Eric and LaDawna

Whats going on in my bedroom?

2012-02-03T16:27:00.007-07:00

So the other day I decided my head board gets lost up against my wall because it's almost the same color, so I added some stripes. This has been fun for me. I think it made tons of difference. I bought lamps last weekend. Having lamps has been something I have always wanted. (I think since I was a little girl.)

Last spring I painted my room and painted all the trim white instead of the stained trim it had been. I added the birds just for fun. I love my birds hanging out on top of the doors. They make me happy! Eric said "I don't understand it, but I know you like it." What a good husband.

Once I added the stripes I had another dilemma "what am I going to put over my bed?" Right after we went to sleep, in fact I might have fallen asleep for just a minute, I remembered the old trim that I'd been keeping (for over six years now) and knew they would be perfect. I sat straight up in bed and said " I know what I'm putting up there." That woke Eric up and he couldn't understand what the heck I was saying.

Needless to say I love my room!

Miss Tesa Marie

2012-01-17T14:00:00.004-07:00

It is still amazing to me, the birth of a child. Some one you think of, dream of, pray for, and try to feel in the months leading up to their birth. Then when the time is right there they are with their own look, their own personality, their own little self.

Well Tesa Grandma loves you! I think you are beautiful, I think you are a gift to me and grandpa as well as your mom, dad, brother and sister. I think you are soft and patient. I am just getting to know you so as time goes by I hope we spend lots of time laughing loud, playing hard, and even being still. I hope I listen to your dreams and help you become everything you might want to be. I hope you'll always know that grandma loves you and thinks you can be whatever you want to be.

Christmas!

2012-01-04T16:38:00.009-07:00

Christmas was so much fun and a event that I looked forward to all December, Every one was coming home, (all except Matt and Jenny and their family). I love spending time with my kids, love the noise of the house, love the banter that goes on between them. Love the laughter. Love the "remember" stories. Love my kids. Love that cute grandson Nixon that I don't see enough of. I've been so homesick for all of them.

Nick, Erica and Nixon helped me with the Nativity. Eric got the barn ready so we could have our Christmas story in the barn. It was cold, but nice to take a few minutes and remember what Christmas is all about. We are so blessed.

A New Grandson!

2011-10-03T17:17:00.003-06:00

First of all I'm trying to play catch up so even though this old news I wanted to write my feelings down about the whole thing. Baby Nixon Grandma loves you! I loved you from the moment I knew you where on your way. Before I knew you where a boy or a girl. Now you are here I can't get enough of you. The night you were being born I hardly slept. When momma called and told us you were here I couldn't wait to get you in my arms. It wasn't very long after you were born grandma was at the hospital to snug you in her arms and cover you with kisses. Nixon you are so beautiful, just perfect! I never had a baby with much hair so of course I love your hair and can hardly believe how much you have.

This is one of grandpas favorite ways to hold a baby. That's how he would hold your momma when she was little like you. Grandpa thinks your pretty great too.

I love you grandson, I'm so glad you are mine.

I Loved This Vacation!

2011-02-11T15:31:00.001-07:00

So Eric booked us a cruise just two and a half weeks before we needed to be there! This was so much fun. We were lucky enough to have Jessica and Steven go with us. It was so nice and warm and we did so many fun things. Zip lines, Kayaking, and one of my bucket list things, swim with the dolphins!!!! I got to hold on to him and he took me for a swim around the pool. Soooo much fun! We woke up to beautiful sunrises and could set out on our little deck any time we wanted.

Steve and Jessica roomed right next door so we had fun seeing them too.

Look how warm. This was truly a wonderful trip. I dream that I'm still there, I've never done that before. I wish everyone in my family could have gone. It was fun that Steven could speak Spanish. I'm kinda all over the place with my thoughts. We ate too much. (so good though) The best thing is spending all that time with my sweetheart. Eric and I had such a good time.

Happy Birthday to You!

2011-01-07T17:12:00.000-07:00

My Dear Erica,
I hope this day has been filled with happiness and joy. I'm so grateful to have you as a daughter. Thank you for being such a good kid and for all your helpfulness. It has been so nice to have you as my oldest girl. Time goes by so fast, it seems like just a while ago we were following you around cheering at games and events. How I've loved being your mother. You make your dad and I so proud with the choices you make and the life that you are living. I'm so very happy about a new grand baby. I can't wait for you and Nick to feel and love all the things that go along with a baby. I have such wonderful memories of starting my family. You kids mean the world to your dad and me. I love you and hope all your birthdays are happy ones! Thank you for being so grateful I think it is one of your best qualities. You'll be such a good mommy.

