The Johnson's Journey...

GIRLS NIGHT IN!!!

2009-10-24T23:14:00.002-06:00

So while the boys are away (in SLC/Provo- for the BYU game) the ladies, B.W.E.K. and I had a FUN day full of girls stuff!! I spoiled them with doughnuts and FUN drinks for breakfast... then we went shopping, and bought some FUN stuff for Halloween costumes! (Breilly got her ears pierced - wow!) following all that FUN - poor K. and E. wanted to go home... and home we did go.. We had a yummy dinner, followed by pampering.. bubble baths, and manicures, and pedicures!! (even little K!) Then we cuddled up and watched a little Barbie and the Three Musketeers!! What a great day with my ladies... lots of sugar and spice and suprisingly EVERYONE was very nice!! Now if only the magic fairies would come by and clean up all our girly fun.... I LOVE MY LITTLE LADIES...(but I will be happy when our boys come home too!)

Numbers

2009-10-02T23:36:00.017-06:00

So it's super late at night... and how do I know that? Well the clock has numbers on it, that tell me that it is WAY past my bed time. Numbers dictate a lot in our lives. Our identities are consumed by numbers. We have social security numbers so that we can get a job, a loan, or a mortgage. We have telephone/cell numbers so that we can be contacted at any moment, and anywhere. We have numerical address so that we can have a location. We have a numerical birthday to signify the day our physical bodies first took it's first breath. We measure the height and weight of our bodies to signify our health and stature. We place a great deal on the things we can measure.

We often define our worth by the size of our paycheck, our home, the number of kids we have, or don't have, the number of years we spent in school, or the number of vacations we have taken. We identify our selves by these numbers and feel safe when we can measure or quantify our lives.

Recently I have been reminded that the gospel of Jesus Christ enlightens our minds about numbers. The scriptures are full of examples of numbers, which I just have to share.

Numbers: There are three members of the God head, our presidencies in the LDS church are organized in threes (a president and two counselors). There are three degrees of light; the sun, moon, and stars, three degrees of glory, and three degrees in the celestial world. Scholars state that Christ suffered in the garden of Gesthemene for 3 hours, and was resurrected on the third day. There are 12 tribes, 12 apostles, and 12 months in the year. There were 7 creative periods, the Earth was organized in 7 days, and we have 7 days in a week..... We have been admonished to forgive seventy times seven... or as often as we need. The examples go on and on.

What I am most impressed with though is the thought of "infinite"..... a number I cannot understand or comprehend. Christ's love and atonement is infinite. He has created worlds without numbers and yet what is so amazing is that he knows each ONE of us. All that he did, in his infinite wisdom and love, was done for everyONE. He seeks out the ONE lost sheep. He doesn't give up on ONE of us, even when we think our worth is worth nothing. So what is the worth of ONE? Does it have a number? The scriptures tell us that the worth of one soul is great! How do we measure "great", can we assign that a number?

There is great power in BIG numbers, but we need remember there is also great power in small, in just ONE. It is impossibly to measure the the power of ONE good man or woman on this earth. I have been blessed to be surrounded by many of these great ONES.

Summer, School, and Simplify

2009-09-06T00:17:00.003-06:00

So we ended Summer with a FABULOUS trip to Lake Powell with my family. We had 4 full days of fun and sun!! I am always happy that in my OLD age I am still able to ski... and even was able to get up on the wake board! Breilly and Whitney were able to get up on skis and Zach mastered the boogie board. All of us survived the many trips on the tubes... although once I wondered if I was still alive after a wipe out!! The high light of the trip was that Saturday.. all my siblings and their families were there! We took a photo (I'll post later) as it is the first time we've ALL been together in a very long time.

I was sad to say goodbye to summer... it went WAY to fast. We did swimming lessons, golfing lessons, and trips to the library and zoo.... then off to Cali, Utah, and Powell!! I didn't get any of my "summer" projects done... but we had a BLAST!!

So as a new school year begins.... I always say we will simplify, and then I turn around and we've got dancing lessons, piano lessons, and soccer, activity days, and preschool... did I say simplify? Everyone has something to do.... and I get them there..somewhat on time. I continue to be CRAZY... and so is life for our crew. ...

Pictures will come soon.... Happy Fall to you all!! I love this time of year!

12 years.....

2009-08-19T00:00:00.002-06:00

Today is Derek and my 12th anniversary! Crazy how time flies... Marriage, moving to Cali, Baby 1,happy, happy... newlywed bliss, moving to Iowa ..Baby 2 , poor poor.. to far for anyone to visit, to poor to do anything, except go to Oprah, (that's when I thought Oprah was cool, now I think she is a little psycho) move to Utah, HOORAY, baby 3 &4, and 5 (still can't believe we have 5!), happy happy times.. sad, sad, move to Idaho, happy happy... life is good.
It's been a wild ride... adventures, laughter and tears.... but I LOVE our life. It's turned out better than I could've planned (knock on wood), and I am so grateful for my best friend to travel this journey with. I love you Derek, eventhough you are CRAZY (I mean thanks for loving me... even though I am CRAZY!!)Year 12 was fantastic... the move was a bit painful... but Europe made up for it!!!
So what did we learn on year 12.... 5. that there is life out of Utah, 4. that Europe is still as beautiful as I remember, 3. that even though moving was the pits... we took the most important things with us, our 5 great kids, 2. That trials bring us closer to Heavenly Father and to each other, and 1. You have to remeber to stop and ENJOY the journey!! (Okay I didn't exactly "learn" this,,, just I was reminded to do this)
Happy 12... here's to 13.. I know that 13 is usually a suspicious number... but I am going to think positive and hope that it is a LUCKY year for our family......

JOurneY of the B's

2009-06-28T19:35:00.010-06:00

June has been so busy... summer started with a "BANG!" We celebrated Whitneys 8th Birthday ..(May 31st) ... and her Baptism, and then our Baby = Little Miss Kiley turned ONE!! How did that happen? I think she was just born... sad, sad, sad.. the year was so busy that it just Blew By... She is now trying to Balance and walk... watch out!

For the Baptism we were happily BOMBARDED by Family... we Broke the firecode and had 27 people at our Bed and Breakfast (home!!) It was a Beautiful day, and we appreciate everyone who came to share this special day with Whitney, and our family!! We were so sad when the crowds left... Please come BACK soon!

I haven't been very good at blogging. I will try to atleast post monthly. .. I am a teacher for Relief Sociey and last month gave a talk about Enjoy the Journey. I had been thinking about what you need for a journey... a bag to bring all your stuff. I was driving down the road and saw it! I found an old RED round suitcase! It is so cute! I now keep it in my room, to remind me to enjoy the journey. I had a big "a ha" moment... I learned that you have to find your own "joy" in the Journey... because it is there... it is always there... see look JOurneY! Life is not to be lived it is to be CELEBRATED!!

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-08T23:21:00.007-06:00

As we've often heard, being a mom is one of the hardest "jobs" out there! I'd like to add to this... and that is, being a mom is also one of the most wonderful "jobs" out there. So, lately, I've been analyzing my profession...Here are 10 of my discoveries:

1. I can't just waste the day away.. I have 5 little people who "encourage" me to WAKE UP - as soon as the sun shines!
2. If I miss a morning run/exercise... It's okay, because I spend most of the day on my feet - chasing, cleaning, shoping, and playing (with my "clients" -aka kids) It's a wonder that we even can put on any weight... except when you find my stash of chocolate covered gummy bears - YUM!! Don't knock it til you try... YUM!
3. If I am feeling less than stimulated.. I just sit down with my 3 year old who will teach me all kinds of important things, that a "dancer girl" does, or hang out with my 5 year old, who "schools" me at all things relating to video games.
4. If I am in a hurry and forget to eat ... I can just shake out my purse to find all kinds of edible items.. fruit snacks, crackers, gummy bears... a constant 72 hour kit!
5. If we miss a nightly bath... baby wipes are a wonder for all ages!
6. Three day old hair is pushing it, but pony tails will always work... (for kids, and mom's)
7. My kids don't care if I forget to do my makeup.. morning distractions - oops!
8. If the day is long, and full of "to do's" then a special treat helps everyone (esp. mom) feel better!
9. It's okay if my "to do" list doesn't get done, when I have spent a day with the kids, helping them with their "to do" list... from helping with homework to playing at the park.
10. AND the sweetest words are "MOM" and even sometimes "Vicki"(when my 3 yr old is shopping with me, and calles herself "dancer girl" and me "vicki"), OR "teacher" when my kids have been at school all day, and are in "school mode" - Kids are so funny!

