The Jolly Holley's!

So Proud!

2011-10-15T14:53:00.000-07:00

I am finally getting around to posting pics and updates from the last six months! This is what we sacrificed a year for, a beautiful April day in Arizona, when we watched Ryan graduate from the Intelligence Academy at Fort Huachuca.

Right after Graduation

Ryan winning an award for a perfect PT score!! The military whipped him into the best shape of his life!!

Ryan's home for the eight months he was in Arizona.

His company in formation.

Ryan with Sgt. C.

He made some life long friends while he was gone and two of them were his Sgts, which is usually frowned upon. Ryan was Student First Sgt during his cycle at Ft. Huachuca over 250 soldiers.

Happy to be together again!

Someday I will post my feelings and emotions from that day, and the year we spent apart. It was one of the hardest, and best years of my life. I learned a lot about myself, my strengths and weaknesses, as well as the strengths of my husband. We grew as a family, and learned to rely on the Lord to guide us during the hardest times. But most importantly I learned what it means to be a military family, and the sacrifice that millions of soldiers and their families make every day by wearing the uniform.

This could get addicting!

2011-03-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

Last week amidst my crazy hectic life, I had to have an emergency appendectomy!! Yeah me! Nothing like a little stomach ache to put you out of commission for a few weeks! Enter in my amazing sister Sheri! First of all, she had my favorite flowers sent, Gerber Daisies, and then over nighted my favorite cookie dough under the sun, from this little bakery in Salt Lake, called RubySnap. The cookie is 'Margo', and it is a chocolate cinnamon dough with a molten mint chocolate center, rolled in raw turbinado sugar, seriously, they are so dang good, and I have them frozen in my freezer, ready to bake, at a moments notice! As if that wasn't enough, she hired The Cleaning Ladies to come and attend to my poor two week neglected house! Oh my heck, when I came home Friday, I thought I had died and gone to heaven. My house was clean, and not just cleaned, but organized and cleaned. They made beds and washed walls and cleaned under the sink, the stove and oven, behind the tv, moved all the furniture and vacuumed underneath, organized toys and cubbies, floors, bathrooms, showers, sinks, you name it, they cleaned it! And, left all the toilet paper rolls in cute little rose shapes, I almost cried!!

But, I can't give all the props to my sis, I do have the most amazing friends and family. As I texted my girlfriend at 4:30am from the ER to let her know I wouldn't be able to do carpool that morning, I think by 8:15, she had arranged meals for two weeks, and playdates for my children. I feel so blessed and grateful for all who stepped in to help, it was hard for Ryan to be away, knowing that I was down for the count, but he knew between my mom, and my church family and friends, I would be just fine, and I was!

Now if the swelling would just go down, so I don't look like I actually had a baby, even though it feels the same as a C-section, I would be good to go!

The TSA would have had a field day with this!

2011-02-01T22:18:00.000-08:00

So, here was Ryan's idea for sneaking Adeline back to the base with him!! She seriously let him carry her around in there for hours, just giggling and giggling!!

I tried it myself, but only my big toe would fit! Hurry home honey we miss you :(

Meet the Newest Member of our Family!!

2010-12-20T22:09:00.000-08:00

I know what you all were thinking, and if you had seen my husband oogle over this precious baby the other night at a Christmas party, this post may have rang true, but for the sake of my sanity, this guy is only around for the holidays!!

We received the sweetest gift from a cute little couple in our church. It is the Elf on the Shelf book! I don't know if you have heard about it, but if you haven't run out to your local book seller and buy it now!! He came on December 1st, so that night we read the story, and then named our little man. His name is Snaps, and we thought that was fitting for an elf. Every day until Christmas he keeps an eye on all of the happenings around our home, and then at night, he flys back to the North Pole to tell Santa all the nice things the kids have done that day, and the not so nice things too! When he comes back in the morning, he is always in a new place, so the kids have fun finding him, and the little treasure he brings back and places in our advent countdown. It has been a fun little morning ritual, the kids are always so excited to see what he brought, and where he ended up. This morning he was in Adeline's little baby highchair, and she was so delighted, except for when it was time to feed her baby, and then Snaps had to find a new place to sit!!

I love this new tradition that we are adding to our ever growing list of Christmas magical moments!

Five Months Down, Six More to Go

2010-11-13T13:31:00.000-08:00

Obviously it has been a LONG time since I have blogged, but it is either dinner on the table and a semi clean house, or an updated blog. If you miss my boring life updates that much, cook me dinner and clean my house, and I will blog, blog, blog! Otherwise here is a super condensed version of our life the last five months!

June-Schools out, and summer begins! We also spent two weeks in Utah, visiting my sister. However, on the first morning of our trip, my mother tripped down the stairs and broke her ankle in three places, spent four days in the hospital, and the next eight weeks in a wheelchair. Imagine how awesome that was!! For the record, I did make it home from Utah with four kids and a completely immobile mother in 10 1/2 hours with 5 stops. Someone was watching over us that day!

The kids and cousins at Hogle Zoo, which we all got in for free, since it was Military Appreciation days, thankful for that small blessing!

July-Jr. Giants, and becoming a chaffeur to my gimp mother, although my arms did get buff carting her up and down my front steps twice a day for eight weeks, and I am now a master of wheelchair maneuvers, add that to my resume!

I am not really sure which one is up to bat, but you get the idea, a bunch of kids playing t-ball, aka a great way to burn through a month with twice a week games and practices, and a super fun end of the season bbq. As a side note, it did make the Giants winning the World Series so much more exciting for the boys, because I think they secretly thought they were part of the team, wearing their jerseys and hats every night!!

August-Ryans graduation from bootcamp, and my trip to South Carolina (see above posting), and then three weeks of total depression. I seriously cried the whole way home, I think the poor flight attendants thought I was either coming from or going to a funeral, it kind of felt that way, and still does. Oh, and Adelines 3rd birthday, which I threw together at the last minute, as an attempt to pull me out of the trenches, parties are a great distraction, so I throw alot of them. A reason to be creative and clean the house!

Have you ever seen anything cuter? I think not!!

September-Back to School, a quick visit home from the hubby, a new job, and a Pirate Party! I was super excited to have the boys in 1st grade, they are doing quite well, and I love their teacher. I also am doing Joy School again with Ashden, and I love it. Daddys visit was super short, but totally worth it! I started back at work for a good friend of mine that is an Insurance Agent, super low key, and the few hours a week is just enough to pay for those outrageous airplane tickets to bring Ryan home for holiday visits! Last but not least, our little man turned five in style with a Pirate Party, aaaargh!

October-The start of my favorite time of year, fall! We had soccer times two, and Halloween parties galore. Family pictures minus Ryan, and some news. This is the first season of soccer that Ryan hasn't coached any of the kids. The twins ended up on a fabulous team, and although we don't keep score, they won 7 out of 8 games, and had 3 shut-outs. The teamed scored 76 goals, and only allowed 17. It was so much fun to see them learn positions, and to play as a team! Ashden played kindersoccer, which was a slow go at the beginning, but he really excelled at the end. The first few games were more running than actually playing, but once he kicked the ball and scored his first goal, he was hooked! Halloween is one of my favorite holidays, so we had to throw a Joy School party, and an after-school party, plus the school class party and carnival, the trunk or treat, and then the actual Halloween. Despite all of that fun, we found out that Ryan has an additional three months of training, and instead of coming home at the end of January, he won't be home until the end of April.

Little Kid Party, Mummy Wrap!

Big Kid Party

Trick or Treating at the Neighbors

There you go, my life in a nutshell, someday I will blog each event in detail, so my kids have proof that life still goes on, even when daddy is gone. So what will the next six months have instore for us? Only time can tell. Things I have learned: I am stronger than most, I have the most amazing kids, I can get through anything with my husband by my side, and a true friend sees the sadness behind the smile. The Lord will bless me in His time, and I have faith that He will, until then I will continue on, or as I like to tell my children, 'suck it up soldier'!

My very own Mastercard commercial

2010-07-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Round Trip ticket to South Carolina, $600 dollars.

Three nights in a decent hotel $346.

Economy sized rental car $129.

Twenty hours with my husband, Priceless!!

***************UPDATE***************

I will treasure the memories from this trip as long as I live. I have always been proud to be an American, and still and always will cry at the playing of the national anthem, or the saying of the pledge of allegience, but seeing your husband take an oath to his country, will forever be burned in my memory.

I am grateful for all the military families who everyday make sacrifices that most of us could not imagine, or comprehend. We don't know what the road ahead awaits for us, but I do know now more than ever, that with this man by my side, I can do anything.

Track and Field Challenge!

2010-06-14T17:33:00.000-07:00

The boys had so much fun being involved in this years District wide Track and Field Challenge. They each selected the events they wanted to do, and then they performed like champs! Aiden did the Frisbee Throw, Softball Throw, Long Jump, and the 50 yard dash. Anden did the Frisbee and Softball Throw, as well as the 50 and 200 yard dash. It was so much fun to see all of their friends out there and to cheer them all on. Aiden won third place in the Frisbee throw for his age group and Anden won 1st place for the 200 yard dash! We are so proud of both of our little athlete's. Way to go!!

Anden doing the softball throw, thanks for wearing one blue sock so I can tell who is who in all of the pics!

Anden running his little heart out to take 1st in the 200 yeard dash!

Aiden finishing his 'big' jump on the long jump!

Aiden running to the finish, during his dash. The boys decided to wear their soccer shoes because according to them they run super fast in them!!

Dress Up

2010-06-02T21:29:00.000-07:00

Ashden came out of our bedroom tonight dressed like this! I just had to laugh, and then all of the kids wanted in on the fun. They raided Ryan's freshly cleaned and organized closet for a bunch of his clothes. I snapped a few pictures that I thought Ryan would enjoy. You don't realize how big he really is until the boys tried to put on his clothes, it made for a fun night!

All in all we are adjusting quite well to the absence of daddy. I say that on day two, and still being able to talk a few times a day. I will have to post again next week, once the reality of his eight months of training has sunk in. For now, he is on a bus with hundreds of others, headed to South Carolina from Atlanta. He has already made a friend who is 'old' too, and is headed to Arizona with him after his training in S.C. I think he was pleasantly surprised at how many over thirty men there were, he won't be the only old guy after all!

As you can see, Adeline preferred to just play dress up with mommy's shoes!

*******************************Update*********************************

This is how I found Ashden asleep, what you can't see is that under the pants are underwear and socks pulled all the way up his leg. That boy is going to miss his daddy a ton.

Celery Science

2010-05-23T22:33:00.000-07:00

My boys were super excited to be involved with the science fair this year. Me, not so much. Knowing that they are in Kindergarten, and there writing skills are limited to 3 and 4 letter words, I would be doing most of the work. We googled different science project ideas suitable for their age, and decided on a classic from my childhood, celery and food coloring. The boys had a fabulous time 'doing' the experiment, and learning about hypothesis, and the process of osmosis. We charted for three days, taking pictures, and learning about plants and how they use their roots to 'suck' (their words, not mine) water up to the top, and then I spent the night putting together the display board.

The fair was for one hour on a Thursday night, and we had fun going as a family to see all of the other creative and scientific experiments on display. We were impressed with the level and sophistication of some of the projects, and very ambitious parents! Lots of volcano's, which are always a crowd pleaser, some fun fizzy drinks, electricity, gak, and the answer to the age old question, which diapers hold the most liquid. All in all, a very enjoyable evening.

Next year is the art fair, which I am sure the boys will be able to handle all on their own.

Art in Bloom

2010-05-09T20:55:00.000-07:00

Every Mother's Day weekend they have the 'Art in Bloom' celebration in downtown Medford. We have gone every year. It is a little festival celebrating local artists of every kind, especially those that make things for your garden or yard. They close down the streets and vendors set up their goods. It only takes about an hour out of your day, but my kids really enjoy it, especially the shaved ice!

They have a great little kids area, where all of the crafts are cute little gifts you can give to your Mom for Mothers Day, and are themed around nature, flowers and plants. They always have a flower you can plant, and then an assortment of cardmaking station. This year you could make artwork with stamps, and a cute little tissue paper flower. They have a big mural that the kids love to help paint. If you have never been, put it on your calendar for next year, or better yet, send your husband with the kids, and he can have Mother's Day all taken care of!

Oh how I wish we had a big backyard with giant mature trees to hang that hammick from! I hope all of you had a fabulous Mother's Day, my husband surprised me with breakfast in bed, and a beautiful bouqet of flowers. He made my all time favorite Eggs Benedict, complete with Hollandaise with tarragon, who knew he had that in him, maybe he called my brother for advice!! He even took care of my mom too! I sure love that guy, and am going to miss him and his cooking skills for the next eight months.

I was reminded (by a friend) that I also got this awesome 6 qt kitchenaid for Mother's Day, as well as all of the above cards and flowers, my family sure is good to me!

My own little Imelda Marcos!

2010-04-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

My little Adeline has a shoe fetish, I mean crazy, shoe fetish. She is obsessed with changing her shoes a gazillion times a day. She has about 25 pairs, thanks in part to a few friends and their hand me downs. A good majority of them don't fit, they are either too big or too small, but that doesn't bother her! She has been known to try on other kids shoes while we are out playing, and her favorite section at Target is, that's right, the shoe section. She loves to 'click, click, click' on the hardwoods, with mommy's church shoes (ie, heels). So it came as no surprise to me this morning, when after eating her Gogurts, she fashioned them into a homemade pair of 'shoes' and was so impressed with her self, that she could not stop giggling! I just love that girl!

