferred back to the valley) I think the kids enjoyed the lights, but with so many people it is really hard to take it all in! We would have loved to go in the visitor center and see the different Nativities, but it was over crowded. Maybe next year!

THANKSGIVING

2010-01-02T19:51:00.009-07:00

This year we spent Thanksgiving in the Valley with my Mom's side of the family. I am so grateful we have lots of Uncles, Aunts and cousins who still like to get together and make memories. We get to have Thanksgiving dinner outside where the weather is nice, and the kids can run on the farm. Volleyball is always played, and no Thanksgiving dinner would be complete without Grandma's raspberry jello. I didn't do very well in the picture department this year, but here are some of the family.

I have many things to be Thankful for...here are just a few:

T---Temples, I am SO grateful for the ordinances in the Temple
H---Hal, I am grateful for a my husband who is hardworking, handsome, and helpful!(how's that for H)
A---Ancestors, I am glad I did not have to be a pioneer, but I am grateful for my family who came to America, and then came to SLC because of the truth. I am proud of my heritage!
N---Nature, I am glad for the opportunity to live where all around is beauty. When I am in Nature, I always feel so free and peaceful
K---Kids, I love my kids and I am so happy that I get the opportunity to have 4 beautiful girls.
S---Sacrifice, How indebted I am for the sacrifice of many on my behalf. I am truly most grateful for the sacrifice of my Savior, Jesus Christ.
G---Gospel, I am eternally grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I---Inspiration, I know lives are touched through inspiration. I am grateful for leaders and those who inspire my life
V---Voices, I am grateful to those who use their voices to lift and touch the hearts of others. I love to hear music, and I know how powerful a single voice can be.
I---Imagination, I can dream and think up anything my little heart desires. I love it when my kids imagine...play pretend...and are so light hearted...imagine if...
N---Nativity...I am so thankful for the birth of my Savior. I am glad I can think of the nativity and its meaning for my life. The Birth of Jesus Christ is the GREATEST blessing anyone could ask for.
G---Giving, I can't explain the joy i feel when I serve. Giving of myself is truly a blessing.

Before Hal left...

2010-01-02T19:41:00.002-07:00

Everyone thought I was silly, but before Hal left to Kiabab to hunt for 2 weeks, I had the girls and Dad take a picture. The girls can never say they didn't get a picture with dad.

Halloween

2009-12-11T07:06:00.005-07:00

I LOVE Halloween...It is fun to decorate for it, I love getting the girls costumes...I just love it! So this year is no suprise...the girls look GREAT in their attire!

Chelsea got to dress up 2 times for Halloween. Once for the tri-ward Halloween dance for mutual. And then again on Halloween. For the dance she chose to be a WILD CAVE WOMAN...at the dance they always give away prizes...Chelsea has won that prize for the last 3 years, and this year was no exception! GO CHELSEA! Then on Halloween she was a Baseball player.

Courtney decided a long time before Halloween that she wanted to be a CAVE WOMAN! She wasn't too sure about how things would look. While we were at Walmart, I thought about using dog bones for accessories. So we put them in our cart, and while we were cutting material the lady asked if we were getting things for Halloween. And the girls said yes, we were. She aked each of them what they were going to be, and Courtney said a CAVE WOMAN, and we are using these dog bones...LOL The lady then told the girls they were lucky they had a creative mom.(well I try to be, and it was a nice compliment)

Cashlyn was a CUTE unicorn! She wasn't too shy this year about going around and getting candy. I love that our ward holds a trunk or treat in the church parking lot! Makes it easy and fun for MOM's and all the kids!

Spirit Week

2009-11-10T10:43:00.005-07:00

For Homecoming Week all the schools got together and had Spirit Days to show their TRUE MUSTANG colors. Each day the girls dress up as something different! It was lots of fun, and I love it that my GIRLS get all into it!

Here are pictures of them on different days, which were: CrAzY hAiR day, Career Day, Cowboy day, Pajama day, Sports day, Twin day, and the last day was MUSTANG colors day! It was fun to help my sister Tiffani with her kids as well. They had fun dressing up;even Devon(big shcoker, was a hawaiian girl, and dressed as a HiPpiE) participated in the action. The boys' favorite day was cowboy day. Grandma Baum showed her spirit(even to the TRUE BLUE) by wearing a BYU jersey on Sports day. Chelsea also got to participate in an activity every night at the high school (which is a little much), but I guess the kids have FUN!

HUNTING SEASON!

2009-11-10T10:35:00.002-07:00

WE INTERRUPT THIS MARRIAGE FOR HUNTING SEASON!

Hal loves to hunt! I am glad he has a hobby that he is so passionate about! I just would have never dreamed when I married him, how much hunting really goes on! (so thus the statement up above) The best thing that I can say about HUNTING is that my girls have learned to shoot a gun, and the safety when using one. They put in for Elk and Deer, and it is a great time to spend with their dad! I have come to love the outdoors more, and appreciate the "sport" that it is. I love to be out in the woods with Hal and the girls and see the wildlife. So here's to another hunting season....the next one start soons!

CaShLyN's BiRtHdAy

2009-11-10T09:54:00.007-07:00

Cashlyn celebrated her 2nd Birthday on September 20th.
She loves chocolate, and helped make her own birthday cake.
I think she loved the beaters more than the cake.

Cashlyn with her cake!

Cashlyn did a good job blowing out her candles. She would blow so fast, we had to light the candle several times just to get a picture. Cashlyn thought it was funny, and the other girls tried to tell her not to blow, but she didn't listen.

Cahslyn with her sisters, and gifts. Courtney(who always gets her own toys to share with others) gave her a play microphone, and some dolls. Cashlyn also got lots of cute clothes from grandparents. We love the new wardrobe!
We love Cashlyn, she is such a cutie!

Volleyball

2009-10-26T23:07:00.002-07:00

Chelsea played on the Freshman volleyball team this year. Chelsea did a great job, and you could tell by the end of the season she had improved a lot.

Chelsea was a "passer". She got some great passes, and learned to serve open handed. Chelsea could serve pretty good, she just had to make sure she didn't step on the line.

Chelsea was always happy and encouraging on the court. She is an outstanding player and a great asset to her team.

GO CHELSEA!

Saying Goodbye

2009-10-26T22:54:00.003-07:00

We enjoy having the missionaries over...although we don't have them over as often as we should. Elder Harris was a missionary from Hawaii that we all grew to love. Elder Harris and his companion would give lots of service, getting wood and helping people move, whatever they needed to do. Elder Harris was lots of fun, and we enjoyed him in our home. We had 2 "farewell" parties for him. One after conference with the Whitmer's from Young, and the other was the day before he was transfered. We had Brandon, Chelsea, Bethanie, Chalyce over and Hal cooked lunch for everyone. It was great! We miss Elder Harris, but we know he is doing great in Mesa.

BaCk tO ScHoOL

2009-10-26T22:17:00.004-07:00

Chelsea's 1st day as a FRESHMAN! Yes, it's true her Momma is getting old. I can't believe that Chelsea is old enough to go to High School! She was excited to be there, and Chelsea LOVES high school better than JR. High (imagine that)!

Courtney's 1st day of 3rd GRADE! She is growing up so fast, and is becoming a sweet, cute little lady. Courtney was excited to go to school and have Ms. Duncan as her teacher.

I always dread when school starts. I do NOT look forward to early mornings with lots hustle and bustle. But I love for the girls to go to school, have friends, participate in activities, and get an education. I love to watch them develop and grow, and I love to attend whatever they are doing! HOPE THIS YEAR IS A GOOD ONE!

Perfect Words

2009-08-03T21:38:00.002-07:00

I have been thinking a lot of the events of 2008. There were so many things that happened that year. There was Good and Bad, Joy and Sorrow, Anger and Hurt, Healing and Peace, Tears and more Tears, and LOTS OF LOVE! I guess the list could go on and on. But there is a day that year that will always hold many of those feelings for me, a day that I will never forget, a day that will always be remembered as the day I lost my brown-eyed girl. So today, I am touched by this song...

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Born to be an ANGEL!

2009-07-08T19:51:00.003-07:00

Today is Carissa's 4th Birthday!