So my analysis is that I LOVE being a mom. Yes even as I wipe boogers, change diapers, help with hard homework assignments, and wake up at ridiculous hours at night, feeding babies, cleaning up sick messes, or just listening to a troubled little person. I do Cherish these moments.

I hope that my kids will always know how much I love them, and LOVE being their mom. I was trained by a great mom...aka Lovely Loraine. I LOVE my mom. She is a dear friend, and a great Mom. Thanks MOM!! And Derek's Mom is wonderful too!! How lucky I am to have such outstanding examples of how to be a Mom.

Here's me and my cute mom, in Prague! We had such a lovely time on our European Adventure!

So to all my sweet friends! You are such MARVELOUS moms... Thanks for your examples and for your support.. It is nice that we can work in field together! Isn't it a great job? If you ever get discouraged, just read my list of 10 and give yourself more credit! HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!! Loves to all of you!

My Sweet Journey

2009-04-17T23:12:00.008-06:00

So we've been back from Europe for almost 2 weeks... it seems like it was a dream! We had such a lovely time. I have to admit, Austria was so heavenly for me. It was so nice to reconnect to my "homeland." I said that I didn't even care what we did in Austria, I'd be happy just to drive through the cities I served in... but I have to say, visiting with my "friends" was how I really was able to reconnect to Austria.

We had such wonderful visits with my dear friends: Erika, Natasha, The Back Family, (including Roland), Monika, and Rebecca! I am so happy that they all wanted to see me after 14 years!!! What's so amazing.. is that when I was there, with them, walking down streets, eating schnitzel and Almdudler... it just seemed like yesterday, AND Derek was proud that, yes, I could still speak German... and they could understand me! What was interesting was that during the time I was there I prayed in German, and even dreamed in German. What fun!

The whole trip was just delightful... and I was able to share it with Derek! It was his first time to Europe, and we gave him the crash course, as we went to 4 countries (Austria, Czech Rep., Germany, Netherlands) in just 9 days! We ended the trip in Amsterdam... the "homeland" to the Vreekens. My grandpa was born in Amsterdam. It was such a beautiful city. I LOVED the canals, and the architecture! But finding my grandpa's home was the cherry on top. Walking the streets that my ancestors walked, worked, and joined the church! It was quite moving for all of us! I am so grateful that my mom found the address!

How grateful I am for this trip. I LOVED my mission, and to go back was truly so wonderful! And then going to Amsterdam, was so humbling. I am so thankful for the missionaries that knocked on my "great granparents" door, and taught them the gospel! I am so thankful for their sacrifices that they made to move to America!

So, now I can only hope to someday return again... but until then, I will hold onto these sweet moments, and new memories to sustain me... and hope I won't have to wait another 14 years ... but if I do, what sweet journey it will be! (again)

Prague and Grundau (D)

2009-03-25T06:18:00.003-06:00

We had a wonderful time in Vienna. I think we walked grandma and grandpa's legs off.!! Complete with lunch at "Herbs" the schnitzel place in Vienna that ALL the missionaries go!! It is still yummy (and HUGE). We had a special surprise as we went by the Lipizzaner Stalls, and we saw the horses, Derek even pet them! Yesterday we spent the day in Prague! It was beautiful... but a bit windy, and cold. Then we drove on over to my friend Monika's home in Germany (Grundau) about 1 hour South of Frankfurt. We spent the night, in their beautiful home.. and got to see another friend, Rebecca, and we will leave to see the Frankfurt temple and make our way up to Dusseldorf. Here are the pictures for today!! ENJOY!!

Day in Graz

2009-03-22T13:46:00.003-06:00

Today we spent the day in Graz Austria. This was mom's first area on her mission. Here are some pictures from today. The first one is of the train tracks of a train we took. It was very steep. The second one is of a Austrian boy we met in the park and he started kissing Kiley on the head. She now has a boyfriend in Austria. Third one is of me and Kiley on the train. The next one is of clock tower that has little people (fake) come out and dance. The last one is of mom and Kiley in front of our rental car. Zach and Emily, you know when you tell me to go faster well, you would be so proud of me as I got the car upto 180 km/hr. That is all for today. Now we are in Vienna. We are planning on calling you as soon as we get up the room. We love you lots! Love, Dad and Mom

2009-03-21T15:05:00.003-06:00

Hey... Breilly, Whitney, Zach, and Emmie....we are here in Austria!! Tonight we are in Graz, staying with the Bäck Family! We miss you!! Kiley has been missing you.. she sleeps alot so she must be dreaming about all of you!! LOVE YOU!! Here are some pictures of our trip so far.We rode in a carriage to a castle (Kiley slept´she was just like sleeping beauty!), we went to the place where the family lived in the Sound of Music, and we went shopping down a neat street!! We wish you were here too!!

Thoughts of a Mom....

2009-02-24T22:27:00.004-07:00

Often I sit and watch my kids and wish that life was "as fun" for me as it is for them. I watch as they pick up a ribbon, and dance across the room with it, as though it is a magic sash. I watch as my son becomes a "rock"star as he plays guitar hero (okay I feel a little rock starish when I play it too), picking up a stick - which immediately becomes a weapon of some sort. I watch as they drag their stuffed animal dog around by a ribbon, pretending it is real dog. So begins the play, I begin rocking the baby, petting the new dog, dancing around the room. We laugh, and I stop and think - am I the kind of mom I "thought" I'd be?

I think of my beautiful, talented, amazing sisters and friends, and the mom's I know they are, and I wonder.... am I? I know that I have better mom days, and not so good mom days. I have days when I AM a fun, cool, mom. And I have days that I transform into the wicked witch of the west, riding my broom around the house, as my children run from my spells.... Thank goodness that they forget quickly, and give me another chance the next day, to "try" again. I love being a mom. Right now, living somewhere new, I am embracing this role. I am grateful that I am a mom. I am grateful that these little people we are intrusted with, love us, and teach us that life is so fun and magical.

To all my sisters and my friends, you are wonderful moms. You are wonderful women thank you for encouraging me, inspiring me, and motivating me to be better. I love you all.... have a wonderful day!

Valentines Day... Happy Feet!

2009-02-15T18:44:00.006-07:00

We had a FABULOUS Valentines day. We woke up early, had a fun valentine breakfast. (Heart waffles) Derek bought me roses! (What a sweet guy!) I bought him candy (that IS sweet-right?) Then we went to a FREE movie (care of our realtor - who sold us our home) where we ate lots of FREE popcorn, and FREE soda. (Unfortunately the 3 littles didn't think the Pink Panther was that great, Derek left early)

The afternoon, we ate lots of SUGAR cookies. Then we prepared for the big clogging debut for Breilly and Whitney. They did a GREAT job, even if you can't see Whitney very much, she did AWESOME! They both got first and second place. We came home and then played in our family band, with Guitar Hero's help. We are planning on taking ourselves on tour, maybe to a location near you.... Or, you are welcome to come to our establishment - The Johnson B&B. We offer AMAZING entertainment. (clogging, singing, etc...) Needless to say, the day wore out the kids, and everyone went to bed quickly that does show LOVE to mom and dad.

After our last year of chaos, and trials, and good times too.. I sure love my "Valentine" more today than I thought I could. This year has brought us closer to each other, and closer to the family, and closer to what is really important. Love is really what makes the world go round. Love you all!

Choices and Consequences

2009-02-12T20:09:00.002-07:00

Life lessons.... Monday I was at the school, helping the PTA, when one of my children proceeded to pull/touch the fire alarm! WOW! What do you do? Well, I don't know if I did the right or the wrong thing, things kind of went into "slow" motion, and I asked this child to immediately come to my side - as the principal shut the alarm off. Then when we returned home, we had a "talk," as she was in "time out." We then went over the good old "choices/ consequences" - YW stuff... bottom line she decided that she wished that she could rewind the "choice," hence having a much better consequence. Isn't life like that? I told her that she would have more days like this, but the best thing that we can do, is to never do it again, which she assured me, "I'm never doing that again, Mom." I know that I will have more days like today, Ug... maybe next time it will be better - for both of us.

I got tagged 4th file, 4th picture

2009-01-29T23:06:00.003-07:00

Here is my very handsome husband. This picture was taken at my parents house, I don't know why, but I thought he looked so good in it that we used it in our Christmas Card this year. He's such a great husband- I sure do love him, even if he walked on our new wood floors with his shoes on (A big NO NO)

Now I tag... Alita, Diane, Cheri, and anyone else who needs a fun idea for a blog entry....

