Ladies Smith

September 11, 2009

2009-09-12T10:22:00.001-07:00

There we were....out in the "Wild Blue Yonder." Mom and Dad.....me, and the girls!

Oh, Kathy made the journey and enjoyed the afternoon with us as well. It was great to have mom and dad here to share and make new memories with us. All is well...All is well!

Ahhh....Summertime! I LOVE MY GIRLS!

2009-08-02T20:09:00.000-07:00

Summer brings the best of everything for my girls and I. Since my job allows me "summers off," it's the perfect opportunity for the girls and I to make new memories...And, with each new memory comes new blessings!

Summer is Here!

2009-06-10T21:51:00.000-07:00

More memories are being made everyday! I will be sharing pictures soon. Here are a few from today. Happy Summer!

Winterfest 2009

2009-02-07T14:06:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, CCHS. Churchill County High School. Home of the Greenwave - the rolling waves of blowing alfalfa as you look across the valley. Key word: blowing. Yes, the wind does blow a lot in this valley. But.....I love it. For the most part, I love good ol' CCHS too. This week was Winterfest 2009. The student council sponsered dress up days. I only partcipated in one dress up day - twin day. I was twins with my fellow PE teacher, Chele Dalager. We went through some old uniforms and showed off our greenwave pride.

This year Winterfest has been especially fun because our boys and girls varsity basketball teams are doing very well. Garrett and Miles play on the boys varsity team. They are ranked second in our zone. Addison, Payton, and I go to as many home games as we can. Actually, the girls love it - they sit on the first row at halfcourt with all their horses, stuffed animals, coloring books, crayons, books, and any other toy that looks appealing as we are packing for the game. The referees always talk to them when they are inbounding a ball on our sideline. Yes, they are rather cute.

On Friday, the boys played their last home game of the regular season. The seniors were of course honored with their parents - Garrett being one of them. As a member of the paparazzi, I was right there catching the action.

Both Garrett and Miles are fine basketball players. I have really enjoyed watching them play this season. They have high expectations for themselves on the basketball court and it is evident watching them on the court. I get emotionally involved in their games and I am not even a true sibling. I feel like my mom sometimes; I am so nervous that I can't bear to sit there a minute longer - I would rather wait outside in the lobby. They haven't disappointed me...it has been a treat. (I took a bunch of pictures at the game. However, hardly any turned out. Thank goodness we still have games left. Hopefully, I can get some good ones to add to the blog.)

We won our final home game - both boys did a fantastic job. Here they are with their grandparents, Verl and Martha Hendrix (Elaine's Parents).

Of course, against their wishes, Elaine made them stand next to me for a quick picture. At first, they were mad - I was the only one with a cheesy grin.

Then, Elaine yelled and they smiled but look at me. Yeah.

One year of ups!

2009-01-31T23:27:00.000-08:00

It has been awhile since I wrote...so sorry. I get so busy with work and the girls -it doesn't seem like I have a second to slow down. So....referring to my title...it has been one year since Jason filed for divorce. It has been a very hard year but there have been some really good times, too. I have been blessed in so many different ways. I am grateful for this year - the ups and downs. But, especially, the ups...so here are a few ups that have made this year so wonderful.

Addison learned how to ride a bike.

Addison turned four-years-old!

Payton turned two-years-old!

Primary Activities!

Memorial Day in Oakley with Grammy, Papa, and Aunt Stephanie!

Swimming Lessons at the indoor pool.

Afternoon naps.

Spending 4th of July with the Adams Family. Mont, Elaine, Garrett, and Miles.

The outdoor swimming pool.

Spending time in Oakley with all our cousins!

Uncle Todd's F-16 and his fly over.

Bear Lake with Holly, Carson, Aunt Stephanie, and the Ritchie Family!

Addie started preschool.

The corn maze at the pumpkin patch.

Little witches and carving pumpkins.

Mud.

Christmas morning, Aunt Stephanie, Grammy and Papa, and snow!

Oh Hales!!

2009-01-21T10:45:00.001-08:00

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Yee-Haw!

2009-01-21T07:43:00.001-08:00

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Annie from Oakley!

2009-01-19T11:41:00.001-08:00

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Too Cute To Spook!

2008-10-30T07:02:00.000-07:00

Our ward had the Trunk or Treat on Tuesday this year instead of on Halloween. This worked out perfectly for me because I got to spend a "Halloween"evening with the girls here in Fallon. (They will spend the real Halloween with Jason.) I didn't pick out the costumes, Grandma Smith did a fine job. I wanted the girls to be football players - they wanted the princess costumes. Oh well, they sure did turn out absolutely beautiful. They are my little princesses....and sometimes witches!