OK, seriously no joke, she just came out of my room, wearing none other than my knee high black boots, boy am I in trouble!

Tomorrow Land

2010-04-12T20:48:00.000-07:00

Day One

(Adeline was in the stroller)

In order to save my sanity (curse you blogspot, it takes forever to load pics), and to give you an organized walk through of the parks, I will go by lands. I don't have pictures of everything, because taking pictures just gets in the way of having fun, so I had to take them sparingly!! OK, actually, I have a ton of pictures of the first few hours we were there, and then, the camera just got in the way!

Tomorrow Land

First ride-Astro Orbitor

Aiden was a little apprehensive and didn't ride with the other boys, but instead met Buzz, and got his autograph. This is a huge part of our Disneyland experience, buying an autograph book and hunting down the characters! I meanwhile ran to the 'fastpass' booth, for tickets to Autopia!

This was one of the displays in the long 'holding' area you wind through while waiting to ride Buzz Lightyears Astro Blasters, this was one of the boys most favorite rides in D-land. One night while my mom and I were with the boys till midnight, (we stayed each night with the twins until closing, while Ryan took the younger two back to the hotel) we rode this about four times in a row, no lines!!!!!

This is an interactive ride, the car turns in all directions while you shoot at Zurg and other targets, so much fun!

Here is Zurg, you can see the square targets, you aim your laser at those and shoot, at the end it shows you your score, and takes your picture, which you can then email to yourself!

Autopia

Aiden behind the wheel, watch out!! This was another of the boys favorite rides, we rode this one a few times at night also!

That's Granny with Anden behind the wheel!

Finding Nemo Voyage, with the Matterhorn in the background. This had one of the longest waits, and there is no fast pass, but we all agreed, it was well worth it!

The boys enjoying their underground voyage!
If you are claustrophobic in any way, you will not enjoy this ride.

This little gem is Space Mountain, and this is me taking a picture of the picture it takes of you riding the ride. As you can see from the picture, the twins are in the front row, and yes that is me holding onto the back of their shirts. About two seconds after we loaded, I remembered something my friends daughter told me about riding this ride, she said, "I slid so much in my seat that my dad had to hold onto me". So in a panic, thinking holy you know what, my kids are smaller than her, I better reach over the back of the seat and hold onto them for dear life. All of the other riders really got a kick out of this picture as we unloaded! Needless to say Anden rode the whole way with his head tucked down and his eyes closed, and behind me is Ryan with Ashden. He was in such shock after the ride ended that it took until we unloaded and were walking away for the tears to start. The other boys just walked in silence. Maybe we should have saved that ride for a future visit!!

Anden & Aiden with Master Yoda, after riding Star Tours!

So there you have it, Tomorrowland in a nutshell!

Next up, a park favorite, Fantasyland!

Disney Top Ten

2010-03-30T22:31:00.000-07:00

I am almost done editing all of the pictures we took at Disneyland, but I just couldn't wait to post a few thoughts!

First of all, it really is the Happiest Place on Earth! I have such fond memories of going there as a child, and I just couldn't wait to share all of that joy with my kids. I will confess that I cried as we walk into the park, cried at every parade, cried watching the fireworks, and shed a few tears with Anden as we left the park for the last time. We really felt blessed to have had this opportunity! Here are the top ten reasons why everyone needs a little Disney in their life, and can use it as a basis to live by.

1. It is seriously the cleanest place. They have an entire staff decked out in white outfits and green gloves, sweeping, and wiping every nook and cranny. Ashden dropped a little cotton candy right before the parade started, and out of no where a lady arrived to pick it up with a napkin. Can't have Tinkerbell flittering her fairy dust on a dirty parade route!

2. Every, and I mean every ride is themed, with coordinated outfits, and theatrical music. A visiual masterpiece for me. If I had it my way, my kids would be color coordinated and music would play at appropriate times throughout the day. Each bathroom in the various 'lands' is also coordinated to match the area it is in....heaven!!

3. On that same note, each 'castmember' never breaks character. If you are riding Soaring over California, you are referred to as 'Passangers', on Buzz Lightyear, you are Astro Blasters, (this way Astro Blaster, or exit here Astro Blaster). And no matter how many times they have to tell you the same thing, over and over and over, they do it with a smile, and a gentle wave of the arm.

4. They know how to throw a good parade, and three of them to be exact! Audience participation, bubbles coming out of the sky, confetti at the end, and music to shake a tail feather to.

5. They end each night with fireworks, all color coordinated to give you a virtual tour of disneyland through music and fireworks. Genious!

6. Only at Disneyland can you lose a $1200 camera, and have it returned in an hour, but lose a $20 hoodie on the bus back to the hotel and it was never to be found again.

7. If your kid is crying, or having a fun induced meltdown, 'castmembers' will stop at nothing to make him or her happy again. No one wants to see a sad kid as Disneyland.

8. I'll be honest, I have seen better props at our ward Christmas parties, but It's a Small World is still a crowd pleaser, I know it had an overhaul a few years back, but most of it is still the old cardboard cutouts of dolls, hand painted by an amatuer, and still I love it, and rode it twice while we where there (and cried watching Adeline dance to the dolls, bobbing her head back and forth, with the biggest grin she has ever had).

9. Speaking of 'It's a Small World'. We drove over 700 miles south, and almost everyone we met was from Oregon, one man was even from Medford, with two sons that live blocks from us. At our hotel, we ran into the lady from our local kids museum.....strange. And the one person we met not from Oregon, lived in the town Ryan grew up in Colorado. It really is a small world afterall.

10. And my final reason why I get giddy over the big mouse with ears is, if you take a little from each category, you have a pretty dang good life. A clean home, music all day long, fireworks to end each day, never raising your voice at crazy kids, color coordinated outfits (ok, maybe that one is just for me), honesty, the realization that it is a small world, and that we are all connected one way or another, and that having fun as a family is the most important of all, whether at the park or at home!!

Thank you Walt Disney, Thank You!!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2010-03-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

So, we love St. Patrick's Day in our household, so much that the boys were all up at 3:00am wondering if the Leprechauns had come yet! You would have thought it was Christmas, I mean who gets that excited for some gold coin candy, and a green breakfast?? I promptly sent them back to bed, and reminded Anden, that he had a dentist appointment at 7:30, that took the wind out of his sail!

When they woke-up, at a more reasonable hour, this is what they saw! I made these adorable shirts for the kids, thanks in part to my friend Tee, and to Christine, who helped me out with the sewing machine! I thought they turned out cute, and now I can mark that off my list....home-made holiday shirts, check!

After a great visit to the dentist (notice Anden with the half smile in all of the pictures), we had green eggs and pancakes, and even green apple juice? How do the Leprechauns turn all of that green??? Inquiring minds want to know!

Finished the day off with a fantastic cupcake, and this March 17th was one to remember! Now go check on your corn beef and cabbage, and throw back some green beer, rootbeer that is!

Howdy Partner.....a little late!

2010-03-10T21:55:00.000-08:00

So I am finally blogging about the boys birthday, I never blogged about their Pirate Party last year, so a few months late this year doesn't seem so bad!

The boys wanted a Cowboy themed party, what fun!! I found these fabulous foam hats at the dollar store, along with badges and cowboy 'army' men! Too bad their birthday is in winter, because I would have loved to have had pony rides too!

Birthday parties are alot of work, but it all makes up for it the day it finally arrives, and I see how excited the kids are to have a day devoted just to them! My mom always made our birthdays super special, I remember a rainbow themed party I had one year (probably because of Rainbow Brite, I also had a Care Bear party one year too!), we made these cute little styrofoam rainbows with different colored yarn. I hope I am creating those same memories for my little guys and gal!

Pinata Fun

Hot Dogs, Chips & Rootbeer in a bottle! Yee-haw!

Birthday Wishes

What will next year bring? I better start planning now!

Time Out

2010-02-25T21:38:00.000-08:00

So I came across this picture the other day, and I just had to laugh out loud! Ashden had convinced his brothers to duct tape him to a chair, they thought this was a great idea, and who was I to stop them? I mean an hour of peace and quiet with one of them taped to a chair, heaven!!

Good times at the Holley household. Next time you may see this same picture with a not so willing participant!!

Should I be worried??

2010-02-17T23:21:00.000-08:00

This is what I woke up to the other morning!! Ashden had painted his nails red, and he did a rather good job, not even a drop on the table! I had painted my nails red last week for Valentines Day and he just wanted in on the fun!

I also caught this little cutie in my purse! She is always getting into my make-up, she just loves putting on 'lippy'! These two munchkins just make me smile!

Cupcakes for a cure...

2010-02-12T10:20:00.000-08:00

I know, the title is a big deceiving, we aren't raising money or finding a cure for cancer, or bringing about world peace, but for us, this is our outlet! So check it out, the first creation starts next Tuesday! I am super excited, and if you haven't already, go check out Martha's cupcake book! Check out our blog here!

New Year's Resolutions (a month late)!

2010-02-07T22:24:00.000-08:00

So it seems that in my busy and hectic life, that I can't even find time to fit in my new years resolutions on time! I had this great brain child to help fill our 'no school' Mondays! I thought it would be fun to study the 50 states. Starting in Alphabetical order, one each week. I bought the map, hung it in the playroom, borrowed Alaska stuff from a friend, googled Alabama. I was ready. We would make a fun treat from each state to eat for family night, learn fun facts, and dream about the things we would do if we ever went to visit that location, and now it is the second week in February and here I sit, stateless.

I also had made a pack with my friend Tee to stop complaining, she even bought the book, and read it! She so graciously printed me off the '20 tips for a Positive New Year', and I was excited to 1. Stay Positive, and 2. Read more books, or 3. Learn from past mistakes, you get the idea. And then life happens, and you lose your way two days (ok, one day) into your life changing ways. You see, the last year was a hard year for me personally, my life hasn't really played out the way I envisioned, and I think it finally sunk in, that the road was going to be much longer than expected, and here I sit trying to stay positive, and see life as a serious of events that are there to teach you something, to learn and to grow. I realized that I was spending a lot of energy on insignifacant things and activities because I needed friendships more than they needed mine.

So my resolve is to stay postive, and to fill my days with people and activites that enrich my life, as well as the lives of my husband and children. To continue to serve, at home, and in the community. To raise children that are respectful and understand the importance of hard work and integrity. To finally lose that last 10 pounds (I know, it really is more like 15, but who am I kidding, 10 is much more realistic), and to apply to graduate school. My life is significant, and I have a lot to offer the world, I just need to stop having a pity party for myself and 'just do it' already! So bring it on 2010, I can take whatever you have to offer, the good, the bad, and the oh so ugly!

Oh, and stay tuned for my cupcake blog, because the world is a much better place with delectable cupcakes in it! Thanks Martha!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice-box Cake

2010-01-25T21:25:00.000-08:00

So today for Family Night I made this heavenly dessert. It was seriously so easy to make and it tasted so amazing! I just had to share. It is from Martha Stewart Everyday Food Magazine, which is my all-time go to mag for recipe ideas!!

2 cups heavy cream, well chilled
1/3 cup confectioners' sugar
1/3 cup smooth natural peanut butter (not unsalted)
1 box (9 ounces) chocolate wafer cookies

Directions

In a large bowl, whip 1 1/2 cups cream with sugar until soft peaks form. In a small bowl, whisk peanut butter until soft and smooth; whisk in 1/2 cup cream until light and fluffy. Fold peanut-butter mixture into whipped cream until incorporated.
Dab the bottom of 6 cookies with a very small amount of cream mixture and arrange in a circle on a serving plate; place 1 cookie in the middle of circle. Top with cup cream mixture, spreading outward to cover all but outer edges of cookies. Repeat process five more times (staggering the cookie layers), ending with cream. Cut 3 cookies in half; decorate top of cake with cookie halves.
Refrigerate cake at least 8 hours (or up to overnight). To serve, cut into wedges with a serrated knife.

I refrigerated mine for about 6 hours, and then put it in the freezer about an hour before I served it! Enjoy!!

College for Crazies

2010-01-21T21:41:00.001-08:00

Last month the boys school had a college bound day, they were encouraged to wear something from their favorite school. So it turned out to be a 'wear your parents alma mater day' and all of our kids dressed in BYU blue! Although BYU is a fantastic school, I don't want to claim that as my own. I attended the more 'prestigious'(not) Southern Oregon University or SOSC (southern oregon state college, in my day)!

Could they be any cuter??
(and yes, I did talk to my boys about the weird camera face, what does that represent?)

On a side note, the boys came home the other day saying 'ducks rule, beavers drool', I am so glad they are learning important life lessons at school! If I had to choose an Oregon team, my vote is for the Beavers, because their colors are orange and black, and we all know how much I love Halloween!

How Sweet is Six?

2010-01-08T22:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the twins turned six!! I sure do love those little guys. They never cease to amaze me with their wit, they are a comedic duo those two. We are sure in for a crazy ride when they get older! They are so inquisitive, and have a zest for learning. They are kind, and think of others, and love to help around the house. Aiden learned to load the dishwasher just this week! They are so imaginative, and come up with the funnest home-made games. Life just wouldn't be the same without them. We are blessed to be their parents, and look forward to the many years of wonderful memories we will create. Happy Birthday to the two most handsome twins I have ever seen!!

Too Cool

Anden didn't break his model pose the whole time, we were cracking up!

Anden

Aiden

Aiden

Anden

Brothers for life

My favorite photo of all time.