We love her and miss her so much. Carissa was born earlier in the morning on July 8th, after having an emergency C-section. She was such a chunky baby for us, and had beautiful, big brown eyes. Carissa was a good baby, and never cried. She was given the nick name of "baby doll" right from the start. We should have figured that after waiting 5 extra days, and a difficult birth that Carissa wouldn't be ours for very long. I think she wanted a little more time in Heaven.

Carissa was a very smart little girl. She learned lots about our family, like our favorite colors(she always said Hal's was camouflage), and that 3 of us had brown eyes, and 3 had blue eyes. Carissa also learned the 1st & 2nd Articles of Faith.

Carissa will be remembered for her big pretty eyes, cute little smile, and for bringing lots of sunshine to our lives. She is our little princess, and a beautiful ANGEL!

Carissa will live on forever in our lives, and hearts. We love you!
July 8th, 2005-May 26th 2008

Chelsea's 8th grade Promotion

2009-05-30T23:47:00.006-07:00

Chelsea promoted from 8th grade. Now she is a FRESHMAN! Way to go Chelsea. We are so proud of her, Chelsea is a beautiful young lady. She is a great helper around the house, loves to do things her sisters and family, and is a happy, smiling girl. Watch out high school...here she comes!

Memorial Weekend 2009

2009-05-30T23:13:00.001-07:00

There is lots that I want to say about Memorial Weekend 2009, but for now I will just say that I will never forget the feelings I had in 2008 as my life changed forever. But not only did my life change but the lives of friends, family, my girls, and probably most of all, my husbands. I am glad my family was here in Heber for Memorial weekend, and I can't express enough how much I am grateful for them and all that they do for me.

Words can never explain the heartache I have felt, as we have lived for 1 year without a sweet little girl. Carissa touched our lives, and we will always remember her. She is an Angel, and I miss her. I love her, and can't wait for the day when I will see her again.

Life is NOT fair...Fair is where you go to see the pigs and ride the ferris wheel. Time does heal, and each day the pain lessens some. But through it all...there is a shinning ray...I know that I will see Carissa again! My Savior lives, and LOVES me. My family is eternal, and will can be together forever!

Happy Birthday to ME!

2009-05-30T23:11:00.000-07:00

This year my birthday, and mothers day came with a little more emotion attached than in years past. I was remembering last year at this time, how my family was all on vacation and that we were all together. This year I am thinking of a little girl who doesn't get to share in our special days anymore. But I can say that this birthday was GREAT! Thanks to my husband and my girls who let me have a day to myself. Thanks to my sister, Tiffani and Nikki and my cousin Leah(who drove all the way from the valley) to suprise me with a day of "whatever I wanted to do". WOW! So we headed to Showlow and got a great pedicure, then went to trappers for dinner. After that we went back to my sister RaChelle's house to have ice cream cake with all the family. It was a great day, and I am so greatful for family to spend time with me, and to help me through all my trials. THANK YOU!

Planting a Garden

2009-05-30T23:03:00.000-07:00

The prophet said to plant a garden. I don't know if he said make sure your family helps! It is more work to get your kids to plant, water, NOT step on the plants/seeds, than sometimes it is worth it! I am so glad that Hal doesn't mind getting things ready, and working hard for us to have a garden. A garden is A LOT of WORK, but I do love to eat the fresh vegetables that the garden brings. Hal heard about new method for planting and keeping weeds out, so we will see if it works. I think this year we over planted, and I hope that I can harvest the fruits of our labors. The girls did love being out there, and getting in the water.(but not filling the walls of water). Cashlyn got the dirtiest, and she was so cute to always "help". We haven't been out there to weed it yet, and the rain has sure helped with the watering. I sure hope we get a good garden this year. I think the most important thing is to teach our children how to plant and harvest a garden. And, to learn how to ourselves so when the time comes that we only have to rely on what we can produce we will know how. PLANTING A GARDEN IS FUN TO DO, FUN TO DO! (we will see)

Girls Just Wanna Have FUN!

2009-05-30T22:43:00.013-07:00

Chelsea and Courtney (and the rest of us) just love it when cousins come to town. It just happend that this weekend it was the Garner Girls! We love to have the Garner Girls stay at our house. They put on some music and they were all dancing around my living room have a great time. The girls all look so pretty dressed up, getting ready to go to a baptism in Young. Cambree, Hailee, Alyssa & Courtney paused for a picture, but only if they could do bunny ears to Chelsea. lol

I know this is a blurry picture...bummer! This is taken in the Young Church house after Hannah's baptism. Hannah is the daughter of Jared and Amy Whitmer. Hal and I became friends with them several years ago, after Eric Garner introduced us. We have enjoyed getting to their family...to bad Young is SOOOOOO far away! In the picture is Cambree and Chelsea back row. Then L to R: Emily, Alyssa, Hannah, Hailee, and Courtney. What a CUTE bunch of girls.

3 little Monkeys!

2009-05-30T22:32:00.001-07:00

3 little monkeys sitting in a tree! Chelsea and Courtney were out in the woods one day with Hal and they found this great tree. They dubbed it the monkey tree. Next time we were driving in the woods, the girls said "lets go to the monkey tree.". I was like, what is the monkey tree, and they said they would show me. The girls all had to climb in the tree, and of course get their picture taken. I do have to say...It is a COOL tree!

Pinewood Derby for Men!

2009-05-30T22:27:00.002-07:00

I guess if the men belly ache enough, they get what they want. They wanted a pinewood derby....relieve their youth!(not me) Heber 2nd & 3rd wards got together and some of the men
raced their cars down the track. Hal had a great time. He wished he could have worked on his car more, but due to his work schedule it didn't work out. Hal's car didn't perform that well, but he was a good sport about it, and had a good time anyway.

Easter

2009-05-30T22:20:00.000-07:00

Easter was blah around our house this year. We
didn't dye eggs, we didn't hide eggs at Grandma's
house, but we did go to the park for the Lion's Club
Annual Egg hunt.

Cashlyn didn't know what to do at first so Hal helped
her put the first egg in her bag. She got the hang
of it, and tried to pick up as many as she could

My 3 pretty girls on our way to Church!

Courtney also had a great time at the park. She loves to
get the "tattoos" and had one stuck on her forhead before
I could get a picture.

We had so many eggs this year, we had lots of
deviled eggs. The Easter Bunny did find us, and
the girls were super excited. Chelsea wasn't around
for the day. She went with the youth to the
Easter Pagent in Mesa. They left Friday afternoon
and came home Sat. around noon.

Easter is a great holiday. I love to remember the true
meaning of Easter, the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
I love this time of year when we can celebrate new life,
HOPE, and know that because of our Savior we WILL live
again someday, and we WILL see those we love again!

TRACK

2009-04-27T12:27:00.001-07:00

Chelsea loves to participate in Sports. Right now it is track season. Chelsea throws the shot put, usually gets 2nd. That is so good, considering she has never thrown before. Way to go, Chelsea! She also runs the 100 meter, & 800 meter and places in the top 4. That is great too...fast little runner. Then she does the 4x100 relay. The group was doing pretty good in this, but then their 1st runner got hurt, so things aren't looking so good for them.

Chelsea loves to go on the track meet with her friends. Above is Smily getting ready to run the 200 meter, he does awsome at whatever sport he is participating in. Also in the picture is Chelsea and her good friend Bethanie. Bethanie also is a great athlete.

GOOD JOB Chelsea. We are proud of all of your accomplishments!

Leaving a Legacy...Thelma Carpenter (my great grandma)

2009-04-06T15:16:00.012-07:00

My Great Grandma, Thelma Carpenter passed away on March 24th, 2009. She live a healthy, full, memorable life for 100 years! Great Grandma outlived all but 1 of her children, and 1 brother. I remember when her son, Jerald (my grandpa) died, she said: "You aren't suppose to outlive your children". Can you imagine the reunion that greeted her just beyond the veil. Her husband, Jim who died in 1990, 3 children, her parents & grandparents, and many others who had gone before! What a sweet experience to have been there when she greeted those she loved!