Lattin Farms

2008-10-20T22:05:00.000-07:00

The girls and I took our annual trip to the pumpkin patch at Lattin Farms. It is interesting to watch the girls grow every year as I scrapbook the pumpkin patch. (They are such hams; always posing and smiling BIG for the camera.) The evening was just perfect. We loved the corn maze. I thought the girls would get bored - but they were "amazed" with this path in the corn field. However, we did cheat at the end - I was the one getting irritated. I finally led the girls out the side - knocking down several thousand corn stalks as we went. I didn't care. It was fun. Addison had been to the pumpkin patch already with her preschool class - so she was the tour guide. We didn't miss a thing; the cow train, hayride, goats, chickens, rabbits, and pumpkins - we were busy running from one end of the farm to the other. It was loads of fun! In the end, Payton picked out a perfect pumpkin to sit along side Addison's. We were dirty and happy as we pulled away - until next year!!

Addison's Preschool Adventure Begins!

2008-10-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

Wow! It has been awhile since I have been here! We have been so busy since school started in August. I have to admit, I have been a little overwhelmed too. This is hard work - to raise children and work. But I love it when they are with me and get very blue when they are with Jason. When Addison and Payton are home, we are running, running, running! The time flies by and before I know it we are headed back to Reno to drop the girls off to visit Jason. Time!! SLOW DOWN! Just to add more! I never thought I would see the day when Addison went to preschool. Here we are! Addison is going to preschool. She is attending a small, but VERY respected preschool here in Fallon. She goes on Monday and Wednesday from 1:00 - 3:00. I am lucky enough to dash over on my lunch break, pick her up, and drop her off. My dear, sweet, wonderful, outstanding, friend, Katherine Jensen (watches the girls while I am at work) picks her up after school. Addison LOVES preschool! Her teacher's name is Mrs. Stark. Addison is blooming. She is learning her letters, writing, and starting math. The artwork she brings home is out of this world! It is so fun to watch her learn, socialize, and make new friends. How blessed she is to have a teacher like Mrs. Stark. (I know Mrs. Stark, I coached her girls and was able to coach with her husband. They are a GREAT family!) She absolutely loves her students and it shows. Addison adores Mrs. Stark and can't wait to see her when we get to school. It will be a lot of fun to watch Addison grow throughout this year!

Off We Go To Bear Lake!

2008-08-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

Addison, Payton, and I had the opportunity of spending a few days at Bear Lake. Oh, can I just say.....Wonderful? Wonderful! It was wonderful. Holly Rands, a very good friend of Aunt Stephanie and mine, invited us to spend a few days at her family beach house. The Ritchie family, Aunt Stephanie, Holly, Carson (a very patient, loving, kind dog), Addison, Payton, and I shared an awesome four days of pure relaxation. Wonderful!

The girls and I left on Monday and stayed in Sandy at the Utley's house. On Tuesday, after many long years, I was able to meet up with my good friend, Tricia. The girls fell in love with Maggie and Tucker (Tricia's poodles; I lived with them when I first started teaching in Fallon.) We went to Tricia's house in Highland. It was so good to see Tricia. After all these years, it seemed we just picked up where we left off. I really enjoyed seeing her and being able to talk and share our lives with each other again. Addison and Payton loved her house. She has lots of "Auntie" toys and candy. Thanks to Maggie and Tucker, we now play dogs on a regular basis and they fight over who gets to be Maggie and Tucker. Ha! It's "ruff!" ~We drove to meet Tricia's sister, Tarrin, and her three kids at a playground called Kangaroo Zoo. Kangaroo Zoo is an industrial sized building with big blow-up slides inside. The girls had a ball. Tricia and I even broke the rules and went down a few slides with the kids. It was a lot of fun.

Wednesday morning the girls and I left for Bear Lake. We had no idea what we were about to experience. The beach house sits right on the lake, overlooking the beach. It was so fun to arrive and have the girls so excited to get to the water. They couldn't wait for me to unload and get our room organized. ~So, Who else would rescue these poor little girls? Da-da-da-duh....."HAVE NO FEAR....Aunt Stephanie's here!" That's right... Aunt Stephanie loaded them up on the 4-wheeler (w/grins attached) and took them down to the water's edge. ~With the understanding that they were just to "look!" -Wading in the water?....ummmm....yeah, right! This is Addison and Payton here...two little girls that live in water and have special gills built into the back of their neck. After a while, the sound of the four wheeler rolled back with two little girls that were soaking wet from their head down to their toes. Aunt Stephanie just couldn't stop them. She was absolutely helpless! Those girls needed to touch that water!!! ~~That's what started the fun! ~Later, the Ritchie family, Dan, Nona, Jennie, Alli, and a family friend, Shelby, arrived. Everyday after that was spent at the beach. We loaded up jet skis, canopies, food, drinks, books, beach toys, tubes, knee boards, chairs, towels, golf clubs, sunscreen, dog toys, ipods, tanning lotion, and headed down to the water's edge. There we stayed. The girls had a BLAST! I just can't get over how much they enjoyed themselves; playing in the sand, on the tubes, jet skies, swimming, and running with Carson. The water was absolutely perfect. They had a smile on their faces the entire time.