Roaming Santa

2010-01-06T22:38:00.000-08:00

We loved finding this jolly old fella on our door step this season. Kudos to whoevers brainchild this was! The kids were so excited, they wanted to keep him forever, and who could resist a three foot tall plastic Santa?? After I read the corresponding note, and took some memorable pictures, Ashden literally picked him up and ran him over to our new neighbors house. I am sure they were more than thrilled with this housewarming gift. However, after five straight nights of Santa not moving an inch from their porch, we had to take matters into our own hands, and send Santa on his way. So Ashden swept him away and we descended upon another unsuspecting household. I pity the family that gets to store him until next year!! Enjoy.

Here is Ashden ready to run!

Happy Holley-Days and a New Year too!

2009-12-30T12:20:00.000-08:00

I just can't seem to get that last batch of Christmas cards out! I ran out of stamps, and haven't had time to go and get more, so if you haven't received your card yet, maybe you will get it sometime next year! Here is a glimpse of what you missed! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends. This year was such a magical one for us. We feel so blessed and loved. Thanks to all of you who sent cards to us, it was a record year. I love to hang on to them from year to year to see how much everyone has changed.

Merry Christmas

Ryan-Continues to excel in college, and is on-track to graduate in Fall of 2011. He enlisted in the National Guard and is set for boot camp this coming spring! We are so proud of his decision to serve our country.
Kari-Enjoys the triumphs and trials the children bring, and knows that these precious moments are fading way to fast. She enjoys her time volunteering at school and church, and is thankful for the blessings she receives.
Aiden & Anden-Started Kindergarten this fall and are doing fantastic, thanks in part to wonderful teachers and staff! Their little eyes just sparkle with delight each time they learn something new. Aiden wants to be a scientist, and Anden wants to be the guy who pays for everything! I’ll let you know as soon as we find out what that might be!!
Ashden-He is my little Jekyll & Hyde. One minute he is just the sweetest thing on the face of the earth, and the next, he has started the microwave on fire!! He will certainly give us a run for our money, or spend all of it on repairs!!
Adeline-Has turned into quite the little lady! Her vocabulary grows every day, and her favorite word is ‘baby‘. She is Miss Sassy Pants, and knows that she has all of her brothers (and Daddy) wrapped around her little finger!!

You can check out all the latest and greatest moments of our lives at www.thejollyholleys.blogspot.com! We hope this card finds you healthy and happy, and full of joy for what 2010 will bring. Please keep us in your prayers, as we keep you in ours.

Love, The Holley's

Ashland Extravaganza

2009-12-21T21:51:00.000-08:00

This parade kicks off our Christmas season each year. It is always the Friday after Thanksgiving, and we haven't missed one since the boys were born! Parking is crazy, it is freezing cold, and the line to see Santa is about an hour long, but in the end, it is so worth it. The parade is super short, I think there were only about 14 entries, but they pass out good candy, they always give away books, Starbucks gives out free hot chocolate down at the plaza, and Santa is good for a few candy canes, so there is plenty of fun to go around. We love it and we hope you will too!

Waiting for the parade to start!

Gingerbread man from The Nutcracker.

Carolers
(These ladies also did the "Ten Virgins" for our church this past spring)

Cutest Snowmen ever!

The kids thought this guy was so funny, and can't wait to make a snowman so they can put a ton of carrots on his head!!

Jolly Old St. Nick!!!

(This picture is courtesy of the Mail Tribune, but it just shows you the sheer number of people that end up at the plaza to watch the lights turn on in Ashland!)

A Reason for the Season

2009-12-13T14:45:00.000-08:00

Before I start with my annual montage of Holley-Day Hodge Podge, let me share my favorite Christmas song, along with a fabulous video I got off of You Tube last year. (Pause my playlist to enjoy the music with the video).

.Happy Thanksgiving.

2009-11-24T21:36:00.000-08:00

This year I have much to be Thankful for, but I am going to limit it to one thing: my husband! I am thankful that he gets me and still loves me for it!

Since I have mastered the savory part of Thanksgiving, ie; turkey, stuffing, sauce, gravy, potatoes, etc. I have moved on to desserts! This year I am taking on two new ones, a Triple Chocolate Pumpkin Pie from Martha Stewart and a Cranberry Ribbon Apple Pie from Bon Appetite, if they are a hit I will post recipes, if not, I will post the aftermath. I do have two back up pies thanks to an awesome deal at Albertsons last week, so we will not starve!

Here's hoping your Thanksgiving is richly blessed with family and love, and of course, good eats!!

Update: Enjoy a few of our Thanksgiving photos!!

Here is a picture of our 25 pound Turkey, he was so delicious!!

We made these cute luminaries to decorate our walkway!

My first apple pie, it was so scrumptious, and super easy, why have I never made one before!!

Worth a Thousand Words

2009-09-22T22:05:00.000-07:00

This summer was the first time all of my siblings and their families were together. What an amazing time we shared. We couldn't let this moment pass us by without getting some family photos, and I wanted to post a few here. Mostly because I think my family is dang cute, but also because we have the most fabulous photographer of all time! I love how she can capture the essence of my children in a photo, what a gift. If you are in need of a great photo shoot, give her a call, her name is Jolyn 541.601.6379 or check her out at her new site http://www.daveeblu.com/! Good luck on your new adventures girl, you deserve much happiness!!

The real A Team

(Anden, Ashden, Austin, Alek, Andrew, Aiden, Annika, Adeline & Alyssa)

I love, love this picture.

Four crazy siblings, and the loves of our lives!

Bonded for Life

Sorry the images are so small, but I pirated them off of Facebook, so you get what you get!

First Day of School

2009-09-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday was the twins first day of Kindergarten. What a proud moment in a parents life. I don't know who was more excited, me or them! We had a back to school party the night before, with a special dinner and dessert. We made special banners and decorations to commemorate this once in a lifetime event. The boys weren't really sure about all of the fuss I was making over school, so I am not sure if the party was more for me or them. We ended the night by reading the school handbook, and then Ryan gave the boys a Father's blessing. I am thankful for that gift he is able to give the boys. I hope they realize how much we love them and are excited for this new journey in their lives.

They were not excited about the picture taking, enough already Mom!!

The boys wanted to ride the bus on the first day, but I put my foot down, I needed pictures in front of the school, and I couldn't just let them go that easily. They did ask me on the way to school to please not cry in front of their friends, so I saved the tears for the car ride home. I did get a little misty eyed, but my super huge sunglasses hid any signs of the waterworks. I wasn't sad to send them off, I am just so proud of the little men they are, and I know that they will have a fantastic year ahead of them. I promised the teacher that I wouldn't dress them alike on the first day of school, which I am sure she was grateful for. Although, I am impressed that both Mrs. Bjorge and Mrs. Lewis can tell them apart, high five ladies, we are excited to share this journey with you both.

I am looking forward to my first PTO meeting and volunteer training this week, maybe I need to go out and buy myself some back to school outfits too!

Why I Love This Man of Mine...

2009-06-20T15:26:00.001-07:00

In honor of Father's Day, I thought I should post something about my main man. Ryan doesn't get much blog time, it is mostly about the kids, so here is his little piece of the puzzle.

Ryan is first and foremost a wonderful father and husband. He enjoys being a dad and loves spending time with his children. The boys cherish their 'daddy nights' which consists of watching movies and eating snacks late late at night, after everyone else has gone to bed. He coaches their sports teams, and teaches them all kinds of crazy games he makes up using random household objects and toys. The boys think their dad can walk on water, and that he can do no wrong. He is definitely not the disciplinarian. He is the fun dad, and I am the boring rule abiding mom. I guess that is whats keeps us in balance.

Coach Ryan -2009

Ryan being very inventive in his sled making- 2007

Riding the Bull -2009

Ryan rockin' out with Ashden - 2006

Ready for drug raids - 2007

Ryan is also a wonderful husband. He is very thoughtful. When we first started dating he would buy me flowers and write me little poems. Some were the cheesy I love you stuff, but others were very funny. On my first mothers day, he dressed the twins up really cute and had their pictures taken. The next year he sent me on a shopping spree. The year after that he and the kids made me GIANT homemade cards with hand prints and a cute poem that he made up and took pictures to coincide with the words. This year he took all the kids in the garage and they each painted me a homemade card, and even after five mothers days and me telling him each time that Mommy is spelled M-O-M-M-Y, he still spells it M-O-M-Y, and Daddy D-A-D-Y. Whenever we give each other cards or gifts he always writes, To my wife, love your husband. I think it is the little things that I love about him the most. He has such persistency and never gives up. He is always willing to try new things, and he forever feels like he is 21. I guess that is a good thing considering he is now back in college at age 36. He is a hard worker, and very determined, he isn't easily discouraged, and tries to look at the positive. I love that he doesn't care what other people think, (most of the time), and that he wears socks with his sandals. Every night without fail he has to have a fourth meal, which he justifies by telling me that he never really eats both breakfast and lunch.

Graduation - 2007

Once you get to know him, Ryan is very funny, partly due to his one liners, and partly to the fact that the man is the klutziest person I have ever met. Seriously, he is one giant accident waiting to happen, and the worst part is that he doesn't realize it! Following are the pictures resulting from one of his 'accidents'. He needed to get something on the top shelf in our closet, and thinking that a plastic laundry basket could hold all 240 pounds of him he turned it over and tried to step on top of it. Obviously it did not work and he fell through the basket knocking him and all of the clothes in that basket as well as the other baskets on the floor. I hear this yelling from our closet and I come running in to find this.......

Ryan definately keeps life interesting and entertaining.

Ryan has a soft side too. He doesn't like to admit it, but he is a crier. A quiet crier, but still a crier, especially when it comes to the kids. He cried after reading the blog I did about the twins turning five. He cries when they get really sick, or when Ashden had to have his two surgeries.

I am proud of his commitment to the Lord, and for his decision to be baptized last year. I have seen such a difference in him, and I know that as he continues to rely on the Lord for guidance and strength he will become an even better husband and father. I hope all who are reading this will think of the strengths your own spouse has, and remember that we really are better as one, and that each of us brings something unique to our marriages and families, and I am thankful for the role that Ryan plays in my life.

Baptism Day - 2008

Happy fathers day husband, I sure do love and appreciate all you do for us! . . .

Ashden wanting to be just like Daddy - 2009

Say Goodbye to Training Wheels

2009-06-18T22:33:00.001-07:00

Today the twins learned to ride their bikes like the big boys! What a proud moment as a mom. They probably could have done it months ago, but why do today what you can procrastinate for the future?! So, after months of begging, Ryan and I finally took the wheels off and we headed over to the field to embark on the next step of childhood, riding a bike. Now they are officially apart of the old cliche, 'it's just like riding a bike'.

I have to say, I did cry a bit, and not for the obvious oh they are growing up and they are no longer little boys, but because they were so determined and wouldn't give up. They didn't get discouraged or upset when they fell down, but instead just got back up and grabbed the horse by the reins. I was so proud of them, I hope they always have that dedication, and aren't easily discouraged when things get tough. They were so proud of one another, and were determined to go at it together. Anden figured it out first, but only by about 20 minutes. He was so concerned about Aiden, and kept saying things like, 'Mom, Aiden will get it, and 'Aiden keep going buddy you can do it'. And Aiden, after seeing Anden ride around the track by himself, yelled at the top of his lungs to all who could hear, 'Anden, you're doing it', (as if he didn't realize that himself!). So watch out Twin Creek walkers, they didn't name the park after you, so get out of their way already, because they probably will plow you over once or twice before they learn to maneuver around you!

Good job Bro Bro's, we are so proud of you!

Hot Dog Anyone?

2009-05-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

Meet the latest addition to our household....the little Pumpkin Eater!! Isn't she just down right adorable. She isn't actually ours, but my Mom's little wiener dog, or daschund for those who are more politically correct than I. We get all the fun of having a dog, but not much responsibility. She spends the weekdays down in Yreka with Granny, and comes home on the weekends. The kids just adore her, as you can see in the pictures. It has however caused many fights over who gets her first when Granny comes home, and she is the first thing anyone goes for when they wake up in the morning. Ashy carries her around like a little rag doll, and Adeline just tries not to choke her! She really is so much fun, and the kids love when Granny has to leave her to go out of town, they get 'paid' to babysit pup while she is gone. They love the responsibility, and I love that they are learning to take care of someone else.

I don't know who loves her more, me or the dog!

Just a boy and his dog!

He wanted everyone to see how long this 'hot dog' really is!!

got Park?

2009-04-24T16:47:00.000-07:00

This is what four hours at the park will do to your children! Too bad my littlest runt took her nap at the park or I would have had a blissful afternoon. Oh well, three out of four ain't bad!!

Aiden

Anden (top)

Ashden

They took all of the pillows off of the couch, and then stripped down all the beds, and if you look close enough, you can see the twins with their giant Teddy Bears, and the spiderman looking thing next to Ashy is his Build-a-Bear! Too Cute!!

Me & XIV.....finally!

