THE MADDOX'S

Where did the year go...

2012-01-23T12:56:00.000-08:00

I have been soo busy and have forgotten all about my blog...Its already a new Year and so much as happened!! My little one is now 18 months (almost) and I will soon have a 8 yr old..on the 7th of Feb. and a pre-teen..ahhhhh!!! WOW, am I that old?! I still can't believe that I am in my early 30's..weird!

SO I will be a proud Aunt to 3, yes 3 neices/nephews this coming summer..I am SOO EXCITED!! I love babies..I now get to watch a 4 month old, and get my baby fix....then send her home! and of course a little extra dough on the side ;)

Shelby is clogging and LOVES it!! She is so good at it and does very well! She loves to read books all the time, she's our shy, girly girl! Love her tons

Conner-man is loving school and does very well, except for the talking...which is crazy, I don't see him talking that much....LOL (yeah right). Though this is what his teacher said, he talks and talks..yet still manages to get ALL his school work done..hmmm

Mak is our crazy full of personality.. she is full of it!!! She keeps us on our toes!! She loves dancing around and playing with whom ever plays with her!!

Kolton is walking and chabbering all the time! He thinks he's the MAN of his brother and sisters..He is so fun I love this age!!!
Quinn and I are calling-less!! I can't believe it, I haven't been to Relief Society in ages!! I am excited to enjoy it though, Kolton will be headed into Nursery next month YAY! hehe.. I am grateful for my kiddo's and their personalities! They truley are the best things in life!!!

I have an amazing Hubby too..works hard so I can stay home with the kids! Love him!

Summer is coming...

2011-05-03T08:30:00.001-07:00

Here is the kids in their Easter sunday clothes..

I can't believe that school will be out here in the next 18 days..I think this is the earliest they have ever been out!! Usally not until June. So this is nice, I sure hope the weather keeps like it is.. starting to get green around here, and the temps have gotten a bit higher!! wahoo!!! I am looking forward to summer vacations, going to the pool, relaxing..baseball games, dance performances..I just can't believe we are in May now.! Time flys by way to fast, or maybe my life is in fast mode..:) haha. My little KJ is getting so big, he will be 1 yrs old this Aug. WOW.. he was just born I swear a few months ago..;)

I love my kiddo's and greatful for their sweet spirits. They grow up so fast, too fast!

My baby girl is turning 10!!!!

2011-03-14T16:37:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that my Lil shelbs is turning 10 tomorrow. The time has flown by way to fast, I can remember when I brought her home..So small and tiny. Now she is growing and becoming a sweet little young lady!

I love ya shelbs. You are the greatest gift that Our Heavenly Father sent to us 10 yrs ago!!! We are proud of all you do, and proud of all the accomplishments you strive to do every day.

Just Thinking...

2011-01-24T18:40:00.000-08:00

I was on my facebook and looking at people's post and their comments, I ran across my cousins who's post are no longer available... I was looking at her pictures and got teary eyed..Maybe its because of all that's been going on, or what has gone on.. I guess I just thought about how she is up there in Heaven and is free!! She has many whom love her and miss her, it hit me though, how she struggled so many, many years and how she braved this world and braved her sickness and her time came to go live with our Heavenly Father..I think of him so much, I think of how he loves ALL of his children and how we need to get our lives put together so we can come home to him again!

Maybe these feelings are just the Holy Ghost being with me, I have much to work on and much to teach to my kids.. in so little of time. My mother-in-laws cancer, my sweet sister who struggles. It just makes me THINK...sometimes too much thinking.

My kids have been sick with colds, and flu..I always, ALWAYS get so stressed out,and feel like I can't handle it... my Amazing husband has been helping me out, he is terrific. I love him so much!!! My life is great and I am grateful for family friends and well, everyone who always has a wonderful spirit about them.. I guess I try to figure out things that are over my head, why? I think sometimes I just need to relax and work on my "stuff" and help my kids' with their "stuff" and do what my Heavenly Father WANTs me to do! Trust and Faith... it seems easier said than done.. :)

Always great NEWS!!!

2011-01-15T16:13:00.000-08:00

So I think this is great news! My mother in-law is DONE with chemo..and was done with radiation this last friday! WAHOO.... Hopefully in the next few weeks she will start feeling like herself again! Then they will be going in and checking in April, to see if the cancer is gone..(which it will be, fingers crossed) .

I knew she could pull through this and that she could handle the chemo and radiation..I sure don't know many people who could've done as well as she has! I know I couldn't. The doctor's told her that she will live to be an old age!!! Shelby, is so glad, she has had a hard time dealing with this and I know she can now go to school and not worry about her grandma anymore.. She is very close to her and loves her grandma!!

On the other hand, My dad has chosen to get re-baptised!!!!!!!!! Yippie!!! I am so greatful for the Holy Ghost, and that it can help us make wonderful choices if we choose to follow it! He has made a tremendous step in his life! I am so glad, We could not go down this week as Quinn had to work. But I hope he knows we love him, and are happy he chose to become a member of the Church of Latter Day Saints, again!! We love you dad, and are happy to see you back! Love you tons!

Here we come 2011..!!!

2010-12-29T13:38:00.000-08:00

Wow, time sure flys by when your busy and having kids..lol! I can't believe its another new year..I hope I can accomplish the things this year.. I really need to lose some unwanted weight since...oh, Makayla was born! I guess I just need to get motivated and get'r done ;)

I am blessed for a wonderful family we have, I'm excited to have a reunion this upcoming year, spending time with family and friends. Also good news to my mother-in-law..the doctor's gave her a prognosis that it looks really good after all the chemo and radiation! WAHOOO!!!!

Good news all around the Maddox family! I am grateful for a hubby and children who choose the right and want to do the right.. well most of the time, THEY'RE kids!!! (yes the hubby too) . I need to post some pic's, as soon as I get my little disk to do it I will!

