Robbie & Mindy

{Heather Kimber Photography}

2011-10-05T14:45:00.001-07:00

Here are a few of my favorite shots from our family pictures this fall.
Love his smile.

It was not easy getting on that fence.

My little rascal.

Seriously, the sweetest kid you will ever meet.

The kids with Grandma and Grandpa Anderson.

My Mom and Dad have been married for 45 years.

Awe....how sweet.

Loving on Grandma. They like her better than me cause she buys oreos.

Heather did an amazing job with our pictures. If she can get Rocky and Sawyer to smile for pictures she must be the best. Visit her website http://heatherkimberphotography.com.

Cool Stairs

2011-09-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

Aren't these the coolest stairs EVER? ~~~Hmmm, I wonder if Robbie would kill me if I tried to recreate something like this?~~~

How I'd like to spend the rest of my summer

2011-08-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

put your feet up: to relax, especially by sitting with your feet supported above the ground Look very closely....Hoser is stalking me out the glass door.

Patio Project

2011-08-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

This patio was on the top of my honey-do list for Robbie this year. It was such a mess. I gave him a two week deadline to get it done and together we were able to accomplish.....
THIS!

We did this all with our bare hands. Robbie wheelbarrowed each load of concrete himself and then we would level and finish it together. After it dried I rolled it with some concrete stain and sealer. I have to say Robbie is the hardest worker I have ever known. He amazes me!

After uploading the pics I noticed Hoser was stalking us out the glass door in each one. LOL

Red, White, and Blue

2011-08-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

I LoVe the 4th of July. It's my most favorite holiday. It's become my new tradition to get a picture of the boys in front of Grandpa's flag each year. Here are the three yay-hoo's. All I see is trouble ahead. Sawyer, Ryker, Rocky

Grandpa Mike with the boys. The only one missing is Peyton. Lucky Grams and Gramps to have all these boys next door. hehehe!

We hit the parade and then the park. Sawyer was all about the camera that day.

Then we went to Aunt Kami's for a BBQ and some slide action.

It was such a fun day.

Kennedie, Maggie, Rocky, Sawyer

New Puppy

2011-08-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

Meet our new puppy Cricket. The boys just love her to pieces and Robbie is pretty smitten too. Oh my goodness! Look at her sweet face! This was before her haircut.

And this is her after.

Zoo Trip

2011-08-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

This year we made a trip to the zoo with Aunt Kami and cousin Carter. It was so busy but we still had lots of fun.The boys were most excited to see the apes.

It's about time!

2011-02-06T06:25:00.000-08:00

Well, it's about time I update my blog! I have just been very busy lately. I got a job for the credit union. And what was supposed to be part-time hours is full-time until one of the girls gets back from maternity leave.

This has been a huge adjustment for me. Even though I love the job, I really miss being home with my kids. And since I am so tired when I get home, all painting projects are on the back burner.

So, no promises for future blog posts. But you can friend me on facebook. :)

Santa Claus Comes Tonight!

2010-12-24T08:35:00.001-08:00

Hope y'all have a wonderful Christmas!

Life is an endless struggle full of frustrations and challenges, but eventually you find a hair stylist you like.

2010-12-09T08:09:00.000-08:00

I have been growing my hair out for 20 years! I dream of having hair like....

Jennifer Love Hewitt

or Vanessa Marcil.

But I think I'm meant for Sharon Stone hair.

*sigh* I think I'll keep growing.....for now.

What do you think? Grow Long or Cut Short?

Tigger's don't jump, they bounce

2010-12-05T10:02:00.000-08:00

This was their idea. How they found 3 Tigger costumes, I have no idea.

SNOW!

2010-11-22T11:07:00.000-08:00

I LOVE the first snow of the season. I told Robbie to go outside and help the kids build a snowman and he said,

"I can do better than that."
So here is "JAWS."

Autumn Days

2010-11-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

Lovin' the rain this autumn day. :-)

Fall Photo Shoot

2010-11-06T15:19:00.000-07:00

It's been way too long since I've taken the boys pictures so I decided to load them up and head on over to the Grist Mill for an ametuer photo shoot. The boys on the new brigde Grandpa Mike helped build.
Rocky was lovin' the camera this day.

This was the only smile I could get out of Sawyer.

And sweet Canyon!

"A boy's story is the best that is ever told."

I'm itching to be stitching!

2010-11-03T08:45:00.000-07:00

I put my new "Sewing Corner" to good use and stitched together a few pillows.

Have a wonderful day!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-30T21:02:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween!

May your bobbin always be full!

2010-10-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

I've been itchin' for some stitchin' lately but I hate dragging out my sewing machine every time I want to use it. So today I made a little sewing corner in my laudry room. Now it's ready to go whenever I please.
Thread to my left.

A basket of fabric and patterns to my right. *Still building courage to attempt one of these aprons.

Now I want to make something pretty. :-)

oh boy!

2010-10-20T11:45:00.000-07:00

I have totally overwhelmed myself with projects and I am hoping to have my home in order before Thanksgiving. What was I thinking painting the entire house!!! I have some sort of disorder that makes it impossible for me to JUST SIT DOWN. Anyway, can't wait to reveal all my hard work. Stay tuned.

Well, I love her.....but I love to fish

2010-09-27T15:43:00.001-07:00

*sigh*

Let me tell you, I have a HUGE crush on this man right here.....Brad Paisley!
But I have an even HUGER crush on the man who got us tickets to see his concert friday night!

We threw out our blanket at the Usana Amphitheatre and let me tell you, Brad Paisley rocked it.

Not only did we get to see Brad Paisley but he also brought along Justin Moore,

Darius Rucker,

and Alison Krauss, who was there to sing "Whiskey Lullaby" with him.

We had an incredible night.....just the two of us.

My CuZ Got Hitched

2010-09-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

I had a very busy week this past week because my little cousin got mArRiEd! Leona Mae Schulz is now Mrs. Alex Smith!

The ceremony was held in my brother Scott's lovely yard.

He's the handsome man in the middle.

Just one of the wedding planners...my Momma!

Lookin' Goy-geous!

This good lookin' fella was in the wedding party.

Love him in that shirt and tie!