Great Grandma grew up without the frivolities we enjoy now. She had NO electricity, running water, straw in her matresses for a bed, NO hot water, or a vacuum cleaner, and the list could go on. She learned to sew, and made her first dress at age 12. She also made lots of quilts.

Great Grandma applied Pres. Kimballs qoute of "Use it up, Wear it out, Make it do, or Do with out" long before that saying was given. She would use water in a bucket to wash her hair, mop the floor, then water the grape vines. She didn't like paper towels because you couldn't reuse them.

Great Grandma LOVED to go to the temple. In her 80's she bought a condo across the street from the Mesa, Az Temple. She would walk there everyday and attend 4 or so sessions. They estimated she did 5000-7000 endowments during that time.

When she was 95 years old she sewed 100 baby outfits for the humanitarian project in her stake. After she was finished she said,"Now what shall I do?"

I always remember when she was in Mesa visiting and she came to my Grandma Carpenters house to see everyone. She had curlers in her hair, and all the kids(my girls, nieces & nephews) wanted to take a picture with her. She chuckled a little, and said she had curlers in her hair. We all laughed a little and then she said "I am going to be SOOO beautiful, YOU JUST WAIT AND SEE"! She was 100 years old then! How sweet! Our kids go around saying that phrase ALL the time.

At the funeral all the great grandchildren got to sing "There is Sunshine in my Soul Today" as a tribute to her. A cousin told of how a few days before she died, they were visiting grandma and asked if they could sing some hymns with her. Grandma said she didn't feel like singing, but would love to listen. After they started singing, Grandma titled her head back and sung all 3 verses of the song. I will always think of her funeral, and my great grandma when I hear this song. It so reminds me of Great Grandma and the life she lived...she always found the Sunshine in life!

As said at her funeral, We honor her today for her legacy of faith and love and for her endurance to the end. Her faith is evident when she wrote, "I do believe the Lord will bless me if I am the kind of person I can be (the person I should be)."

I love the heritage that I have. I am grateful for the blessings I have been given. Many wonderful things have happened in my life, and I am truly blessed to have known this Great Grandma, Thelma Carpenter and many other relatives who have already gone beyond the veil!

March 25 & 26...Spring Break Week

2009-04-06T13:01:00.003-07:00

Yesterday morning we got the phone call that my Great-Grandma Carpenter had passed away! How could you be sad?-She was 100 years old! So today Wednesday we are thinking about what we need to do for the funeral, and what to do with the kids. It seems like Spring Break had either super slow days, or days that were so busy you didn't have time to sit around. Thursday was pretty much the same, running around for things we needed. Shopping and Eating out! Lots of fun to go to the mall, and watch the kids at the play area! Thursday night I took the girls to Scottsdale, where Gma Wendy had a condo. She and Aunt Valerie are going to watch my kids while we go to the funeral. That worked out great for me...and the girls got to swim a little too!

March 24th, Happy Birthday Chelsea

2009-04-06T12:31:00.004-07:00

Chelsea always gets to celebrate her birthday
during Spring Break...she feels a little cheated.
I never got to take cupcakes or treats to her
class, and she ALWAYS spends the day with
her family! We LOVE Chelsea and think she
is growing up to be a beautiful young lady!
Here are 14 things we love about Chelsea...

#1 Always smiling
#2 Loves people...is a people person
#3 Wants to do what is RIGHT!
#4 Cute baby, and Beautiful young lady
#5 Loves Sports, Hunting, Snowboarding
and anything to keep busy!

#6 Is a GREAT big sister
#7 LOVES to pose for pictures,(I love, love that)
#8 Always tries to look her best
#9 Thinks of others
#10 Has beautiful thick hair(even though some times she doesn't like---we are jealous)

#11 Loves to participate in ALL the activities(like crazy hair
day, spirit week, silly YW activities)
#12 Is a big tease(sometimes this gets her in trouble)
#13 Great example to her sisters
#14 Is a Child of God, and is a Special young lady!

Hope you had a great Birthday, Chelsea! We love you and
are so glad you are part of our family!

March 23rd Monday, A Day at the ZOO!

2009-03-31T21:23:00.004-07:00

Monday was a GREAT day to go to the ZOO. It wasn't very
crowded and wasn't HOT! You can't beat that! Our family
hasn't been to the ZOO in several years, so we were excited
for the adventure! The ZOO was lots of walking, animals that
didn't want to be seen, whining kids(I'm hot, I'm hungry, lets
go here, we didn't see this, how come that...but over all they
were pretty good and had a good time)!

Cashlyn LOVED the petting ZOO! This was fun for the kids,
my girls loved to get close to the animals, they especially loved
it when the goats would start to poop or pee!

Courtney and Amberly were ALWAYS posing for
a picture. When I went to the bathroom, they stole
my camera and started snapping...I have lots of
pictures of them, and feet and heads or no heads...and
did I say LOTS of them! They are cute girls, and
at such a fun age!

Chelsea LOVES to pose for pictures! She was pretty
bored at the ZOO, but tried to make the best of it!

Grandpa and Grandma Baum with the grandkids who went
to the ZOO! A lady near by said, Is that your family...YES...
they are SOOOOO beautiful...tell them they are so lucky, you
don't see families like that anymore...We tried to tell her this
was only half of us, but she didn't listen.

We LOVE our FAMILY, and are so glad we could spend
SPRING BREAK WITH THEM!

March 23rd, LIfe at the ZOO #2

2009-03-31T21:09:00.007-07:00

At the Zoo, there was squirrels everywhere. They loved to get food. Ross and the kids tried to hold as still as possible so the squirrel would come and eat out of their hands. It got pretty close and some of the kids didn't like that too well.

Chelsea and Courtney wanted to rock climb. At the zoo they have a climb the palm tree. The girls loved it. They climbed up to the top, then dropped down. The people let my girls go up 3 times. Chelsea and Courtney have always wanted to rock climb, so this was a great time!

LOST & FOUND!
While we were all watching the kids rock climb, and just about done we started to gather the kids to move, and OH NO...NO Braxton. Char and I stayed with the kids, and my Dad and Nikki went one way...my Mom went another way...Ross went one way...Tiffani another...and Hal went back to the place we had last been. None of us realized that Braxton had been missing for about 20 minutes. They searched for about 10 minutes,
then Ross saw him with a worker. Braxton had wondered off, ended up in a gift shop. We were just glad they found him. Well...not even 15 minutes later...we all started up this little trail off the main road, and Charlayne was at the back...Meghan was no where to be found. Char kept asking everyone, are you sure you don't have Meghan, I saw her go with Chelsea...I said NO. My dad came back and said do you have Meghan...NO! So the adults again went backtracking...and NO Meghan. The rest of us kept walking along the trail, and we decided to send Bryce and Chelsea up ahead to see if she was there. Just as they were coming back (with Meghan) Char calls and ask if we are sure one more time if we had her...NO,(Char was just asking them to call someone to help look) but then the kids said we have her...and boy were we releaved!
I DON'T THINK WE ARE GOING BACK TO THE ZOO FOR A WHILE! (at least until we have a buddy system)

Nikki's Birthday...March 22nd

2009-03-31T20:24:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday Nikki! Officially 20,
She is no longer a teenager!

Here are some of the things we love about
NIKKI!

Beautiful Smile
Contagious Laugh
Great Hairstylist!
(we love that she makes us all look instyle)
The best babysitter
(especially spur of the moment)
Always looks so CUTE!

We love you Nikki...you are lots of fun to be around, and
we appreciate all you do for our family!

March 22nd, Sunday Missionary Report

2009-03-31T20:17:00.004-07:00

It was great to hear my cousin Tyler report about his mission in Africa! This was a highlight of the week! He related his missionary service to prayer, and how we always need to have a prayer in our hearts. I love to hear missionary reports and about their service! I love that these missionaries who come home have such a love of life, love for the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Service, Faith, and they are such a JOY to be around! Thank YOU missionaries for being great examples and bringing that extra spark to those around you!

March 21st, Saturday Service Project

2009-03-31T19:49:00.005-07:00

To kick off SPRING BREAK we had a service project for my Grandma Carpenter in Gilbert. All my Mom's family was invited to come help clean up her yard. This was a fun family project. The men worked hard trimming branches, cutting down the palm tree and grape vines in swimming pool area. The woman pitched in with clean up here and there, but mostly worked hard at watching children, and visiting. We had LOTS of FUN!