I hope everyone a Happy NEW YEAR and wish you all the best to come!!!!!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-14T20:30:00.000-08:00

I would like to say to everyone, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! I hope everyone has a joyable day with friends and family. I can't believe how it keeps sneeking up on me..next week will be hecktic but fun! The kids don't get out til NEXT tue!! Yes, I said NEXT tue. Which they have parties that I supposely signed up for, and signed up for both classes.. oh well. The kids are excited!!

So much seems to be happening this Christmas time. Good and not so good.., but with faith and our Savior Jesus Christ, we can find peace and happiness. I am grateful for all that I have, a warm home, food, clothes, childern whom are healthy and happy, and a husband who supports me in all I do, and supports us financially. I have it made!!! All I want for christmas this year is to see my family happy and the joy of smiles and laughter fill the house! I am looking forward to baking with my childern and hope that I can start a tradition with them!

This past sunday, we had an unexpected knock at the door.. which was a gift left on our door step with the "first day of christmas" sign on the gift.. The kids were so excited and couldn't believe someone would leave us something for us to share in. The next day we had a ring at the door and another gift of "second day of christmas".. I've never been a part of a 12 days of christmas..

I am so blessed and grateful to whomever thought of our family this season and to share something amazing. I still don't know who it is. they sure do run extremely fast!
THANK YOU for giving a gift of kindness and thoughtfullness to our family, whomever you are, and MERRY CHRISTMAS !!!

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and more to come! I am very blessed with kids who don't ask for much and appreciate the things they do get. I love them so much and I'm so grateful for my family and my mom who is the GREATEST person I know! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH MOM!! I LOVE my mother-in-law too, who has a strong spirit and is fighting this Cancer as best as she can, and she is so strong!

Kolton and Mac

2010-10-25T08:24:00.000-07:00

Makayla loves to read to Kolton

He already knows who his sister is

So Cute!!

Kolton after is bath

He's such a Lil chubba!

I swear after each kid, the pictures seem to get less and less. I feel awful but at least they have a few. I love this Lil man, he is getting so big so fast! I have some friends in our Ward, and they all are or had a baby... and they have all been BOYS!! I think its in the water. he he. But it's true, when one of us gets prego, it seems like two or more will be too. And usually we all end up having the same.. I don't mind, it's actually great, then they all will have someone to play with!! I love it!

2 months... already!!! :(

2010-10-16T22:23:00.000-07:00

Chubby lil' man

Grandma Maddox and Kolton

Kolton 1month 1/2 Kolton 1month
Grandpa and Kolton

WOW, where did the time go? I swear I was pregnant FOREVER..and the time he's been here is going by REALLY fast!
My little man is getting so big, he is filling out all over.. I love it!!!! But I don't love the fact he's growing up extremely fast.. I am definitely loving on him every sec. I get. I know, he is going to be one spoiled little man.. but I keep telling myself he's my last. ;)

Here are some pic's of him.. and of grandma and papa maddox!

Update..

2010-10-01T10:38:00.000-07:00

So we found out today that linda has cancer in the throat. the biopsy done on the tonsil was stage 1 cancer..the cancer on her lymph nod is stage 3..(not so good)..But with high hopes and much prayers she will pull through!!! She goes in next to have some dental work done by the following week she will go and have 7 weeks of chemo and radiation thats localized just for the throat..

They did spot something on her lungs, but think its just an infection..we will know more about it hopefully today.. keep your thoughts and prayers with her and frank and her kids at this time!! We love you Linda!

To have Faith....

2010-09-26T14:04:00.000-07:00

Since the little one came, I haven't kept up on my blog..so I am doing it now, We've had a bump in the road this last week with news thats like a mountain... You never think things like this will happen in your family and when it does it seems strange and almost like a nightmare., when in reality it came true.

My mother -in-law, linda went in to have her tonsils removed, he noticed a lump on her lymph nodes and didn't remove it, instead he did a biopsy.. it came back as cancer. WOW, those words 6 words when I found out were heart wrenching.. my heart felt like it dropped down in my stomach...

Today we did a family fast for her, tomorrow she goes in for testing, and we hopefully will know more about it later on in the week. We need FAITH in our Heavenly Father. I need to keep that faith in myself also.. Faith is such a huge part of this earthly life. I remember having much faith when my little shelby was born. I knew she was in good hands, with great doctors and a Heavenly Father who loved her. I remember so well, how I left it all up to him, it was in his hands..I had much faith.. and now she is a beautiful 9 yr old little girl with much to offer. I sometimes wonder where did that great faith come from..

My heart aches for my mother in law, she has been up and down on a roller coaster this year, with so much going on.. I know I need to keep my faith growing strong for myself, my children, and family.. We love you Linda, and know that you have wonderful doctors who can help beat this cancer.. you have kids, and grandkids and daughter in laws who love you very much and will do what ever they can to help you in this time of need.. you are in our thoughts and in our prayers daily!

When it rains... it pours.

2010-07-06T12:38:00.000-07:00

Everyone has trials at some point in their lives.. and it seems like our family is sure going through them lately.

My mom has gallstones, and has to have surgery soon to remove her Gall bladder.. I feel awful at times like these, especially when we should be closer together so we can help out! I would love to go down there and help her out when she has it done, but I'm in a situation where I can't be traveling long distances... (don't want to have a baby in the car). I miss that I can't just hop in the car and drive a few min. to see my mom!! I know she misses her other two girls not being close.

We're having to sell our trailer and our car, which we really don't want to sell the trailer, we wish that the car would have sold quicker so we didn't have to sell the trailer..but it will all be fine, we still have a tent and if the kids and Quinn want to go camping, thats the REAL way of true camping!!! LOL.. The kids don't know the true meaning of REAL camping anyways... hee hee.