Go to your files and post the 4th file, 4th picture and then explain the photo!

The Freaky Face Book

2009-01-29T22:57:00.002-07:00

So this past week Derek and I decided to join Face Book... If you haven't done it, than you won't understand when I say this is so fun and freaky too... I can't believe how many people are on there! I must admit that I am enjoying it, especially because as of today's date I still have more friends than Derek!!(ha ha- he has turned this into a contest of sorts). I have found some long lost friends, that I am so thrilled to have located, especially some of my dear mission companions, who I thought disappeared! I have also found some people that I will continue to hide from, ha ha.... I think that I still enjoy this blog thing better, maybe because it is so personal and I just love it!! Love you so much, see you either in the Blogging world or the FB world...

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-21T20:41:00.005-07:00

It looks as though my "Christmas" card will be more of a "Happy New Year" card... so until then... here's a little peek at the family... Thanks to all of you who've sent your cards! It's been so fun to catch up! loves to all of you! I'll be getting that card out soon!

The Christmas card

2008-12-16T01:17:00.003-07:00

I am so excited for my Christmas card this year. It is a little silly, but fun. I am having a crazy week, so I am shooting to have it "done" and sent this weekend. (It may be sent from California the rate I am going, but it will be sent.) I love Christmas cards, especially receiving them. I also, in a strange way, love writing them. It gives me a moment to recap the year. (Although this year has been a challenging one).
We are trying to remember all the blessings of the year. Like, Derek found a great job. We sold our home quickly, and without a realtor. We had a beautiful baby girl (Miss Kiley -dimples- Ann) join our family. And her little foot is doing awesome!! We found a beautiful home in Idaho, and the kids are doing well in school. And although we miss our family and friends, like crazy, we've started to make some great "new" friends. Life is wonderful. We are blessed. Challenges make you grow, even though I am still so short (according to Zach.) I love receiving your cards. Your families are beautiful, and your messages inspiring. Merry Christmas everyone!! I love this time of year! Keep those card coming!! love to all of you!

Christmas!

2008-12-10T22:19:00.002-07:00

So we only have 14 more days! For my family, I say, we only have 8 more days! We are keeping it simple this year - atleast that is my claim. It has to be somewhat simple, since we will be "away" for the holidays = Christmas week in California, and New Years Week in Utah! Fun!

I am missing all of you, my dear friends and family, right now. This weekend we are going to "attempt" to throw our annual Christmas party. I am sad, as I am missing those who yearly attend. I know I am going to miss: funny comments from Dustin and Nat, Sarah and Chris entertaining the crowd, Brian Millers "nice" white elephants, My brother or sister (I don't kow who brought them) dirty little mexican white elephants, Krista Barker being embarassed by some of the white elephants, Derek "wowing" everyone with his LATEST game, (Erin was always impressed - hee hee, this year we are just using an old one) , I could go on and on.. I am now kicking myself that I didn't just grin and bare it and have the party last year! If I could go back, my funny friends, I'd be all over it! You are all invited to come this weekend. We have found a nice family to do the Sub-for-Santa. That is always such a highlight of the holiday season.

When I start to hear my kids (and myself) say I want.... then I am reminded of those who really want, really need things. Even with all the chaos and changes over this last year I am reminded that our family has been blessed so much! I hope that I get our Christmas card out this year. I am trying to - it may be a happy new year card instead.... Hope your 2008 ends great! We love you! And I hope to get cards from ALL OF YOU!! loves... me

Thanksgiving

2008-11-28T20:37:00.004-07:00

Here are my 6 greatest blessings that I am MOST thankful for!!

I am also VERY thankful for:

T - Testimony

H - Health

A - All my blessings

N- New Home, New beginnings

K - Kiley - that she joined our family this year

F - Family

U- Unanswered prayers

L - Laughter - it is the best medicine!

We stayed in Boise for Turkey day. It has been nice ( yes and a little lonely) but nice. We have been counting our blessings: Some include: Family, friends, gospel, health, home, star wars and light sabers, babies, toys, ... It's been our year to remember to stop and count our blessings: amidst the hardships we have been VERY blessed this year! Thank you to all of you who bless our lives, we are so thankful for you! Happy Turkey Day!!

Things that make you go HMMMMMMM

2008-11-13T20:40:00.003-07:00

You know that great song (ha ha) from the 80s "things that make you go hmmm" Well, we are living it right now... Here's the story:

We needed to be in Utah last Friday for Kiley to go to Primary Childrens. (Kiley had her foot looked at, and all is well. We are now only required to wear her shoes at night! Hooray!) Back to the story.... The kids didn't have school Thurs/Fri, so I decided to leave Wed. That morning, I exercised ... but was feeling rushed so I only did it 30 minutes. Anyway, this is important because when I came downstairs I heard water running, not a good sound, and as I followed the rushing water sound I was greeted by a flowing waterfall out of the toilet!! (Our toilets have had issues - ALL 4 of them! UG!!)

Anyway, after FREEKING OUT, I had to find the plunger! The first bathroom had a plunger, unfortunately the door is locked (thanks Zach), and little Emily-is on the toilet waiting for me to wipe her, she is locked in and screaming, thanks again Zach. The next bathroom has no plunger. Finally in the last bathroom I find our other plunger and sprint downstairs to the waterfall. With plunger in hand, I stop the water and then mop up the floor using almost every towel I can find. (I think I counted 10) After I finally got the floor dry, no more "running" water sound, I hear the "screaming sound" yes, it was Emily I forgot to save her from her toilet prison!OOPS!

Unfortunately -all of the floor is wood..... Fast forward to Sunday evening. We arrived home from Utah (gone5 days) to find the floor BUCKLED! The entire bathroom, into the hallway and even into the kitchen! Two board in the kitchen are the most damaged - weird.

Fast forward - Monday called the insurance co. they sent over a restoration company. Tues. they ripped up my floor, made a plastic room and started the engines (FANS).. So, since Tues. we have been living in an air terminal!! A CONSTANT hmmmmmmmm fills our house, not a quiet hmmm but a LOUD hmmmm, so loud that we now all yell at each other. Luckily, the floor guy came by tonight, and said that we will be done tomorrow! HOORAY!!

Next step, new floors... which will require us to leave for 3 days, while they refinish and stain... FUN FUN FUN! So these are the .... Things that make you go hmmmmmmmm!!! I am ready for the Hmmm to stop. I went to the library today and just sat there enjoying the "quietness." So tonight, as you tuck those kiddos in bed, and listen to the "silence of sleeping" I will cuddle up and listen to the hmmmmmmmm...thankfully for just one more night! I have taken pics....I'll post them tomorrow!

Happy Hauntings and Happy Home

2008-11-01T20:50:00.003-06:00

Here's our home... come and see us anytime..

Here's little Kiley clown, she's having a great time!

Here are the little spooks... they are so Cute! (I am biased!)

The kids didn't have school Friday (Halloween) so we had our own party! It was a HOOT!!

(Just in case you didn't realize it... I was rhyming! hee hee)

We played games, went on a scavenger hunt, and ate "mummy dogs, witch fingers, and mud dessert complete with worms!"

So much fun!! Wish you could've come! Happy Harvest to all of you! Wow I can't believe October is over!

TAGGED!!

2008-10-16T21:48:00.002-06:00

Thanks Brandi- this forces me to blog.:)

I am: a "crazy" mom of five GREAT kiddos!

I want: more time in the day to finish my "to-do" list!

I have: to many toys in my toyroom! (ironically I thought we purged when we moved!)

I dislike: walnuts, such a sad way to ruin a brownie

I miss: my family and friends in Utah.

I fear: the new sounds my house makes late at night.

I feel: blessed. tired. content.

I hear: Kiley breathing. (she's so cute when she sleeps).

I smell: baby lotion. (YUM!)

I crave: chocolate, and chewy things like cinnamon bears.

I cry: when I think of the past year, blessings, cursings ( ha ha)

I usually: clean the house before I go to bed.

I search: for missing items until I find them - I hate to lose things

I wonder: what this year will bring. Hopefully a little less eventful than the last.

I regret: nothing

I love: my little kiddos (and the big daddy-o too)

I care: to much about my kids academic success.

I always: brush my teeth.

I worry: about my kids making new friends, and adapting here in Idaho.

I am not: computer savy.

I remember: how much I hate the first part of my pregnancies.

I believe: in Santa.

I dance: with the kids to ABBA!! We LOVE Dancing Queen (king for Zach)

I sing: children's songs all day long.