Tis The Season

2010-12-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

Twas the night before Christmas...

The twice baked potatoes, bacon water chestnuts, PJ elf, puzzles, and stories. A surprise phone call from Erica lets the kids know they are going to have a new niece or nephew. We have lots of fun, even if it seem like were missing someone all night.

Christmas morning, 7:30? It's about time. Tara gets to go first because she never gets to. Every one opens presents one at a time. The house is quiet and orderly. We have a wonderful Christmas, lots of love, lots of gratitude, just not lots of kids.

I'm so grateful for the birth of Christ, so grateful for what that means to me in my life. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good life.

Turkey Triathlon

2010-11-15T14:03:00.000-07:00

Swimming!

Biking!

Running!

In the past few months Jen and Jessica have been getting ready to do the Turkey Triathlon, Steven thought it sounded like fun so pretty soon he was talking Jeremy into racing with him. Jeremy is in pretty good shape since he just finished cross-country. I was a little nervous about the swimming, I'm not sure how much swimming Steve or Jeremy had done. The race is eight lengths of the pool, a five mile bike ride, and running a mile and a half. Eric and I had so much fun watching the race and thought everyone did so good. Steven was only passed by one person and that was Jeremy. As Jeremy passed he thought he heard his brother call him a punk! When every thing was over Jeremy won over all and Steven came in third for the men, forth over all. (a girl beat him) I'm just saying. Jen and Jessica had a super race, I'm pretty proud of all of them.

TRICK or TREAT!

2010-11-01T18:44:00.001-06:00

It was so fun to have Matt, Jenny, Trace, and Maddie come visit us for Halloween. They sure made cute Jack O' Lanterns! Trace even pick out pumpkins for his family, notice he has the big one. Trace drew his face and his dad helped carve it out.

I'm glad I have Jeremy home still. He'll carve pumpkins with me. Maddie's pumpkin is cute and little just like her. She even shared a few smarties with her Jack O' Lantern. She was pretty scared of the pumpkin guts.

Look at the cute dragon and dinosaur that showed up just in time to go Trick or Treating. It was so much fun to have my kids and grand kids home for Halloween.

Our Fall Weekend

2010-10-04T13:47:00.000-06:00

Saturday afternoon during Conference we drove up Cedar Mountain to see what we could see while listening to words of wisdom from our leaders. Steven and Jessica had come to spend the weekend with us, so it was nice to get away and spend time with them. Cedar Mountain has always been one of my most favorite places, but as you know the last few years has been hard on the old gal. We still found her beauty as we drove her back roads we felt like we was visiting an old friend. Of course she is an old friend, for years we took children to her sturdy log. There it was again our trusty log. Soon we had perched Jessica up on it for the first time.

Our family picture has dwindled to just the three of us, Eric, me, and Jeremy.

Sunday between sessions we ran to the reservoir to cook our lunch, tin foil dinners. As you can see Kenni and Latara came home late on Saturdays to be with us. We had such a good time just spending some time together.

Cross Country

2010-09-30T11:20:00.000-06:00

I'm so pleased with Jeremy. He has been running Cross Country for a couple of years now. I thought it would be fun to post a few pictures of him. This is from his race yesterday in LaVerkin. Jeremy came in eighth. Jeremy had a great race even though it was hot, right around a hundred degrees. Good job Bear! It was so fun to have Grandma Darrington, Aunt Maridee, cousins, and sisters there to watch.

Happy Fall

2010-09-30T11:01:00.000-06:00

This is for you Erica. I love the way Fall and Halloween feels.

I Want you to Know

2010-09-26T12:45:00.000-06:00

It's Sunday and I feel like I've been so blessed to feel my Heavenly Fathers spirit with me today. I know he loves us. I know that his son Jesus Christ loves us and died for us. I know that through him and by him we can be forgiven of things in our lives. I also know and have felt his healing power in my own personal life. I've felt his arm of strength when I'm not sure what to do, how to feel, or scared and disappointed. Always I know of his love for me, LaDawna. He knows all that I am good and bad, and that he still cheers for me to come unto him. My life is full of joy and happiness. First the blessing of a great man that loves me. If it wasn't for any other reason than that I would know that I had a loving Heavenly Father. My love and joy is multiplied with every baby I was able to have. With every new daughter and son that married into our family. Endless joy has been given to me as I've watch both a grandson and a granddaughter come into this world. This is for you I want you to know that I know these things with everything that I am. I hope each of you know in your hearts and minds that you have been blessed with that same love and strength.
With all my love always,
Mom

I love being a Grandma!