I know that my partrichal blessing says I have much faith, lately I feel like I don't have it.. which probably means I need to have the faith in our Heavenly Father and believe that he knows what is best for us! I pray to have that faith, and know that things will be ok, Why is it so hard? I just don't want to slip away from his presence when I really need him the most. He is always there for me and my family.. I also need to start teaching my children that we need our Heavenly Father and know that he will protect us if we have FAITH! He is real and he is there, but if we don't do our part, why should he? I know this, but I guess the worldly aspect has me more... I have many faults that I have and they seem to catch up to me when I feel like there's no hope ...

Life is just this, this life is nor here nor there, its a life that we have chosen and its a choice we made in the pre-existance.. I know I made that choice, I need now to use it wisely and mark that path in the right way, Oh how satan tempts us when our hopes our down, and how convincing he is in so many wrong ways... he wants us to believe that misery is better than happiness.

I know that I have fallen off that straight and narrow path... Shelby TOLD me the other day that she wished that everyone in Buffalo would just be worthy and make good choices.. she told me she couldn't wait til she could go back to live with her Heavenly Father so those choices wouldn't be around her...! She then asked me, "mom can't you wait too"? I told her Oh shelby I wish for that too, but deep down inside, I knew I wasn't ready to make that choice.. I guess theres somethings I need to change before I can really say.. " Oh how I can't wait for that day". My childern teach ME everyday,. they help Me to make good choices, when I guess it should be the other way around. I am grateful for shelby and how she knows what choices she needs to make, in order to be with our Heavenly Father again~

Summer Time..

2010-06-19T21:34:00.000-07:00

This Month has flown by very quickly. I can't believe its already the middle/end of June. I have until Aug. 31st til I have my scheduled c-section date!!! I am so excited to meet this little guy.

We've all agreed on the name Colton James Maddox... I think it fits very well. Makayla is hilarious, when it's time for bed she gives me a hug and kiss, then she gives my belly a hug and kiss and says, "Good night, Colton James"!!! HAHA its so darn cute to hear her say those loving words.

The kids are glad to be off, but I think a bit board at times, Conner, I signed him up for a summer camp thats 3 weeks long.. and free through the school. He LOVES it!! already had his first week and can't wait to go back on Monday. Shelby will start a Summer reading/math program in a few weeks she is excited about it!! Me and mac are hangin' out and going to the library to read.. she loves it! I will stop working in July, to much on my feet.. Don't want to go into early labor if I can help it.
Quinn is working hard, and is getting our yard somewhat ready to finish..though its taking us a while to finish... but it will get done sooner or later.

My mom and ash came up to visit last weekend and we had a blast, she ended up leaving on mon. and ash stayed to help watch shayes kids while she went to girls camp..it was a blast having her here!! I miss them so much, though my mom will be coming back up in July to watch shayes kids while she goes on the Trek for the church..( i've never been and it sounds like an amazing adventure)!! Then she's coming back up in Aug. when the baby comes!!! WOW, lots of traveling for her..but thankful for all she does for us!!! Love you mom!!!!

Family is the best thing ever!! Sometimes I feel like I should do more to help out with my sister and her kids, but lately I just don't have the energy to handle my own 3... Though, hopefully I'll start getting some more energy back when baby comes...!

Conner is very excited about tomorrow for church, he passed off 3 of the songs to "follow the Prophet", and he's getting a big cookie.. he can't wait! I'm very proud of him passing the songs off, he really wanted that treat pretty bad I guess LOL!

Small Vacation..Lots of fun!

2010-04-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

Ok I know I should post some pics of our trip..I can't find the camera...! We had a great time visiting with my mom in utah! We spent a few days with her..and Oh how I miss her so much! She trys her hardest to get us to move back closer to her..thats all up to Quinn of course!!! I could move closer to home!!!

We went to movies, dinner, lunch, shopping..so much fun with my sisters and mom!!! I love hangin' out with them.

We then headed for St. George to visit Quinn's parents where the first two days were cool, but was a blast to be down and visit with them!! We went swimming and out to eat..shelby learned how to make a apron that Grandma showed her how to do! She was so excited when she finished it! Grandma also made her a dress and Makayla a dress!! She sure knows her stuff, what a great and wonderful grandma who makes beautiful dresses for her grandaughters!!!

We then met up with my dad in St. George and spent the day with him at a Fiesta play place..the kids had a blast!!! Grandpa sure spoils them .. He was able to take Conner and Shelby home with him for the night..They were so excited to go ! We picked them up the next day and then headed back to St.George for the last night!! We got to see Quinns brother and his family... it was great to see everyone.(missed scott and his fam). It was great!!! The kids had tons of fun on our trip and it was great to see EVERYONE!!! Thanks everybody for letting us stay and hang out!! I will post pics sooon!!!!!!

Oh its been waaaay to long...

2010-03-15T17:34:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how time flys.. the last time I wrote was in Dec.!!? WOW, I am not doing so hot! So much has happened the last few months.. Conner turned 6 in Feb. Shelby turned 9..well today!! (happy b-day) and Makayla turns 3 in May!!

We are going to go down to slc in two weeks and I am so excited to have a little vacation! We will go visit my mom and Quinn and shelby will get to go to Conference, which she is excited to see the prophet! I am glad she is! Then we will go visit Quinn's folks down in St. George and then see my dad! I can't wait it will be a nice little break.

I am expecting.. yet again and the last!!! (hee hee) This is the last baby for our family. We are excited to find out what it is in May. We have taken a poll on what everyone thinks its going to be, actually what they hope it will be. Conner really wants a brother, and of course shelby wants another sister... ! We are very excited and can't wait to meet this little spirit!

Have a very Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-18T18:53:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for loved ones and family!!! I love this time of year, especially when its all about the Savior! I wish I could surround myself more around him, not just at christmas time!

I am very proud of my childern this christmas. They have been very good about not asking for the "world" they wrote down three things they wanted for themselvcs and three things they could give away to someone else... ( I had no say in it..) I was so proud of them! They are the best kids ever! I am grateful for wonderful christ-like childern. I hope they know that they are the world to me.. all I asked this christmas was for family to be together and enjoy everyones company! I just love to see the looks on their faces christmas morning...its the BEST!!!