Lucky me! I was a bRiDeSmAiD...or matron?

Canyons job was to escort the flower girl down the "aisle".

She was a little shy and 'Oh so Cute'!

You can tell by his posture he was soooo excited to do it.

Typical boy I guess. lol

Leona looked absolutely beautiful in her gown and her father gave her away.

And I know Leona's mom was looking down on her smiling.

The ceremony was beautiful.

And we are lucky to have a great guy like Alex join the family.

Yard Sale SCORE!

2010-08-26T08:41:00.000-07:00

I LOVE a good yard sale. A couple of weeks ago I found the yard sale of my DREAMS here in good ol' Grantsville. It was at the home across the street from the drug store...my DREAM home...so I new it would be good. Look at this big old milk can....I have been looking for one of these FOREVAH! I've found new ones online for $60 but I wanted the real deal so I couldn't part with this one once I found it. Then I found these old yoke's. Aren't they cool. I'll save them for when I finish the basement....someday. We're planning on a western theme.

Finally this vintage clothes drier. You hang it on the wall and the rungs point out for hanging delicate items. It will be perfect for my laundry room.

Robbie suggested I sell the clothes drier on ebay (they are selling from $85-$150) but when will I ever come across one of these again?

Robbie also thought I would restore these items to make them as good as new but I said, 'NO WAY!' I love them as they are. How much for all these items....$40. $40 for a pile of junk to some and for a treasure to me.

My 2nd Grader

2010-08-24T19:31:00.001-07:00

Growing.....

Ok, you can stop now!

I just LOVE this guy!

One step forward, two steps back

2010-08-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

Cleaned out the laundry room today.....
..... but created a whole other mess in the process.

I love my sweetie

2010-08-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

What a sweet little message left for me by my hubby the other morning made out of fruity pebbles. He is such a keeper.

Boating 2010

2010-08-07T16:08:00.001-07:00

I sure wish we had a boat.......We DO have an awesome friend who let us borrow his for a day. We took it to Utah Lake for a day of FUN in the SUN. I was scared to death on this tube. I am not much of a risk taker. Rocky was scared too. See how he clung to me.
I got a lesson in driving a boat too, how else would Robbie get a turn to ride.

I was laughing hysterically when he rode with Sawyer. If you have ever seen the spongebob movie with David Hasselhoff you would have been too. Sawyer looked just like Spongebob clinging to his back! LOL

We did some swimming (when I say "we" I mean Robbie and the kids). I stayed in the boat.

Rocky didn't like it all that well.

These are my favorite shots, with the wind in our hair. Canyon's is the BEST! LOL

It was a GREAT day. LOVED it!

2010-07-21T18:12:00.000-07:00

When I seen this scrap pile of wood I had a vision...........of a headboard.So in this windy, 90 degree weather, I moved......

measured......
cut and created a rustic headboard for Canyons room.

Oooooh, rusty nails. SCORE! Everything looks better with a little rust if you ask me.

I built this baby the old fashioned way. It's not completely finished so I will have a reveal when the room is finished.

Life is a big canvas, throw all the paint on it you can.

2010-07-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

I've been busy lately. I bought one gallon of paint (I should have known better) and that has led to two, three, and four. But soon I will have some projects to share with you.

and.....

My love/hate relationship with the chickens is at a hate right now. We have three roosters and two hens and I would really just like one of each so if you'd like any...they are FREE.

This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.

2010-07-04T11:10:00.000-07:00

We had a GREAT 4th of July celebration this year. The weather was perfect-not too hot, my kids were a little older-no temper tantrums, and my hubby gets Monday off since the holiday landed on a weekend. I got this picture in front of Grandma A's house before the parade. We were missing Brittany and Hunter darn it! They all looked so cute in their patriotic outfits.

It was Anderson tradition to watch the parade from the Drug Store and we hadn't done that since Canyon was born so we decided to do that this year. It was lots of fun. They were all ready with their baggies to gather all their candy.

My nephew Tiger is visiting this summer from Dallas, Texas. There's nothing like a small town parade.

Sawyer's alter ego, Spiderman, came through. I think he thought the parade was for him, like in the movie. Here he is spraying his webs at the camera.

Good thing Daddy is strong and can toss him in the air. He LOVES it!

Rocky left with what he came for....a whole lotta CANDY! ....in a prescription bag! LOL

We almost didn't go to the park but I am so glad we did. It wasn't horribly crowded and the boys loved all the bouncy slides. I didn't take ANY pics. Some moments just aren't as gratifying through the lens of a camera.

All the grandsons.....6 of which live with me or next door. I cannot imagine what it will be like in another 5 years! All I know is there WILL be trouble.

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

And I'm proud to be an AMERICAN,

where at least I know I'm free.

And I won't forget the men who died,

who gave that right to me.

I'm in Heaven

2010-05-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

Here is my sad, tiny, old, little fridge. I've begged Robbie for years to get a new one but this one was funtioning so the answer was "no". I'm afraid I would be using this fridge for years to come and with growing boys to feed I NEEDED an upgrade sooooooo...........

I surprised my sweet husband with THIS!!! I wouldn't recommend making big purchases like this without husband approval in most cases but THIS was a NECESSITY!

I hear ANGELS singing when I open the doors.

This was the selling feature right here.

My life is almost complete. My kids are healthy, I have my new fridge, now all I need is a Sgt. Steam.

It doesn't take much

2010-05-27T12:59:00.001-07:00

It doesn't take much.... just some polka dot ribbon.....
to make me happy.

Third times a charm....I hope.

2010-05-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

I have a serious illness, I paint...and paint...and paint. Maybe you remember this project from a few months ago. Well, I decided that I didn't love the red. I thought it was just too dark. So yesterday I painted it this bright red and put new silver hardware on it. But I just didn't LOVE it so this morning.......

I painted it again!!! I had some "heirloom white" spray paint that I had used from another project (which I will post about later) and some left over pretty green paint from years ago. I think I LOVE it.

It drives my mom AND husband crazy that I am constantly thinking "PAINT". But hey, there are much worse things right? And paint is cheap!

If I can MAKE it there, I'll make it ANYWHERE...