2010-09-24T10:01:00.000-06:00

Trace spent the weekend with me! we had so much fun. It might be because Latara didn't stick around (Trace likes me more if Latara isn't around) Grandpa and I went to Saddie and Levi's Talk like a pirate party and took Trace with us. Trace makes me laugh he is so much fun. Right before he went home he wanted pictures of everyone pulling faces, so here we are.

Our Summer Project

2010-08-30T12:28:00.002-06:00

So Eric and I have always said some day were going to do something with the sleep room or screen room which ever name you knew it by. To me it was the catch all for everything that didn't need to be inside, rakes, shovels, sleds, outside chairs, lawn food and other miscellaneous items. Really it is the little screen room out back that Eric's Grandma Pickering slept in during the summer. I'd looked at some windows but other than that we didn't have a clue as to where to begin. So one night I asked Royd what we needed, This was the beginning of a quick summer project. Royd was all over that. He had the tools, the know how and for that matter some of the building supplies. It turned out so nice. Now we have another place to put our family when they come home.

BEFORE

AFTER

I think it is so cute, when you sleep out there you feel like your sleeping out side only no bugs! Eric and I take our Sunday afternoon naps out there.

Royd was so much help and such a good sport, Thanks Royd I love it.

This will be so much cheaper!

2010-08-22T16:38:00.005-06:00

So as everyone knows my hair is soooo gray. I'm too young to just let it go, so I've been at the Mercy of my hair stylist. First of all, I want you to know how much I love the girl that colors my hair, and she has always did it for a big discount. I go gray pretty fast and I stay gray for a long time because of the money thing. Well this last week I colored my hair by myself. Natalie was going to help me, but I put it off until she was back to work so I was on my own. I was thrilled when I purchased my hair color because it was about a forth of the cost of what I'd had to pay to have it done. I'm thinking this is going to be a bargain. Well that was before I started. The first dilemma was I found myself with one glove on and one glove off, thus one hand was stained a soft brown color that didn't match the other hand. Then I discovered my t shirt was covered with the same before noted brown color. Also the bathroom rug has a nice set of same color drips running through the middle of it. I found my hair darker than I had expected, but the color was even. As I inspected the new image looking back at me from my mirror I noticed I had little splatters of brown now decorating my bathroom walls, mirror and shower curtain. This had turned into an adventure. I'm not sure I was the winner.

Just a drink of water!

2010-08-20T14:15:00.003-06:00

I love summer. I love being outside. I love my garden. I just wanted to remember this simple pleasure of summer. The other day while I was out with my friends, the flowers. I was so thirsty I looked down at that hose with all that water spilling out and thought why not? I don't know why I even had to think about it, maybe it's because we grow up and we see things like the water has to run through that rubber hose. Or maybe we've gotten where we just drink water from a bottle. Maybe all the water in our house has been filtered. What ever the case, I put the hose up to my mouth and felt the cool clean water rush past my lips, I loved it. No kidding I had forgotten the simple joy of drinking out of a hose. I said to myself as I brushed the excess water from my face with the back of my hand, "I'm not ever going to forget how much I love to drink out of the hose!"

Oh what do you do in the Summer time?

2010-07-31T16:04:00.008-06:00

Summer while not over with is showing signs of coming to an end. I love summer and have enjoyed this summer as much or more than other summers. I loved spending time on the mountain with family and friends. I spent a Saturday afternoon at Ely watching the boys race. Loved having the kids home for the 24th of July. Shared a few days with my mother and all my sisters visiting Mom's brother and sisters. Then this last week Trace spent the week with us and we went to Veyo pool everyday. "That was pretty fun" as Trace would say.

Even though there is a story in every adventure I'll just keep it short. I do want to remember, how much love I feel for my kids, how much I love being part of my sisters and mothers life, how nice it is to know your Uncles and Aunts, the joy and nervousness I feel when watching my kids race, and the sound of Trace laughter echoing off the water. I dont want to forget that I'm blessed, that all this and more brings joy and happiness to my life.