Have a Merry Christmas everyone...and enjoy this season with loved ones around you~
The Maddox fam.

Already FALL 'Ya'll

2009-11-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

Conner GI Joe, Shelby a vampire, and Makayla a kitty...Happy Halloween 09.WOW how time flys by...I have been slacking on the blog, I haven't been on here since the beginning of the summer!! Now its FALL... The kids had so much fun trick r treating this year.. Makayla loved being in her costume. The kids were very excited about dressing not only once this year, but twice... the first was at school on friday, and then our trunk r treating at the church on sat.! They had tons of fun, and CANDY!!!

I heard of an awesome way to get rid of most of the candy..SEND it to the TROOPS!!!which is a good idea when you have TWO BOWLs of CANDY!!!! Yeah, too much for this house... ! Though, quinn loves him some candy...he takes it to work which is fine by me!! though, it doesn't tempt me very much...I am more of a bake goods kinda girl!! (WHICH ISN"T GOOD FOR ME AT ALL!!)
I hope I will keep up on my blog a little bit better now that things aren't so crazy..well less crazy any ways~

2009-09-07T13:39:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

??? (couldn't think of a title..)

2009-08-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know that teenagers get acne..I did! But why in the heck do I STILL HAVE IT!!!! Adult acne; why? I was looking forward to getting a bit older, just for the reason that my acne would go away...WRONG!

So I am trying soo many different kinds of acne meds. but they don't seem to work..I guess the best thing to do is go into a dermetologist... I hope my kids don't get my acne prone skin...sorry kids..hope by then they come out with some awesome new thing! LOL... I would love to try the acne laser..I wonder if it works though? Just like everything else, they sure make it sound great, and inviting. I guess I need to do some searching on it!
Thank goodness for Dr.'s!!!! I'm sure they'll have something right for me!

Oh I WILL post some pic's from my sister-in-laws wedding!!! Oh how the girls looked so sweet in their dresses and the boys in their ties... LOVE IT!!

gotta have faith..

2009-07-28T20:01:00.001-07:00

Ok, I am just venting here...I just added up all of our medical, dental and everyother kind of bill and I am sick of bills and why they won't go away...how does everyone seem to get around all of their bills? I mean, we have insurance(thanks goodness) but still I am worried all the time, and frustrated...I pay our tithing and it seems like it never ends... I know have a little faith.

my patriarchal blessing says I have "much faith"....um, where did it go?

Life would be simpler if bills didn't exsist..haha . So we've down graded or I should say excluded some things we DON'T NEED... like; cable.. internet, and now on a budget..the prophet has always told us to keep a budget and stay with-in your means.... I guess this is would be the best for us..and for the kids....! sorry for whomever read this...just venting- I love my kids and husband and glad for the gospel in my life, thats one thing I am sure glad for. blessings, blessings and yes blessings I have many-

Our New puppy

2009-07-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

awww......

Makayla loves this dog!!! Not affraid at all!!!(thats a good thing,right?)

Here is our newest addition to the family..."GOOSE", I know

nice name uh! Quinn chose it! The kids were wanting to call him marley... but it sure didn't stick.

Conner actually liked the dog when he was small...not so much now!

SUMMER!!!

2009-07-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how this year has gone and actually is almost over! I think its because of all the rain we've had ( not complaining), (well a little) that the summer has flown by so fast.

Both of my oldest two will be going to school ALL DAY!!! (YIPPE) lol, just kidding.. I actually can't believe Conner is going to Kindergarten!? WOW, is he that old already? Here in wyoming, they go all day... we'll see how he does his first week!!

So it will be justs Makayla and I at home... how fun! Potty training here we come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
She's our most stubborn little girl, I hope I have the patients to get through a day.

I can't wait til Aug. We will be going down to SLC. for a vacation/wedding/vacation...haha. I am so excited and can't wait. Quinn gets to come down for a whole week, ya I said a whole week with me!!! Yah! that week he only works a wed/thurs. so he just has to take off 2 days.. thats not too bad.

I'm hoping we can take the kids to Lagoon, and well maybe to the zoo too! Quinn's sister is getting married!!! So we will be going to that and seeing his brothers whom he hasn't seen for a very long time!!! It will be so fun to see them all it sure has been a while since we were ALL together!! 3 yrs at the LEAST. We're all over the place now, so its sure hard to catch up with everyone and getting things planned out.

Well I'm officially on a weight loss program here in Buffalo, they're doing a "Biggest loser" contest which runs for 12 weeks.. Its a great way to boost yourself and get going... we weight in every tue. So its really a motivation... because if ya gain weight its $1.00 per lb. you gain.!!! thats motivation right there for me!!! lol

Shelby's Baptisim..

2009-06-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

WOW Scriptures from my Grandma "D"!!!

and my look says it all!!!!!!!!

I have wonderful grandmas and grandpas who love me dearly!!!!!

Grandma maddox and me!! (so cute)

conner, Julia, michael and makayla.. both loved
aunt Julia's fina'ce!!!!

My beautiful 8 yr. old Girl!!!

all the kids excited to see shelby

shelby so excited to get baptised!!

Shelby and Dad

What a cutie!

Two yrs old?

2009-05-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

she is starting to say: "CHEEEEESE".
I can't believe how time flys on by, I remember bringing her home... now she's all over the place and talking up a storm, Makayla loves everything, she loves her big sister and brother, she is NOT a shy little girl, sometimes she can be, but then it all comes out.... haha, she sure loves to try everything out like her sis/bro. she wants to do everything they do. She's a joy in our home-

opening her first present.... and the next pic. says it all...

her expressions says it all!!! Really excited about her new toy puppy..

she "loved" the puppy she's giving loves

Sorry everyone, conner was hyped up

she sure didn't want conner taking anything-

she blew her candle out 3 times before we started to sing...

yummy chocolate cake

Oh I need thee every Hour.....