All the fun is included, but is not limited to, the smallest parade in the world with the most candy ever; trying to get up on the knee board...just one more time, sinking on the tube, the jet ski tipping over, building sand castles with the army men, looking for shells and finding junk, throwing the ball for Carson, Carson panicking that his mother was gone, trying to distract Carson, golf tournament-sand bunker to the Frisbee, the wind that destroyed the new canopy, thunder and lightening, Baywatch Babe to the rescue, watching that light for what seemed like hours, rain, rain, rain, gathering in the purple room to watch the Olympics, early morning walks, early morning gas runs, combing hair with the sand rake, flowers from the victim to Pamela Anderson, falling asleep on the jet ski, looking for "my doggie", relaxing, and sun, sun, sun!

Aunt Stephanie, you are the best AUNT ever! Thanks for all the fun. Thanks to the Ritchie Family for playing with Addison and Payton - they talked about you for days. Thanks also to Dan and Nona for the jet ski, shopping for food, and Dan...thanks for waiting on us "hand and foot!" (Need I remind you? You were a lucky man to be among such great women!) We can't thank Holly enough for this BIG little heavenly vacation. We love you, Holly! THANKS!

I LOVE JET NOISE!

2008-08-20T19:46:00.000-07:00

Today, while attending a school district meeting, the speaker asked us to write down a unknown fact on a piece of paper and share it with the class. I wrote down, "I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, JET NOISE." I realized how lucky I am to have jet noise in my life. I heard a lot of jet noise this summer.

I live directly across the street from the Top Gun Naval Base in Fallon, NV. I hear jet noise six days a week. LOUD jet noise. It is a stop-talking-on-the-phone-because-I-can't-hear- you jet noise.

I am blessed to have a brother, Todd, who flies F-16's for the Air Force. This summer while I visiting my parents, it worked out that Todd was able to fly over Oakley. He told us ahead of time to wait at the end of the airport runway. He did a mock touchdown; which meant that he flew directly over the top of our heads. It was absolutely breathtaking! I will admit, that I began to cry like a baby. It is one thing to hear the jet noise everyday in Fallon, it is another to hear it, see it, feel it, and know the pilot is your older brother!

Also, while in Oakley, the Twin Falls Airport had an Air Show. The Navy Blue Angels were the main attraction. We loaded up our chairs, treats, sunscreen, and children and headed over to the tarmac. Todd just happened to be down with his squadron so he was able to save us a shady spot under the wing of an F-16. It was a great show. The jet noise was awesome.

Once again, before I left Oakley, Todd was able to fly his F-16 over the little town of Oakley. Yes, once again, there I was at the end of the runway, crying like a little baby. It will always be an unforgettable experience in my life!

Back to Oakley!

2008-08-13T22:15:00.000-07:00

We left for Oakley on July 8. We were very excited about arriving. Catherine and Lauren arrived earlier in the week. We were so excited to see how much Lauren had grown. Russon, Melanie, Mitchell, Jared, and Dallin were going to be there. We haven't seen the family for a year. We were excited to reunite. Jeff, Renee', Larissa, and Olivia arrived later in the week. We love to play horses and dogs with LaLa and Livy. Stephanie came that week as well. Stephanie is plain fun! We could hardly wait to dig into her. We were very much missing Todd, Mary, Isaac, Tessa, AND Jason Brown; wishing we could spend time with them, too.

There was so much activity. Addison and Payton were in heaven. So many cousins to play with...so much to do at Grammy and Papa's. Everyday we could expect our "cold one" and Oreo cookies with Papa out in the backyard in the shade, jumping on the trampoline, playing in the wading pool, swatting flies with the DIRTY flyswatters, taking four-wheeler rides, playing Skip-bo games, watering flowers, playing on the hammock, and enjoying lots of laughter and lots of fun. We also had the opportunity to go to the open house for the Twin Falls Temple. It was beautiful! I was so happy to share it with Addison and Payton. I don't think they enjoyed it as much as I. We also went to the City of Rocks, found our rock house, climbed the rocks, had a rock throwing contest with Uncle Jeff....(Jared beat everyone!) And, of course...had a little treat. Addison, Payton, and I went to the Oakley Swimming Pool almost everyday. The girls loved the water and all the friends they played with. We would go for a little ice cream cone after the swim at the Hornet's Nest. Then, we'd toodle home on the four-wheeler.