I don't always: wash my hair.(I'm sporting 3 day hair today- thank goodness for ponytails).

I argue: with Whitney over silly things, like her hair - daily! UG!

I write: in a journal for each of my kids.

I win: nothing.

I lose: my keys often. Infact we haven't ever found one set.

I wish: I could snap my fingers like Mary Poppins and have my house clean itself.

I listen: to Emily and Zach sing kids songs, as we explore Boise.

I don't understand: why we had to move to Idaho. (maybe someday:))

I can usually be found: folding laundry every night.

I need: a big clock for the area above my fireplace, and "chunky" decorations for this house.

I forget: my in-laws birthdays. (sorry)

I am happy: usually all the time.

I now tag: ALL OF YOU who read this! :)

Miss Dimples!

2008-10-08T18:28:00.004-06:00

You've got to love those cheeks! Here is our little Kiley -She is now 4 months old! (Today)

She is truly such an angel baby. I don't quite know where the last 4 months have gone.... time sure flies once these little people arrive.

Her Right foot is doing great! She has 1 more month of full time brace wear (we opted out of the brace for the picture), and then just at night for .... who knows... up to 3 years!

The Barbie Scooter

2008-10-03T00:10:00.004-06:00

Last week, I walked my 2 oldest girls to school, Whitney road a scooter, and she decides I should just take her scooter home for her. So, after kisses and byes, I turn around to go home. In hand I hold the barbie scooter, and it starts calling my name. So what do I do? What any 30+ year old would do, I jump on and start riding the 2 blocks to my home.

At first, I am doing great, just cruising along, feeling free and feeling quite cool... Have you riden one? They are quite fun, ...well really fun until .....BAM BOOM CRASH!!!!

You would have thought that I ran into a pot hole, as I flew through the air and onto my tummy! Yes I crashed! A dad stopped to see if I was okay. Sure I said with blood on my hands and ankles. It wasn't so much the physical wounds that did me in, it was the kids across the street pointing and laughing at me! Sad sad....mean little stinkers, laughing at the old lady on the scooter!Well I brushed myself off, and I did mount that little scooter again, and finished my last block, bloody and with a shot ego. Well, maybe next time I'll just push the scooter home, um, then again... maybe not.

Something fun to blog about.....

2008-10-02T23:45:00.005-06:00

So my little sister Cheri had this on her blog, and I just thought it inspired me with something fun to blog about....

3 joys:
1. Order - when things are in their place and everything is clean = great joy! Derek shared the scripture at FHE about "The kingdom of God is not filthy" and so the Johnson's kingdom is not going to be filthy - although it is a little inevitable as we are still unpacking. But what a happy thought.
2. My children and my husband - what can be better than a 3 year old (my Emmie) singing at the top of her lungs in the basket as we are shopping in Target "I am a child of God" (love those moments.)
3. My bed - after 2 months without it, I really do love my bed!

3 Fears:
1. Bugs, Spiders, snakes... yuck - enough said
2. Being hurt by someone, or my children being hurt by someone
3. Jumping off house boats - at Lake Powell Derek tried to get me to jump off the top of the house boat, and I just couldn't do it.

3 Obsessions:
1. The office - Love a good laugh
oh and The biggest loser - love to be motivated to be healthy
2. Finding a good deal - so much fun, LOVE sales and stuff.
3. My kids - I love them to death - esp. little Kiley right now - she is such a great baby!

3 Surprising Facts:
1. It is difficult for me to go to bed with a messy house (I will stay up until ridiculous hours to clean and have things straight). Plus I really do like to clean.
2. I like to play the piano when I am feeling crazy!
3. I'm not very good at tech stuff, I do minimal things on the computer, and can barely text, it takes me hours to do a simple sentence.

Now if any of you friends out there read this... I am tagging all of you. Then maybe some of you will update your blogs, this will give you something to blog about! FUN FUN!

We're HOME!!

2008-09-17T22:11:00.002-06:00

Okay first let me say, that pictures are forth coming.. just a bit delayed due to the sea of cardboard that is covering our floor. (I actually can see carpet now! In some rooms!) Saturday we moved in... we had a great turn out of ward members here to help us. We found beds, minus bedding, but beds none the less, an awesome neighbor brought us dinner, then the "rituals" began. Just like they did in our last home. Baths, pajamas, treat, teeth, and prayer. A prayer of true thanksgiving. A prayer of true peace, and rest. We are finally home. Together. We have reached the top of this crazy "moving" mountain, and like the song says "I can see clearly now the rain is gone, I can see all obstacles in my way... it's gonna be a bright, bright sun shiny day!" After trials come the blessings, yet, I believe that the blessings come with the trials, or maybe because of trials. I hope that we can sit here on the summit for a while. I sure enjoy the view. The trip up was a bit rocky, rainy, and difficult, but I can honestly say, I believe that it was worth it. (not that I am wanting to take this hike anytime soon). I am so grateful to be "home" again... and you are all welcome to visit ANYTIME! loves to all of you!

5,4,3,2,1 .........the count down begins!

2008-09-04T21:42:00.002-06:00

Still no pictures... but they will be coming! Because in just 5 days (yes less than 1 week) we will have a home... complete with walls and carpet and everything, and it will be ours! Tonight was so fun. We took the kids over into the house for the first time. You would have thought we were heading into Disneyland! (They were so excited at dinner that I had to keep reminding them to eat!) I have to admit.. I too was so excited to go to the house and see it again! The Robertson's, the sweet couple who we are staying with, went with us.
Can I just say that the Robertson's are earning their wings? They are so wonderful! They have opened their doors and even are kind when the kids "slam" the doors! They have a beautiful home here in Idaho, and we appreciate their kindness so much. This is one of the "pay it forward" moments in my life. When someone does something so - out of the ordinary- something, so incredibly kind and thoughtful, that I wish that I could return the favor... and I will someday, when I "pay it forward" to someone else.
I remember when I was SUPER sick with pregnancy, and my cute neighbor Stacey did such nice things for me, (as well as other wonderful friends,) services which I wanted to return, and Stacey said just "pay it forward." So I will. It is so much easier to be the pay-er than the pay-ee. I look forward to helping someone else someday!
Well, keep checking in with us... because next week this blog is going to be FULL of pictures and fun! Until then.. count along with me.... HEE HEE!!

Homeless...... and Happy..

2008-08-04T23:20:00.002-06:00

Well, for those who are visiting this - yes, we are homeless, and yes we are happy. I think the kids are happy because they are "playing" ( AKA. living at grandma's - our present residence - until moving day) and happy that I gave them the day off, from sitting on the freeway exit with a sign that reads - "5 homeless children... will work for treats." I told my cute YW that if they DID see me on the corner, to please throw a quarter at me...

We've been busy... and hopefully we will be in a new home soon, seeing that school in Boise begins in a few weeks (Aug 25). We are planning on heading there on Sat. Aug 23rd...we are waiting, because our home isn't available until Sept. 8th... Thus, we will be on the corners in Boise as well... ha ha- still homeless, and happy. (I will post pictures and address as soon as we get settled, and out of suitcases)
Other quick events: Kiley had surgery on her foot, and is in her final cast... 2 weeks until the big reveal and her "new shoes" which we will BEDAZZLE!!
We Blessed Kiley, and were lucky to have both sets of grandparents attend!YEA!
We attended a "Johnson" famiy reunion up Ogden canyon - super fun!
Emily is officially potty trained - which she did on her own, during our move and the arrival of a new baby... I guess she figured I was a little preoccupied and took matters into her own hands....
Derek gets his braces off in just 7 weeks! We can't wait to see those pearly whites! He can't wait to have food NOT stuck in his teeth.

I will get some pictures hooked up to this soon. Kiley looked so cute on her blessing day, one sweet little bootie on the left, and her cast on the right!

I am getting anxious for some "stability." I am excited for a "new" start, those people in Boise don't know how crazy I am. . . . YET....

Thanks for all the comments and for adding to your blogs, your inspire me, and motivate me! loves to all....