Even the dog got a trim, well not just a trim but
a shaving to the skin!

All the kids pitched in, it was great to see them work! They
hauled branches, picked up trash, and loved to watch the men
cut down the palm tree!

How many men does it take to make a decision? We(all the
woman) would sit, joke and laugh...the men seemed to either
have a lengthy discussion on what to next or how to do, OR
2 men would work and the rest would supervise!

Everyone brought a picnic lunch! IT was GREAT fun to sit
and visit and enjoy each others company!

On a side note: Courtney got to jump in the pool, and pull
out a large palm leaf they had dropped in the deep end.
This prompted several other children to get on their
swimsuits and jump in. The only problem was...the pool
was still a little on the cold side, so they didn't stay in very long!

We all had lots of FUN and it was a GREAT way to kick off
SPRING BREAK!

Thinking of YOU!

2009-03-19T12:50:00.001-07:00

We do not need a special day
To bring you to our minds.
The days we do not think of you
Are very hard to find.

Each morning when we awake,
We know that you are gone.
And no one knows the heartache
As we try to carry on.

Our hearts still ache with sadness
And secret tears still flow.
What it meant to lose you
No one will ever know.

Our thoughts are always with you,
Your place no one can fill.
In life we loved you dearly;
In death we love you still,

There will always be a heartache,
And often a silent tear.
But always a precious memory
Of the days when you were here.

If tears could make a staircase,
And heartaches make a lane,
We'd walk the path to heaven
And bring you home again.

We hold you close within our hearts;
And there you will remain,
To walk with us throughout our lives
Until we meet again.

Our family chain is broken now,
And nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.

~ Author unknown~

Luck 'O the Irish

2009-03-17T17:58:00.011-07:00

I have found my POT 'O GOLD in my family. They mean so much to me, and I can't imagine my life without them. You can call it LUCK, but I call it a BLESSING to have 4 beautiful girls! Each one of them light up my life, and I love them for the little ladies they are becoming.

I still haven't figured out what to tell people when they ask me, "how many kids do you have?", so I just say 4, and they can figure it out. We consider ourselves LUCKY to have the gospel in our lives, and so LUCKY to be able to see our LITTLE ANGEL again and to be able to raise her. What a joy and blessing this will be.

We are LUCKY to live in Heber close to family, and to live in this neigborhood. We are LUCKY the girls can go to school, and experience freedom and growth. LUCKY that Hal has a job and that Elisa can stay at home.
We are just a LUCKY family!

So here 's to the LUCK 'O THE IRISH...(Hal needs it, girls in their teenage years..are Wonderful, Emotional, Exciting, Emotional, Lots of Fun, Emotional...you get the picture)

Chelsea...almost 14! She even got GREEN rubber
bands on her braces just for St. Patty's Day!

Courtney...9 years old, and decked out
in GREEN...her face had a 3 leaf clover,
her nails got painted GREEN, a clover
ribbon around her wrist, and just before
she walked out the door to school, she added
a GREEN beaded necklace, and GREEN
jacket, and I am sure you didn't miss the GREEN
headband with the clovers.

Cashlyn didn't feel very well today, so
her picture was a little GREEN!

SEE HOW LUCKY WE ARE!

When I grow UP, I want to be...

2009-03-11T19:05:00.004-07:00

Courtney plays on this little basketball team. They
are the TIMBERWOLVES...
Every Saturday we go to Show Low to watch
her and the team play. It started out as an all
girls team, then they added Caden Owens.
This is what Courtney said, "Ever since we got
Caden on our team(he started the second game)
we have won our games." We just started laughing.
We thought it was cute.
On the team we have, Lto R:
Kaitlyn Porter, Hannah Whipple, Savannah Reidhead,
Courtney Hall, Makenzie Willis, Lauren Hancock
and the only boy in front: Caden Owens

The games are so cute, the coaches get to go
out on the court and tell the kids where to go
and what to do!

So we were talking about what to do this summer
and Courtney pipes in...All I want to do is go
to basketball camps, so I can be a professional
basketball player. We thought really?

Makenzie's Mom (Robyn) and Savannah's Mom
(LeAnna) are the coaches...they do a great job,
and have way more patience than I do!

Salon Day

2009-03-10T16:37:00.001-07:00

Thanks to a BEAUTIFUL Aunt Nikki, we got to have a day
at the Salon. Nikki spent her morning making her nieces and
nephews look good. We are glad that Nikki knows how to
fix us up, and that we don't have to pay a FORTUNE to look
great! All together Nikki had 8 haircuts and more. (whatever
we wanted, styles, nails, cuts...etc.)

CHELSEA got her hair trimed & Caitlyn got a cut.

COURTNEY got layers in her hair and pretty pink nail polish!

Caden got a haircut and style!

A Poem that is So True!

2009-03-08T18:14:00.002-07:00

I have been reflecting lately about the events
of the week of May 26th. Sometimes it is hard
for me to think of Hal's grief, because I am
so consumed in mine. So when I read this poem
I thought it speaks the truth.

A Father's Grief

It must be very difficult
To be a man in grief,
Since "men don't cry"
and "men are strong"
No tears can bring relief.

It must be very difficult
To stand up to the test
And field the calls and visitors
So she can get some rest.

They always ask if she's all right
And what she's going through.
But seldom take his hand and ask,
"My friend, but how are you?"

He hears her crying in the night
And thinks his heart will break.
He dries her tears and comforts her,
But "stays strong" for her sake.

It must be very difficult
To start each day anew.
And try to be so very brave-
He lost his baby too.

Eileen Knight Hagemeister

Happy Birthday Courtney

2009-03-06T00:45:00.010-07:00

We are so glad to have COURTNEY in our family. We waited for 5 years after Chelsea was born for her. When we went to the doctor for my check up, the doctor said, "how about we have a baby today." I was 2 weeks early and so I said I guess. He told us to go to the hospital and check in, so I went to Walmart to walk around and cry! (I had never been induced before and Chelsea's birthday was in 2 weeks) We got to the hospital about 5pm, and COURTNEY was born at 1 am. I wanted to name her "Bridget" and Hal didn't really like that name for her after he saw her. I said well then COURTNEY, and he said, "I like it."

So COURTNEY JANAE it was!

COURTNEY was a happy baby, and a
sweet little toddler.

COURTNEY has gotten the best or at lest

the most creative homemade birthday cakes...

a dora cake, a little mermaid cake,

strawberry shortcake--twice,
hannah montana cake.

COURTNEY is very sweet, and
says funny things...most recently she said
this when she lost a tooth..."I feel like
one of my family members is missing."

COURTNEY is a great big sister.

She loves to SKI, play with FRIENDS,

BAKE in the kitchen, SING SONGS,

DANCE, play GAMES on the computer and Wii.

COURTNEY loves PRIMARY & Family Home Evening!

She hasn't decided if she likes to hunt yet.(poor dad)

One of my favorite things about

COURTNEY is...everytime there

is a birthday in our family(cousins,

grandparents, you name it) COURTNEY

will go to her room pick out some

of her personal things and wrap them

for the birthday person...a special

gift just from COURTNEY!

For COURTNEY's 8th birthday we got

to go on a Disney Cruise. It was a

great vacation and we are glad we

spent 1 whole week together as a

family! A Vacation we will never forget!

COURTNEY is a special girl, and we

are glad she is part of our family!

WE love you COURTNEY...

HAPPY 9th BIRTHDAY!

Wednesday Lunch

2009-03-04T21:33:00.004-07:00

Most Wednesday's I love inviting Chelsea's
friends over for lunch. They are a good group
of girls, and always so polite when they are here.
But most of all, they say they like my cooking...
and since my family doesn't(j/K) I will keep these
girls around!

back row LtoR
Morgan Reidhead, Lindsay Crandell, Rachel Theil,
Felicia Curry & Bethanie Stephens
front row LtoR
Chelsea Hall, Katia Honsinger & Analise Franco

Felicia, Katia & Rachel

Lindsay, Analise & Bethanie

Felicia, Katia, Rachel, & Chelsea

GOOFY GIRLS

Holy Guacamole!