We were also in Oakley over the 24th of July. Addison, Larrissa, and Olivia braved all the elements, put on their game faces, their jeans, their riding number, and climbed the chutes to meet....their lamb/steer. They participated in the "Kids Rodeo - Muttin Bustin." It was classic!

I didn't think Addie would do it!

She cried.....She got on..... She fell off...She cried...She lived to tell. She was awesome! So was Olivia and LaLa. They were the cutest cowgirls around! Yeah! What an experience for them to remember! Jeff, Renee', and I won't forget "on deck," either! A BIG thanks to Nick Robinson for helping Addison down onto the BIG sheep. Addison was scared to death and Nick was so kind and helpful. (Can't believe I used to babysit him!!) It was a very long night but very exciting to watch Addison try something crazy and fun!

Thanks again to Grammy and Papa for letting us stay for so long and literally....vacation! We love you!

The Grand Month of July!

2008-08-01T17:25:00.000-07:00

Wow!! July flew by in a flurry of vacations! I have a lot to catch up on. The girls and I had such a wonderful month of July! The celebrations started over the 4th of July. I was able to spend the 4th with my good friends, Mont and Elaine Adams, Garrett (son) and friend, Alex, Miles (son) and friend Hadley, and Verl and Martha Hendrix. We stayed at the Hendrix Cabin in Twin Lakes, California. It was absolutely beautiful! (Addison and Payton spent the holiday with Jason. They were desperately missed by their mother!)

Twin Lakes, California

Elaine, Miles, Hadley, and I went up on Thursday to get the cabin ready for the rest of the crew. Miles and Hadley fished - that is what the Hendrix family does - fish! Elaine and I.....sat. I sat at the table scrapbooking and Elaine sat on the couch reading. Friday, the rest of the crew arrived. The cabin was busting at the seams - but I was so thankful for the diversion; I was missing the girls so badly.

Friday morning I participated in the Twin Lakes Fun Run. However, I didn't run, I walked. It was a 5K walk. I really enjoyed myself. There was over a 100 runners/walkers. The morning was breathtaking. The mountain air was crisp and the scenery was picturesque. I wished I had someone to share it with so I made friends with another walker. We visited most of the way until he left to use the restroom. Rats. I finished the race with my ipod. Later that day, Mont, Elaine, Verl and I went on the fishing boat around the lake. Mont told Elaine and I we were just in the way. Which was very true - we were there purely for the sunbathing. But it was fun to antagonize Mont and relax in the sun.

Verl Hendrix - fishing

Mont Adams - notice the shirt.....BOISE STATE!! (He says he is not a fan...uh-huh)

Elaine Adams - bathing beauty!

Me - laughing, I am sure over something Mont said.

Elaine and I also went kayaking. We didn't go too far - but it was a blast! The rest of the gang fished, kayaked, and biked too.

Saturday started early with a short hike with Garrett, Alex, Miles, Hadley, and another good friend, Kevin. Well, it was supposed to be a short hike but seven hours later we finally made it back to the car. I just wanted to see what was around the next bend and I convinced these young adults to follow along. They complained an awful lot, but I secretly think they really enjoyed themselves. We hiked up into some of the most beautiful areas I have ever seen. We slid down snow banks, swam in high mountain lakes, and rock jumped. It was a pleasure to spend my Saturday with these young adults. I can not say enough good things about them. They were good sports and teased me relentlessly about dragging them up the mountain. And MILES!! He hiked with a cast on his foot - he didn't know what he was getting himself into when we started that morning! We came home tired, thirsty and hungry! It was awesome!!!

The crew - Hadley, Alex, Garrett, Miles, and Kevin

Garrett - I told him NOT to do this...but if you are not going to listen to me - wait a second and let me get the camera ready....he waited.

It was sad to leave on Sunday. But, I was so excited to see Addison and Payton. I love the Adams/Hendrix Family. They have been a solid support for me during this divorce. I am so grateful for them and for their "adopting" the three of us. AND I am grateful for the invite to the cabin! I can't wait to return!

Splish Splash!!

2008-06-29T14:40:00.000-07:00

The girls have been taking private swimming lessons at the indoor pool. Their teacher is amazingly patient. I have seen great swimming improvements in both Addison and Payton. It has been such a treat to watch them every week get braver and better. Addison can now float on her back, retrieve rings from the bottom of the pool, jump off the edge of the pool, and do a pretty good front crawl swimming stroke. Although, she doesn't really go anywhere while attempting the front crawl. Payton just loves the water. She will put her entire head under water, jump off the edge of the pool, and retrieve the rings in the shallow end of the pool. They are adorable.