Goodbye Emma Mine

2008-07-20T21:02:00.002-06:00

I am using my parents computer to do this entry, hence, no pictures. This week was the hardest week of my married life. I never thought that I could feel such sadness and loss over selling and moving, but I do. WOW talk about a hole in the heart. As we packed up, on Thursday, I kept seeing the past 6 years replay before me, and I was devistated. I woke up feeling okay, and then around 10 am, the door swung open as a group of "angels" swept in to literally sweep my house clean. I had to find moments to hide the tears of gratefulness, and sorrow. These wonderful women, (and men who helped us the entire night before) who were once strangers - are now some of the dearest people I know. They are truly family. When the angel crew finished, it was just the family. I would clean, and cry, and clean and cry and cry and cry. I walked down stairs and just sat on the stage in the playroom and sobbed. I just couldn't believe this was real!! I silently prayed for peace- or to please wake up to a year ago, when things seemed so much easier. Ug! Well, we took lots of pictures, and then as a family knelt and prayed one last time in our "home." We walked out and closed the door, and said goodbye to our "home." I don't think that I can go back for a while, it would just be to hard. For now we are homeless,.. thank goodness for parents who are willing and able to house our circus! To all my dear friends out in Herriman, we love you. We cherish our friendships with you, and will be expecting Christmas cards. ... until next post!.. loves...

My life is a Musical...

2008-07-15T00:45:00.002-06:00

I wish that I had some pictures to show you.... but since I don't just close your eyes and imagine CHAOS!! My house looks as though a tornato has passed through, and I expect to find Dorothy, or the wizrd around any corner now. Yes we are packing up, and will be moving on Wednesday! I am sad, and happy, excited, and scared, and tired mixed up in all of this. I have many moments when I feel like I'm in a musical, (no I don't break into song...) but, in my thoughts songs are rushing - from: "For Good" from Wicked, as I think about the dear friends I have made here, and how much they have changed me "for good," to "Memories" from Cats, as I think of all the memories we have had here, to "Sunrise, sunset" from Fiddler on the Roof, .... I could go on and on... but, I am to tired. (It is almost 1 :30 am) We will keep you all posted on our location, since as of Friday - we will be "homeless."

So what have you been up to?

2008-07-10T23:21:00.003-06:00

The other day I called a dear friend, who I haven't spoken to in a while, and the question was asked, "So what have you been up to?" Obviously she hasn't tuned into my FANTASTIC blogspot, haha, which has been a bit pimped thanks to my cute sis-in-law... (thanks Ali). So just in case you're wondering what I've been up to, here's a little list of some of the "FUN." The other day, I ....
1. got up, (earlier than I had hoped, due to late night packing, and laundry)
2. nursed the baby, (I forget how often the littles need to eat! good thing she is such a sweet pea!)
3. showered (quickly- just to scrub the "stinky" off), I was on 4th day, grease hair- no time for that luxury (they say that is healthy for your hair right?)
4. Drove up to Park City to drop off Breilly and her friend to girl scout camp, just a mere 3 1/2 hour trip - I have plenty of time to spare! (ha ha) It was actually relaxing, and I made a few calls to some friends I've needed to talk to, great catch up time, especially funny when they'd ask what I've been up to....
5. Stopped to nurse baby - conveniently by the Outlet stores, I can't resist the possibility of finding a treasure, which I did find, CUTE $1 flip flops, and some little "cast"friendly skirts for Miss Kiley.
6. Ran by the store, we had run out of the necessities...
7. Returned something to another store.
8. Stop by store to get somethings for YW - yes I am still the YW president eventhough I will be homeless in just 7 days....I am so sad- I will miss these girls and the WONDERFUL women that I serve with.
9. Picked up kids, from the babysitter. WOW - My trip to the mountains (Park City) had now cost me over $100- UG! (especially since gas costs so much....yada yada...)
10. Come home and pack some more - I am starting to wonder if it will ever end..
10. 7:00 kids ask when is dinner -oops - BAD mom moment, - quick meal - thank goodness for eggos and a toaster.
11. Bath time - everyone needs one, including me - ha ha
12. I know that I nursed peanut many more times than I am documenting, as well as working snack shack for the other kids.
13. Stories, prayers and kisses... this always lasts way to long although I am the one to blame, shoot they are all just so scrumptous, I love my littles so much!
14. Computer stuff
15. Laundry and horrible tv viewing. - Wow I could've bought some "treasures" on TV, I mean who comes up with these creations?
16. I don't know what time I went to bed, maybe 2 or so in the morning.

I feel like repeating the tagline from a soap opera.. so,...."these are the days of "my" life." I've also had some really fun "cherry on top" moments, like sick kids with croup, and another with stomach flu. The fun just never stops!!

I was so hoping to have a party with friends before we moved, but alas it will not happen. boo hoo. I know that you're wondering why, and thinking I'm a slacker, I mean I do nothing all day long, but sit and watch tv and infomercials and eat bonbons,,, ahhhh if only! ha ha

The past month since the birth of little Kiley (aka angel baby) has flown by. WOW! Time flies when your having fun....fun? I am looking foward to new adventures, but I am so sad to close this wonderful chapter of our lives. We have been so blessed the last (almost) 6 years. How thankful we are for our friends, family, and memories. We love you all!! (please excuse any typos or other mistakes I am a little crazy right now ( but then again what's new?)

Some things to think about

2008-06-16T22:17:00.007-06:00

A dear family friend (my "kind of cousin"), David Wright, died suddenly on Wednesday. He was only 28, and left behind a beautiful wife, daughter and baby on the way. It makes you stop, reevaluate, and remember what's really important. Sunday, was his viewing, and today was the funeral. The funeral was a beautiful tribute to him, and the families involved. They had wonderful quotes that were displayed, I wrote down some:
"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count.
It's the life in your years." - Abraham Lincoln

"Faith in God includes faith in His timing, faith in His purposes as well as in His timing. We cannot fully accept Him while rejecting His schedule. We cannot worship Him but insist on our plans." - Neal A. Maxwell.

"In the gosple of Jesus Christ, we have help from both sides of the viel. When disappointment and discouragement strike and they will we need to remember that if our eyes could be opened, we would see horses and chariots of fire as far as they eye can see, riding at great speed to come to our protection. They will always be there, these armies of heaven." - Jeffrey R. Holland

We all go through trials, of varying degrees at different times in our lives. I pray that we may remember that if we "search diligently, pray always, and be believing than all things shall work together for our good...." (D&C 90:24)

My thoughts and prayers are with my "uncle" Rex and "aunt" Marilyn and my "Wright cousins." (they are our "kind of" family, since my dad is an only child, his friends were our adopted relatives). I've been in and out of tears all day. Sometimes things just don't make sense. Hopefully someday it will. Just like our move to Idaho. I just don't understand why. We received an offer on our home, and I believe we will accept it. This trial is definately not what I asked for. Definately not on my "schedule," but I will go and do.... and some how this craziness will all "work out for our good." Loves to all of you...

Introducing - Miss Kiley Ann Johnson!!

2008-06-13T19:39:00.006-06:00

Here she is Miss Kiley! We haven't seen her eyes much - but we think that they are blue? She is a very content baby (YEA!) and her brother and sisters just can't get enough. I assure them that she will be with us tomorrow (and so on...) but they still all insist on their cuddle time. We are so happy that she is here and healthy! I don't know if you can tell in the picture, but her little right foot is "positional club foot." Which means her little foot got squished into this turned position, so she will be visiting a pediatric ortho. surgeon, on June 20th, who will put a cast on her foot, helping it back into the right "position." It worried me so much at first, but I have been assured that it is fixable, and she will be able to "someday" run, jump and dance just as good as everyone else. For right now, we just love this sweet little foot. I wish that she would show those cute dimples, but I just can't seem to click the picture fast enough - but I will! (just you wait) We sure love her, and can't wait until she gets to meet all of you!

SHE'S HERE!!!!

2008-06-08T21:29:00.004-06:00

She is here!! She was born at 6:00 pm, she is 7 lbs 10 oz, and 20 1/2 inches long. She has a darling little dimple on her left cheek, and dark hair. I can't tell eyes but they look like they will be blue! We are both doing great, and are so happy that it is over!

The other kids came up around 8:00 pm and gave her lots and lots of loves and kisses! Now we have until Tuesday to figure out what to call our newest little princess!

The miracle of birth is still so overwhelming to me. As they layed her on my tummy I couldn't help but get a little choked up! How blessed we feel to have another healthy "perfect" baby! Now Derek and I are ready for bed. He will go home and have the WHOLE house to himself, and a peaceful slumber, I will enjoy my hosptial "suite, until they kick me out on Tues. Loves and hugs!!

D- Day!!