2010-05-10T11:52:00.000-07:00

Last week was Grantsville's famous production of the First Grade Circus! I had been waiting 7 years to see my sweetest Canyon take the stage at this Greatest Show On Earth! He was a MAGNIFICENT MUSCLEMAN! Here he is warming up at home before we left for the first performance.
We went with a RODEO clown costume.....super cheap and easy, just how I like it.
Isn't he a doll?!

Max, Laramie, and Canyon at the night performance.

This was the best pic I could get from the top of the bleachers. Canyon's the one in blue. Robbie said he was the only one who could do a REAL push up. I guess that's because Robbie's been teaching him since he was 2!!! The best was his grimacing face and and shaky arms as he lifted those weights.

Warning...My Dog Can't Hold His Licker

2010-04-22T18:07:00.000-07:00

This is Willie. He used to be our dog until my dad started feeding him table scraps a couple doors down and he never came home again. Willie is a bad influence on our new dog Hoser. Every chance he gets he lures Hoser into going on down to the end of the field to chase varmints and swim in the ponds.

Here is Hoser when he returned this evening..........

Bad, BAD DOG!

He got one heavy scolding........

...and then tried to hide because he knew what was coming.

Don't let that puppy dog face pull at your heartstrings, he is in the Dog House! GRRR!

The Greatest Gift

2010-04-01T08:29:00.001-07:00

Something that made me laugh

2010-04-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Don't Squat With Your Spurs On

2010-03-07T20:23:00.000-08:00

$500 WANTED $500

to come home for dinner

Canyon "BUCKSHOT" Palmer This drifter's been known to roam everywhere except near a kitchen table. Those lookin' to catch this bandit will have their work cut out for them, he travels quickly with his gang of outlaws.

WARNING Shows no mercy to his opponents at video games.

$500 WANTED $500

for emptying the cookie jar

Rocky "SUGAR TOOTH" Palmer

Banks and Stagecoaches have no need to worry because this outlaws loot is measured in donuts. Don't let that sweet smile fool y'all, he's already had his treat for the day.

WARNING He will fight to the bitter end for the last jelly bean.

$500 WANTED $500

for just about everything

Sawyer "THE MENACE" Palmer

If your Mother's told you not to do it, this Menace has done it. You can tell by his expression that he is lookin' for trouble. If you've lost something, he knows where it is....but he's not telling.

WARNING Approach With Caution

You may catch glimpses of these "rubble doubles" playing in their new Western Sherriffs Hut. Hats off to my wonderful husband who built this in TWO WEEKS. What a GREAT Dad!

Still to come....a Western Saloon. Root Beer served. I'm thinking of naming it either "The Long Branch" or "Big Thunder Saloon." What do you think?

You don't marry someone you can live with, you marry the person you cannot live without

2010-02-22T20:29:00.000-08:00

There once was a girl who fell in love with a GREAT guy.

The guy left.....the girl did NOT think it was funny.

She cried......

but as least she had her chocolate milk.

But one day, to everyone's surprise, the boy returned and a date was set.

They married....

and had 3 beautiful little boys.

Canyon

Rocky

Sawyer

Happy 8th Anniversary Sweetie. xoxo

The key to everything is patience. You get the chicken by hatching the egg, not by smashing it.

2010-01-28T10:01:00.000-08:00

Some of you may know that we have chickens. Some of you may also know that I do not care for them very much. Robbie likes to let the birds run free with the wind. You may have seen them at Maverick occasionally. But they sure do make a terrible mess. Pooping, Digging, MOLTING!

But every now and then I find a soft spot in my heart for these creatures. They truly love you! When they see me comin' they come a runnin'. I'll throw them some dried bread or some leftover corn, it makes their day. They're like little children.

So as I pondered their fate this morning I decided MY attitude needed changing. I need to nurture these birds for they provide me with fresh eggs daily...and I don't feel quite as bad for my lack of food storage.

I feel like I am a farm girl at heart...why not become one?

"There are two spiritual dangers in not owning a farm. One is the danger of supposing that breakfast comes from the grocery, and the other that heat comes from the furnace."

-Aldo Leopold

Book Quote Monday

2010-01-25T12:21:00.000-08:00

"Not to be a nag here, but I'll bet your kids get eye exams, dental checkups, orthotic shoes, and fruity cartoon character vitamins. Meanwhile, you schlep along with a loose filling, last decade's glasses, dilapidated tennis shoes, and throat lozenges so gummy they have to be scraped off the wrapper with a knife.

Is that any way to treat a queen?"

-Queen of the Castle by Lynn Bowen Walker

Christmas 09

2010-01-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

Mental note for next year: More pictures and less video.

Then and Now

2010-01-08T15:52:00.000-08:00

THEN NOW

Cookies are made of butter and love

2010-01-08T15:40:00.000-08:00

Christmas is the only time of year that I actually go the extra mile and make sugar cookies, which is probably a good thing because they don't last very long in my household. Canyon was a super helper. I would roll out the dough and then he would cut them out.

Rocky helped too. He cut out his own little gingerbread man and then gaurded it with his life.

We baked them, frosted them, and ate them. (this is only the first batch)

Stay home. Have fun. Go sledding with the kids.

2010-01-08T15:15:00.000-08:00

The week of Christmas break we decided to 'suit' all up and head out to the field to go sledding. We used Grandpa Mike's jeep to pull the sled. I went first with Rocky and Sawyer. I thought they would get cold and tired of it quickly but they loved it and didn't want to stop. Hoser liked it too, he chased us all the way.

Then the little one's took a ride with daddy.

Robbie took a picture of Rocky during the ride. He was trying to eat the snow that was blowing up in his face.

Last of all Canyon and my nephews, Peyton and Hunter, took a ride. The were disappointed that the jeep wouldn't go any faster on the slick snow but that was fine by me. Safety first.

I was just super grateful that I finally bought some snow bibs this year.

Family Tree

2009-12-22T15:46:00.000-08:00

Since I was able to get a new Christmas tree this year my poor little 'old' tree was sitting lonely and untouched in the basement. So, yesterday after seeing this adorable idea online I had the urge to put up a second Christmas tree. It only cost me $10 to put this tree together because I had all the other supplies already. First I bought $5 worth of ribbon at Wal-Mart and draped it down the tree top to bottom.