2009-02-27T21:58:00.000-08:00

Here we go, our fabulous fun filled three day weekend in Hollywood. We started the trip with a whirlwind night at my brothers restaurant XIV, it was so much fun I can't even describe it. Hopefully you have read my previous posts and know a little of the background of my brother and the restaurant. Suffice it to say, it totally lived up to all of my expectations and then some. Our dinner reservation was for 7:30, and we didn't leave until almost 1:00am. During that time, the following people were also enjoying dinner at XIV. The Prince of Saudi Arabia, (who pretty much trumped any other 'star' that wanted to come that evening, because his entourage and security detail is so large). The King had been in the night before, and so the Prince just had t come and check it out too! The CEO of Sony records and the President of CBS or NBC I can't remember now, and a big wig from Disney, who hopefully my brother can get to comp us into Disneyland! Also the band Fall Out Boy, and a couple of Lakers players, and their ladies!! A few Bangle football players were also there, and the lady who played the Mom on 7th Heaven for 11 seasons was there celebrating her daughters birthday. They sat right by us, and kept looking back to see who we were, we were seated at the VIP table, (yes, we not the Prince got the VIP table) so people were wondering who we were, because obviously we didn't look famous, but the chef kept coming and sitting with us and we had like five waiters attending to our every need, so people kept asking the staff who we were!! I think that is the closest thing I will ever get to fame.

Here is the photo recap so enjoy the montage!!

Here we are on the roof of our hotel, before we left. They had a pool and all of these little cabana's, it was very cool. We wanted to come up and skinny dip after we ate, but the pool closes at 1:00am, and we didn't get home until 1:30.

My Mom and I before we sat down to eat, I think I am part Amazon, because seriously could I look any bigger, it's like Mutt & Jeff.

Here is the Naan bread they serve first as you sit down, it is a nod to Michael Mina's native India. It was so yummy I seriously ordered seconds, it came with this yogurt dill, feta sauce that I licked off of the plate. You can't order this, it is not on the menu, but everyone gets it as soon as they sit down.

Our first of 14 courses, Michael's Caviar Parfait.

Ahi Tuna Tartare: Ancho Chile, Pears, Mint, Pine Nuts, Sesame Oil

Heirloom Beets: Burrata, Wild Arugula, Aged Balsamic, New Olive Oil

One of our favorites.

Chilled Maine Lobster: Potatoes, Celery, Chestnuts, Truffle

(note the additional Naan bread, I just couldn't get enough of it)

Dungeness Crab Crepe: Basil, Capers, Scampi Hollandaise

This was our absolute favorite, there is a thin Meyer Lemon sauce on the bottom that was in every bite, so yummy!

Nantucket Bay Scallops Tempura: Cauliflower, Passion Fruit, Almonds

Pumpkin Dumplings: Stewed Cherries, Brown Butter, Sage

To die for!

Jidori Chicken: Truffled Mac & Cheese, Caramelized Onion Sauce.

This puts Kraft to shame!

Crispy Pork Belly: Pea Leaves, Orange, Salted Cashew

(pork belly is like a fancy Bacon)

Braised Rabbit: Fresh Ricotta Cavatelli, Parsnip, Truffle Jus

(the ricotta cavatelli is like gnocchi, but so much better)

Japanese A5 Kobe Beef: Chanterelles, Haricots Verts

(so delightful, you could cut the meat with a fork, literally melts in your mouth)

Worcestershire-Braised Short Ribs: Celery Root Puree, Glazed Mirepoix

Loved, Loved, Loved!

Chaource: Rambutan, Guava, White Ale

Cameo by the Chef

(this is a soft cheese)

Idiazabal: Dates, Smoked Bacon Powder, PX

(this is a hard cheese)

"The Cake"
The whole gang.

Have you ever seen anything like it before, I can't even describe it's yumminous, it was so unbelievably delicious, I could have just died.

Where all the magic begins, Steve working hard making sure each plate looks fabulous!

The view from Sunset Boulevard

The interior of the restaurant, it looks like a living room, with bookshelves and fireplaces.

The patio, and the $60,000 chandeliers!

Spices

So there you have it, our fabulous trip. To give you an idea of what it would have cost to eat there, had we not had special connections!! The 'fourteen from XIV' is $95 a person, plus an additional $25 per person for the Kobe beef, and an additional $25 per person for the Caviar, plus the $250 for the Birthday Cake, and the 5 bottles of $8 Fuji water, and the three $9 'Mormon Mocktails' our grand total would have been with tax and tip, around $985 for the three of us! Good thing my brothers the chef!

In case you do want to check it out, they do have 'A Light Meal' of 8 courses for $55 a person, or 'Something More" which is 11 courses for $75 a person. You can always order individually for $8 a course, but if you are a party of four, that is $32 per course, because everyone gets the same thing. It is like social dining, so fun and causal, like a big house party. I can't wait to go back, there are 35 items on the menu, so I still have a few more to try, and in case you are wondering, you can order "The Gamut" all 35 courses for $250 a person, so bring your appetite!

Kodak Theater, where the Oscars are held.

Steve and Sophia on the steps of the Kodak Theater, where all the stars walk for the Oscars. She is so beautiful I wanted to vomit, and her English accent is just adorable. She is just as nice as she is cute, and they make a perfect match. We love you Sophia, welcome to the family!

XIV Preview

2009-02-08T22:58:00.000-08:00

OK, so here is just a little taste of my fabulous trip to LA. In case you have been living in a cave, or haven't been within ear shot of me lately, here is a quick update. My Mom and I flew to LA in January for a belated 60th Birthday Bash, and met up with my sister Sheri. We stayed in a super swanky boutique hotel, and ate at my brothers most amazing restaurant XIV, which by the way is hosting the Sony Music Grammy after party bash tonight, as I type. So jealous! Here are just a few pictures to wet your appetite! Enjoy!

The lobby of our hotel, before the Chauffer picked us up, oh yeah, we showed up in style!

One of our favorite dishes, Heirloom Beets with Burrata, Wild Arugula, Aged Balsamic, New Olive Oil. So Yummy!

This was our first dish, after the traditional Nan Bread was served (which I will go into detail about in my longer, more elaborate post) Michael's Caviar Parfait. I could have died it was so tasty!

This is us, after consuming 14 courses, that yes indeed, I ate without any need to adjust the button on my pants. Oh and that chocolate concoction sitting in front of my mother, was her custom made birthday cake, that seriously was so good, words can't describe it, well they can, but this isn't the forum, and for those of you that have gone to Morning Glory with me, you know what I am talking about! I will post pictures of the inside, it had five layers of chocolate bliss, all infused with a different flower, like lavendar and elderberry, it was so delightful! So there you have it, a taste of things to come, this was such a once in a lifetime trip. Jen, we really missed you, and hope we can make this an annual girls trip!

Fabulous at Five

2009-01-07T07:13:00.000-08:00

Today the twins are turning five! I can't hardly believe that five years ago today, I was giving birth to two little spit fires! Boy, how are lives have changed. The twins came 7 weeks early and spent the first four weeks in the NICU. They came home on 02-03-04, so we celebrate that day as well, since that is officially when they became 'ours'. I had planned on having their friend party on Saturday, but had to push it back a few weeks. So today we are having their family party, how boring!

This was their 2nd birthday, Noah's Ark, and Aiden is enjoying that cupcake!

Anden in front of the 'Ark'

Enjoying their present together, while watching TV!

I have posted some pictures of them through the years. They really are the best of friends, and have been since birth. We decided early on that we would have them together as much as possible. The first few days in the NICU, they had to be apart, but they would push the incubators together as close as they could. As soon as they put them in the same crib, they improved dramatically! We even have a picture of them sharing the same 'choo-chee' or binkie, one baby had it in their mouth, and the other scooted over and was sucking on the handle. The nurses took that picture for us, and gave it to us the next morning when we came in. They slept in the same crib and bed up until just recently, and sometimes they even still end up together, cuddled up close like they were in my belly.

Two boys in a wagon, Summer 2006

Aiden trying to kiss Anden, and him wiping it off!

They are very similar in alot of ways, but each has their own unique personality. Aiden is more emotional or sensitive, but is fast at making friends, especially with the older kids. Anden is more reserved and is a thinker. He is also very obedient. If something has a direct consequence, like not brushing your teeth will cause cavities, and not eating your dinner will make you skinny or skinnier in their case, or eating too much sweets with cause fire to come out of your bum (more on that later, but you do what you can to get your kids to obey, and threatening them with the dirty squirties always seems to work!!) he will follow through like a champ, diligently washing his hands while saying the whole alphabet to make sure all of the germs are off! They both are so sweet and protective of their other siblings, especially Sissa. They do not like it when the other gets in trouble and will even try to negotiate the others punishment.

One of my favorite pictures.

They went through a phase when they wanted to dress different because they were tired of their friends asking who was who, but then they realized that even in different outfits no one can tell them apart, so they gave that up too. Thankfully they have similar likes and dislikes, buying presents is very easy. They both love music, and can carry a tune. Aiden loves airplanes, and Anden is obsessed with the Resurrection. Whenever he or anyone else gets hurts, he simply replies 'don't worry that will be fixed when you're resurrected'. I love that they have a natural love for learning, their questions are well thought out, and they are diligent at learning their letters and numbers, without much prodding on our part.

Aiden 'being attacked' by the ABC's!
Winter 2006

Christmas 2006

They are all boy, they love sports, guns, and anything loud. They both wanted Pogo-sticks for Christmas, and when they first got on they could jump three or four times, and by the next day, we stopped counting. They wanted to learn to ride their bikes without training wheels last summer, but we were too lazy to take them off. We keep telling them to wait until spring!

I will be able to blackmail Aiden with this photo later in life!

Their 'Car's' 3rd Birthday! 2007

I could go on and on, but I am sure the only one reading this now is my Mom, so I will stop all the gushing, but I am so thankful that the Lord blessed me with Aiden and Anden. Our lives would truly not be complete without them. Each day I am constantly amazed at how sweet their spirits are, and the innocence of childhood. Stay tuned for the pictures and post about their much anticipated Pirate Pinata Party, until then, maybe I will finally get around to posting about the rest of the holiday season!!

Easter 2007

4th Birthday at the Family Fun Center. 2008

Cuddle Bugs, May 2008

Soccer Studs Fall 2008

Mia, the girl that could end this Twin Twosome!!

There you have it, some of my favorite photo's, or at least my favorite photo's that I have saved on this computer. I wish I had a scanner to scan in some earlier pics!!

.merry christmas.

2008-12-25T00:25:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours! Hopefully you're reading this after a fun filled morning of holiday cheer. I know our family has been truly blessed this year, and I feel so grateful to all of our family and friends who have made that possible. I am continually amazed at how fortunate we are to live in this little community.

Now, back to the kitchen, I have Christmas dinner to worry about, and a delightful brunch to bake. And, if you didn't receive our Christmas card, which I am sure just about everyone in the universe did, since I was able to print them for .06 each (thanks winkflash), here it is again, because I just think my kids are so freakin' adorable! Much love, and Happy Holley-days!

Holley-Day Hodge-Podge

2008-12-23T22:44:00.000-08:00

It seems as though the Holidays got the best of me, and I just haven't had time to post about all of the fun things we did this December, so seeing as how it is almost the 'night before Christmas' I thought I better catch myself up! Enjoy the pictures of our holiday traditions. This truly was such a magical season. The kids are at the perfect age, and I enjoyed every last minute with them this year.

I found the most fabulous sugar cookie recipe in our ward cookbook, so we made a batch or two, or three, and had fun decorating them too! These seriously were the tastiest sugar cookies I have ever had, so light and fluffy! The recipe made a gazillion, so we sent about 30 with my Mom to her work, and they were a HUGE hit! Yummy, Yummy, Yummy.

We saw Santa for the second time at the Kid Time Museum, this was such a fun event, and thankfully the kids are still holding strong to their Pogo Sticks and Transformers! I was a little nervous that their requests would change! (side note: Can you see the yellow headband Aiden is wearing, in both the cookie making photo, and again with Santa? They made these 'I can be Honest' headbands at church, and he seriously wore it for like three days straight! Thanks Crystal, we love you!)

We still got the same result with Adeline too! It seems as though she hasn't warmed up to the Jolly Ole' St. Nick yet! Give her time!

After their little chat with Santa, the kids all got to decorate a sugar cookie. Thanks 'playplace' for another wonderful family event!

Later that evening we attended the Medford Light Festival, and I must say, Kudos's to them for a fabulous evening. I think Medford's Christmas Extravaganza has always been in Ashland's shadow, so this year they moved it to the next weekend, and came out with a bang. The kids started off with a little coloring contest, and when you turned it in you got a cookie, and not just a cheap cookie, but a Dark Chocolate covered graham cracker cookie from Harry & David! Yeah.

The Kid Time museum was also there doing crafts. The boys enjoyed making snowman picture frames. Lithia Toyota was also taking pictures behind a winter scene, you know the kind where you stick your head through the holes, but we opted out, since there were only three holes and seven of us!!

Let is snow, let is snow, let is snow!!

The highlight of the evening was the snow machine. They rented a huge snow machine like the ones they use in Hollywood, or at the Disney Christmas Parade. After a few false starts, and trying to maneuver the machine into just the right spot, the snow came down. My boys just loved it, you can see them trying to catch the snow on their tongues and with their hands. Santa came on a giant firetruck that the kids enjoyed climbing through, and choirs of children from different High Schools sang carols. There were different vendors, and free Hot Chocolate and Cider. You could also go around and rate the different holiday window displays too!

Here we are in front of the giant Christmas tree, trying to get a good group shot, but as you can see, this is as good as it gets!! Stay tuned for Holley-Day Hodge-Podge II. Where we go sledding, visit a Victorian Christmas, board the Polar Express, and make Gingerbread Houses to boot!

Happy 60th Granny!