UP UP and Away!

2010-07-06T08:51:00.001-06:00

What a fun thing to do! I got to ride in a Hot air Balloon! Thank you Nick and Erica! We went to the balloon fest in Panguitch the last weekend in June. On Saturday morning early we went out and helped set up the balloon Wild Thing. When they took her up I was in the basket. This was such a fun thing for me I had a awesome ride, flying higher than all the balloons that were there that morning. The morning was still and quiet. We hardly drifted at all, but the view was unreal. Latara and Koy went up in another balloon that they had helped with. When everything was done Nick, Erica and Jeremy had not gotten to go for rides. They went up the next day. Eric went with them. I felt like this was a chance in a life time.

Happy Birthday to you!

2010-06-03T14:06:00.003-06:00

Today is my Birthday and I've spent most of the day hoping that Steven was having a good day. When I turned 26 I received the neatest Birthday present I could have ever wished for, Steven Tyler Pickering! So Steven Happy Birthday! I love you so much and hope you are having a great day. Thanks for being mine. I sure love you. MOM

Hiking Cave Lake

2010-06-01T16:23:00.006-06:00

I love my family! We had so much fun this last Monday. We spent the day at a little place called Cave Lake. The day started off cloudy and cool, but by the time we were ready to play it was perfect. The lake was the perfect place to skip a few rocks. Everyone tried a few. Trace thought the big ones did the best, at least they made the best splash! We cooked some hot dogs, had chips, fruit salad, and ate a pan of brownies.
After we let our food settle we were off on our hike. Now at the time I didn't think a thing about our choice of hikes. That thought won't come to me until the middle of the night when I can't sleep. When the thought of dragging Maddie and Trace up and across the side of a steep mountain wakes me up. Even though I laid awake contemplating the "what ifs" I still come to the same conclusion, I'd do it again.
We hiked up the side of the mountain to a small cave at the top. The cave wasn't much of a cave, just a dent in the mountain. As we made our way down We realised just how steep this hike was. Knocking rocks down, sliding on our bums, and trying to stay right side up as we worked our way to the bottom.
We just needed to work our way around the edge of the lake and we'd be back on flat ground. OK, so I lost my balance and fell in the lake! It was so funny, I'm sure I looked hilarious as I fell. Arms flying around like they'd do me some good. The lake was so cold it took my breath away! As I turn around I look up into the faces of my adoring children and this is more or less what I see. Jenny, trying so hard not to laugh, but waiting to bust up just as soon as she can get the OK. Eric, he took a "I'll wait and see if she needs anything approach". Erica, was actually coming to my rescue. Nick, was looking at Erica to see if she might end up with my same fate. Trace was concerned and a little scared for me. He just wanted me to get dry clothes on. I glance toward Matt and Latara just in time to see them both set down on there butts laughing. I glance back at Steven and Jessica, It was just in time to see Steve shaking his head slowly back and forth as if to say no. Really I'm sure what he meant was only you'd fall in the lake mom! I put them all out there misery when I bust out a laugh that echoed off the side of the mountain.
As we headed back I could tell as we passed the people fishing that they had seen (or heard) the whole thing

Erica's story click here

Kenni K 2010

2010-05-28T10:30:00.006-06:00

Congradulations! My little Kenni is getting all grown up. I've looked the other way, put my thumb on her, made her report if plans change, and all the other things I could think of to keep Kenni just my little girl. Now here it is right in my face "look mom I'm big enough to graduate!" I wouldn't want it any other way, but dang my house is going to be quiet!

Your just so little!

Kenni I love you. Thanks for being such a good girl. I hope life is ready for you. I know your ready for everything life has for you. Remember you are loved!

Another Year Older!

2010-05-11T12:22:00.004-06:00

Well all I can say is "Happy Birthday to all of you!" Since Maddie's Birthday we have had one celebration after another. Trace turned 3 on April 15th, Eric on April 17th, Latara turned 21 on April 18th, Koy had a birthday and turned 15, Jeremy turned sweet 16 on the 30th. Shaynae had a birthday on the 5th of May and is 17. Today Kenni turns 18

Thanks Aunt Marvene for the group cake and sign! Kenni was sick of me trying to get a good picture.

Happy Birthday Maddie!