2009-05-13T08:45:00.000-07:00

Its crazy how life gets so fast and theres not enough time in the day... I remember though when I went to time out for women, there was a quote said, (i can't remember who) but it hit me like a ton of bricks... it went something like this: " Sometimes we feel like theres not enough time in one day, But equally we all have the same amount of time, its how we use it"... WOW, I guess it really puts things in perspective on how I use my time...

I need thee "every" hour, I guess I sometimes don't use my time the way I should and before I know it, its the end of the day... Sometimes it gets so crazy I can't even remember what I actually did that Counted!
I guess that means I'm not using it very wisely... at least sometimes. I've really sat back and thought to myself what would make my day count, and actually have a memory of what I did. Spending more time with my kids and teaching them the gospel... Lately our house doesn't feel very welcoming... even just the small things by saying our prayers as a family would be wonderful... I guess its a cop out when I say I'm too tired tonight, I just want to put the kids to bed!!! I am grateful that I can go to my Heavenly Father "Whenever" and talk to him... because I know he is listening-

Time Out For Women... just the girls

2009-05-07T11:54:00.000-07:00

Mom took this picture of us after we ate lunch..
Can you tell we had TONS of FUN!! And yes,
I am in there somewhere..lol

Saturday

Taking a break during "Time out for women"

Ok, this was the best weekend EVER!!! I laughed, I cried, and laughed some more... If any ones gets the opportunity to go to a "Time Out For Women" ... you'll never be sorry again. It is amazing, the speakers lift your spirits and give you a feeling of well being- I could enjoy it every weekend!!
We spent the weekend up in Billings, Mt. to see wonderful speakers, like; Hilary Weeks, WONDERFUL!!! Jenny Oaks Baker... WOW!!! ( yes she's the daughter of Dallin H. Oaks) She played the Violen and it was AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!! Better than Awesome it was WOW!!!!!
There were other great speakers as well, I enjoyed the speakers as well as the companionship of my sisters and mom.. We've never done anything like this before and I can't wait until the next time.....

Shelby's B-day

2009-04-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

Yummy...

I think makayla wants to dig in that cake!!!

I can't believe she is "8" WOW how time flys... She had a small birthday, but thats ok, she said; I'm having everyone come up when I get baptised in June. That will be my day". That sure will be too.

EASTER FUN

2009-04-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Conner getting excited to do another egg.

Here is shelby showing her beautiful Easter eggHere is Makayla looking at the egg changing colors.

The kids had lot of fun coloring eggs... We decided to color them on Friday, since they were out of school. They all got to do two easter egg hunts this year... WOW (way to much candy)... lol

Family Time...

2009-03-30T12:41:00.000-07:00

Oh what a wonderful weekend and a half I had!!! I got to go down to slc. to see my mom and ash, casey... It was great!

I've missed my mom and sister sooo much, I love that I got to spend time with them. My mom is amazing, she let me go out with ash, a few times while she watched the kids... what a great Grandma! The kids had so much fun with her and Aunt Ash. Grandma always has games and puzzles for them to do, they love it!!

Makayla was good the first day or so, she actually went to Grandma and ashley, she usally doesn't go to anyone but me!! So of course I was gleefully full of Joy and I'm sure Ashley was too!

I spent my birthday down there, and WOW, it was just the cup o' juice I needed!!! My mom and the kids made me a cake, I went out to dinner... it was great!

I ended up staying down there longer than I expected..... of course its winter weather that stopped us from travling back home. But I know that I always have a room at my moms... Though I did feel quilty about staying there as long as I did, But in reality, its my mom, and I shouldn't feel that way. I love the way she is, she is always inviting anyone into her home. Oh what a great and wonderful Mom she is!!!! Though the time ended, and it was fun, but it also was nice to come back home.... Now I get to look forward to a weekend JUST with the Girls... 4 1/2 weeks and I get to go to Billings with my mom and sisters... WHAOOOOO!!!!....... and NO KIDS!!!

A beautiful 8 yr old Girl...

2009-03-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

Grandma Maddox made my baptism dress..

WOW, shelby is turning 8 this sunday! I can't believe how time flys. She is getting very tall and thin.... (uh oh) Shelby is so excited to get baptised this summer, we've decided to wait so family can be here to share in the joy!

It seem like yesterday when I brought her home from the hospital. She was so tiny and small, but also very content baby. She hardly every cried and was a good little baby; she still is! Her choices she's made are very comforting to me, she truely tries her hardest; at school, church, and play.

My little girl is growing up..... Shelby helps her brother and sister out all the time, she is surely becoming a little mommy herself. I love her so much- she is a special little spirit sent from Heaven-

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CONNER-MAN!!!

2009-02-11T13:36:00.000-08:00

Here are some birthday pictures of conner.

Conner had his 5th birthday last Saturday! WOW I can't believe he's that old already, he's growing up soo fast, I just love it though, he's so inoccent and all around good boy. He got so excited for just the little things he got. ( especially since we JUST had christmas) He had a great day!!!

Yeah me!!!

2009-02-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

I finally did it! I made it my goal to workout this last weekend!! Yippee! I feel lots better, and I think I can finally work it into my daily routine! So lets see how long I can keep this up. I would love to lose some of this "late" baby weight! We'll see.

On another note, I finally made it through this crazy month, I am so glad it went by, I had lots to do and so little time. I've only been a Young Women's counselor for a short while, but I hope that my girls know how much I love them, they each bring in a warmth about them and I love to get to know them. Though, I've noticed that I've got to be a bit tougher on them when it comes to important goals, I feel like I should be there "friend" , but I really need to be there Counselor, and a leader for them, It's hard sometimes to distinguish the too from each other, I don't want to be hated, but I want respect as well. Any way I'm just rambling on and on, I just needed a way to express my feelings today! Sorry everyone- I just needed to take a breather.

MY GOALS for '09.....