Since starting swimming lessons, we try to go the outdoor pool once a week too. They love the outdoor pool because of the slide. Down they go - over and over and over again. They love to swim under the rope and jump off the edge. We also went to Lake Lahonton last weekend with the Schenk Family. The lake doesn't have very much water so instead of sand they played in mud - but they still had a great time. Also, yesterday, we went to the Wild Island Waterpark in Reno. It was very expensive but VERY worth it. The girls had so much fun. The kiddie pool had five slides and many other play areas. They were in heaven. There was also a wave pool - which they enjoyed as well. I received so many comments from other mothers about their ability to go down the slides by themselves - especially Payton. She would slide down head first and wouldn't let me touch her! I was pretty proud of them both. They are my fish! We are looking forward to the Oakley Pool when we visit Grammy and Papa in July!!

These Pictures were taken at Lake Lahonton.

Playing around at the playground!

2008-06-11T17:37:00.001-07:00

The girls were home this last weekend. We had plans to go spend the day at the lake. However, the weather was rather chilly. So we stayed in until we could take it no longer. We decided to visit the new city park.

This is a typical Smith girl habit - run barefoot in the park!

This darling dear stopped for a second to pose for the picture before she slid down the biggest slide in the park. We tried to coax the other darling dear, but she was more interested in flying the jet. She was trying to catch Uncle Todd in his jet. "Wait up, Uncle Todd. Peas!"

What could they be looking at? Why it is Uncle Todd in his jet!

The day was great. We had a good time.

Oakley!

2008-05-28T21:52:00.001-07:00

We took our first "girls only" road trip last weekend to visit Grammy and Papa in Oakley, Idaho. Onward, ever Onward! We were happy girls and were looking forward to our visit with Grammy and Papa. But first.....we had to get there!!

The Drive:
We left Thursday afternoon from Reno. Much to our dismay, there was an accident on the freeway outside of Reno. We made it to Fernley 2 1/2 hours later - usually this drive takes 30 minutes. Thank goodness I packed the girls their own backpack full of books, color books, crayons, doll, doll accessories, sunglasses, Magna Doodle, and anything else I thought would hold their attention for a few minutes. I packed the DVD player with a wide selection of movies. I packed food - mostly good for my sake, but a few sweet treats as well. The drive was rather fun. The girls were very well behaved. The car, on the other hand, at least the back seat, was a war zone. But!!! We were happy girls and were looking forward to our visit with Grammy and Papa!

The Visit:
Breakfast, baths, trampoline, cold one, bike rides, four-wheeler rides, trips to the store for candy, trampoline, bike rides, four-wheeler rides, park adventure, sidewalk chalk, lunch, bike rides, puddle jumping, rain, Barbie Dolls, trampoline, throwing rocks at the Oakley Dam, fly-swatting in the pool, rain, dinner, bedtime, out of bed, bedtime, out of bed, bedtime, out of bed, bedtime!! This was the schedule for the weekend. It was fun!

There were several highlights:
Grammy & Papa - They are wonderful. Papa took the girls on a four-wheeler ride, we drove to the ranch and the dam with him. Grammy attended to the our every need, wonderful meals, walks, bike rides, park trips, reading books. We love Grammy and Papa!
Aunt Stephanie- She was a trooper! Taking the girls on bike rides, four-wheeler rides, feeding them Pop Rocks Candy, taking them on walks during Sacrament Meeting - she did it all. The girls loved it and so did I!
Golf - Stephanie and I played a little golf in the backyard. I needed the practice and Stephanie needed the good laugh!

Thanks Grammy and Papa for the wonderful weekend. We can't wait to visit again! We love you!

Homeward Bound....Boundward Home?

2008-05-22T19:28:00.000-07:00

Yep....the Annie from Oakley, that we all know and love so dearly, is on her well-deserved-over-due-way, with her two young, adorable pups, to visit what still IS "Home Sweet Home." And, yes, for the next few days, she'll be enjoying 3 fun-filled days with lihP and amroN. LihP and amroN are waiting anxiously for their arrival! I would have loved to accompany them on their trip, but, I WASN'T INVITED!

Kidding, Oakley! Just had to go there!

Addison and Payton are real troopers....just like their mother! Considering the circumstances, as tough as they are......life is really going well for them. They are so blessed. I mean.....Tea Parties almost twice a week!? What kid wouldn't LOVE that? Gosh, I've even been caught sippin' the "party" drink with the adorable Smith girls! The hardest part for me is getting up from off of the floor. Floors are much lower in Fallon. My saddle doesn't quite fit on the party chairs!

Annie is and has been amazingly strong throughout this life changing event. Addison and Payton's well-being are top priority! She sacrifices so much to be sure they have stability through all of the instability. She is such a wonderful mother and is a grand example to us all. I've NEVER seen her mad. - (Oh!...Ask her about California road cones and pilot cars!)