2009-03-03T21:29:00.005-07:00

Avocados were really cheap at Bashas one week,
so we bought several (like 20) so we could make
some great GUACAMOLE. Hal loves guacamole and apparently so does Cashlyn!

DIG IN!

I am sure Cashlyn got more on her face,
hands and clothes than she did in her mouth!
Oh well, it still was good!

Farewell

2009-03-03T21:16:00.004-07:00

It has been 9 years since I had been to a missionary setting apart, and I was privileged to attend Anthony Cronin's. Thanks for the invite! It was great to be there and witness the power of the priesthood. To watch a great Stake Presidency bear testimony of missions, and the gospel. I loved being there and partaking of the Spirit. My family has been very close to Anthony for the last 3+ years, and we are so excited for him to serve a mission. He will be a great Missionary!

Elder Cronin with an Elder serving in Heber
and our Stake President.(Farr)

The most touching moment of the night, when
Billy went to hug Anthony...Billy was just sobbing
the whole time...it tugged at my heart.

2 years Baby! It will be a long time, but worth
the wait.

Swimming In January

2009-02-10T19:06:00.001-07:00

While visiting with Aunt Becca, Gma Wendy let us all stay
at the condos in Scottsdale. The condos had a heated
swimming pool, so they(notice not me or Hal) went for
a dive. Chelsea and Courtney had lots of fun. Cashlyn
loved the hot tub, but didn't venture into the pool!
We had a great relaxing time, and my girls loved doing
something with Aunt Becca and Gma Wendy!

Ah-So's

2009-02-05T14:45:00.003-07:00

One weekend we went to the valley to visit Aunt Rebecca,
Wendy's sister who came from Philadelphia. We all went
to eat at a fun resturant...Ah-So's. They cook food in front
of you, and make it entertaining. The kids loved all the magic
from the grill. Chelsea tried Sushi-I don't think she is liking it
to well. Courtney was enchanted by tricks, and Cashlyn
enjoyed trying to feed herself. It was a fun resturant. The
food was pretty good too. All in all, it was great.

How to make a CUPCAKE!

2009-01-28T12:30:00.012-07:00

1st get a Cupcake Maker for Christmas!

Add 1 SUPER EXCITED GIRL(Courtney)
and take everything out of the box

Choose your favorite kind of cake

and pour into bowl

Add right(important) ammount of water

Stir with all your strength...don't smile!

Pour mix into CUPCAKE holder (with
the disposable paper)

Set CUPCAKE into microwaveable dish!

Microwave for the 45 seconds...or less if you
want the CUPCAKE in one piece

See what is left of the CUPCAKE

Get ready to frost CUPCAKE

Scoop frosting into little hole on the "froster",
this goes on the CUPCAKE machine

Hold top down, and watch frosting
squirt EVERYWHERE!!!

Enjoy what there is of the frosting
and CUPCAKE!

End resutls:

CUPCAKE machine that
doesnt' work(they never do, and don't
tell that to the kids)

Quality "few minutes" with your child

Priceless memories, with a satisfied, happy
child who did almost everything on their own!

New Years Party

2009-01-22T15:49:00.002-07:00

This year we had a fun New Years Party at my Mom and Dad's house. All of my family came(except we missed Char and her gang). We had lots of fun playing games, visiting and starting a new tradition. We had homemade pizza (great recipe) and homemade rootbeer. We also had several "specialty drinks"(no alcohol needed,we are goofy enough.) There were Appletini's, Margaritas, and Pina Coladas. One of the high lights was a bowling tournament on the Wii! The championship round ended up being RaChelle, Nikki, Dylan and Caden(1st time to bowl). We all had a great time being with each other. Most of all of the adults stayed up way past midnight..and so did a few of the kids. We all looked forward to a great New Year!

Christmas with the Halls

2009-01-17T15:22:00.005-07:00

Christmas this year came fast...I wasn't exacty
ready for it. But we all had a good time, and
Santa found us. Cashlyn loved all the toys she got!
Courtney was excited for a cupcake bakers.
Chelsea enjoyed the new makeup & ripstick.
All my girls loved the new pajamas from
Gma & Gpa Baum. I know we were blessed
this Christmas, we all had a good time!
The only thing I wish, was that we would
have spent a little more time doing something
for and remembering Carissa more!

3 Red Dresses

2009-01-17T15:01:00.001-07:00

Cashlyn did NOT want her picture taken this year. She did NOT want to stan, she did Not want smile, she just didn't know why it was a big deal to get her picture taken. I can't believe I have a little girl who doesn't want to pose for the camera. So we got a few pictures here and there, and I will just take what I get. We love our PRECIOUS little girl!
Courtney is such a pretty girl, she is growing up so fast. We love her smile, and how she loves to laugh. She loved having her picture taken in front of our Christmas tree. We made her take pictures 2 times, just so we could get a really good one! What a cute girl she is becoming.
Chelsea, our teenager! She loves to take pictures, and why not? Chelsea is such a beautiful young lady, with that dark hair and blue eyes. Chelsea loves to match the girls, but wear her own style...and that is great! We love how she helps around the house and with the girls. We love you Chelsea!

A Tree for an Angel

2008-12-27T16:48:00.000-07:00

Every year we put up a real Christmas tree
with homemade ornaments. This year, I wanted to do
something a little different...We got a real tree, and I decided
to add blue and silver ornaments, in memory of
Carissa!
The Tree didn't seem complete, so I gathered all of Carissa's stuff
and started putting them on the tree.

1st we put the bow that was in her casket spray on
the very top, with her picture underneath. Then
we added a barney movie, her cinderella shoes and tea set.
We put on her dora the explore purse and back pack.
And finally we wrapped light blue snowflake
ribbon around the entire tree. Everyone loved
coming to our house and seeing the tree. It was beautiful!
My girls declared this tree to be the prettiest tree we
have ever had. I truly loved it, and having something to
remember Carissa was great! We love and miss her!

Carpenter Christmas Party

2008-12-27T16:34:00.000-07:00

Every year we have a Carpenter Christmas
Party...this includes all of my Mom's brothers
and siters and their kids.(all my cousins) We
love to get together, eat, and the "host" family
comes up with a program. This year the program
was lip singing to Christmas songs, with certain
props. Some songs were: Grandma(my Mom)
got ran over by a reindeer, Feliz Navidad(Chelsea
and Aunt Sherry shook it down), All I want for
Christmas is you(Back up singer Nikki)...and other
songs. It was lots of fun, and we had a great time
visiting with everyone. Can't wait for next year!
P.S. I do have LOTS of blackmail pictures...

100 Years Old!

2008-12-14T16:50:00.004-07:00

My Mom and her Grandma, Thelma Carpenter,
who will be 100 years old on December 27th.

Five Generations, My Great Grandma Thelma Carpenter
My Grandma, Donna Carpenter, My Mom, Cashlyn and me

My kids and their Great-Great Grandma. When
she walked in the house, we all wanted pictures, and
she said my hair is in rollers. We didn't care. She said
"Won't I be so beautiful?" She is a cute, little old lady.
Grandma has buried 3 of her 4 children, lives in Thatcher
with very little assistance, loves the gospel, and is full of life.
She is independent, humorous, and we are glad she is
still around. We love our Grandma's.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-14T16:43:00.001-07:00

Thanksgiving was lots FUN this year. Charlayne and Russ had everyone at their home in Chandler, and we are so glad they put up with all the kids, lots of messes, and just let us come and go. We had lots of good food,thanks to all the cooks, but most of all the best company. Meghan's barbie car was a highlight...all the kids wanted to drive it. Cashlyn didn't like olives, and didn't like them on her fingers. We all ate until we were stuffed, and then stuffed again.