2008-06-08T07:07:00.004-06:00

So... today is the DAY! Delivery Day that is.... After walking on the eliptical for 45 minutes, and bouncing on my "ball" for another 30 minutes, I finally went to bed around midnight. Unfortunately I spent the night kind of sick. I don't know why, but I feel fine now. The many perks of being induced are: planning - the kids are all at my parents, house is clean, I am packed. At 6:00 am, I get up and shower, I get to SHAVE and put on make-up! Everything is in order.... Unfortunately, I called the hospital at 6:30am, and they (sadly) tell me to call back at 7:30 am. So as I am waiting, what do I do.... BLOG! I am anxious and excited. Hopefully they will get me in quick, because I require a long day on pitocin. So, as it approaches 7:30, I will go do last minute things, make sure I have everything for the hospital stay! Tune in soon for an update! I will post the info and pictures as soon as I am home! Until then, loves and hugs!

The Johnson Castle

2008-05-28T22:16:00.006-06:00

Our house... in the middle of the street... our house....(you can sing along if you want to) ha ha. Well, we are in the middle of the selling quest. I'd say that it is going well, but I don't know if it is. I am the opposite of patient, so ... so it feels pretty slow to me. Although, it is okay, seeing that I am due to have #5 (yes still no name) in just 16 days. I am trying to convince my doctor to induce me on the 12th but he said that my body has to cooperate. (Which it's not very good at). I think that I'd be pregnant forever, .... I've been induced with all of them. You'd think by #5, that my body would have learned how to do this without gallons of pitocin... but I am doomed. I mean isn't a career change, packing up you home, or moving stressful enough to cause birth? I guess it's like we've said... our children are afraid to come to earth. I think during the last month, they are in counseling.. wondering if they are being sent to the right "johnson" home. They are trying to negotiate other living arrangements. (ha ha) We are excited... and nervous to, as I feel in limbo, as our lives are so CRAZY right now. (I am already crazy, so just imagine me now!) Any way, if you know anyone who wants to buy a fabulous home, and relieve a little stress from my life, go and visit our home's blog. It is herriman-home.blogspot.com If you've never been to my house, enjoy the tour.... and if you have been to my house, enjoy the visit!

Decisions and changes, and making plans

2008-05-11T21:40:00.005-06:00

As the saying goes, life is what happens while you are making plans. Well, my plans included, hanging out, doing some spring cleaning, and nesting before baby #5 (who still remains nameless, known by little Emmie as "sister") comes to join us in 4 weeks! (5 the way my body works)... yet, as it said "life happens," and we have decided that there is another path we must go on! We have decided to accept a GREAT job in Bosie Idaho, and move as soon as we can sell the Johnson castle!! (and as soon as the kids are out of school, and girls camp, and Youth Conference are over!)

The down side of course is leaving Utah. We are so sad to leave family, and dear friends, and yes I am sad to leave my house. I love my house! Isn't that silly? Even the things I don't love, I suddenly love! But, we must move forward. We are thinking positively, and I especially am, thinking, hey - maybe the stress of moving will cause me to have this little one on time! Wouldn't that be a novel idea?

So that is what is happening here. The past 3 months have been SOOOO LONG! I am finally feeling some sort of peace (I think?). I am grateful for prayer, friends, and for family support. I am thankful that people still like me still, especially over the past 3 months, when I have had days when I was an emotional mess, just so MAD and confused, and searching for answers and peace.

Today I had the first glimpse of peace! And to make it even better, today is mother's day, and I am so happy to be a mom. There's nothing better than the title of "mom", it truly is my best accomplishment ever, even if I'm still learning how to do it! So to all my sweet friends, happy mothers day, you are the best mom's I love and appreciate all of you! (and your sweet mom's too) I love you mom! And B,W, Z, and E, thanks for letting me be your mom! I am so lucky!

"Women Who Know"

2008-04-20T17:52:00.007-06:00

"I've heard it said, that people come into our lives for a reason, bringing something we must learn, and we are led to those who help us most to grow, if we let them, and we help them in return, now I DO KNOW and I BELIEVE that it is true, I know I'm who I am today because I knew you......I CAN say that I've been changed for the better... because I KNOW you, I have been changed for good......" (wicked, For Good)

I am so blessed to be friends with these AMAZING women! "Women who know," women who inspire me, uplift me, and motivate me.. Thank you my dear friends,... Erin, Jenny, Katie, Sarah, Diane, Christy, Cami, Jane, Jennie, LaDawn, and Erika!! It was such a wonderful weekend!! As usual, our time together went way to fast.... I love you so much, and am already counting down until next time we are together! Thank you for everything!! loves and hugs to all of you and your sweet families!

The Queen and 8 Princesses

2008-03-21T17:53:00.006-06:00

"The Queen" (my mom, Grandma V. ) loaded up her coaches (2 SUV's) and took all 8 of her grand-daughters - the future princesses, to Disney's Princesses on Ice. She even took her 5 own princesses too! (my 4 sisters and me!) We had a lovely time, complete with HUGE ice creams at Leatherby's. It was an afterfnoon that was truly magical.

Emmie was dressed for the part, even had some fancy hair! Even if we weren't sporting our fancy hair-do's, we all felt pretty royal! Thanks mom, grandma, Queenie!!

Spring

2008-03-07T11:30:00.001-07:00

Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

I believe in blessings, and hope, and new beginnings. The sun is shining, and it is beautiful outside! I love Spring, because everything seems to wake up from it's winter sleep. As the snow melts, new discoveries are revealed! For example, on our back lawn, we are amazed at all the "toys" that have been buried beneath a blanket of white! (not to mention many of the shingles of our roof, ha ha).
Spring means, new beginnings and fresh starts- hope, and change! . Time to put away the "winter" and welcome the "spring"! So often, the seasons of weather parallel our life. I am grateful for the "reminder" of the sun, and spring... that after "winters" -when we wonder if the snow will ever stop, we receive "spring"! A hope that sunnier days are on their way! YEA!! So hip hip hooray for sunnier days! Happy Spring to you all! And as Mark Twain said,...
It's spring fever.... You don't quite know what it is you DO want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!”

2008-02-26T22:06:00.000-07:00

"It isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out. Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. If we will put our trust in Him, if wewill pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers."
- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley (I sure love him, this is my new favorite thought!)

Being Grateful, in challenges

2008-02-25T10:02:00.003-07:00

Sometimes this blog is my emotional outlet..... today is one of those. The last 3 weeks have basically been the most challenging of our married life. One of those times, that I think defines you. Someone once said, "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." And so it has been for me, opportunity to grow, opportunity to reassess, opportunity to focus on what really matters. I am trying to remain positive and optimistic, and find strength in "simplifying" my life, and focusing on the "important" stuff. I've started reading a great book, Simplify, by Carolyn J. Rasmus. It is enlightening and impowering me right now.
I also find great strength in reading the Book of Mormon. I just finished 2 Nephi Chpt 5 where Nephi talks about all the things the people are doing, ...first there is so much adversity, his brethren are even going to kill him, so the Lord provides a way... he leaves, and Nephi's people are blessed and they prosper, they keep the commandments, they and build buildings, they work, they build temples, and then in verse 27 he says, "they lived after the manner of happiness." So following the "adversity" they did get to a state of happiness.

Alexandar Graham Bell wrote,

"When one door closes, another opens.

But we often look so regretfully upon the closed door

that we don't see the one that has opened for us."

Derek and I are looking for the opened door. I am sure that we soon will find it, I am confident that as we do all that we can that we will get to that "happiness."

Martha Washington said,

" I am determined to be cheerful and happy

in whatever situation I may find myself.

For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness

is determined not by our circumstances but by our disposition."

So we plug along, determined to stay optimistic,and we know that after the "storm" comes the "rainbow." I am mindful of my blessings, especially a wonderful husband,and great kids, who I adore! I find strength in family and wonderful friends. And I know, this too shall pass...... But I sure wish that it would hurry!! UG! love to you all!

The last place you look....

2008-02-16T16:23:00.003-07:00

Let me take you back in time... to December... the day of the Christmas Recital... as the girls were off at school, I went to get the costumes out to make sure that all the pieces were accounted for. ... Breilly's were all there, but Whitney's were GONE!! Seriously missing... SO the hunt began.... for the next 8 hours (as the kids were in school) I hunted, in around, on, through EVERYTHING I could think of. I was FREEKING out! I was crying, called my mom, sister, derek, anyone who cared. I hate to lose things, and this was no exception. I couldn't believe that it had disappeared! (and as you see the picture, can you believe that the neon green leotard could hide!!????!!) Anyway, When I picked the girls up from school, I proceeded to tell Whitney (through tears) that I had looked ALL day, and couldn't find her costume. She started crying to, and said, "I'll find it mom" but she couldn't either. That night she wore a black leotard, and a green tank top over it. She was a GREAT sport, but I felt rotten.