Then I spent another $5 at Real Deals and got these cute star pillows for my tree topper.

I copied several random family photos in black and white, matted them on black cardstock and randomly stuck them throughout the tree.

It really looks adorable and was cheap and easy peasy!

Nestled next to the tree is this family heirloom old rocking chair. My Grandmother was rocked in this chair when she was a baby. I love things with a history.

I hope all my friends an family have a very Merry Christmas! I will enjoy the next two days making cookies, preparing my home for the upcoming festivities, and sipping hot cocoa by the tree.

Christmas Q&A

2009-12-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?

How do you pass up chocolate!?! As for Egg Nog....I just can't get past the name. 2. Does Santa wrap the presents or just sit them by the tree?

He wraps them for sure. Opening them is half the fun! I don't put any of my kids presents out until Christmas Eve....bigger impact that way.

3. Colored lights on a tree or white?

I like white. But someday when I do my "CANDY" themed tree I will use colored.

4. Do you hang a mistletoe?

I don't need to, I get plenty of kisses without it.

5. When do you put up your decorations?

The day after Thanksgiving but it is soooo hard to wait.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish?

I really don't have one. Hot Chocolate and Toast I guess.

7. Favorite holiday memory.

Being pulled on a sled behind my Uncle Bob's jeep. So Fun!

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?

In third grade Mrs. Kotromanes (spelling?) told us the tooth fairy wasn't real so I assumed the same about Santa. My mom was not happy.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?

We open pajamas from both grandma's.

10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?

Traditional, red and green, a little bit country.

11. Snow. Love it or dread it?

Love it when I'm inside with nothing to do but watch it fall. Dread it when I'm driving.

12. Can you ice skate?

Yes, I even sneak in a twirl or two.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?

Michael Jackson History CD. I even let out a scream.

14. What's the most important thing about the holidays to you?

Starting our own traditions with my little family.

15. What is your favorite holiday dessert?

Sugar Cookies! I can't stop eating them. It's a good thing they take a lot of work or I'd be in trouble.

16. What tops your tree?

A star. But it's red, Rocky said it should be yellow.

17. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving?

Giving, I wish I could give more.

18. What is your favorite Christmas song?

"The Christmas Song" (chestnuts roasting) by Nat King Cole.

19. Candy Canes. Yuck or Yum?

Yum!

20. Favorite Christmas show?

"Ernest Saves Christmas" I love it!

21. Saddest Christmas song?

"Christmas Shoes" of course.

If you post a Q&A of your own let me know. I will stop by and read it.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2009-12-07T13:26:00.000-08:00

The stockings are hung. Why are there four you ask? There is not another baby...I bought the stockings when I was pregnant with Rocky. We were planning on having two kids at the time and then....SUPRISE!!! Sawyer came along and I wouldn't trade him for the world. The fourth stocking is either mine and Robbie's to share or the dog's, we haven't decided yet. The piano is decorated. Someday I will have a child who can play it much better than his mother...I hope.

The centerpiece is festive. Read the tile without crying, I dare you. I bought it the same day I was complaining about wiping walls.

Shopping is done. Except for my mama. We like to shop together so it's hard to sneak her a gift when she's with me.

Tree is up. My new tree I must say. I love it. It came equipped with lights, twigs, and berries. I tied the bows for it myself and bought a few new decorations to make it complete. I was really proud of it until I seen Kari's tree...hers belongs in a window display.

Now I've got a yummy candle lit, banana bread baking with chocolate chips for Robbie, and Christmas music in the background. It's a wonderful life.

There are no seven wonders of the world in the eyes of a child. There are seven million.

2009-12-07T12:08:00.000-08:00

I just love this time of year. I love the lights, the smells, the music. Even among all of the hustle and bustle, the long lists of things to do, the draining of my bank account...can't forget that, I am still left with a gratedful heart this time of year. Maybe that is because of the miracle this holiday represents. The humble birth of our precious Savior. I am reminded of a book I read a couple of years ago. I found it in a box, I believe it belonged to my dear Aunt Beverly...who always made Christmas extra special, I will never forget. The book is called "Two From Galilee-The Story of Mary and Joseph." 'This is the story of two real people whose lives were touched by God: two people chosen by God to provide and earthly home for His Son.' I think I might pull this book out and read it again this season.

So to kick off the season I loaded my clan and took them uptown to see the Santa Claus parade. This happened a couple of weeks ago but posting it now is better than never, right? One thing that I have noticed as I've loaded pictures for my blog is that as the designated camera woman there are rarely any pictures of me so I'm making a mental note to get Robbie to take the reigns once in a while.

I can't help but shed a tear whenever I stand to salute a flag. Ball games, parades, or at school. I tear up every time. I am just incredibly grateful to live in this country and I am so proud to be an American.

The streets were almost bare for the parade but that allowed us to get some personal attention from good old St. Nick. Lucky us, Mrs. Claus was there too.

What a great Santa he was too. Real beard and everything. When we got home there was another Santa standing across the street waving at cars, he wasn't nearly as believable. Canyon was a bit confused, we had just seen Santa, so I told him it was an imposter.

These are a few of my favorite things....

2009-12-01T06:36:00.000-08:00

1. Listening to my children's prayers.

2. A home cooked meal.

3. Watching my boys play pretend.

4. Miniature peanut butter cups....the perfect balance of peanut butter and
chocolate.

5. A long soak in the tub.

6. Scented candles....especially the one's that make it smell like I've been baking.

7. Hugs from Robbie.

8. Old time music....like from the 40's.

9. Being a mommy.

10. CHRISTMAS!

Poor Baby

2009-11-04T12:59:00.000-08:00

We've been hit! The swine flu has made it's presence known in the Palmer household. My sweet little Rocky is the victim. The rest of us are fine, so far. I've been washing bedding and blankets daily, washing hands constantly, and keeping things clean the best I can while caring for the little guy. A couple more days and I think he'll be as good as new. What a bummer, eh?