A THANKFUL Heart

2008-11-19T21:23:00.007-07:00

I LOVE this season of Thanksgiving, and of the CHRISTmas Spirit. At times like this it is easy to reflect on the good of your family, community, and all around as many truly engage in a Christ like attitude. This year is no different for me, except I have cause to truly be Thankful, not only for the blessings I receive, but for a Savior who sends miracles, love, kindness, tender mercies, and much more that now I can see with a different eye.
About 6 months ago, my life and those that I love most had a unforgettable life changing event. Carissa Gwen, my little 2 year, was killed in a tragic accident. Since that day, my life has not been the same. I may be the same on the outside, and in my mannerisms, but deep down my heart is different. Life is different. Nothing will be the same again, yet somehow, it will. My perspective on life is different...The most important things in life aren't THINGS. There are miracles that happen everyday; I have to choose to see the good, to see the miracles. This month of Thanksgiving, is also a time of reflection. So here goes:

Carissa's memory lives on, she is forever in our hearts. I reflect on her short life, the joy and happiness she brought us; we are eternally grateful of having the opportunity to have such a sweet, innocent, energetic, loving spirit in our home. I think of her everyday, and most often wish her here with me. But I know she is in Heaven, watching from above.

The life of my cousin Jeremy was one to be patterned after. He loved life, laughter, and lived everyday to the fullest. Although Jeremy left his mortal existence too soon, in our eyes,...heaven is blessed by his contagious happy go--lucky attitude, filled with determination to be a better person.

I am THANKFUL for
MY Family
MY Sweet(not so little, anymore)Girls
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Eternal Families
A husband who holds and honors the Priesthood
My home
My husbands job
Sisters & a Brother who are always there for me
Cousins, Grandparents, Uncles and Aunts
TEMPLES
Parents who lovingly give, and always welcome everyone to their home
Memories of LOVED ones
A healthy body
My husbands family, who were strong enough to join the church, and help us in all we do, and in whatever we need
The chance to be a mother
The opportunity to reflect upon all that God has given me, and the opportunity to give THANKS to him.

I look forward to this season of THANKSGIVING, and of Christmas. I am thinking of something(any suggestions are welcomed) where we can remember Carissa in our home during this time, and would love for all to participate in her memory as well. She is our Angel, our guiding light, we will strive harder to obtain Celestial Glory because this is where she will be and we want to be with her!

In Memory of my cousin, JEREMY

2008-11-10T12:21:00.001-07:00

Jeremy Bowles passed away peacefully in his sleep, November 3rd 2008, after a 14 year battle with Crohn's disease. Jeremy was known for his love of life and family. He had a contagious laugh, that he will be remembered for. Jeremy would often laugh so hard to the point of breathlessness. Jeremy was a great example to all and will be sorely missed. He left behind, his wife, Sara and 4 small children.

DAIRY QUEEN OF HEBER IS GRACIOUSLY DONATING ALL PROCEEDS TO HIS FAMILY ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12th, FROM 3-9 PM. WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE AS MANY SUPPORTERS AS POSSIBLE, SO PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD AND COME AND GET A TREAT! This will be a tremendous help to his family.

Halloween!

2008-11-10T10:33:00.007-07:00

Cashlyn as a candy corn girl!

Courtney is a fifty's chick!

Chelsea as the witch. She won best costume
at the youth halloween dance! She looked great!

Halloween this year was bitter-sweet. I love to dress my girls up, and make sure they have cute costumes. Over and Over I kept thinking...what would I have dressed Carissa in, and then I decided I didn't know. Since she wasn't here, I don't know what she would have dressed up as, because I really didn't think about what she would have been, just that she would have looked so cute as a candy corn like her sister, a princess, or whatever the costume might have been. I still had fun and my girls were cute.

Annual Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-30T12:46:00.001-07:00

We have made it a tradition to carve pumpkins with as
many Baum cousins that want to come. This has been a fun
night and something to look forward to. The girls love
picking out their design and attempting to carve it into
the pumpkin...the Mom's and Dad's are the ones who usually
finish them. The best part, is when everyone is done, we turn
out the lights and watch all the pumpkins glow. The carvings
look amazing. What a great tradition, who ever started it!

Tis the Season!

2008-10-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

It is the most wonderful time of the year-
At least for Hal. It's the season for hunting.
Chelsea went out with her dad and got a deer, for
the second year in a row. She was so excited, and he
was proud of her perfect shot, right threw the heart.
Hal loves to be out in the woods: hunting, bugleing,
calling, putting out cameras, scouting and of course
shooting his own deer. (he drew a tag this year,
he is still waiting on an elk tag). Oh well, it is the most
wonderful time of the year....for someone.
I should be grateful that my husband isn't around to
bug me as much, but I am not that trilled. A day
here and there...but NOT the whole season, which
in our family lasts from January-December!
TIS THE SEASON...

Happy Birthday Cashlyn!

2008-10-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

CASHLYN'S Birthday was September 20th.
We had a great time celebrating her special day
twice. 1st at Gma Wendy's and then at Gma Baum's.
Thanks for all the great gifts...she uses them regularly.

Cashlyn is our sweet baby, who brings lots of work and
joy to our family. She still loves to look at Carissa's pictures.
I think of how cute, and fun they would have had
as they grew up. I know Cashlyn misses her sister.

We love her, and are excited to watch her grow up.

Conference

2008-10-04T15:48:00.006-07:00

My blog is almost current, but before I forget I wanted to post about the Saturday Conference Session.
I enjoyed and loved listening to conference. It seems that when we truly listen, the speakers and the spirit testify and tell us specific things we need to hear. I loved listening to Sister Allred and her conversion story. What a sweet testimony about missionary work, and how not only is she a member of the church, but lots more because 2 missionaries taught her family. But the thing that stuck out in my mind, what I wanted to post and remember is...
FAITH is NOT only a Feeling, IT is a DECISION! What a powerful phrase. Lots that we do in the church and in our daily lives, are Decisions...not just feelings. It is a testimony to me, that unless we act, we are not making decisions(right or wrong)...we are simply feeling. And I know this conference has taught, that we are to act. What Elder Holland said about Angels watching over us, and helping us...that just hits too close to home, and I am glad that even though I think that Angels are near, I now have a confirmation from a prophet of the Lord, Angels are Near. How inspiring and touching. I also loved when Pres. Uchtdorf said...hope, faith and charity cannot exist without the other. What a wonderful blessing and opportunity to watch and listen to living prophets today.

This Little Piggy went to the Market

2008-10-04T15:45:00.000-07:00

Chelsea had a pig for 4H. It weighed three times as much as her,
but she still had to feed & water it everyday. Then in September
Chelsea got to take her pig to the fair, where she would show
the pig infront of a judge. Chelsea did well, she got 2nd place
in her weight class.(255 pounds) She also sold her pig(THANKS
to the HOME Center for buying it). Chelsea wants to raise
another pig next year...the parents say, we will see!

A Labor of Love

2008-10-04T15:25:00.001-07:00

Labor Day Weekend was full of FUN Family

Time. After spending the day shucking, blanching,

scraping and bagging corn we figured it to be cheaper

to buy the corn from the store. But what we learned

was harvesting what "we" grew, and spending

quality time with the family is what is important.

We also had a FUN cookout at the park, where we

played kick ball, and catching frisbees...a cheap, fun,

activity that will have lasting memories.

School Days

2008-10-01T18:27:00.006-07:00

Chelsea going to Jr. High...8th Grade! (wow, she is growing up fast)

This Year scCh00l came A liTtlE too soOn for me. I rEally enjOyed my SumMer...beIng Lazy, slEepiNg in, sWimMing, goinG to the ValLey aNd jusT spenDing Time with my Girls!
I do hoWever, liKe beIng Back on a r0utine, Having the girls in Bed before nine, SeeiNg the
Girl in theIr vaRiouS scHool acTivitEs & waTchiNg thEir fun, Beautiful peRsonaLities DeveLop. So heRe are The girLs' 1st dAy of School.(the post is a little late, but someday I will catch up)Courtney going to 2nd grade...she loves her teacher!

This what We did during the Summer...

2008-09-28T18:32:00.001-07:00

Lots of Time to Reflect

2008-09-17T18:58:00.004-07:00

I haven't been good about updating my blog every month. I am getting there, I want to post about the summer, and then about the girls starting school. But I just couldn't help but post some of my feelings about the past 2 weeks or so.