Hopefully I'll be able to figure out how to attach some GREAT PICTURES from my last visit to Falla-bama without a banjo on my knee. The girls and I always make and take lunch to Annie from Oakley at school when I'm there. Anne loves it! She never wants us to leave. -Last visit was SPAM on Japanese RICE w/soy sauce. Yes, we deliver to Elaine, too!

Anne's obviously been TOO BUSY cleaning tea-party dishes, feeding the fish that hatched from the "fish-eggs" the girls found in the driveway....in FALLON, picking up Skittle wrappers, vacuuming party crumbs, and, the list goes on, to add the pictures to this wonderful bLOG of hers! --So....I'll just do it myself! I've been itchin' to do this for quite a while! ---- Hi Steph-FUNNY!!

So, as I was saying, these next few days will be fab-dab-u-lous! (Did I say that?)
There's no place like home....There's no place like home...There's no place like home!!!!
~Merry Christmas~

Payton is 2!

2008-05-12T22:58:00.000-07:00

My blue-eyed baby, Payton, turned another year older today! How time flies! Seems like yesterday that I was checking into the hospital in Reno, anticipating her arrival. Payton had an early birthday party in Susanville with Addison. She got to blow out candles, play with her friends, open presents, and wear the "birthday crown" a little early this year! So, today was a pretty low-key day. I had to work, unfortunately. But after school, I made one of her favorite foods for dinner - corn-on-the-cob! Yummy! Addison and I made her birthday cake. After dinner we drove over to Mont and Elaine's house (Several short stops at the horses, stinky cows, and the stinky goats) for cake and ice cream. She sure was cute! I am so blessed to have Miss Payton (Addison and I call her Payt.) as my daughter. I treasure her - she gives the best kisses and loves to snuggle. She is a daredevil and not afraid to do anything. We love you, Payton Jeanne! Happy Birthday!

My Mother

2008-05-11T21:26:00.002-07:00

"I know a name, a glorious name, dearer than any other. Listen, I'll whisper the name to you: It is the name of mother. Mother, so tender and kind and true, I love you, I love you."
--Frances K. Taylor

On this Mother's Day, I want my mother, Norma, to know how much I love her. My mother is a sweet woman. She has so many wonderful qualities. She IS inspiration, faith, good works, devotion, loyalty, encouragement, love, humor, and honor (the list could go on and on and on). My mother has been a beacon of light throughout my life. My mother's faith is sweet and simple - but it has made a profound difference in my life. I am constantly amazed at her strength when life gets bitter and difficult, she complains little and does so very much. She walks in the light of the Lord. It guides her in all of her actions. I am a stronger, more valiant woman because of her example. I am so proud to be her daughter. I love you!

Addison's 4th Birthday

2008-05-07T22:59:00.001-07:00

Addison had a wonderful day turning four! I took the day off. Kathy Moore and I planned a little birthday party with some of Addison's friends from Susanville. But first....we had to go to the beauty shop for a little dolling up. Addison had her hair done and her nails. She looked like a princess for sure! The party was a great success. There were lots of kids there, I won't name names I would never get them all right. But thanks to all who came - I know the girls loved it! A big thanks to Kathy Moore, the entertainment director. She throws a wicked party. A wicked party. (She is for hire too!!)

Miles of Contentment.

2008-05-02T22:30:00.000-07:00

The last two days have been really good days. I feel like I am starting to claw my way out of the pit that I put myself in. I miss my girls badly; this was their weekend with their dad. Despite that, I have had a good two days.

I feel as if my depression is gone, but there is still some sadness. I am hoping that this is the beginning of my journey to become reacquainted with who I really am and who I was before life was interrupted by divorce. I cannot change the past, but I am trying to change how I look at the past and how I feel about the past. I found a saying that I really like:

You can clutch the past so tightly to your chest that it leaves your arms too full to embrace the present. --Jan Glidewell

It has only been a little over a month since I moved to my own home. It has been a little over 3 months since Jason filed for divorce. I am beginning to feel content with his decision and often I find myself counting my many blessings that he did file. I know this sounds very heartless but there are many wonderful blessings that have come about because of his decision. I believe that there will be many more blessings in the future as well. With prayer, scripture study, and optimism, I will make it to the top of the pit. I will rise above this crisis a stronger person.

One person who is so funny, is one of the cutest young men that I know, and plays one heck of a golf game, is Miles Adams. He is the son of Mont and Elaine Adams. This family has done SOOOO much for me. I couldn't even begin to express my gratitude for them. But tonight as we were watching the Jazz game, I recognized how much Miles made me laugh. He is a crack up. Miles raps - he will take my comments about something and turn it into a rap. He is sarcastic. He cracks jokes in all the right places. Miles has many one-liners. And the girls?! They absolutely adore Miles. Miles is so patient with them. He plays and wrestles with them. He takes them on walks out to the chicken coops and pheasant pens. He lets the girls body slam him and punch him. They LOVE Miles. We are so thankful for Miles and his sense of humor.