When Mama's Happy, Everyone's Happy

2009-10-30T18:52:00.000-07:00

So this week I have had a new ambition.....to turn off the darn T.V. and become a better wife, mother, and homemaker. Yes, much of my blame goes directly to that 56" enormous television that sits in my family room. I turn that thing on and it just sucks me in for the rest of the day. Good heavens, I don't know what I would do without my DVR!!! It's almost as bad as my addiction to PEPSI(which I am just not ready to give up yet). I really need to limit my recordings to General Hospital, Dr. Phil, Oprah, Dancing With the Stars, Biggest Loser.....STOP, STOP, STOP! That is only half of my recordings list! You can see that this has gotten out of hand. Now instead of going directly for the remote each morning I am going to turn on some good music-Micheal Buble is my current favorite-and get started doing something productive. I know this will make my life easier which will make my family's life easier. I cannot create the atmosphere I desire in my home if my attention is on things that really don't matter. It has been a couple of days since this new mindset set in and so far so good. I've been playing games with my kids, doing puzzles, reading, and my kitchen has stayed clean...which is a miracle!

If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands?

2009-10-30T18:19:00.000-07:00

So, in my efforts to become a better housewife, I woke up this morning and made blueberry muffins.....right out of the box. Unfortunately, I should have allowed myself an extra 1/2 hour because we were racing out the door to make it in time for preschool. They must have been good because here is all that was left. My day didn't stop there, since I am also trying to be thrifty I decided to start a little craft project. Is it illegal to recreate crafts you see at, lets say, Quilted Bear? Well, I did this little project for $0 because I had all the supplies I needed at home. First I asked Robbie to cut three blocks of 2x4 to my desired lengths from a piece of scap wood.

Canyon was very helpful. He sanded the wood with me to make it smooth so we wouldn't get any slivers.

Then he helped me paint just the front of the blocks. I'm really not sure how his dad would feel about his involvement in making "crafts" but his interest stopped here so there is no need to worry.

Then I printed off the words I was to paint onto the blocks. I cut these letters out so I could trace them onto the blocks. That took some time......

.....but not as long as it took to hand paint the letters. After I painted on the words I sanded over the entire thing to rough it up.

I painted a little saltbox house on the small block and stack them like this. I thought they turned out perfect. Now I just need to find the perfect place to display them.

My next project is to do something with this old wash tin I found out in the field. Any suggestions?

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman

2009-10-30T18:06:00.000-07:00

We all know Spiderman's true identity now.....ITS ROCKY!!! Today he had his preschool Halloween party and here are him and Maggie in their little parade they had for the mommy's and daddy's. I'm not sure why he's not wearing his mask, it's probably best.....he probably would have tripped trying to see! All of the costumes were adorable. Thank you to Miss LuAnn and Miss Hailey for being such wonderful teachers. There are twenty-five 3 year olds in the class, how they manage it is beyond me. But Rocky is loving every bit of it as long as Maggie is by his side.
After their little parade the children stood on the steps to sing a Halloween song they had been practicing. You can see Rocky and Maggie found a spot right by the front door to stand. They were holding hands...so cute. They are great cousins.

Fall Project #1

2009-10-29T21:42:00.001-07:00

Here is my beloved OLD changing table I found at the DI for only $20. My original plans were to use it as a potting bench out in my yard. I decided to bring it in to protect it from the weather over the fall/winter and found that it fit perfectly in the little nook by the door to our garage. I wasn't a big fan of the wood finish so I decided to paint it red, my favorite color. I like things that look old and worn so I took some sand paper to the corners and edges. I don't really care for the hardware on it but I think it is probably original so I am going to leave it. After all was done I shined it up a bit, added a couple accessories and I think it looks GREAT!

I have a whole list of projects I'd like to accomplish this season including painting my interior doors chocolate brown instead of white. I'm not sure if it will work, what do you think?

Halloween 09

2009-10-29T21:31:00.001-07:00

Yay! It's Halloween! For some reason I just love this holiday. Maybe it's not the holiday I love, maybe it's the season. Life just seems to move slower this time of year. Here is a little peek and my boys costumes this year. Sawyer is my little Charlie Brown. He's not bald, his hair is just so blond that I was able to draw a face on the back of his head.
Canyon wanted to be Indiana Jones this year and Rocky wanted to be Spiderman, AGAIN!

Grandpa Rules!

2009-10-07T13:51:00.000-07:00

Up and ready for the big trip. Grandpa Dean is so nice to take the whole family to Disneyland, we wouldn't have been able to do it otherwise. All the grandkids had matching "My Grandpa Rules" shirts to wear in the airport.Waiting for our flight. I was nerous. Nervous to fly and nervous that my kids would be terrible on the plane. I didn't need to be for either, we made it safely and my kids were angels.
Rocky and Grandpa Dean.

The cutest bunch in the airport.

Disneyland

2009-10-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to finally be at Disneyland and couldn't wait to enter that gate.Rocky, Maggie, Sawyer, and Canyon and Mr. Rabbits house.
Rocky loved the teacups.

But any ride that went inside he kept his eyes shut.

A Day With Canyon

2009-10-07T13:36:00.001-07:00

The best idea we had was to take my mom along for the trip. She was so much help with the kids. Our second day of Disneyland she voluteered to stay in the hotel with Rocky and Sawyer for the first half of the day so we could spend some time with Canyon riding what he wanted to ride. His favorites were Indiana Jones and Star Tours, my two favorites too. Here are Robbie and Canyon in Tarzans Tree House.
The three of us in line for Indiana Jones.

We took Canyon over to California Adventures and rode the Tower of Terror. I have to say this is one of my favorite rides ever. So FuN! Canyon didn't like it too much though. Anything that gives him that tickly feeling in his stomach he doesn't like. We're too cheap to buy the picture so here is a picture of the picture. Canyon doesn't look too happy. The next day a mom was trying to convince her daughter to go on the ride and I told Canyon to tell her he went on it and instead he told her, "Don't listen to them, I hated it, don't do it, you won't like it."

Califonia Adventures

2009-10-07T13:22:00.000-07:00

It was nice to get a break from Disneyland and walk across to California Adventures. It wasn't nearly as busy so we were able to ride much more rides. There faster they spin the better for these guys. And here we were able to find some rides that Rocky could actually enjoy.
They had the cutest parade and we had a front row seat.