At times I feel like my heart obtained an open wound, and then there are times when I feel like my heart is not as heavy as before. During the last week, and since, I have had lots of time to reflect. Time to reflect on the events that took place during the week of May 26th, time to reflect on how it felt to loose a child, time to reflect on things that are most important in my life, and most importantly time to reflect on the life of my Savior, Jesus Christ.

Time to reflect on the events of the week of May 26th, I thought about that specific day and how I would have never guessed, or expected something of this magnitude to happen to my family. I relived the feelings as I helped another sweet, spiritual, strong family in my ward and neighborhood go thru the loss of their baby boy. It was a tender week for both of us. I remember how I felt as I saw the ward and community rally around them. I remember the comfort I felt as felt my Savior near, and the strenght the preisthood was. I thought of the tender mercies given to me, my family, and this other family. Most importantly I thought of the love my Savior has for me.

Time to reflect on how it felt to loose a child, I think about this alot. I know that I am not the only woman to loose a child, and this thought gives me comfort. In talking to that sweet sister, she reminded me about Mary. How Mary the mother of Jesus, lost a child too. I have thought about this today, and I feel sad, knowing that Mary had to suffer. Mary had to watch her son nailed to a cross, and suffer for each one of us. My heart breaks, I cannot imagine watching a child physically suffer so that ONE might be saved. I love Carissa, just as each of the mothers who have lost a child love their own. But I know my love is but a small fraction in comparison to the love Christ has for each of us.

Time to reflect on the things that are most important to me, and about my Savior, Jesus Christ. I was reminded today by a dear friend, that we need to be more CHRISTIAN. We need to love as Christ did. Unless we LIVE by the things we are taught, going to church doesn't matter. The gospel of Jesus Christ is important, but not only did Christ teach the things we must do, he LIVED them. Family is the most important unit, and relationship we can have on this earth and in the life to come. The temples are the house of the Lord, and only in them can FAMILIES BE FOREVER. I always had the goal to obtain the celestial kingdom, but now my goal is 10 fold. I have a sweet little girl, who has already proved herself and I want to be with her. FAMILY, IT'S ABOUT TIME! Nothing is more important to me than The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and my family! I love the phrase: "Together is my favorite place", how true.

My heart is full, and my mind is doing circles, but I know the Lord loves me and comforts me. The power of prayer is real, and it is a blessing to pray to loving Heavenly Father who hears and answers me. The tender mercies of this past week made me realize how much I am loved, and how much Christ is aware of us. I love to serve others, and it was a great pleasure and blessing to help this family. Blessings are all around us, are we willing to accept and acknowledge them?

Through the Eyes of a Child

2008-09-11T17:08:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to add one more thing about the birthday party we had for Carissa. My sweet niece Meghan came up to Heber shortly after we celebrated Carissa's birthday. This is how the conversation went...

Meghan "Aunt Elisa, we missed Carissa's birthday party"
Elisa-"You did, well thats Ok, Meghan"
Meghan-"But we will come next year time"
Elisa-"That's good Meghan, I hope you can come"
Meghan-"We have to come, cause someone has to blow out her candles"

I thought how sweet...it is all about the candles. Little children are so pure and simple. Who cares about the presants, who cares about the gifts. It's all because you have to blow out the candles.

3 Flowers

2008-08-26T19:24:00.007-07:00

It is a very different feeling to celebrate a birthday for someone you love, without them actually being present. I haven't decided yet, if I liked it or not. Nevertheless, we wanted to remember Carissa and the life that she lived, so we had a birthday party (kind of) for her. It was a sad day for me, but I knew that I wanted to remember her on that day (July 8th) and for the rest of her birthdays.

The girls left flowers on her grave, one for each
year of how old she would have been.

All the Heber cousins let balloons go, in her honor.

4th of July Pictures

2008-07-30T17:28:00.004-07:00

Grandpa & Courtney enjoying the parade

Cashlyn asleep before the fireworks

Hal at the parade with water gun...FUN!

Carissa's firework

Courtney signing the firework

Signing the fireworks & talking with the man incharge

4th of July

2008-07-30T17:27:00.002-07:00

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

4th of July
4th of July this year was lots of FUN, as usual. We love to have the Carpenter family come up, and spend the weekend with us. There is always good food, visiting with family, and of course, an abundance of delicious food.

This year our family started off the 4th of July weekend, by participating in a Heber tradition. Every year, the men in charge of the fireworks let off a firework in memory of someone who has passed away. We went to the house, and got to sign the big firework, it was the biggest fireworks they make. We could write whatever we wanted on it. They told us Carissa's firework would be the last firework of the night. It was a fun experience, one that our family didn't know about. I guess when you join "the club" you learn about certain things.

After the firework signning, we went to Carissa's grave and put 4th of July balloons there. A lady was there and gave the kids pennies to put on the grave. She told how the pennies are like Angels from heaven. It was fun to take all the kids back to the grave, and let them throw the pennies.

Pennies from Heaven

2008-07-30T16:58:00.003-07:00

Pennies from Heaven

I found a penny today, laying on the ground,

But it's not just a penny, this little penny I found.

Found pennies come from Heaven,

Angels toss them down.

When an Angel sends a penny,

It's sometimes just to cheer you up...

To make a smile out of your frown-

Or simply to remind you...YOU ARE SPECIAL!!!

I found a penny just for you.

Found pennies are gifts from Angels

To be kept for yourself or to share with others.

This penny was meant just for you...

To remind you---YOU ARE SPECIAL TOO!!!

The Best Family

2008-06-17T18:58:00.005-07:00

I have been thinking alot about the events of the past few weeks. I am trying to write things down, and want to remember everyone who has done so much for us. I know I haven't sent out all my thankyou notes, but I wanted to PAY A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO MY FAMILY. We have a great family. We(Hal & I and girls) could not have survived these last few weeks without them. So THANK YOU family. My parents were always by our side, with whatever we needed. I loved that my parents opened their home to so many, and that all feel welcomed there. I am grateful for a dad, who honors his priesthood, and was able to give me a blessing when I needed it most. Hal's parents were also there, and many who know Wendy and Hal came to support us, through them. My sisters and brother did so much for us, they helped us through a difficult time. They helped us in anyway we needed, but more importantly they were there when we needed them the most. From the clothing and such, pictures, trinkets, frames, even money, our families were there from the beginning. Valerie and Haskel, and his parents, came home early from their camping trip to help out. They always asked what they could do to help, and wanted to do more. Words can not express our gratitude, love and support we have felt from our families. FAMILY is the thing that matters most. We want our extended family to know, we love and appreciate them . We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful, loving family. We appreciate every single one of YOU! We are very humbled by ALL who came to the funeral. There were lots of family that traveled far, and came to be with us. We could not have asked for any more; we know we are loved, and that our family cares about us. We love you all! THANKYOU.

Memmories of Carissa

2008-06-15T15:05:00.008-07:00

Carissa was the best baby, and hardly ever cried. She had lots of dark hair, sweet little lips, and the biggest brown eyes that would melt your heart. For the 1st year and a half of her life, she only wanted her mom. And now we are happy to say she is Daddy’s little girl.

Carissa loved the outdoors, and loved to be with her dad in the woods. Carissa had her own fishing pole, and liked to go fishing with whoever would take her. She knew the sounds of elk and tried to copy them. Carissa could identify the difference of an elk or deer. Whenever in the woods Carissa would say, “I see the elk”, even if there weren’t any animals around.

Carissa loved to watch barney, and recently she loved Dora the explorer and Go Diego, go. After the girls went to school, that’s what we watched all morning. But the best part is: Carissa had to have popcorn. So every morning we would have popcorn, and watch her shows. Even if her sisters were watching their shows, Carissa would climb up, and put her Barney tape in the VCR.

Carissa loved to be a shadow to her big sisters, Chelsea and Courtney. She was also excited to be a big sister, when little Cashlyn was born.

Carissa would sleep with Chelsea, sing and dance with Courtney, and loved to put Cashlyn in the doll stroller and push her around. Carissa was up when the girls were getting ready for school, so she could feed the pig, and tell them goodbye. I think she just wanted to make sure Mom or Dad wasn’t leaving and she would miss the opportunity to go. Carissa loved to talk on the phone, and would call anyone who would listen.