Dance pictures are next month, so I knew that I had to find it, in the next month. Today, it happened! Whit was looking for something under Breilly's bed... AND THERE IT WAS!!! YAHOO!! I'll tell you it was a miracle, because that truly is the last place I would have looked. I would have spent another long day looking through my halloween boxes, closets, and other places, and been unsuccessful. Anyway, it was a very happy moment, and now I am a firm believer that, it truly is ..."the last place you would look." HOORAY!!

The Budding Pianist!

2008-02-16T16:02:00.005-07:00

Breilly's first piano recital! She was a little nervous for her debut, but we couldn't have been more pleased with her performance!! She was FABULOUS!! (The best of the evening, yes we are biased!)

Sugar and Spice

2008-02-04T12:50:00.000-07:00

So for all those who "don't" know already,... another little lady will be joining our family! Zach will be double stuffed!! He is fine with it, as he declared, "I'm going to be spoiled huh mom?" as well as "I'm going to be crunched by girls!" I called my cute friend Natalie, to share the news, and she said, "We'll some middle children(which I happen to be) claim they are "forgotten," but with your only son being in the middle, he won't be able to say that!" We are all excited! And grateful that "she" looked great in the ultra-sound. (So the tech said, but to me those ultra-sound images, all look a little spooky!) When I was driving home the other day, I heard the great song "Daughters" , by John Mayer! It made me cry, as I just love the words,

"Father's be good to your daughters,

daughters will love like you do...

Girls become lovers, who turn into mothers,

so mothers be good to your daughters too!"

My own family growing up, had 5 girls 1 boy, and I know that my brother received plenty of love! I will continue to crush on my son, but now I am adding another beautiful daughter who I will adore, just like I do her sisters!! Now it's on to the quest of names, one that Derek and I always struggle with! (Suggestions are welcome) HOORAY FOR LITTLE LADIES!!

And the Baby is.......

2008-01-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday we had our ultra-sound. I am 20 weeks, yeah! Half way there!! We didn't tell the kids that we were finding out, just that I had an appointment. We've been telling the kids that "we" don't choose what baby comes to us, that Heavenly Father decides those things." They (even Zach) were good with whatever. Zach even said, "I don't care mom. I like girl and boy babies." Right now he doesn't care about much except his StarWars Video Game! He goes to bed talking about it, and wakes up ready to play! Anyway, we did find out, and we are all smiling. This little one will fit perfect in the Johnson Puzzle! If you want to know what it is... Is Zach double stuffed or will he get a buddy? Well, you'd better leave some comments, or email us to find out!! Have a great day!! loves

My "Gifts"

2008-01-14T19:15:00.000-07:00

So I recently watched a movie called "The Ultimate Gift" (wonderful movie) and I was thinking of what 12 gifts I have recently "learned/experienced:"
1. The Gift of Service - I've had so many people, some I don't even know very well, help me during my sick days of pregnancy. Some randomly bring by dinner (so that my family doesn't have to eat cereal again), some who offer to take the kids, some who just simply call and check on me. I have felt so thankful to be surrounded by such kindness and love.
2. The Gift of Friendship - I loved receiving all your Christmas cards, and catching up on lives and seeing your beautiful families. I definately have been blessed with wonderful friends!!
3. The Gift of Laughter - there's nothing like your little son saying, Hey mom, Dad's your honey huh? Hey when you go into Zuka Juice just tell them you need two, one big one for you and one big one for your honey, and then I'll drink it for dad. Okay?" Or Emmie being mad at me and saying, (in a VERY angry voice) I like you!!! (of course meaning she doesn't like me at that moment) and replying I love you too Em. (but I don't use the angry voice).
4. The Gift of Money - with another year starting. A new budget begins. Another attempt to do better this year. So far, so good! I appreciate being blessed with enough for our needs, even when our roof falls apart.
5. The Gift of Humility - Sunday I was just called to be the YW President in my ward. Need I say more? Luckily I will be surrounded by FABULOUS ladies, who will be my strength.
6. The Gift of Family - I am so thankful and grateful for the blessings that come from having a strong family foundation. Both Derek and I have such terrific families!! And our little gang is pretty awesome too!
7. The gift of Children - 4 wonderful children, each with different strenghts and different talents. Each fitting perfectly into our family puzzle. We know that this next little one, not matter the "flavor" will fit perfect into our puzzle.
8. The Gift of Health - now that I am feeling better (YEA!) I am so grateful for health, and also (knock on wood) that our little family has been very blessed in that department. I pray that this little one joining our family will also be healthy too!!
9. The Gift of Learning - I am on the quest this year to learn how to take better pictures, with my fancy new camera. I am committing to even taking a class. I also am so excited to be studying the Book of Mormon this year in Sunday School.
10. The Gift of Failure - Yes, that sounds weird, but it seems like the times that something doesn't work out, it makes me try again. I am pretty stubborn about not stopping until it's done "right."
11. The Gift of Love- I am in love, with my "honey" and 4 (almost 5) beautiful children. And even when I am the "wicked witch of the west" they love me back.
12. The Gift of a Perfect Day - what would that be....the other day we had a pretty perfect day. The kids played together, not much arguing, and we laughed alot. Not giggle but a full belly ha ha. Complete with tickles and wrestling. Finishing out the day with a trip to the "The Magic Forest,:" a night time story I have created, which Zach likes to help tell, and which "magically" helps the kids go to sleep.(Miss Whitney thinks she can't sleep without it). And then Magically they did go to sleep, early enough that Derek and I could relax and be together!

christmas wishes...

2008-01-07T17:57:00.001-07:00

Wow, I can't believe that the holidays are actually over.... Zach, asked if we could have Christmas EVERY day. I assured him that it wouldn't be so special if it happened EVERY day, and that it is Jesus' birthday only once a year. He thought about that and then said, "Then can it be my birthday every day?" (this made me laugh) Well, slowly, and hesitantly the decorations have been put away, and now the walls and shelves are dusted, and pieces are placed back into their "assigned" place, if you look around you almost wonder if Christmas really happened....but it did, and as usual, we were blessed beyond measure, and the Christmas magic filled the air. I wish I could bottle the feeling, the smells, of Christmas.. but until I figure out how to do that, here are a few of my favorite Magical Christmas moments....

The Christmas Story, puppet show.... Emily was the "baby Jesus."

Following the puppet show, we enjoyed the "live" production of the Christmas story.Complete with "baby" Jesus, played by my niece Bella.

And of course Christmas Eve wounldn't be complete without the "matching" Christmas PJ's!! Oh, I love Christmas!

Blowing into 2008

2008-01-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

I am just wondering what the rest of you were doing Saturday morning at 3:30am. Maybe, you were like me, feeling like the first little pig, as the big bad wolf was huffing and puffing, trying to blow my house down.... I almost thought that he might be successful. There was enough blowing outside that I "sprang from my bed, to see what was the matter." I went to the window to a scene from the wizard of Oz, also expecting to see things flying by, as Dorothy did - and I DID see things flying by our front window. What? Well besides the trash cans rolling down the street, pieces of our roof (the shingles) were flying one by two, by three, by.......many many many!! I went back to bed to tell Derek. The huffing and puffing had also awaken him, and he asked what I saw, and I told him, our roof is falling apart, it is flying away.

Now it is about 4:30, and he is now up, and we have no clue what to do, and so after a few calls, we decide there is only one thing to do, try to go back to bed. I plugged my ears and eventually drifted off, Derek continued to listen to the howling wind. When morning came Derek went out to assess the damage, which was more that we'd hoped, as our front tree and yard (as well as other neighbors trees and yards, were now decorated with the shingles off our roof.

Thank goodness for kind neighbors, who came to our aid, to offer ideas, solutions, and comfort. So as I said we are "blowing" into 2008!! Just when you think you can ease into a new year, the fun has just begun!! We are off and flying.... I am excited for the adventures that I know this year has in store for us! Life is so exciting, and fun, even when the wolf is huffing and puffing, he didn't blow our house down, so all is well. Happy 2008!

This is one of the piles of shingles, we have several of these. This is the top of our house, and I couldn't do it justice. This is a neighbors tree (down the street) where I spotted another one of our shingles. (You have to look closely - I was a little to far away to do it justice).

P.S. If you find shingles in your tree, just let us know. Derek is pretty good at getting them out!