2008-12-18T09:46:00.000-08:00

Today is my Mom's 60th birthday, and we are celebrating! I had hoped to scan a bunch of pictures from my Mom's younger years, but just haven't been able to dig all the pictures out. Today is kindof anti-climatic, considering we are celebrating her birthday in January by flying down to LA to eat at my brothers restaurant, all four siblings will be together for the first time in almost five years, what a treat! So today, her only wish was to go sledding with the grandkids! I think we can handle that! She took the day off, and spent all of last night buying the kids new snow clothes, so today we will be on the search for the perfect snow for sledding.

I can't begin to tell you what a joy it has been to have Granny around for the kids. I feel kindof selfish, hogging her all to myself, but hey, if my other siblings want her around, they can move to Oregon too! We are so grateful to never have to get a babysitter, let alone pay for one! Granny is always willing and ready to watch the kids, no matter how short the notice or however long we may stay out! She also spoils my children rotten, she is very thoughtful in her gift giving, and takes alot, and I mean alot of time deciding the perfect gifts. She takes into account their cute little personalities, and knows their likes and dislikes. She has been such a saving grace to us over the past two years financially, she has kept us afloat, clothing my children in the cutest clothes, and providing Halloween costumes, birthday presents, and our entire Christmas! She is truly an amazing Granny. The boys always get so excited when Granny comes home after a few days in Yreka, they always ask 'Granny, did you bring us any surprises?' and Granny always responds 'I brought myself!" Too cute! So here's to a fabulous pre 60th celebration, we will go sledding, eat at Red Lobster (her favorite restaurant), open her dollar store 'treasures' my children picked out for her ie; buff puff, Q-tips, socks, & Kleenex. Remind me to not let my children pick out my presents, what's with all the practical stuff?? And maybe, just maybe, I will get those pictures out and scanned, because let me tell you, she may only be getting Kleenex from my kids on her 60th, but her 50th was a rockin' party in Las Vegas, and I have the pictures to prove it. Lets just say, my Mom got her grove on in a little Piano Bar at the New York, New York Hotel, and danced to the YMCA and Yellow Polka Dot Bikini. I didn't get my spunkiness from my Dad, all those jeans come from my Mom's side of the family! She really is a hoot that lady. We love you Granny, here's to another decade of fun!!

Granny with Adeline at Ryan's Baptism-March 2008

Granny with the twins at the train park, September 2007.

Granny, getting ready for Ashden's 2nd Birthday Party, October 2007.

My Mom and I at a family reunion in Grants Pass, Summer 2000.

Just for laughs, and a taste of things to come! This is me and my brother, I know, I laughed too, so go ahead and let out a big snicker, I seriously laughed so hard when I saw this that I cried! My sisters and I put together a digital photo frame for my Mom, and collectively, each of us has tons of family photos that none of us has seen in almost twenty years, so this has been such a fun trip down memory lane, but so far this is the only one I have downloaded onto my computer!! This will make for some great blackmail for my brother some day!

Joseph's Lullaby

2008-12-16T23:32:00.000-08:00

This is my absoulute favorite Christmas song. I am not sure who originally wrote this, but the version I first heard was from the Christian Rock Band MercyMe. I couldn't find it on playlist.org when I originally made my Christmas mix, but I found this beautiful video on YouTube, which captures this song so magically. It uses images from The Nativity Story and The Passion, it is really moving, I warn you, I was sobbing, not just teary, but gasps. The sheer magnitude of His life, brings me to my knees. I only hope you will all enjoy it as much as I did. (You will have to pause my music player, so you can hear the sound from the video).

Winter Wonderland!

2008-12-15T16:51:00.001-08:00

Maybe this will work the second time around! I am having the hardest time with blogger right now, it totally deleted a whole post I had set and ready to go, so here it goes again!!

There is nothing better than waking up to a perfect blanket of white snow, I just love it. Snow somehow makes everything look so fresh and pure, that is until my kids find it! They were literally begging me to let them go and play in the snow at like 7:00am, and I kept telling them after breakfast, so finally after breakfast I let them go outside and play in our few inches of snow. I know my window was small because in true Southern Oregon style the snow was gone by noon, but the kids enjoyed making mini snowmen, and snow angels, and eating all the snow they could handle. My kids aren't schoolagers yet, so the term SNOWDAY means nothing to them, they just see it for what it is, a really cool sand box! Enjoy these pictures of them enjoying our Southern Oregon bounty over the last few years!!

Sweetest Adeline, those gloves weigh almost as much as she does!

I think Anden ended up throwing that snowball at me, that little dirty bird!

First attempt at a snowman!

Anden, so proud of his mini snowman!

Frosty, January 2008

Snowstorm, January 2007, when in doubt improvise with a laundry basket, and a belt for a rope! You do what you can to keep the kids happy!

Tree Trimming and PJ Party!!

2008-12-12T18:51:00.000-08:00

Here are all the photos! Finally!

I originally wanted to post this Monday night, when I actually typed it, but I can't get any of the pictures to upload to blogger, so enjoy this post, minus the tree trimming photos!

I thought I would take the opportunity to catch up on my blogging while my kids are happily enjoying a Charlie Brown Christmas, a holiday classic!! I am a little behind on our holiday happenings. We trim the tree every year right after Thanksgiving. Growing up, we would hunt for our Christmas Tree on my Mom's birthday, December 18th, so this only allowed us to enjoy it for a few weeks. It was always a huge production, and the process and outcome were always the same. We would all pile into the car, bundled from head to toe, we had hot chocolate in the thermos, and an assortment of treats, Christmas music would play from the radio, and we would all sing along, whether we liked it or not! We would go from lot to lot, looking for the perfect tree, when ultimately, the perfect tree was always at the first lot, but we never realized that until we had gone to at least 5 or 6! My Dad would always try to haggle the price down, and who knows if this actually worked, but he was known to talk officers out of tickets, so I am sure he shaved a few dollars off the price! The decorations were always the same and we hung them one by one, by birth order, saving the Tinsel for last. All of our old ornaments are stored in our garage, and I should pull them out, just for memories sake! I will, and then I will take pictures for my siblings, so they can reminisce. My favorite was this one of Smurfette with mistletoe in her hair. I wonder if she will be in that box, if she is, I will post pictures to share with all of you, I know you will be waiting with baited breath. Now that I have taken you down a pointless memory lane, on to the more exciting times at the Holley house.

We do not 'hunt' for any tree, unless you call walking into the garage for our pre-lit 10 ft Douglas fir an adventure. No need to bundle up or pull out the thermos for that excursion! I know it takes a little of the holi out of holiday, but it allows us to enjoy the tree all month without the worry of it drying out and catching on fire. The kids all get to put on a strand of garland, and then it is a free for all with the ornaments. We usually end up with a heavily decorated bottom half of the tree, and then when the kids have gone to bed I evenly disperse them, but they enjoy doing it all themselves. Every year we do themed pajamas, and this year my Mom pulled out all the stops with the matching sock monkey Christmas PJ's, courtesy of Target. They have matching adult size too, but they are the zipper kind with the feet, and that sort of freaks Ryan out, so we will be using last years PJ's instead. So there you have it, our decorating extravaganza, we still haven't put up any lights on the outside, and hopefully we will get that done this weekend, but at least the inside is done. Oh and I hear they make a fabulous 'Christmas tree' scent spray, for all of us with fake trees, so if you see it out while shopping give me a call, because that is the only thing I miss by not having a real tree, that fabulous pine smell.

(PS I just wanted to give a shout out to Charles Schultz for keeping the real Christmas story in his holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, I am sure it is the only cartoon shown on TV during the holiday season that gives any airtime to the birth of Christ, so Thanks Mr. Schultz for keeping it real!)

This is the only picture that I could get to download, so until blogger gets up and running again, enjoy this homely picture of Adeline, at least the antlers look cute! That hair is such a mess!

The kids had so much fun decorating the tree, they took their responsibility very serious. They placed each ornament just in the right spot!! Note that Aiden is the only one dressed, the rest of us fools stayed in our PJ's all day! What a great way to spend a Saturday.

Is this the cutest photo ever? She was so excited to get in the container, I think that is why she just piled all of the ornaments in one spot!

PJ Party

So my Mom came home that evening, with these adorable sock monkey jammies! The kids were already in their PJ's, but wanted to put these on, so you can see their other jammies poking through! Too Cute!

Aiden, dancing with excitement!

Ashy, showing off his Christmas style!

Anden, giving us the first 'gift' of Christmas!

Adeline, in all her glory!

Trying to get a group shot in front of the tree, but Adeline was at her limit, and Ashy is watching in awe! (FYI, I had to take Adeline to her 15 month checkup this week, and the boys asked, 'Are you taking Adeline to the Dr. to find out why she cries all the time?' I just had to laugh, but she is a princess!)

Who's afraid of the big bad..Wol, I mean Santa?

2008-12-03T22:44:00.000-08:00

As promised here are a couple of failed attempts to see Santa. I showed these pictures to the boys the other day, and they didn't get why they were crying, now that they are wise to Santa's ways! They know who brings the goods! Enjoy, or reminisce on your own failed attempts to have your children sit on Santa's lap.

The cute girl holding Ashden, is my BFF's daughter Tess, she thinks this picture is hilarious!!

And just for good measure, here is the adorable picture we used for our first Christmas card with the boys, it doesn't get any better than that, they were so stinky cute!! I have to give props to our amazing friend and photographer extraordinaire Jolyn from Ambience Photography, seriously she is the best, and she takes like a million pictures, and when you have four little ones, that is a must! So if ever in need of a good photog, give her a call!

Ashland Christmas Parade

2008-12-01T13:45:00.000-08:00

OK, so this is not what you are looking for! But literally I am getting tons of hits a day for people looking for the Ashland University Christmas Card, so here is that link, enjoy!! And leave me a message if you want!
http://ecard.ashland.edu/2004admission/index.html

Every year the day after Thanksgiving, we head on down to the city of Ashland for their Christmas Parade. This kicks off the Holiday season for our family. We have lucked out the past few years, and the weather has been chilly, but dry! This year was no exception. We bundled the kids up in all of their hats and scarves, and trekked over to the parade. The only down part, is that literally thousands of other people also kick off their festivities here as well, and parking is a pain in the behind. We never find a great spot, and when we arrive it is still light, and when we leave it is dark, so finding our car after the fun, is always a real treat!! But, even after all of that, and waiting in line to see Santa for over an hour, it is still worth it, and we will return next year.

All the kids were bundle up and ready to go. The parade starts around 4:45 up at the college, and heads all the way down Siskiyou Blvd to the Plaza, ending with the big man himself Santa Claus. There are bands, dancers, carolers, and even a book give away. We were a little late, so we only caught the tail end of the parade, and the books had already been given away. Next year we will arrive earlier. After the parade, everyone who has lined the street follows Santa down to the Plaza, where he heads up to the balcony of Alex's Restaurant. He gives a little speech about being on the Nice List, and we sang a few carols, and then the count down begins for the big illumination! 10,9,8,7,6,5.......

4, 3, 2, 1 Lights On. And the whole city of Ashland lights up! We were told there were over a million lights. WOW. And look at that crowd, there were so many people, it was just amazing!

This is Ashden inside of Santa's Sleigh, the twins were too scared to get inside. They were afraid it would take off, and they would be sent to the North Pole without us!!

Here were some sweet Carolers who kept us entertained while we waited to see Santa. After his duties on the balcony, Ole Saint Nick heads down to one of the Shakespeare theaters to greet the children and listen to what they want for Christmas. (our hour wait would have been much less if the crazy teenage girls would have just let children under 12 sit on Santa's lap, where were their parents!)

We were first greeted by Mrs. Claus, and as you can see, the boys had their eye only on Santa, they know who has the real power.

Aiden with the Ole Lady, he looks a little less than thrilled that he has to wait a few seconds longer to see Santa.

Here are Anden and Ashy, excitedly telling Santa exactly what they want: Anden-a Pogo Stick, and the Firetruck Transformer, whose name is Optimus Prime, but he looks like a firetruck. Anden was adamant to explain all the details to Santa, so that he would not be confused about which transformer he wanted. Ashden just wants a 'BIG GUN' and he said it just as loud with his arms showing the exact size. It is actually a batman gun that he saw in the Toys R Us catalog! Aiden also wants a Pogo Stick, and the Bumble Bee transformer. He has a little more faith in Santa's ability to decipher which transformer he wanted and didn't need to go into many more details. And then came Adeline.....

She wanted nothing to do with Mrs. Claus and even less with Santa!

That is about as good as it gets for the Holley family Christmas card, I guess this photo isn't going in the card. I will post pictures of past Santa visits, they are all about the same at that age!

Here she is after she got her candy cane, and all is well in her world again! So there ends our night, the kids were so excited, the weather was great, we finally found our car after we left Granny waiting on the corner for awhile, but nothing beats a holiday parade!

.26 Days.

2008-11-29T14:42:00.000-08:00

Twenty-Six days. I can't hardly believe it. Thanksgiving was late this year, so now I am in hyper Christmas mode. We set up our tree and decorate the house as soon as we have Gobbled our last Thanskgiving bite! I want to enjoy it for as long as possible! I added my favorite Christmas songs to my blog, some are classic songs by some of my favs, others may be songs you have never heard. My favorite would have to be Silent Night by Enya, if you haven't heard it already, click on it and take a listen. This song always brings me to tears, I am not sure what language it is in, but her voice is like an angel, singing of the birth of Christ, on the most Silent of all Nights. Through all of the shopping and decorating, baking and eating, friends, family and fun, the reason for all of this joy and excitement is the birth of our Savior. I am forever thankful for that day, and for His atonement. And even though Santa is a big part of the holiday in our household, we know that CHRISTmas with Christ is even bigger. Enjoy the holiday and all the wonderful excitement it brings, and stop back by for a month full of happenings with the Jolly Holleys!!