Kami's back hurt so she rented a Jazzi. Robbie took this picture to be funny. I think I'll put it in black and white with the Jazzi in color.

Here are me, Sawyer, and Maggie riding the caterpillar.

The Beach

2009-10-07T12:50:00.001-07:00

After our 3 day tour of Disneyland we headed south to San Diego. We made a quick stop at the beach on the way. Canyon really liked this and he and his dad found many sea shells which we brought home. I love the beach and if I could have been more prepared with an umbrella and some beach towels I could have spent the whole day. There were camp sites there and me and Robbie think maybe sometime we'll go back.

All Robbie needs is a tan to go with his smokin' body! He is so modest I just want to give him a hard time. lol

All the dirty, sandy kids. I think it was worth it.

Legoland

2009-10-07T12:30:00.001-07:00

Our first day in San Diego we went to LegoLand and I'm so glad we did because I think it was the hit of the trip for my boys.Everything was constructed out of Legos there, the Las Vegas Strip, New York City, Mt. Rushmore, Washington D.C. ...... This was probably the favorite ride. I call it a mini Tower of Terror. Canyon actually liked this one. There were no lines at LegoLand and so the ride operator let us ride over and over without having to get off.

There were Lego tables everywhere where the kids could play and build too. They would have been happy and content to do this all day.

Final Day in San Diego

2009-10-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you, by Saturday I was exhausted so I don't know how I got out of bed to do this peddle boat ride around our hotel. I guess if there is a chance to get a break from the kids you have to take it. Here is Rick and Randy ahead of us. They were cruisin'. It was beautiful outside with the fog coming off the water and the temperature was perfect. We even seen some wild life on our peddling trip. We peddled under a bridge where this bird was sitting and I caught a picture of him taking flight. The most exciting moment was when a sea lion surfaced in front of us catching a fish. This happened several times and it was pretty cool.

Here is the only picture I took at Sea World. Me and Canyon in a photo booth. In an effort to keep my camera dry I had it tucked away for safe keeping. And my boys had had it with the camera too. We had a blast at the Shamoo show and Sea Lion and Otter show. I am amazed at how smart those whales are.

The Wait is Almost Over

2009-09-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

After two years of waiting we are now down to two days until we leave on our week long trip to DISNEYLAND!!! I am so excited, maybe even more excited than my kids. I have such good memories of going to Disneyland with my family growing up, I hope I can create the same memories with my boys. As hard as I've tried to get my boys to watch some Disney movies to familiarize them with the characters they are just not that into it. They do like 101 Dalmations but if there is a princess involved, No Thank You! They would much rather watch Spiderman, Transformers, and Fantastic Four. They will be celebrating Halloween while we are at Disney too. Hopefully Rocky will not react like he did at Soelberg's with the skeletons hanging from the ceiling. Along with Disneyland we are visiting Sea World and Legoland. It's going to be so much fun. Best of all, we are sharing the trip with the whole Palmer family, and I'm bringing my mom along for some extra help with the kids. That adds up to 12 adults and 8 kids. Get ready Delta airlines and I'm praying the plane doesn't crash and make us Palmer's extinct. (I have a little anxiety about flying.)

Why My Back Hurts

2009-09-17T11:01:00.000-07:00

You can probably guess where Robbie and I sleep. On the very edge!!!

While I'm in the Shower

2009-09-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

In the mornings after breakfast, when the kids are settled down a bit, I try to hop in a quick shower. Quick enough hopefully that they can't get into trouble while I'm gone. Today Sawyer dressed himself while I was away.

Laughed

Sooooo

Hard

and that's just the shoe's. Look at the rest of the outfit.

It Had to Be Done

2009-09-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

I had to do it. Poor Hoser lost his manhood. Robbie has given me much grief about it, he called him his stud dog. It didn't help that EVERYONE has told me what a good looking dog he is, even the lady at the vet's office couldn't believe we were getting him fixed. At least I don't have to worry about him "marking" the house anymore.

He has turned out to be such a good dog. He is very protective of the kids too. When I chase them around the house playing he is ready to take me out like I'm a burglar.

Now if I could keep the kids from letting him out the front door when I'm not watching. I can't tell you how many times people have brought him to my door and chewed me out because he was in the road. I'M SORRY! Robbie was yelled at by a "freakin' PETA lady with a nose ring" (that's what he called her) last night and I was so glad it was him and not me this time.

By the way, if our chickens are in the road just run them over.

Rocky 1st Day of Preschool

2009-09-08T08:32:00.001-07:00

I debated if I was even going to send Rocky to preschool this year. He's only three and I didn't think it was absolutely necessary but after a summer of him being scared to go to nursery, scared to go to swimming lessons, and scared of anything he wasn't completely familiar with I thought he has to get over this, so he is now enrolled in Karma's Kiddie Korner. Here is his first day of school picture. Not too happy about it.
I begged him to look at the camera but he just wouldn't do it.

But soon he decided to be silly

And I was able to get a sweet picture of him.

And when I dropped him off they had the playdough out so he didn't fuss at all when I left him. This turned out much easier than I expected. I am so happy.

What a Week

2009-08-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

So this week has been quite an adjustment. Not only has Canyon been forced to get on a schedule, so have I. No more staying up past midnight watching late night T.V. I have to be up and ready to get Canyon up and ready. Although Canyon has loved school this week, he has been completed exhausted which has caused him to become a BEAR!! He has been very emotional and the littlest things have set him off. Wednesday he was mad at me for something I can't even remember. I told him I didn't want to hear about it anymore and his come back was "WELL, YOU DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW FAR PLUTO IS FROM THE EARTH!!" He really is finding any and all reasons to argue with me.Next week will be the true test when Canyon starts his first week of full days 9-3 and I'll start watching my cutest nephew Ryker-Roo. Hopefully Rocky can be nice since he thinks he's the alpha-male of this household.

First Day of 1st Grade

2009-08-24T07:03:00.001-07:00

Here is Canyon on his first day of preschool. It is so hard for me to believe that he is starting 1st grade today!!! I still consider him one of my babies. Here is his picture today ready for school. He has turned into such a handsome kiddo. He is excited to start school this year. His teacher is Mrs. Painter. Robbie had Mrs. Painter her first year of teaching.
I am so proud of Canyon. He is such a smart, sweet, loving boy. Good Luck with 1st grade!