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-12-07T21:27:00.001-07:00

My favorite Christmas decoration

2007-12-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

Every Christmas, my mom would hang up "the big Advent" calendar. Growing up, we all thought that it was cool.. We loved turning over the felt, hand-made ornaments, which would then reveal a Christmas symbol, and tucked neatly inside was a typed description of the significance and purpose for this Christmas token. Year after year, we would turn and read, usually fighting over whose turn it was, not noticing how the elaborate details of each of the tiny "ornaments."

The calendar was given to Mom by Grandma Vreeken who made it herself. Supposedly she had seen something like it in the window of a Store Window (possibly ZCMI), and it was way to pricey to purchase, and my "Martha Stewart" grandma thought, why I could make that, and she did! She made 25 little delicate and intricate ornaments, and hung them on a tree. She made it for her Grandchildren to enjoy. Enjoy we did, year after year, and it still hangs in my mom's front room each Christmas. Well, a couple of years ago, my sisters and I decided "WE" wanted a calendar for our own families, (to enjoy)! So our quest began. What we thought would take a day, turned into hundreds, (I'm not kidding, ask my cute sister in law - who after a while thought we were nuts, and we had to convince her that everyone needed one in their house), yes hundreds of hours to make. As we "copied" each ornament, cutting each little detail out of felt, we learned really how much our Grandma loved us, and loved our mom. (We all joked that we couldn't imagine making something like this for our daughter-in-law, ha ha). We already knew that Grandma never did something at the accepted level, she always went above and beyond, exceeding all expectations.

Well, When we finally finished the calendar, I came to some conclusions; first, that I wasn't going to make another one of these (atleast not until my daughters "need" one in their homes). Second, that my grandma was simply incredible, amazing, and so extremely talented!!! Third, that I couldn't wait to hang it up, and start turning over each ornament, and reading the stories, which remind me of her! She loved Christmas, she loved family, she loved tradition. So, this is my favorite Christmas decoration. My children probably think as I do, yes it's cool, but someday they will understand and learn as I did, that this calendar is far more than a decoration. It is love, it is family, it is tradition. It is Christmas!!

PS. If you want me to make you one, just let me know... ha ha just kidding....

Thanksgiving in Colorado

2007-11-30T19:54:00.000-07:00

For Thanksgiving we went and visited my brother (JD) and my sister (Jacque) and their families in Cortez Colorado. We had such a great time being together, and so much fun "playing" on their property. Here are some pictures of my brothers home, and surrounding property. It is so "dreamy" and so much fun.... I can only dream of having land, a pond, a HUGE playhouse, and even a henny (a cross between a horse and donkey). Needless to say, the kids also now think that it would be GREAT to have all these fun things too!! Luckily, we have a really great place to go and visit.... can't wait to go in the summer where they swing out and into the pond!!

grandpa and Zach and Em The view from the house of the pond & playhouse

Whitney swinging and Breilly swinging. They jump off the platform up in the treehouse!!

Rosebud the "henny" and his stable. Derek and the kids in the canoe. And on the 4 wheelers. My brother has about 15 acres, so much fun!! It was a great get-a-way for all of us, it's amazing that how driving 6 hours can put you in another "world." So greatful for a "break" from the crazy Johnson home, although it is always nice to be back, in your own bed!

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-11-27T14:06:00.001-07:00

YOU DID WHAT??????

2007-11-17T19:29:00.001-07:00

Last night I had one of those ugly parent moments. Those moments actually when you don't want to be a parent, at least not of the "naughty" child!! It was one of those, "are you serious, YOU DID WHAT?

We should have all been suspicious when the two little ladies quietly disappeared into the adjoining room and closed the door. But we were socializing, and enjoying a night with friends and their kids (which may now be our last, ha ha) , everyone was having a good time, and really what bad things could happen, we were right there!. Yet it did. They came out and it was written all over their faces. Okay not their faces, but, it was evident by the missing chunk of hair by our friends child.

I anxiously took Whitney into the next room to have a little chat. When I confronted her, she blankly looked, and didn't respond. *(definitely, not how I thought she should, in this case). I wanted tears, remorse, sadness, even fear.... what did we get? Nothing. I thought, maybe a little spanking will help, but would that help me release my anger, or her release her remorse. Isn't that horrible? To be disappointed that your child isn't all destroyed with their "sin." I wonder if that is how Heavenly Father feels when we don't respond how he thinks we should when we do something "naughty?" I'm pretty sure he'd like to throw me over his knee every once in a while and teach me a little lesson.....

So then all we can do is try to teach the glorious thing called "consequences." The consequences to this was; that we all left the "party," and Whitney then was to have a day without all the things she loves, she would be grounded for the entire day. Wow, it's been a long day, especially for me. Whitney is still plugging along. (Again not responding how I thought she would, no tears, no remorse, no nothing). Hopefully, she is beginning to understand you ultimately choose your consequences by your actions. (A process we constantly learn, right).

Anyway, someone asked me why Whitney is absent from the "leaf/ fall" pictures (below) that were taken earlier today, and this is why. However, if you could look really close, and into the window, you would see that Whitney is there watching from the sidelines. (Reminds me of when I was young and grounded, and I watched out the window while all the kids played without me. I learned a lot that day (actually I was grounded an entire week!!) Hopefully Whitney will have learned something too. Thank goodness that tomorrow, is a new day, one that she (and I) anxiously await.

Sorry Jocelyn, Thank goodness that hair grows back!

Halloween

2007-11-17T14:22:00.000-07:00

Our Trip to the Pumpkin Patch!! We had fun, and the kids picked out some great Pumpkins!

Then when we got them home, of course the carving began, I don't know which are spookier, the pumpkins on the table or the ones under it.

So like it says in the song.... "We're off to see the wizard..." We had an overly successful Halloween, as I still have bags and bags and bags of candy!!

Fall Fun

2007-11-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

We decided that we couldn't resist a little fun in the leaves!!! So amidst the raking, the kids took a little break for a leaf shower!!

They threw so many leaves into the air that it was a blizzard of leaves!! They also buried each other, Emily didn't really like the itchy leaves.

Like this pile of leaves that fell from the tree, I am reminded, at this Thanksgiving Holiday, of my many blessings. One of the greatest blessings in my life are my children, those 4 that are here, and the new one to come! And also, one of the things I am most thankful for this year is Thanksgiving because if it is here that means I'm that much closer to feeling better!! Each week that passes means I am closer to relief!! Since I am usually quite sick until week 18, each week that I "survive" is a blessing.

So, a quick and silly Thankful list:
10. I am thankful that Derek doesn't have to travel anymore. (hooray for self-employment)
9. I am thankful that the Melanoma is gone.
8. I am thankful that we are being blessed with another little person. (Either Zach will be double stuffed or he will have a little brother).
7. I am thankful that I have such wonderful friends.
6. I am thankful for my supportive family.
5. I am thankful that we have the gospel, the scriptures, and for my testimony.
4. I am thankful that I am not a pioneer, because I would have died by now. (or been tied to the back of the wagon, because I am so blind without my contact lenses, which by the way I am so thankful for too!!)
3. I am thankful for health, which you don't appreciate until you feel crummy. (like now)
2. I am thankful for blogs which help me feel connected to my fun friends and family.
1. I am thankful for modern conveniences (like air fresheners -which save my life, since my nose is the size of a house! At least my sense of smell is!)

Am I.........

2007-11-12T21:51:00.000-07:00

son: hey mom are you going to be sick forever?

me: no honey, not forever, don't worry, I'll be alright.

neighbor: hey I heard you've been sick alot. Are you okay?

me: Ya, don't worry, I'll be alright.

neighbor 2: Hey Your son told me that you throw up all day, and that you are going to the "throw-up" doctor...... are you....

me: what? don't worry Its nothing, I'll be alright.

neighbor 3: Hey your daughter told us that you have a special family secret... that she can't tell until Christmas.... are you....

me: what, it's nothing.....

neighbor 4: Hey my husband said he saw your husband and all the kids at McDonalds last night without you. And, he took them to the ward activity without you, and church without you...... are you.....

AM I WHAT??????? I am sure you all have a great answer for this question. And I bet most of you have the right prognosis for my illness...... I usually try to pretend that I'm alright atleat for 20 weeks, but this time I GIVE UP!! I am in my 10th week and sicker than ever! I am loving the ZOFRAN, although it seems less effective than it has been in the past. I still am hugging the big white basin in the bathroom, daily..... and an occasionaly tree as I am running errands. So if you see me on the side of the road, don't be alarmed... my kids aren't anymore. . . they think it's part of the agenda now..and incase you are wondering.. AM I? YES!

2007-11-09T18:26:00.000-07:00

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