Feast for the Eyes and Ears

2008-11-26T14:25:00.000-08:00

Last night I was fed a feast, a feast for the eyes!! How lucky am I, that on the same night I got to see both Harry Connick Jr, and Steve Young?? Yeah for me! I am normally not a Biggest Loser watcher, I am a fan of the show, but life has gotten in the way and I haven't watched this season, but last night was NFL night on BL and they had both Steve and Jerry Rice on the show. They made the contestants run all sorts of drills for prizes. Who needs prizes, being trained by those two is reward enough. I would have run across the country if they had asked!! And then, as if that wasn't enough to fill my cup, I was graced by Harry on David Letterman! Another show I am hardly ever awake for, but for the good graces of a bad dream from Ashy, I was up. Harry is so witty, his one liners kill me, I would jump off a cliff if Harry ask me to in a witty one liner sort of way, and then there is his voice, oh his lovely voice. He has put out another Holiday album, I have the other two, and will quickly buy this one as soon as I go to Target! I love that big band feel, and the voice behind that laughable smile. So thank you TV Gods, you really did me a favor last night, and my kids thank you too, Charlie Brown Thanksgiving was on as well. Now all we needed was the Victoria Secrets fashion show, and the whole family would have been happy! Just Kidding, that isn't really true, maybe some movie with Vince Vaughn or Ben Stiller, or Adam Sandler, Ryan is a hoot to watch funny movies with. He laughs so hard and loud. I really do love that about him!!

Go buy this right now!

Tommorow I will post about the real feast, but for now I wish all of my fellow bloggers, a Happy Thanksgiving! All kidding aside, me and my family have so much so be thankful for this year, and alot of it has to do with great friends and family. I really am grateful to live in such a beautiful place, and to share such happy memories with all of you, so go and download some great music, turn on those ovens, and prepare a feast worthy of such wonderful company, and then blog about it, so we can all pretend like we were there with you!!

Twilight at Midnight

2008-11-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

Unbelievably delicious!! That is how I would describe my experience watching Twilight last night! So good, too good, loved it so much. Once you get past the fact that the key audience for this movie is like half my age, and just enjoy the movie for what it is, it was just fabulous. I was left wanting more, I can't wait to see movies 2, 3, and 4, so people, go watch this movie, so they can start production on the other three already!

We started the night at Red Robin with a few friends. Some of us had ordered 'Stupid' Twilight shirts from a fellow blogger to show our enthusiasm for the movie. I had originally ordered the 'cold hands make me hot' shirt, but it was printed gray on gray, and you couldn't really see the writing. Hence I ended up wearing a Team Jacob shirt, that I now regret, and would like to burn in a little bonfire ritual with my friend Christine. What was I thinking??? After reading book two, I was a huge Jacob fan, Bella was so melodramatic, and Edward, well he was off having a pity party for himself too, so Jacob had to step it up. I won't give spoilers to those who haven't finished the series, but suffice it to say after last night, I will never give a second thought to Jacob again, OK, never say never, maybe him and what's her name (I don't want to give away the ending of Breaking Dawn) will have just as much chemistry as Bella and Edward, and he will gain some new found respect. Alrighty then, enough about Jacob and on to Edward. Seriously, I am still breathtaken by him. My husband asked me last night if I loved the movie because of Edward, and he had it all wrong. It is the chemistry between the two of them that leaves you wanting more. I told him it reminded me of when we first starting dating, when I had those school girl butterflies, and we would talk for hours on the phone, and then drive three hours round trip to see each other for maybe an hour or two. Or when he would write me poems or bring me flowers for no reason, or the fact that we have never really spent more than one night apart from one another. That feeling that you first get when you realize your with someone that you don't ever want to let go. That is what the movie stirs up in me, oh, and a little lust, ok, maybe a lot of lust, but this is a family friendly sight! It brings back all of those feelings that you wish would never go away, but we all know that life has a way of creeping in and kids come and housework, and then your married, and you no longer need to talk on the phone, or drive for hours to see one another, so Twilight, thanks for bringing back all of those memories, and for casting a bunch of super hot hotties in the movie. At least I can have butterflies for a few days again.

Watch out Bella, look at these Hot Hot Hotties! They really 'vamped' it up!!

What were we thinking? Bonfire tonight at my place!

They wouldn't let us take pictures in the theater, so this is as good as it gets!

My New Obsession!

2008-11-19T14:50:00.000-08:00

So, I am completely obsessed with this new little tool I stumbled across thanks to my sweet friend Allison. It is a free photoshop like download from http://www.photoscape.org/! It has totally consumed me for the last few days. I have been having so much fun playing with all of the different editing options. I think I may even take up photography!! Just Kidding. But maybe now I will finally put to use my camera Ryan bought me for Christmas three years ago! All I want to do it take pictures so that I can play with all of the fun tools. Here is what I have 'learned' so far. Enjoy! And go to that website, you will become just as addicted as I have. Oh, and stop with the comments about pictures of me, I am not that photogenic, but I will post some soon, just so that you all know I really do exist.

I saturated the color, and then antiqued the photo.

This one is in Sepia, Antiqued, and then color blurred.

Sepia and Antiqued.

I backlit and sharpened the photo, in the original Ashy looks really washed out.

I added the cool bordered and color enhanced Adeline, so the pink really pops.

I 'bloomed' this photo, to soften the edges, and give us a gentle glow.

(Finally a photo of me)

Fall Family Fun at Pheasant Field Farms!

2008-11-16T00:30:00.000-08:00

I had to hurry up and post this before Thanksgiving, since technically it is still the Fall!! I had meant to post before Halloween, but certain people were anxious to see pics of the Holley-Ween Party!

I love fall, love, love love, and I especially love going to the Pumpkin Patch. I look forward to this all year. We go down to Seven Oaks farm at least once a week from June through October, to get fresh fruits and veggies, but once a year we trek on over to the little town of Phoenix to partake in the fun at Pheasant Field Farms. Usually, the kids are all in matching Halloween shirts from Old Navy, but I waited too long and they were all out of their sizes, so no matching shirts this year (note to self, next year go shopping earlier). They have a variety of activities, and a huge pumpkin patch. The boys started off the day with a fun foam bear magnet craft while Adeline and Granny made fruit loop necklaces.

Next we went through the kid size sunflower maze, and played with the farm animals.

They have a little sand area too, with lots of fun toys, but it was crowded so we ventured over to the game of all games, dunk the pumpkin! This is our families favorite activity. Last year Aiden was the only one to dunk the pumpkin (besides Daddy), but this year all the boys successfully knocked that crazy pumpkin in the water! They also have a pear shooting gallery, where you can launch pears from a giant sling shot into the windows of a three story haunted mansion facade. Usually this is Ryan's favorite, but this year he dunked the pumpkin instead.

Ashy, look at that form, can you say Major Leagues!!

Anden, anxiously awaiting his turn!

The MVP, two years in a row, Aiden Holley.

They also have a huge hay tower that all of the kids love to climb up, and then slide down, and yes, they all had tons of hay in their bum!

Daddy sliding down with the kids!

Ashden sliding down the hay mountain!

After that we all headed over to the giant corn maze for a game of hide and seek! We got lost for a while, which was a good thing, since all three boys had to go potty, and we were far from the bathroom, so they watered the corn stalks instead.

The kids all enjoyed picking out their pumpkins and even helped Sissy find one her size. They also tried to help me arrange the pumpkins on the door steps, but they didn't understand that putting them all in a row so people would have to step over them was a bad idea.

Last, but certainly not least, they all enjoyed a pony ride!

What a great way to spend a beautiful fall day in Southern Oregon, I don't know about the rest of you, but we sure do have the best of all seasons here in the valley. Nothing can beat the beautiful fall leaves in the hills, and the nice Indian Summer we get in October, 70 degree Saturdays!

.thank you.

2008-11-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

Today I braved the elements, 40 degree weather, and a horrendous downpour, to honor those who have given so much for our country. The war memorial in Central Point was dedicated today, I wasn't sure how the turnout would be on such a blistery day, but Southern Oregon bleeds Red, White and Blue, and the people came out in droves! I came with four kids, three umbrellas, and one double stroller to give thanks to our veterans. I get teary eyed right now just thinking about the sacrifice they have made so that we can have our freedoms. The memorial is not yet completed, but it truly is a work of art. I am proud to live in a community that treats our veterans with such honor and respect. My boys call them 'supers' and were so excited to see the gun salute, that was their favorite part. And a little stroke of luck had us parked right beside their van, so we got the up close and personal VIP treatment. There was supposed to be a fly over, but the weather got in the way, my boys didn't seem to mind, they thought the airplane landing nearby at the airport was just as cool!!

I don't come from a military family, so I can't speak of the sacrifice that families make so their loved ones can serve, but I am forever grateful for their duty and service. Today we honor you, those who have served and those who are still serving. May God bless you and your family, and may He also bless this great country. I know two men personally that have served our country with honor, so Frankers and Papa Fretz, from the bottom of our hearts, we honor you!!! Thanks for your service to us and for making our families proud!

(I wish I would have taken some pictures, but taking the camera would have sent me over the edge, it was all I could do to get the crew there!! Maybe I will have to 'steal' some photos from the paper tomorrow when they print the story, so check back)

An Angel Among Us

2008-11-05T22:40:00.001-08:00

This is a hard post to write. I am more suited for the fun posts, that chronicle happy times and joyful memories. I have a friend who's son needs our help. Following is an article that appeared in the Ashland Daily Tidings.

November 4, 2008
Ashland rallies to help young boy's family
By Angela Howe-Decker
Tidings correspondent

Two benefits have been scheduled to raise money for the family of Kealii Chamberlin, who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor.

The community is pitching in to help the family of 8-year old Kealii Chamberlin, who was recently diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor called medulloblastoma. Doctors in Ashland discovered the tumor and flew the youngster to Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Portland. After an 8-hour surgery, most of the fist-sized tumor was successfully removed, but the little boy will need one more surgery, six weeks of radiation therapy, and six months of chemotherapy.

Friends of the Chamberlins are organizing a soccer tournament and a movie event as fundraisers to help with the overwhelming medical and travel expenses."People are trying to step up and help the family, such as organizing fundraisers and making meals. We have also opened a bank account in the family's name for donations," said family friend Dannae LaQua. "The Chamberlins are amazing people, they are an amazing family," she added.The family has a long history in Ashland.

Nicole and Jon Chamberlin met as students at SOU in 1994, where he played football for the college and she played basketball. "We have been here ever since," she said. Nicole is an Oregon native and Jon is from Waimea, Hawaii. Kealii's name is Hawaiian, short for Kealiihoomaluokekai, which means chief protector of the ocean, but friends and family call him Bradda. He and his twin sister are second-graders at Bellview elementary. He also has a younger sister and a baby brother.

Nicole describes her son as "an old soul" who always thinks of others first and loves being with his family. She remembers as he was being prepared for his life-flight to Portland, he tried to reassure his father. "He said, 'don't worry dad, everything is going to be OK.'"Bradda loves animals and wants to be a veterinarian when he grows up. He also loves outdoor activities and sports, especially basketball.

The Chamberlins have been touched by the outpouring of support they have received since their son's diagnosis."We want to say thank you to the community for all their support, thoughtfulness and concern. It is amazing how a community can come together for a family in a time of need, from the people we know to those we don't," Nicole said. "We are forever grateful and when we are finished with our journey we too hope to help others the way they have done for us," she added.

There are two fundraising events scheduled.

The first is on Nov. 9, at 11 a.m., at the YMCA Soccer Fields, where community members are invited to Bradda's Soccer Tournament. Local soccer teams (6- to 8-year-olds), including Bradda's, will compete during this one-day soccer tournament. Concessions will be available. Call Nick at (541) 890-7230 with questions or to help sponsor this event.

The second is on Nov. 15, at 9 a.m. when Ashland Street Cinemas will host Bradda's Family Movie Morning. The movie begins at 9:30 a.m. The cost is $10 per person, which includes free concessions. "Madagascar 2: Escape to Africa" (a new release) will be screened. There will also be a silent auction. Organizers advise arriving early as seating is limited. For more information call Rainy at (541) 779-3309.

All the proceeds from these events will go to the Chamberlin family. Donations may also be made directly by mail. Make checks payable to John and Nicole Chamberlin and mail to Lucy McLennan, PMB #159, 2305 Ashland Street, Suite C, Ashland OR 97520.

Bradda is truly an amazing little boy. He is so sweet, and has such a great demeanor. He also has a twin sister Ula, so of course I have a special place in my heart for him and his sister. I remember when they were first born, about this same time eight years earlier. They were early and had to spend a few days in the NICU, not wanting them to miss out on their first Halloween, my friend Tee and I, picked up some cute Halloween socks and hats to take to them, since that is about all they can wear in the NICU!! When my twins were born a few years later, Nicole, their Mom, was one of the first to call and tell me not to worry, that even though my babies were born early, they too would be healthy and live normal lives. What a comfort that was, having babies born at 33 weeks. I wish I could tell her the same thing now. They are an amazing family, Bradda has another little sister and a baby brother who just turned one. He is so good with his siblings, and he was always so sweet to my little boys, I think he liked that they were twins too! If you can't make it to the movie, just keep them in your prayers. He starts Chemo in a few weeks, and although the road will be long, the doctors are optimistic. His Mom is just amazing, there family is amazing, they take the kids on all kinds of adventures. I think they rafted down the river before their first birthday. He is a fighter, just look at that photo, he is such a character. We love you Bradda, keep on fighting.