2009-01-23T12:22:00.000-08:00

Ok, I think I "NEED" to start making my resolutions NOW!!! Even though its already the end of January.. better late than never, right! So I've been wondering lately how "everyone" has time to workout? Ok , Ok Getting up a little earlier than I do, would probably help. But taking care of kids, cleaning house, laundry, my CALLING, my husband, and then school time and helping out with school stuff... Girl scouts, and making sure dinners on the table, making sure homework is done.... AHHH where does the time go!?

So I finally have been working out a bit more, even though I should be playing with Makayla and getting that laundry done thats been washed twice and dried twice... (becuase I usally forget to get the clothes out of the dryer and then they get wrinkley so the dryer goes back on for another 1o min. or so... I guess that taking time for yourself is very important! I have made it a priority to get at least 25-30 min. of some kind of exercise! It makes me feel good and I seem to be happier(especially when those nasty pounds come off) lol...

Make time for yourself even though those dishes are still in the dishwasher, and the laundry is still in the dryer, they'll be there later and someones gotta do it!! (me) So oh well if they sit there for 30 min., take a walk or jog, or workout at least you feel like you've accomplished something and you feel GREAT once you've done it!!!

I guess I should be taking all of this feedback for myself!! LOL. I love to write stuff and then I think, gosh, I should be doing that same thing. I am so glad that I CAN work out a bit out of my day, some times I take it for granted. Those "things" that NEED to get done, DON'T have to be done RIGHT AWAY!! They'll be there later, and in the morning too... they don't go and make themselves up on their own... to bad though,! LOL !
TOP 10 RESOULTIONS:
1. Work out
2. play with Makayla
3. Be grateful
4. Be thankful
5. Enjoy the Kids
6. have peace in our home
7. Don't YELL
8. Less T.V.
9. Scriptures
10 Praying morning and night and inbetween
11. Say NO to people when you know you can't do it ALL!!!( like that will happen)

blogger problem!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-12T13:20:00.000-08:00

Ok, I don't know about any of you bloggers, but I sure can't download any "cute" backgrounds anymore!!! AHH So if any of you knows What I'm doing wrong..... PLEASE let me know!!!

Thanks hope you have a great day!!!

Christmas Break

2008-12-28T19:55:00.000-08:00

WOW again! I can't believe that its the end of December now, where has the time gone! Christmas came and went and the kids had an amazing christmas! They sure got everthing they wanted! The look on their faces were timeless, ecpecially Makayla's she was soo excited, the first thing she said was "BABY"! SO cute, I guess ya had to be their to see her reaction!

My dad came up to spend the holiday's with us, it was great to see him! Lots of fun and staying up playing games!

So, I've been not feeling well latley, like about 3 months now, my stomach would seem to hurt all the time, I finally went to see a doc. And he thought it might be my Gallbladder, WOW never thought I'd have something weird like that...anyways he told me I should see a surgeon if I needed it removed, So I saw a surgeon (which whom is in our ward) and I told him all about what was going on, he seemed to think it was more than that, or totally something else, so he decided I get a Colonoscopy and an Upper GI done.... I was at that point scared and wondering what the HECK!!

I eventually "just" had this procedure done, I got the results back and he called to tell me I have a mild case of CALITIS Its where the Colon is irritated and can cause the symtoms I've been having. Theres no none cause of how and why someone gets it. Though some foods can irritate it even more, so I do have to watch a bit of what I eat.... He stills wants me to get some more blood work done, to rule out one more... Celiac Disease!!! this is where you can't have WHEAT so its GLUTEN FREE foods.

I guess it could be worse. I just thank my Heavenly Father for giving me the strenght and set of mind to over come this, and to deal with it! I need to have Faith in him, he only gives us trials big enough for us to deal with. I guess I'll deal with whatever needs be!

Though, its been a bit nice.... I've been able to lose those few pounds I've wanted! LOL!!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2008-11-29T22:33:00.000-08:00

This month has flown by so fast. I can't believe that Thanksgiving came and is now gone. We had the pleasure of having my Mom, Bart and Ashley come up for Thanksgiving, I was so so excited to have them come up here. I can't tell you how jazzed I was. One my mom was coming up to help me decorate my house. (If those of you know my mom she is a fantastic decorator!!!) And second just becuase we haven't seen then for a while, at least thats what it seems like when you go for soo long without seeing her.

If I could only tell you how BEAUTIFUL my house looks now. She does an awesome job; Shaye also. She knows where things should go and what should go where. They both have a great gift, and I should know, its like one of the magazines you'd pick up to get ideas from. Its so wonderful to have family around and know that they are here for you and love you.

My family is so awesome, I love them dearly and I know that this week was a bit stressful and with my complaining on not getting enough time with "just" them, I guess I wasn't being grateful for what I have. Especially being a "thankful" part of the week, I should've been blessed and happy and content just to be able to spend that quality time with them. I've been waiting and waiting for SO long for this week to come that I used it up by complaining and not having a thankful heart.
A good lesson here is, Be grateful for the things you have when its right in front of you when its there, and stop being so negative, cause it might not happen again- our moments here are timely and we need not to be so hard headed like I was. Be content in the moment and happy with what is in front of you and savor the moment that's here and now- I love you mom and I love my sisters dearly they are the best and I had a wonderful FUN time with them while they were here. I hate seeing them go home-

2008-11-06T12:44:00.000-08:00

Makayla as a Bumble bee!! So cute

Halloween

2008-11-06T12:32:00.000-08:00

Shelby wanted to be a "rocker" skeleton grrl!! looks so excited too!
Conner is our Ninja!!

My Sister

2008-10-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

Well I don't know where to start! My poor sister Shaye is going through a rough time in her life, dealing with Diabeties and now she found out she has this form of disease called "NLD" She has a sore on her leg that she's had for quiet some time, It has been bugging her and she went online and found out it was "NLD" ( Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum)!!! WOW what a big word.