Project Yard

2009-08-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

So, I have this dream of transforming my backyard into a beautiful yard/garden. Nothing too fancy or formal, more whimsical and natural. There is just soooo much work to do. I'm feeling ambitious though so I'm going to start working every morning to whip this place into shape. I've made a "To Do" list and hopefully by next summer it will be complete.

1. Tarp Under the Rocks

We have a path on the lower level of our yard which leads to a firepit.

Each year the rocks on each side of the path are consumed with morning glory. I've done everything I can to try to beat this nasty weed. I've sprayed them with RoundUp several times, pulled them, burned them, but cannot win the battle.

We even planted myrtle to choke the weed out but as you can see the morning glory would not give in.

So I have been moving the rock by hand and putting down a super thick tarp underneath as a weed barrier. I'm about half-way done and it has been so much work but is so worth it.

2009-08-17T12:23:00.000-07:00

Project Yard continued...

2. Paint the Fence

So the fence has been up for over a year and the posts are still not painted. But hey, give me a break, I've got two toddlers.

3. Clean Out FirepitLovely, isn't it? I have a bad habit of using it as a garbage can. I also nee to till up the ground around it and replant the grass. The ground is so compact right there and the sun just scorches that spot.

4. Clean Up Garden

This picture is from last year when our garden was awesome!! It is wild and unruly this year. With Robbie starting his car detailing business this year we have just been to busy to care for it like we needed too.

5. Paint Potting Bench

I bought this adorable old changing table at the DI to use as my potting bench. I'm not sure how I'll paint it, or if I even will but I think it will look cute on my patio.

No More Training Wheels

2009-07-17T21:53:00.001-07:00

Coming home from Tooele I received a call from Canyon so excited to tell me he was riding his bike without training wheels. I was so shocked because for the past year I have been begging him to try it and he has refused to do it. He just loves his Aunt Brandi and so when SHE suggested the idea he was all for it. Uncle Paul pushed him up and down the driveway and in no time at all he had it down.
This is kind of off topic but it came to mind when I mentioned that Canyon loves his Aunt Brandi. Canyon is a bit of a romantic and says sweet and silly things sometimes. I can't remember the exact conversation but Brandi was joking about getting fired for something and Canyon said to her "Brandi, you'll never be fired from my love." lol

NOT AGAIN!

2009-07-17T21:47:00.001-07:00

I will use this as leverage someday! lol

Picnic at Grandma's

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

Once the rain stopped and summer really began, Grandma Jeannie A. had the kiddos over for a picnic and swimming in her backyard. The boys were so excited to be out and about in their swimming suits.

We used every bit of Grandma's hot water to partially fill up the pool and then filled up the rest with the hose. As you can see by Rocky's expression it was still pretty cold.

The radio was turned up and Canyon and Peyton showed us their best dance moves. It was very entertaining.

Canyon had a ball swimming in my brothers big pool. He loves floating around in his life jacket.

Rocky even convinced Grandma to get in! She's such a good sport.

It was such a fun summer day.

Lagoon 09

2009-07-01T16:16:00.000-07:00

We took the kids to Lagoon this year and we had so much fun. Thanks to Paul and Brandi we only had to buy two tickets so it didn't break the bank for us to go and I could buy one of those delicious corn dogs that are like a mile long.

The first ride we hit were the whales. I thought that would be a good idea because they are one of the mildest rides but this was little Rocky's reaction. He went on many other much faster, higher swinging rides, but the whales were just too much for him. Sawyer was a little daredevil. He did not want to wait in line. He would try to break down the gate to get in. He did have to hold on for dear life on Puff which was hilarious.
Here is a picture of all of us on the train. Paul, Brandi, Ryker, Canyon, and Robbie. Rocky just wanted to see the monkeys and there are no monkeys.

Since I'm such a nice wife I let Robbie go have fun with the boys and ride the more thrilling rides. That's my nephew Peyton with him on the sky ride. Aren't they handsome.

Canyon was so brave. This picture is him getting on the white roller coaster. Does he look a little nervous? He didn't like this one but he rode the bat, spider, and wild mouse with me and thought they were allright. He said he liked that good feeling they gave him in his belly.

Will Fullmer July 15, 1952 - June 9, 2009

2009-06-14T15:45:00.000-07:00

Just two months ago we received some horrible news. My uncle Willie was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Four years ago I lost my dear aunt Bev to breast cancer and two years ago I lost my uncle Tom, Willie's brother, to cancer. It is so painful to lose someone to this horrible disease. Thank you so much to Leeann, I seen a similar tribute on her blog and thought it would be a beatiful gift to create a video for Will's four daughters.

In Loving Memory of Will Fullmer

2009-06-14T15:17:00.000-07:00

Rocky's 3rd Birthday

2009-06-05T09:41:00.001-07:00

Rocky was so excited for his birthday this year.
He opened his present from his brothers first thing. Canyon picked out the Elefun game for him and they played it all morning.
All day he was asking about his spiderman birthday cake. I didn't let him see it until the party because I knew he'd have his fingers in it. (This is mommy's cheap and easy version of a spidey cake.)

All his friends and family came to his party and he got so many fun presents. Thank you everyone.

Where's My Camera

2009-05-30T10:02:00.001-07:00

Canyon likes to sneak off with my camera once in a while but since he supplies me such entertaining pictures he is never in trouble for it.

His new toothless grin.

hehehe!

Interesting angle.

hehehe!

Should I claim him as my son?

Goodbye Tree

2009-05-30T09:54:00.001-07:00

Our only source of shade is now gone. The poor tree died a year ago, we think due to all the digging and construction going on around him. So Robbie's chore Memorial Weekend was to cut it down. I'm relieved he finished the job without injury. It wasn't the prettiest tree but I sure loved the shade it gave us. Thanks Dad for all the help.

Don't Pee in the Window Well!

2009-05-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

Canyon said he didn't hit the window but Rocky did.

Moments later Sawyer was standing at the window well holding his shirt up. I wish I had the camera ready. He's learning so much.

Nice Hair

2009-05-13T18:05:00.000-07:00

My little blondie.
What a goof.