HOLLEY-ween SPOOKtacular!!!

2008-11-02T10:15:00.000-08:00

This post was enhanced by the album version of Thriller by Michael Jackson.

As most of you already know, and the two people that may read this that don't know me, I LOVE holidays, and especially this time of year! Fall is by far my favorite season, first of all, it means turtleneck season is upon us, and I am a sucker for all things turtlenecked, mocknecked or cowl necked. Next, my house is all done in deep browns and reds, so I feel coziest in those warm neutral colors, but finally.....I love to throw parties, and this season lets me throw back to back to back shindigs!! Much to my delight (sorry Jen but it is true!!), Jen and Matt, the official adult Halloween party throwers for the last three years, were in Hawaii this year, so I became the unofficial adult Halloween party thrower for the 2008 season! How fun for me! I borrowed all of Jen's decorations, and Christine and I had a hoot decorating the house for the big event. I must say the house somehow looks better with all of those candles sticks and spooky pictures on the walls. If you don't look too closely, you would think they were just normal decorations! I wanted to do an 80's theme, because quite frankly I love all things 80's, and I think it gives some uniformity to the party, and I love uniformity. Plus, in a moment of sheer delusion, I came up with the crazy rhyming invitation:

Ghosts and goblins beware
We’re throwing a party with lots of flair!
We’ve added a twist for those who dare
A costume themed gala that’s sure to scare

Come dressed from the 80’s, all outfits will do
From Michael to Madonna, and Pac-man too
Be creative, and funny, and not too crude
Think outside of the box, like a Rubik's cube

If the 80’s don’t suit you, then come as you may,
Just don’t forget to come on the 24th day!!
The time starts at 8:00, so come if you dare,
And bring something sweet or savory to share.

My address is the place to be.
The Holley household will be dressed to a Tee.
Leave the kids at home with a proper sitter,
All who don’t attend are sure to be bitter!!

Enough said, I am a looney tune! But, it did make us all reminisce and we had some great costumes! From tons of classic 80's outfits, to Michale Jackson, Kiss, Guns & Roses, and Milli Vanilli (maybe is was the real MV-Jared and Christine were you the real voices behind that 80's sensation??). We had both sides of the Tom Cruise character in Top Gun-flight suit to black leather jacket, and even the hot Kelly McGillis. Punky Brewster, The Flinstones and Smurfs (that would be us under all of that blue) made an appearance as well as classic 80's commercials 'Where's the beef? and 'This is your brain on drugs'. We had some non 80's costumes and they looked fabulous as well, or should I say they looked 'incredible'!!! We ate lots of great food, and played some classics, like 80's movie pictionary, twister, bobbing for apples, and our favorite pass the orange with your neck game! That is always a crowd pleaser, especially with the men! This is about as crazy as a Mormon party will ever get, necking with an orange!!! In the end, I hope everyone had lots of fun, I know I did, and maybe next year, I'll buy the tickets to send Matt and Jen out of town, JK. We sure did miss you guys, no party is ever complete without Matt in a stretchy suit, aka Nacho Libre, I still laugh every time I flash back to you in that costume. Enjoy the pics, and scroll on down for the much tamer Joy School Halloween recap:

Milli & Papa Smurf-before the festivities started.

Milli & Vanilli

Yabba Dabba Doo

Michael & Kiss

Where's the Beef?

Check out the 'back' on that 'baby'!

The Incredibles

80's Classic Infomercial

Group shot #1, with Smurfette and Papa Smurf, but no Aaron or Spencer.

Group shot #2 without Smurfette, but with Spencer and Aaron, Spencer is in Camo, can you find him?

Group shot #3, with no Pap Smurf, and seriously, where is Spencer???

JOY 'SKULL' PARTY

I strategically picked my days for joy school so that it would fall on my turn the week of Halloween! This is such a fun time of year, and my little ones will only be little for so long, so I have to take every opportunity possible to have fun with them before I am no longer the cool Mom, and they just want to hang at Benny's house because, well who wouldn't! This year I just invited the six boys from the 'big' joy school and the four boys from the 'little' joy school, and their siblings, plus two stow aways, but they are my favorite, so they are invited anytime!!! All kids came in costume, and it looked like an official meeting of the Justice League. I have never seen so many Supers in one location. Hopefully the crime rate didn't skyrocket while all of the Hero's were living it up at the Halloween party. The kids really didn't need to have any structure, they were super content just running amok and screaming at the top of their lungs. But like all good parties we needed a few activities to harness all of that energy. We did a cute foam craft, because if you have read my other posts, I love foam. It's cute, easy, and virtually mess free. We played pin the nose on the pumpkin, bobbed for apples, ate donuts on a string, and went for a quick parade through the neighborhood before eating lunch and yummy treats. I hope the kids had as much fun as I did, I really do love all of those little kids, my boys just love having so many fun friends, and I must say, I love having all of the Mom's as fun friends. What a great bunch of ladies!!

Craft Time

Tink and Pink

Ahoy Matte!

Bobbing for apples!

Donuts on a string, what could be better?

Neighborhood Parade

Supers on a mission

Lunch Time!

The whole wild and crazy bunch!

HALLOWEEN NIGHT

After all of those fun parties we finally made it to Halloween night! For all of you who can't tell the twins apart, Aiden is the Power Ranger, and Anden is Superman, and of course cute Ashy was Batman. The boys were the same thing last year, and we were just going to have them rotate costumes, but they were all content being their same Super, Thank goodness. I am hoping to get at least one more year out of these costumes! Our sweet little Adeline was a pink fairy princess, and let me tell you, that girl figured Halloween out fast. By the second door she knew what to do. She would walk up to the door and knock with her little fist, then pick her candy from the bowl, put it in her basket and move on! That's my girl. All of the neighbors thought she was just the cutest thing, and how could they not. Ashden was all worn out from the Trunk or Treat at the church and slept through the real Trick or Treating, but by the time Ryan got home with him, he had woken up and wondered where all of his loot was! In all, the kids had such a fun Halloween season, and I am 'super' excited for next year. They will be school agers then, and we will get to enjoy all of the fun that comes with school activities, carnivals and parades. I better start planning my treat bags for that right now, especially when everything is 50% off!

Almost ready to go!

Give me some candy!

All tuckered out!

yummy, yummy chocolate

Ready for bed, finally!

Tag Teamed Twice!!

2008-10-29T22:01:00.000-07:00

OK, I get it already! I have been tagged twice, so I guess I should probably respond. I will also take this time to do a little blog housekeeping! I have so much to blog about, but I selfishly wanted to leave the blog of my brother up for a long time. Did I mention how proud I am of him?? Anywho, our household has been major busy, OK, when I say household I really am just talking about myself! Between working, planning parties, soccer, and being an all around incredible Mom, I just haven't had time to keep up on this thing. Because now instead of blogging at night, I have been trying, and I use that term loosely, to do my Pilates video, in a hopes that I can shave some much needed inches off of my mid section, or as I like to call it, "my trouble spot". I need to look fabulous before December 18th, when I may get to go to La La land, aka Hollywood, and eat at my bro's restaurant. I can't show up looking like the frumpy stay at home Mom we all know I am. Oh, and Ryan also started college full time, and starts his training at the hospital next week! Our lives are crazy, but crazy wonderful too! Ahem, Ahem, here goes the tagging! I will start with the more whimsical of the two.

First Tag
From the blogger of all bloggers, Sarah I

What was I doing 10 years ago?

OK, so this was a crazy hectic time in my life! I was going to Southern Oregon University full time, studying Criminology, while working three jobs, yes three! Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights from 3-11, I was hold onto your hat the B.I.N.G.O Manager of the Arc, a nonprofit organization that advocates for individuals with Developmental Disabilities. Did you get all of that? B-15, B one five. I hung out with all of the gray hairs of Josephine county. If I die of lung cancer, now you know why. Sunday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday I worked as the Part-Time Assistant Manager of The Limited. I loved that place more than life itself. I worked there for 6years, up until the day it closed, and I still keep in contact with almost all of the fabulous ladies I worked with. That is where I met my BFF Tee, who can fold a jean wall like no other lady I know, and I have pictures to prove it! And between all of that, if I ever had a free moment, I would provide respite care for families with children who were disabled. They can't just hire a normal babysitter to tend to a child who may be medically fragile or have behavior issues. I did all of this while living in Grants Pass, and driving every morning to Ashland for school.

What is on my to-do list?

What is NOT on my to-do list??

What are my favorite snacks?

Anything with chocolate! I don't see the point in wasting calories on snacks that don't contain that key ingredient.

What would I do if I were a Millionaire?

WOW, this could start some serious day dreaming. After the government took its share, and then I paid tithing. I would buy a house with wainscoting and beautiful hardware, and white cupboards, and a red kitchen, with rich brown furniture all from Pottery Barn (did you hear that Phoebe?) with themed kids bedrooms, and a soaker claw foot tub, and a yard with a pool, so all of the kids would hang out at our house, and a walk in pantry, and dark wide planked hardwood floors. See what you started? I need to move on to the next question before the self loathing begins.

Places I've lived.

Panarama City, CA
Glendale, CA
Canyon Country, CA
Taylorsville, UT
Murray, UT
Grants Pass, OR
Sacramento, CA
Talent, OR
Medford, OR
Murphy, OR
Central Point, OR

Jobs I've Had.

Babysitter
YMCA-Jr Camp Counselor
Alpha Tel-Com-Coin Collector
Geraldi's Deli-Sandwich Maker
ARC Bingo-Manager
The Limited-Asst. Manager
Respite Care Provider
Jackson County District Attorney's Office-Intern
Country Insurance & Financial Services-Insurance Agent
Tuesday Morning-Retail
ColdWater Creek-Visual
Mom-hardest dang job I have ever had!

Conference Tag

My cute friend Allison tagged me a while ago, and all answers are related to what I watched/learned at General Conference, or my own spiritual thoughts.

I am... a daughter of my Heavenly Father, who loves me and I love him!
I wish....I would apply the teachings of the gospel more fully in my life.
I want....my children to grow up with a love for the gospel, and for their Savior, Jesus Christ.
I have....a testimony of the restored gospel and how it has the power to change lives for the better.
I hate....how negative I can be, when I am so blessed.

I fear...the unknown (and that Obama will become President).
I hear...the sweet sounds of the children's choir as they sang for all to hear 'I am a child of God'
I always...smile when I hear President Monson speak.
I usually...fall asleep during conference, but not this year!
I am not....going to forget the message to triumph in times of adversity, and remember that the Lord is always right their with us, in good times and bad.
I dance.....when the music makes my feet move!
I sing....when it is a song I like or when no one is around.
I never.....regret a moment, all those moments add up to who I am today.
I rarely.....read my scriptures with a specific purpose in mind, I need to work on that.
I cry.....whenever the spirit touches me, which lately, is often.
I am not always.....as good of a neighbor as I should be.
I lose.......opportunities to serve, when I think only of myself.
I'm confused.....by nothing really, life is played out exactly how we prepare for it.
I need.....to go to the Temple on a more regular basis.
I should....be reading my scriptures, rather than blogging.
I dream.....for a life filled with family and forever.

I tag for both.....big surprise Christine I.

XIV Opening

2008-10-15T14:09:00.000-07:00

Update: Check out the blog to the left FOOD FASHIONISTA, she has two spectacular reviews of the restaurant and opening soiree, with tons of descriptions and photos.

Yesterday was the 'by invitation only' opening of my brothers new restaurant in Los Angeles, XIV (14 in Roman Numerals), Steve is the Executive Chef, under owner and celebrity chef Michael Mina (this is his 14th restaurant, hence the name). It is a collaboration with SBE, which is a huge entertainment group, and Philippe Starck, who is a designer extraordinaire! The restaurants interior plays off of the XIV theme with a Louise the XIV, futurist feel. They have been working on this project for years, and Michael has had my brother in mind as the head chef since its inception. He knew that someone with that kind of ego could only fit right in in the Hollywood scene. So here goes the hope that my brother doesn't show up on trashy celeb shows like TMZ, or end up hooking up with someone on The Hills!! To say I am not so proud of him would be a huge understatement. I have a series of posts in the works that chronicle his journey up the ranks in the realm of chefhood. He has put in his time. He has also seen his fare share of celebrities and cooked for the likes of Trump, Prince Harry, Martha Stewart, and Snoop Dogg to name a few. But I will give more details later. This post is all about his latest venue. Tomorrow is the grand opening to the public, and as of today, they were over booked, and the reservations were filling up fast through the end of the year! Last night was all about the Wow factor, but the true test will be from those with a more selective palate. Steve has spent countless hours coming up with new and innovative food ideas to knock the socks off even the most snooty of food critics ie, Michael Bauer, for all of those that read the SF Chronicle! It truly is an art form, and I marvel every time I see or taste his food. Here is a photo recap of the star studded event. The majority of the celebs were from Dancing with the Stars, and The Hills, which airs on MTV, super diva Cher also made an appearance. Steve, I know you don't have time to read my daily ramblings, but if you ever do, we are so proud of you. All of your hard work has finally paid off, and you are finally reaping those rewards! Not that the huge paycheck isn't bad either, but now you will get the press you deserve. Thanks Michael for taking a chance on my little bro, he will not let you down.

The front of the restaurant.

Celebrity Chef Michael Mina

The red carpet and press lineup.