2010-03-26T16:14:00.006-06:00

Miss Maddie just turned 1! I can't believe how fast time goes by. Last weekend we went to the ranch to celebrate Maddie's Birthday. She had cute invitations, plates with her picture on them, and a big cupcake cake! After cake and ice cream Maddie opened her gifts. Grandma and Grandpa Huntsman gave her a cute baby doll that Maddie knew just how to take care of. I was so surprised to see her feed the baby it's bottle (making the sucking sounds) and use the burp clothe to wipe the dolls face.

We had so much fun celebrating her birthday. My heart is so happy that we have her in our lives. She is such a sweetheart with her cute smile and her gorgeous big blue eyes. She is sweet.

Happy Birthday Maddie grandma loves you.

Spring?

2010-03-17T12:06:00.004-06:00

I'm so excited about spring and a change in the weather. I still have a small patch of snow, but I'm sure there are signs of spring just waiting to show off. Until they do I made it look like spring in my house. This is my attempt to say good bye to winter and a big HELLO to spring... are you listening?

5 6 7 8

2010-03-09T13:52:00.004-07:00

5 6 7 8. Well drill has come to an end, not just for the year but for me all my dancers are all grown up. I have loved watching my girls dance. This last year I have loved loved loved watching Kenni K dance. I love dance its self, but throw in the fact that someone I love and adore is doing it and I'm in heaven. Kenni is a beautiful dancer with tons of personality while she is dancing. Thanks Kenni for the wonderful years, and like I have always told you never stop dancing. It is part of who you are. From the time you could walk you could dance. I love you and I'm so proud of who you are.

ROAD TRIP!

2010-02-09T11:46:00.003-07:00

This Last week Eric and I drove down to California for Nick and Erica's open house. We had tons of fun and seen some beautiful places.

The open house was really nice! Getting to spend time with the Lockes is always a pleasure.

On Saturday we drove to San Francisco. We seen the Golden gate bridge, cable cars, walked the pier, and drove down Lombard Street.

Nick's dad, Steve got us in to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. It was amazing! I loved the sea horse exhibit. We even went behind the scene to watch them feed the sea otters. Everything was so much fun to watch. It was great to spend some time with my sweetheart Eric.

SNOW snow SNOW

2010-01-27T11:53:00.006-07:00

It's not that I'm a snow hater, I'm not. Really I'm not. (maybe the extra "I'm not" is just to convince me) When you have to drive in snow, it can be a little nerve racking. When you have to drive a forty foot bus full of children in it, it can make you crazy! One day is doable. Two days, not what you want, but you can do it. Three or more days, and I wish I was doing anything but driving a school bus.(even toilets)

We woke up this morning to big soft white beautiful snow! I've been late on every bus run I've taken this morning. It's noon and the snow just keeps coming!

All ready this morning Eric had to pull a bus out that was stuck. (not mine) Pulled a neighbors car out, and cleared a lane for our neighbors.
I just want a good book or movie and forget about whats going on out side! I guess I have two hours to pretend.

For Time and all Eternity

2010-01-26T11:54:00.007-07:00

photos by Natalie

So I've had more than a week to rest and get my act together. Erica and Nick's wedding was so much fun! I had such a great day thanks to all of the family's help. Maridee I wanted to thank you so much for giving me permission not to worry about the luncheon. I know you had lots of help and I want to thank everyone for everything. I know I may not even be aware of all the help that went into the YUMMY lunch. Please know that it was truly appreciated.

Erica told me through out the day how wonderful her day was and how thankful she was. She felt very loved and taken care of. Eric and I was pleased with the turn out at the reception, and again I'd like to thank everyone for their help. I know it would not have been as nice with out all the help from my sisters and Latara. Thank you so much!

I love the temple and I loved being in there with all the people I love. We have been very blessed to be able to stand in the temple with all our married children. Thank you so much my children for trying to do what you know is right it brings so much joy and happiness to me and your dad.

Oh so Happy!

2010-01-03T20:51:00.007-07:00

Oh so Happy! This last Christmas vacation has been the best. I have to admit I'VE BEEN A LITTLE STRESSED OUT! I'm not very good at this wedding thing. I'm so excited about Erica and Nick's wedding but the planning is for the birds. Which might be right up my alley now because I'm as close to a coo coo bird as they get. Back to my great vacation. The kids all came home, everyone of them even my new son! We spent almost a whole week together.
Eric and I loved every minute of it! Loved having Trace and Maddie! Loved to hear my house full of all the sounds that I've missed in the last few years. Loved to wake up to Trace and his request for cocoa! Loved listening to my kids play, laugh, and joke with each other.
We played in the sand, seen a movie, went out to eat, and hung out with each other. I watched as the kids looked out for each other and one anothers hopes and dreams. I even felt the depth of their love for Eric and me as they made Christmas wishes come true.
Thank you kids for all you did! I know that it's not always easy to make things work when we are all together, you kids are the best.