Palmer Cousin Photo Shoot

2009-05-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

Grandma Jeanie P. bought the grandkids the cutest Easter outfits this year so we had to have a photo shoot.

Baby Shower

2009-04-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

Went to Applebee's for Belinda's baby shower today. Had a good time. It was good to see a few girls I hadn't seen for awhile. Belinda is due in August.

While I was at the Shower the boys were building this.

Titmus Farm

2009-04-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

We made a trip out to Titmus' farm to see the baby goats. Reghan loved them. Sawyer was scared of them. Canyon and Rocky wanted to go home. They really were cute and for a second I wanted one but that only lasted a second.

Movie Night

2009-04-10T14:39:00.001-07:00

For Canyon's birthday this year he decided he would like to have some friends over for movie night. You would think that after the halloween party I would have learned my lesson. It was a wild and crazy night to say the least.

After everyone arrived we were off to Maverick for drinks.

We all settled down with our popcorn and drinks to enjoy the movie.

It wasn't long before movie night turned into Monday Night Nitro.

Twilight

2009-03-23T08:38:00.000-07:00

I've read Twilight, I've read New Moon, I need to start on Eclipse. I know if I pick the book up I will not put it down so I have to clean my house first. After reading New Moon I turned into a Jacob girl. Is that weird? Am I the only one? Anyway, I watched the movie last night, Robbie even watched it with me, and my feelings toward Edward are renewed so now I am so confused. I'm anxious to start reading. What would I do without the exciting drama from these books, General Hospital, and a nice cold Pepsi-I'm still an addict.

Bowling for G-ma's Birthday!

2009-03-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

This month we went bowling for Grandma Jeanie P.'s birthday. It was a lot of fun. My score wasn't so hot. I think I beat Robbie though.

Sawyer thought it was fun.

Strike a pose Tailor! She is so cute!

Canyon rolls the ball on his own now. It takes a while to get down the lane. (My action shots are a little blurry.)
The boys loved playing in the arcade. You should have heard Rocky laugh when he hit the crocodiles. It was so cute.
Canyon took some pictures of his own.

My First Tag!!

2009-02-23T16:05:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2007

6th folder, 6th picture

Tag anyone who sees this.

SAWYER!!!!

2009-02-20T19:58:00.000-08:00

Oh, not this sweet little thing.

More trouble from Sawyer:

-More dog food in the vent.

-Fry sauce and horseradish squeezed onto the floor.

-Dumped the box of Cream of Wheat on the floor.

-Threw his plate full of dinner onto the floor.

-Dumped Rocky's root beer on the table.

-Ruined a whole loaf of bread.

-Bit the tips off the markers.

I promise I watch my kids. This stuff happens in a matter of minutes. When I'm getting Rocky dressed or fixing Canyon's hair. Putting clothes in the washer or making the bed.

Lost Tooth

2009-02-20T19:52:00.000-08:00

Canyon pulled tooth number three tonight. I can already see the tip of the new tooth barely poking through. Isn't it hilarious when little kids get their big teeth. They look so out of place in their tiny mouths.

Sawyer is now known as Dennis the Menace

2009-02-19T08:03:00.001-08:00

Some of the trouble Sawyer has got into this week. Well, he's too cute to be in trouble. He fed the dog. He even put the bib on him.

He helped himself to a cinnamon roll. He put the bib on himself, inside out and backwards.

Dog food in the vent.

Fritos in the vent.

Canyon's Cool Pictures

2009-02-09T13:18:00.001-08:00

Canyon thought he was so cool posing for these pictures. What a nerd.

5 Year Old After The Dentist

2009-02-09T13:10:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago Canyon had some work done at the dentist. These pictures crack me up. I asked him if his mouth felt numb and he told me NO. Here he is smiling for the camera.

What an Artist!

2009-01-21T11:17:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know, Canyon is a comic book and video game junkie. His dream in life is to be a comic book illustrator. Anyway, the other night he was in his room for hours and I thought, "What could he be doing in there?" Well, he had drawn a collection of spiderman comic book characters. Here are just a few of them. Venom, Spiderman, Rhino, Green Goblin, and Carnage.

Hoser's New Do

2009-01-18T13:36:00.000-08:00

No hairspray in the world could hold that baby into place.

One Sunday After Church

2009-01-18T13:11:00.001-08:00

One Sunday after church I took some pics of my boys because I thought they looked so cute.

Sawyer wasn't that into it.

Canyon is always ready for the camera.

This is the best picture I have ever got of Rocky.

He never smiles or even wants to look at the camera.

Annual Anderson Christmas Eve Party

2008-12-28T17:26:00.000-08:00

The theme for this years annual Christmas Eve party was "Redneck." Everyone dressed up and just had a blast. Robbie's costume really was the best. Just look at his shorts. The food was served off an ironing board in cool whip containers and coffee cans. We all took redneck gifts. I made earrings out of tree car fresheners, Robbie took a jar of beans and called it "Redneck Bubble Bath." There are so many silly pictures to post but I don't want to embarrass anyone.

The Eve of Christmas Eve

2008-12-28T17:18:00.000-08:00

The night before Christmas Eve we went to Casa with the Palmer's for dinner. After that we went over to Grandma and Grandpa's house and had a fun time. We played games, the kids dressed up for a nativity scene, and we had some yummy dessert.

I Have A Biter

2008-12-18T10:36:00.000-08:00

Poor little Rocky gets the brunt of everything. Either Canyon is picking on him or Sawyer won't leave him alone. Last week I noticed these little red scabbed spots on his back and I asked him what happened. He said "Soyo" did it. I didn't think it looked like anything Sawyer could do so I figured the cat had clawed him or something. Later that day I witnessed Sawyer latching onto Rocky's back, pulling him in close, and biting him. This morning Rocky was bitten again on the arm over a fight with the Cocoa Pebbles. How can I stop this? Canyon went through a biting stage when he was almost three, he had several time outs and finally I just bit him back. Not hard enough to break skin, just hard enough that he realized it didn't feel good. He never bit again after that. But Sawyer is only one and so I don't know how to make him understand that he can't do that. The little stinker. He is my Dennis the Menace.