The pictures of this are extremely the same as what she has on her leg. The sore can enlarge and grow bigger up the leg, it can get very sore and infected. Though, I don't know if it is lifethreating, there is no cure for it, and it is hardly known, only 0.03 % of Diabetic Women get it! So of course shaye was one of the 3 percent! Why? And it only happens to "Diabetic Women"!! I just found this out today, I gave her a big hug, and tried to comfort her through this time. I can't imagine what she is going through. I wish that I could carry some of her burdens and why it has happened to her! Oh I wish it would just go away, and she wouldn't have to worry about it!

I feel so so bad for her, I wish I could do something. Why? Why did it happen to her? Shaye I am so sorry I feel quilty because I think you have it all, then I see that you deal with Diabeties and now this NLD. Oh, how I wish I could help out some how!

Edible Playdough!!

2008-10-27T19:26:00.000-07:00

So, I found this recipe on line thought that it would be fun to make for Makayla and Conner, I was watching Jon and Kate plus 8, she had made this recipe for her kids to play with then they could eat it! I haven't yet tried it, I hope it turns out well!! It sure sounds yummy.. I mean for my kids of course:)

PEANUT BUTTER PLAY DOUGHIngredients:One 18-oz jar creamy peanut butter6 tablespoons honey3/4 cup non-fat dry milkDirections: Mix ingredients together, using varying amounts of dry milk for desired consistencies. Knead it with fingers, forming into desired shapes, adding other foods like M&M's or peanuts for eyes, mouths, etc. Great fun! (Thanks to Lisa M.H.))

A beautiful Fall day..

2008-10-25T11:11:00.000-07:00

So Quinn and I decided to take the kids on a picnic and up into the mountains,( well it wasn't that far), any way, we went to a place called moiser gulch! It was soo beautiful we found a trail and started to go walking it was so pretty to see all the fall colors and leaves changing. Makayla "had" to walk she is our independant little girl. She sure loves to walk outside and play in the dirt.

Just thoughts....

2008-10-17T19:59:00.000-07:00

As I read my Aunt's sweet testimony it made me think of how life is a "MOUNTAIN", it has its ups and its downs, and those up parts are usually the hardest to deal with, but I remember a saying " this to shall pass"! ( I think) ... sorry if that's wrong. I give my deepest sympathy to her, I hope she knows they are in our prayers!

I bore my testimony this past week, the feeling I got was sooo movable and warm, of course though, before I get up there I am already in tears. I guess that's the Holy Ghost telling me that I am doing the right thing. Life gets too busy and crazy, that I just need to take a moment and remember why I am here; to test my knowledge from right and wrong, to show my kids from right and wrong, tell them the stories of Jesus, and know that he loves them as much as I love them. My kids are the world to me.
I too have a wonderful mom, she has taught me many, many important things through my life, and I hope I will do the same for my children. I can't comprehend how much I love her, she always knew and knows the right answer for "everything" ! I know my Aunts, they also have a wonderful spirit about them too, I guess I awe at my Grammy, She brought up wonderful daughters, they are spiritual children of our Heavenly Father.

I hope one day my daughters and son, can tell their little ones the same thing about myself too. But those are big shoes to fill in, my mom did, knew, how what where and everything in between.. How I will never know, except to follow in her footsteps too....

except the sewing thing, I don't know why I was never taught to sew a button... I guess there's always time to learn, especially when your daughter is in Girl Scouts, and says to you " but mom you don't know how to sew"!! thanks shelby! I will try my best, and if I can't well then there's glue!!! LOL, just kidding. And Yes! I do finally know how to sew a button!!! Thanks QUINN!!!

Our home

2008-10-14T11:50:00.000-07:00

Here is just some pictures that I finally took, since we've been in the house... When my mom comes up it will look "AMAZING"!!! (so excited)!!!

My Cousin Shannon

2008-10-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

My wonderful cousin Shannon has passed away, she was a beautiful person inside and out. I will miss her very much but thankful that her struggle here on earth is over. She suffered tremendously and I awe at her for the strength she had to keep on going.

When I found that she passed away, I cried and cried, but my husband reasurred to me she is in a wonderful place and is happy and not struggling any more. I stepped back for a moment and thought WOW!! shannon is back home with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ!

I remember when we were younger, her family had visited with us and we thought it would be fun to dress up the same and bought braclets together.. I still to this day have the braclet in my drawer. I even have a picture of us that her mom took so we could remember those braclets. I remember doing a skit with her during our reunion and she new all the moves to dance to!

Oh what wonderful memories that I have of her and that I will always have of her. Shannon, your a special person who always new what you wanted in life, you were always the strong one and spiritual one I have great memories of us as kids, and will always keep them in my heart.

SCHOOL!!

2008-09-03T08:58:00.000-07:00

Conner started school today!! He was soooo excited! Though, of course I was sad, but the funny thing is Conner wasn't a bit shy to start school!

I showed him where to hang his coat and back-pack, then one of the teachers came and took him to wash his hands.... So I was about to leave, when I realized I forgot to give him a hug and kiss. Well to my suprise Conner came out of the bathroom and when I said conner I love you! He walked right on passed me and said "By MOM"! and there I was in shock, he didn't mind going in class with out giving mom a kiss and a hug! WOW, I guess he's all grown up and was ready to start school! My little Conner-man is getting sooo big!!!

Back 2 school!!!

2008-08-27T19:42:00.000-07:00

Shelby started school today... yippie! It sure was nice to have kids not fighting every 5 min. So she went to first grade, I can't believe it! She's getting so big.
Conner goes next wed! YIPPIE!!! WOW just makayla and me. At least for a few hours while conner is at school. He is soo excited to go, expecially to have his spider-man back-pack. Crazy kid. He is becoming more and more boy everday. I think sometimes he's made a corner, but then again he shows a boyish attitude. Makayla is starting to walk more and more, I guess she's getting more daring everyday. Though, today she stood up in the middle of the floor and started to walk towards me, then ... BOOM she landed on her little tush! She sure is full of energy and a bit of a spitfire!