The Balloon Festival!

2009-06-29T19:00:00.007-06:00

Eric and I had so much fun. This was a really cool event and I hope to take more people with me next time, like Erica! :D I am even thinking about taking a trip down to New Mexico to see the balloon festival there because it was so fun. I was surprised at how excited I was about seeing these beautiful balloons!

Is She Stalking Me?

2009-06-27T07:42:00.005-06:00

So I like to walk in the summer. I like to walk in the morning when everything is just starting to wake up. (Every thing except my children.) I like the way morning feels. Of course it helps that I get to walk in places that I love and that give me a sense of well being. I've been walking on the cow hill, and down to the pump in the bottom of the field. I get to hear the sound of the sprinklers, watch as they get changed from one place to the next. The neighbors doing the same thing, running their four wheelers from one place to the next. I've been watching a young family of jack rabbits check me out as I come by everyday. Then there is the birds, morning is the time they are out catching worms for their babies. Calling to each other and letting the world know they are there. Well I had a bird spoil all of this for me, as I walked on the hill I had a mother bird dive bombing me! So I think, I'll move on and walk down in the field. This seemed to solve my problem until I got back on the road, mind you I've been gone away from that bird for twenty minutes or more and she has had to come down off the hill to find me. As soon as I get on the road I see that bird on the power line chirping her stupid head off at me, I'm put out to say the least, what? Is she stalking me? As I move down the road to the safety of my home she hop to the next power line chirping and dive bombing between every power pole. I'm ducking and yelling thing like "what are you doing, I'm not even by your stupid babies", and "how do you even recognize me, I'm not the only walker out here you know!" Of course she doesn't care she just keeps after me until I'm safely in doors. It's the first time in my life I might be able to understand Natalie's fear of birds!

Do you know how to do that?

2009-06-24T08:06:00.003-06:00

So I was reading Saddie's thoughts,(not that I can read minds or anything) Just her thoughts about making cookies.
I remember when Matt was little, but still three or four years old. We were watching a commercial with a mom and her little boy making cookies, Matt turned to me and asked "mom do you know how to do that" We were making cookies before the commercial was through playing. I couldn't believe that he had been alive that long and I hadn't made cookies with him.
So Saddie even though it may take more than a hour and several interruptions to get your cookies done. Tomas won't ever ask you if you know how to do that.
So make some cookies with your kids!

A Walk in The Garden

2009-06-05T09:21:00.006-06:00

Spring and new life has finally come to Enterprise. I'll be the first to say I'm dying of envy when everyone down south is starting to see the new life of spring. Time has past and I am enjoying the new growth in my yard. I went to Toquerville on my birthday and had such a good time walking and sitting in Malawna's beautiful yard and then off I went to Maridee's Yard to enjoy her beautiful Lilies and fun little garden. I even got to take a spin on her new, cool, so neat, I wish I had one, bike. I was hoping to spend some time with Marvene in her garden but, to my disappointment she was off doing her favorite thing shopping! (just kidding we know how much she likes to shop) So I walked through her lovely yard by myself and I loved every minute of it. Her and Lance have been so busy and their yard is beautiful. Good job! Just wanted to take you on a walk in my garden. I find that as time moves, on flowers and plants change and move on too. I love these little johnny jump-ups, they found there own spot in the world and look how at home they have made themselves.

Thank you so much!

2009-04-01T09:37:00.003-06:00

Well the wedding day is over and I loved every minute of it. I just wanted to thank everyone for every thing. It is so nice to have people that you can count on. Thanks for every one coming, for all the good food, for all the help, for the slide show, and for all the love that I felt from each of you. I think you would have to agree Steven and Jessica look like they love each other. Thanks for making it such a nice day for them. (and me) I love love love you all so very much.

Erica and Latara you were the best slaves I've ever had. Thank you for all the work you did for me. If I ever need slaves I know where to go.