Blue was Carissa’s favorite color, and she told everyone. She also came up with colors for everyone in the family. My favorite was when we asked her what is dad’s favorite color, she would say camouflage. Carissa knew she had big brown eyes, but also knew the color of everyone’s eyes in our family. She knew that 3 of us have brown, and 3 of us have blue.

Carissa loved her nursery class, and to sing primary songs. Her favorite was “Book of Mormon” stories. She memorized the 1st and 2nd articles of faith, and would proudly say them to all who would listen. She would say “le belief, and in HIM son” and at the end of the 2nd A of F it was “not for Adam’s concussions.

Carissa was a sweet little girl. We will always remember her, and she will be truly missed.

Remembering Carissa

2008-06-13T18:27:00.003-07:00

Tragedy or Destiny?

2008-06-13T18:19:00.003-07:00

Here are some of my thoughts:

The Lord has blessed our lives, through this trial. We know that it was her time to go. The events that happened are evidence of this. My entire family (about 25 of us, including 10-15 grandkids) were all at my mom's house. We had a great day, the kids playing outside, and us visiting. It was Monday the 26th, and my sisters were just getting ready to go back to Mesa after a great Memmorial weekend. My husband, Hal, needed to move his truck so my sister could get her car out. No kids or other adults(except my sister in her car) were outside at the time. Carissa(my little girl) ran out, by herself, around 4 vehicles, and behind my husbands truck. My sister in her car was the only one who saw what happend, and couldn't get her car in park fast enough. My sister picked Carissa up off the ground, and handed her to my husband. Hal and an EMS neighbor worked on her, then the ambulance and crews arrived. They all worked her about 1 hour,(There was no hope from the beginning) but nevertheless they tried.

The week was long. But thru prayer, and blessings my family pulled through. I had lots of friends who gave lots (scrapbooking her pictures, making her guest memmorial book, and nice video), we were truly blessed.

This a great trial, no one should have to bear. But I know that some children are TOO PURE, INNOCENT, and SWEET to have to endure this life. The miracle of it all is...I will see her again, and FAMILIES CAN BE TOGETHER FOREVER.

My house is empty without a two year old. My heart breaks, and the days are long. The Lord strengthens me and through friends like you, and lots in my town, I have the will to go on. Truly words of comfort, and unspoken thoughts have blessed our lives. I

You can go to www.owensmortuary. com to see her obituary and picutre.

Disney World

2008-05-17T15:04:00.003-07:00

After many late nights and lots of partying, we decided we couldn't be in Florida and NOT go to Walt Disney World. So Monday morning, dragging ourselves out of bed, we ventured to the theme park. Just getting to the park is a "ride" in itself. After parking, you get on a train to a boat dock, then bored the boat to Disney's entrance. This process (which we would have to repeat at the end) took about 1 hour. At first we were slow going, but by midday, we were having lots of fun. Disney World isn't as big as Disneyland, and by 5:00pm, including a stop for lunch we had seen the whole park. Carissa, Cashlyn, and Elisa waited for the others on most of the rides. Chelsea and Courtney loved the rollercoasters. Wendy and Hal had a great time taking those that could ride, and then switching off if Elisa would ride. Courtney loved Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Chelsea loved Splash Mountain. Big hint: Don't take your own stroller(too bulky, and extra work), rent one of theirs. The double stroller was 30 bucks for the day, Chelsea (yep, Chelsea), Courtney and the 2 little girls all used it. It was WELL worth the money. I am ready to go back. (Maybe not to Disney World, but to Disneyland)

Swimming with the Dolphins

2008-05-17T14:56:00.004-07:00

The day we went to Nassau, in the Bahamas, we spent the day at the hotel Atlantis. This in itself is a vacation of its own. The hotel is huge, has several swimming pools with slides and the works. It also has a dolphin habitat, where you can swim with the dolphins. Wendy, Chelsea, Courtney, and Hal Jr. got to swim with them. They all loved it. Chelsea and Courtney were a little scared and needed Hal to help them, but over all, it was GREAT! A once in a lifetime experience.

Disney Cruise

2008-05-17T14:41:00.004-07:00

We decided to start the summer early and went with Hal's parents on a Disney Cruise. Chelsea and Courtney got to miss school, and we all went to the sunshine state for some fun. Hal, Wendy, Chelsea, and Courtney flew out early Wednesday morning to go to the beach and play around. Hal, Elisa, Carissa and Cashlyn were the NOT so smart ones, and took a red-eye later that night. After meeting up, we got on the cruise ship Thursday about 1:00pm. Our fun was just beginning. The girls loved being on the boat, and seeing everything Disney. Each night we felt like we were in a 5 star resturant. The ship feeds you SO good. Mickey and Minnie were always available for pictures, and we took lots. Our 1st stop was Nassau, in the Bahamas. The beach was so fun, the water crystal clear. It was paradise. At this stop, we went to the hotel Atlantis, and played around. (See next post) Back to the ship after a long day. The second day, we went to disney's private island...Castaway Cay. This was fun. Hal Jr., Wendy, and Chelsea went snorkeling. The rest of us layed on the beach, and played in the water. It was back on the boat for our last night. Disney had lots of shows (all about disney's characters), a pirate night, teen club(which Chelsea loved and spent most of her time), a club for Courtney (went there every once in a while, she was nervous to be by herself), movies, LOTS of food, swimming pools. It was GREAT fun. I would love to go on another Disney cruise when my kids are older.

The Turkey got away

2008-05-17T14:30:00.003-07:00

Everyone knows one of Hal's favorite things (or should I say his MOST favorite) is Hunting. Hal drew a spring turkey tag, and he was so excited. Hal arranged his work schedule so he could go out opening morning. At 5:00am, he came home and went out to the woods with a buddy. About 7:00am Hal calls, I am thinking, Oh great! he got the turkey...the hunting is over. Not so lucky. Instead, Hal said he got a hole in his hand, and needed stitches. What? This is how the story goes..."we were riding in the truck, and my buddy looks over, there is a huge Tom(male turkey). So after fumbling with door to get it unlocked (1st clue), I get out. The riffle was locked, and I couldn't get the gun to cock (2nd clue). I started running after the turkey, and I fell on a rock (3rd clue), and then the blood started coming. I managed to shot at the turkey, but only hit some feathers. The turkey got away. (good job turkey, I mean poor Hal). I look up in the trees, and there is the hunter, who was calling in the turkey. (not his day). I started running back to the truck.(couldn't run fast enough)." Moral of the story...stay in bed! Well needless to say, after several days of hunting, between work and vacation Hal did NOT get a turkey. Oh well, there is always next year. Right?

Shots & Casts

2008-04-18T16:45:00.004-07:00

The Halls had an eventful week. My girls love to be in the spotlight...but this time I am NOT talking about photo shots, or Acting casts. It all started when Chelsea got home from track and said she couldn't walk. Her ankle was swollen, she said it was sprained. So on Friday(last week) we took her to the doctor, and got x-rays. Whoa and behold Monday morning the doc called and guess what the acting was real...she broke her ankle. Well, being the smart Mom that I am...and to save gas, I decided to take the two little girls to get shots, and Chelsea to get a cast at the same time. Yep, I am bright. One in a cast, and two with leg pain. I think I need a CAT SCAN! (lol)Chelsea is hopping along good and wants the cast off, to run and jump, but it will be another 2 weeks. Carissa and Cashlyn were FUSSY for 2 days, with fevers and kind of sick...but now they are on the mend. The 2 girls need to go back in 2 months for more shots. This time I hope NOT to bring a third child along.

Hair & Nails

2008-04-10T17:47:00.003-07:00

Chelsea & Courtney LOVE to have their hair and nails done. So thanks to Aunt Nikki, Chelsea got acrylic nails on Saturday during Conference. Courtney is in the Girl Scout Club and today they went to Showlow to the college. She came back with an "updo" and a manicure. Now my girls are STYLIN!

Little Girls, Little Girls

2008-04-03T19:10:00.001-07:00

We love our little girls...well some of them are NOT so little anymore. I (Elisa) hope to post lots about our Girls...they are CUTE, FUNNY, ADORABLE, SMART, and everything else a parent brags about. Hope you enjoy our posts, most of them will be about the little JOYS of our lives.