Saturday Ladies Group!

2008-04-30T21:47:00.000-07:00

Addison Smith, Jane Wadsworth, Payton Smith, Natalee Wadsworth, Lindy Wadsworth, Abby Jensen

Not pictured: Maryanne Wadsworth (waitress), Anne Smith (waitress)

The "Saturday Ladies Group" met again this week for tea at Mama Smith's Cafe. Six totally adorable, little ladies showed up for the delectable spread. While feasting on the totally exquisite snacks, the ladies discussed a wide variety of subjects, including the weather, fashion styles, and the latest Primary music. Only a few accidents were noted during their social gathering. The ladies kept the two waitresses rather busy filling Cheetos bowls, fish eggs bowls, and tea cups. However, a good time was had by all!

Tip-Toe Through the Rocks!

2008-04-27T22:17:00.000-07:00

The girls and I went for a hike to Grimes Point/Hidden Cave Archaeological Site. It was a beautiful evening, NO WIND, we decided to take advantage of it and get out of dodge! It was a backyard adventure! We climbed, jumped, picked flowers, hiked off the trail, pretended we were leading the music at Primary,and pretty much broke every rule that is set up for a Nevada Recreational Park. But we had fun! We are looking forward to returning and making it to the top of the mountain. We only did a small little hike. We did see rabbits, lizards, and birds. I was busy looking and listening for any snakes. Unfortunately, I made the mistake of saying, "Look for snakes." Addison was a bit nervous the rest of the time. I hope I don't pass the "worry disease" on to her. I had to assure her that yes, there could be snakes, but we would see them before anything happened. Payton, on the other hand, was everywhere. She wanted to climb every rock - by herself. Every sign was the music stand - I only know this because as I was walking past her, I heard her singing a Primary song. I turned around to see if I was really hearing what I thought I was, and she was waving one of her hands in the air. So cute! I tried to capture but the little bugger wouldn't do it again. We went to Harmon Junction on the way home and got some ice cream cones. It was a great way to end the day. These are the moments that get me through the days when Addison and Payton are not with me. These moments are the tender mercies that my Heavenly Father so graciously blesses me with. Little moments that assure me that everything will be all right; that my Heavenly Father knows me, my worries, concerns, and fears. I am so thankful for evenings like this. Evenings that take the three of us on an adventure together.

A Tea Party!

2008-04-20T14:00:00.000-07:00

Addison and Payton have some very darling little girls that live behind us. Their names are Maryanne and Lindy.

We have them over quite often. They like to dress-up, play dolls, color, giggle, and run around the house. It makes me so happy (even teary eyed) to hear them play and laugh. So on this particular day I decided to make it extra special. I decided to give them a small tea party. I put some careful thought into the menu. I had to make sure that all who attended would be pleased with the refreshments! After careful consideration, I served to them: Cheetos, fish eggs (Skittles), and punch. I was the waitress. They were a very demanding table of little ladies. I was busy putting the napkin on each of their laps, refilling the empty tea cups, replacing empty Cheetos and fish egg bowls. All the while they sat at the table gossiping, talking, and laughing! We only had one minor spill. Much to my dismay, however, they didn't leave a tip. But they walked away from the table orange and replenished. Payton trying to decide if she should steal some of Addison's Cheetos. Addison telling quite the story.

Back Again!

2008-04-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

It has been a terribly busy month! It has been an emotional rollercoaster - up and down. One second, all is well and the next, I am convinced there is no hope. But I just press on and pray and pray and pray and pray.... I moved back to Fallon, Nevada on March 21, 2008. It was one of the hardest days of my life. If I thought it would be easy, I was dead wrong. It was awful. I didn't think I would feel that way; I was so ready to move on and close that chapter of my life. But I got through it with lots of tears and lots of hugs! I am so thankful for all the wonderful people who came so early that Friday morning and helped load the trucks and trailers. I was so grateful that I didn't really have to think...I was just going through the motions - there physically but not mentally. My family and friends just kind of took over. I am so appreciative of them.