Happy Birthday Matthew

2009-02-24T08:07:00.005-07:00

Just a little shout out to tell my first born Happy Birthday! Matt will be turning 25 on the 8th of March along with Uncle Richard!(not that Rich will be 25 it's just his birthday that same day.) I sure love you Matt. I hope this year brings you even more happiness and joy. You and Jenny, and Trace make me very happy. I can't wait until we get that little girl of yours here! Good luck Jenny! Have a great day and do some thing fun! Your Mom and Dad will be thinking of you. Hugs and kisses to all of you from all of us.

Happy Birthday X two

2009-01-30T09:56:00.008-07:00

Happy Birthday!! Times two! Happy Birthday MaLawna and Dendra!
MaLawna will be turning 50 this year, on the 1st of Feb. I think you look marvelous dear. I hope your day is filled with your most favorite things. Just putting a little love out there for you. Thanks so much for all the good times we have had together. Thanks for all ways being there. I know I can count on you if I need you.
Dendra will turn... oh I don't know, she'll be older than she was last year on Feb. 2. Happy Birthday to you my sister. I have such good memories of when we'd run away to Jean, NV and spend weekends with you and your family. I hope that your day is filled with all of your favorite things also. Thank you for being there for me! I'll be forever grateful for the help with Matt and Jenny's wedding.
I hope both of you know that you are loved!

This I know.

2009-01-23T08:05:00.004-07:00

I have a date for the wedding, March 27. They will be getting married in the St. George Temple. How nice is that? We will have a lunch and an open house that same day. Thanks everyone for your excitement and support. They are so cute together.

She said yes spread the news!

2009-01-20T16:50:00.001-07:00

Steven is getting married! He is Marrying Jessica Johnson from Malta, Idaho. We love Jessica and can't wait to get to know her better. Steven is so happy and so in love. I don't have any information to give out, but as soon as I do I'll post. They will get married in a Temple, I just don't know which one. They talk like sometime before May?

Happy Birthday Erica Jo!

2009-01-03T12:00:00.003-07:00

It's your birthday shout hooray! Erica will turn 23 years old on January 7 th. I'm so lucky to have Erica as a daughter, she has brought so much happiness and joy into my life. I love to talk to her (but not so much on the phone) she has such a fun and good way to look at the world. If you have ever read her blog you'd have to agree! Hey little girl I hope this new year brings you joy and happiness. (and maybe a new boyfriend!) I love your new dress, you look smashing in it. I LOVE you. Hope your birthday is great, I'll be thinking about you, do something fun!

Christmas Joy!

2008-12-27T09:57:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas One and all! I love this time of year and this year did not disappoint. I loved every thing about it. (OK so I would have liked having Matt and Jenny at my house Christmas Eve, but Jenny took video of their cute family so I didn't feel left out.) I love love love my family.
Christmas Eve we spent the day out in the snow. Playing in the field, and sledding off the back of the hill. Later that night we all spent an hour in the dark trying to find Steve's lost phone as we retraced our steps up and down the hill behind our home and out in the field. No phone was found as of right now.
Camie and Lynn invited us over Christmas Eve to sing song around the piano. We ate monkey bread. (yum yum). Then on Christmas we had so much fun as older children value their sleep we woke up late about 7:30 I think. We had so much fun opening presents.Then off to Royd and Natalie's house. We ate such good food, first a fun breakfast of green pancakes with red berries and whip cream. Then later a turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Thank you so much Darringtons for such a fun day! It has been so nice to have Royd's family here in Enterprise.
Christmas with older children is different not better or worse; it's just different. Girls that get excited for underwear (yes Met the kind that give you bad dreams and don't have Disney prints on them!) Jeremy has to have bigger shoes than anyone else in the family. All wanting to reclaim the excitement of childhood. When PJ elf is one of the most exciting things that happen. A new story from Grandmother Darrington. An old story from Erica delivered in grand dramatic fashion with audience participation. The love and thought that every child has had as they exchange gifts with their brothers and sisters. I love the gratitude shown for the Christmas presents.
This year Christmas was truly a joy and I was filled with love, not just for my own children and husband, but for my brothers and sisters, our parents, nieces and nephews, cousins and even my aunts and uncles. Oh the Joy!