The house is almost COMPLETE!!! So I think maybe in a week and a half I will be in, YAH! The kids are sick and tired of going over to the house and just cleaning and doing small odds and ends, they keep saying; "When can we be done" I tell them well start helping and the faster we can get this stuff done the faster we can move in... Of course they then start picking up, or wiping windows... what good little helpers we have!

Sweet kids!

2008-08-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

Last week we took the kids; and the cousins to get their pictures taken. Shaye did an awesome job taking their pictures!

GREAT NEWS!!!

2008-08-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a great ward we have! Today we found out that we were getting a new bishopric. Our former Bishop had been in for 6 yrs. So, we had a bunch of family come into visit.... which meant something was going on with my Brother -in-law! Yep, He was put in as the "BISHOP"!!! Can you believe it! WOW how wonderful Heavenly Father works to put in a great guy!! I sooo felt the spirit today. I was overwhelmed by the spirit, and how it can make you feel sooo good when good things like this happen.

I am soooo grateful for my Heavenly Father.

I know that with this new change comes a great and wonderful new beginnings. I am over-joyed by the spirit, I need that great feeling that comes over when it touches my heart. It just makes the whole thing seem even more real, and true, than ever before. I am grateful for my Heavenly Father and the son Jesus Christ. I know that the Savior died for me to make good choices for myself and my kids, and to teach them the good from the bad. I have a testimony of this TRUE church and I know I will live with him someday, I just need to keep on believing and praying to my Heavenly Father.

Tiehack

2008-08-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

So we went to the Lake, tihack. We had a picnic there and went on a little hike over the bridge, and saw the waterfall. Julia decided to go up on the ledge and take a peek at the water below. I followed her the second time, it was a bit tricky getting there but what a beautiful view we had!!!

Conner thought that getting his feet wet would be fun, then it was his ankles, then up to his knees, before long he was sitting in the lake. He had soo much fun playing and splashing in the water. Shelby then joined in on the fun! I wished I had my camera then, but I left it behind. So you can just imagine how wet they were in there clothes!!!

It was such a beautiful day to spend with family. We all had a blast!!

Maddox's came to visit

2008-08-09T14:39:00.000-07:00

WOW! What a fun week. The Maddox's came and stayed with us this past week. We had so much fun with Frank,Linda and Julia. The kids were sooo excited to see Julia, since it had been a while since they saw her.

More to come....

2008-07-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

I know I keep posting new pictures of our house, but its soo awesome to see changes. I haven't put anymore on; at least not yet! I want to get more done on the house before I post new ones. So I will have them up soooooon!!!

It's coming along...

2008-07-26T08:30:00.000-07:00

Well here is some inside pictures of our house! I guess its coming along, its so much fun to see changes every week it gets a bit more paint or adding tile, (no not there yet)... I've been so excited to see the new paint come along. These pictures are from a week ago, so its actually done, theres a few places we need to do some touch up paint. Quinn got sick of cutting in the tops that we decided to paint the ceiling and walls the same color in our room, conners and the bathrooms! It looks good. Shelby's room.... WOW it's got some "PINK" to it. Yep, thats the color she wanted in her room, Conner's room was the same as the whole house, just becuase his bedspread will match the walls, so we didn't do some wild color in there! ( just in case some of you were wondering why he didn't get to pick a color.)

Fun at the park!!

2008-07-19T17:11:00.001-07:00

The kids love going to the park, Makayla loved playing in the sand, and trying to do what her brother and sister were doing! Shelby insisted to go down the slide with makayla, which Makayla wasn't quite sure of it.. Conner is a goof when asked to smile for the camera.

Our House!!

2008-07-09T21:11:00.000-07:00

If you could only see the tall green grass and the trees, the creek is full and its been a beautiful summer. It's been a short summer, though, I guess that we still have another month to go, but I just can't believe how fast it as gone by.. We hang out at the pool almost every day. The kids are getting better at swimming. I guess more daring. Makayla loves the water, she could splash and play all day long if I let her.

Our house is coming along!!! YAH!! We just picked up our trim and then I get to "Paint" it all! "Yuck". Oh well I guess I'll do whatever to get in! Then, after that we will start painting, then tile, then uh, well whatever goes in next I'm happy with it! So its actually coming along. The outside is FINISHED!!! Now we just got to get in there and get'r done!!! Our poor little dog, passed away! He wasn't that old, he had an accident, which was very sad, Our shelby says he is with Heavenly Father, and we will see him again! Crazy; what kids will say!

The Maddox family

2008-07-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess I better start by saying; WOW! I finally figured out this Blog thing!! So, I'll start with My kids:

Shelby my oldest, is 7 and is growing like a weed!! She is soo "TALL" at least to me. Shelby will be headed for the 1st grade this fall. I can't believe it!! Shelby loves to read books, play dress-up,and being a little mommy to her younger brother and sister.

Conner-man 4 yrs old.is getting big, he will be starting this fall pre-school! YIPPIE!! What am I gonna do with all that free time... Oh wait a minute, I still have little Makayla at home. Conner is already for school he has picked out his very own spider-man book bag! He is such a good little helper for me, He also is a cute little gentlemen when it comes to opening the doors for me and his sisters.

Makayla is growing up too fast, she is 13months and I can't believe how time flys when their this young, she is full of life, she know what she wants, when she wants it, and she lets everyone know it too! She just started to crawl and is getting around very well, almost too well!

Quinn just started on the Sheriff's Dept. He is officially a Deputy, and loves it! He plumbs on the side when he isn't working.And when he isn't doing that he volunteers at the Johnson County Fire.And when he's not doing that he is usually working at the house.He's a busy man! It works out great for us, and I like the hours he works too.

I love being at home with my kids and I love hanging out at the pool this summer, its been SO nice to go when-ever we want and the kids have tons of fun. When I'm not busy with the kids, I like to read, scrapbooks, and well; I guess that's about it!

Well, that about sums up the whole family, we are grateful for everything we have, grateful for friends and family. Our prayers are with (my) cousin Shannon, and also a close friend Carol Hilton!