The team: Philippe Starck-Designer, Sam Nazarian of SBE/Owner, Michael Mina-Chef.

Audrina Patridge and Kim Kardashian.

Lance Bass and Toni Braxton.

Spencer Pratt, Kimberly Brandon, Heidi Montag and owner Sam Nazarian.

My brother Chef Fretz at the far right.

The interior.

Pumpkin Dumplings-Stewed Cherries, Brown Butter, Sage

Dungeness Crab En Feuille de Brik - Avocado Creme Fraiche, Yuzu

White Chocolate Cube, Orange Blossom Cream, Coriander, Pistachio, Sake

Thanks for the Memories

2008-10-06T21:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday they retired the jersey of the greatest Quarterback of all time, and my favorite player ever, Steve Young, or as we like to call him 'Steverino'. So in honor of #8, here is a recap of my love affair with my Steverino. I have loved the Niners for as long as I can remember, being a West Coast gal born in California, it was just natural to cheer on the city by the bay. The Niners have seen their fair share of ups and downs, and when they are up, they are up, but when they are down, they are down. Who can forget the days of Jerry and Steve, oh the memories, and then came the days of Steve and T.O., what a loser! I don't know how many times I have seen them play at the Stick, or whatever it is they are calling the stadium now, but the routine was always the same. My friend Tee and her family, aka Frankers, had season tickets. Super awesome seats behind the end zone. We would drive down to Camino, and stay with her sister, then wake up early to drive to the city. We always stopped in Vacaville, at the Safeway to buy snacks for the game; sourdough bread, peanut-butter M&M's, water, and some sort of chips. Then we would go to the coffee shop for hot beverages, and bagels. We would arrive at the stadium, and tail gate with all of Tee's Italian relatives, who are crazy Niner fans!! The games were always so much fun, and we were always anxious to see what flavor of the month the guy sitting in front of us would bring to the game. Every game was a different girl. We would secretly compare each one from the other. Maybe we should have shared our thoughts with this poor chappy. He had some random taste in women. Anywho, back to the Niners, and my Steve. Tee and I would take turns using the binoculars to stare at Steverino on the side lines when he wasn't playing, and had his helmet off!! He is truly an all American man. I loved that he wasn't afraid to run with the ball, he was such a dynamic player. He had such presence on the field. Now flash forward to his retirement, we were sad to see him go, but understood his need to get married and start a family. I mean he is Mormon and all, and the tabloids were having a field day with him for years. But his wife, Barbara, (that was hard to write) is so cute, and their three little kids, with one on the way, were perfectly coordinated in their various shades of blue. I would have like to see them in a little Niner Red and Gold, but they looked fabulous, and Steve with his famous smile, made my heart skip a beat.

So for now I will have to settle on being in laws with him, I am betting on a Young/Holley hook up in about 20 years at a little school called BYU. He has a daughter, I have three sons. Adeline might be a little young for the older boys, but maybe the baby in utero is a boy!! So Steverino, thanks for the memories, and here is a shout out to the highest rated QB in NFL history, we love you and your sweet family. And, Frankers, thanks for letting me tag along to all of those football games, those are some of my favorite memories. I am sad that you gave up the tickets, but I understand, maybe when the Niners management pulls their heads out of their you know what, the team will get back on track, but at least we can be grateful for one thing.....the Niners have the hottest Coach ever, Nolan, you are eye candy, and those suits, WOW, you are the greatest thing to grace the sidelines since the Gold Rush cheerleaders.

Choo-Choo This is Who: Ashden Turns Three!!

2008-10-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

Monday was our littlest man's Third birthday, and we invited the whole town, OK, maybe not the whole town, but almost 50 people, 32 which were four and under, to help celebrate. We (I mean my Mom!) rented out the Medford Train park, which was a real treat because the park is only open to the public the 2nd and 4th Sundays from 11-3, April thru October, and since our church pretty much takes up the whole day on Sunday, none of us can ever go. I didn't want to be selfish and keep the park all to myself, so I gave an open invite to all who would listen. It was such a fun event. My friend Christine, who's son is Ashden's best bud, was brought to tears from the excitement. The train park is set up like a little miniature town, we went under tunnels and over bridges, we saw 'bears' roasting marshmallows, and squirrels running for cover. The ride is seven miles long, and the track is 1 1/2 miles of continuous track (for all of you train enthusiasts who may be wondering). The train only stopped while the kids quickly inhaled their lunch, and ate cupcakes, and then again while we rushed Ashden through the presents. Other than that, the train was always a runnin'. We even called a couple of Daddies to come and take a ride too!! This was probably one of my favorite birthday parties, the kids had so much fun, and I don't think Ashden moved from his little spot on the train the whole time. Adeline also enjoyed the train, every time we went through the tunnel she would scream with the big kids, and stretch her arms out. Giving me an even bigger reminder that she loves all things boys do, and nothing that girls do. I may need some therapy, where is my sweet little girl that is suppose to love dolls and pink, and only want to be with her Mommy! OK, enough about that, this is Ashden's birthday already! After two hours on the train, the party had to come to an end, so down came the balloons, and off went the paper train placemats, and back to reality. So Happy Birthday Ashden, we sure do love you. Following is a photo recap of the event. Notice that in all the pictures of Ashden, his face is dirty with chocolate. That is our boy, he loves treats, I think he had like three cupcakes, oh well, one for each year!! Thanks to everyone who came, maybe next year we should just rent it out and make it a family affair!

Look at the excitement in his face!!

Ashy, and his best bud Marcus!

All Aboard!!

I don't know who is having more fun, the parents or the kids!!
Going through the tunnel!
Party Time!
Birthday Boy
Yummy, Yummy Cupcakes!!

I Love 'K-LOVE'

2008-09-21T23:02:00.000-07:00

About 8 years ago, I was turned on to this little gem of a radio station. I had never before been a fan of Christian Rock, but a good friend of mine (thanks Mary) has two girls who are now teenagers, and was concerned with mainstream music. Now before you go get your panties in a ruffle, I am not opposed to pop music or any music for that matter, I have been known to shake a tail feather or two in my time, but I do think that what they play on the radio now a days leaves little to the imagination, ie; 'I kissed a girl and I liked it' are you kidding me?? What the crap is that? I have enough to worry about than to constantly be screening what comes on the radio, so in our car we listen to 96.5, and before you know it, you are hooked. Alot of the bands have that Daughtry feel, and the lyrics won't send you into a three hour discussion on the birds and the bees!! Some of my favs are, Chris Rice , Third Day , MercyMe , and Natalie Grant . K-LOVE's theme is 'positive & encouraging', and that pretty much sums it up. About two years ago, when I was going through a hard time in my life, I would pack the kids in the car and drive around for hours, and I would find answers to my prayers in these songs. Music has such a powerful way of reaching your soul. So if you find yourself in my same situation, and are in need of some music therapy, turn your dial to 96.5 (in the Southern Oregon region), and you will be pleasantly surprised at what you have been missing out on all these years, and for those of you who are already a fan, yeah to you!! If you have a minute, listen to my playlist and tell me what you think!

Ode to 'Joy' School

2008-09-18T17:02:00.001-07:00

Sorry, the music for this post has been changed, but if you would have looked at my blog the day this posted you would've enjoyed a rockin' version of 'Ode to Joy' by Beethoven.

The boys all started preschool last week, and it has been such a 'joy'. It is a co-op Joy School with other Mom's and we rotate between houses. We have jokingly called it the boys club, because between both classes there is not one girl among them! The twins are with four of their friends, and my turn to teach is next week. I believe I have Health and Nutrition! Yeah for me, I will post on that next week! The older boys go Tues/Thurs from 9-11:30, and after two weeks I have seen such a change in them, somehow they seem so much older and they take school very seriously. I use the term school loosely because I am not as concerned with academics as I am with them having a love for learning, and enjoy the process rather than doing a bunch of worksheets, or tracing letters. All of the Mom's on board are really hands on, and so far so much fun! I could not have asked for a better group of ladies, thanks gals, you're the best. This week was my first week to teach Ashden's friends one day a week for an hour and a half and Wow, that was an hour and a half of the 'horse and pony show' staring me in all my glory. We sang, we danced, we hunted for Dinosaurs, made Lion faces, read books, and in my nicest Mommy voice quickly diverted four 3 year olds and two four year olds (Aiden and Anden), from wrestling each other the entire time! Those boys have energy, I need to bottle it up and make myself some money! Oh, did I mention I was also trying to entertain my one year old as well, that didn't go quite as well, and I wish I would have taken a picture of the mess she created why I was busily trying to do craft time with the crew. It was definitely an 'are you kidding me' moment. Only two feet away from me she carefully pulled the soda crackers from the cupboard and poured them all over the floor, and somehow managed to pull the lid off of her milk and make a paste like substance. She was being quiet so why would I be worried? Note to self, if one year old child is ever quiet for more than three minutes, trouble is brewing. But even after all of that it was so much fun and I wouldn't trade it for the world, they are only little for a short while, and I would rather spend my time teaching and playing, than having some 'Mommy time' (although the weeks I am not teaching are turning out to be like a little retreat, who knew that having one or two kids gone could make such a difference in my sanity!). I know I will have plenty of me time when I am no longer the coolest person in their life. So here goes to many years of Joy School, maybe after the third or fourth year I will be singing a different tune, but for now it is an 'Ode to Joy' for me!!

The World's Most Delightful Cupcakes

2008-09-12T23:24:00.000-07:00

Here is the promised recipe thanks to my fabulous friend MJ. You won't be disappointed in the end result!!

Chocolate Cupcakes

2 cups sugar

1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

2 eggs

1 cup milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

Heat oven to 350. Line muffin tins with paper baking cups. Combine dry ingredients in large bowl. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; beat on medium speed for two minutes. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin). Pour into muffin tins. Bake 20 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes; remove from tins to wire racks. Cool completely before frosting. Makes about 30 cupcakes.

Buttercream Icing

5 T. soft butter or more (I use a whole cube!)

3 cups sifted powdered sugar

3 T milk or cream

1 1/2 tsp. Madagascar vanilla

unsweetened cocoa powder if desired for chocolate icing

Blend butter and sugar together. Stir in cream and vanilla until smooth. For chocolate frosting add cocoa powder and extra milk to desired consistency. Enjoy!!

Adeline's First Birthday!

2008-09-11T22:40:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know me, birthday parties are a big deal in my family. I have a friend who will remain anonymous, OK her name is Monique, who seriously throws outlandish B-Day parties. I will have to post more about that later. So here goes the big day for Adeline. Last February I found the cutest Valentine cupcake paraphernalia at Target (my favorite store in the universe), I waited patiently until the day after to purchase said items at 75% off anticipating my one and only daughters first birthday. So with that said, she had a pink and brown cupcake themed birthday. I made cute little chocolate cupcakes from my friend MJ's delightful homemade recipe which I will include at the end of this post, with pink buttercream frosting and brown little jimmies on top. We also had pink and brown whoppers, and strawberries with raspberry marshmallow fluff, and some pink ice-cream strawberry soda concoction. As you are probably imagining, it was a sugar feast, and yes, my kids all had the dirty squirties the day after. I invited her four little girlfriends and their siblings and we decorated picture frames with foam art (my favorite craft item in the world), and then made footprints and handprints to put in the frames. FYI-every good kid party should include a themed craft!! It keeps the party rolling, and makes for a great souvenir. Adeline was dressed in her birthday Tutu, thanks to Granny, and as much as I want her to be a girlie girl, I think she may end up being a tomboy. How sad for me. I will keep pushing the pink for as long as I can. The party was set, the house was decorated, the food look edible, the guests had arrived, the craft was going strong, all seemed well in my world. The husband was put in charge of the picture taking, and it looked like he was capturing all of those precious moments I knew I was going to scrap with my carefully coordinated cupcake paper that matched the party perfectly thanks to Target and the genius' behind their marketing who managed to sucker me into buying every last bit of their Valentine cupcake magic. Who knew that all of that would come crashing down when said husband informed me that he accidentally tried to format the memory card on the camera and erased the whole first half of the party. This may seem like an accident to you, but this same thing happened three years earlier when I received said camera for Christmas and he erased all pictures of Holiday 2005. Someday I will post the pictures I tried to recreate of that Christmas a week after the fact! Enough said, I needed a few minutes in the bathroom to cry just a bit, and recompose myself for all of my party guests. So despite the mishap, it was a fabulous event filled with friends, food (OK, junk), and memories that will hopefully last a lifetime, if not in my mind, at least on cupcake paper in 10 years when I finally get caught up on my scrapbook albums. Following is a photo montage of the day. And for those of you who may be wondering what Adeline's big gift was........her first Cabbage Patch Kid who looks exactly like my first CPK, thanks to the people at Babyland General who launched the 25th anniversary dolls just in time for her birthday. Who knew I had so much power and control!!

Tutu and Pink Mary Janes!!

Sugar induced meltdown.

Adeline and Co.
Pretty as a Princess
Cupcakes
Craft
Coveted CPK

Quick Update

2008-09-11T13:29:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't even started this whole blog thing yet, but I am gearing up to take over the blogging world, watch out Sarah!! Hopefully I will start posting soon, but for anyone who may check this. I am banning all forms of Entertainment (ie, Movies, TV, Magazines, Rentals, etc) from now until Election Day to show my support to the McCain/Palin ticket, and to more importantly show Hollywood that Republicans can and will stand up for Family Values and won't let their one sided views distort the truth, or give them a platform to rant. Join me over the next two months, and let your voice be heard, one vote at a time!!