Trace McCoy

2008-12-03T09:58:00.005-07:00

I never thought I could love anything as much as I've loved being a mom. I have to admit being a grandmother comes closer than anything! (And I've been on a cruise and seen and did some cool things) I love Trace so much. I love his beautiful blue eyes, his funny faces, his cute hands and his feet. (that his mom can't find shoes for) I love his curly blond hair. I love when he holds my hand. I love when you come in the house and he is so excited to see you and he says "Hi ya". I love when he tips his head into you and makes that Ahhh sound. I love when he jabbers in the phone. I love to bathe him. I love to read stories with him. Every chance I get to spend time with him is fun for me. I love being a grandma! Jenny thanks for being so good to me with Trace.

Happy Birthday Jenny

2008-12-03T09:45:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday Jenny Marie Pickering! Jenny is turning 25 on the 9th of December. I hope you have a great birthday this month. I hope you know how grateful I am for you. I'm so glad that you are ours. May your birthday bring you joy and happiness. I love that little boy of yours and I am so excited about our little girl. Thank you for loving Matt so much, you are such a good mom and wife. Thank you so much for all you do for me. I love coming to your home. I love you. Love MOM

Who is this guy in my bed?

2008-11-19T07:57:00.004-07:00

So, Who is this guy in my bed? Sunday Eric gets a wild hair to get rid of some hair, Facial hair that is. Now I know normally this isn't that big of a deal, but you have to remember I have children that have never seen this guys face bare. So that makes it an awful long time for me also. He just shaves his whole face then comes out of the bathroom like it's just another day. I don't see him first, but I do hear Kenni scream. (She's one that has never seen him with a bare face.) Then I have to check out what all the commotion is. Jeremy seems to take all of this change with out any concern. I have to admit I'm a little taken back, who is this guy? Oh I think he looks familiar, yes it has to be the guy I married. We sent a text pic to Latara and Erica, and after church there is more screams on a voicemail from Latara (she's another that hasn't seen her dad's face) and a text from Erica that starts Holy Moly. As we go through out the day I have to keep checking this guy out. I want to touch his face every chance I get. I don't realize how much I'm touching his face, about the only thing that keeps me from touching his face is not to look at him. I find myself mesmerised by this new look.

It's True, I'm Guilty

2008-11-14T09:31:00.005-07:00

It's true, I'm guilty of living through my kids. When I first think about this Erica is the one that comes to mind. I thrilled at every volleyball game and loved every basketball moment. It was as if I knew what was going on in her mind, and of course brought back many fun and exciting memories of playing the games myself. My kids have always been able to achieve more than I ever dreamed was in my grasp. I'm grateful for that. In fact that brings me to my next example. When Matt was heading off to Kindergarten I got him dressed. He put on his cute little back pack and after a few words about "being careful when he needed to cross the busy street". I watched him climb on his bike and head off to school with out even a thought that there might be something to be afraid of. Oh the joy that gave his mom as I remember still every pair of shoes I wore in grade school, because I kept my head down so no one would talk to me. Yea I was living through him and plenty proud of it. Which brings me to Steven and his character I've found myself living through. Steven has the heart of a champion! always has, he ran with all his might. He wrestled with all his heart. Served a mission. I really believe Steven can do anything he puts his mind too. Oh I wish I would have known that as a kid. I've danced a hundred dances as Latara and Kenni leapt and twirled and pounded out a drill team routine. Had my finest performances as my girls have stood on stage, rode floats, performed in pageants, and been the girl that gets to wear the crown, or be the winner. Latara is my daughter that has been tagged the most by her mom, I love it when people who don't even know her know that I'm her mom. I've had hundreds of conversation as I've stood back and watched Kenni talk her "friend talk". Wished I was the one that was making the smile on someones face as Tara wheeled her witty humor around. Then there is Jeremy who does well in school, understands math and is kind, good, and has no desire to get in trouble. My boys have all been good workers and honest. My children make me happy they each share many of the characteristics that I've pointed out. Yeah I'm guilty I've lived my life through my kids, and oh what a great life it has been. Thanks kids for being such great examples to me.

2008-11-11T09:37:00.003-07:00

Hello everyone! I'm so excited to be a blogger, maybe I should say a half blogger. Erica is my editor and layout woman. I'm hoping this will be a good way to stay in touch with all my family and friends. I've been a reader for many months now.
This is me and my cute husband of just twenty five years, I still think he is the cutest man that ever walked on the earth. I love him so much! He really is my best friend. We have six really great kids, Matt, Erica Jo, Steven, Latara, Kenni K, and Jeremy. The first four borned in five years. They have only known one home, The house that Eric and I moved into when we were first married.