I was able to get settled into my new home rather quickly with lots of help! At first I was unsure if I had made the right decision to move back to Fallon. I wasn't really sure of anything. But after a few touches to my home, setting out pictures and few familiar things, I felt better. Now, I love my home, it has really grown on me. It feels so peaceful and calm; not even close to the feeling that was in the house on Boda Lane. I know without a doubt that this is where I am supposed to be and it just feels so GOOD to be sure of something finally!
It is hardest on me to be away from Addison and Payton. I struggle with this everyday. I think it would be safe to say, I think of them every other minute. They are in my mind all the time. I can't stand to be away from them. It seems unnatural to take children away from their mother - even for 50% of the time. I don't know if I will ever get used to this. I don't know if I can forgive for this part of the divorce. Instead of coping and dealing with this, I feel as if I am getting more bitter about it as time goes by. I want my girls here with me, their mother. I can't get over the fact that they are not. I cherish the moments I am with them. I want to kiss their cheeks and love them nonstop. (I think they get sick of me mauling them.) They are my treasures. Ohhh, I love them.

The new job is going good. I don't have a classroom yet so I work out of a P.E. office. I am busy buying equipment for the class and searching the Internet for curriculum ideas. I have been traveling to Reno for meetings with other Health Occupation teachers. I am going to Elko in a few weeks to observe their classroom and get ideas from them. I am also traveling to Las Vegas at the end of this month to a convention. This is a nice diversion for me. I think it will help me move on; I HAVE to get up everyday, get dressed, do my hair, and my makeup. Some mornings, I just don't want to. But I like the job so far and I like the people I work with. This is always a bonus. A lot of the teachers I knew from before so it is easy to fit right back in.

I get to pick up the girls tomorrow evening! YEAH! I can hardly wait. All is well. All is well

Step Back in Time

2008-03-06T16:38:00.000-08:00

Kathy Moore, Addison, Payton, and I took a walk out to Dakin Wildlife Refuge the other day. It was a beautiful day. The ducks, geese, swans, and birds were plentiful. While we were walking Addison saw some feathers. We picked them up and I explained to her how they used to write with feathers before we had pens and pencils. Instantly, Addison decided that she had to try it with her finger paint. So when we returned home she insisted that she write using her "quill" - it was a crack up. Out came the paint and the girls sat at the counter writing for quite a while. Addison decided that she would rather use a paintbrush. But she had fun trying the feather!

A Good Visit!

2008-02-27T21:05:00.000-08:00

Two blogs in one day....I had to catch up! We absolutely loved having Grammy and Papa down for a visit. We tried to keep busy with the girls. Grammy was able to watch Addison ride her bike. So here are some pics from our walks and dinner at the Moore home. We love you, Grammy and Papa!

Biker Chick

2008-02-27T20:37:00.000-08:00

Addison got a new bike for Christmas. The weather has been just nice enough to practice riding. We drive to Kathy Moore's house and put Payton in a stroller and then let Addison go wild. She has done well. She can pedal pretty fast and she is really good at using her brakes. She has only crashed twice - the second crash was a good one. But she was tough and after a few tears she was back up in the saddle riding down the road! I call her my little Lance or the Biker Chick! If the weather is good enough after our ride we usually try and play on the Monster Castle. The girls are becoming very fond of the tire swing. It is such a joy to watch them grow and play....they love to play!

STEPH-funny!

2008-02-19T20:02:00.000-08:00

Aunt Stephanie was able to visit us last week. She came down for some much needed moral support and of course to see the girls. She was in for a sickening surprise. For most of the week, Addison, Payton, and I were sick. Let me say that again....we were sick. Like on the couch, can't move, fever, cough, flu, the whole shebang sick. Poor Aunt Stephanie! She turned out to be a nurse/maid! But, we loved having her with us. She did a lot for this little family! We miss her and can't wait for her to visit us again. Hopefully, next time we will not be sick AND the stresses of our life will be under control! Pray! Pray! Pray! Thanks, AUNT STEPHANIE!

Moore Fun!

2008-02-07T22:33:00.001-08:00

My friend, Kathy Moore, has been such a sweetheart during these past few months. We TRY (Usually, I flake!) to walk every morning, she calls me throughout the day to check up on me, stops by, feeds us, watches the girls when I need to do "adult" stuff, AND introduces me to exotic foods.......SUSHI! I absolutely adore her and am so grateful for all that she does for my little family! These pictures were taken at her house. Addison and Payton love to play on her computer, clean her house (For money; I've taught them well.....ha-ha), and feed her cat, Novocain. Kathy also loves to correct our grammer whenever we err. A habit I am sure that mom would approve of!

Fruit Loops!

2008-02-03T21:48:00.001-08:00

Church was cancelled today because of weather and power outage. I was looking forward to an afternoon of leisure and relaxation. It started out very well. We worked on several puzzles and played dolls. I worked my way over to the couch in the afternoon for a quick nap. That is when I heard the sound of breakfast cereal...specifically, fruit loops. The three of them, (I am including Miles, because he looked as guilty as they did, when I rounded the corner to the kitchen.) thought they were pretty cool - all I could do is laugh and get the shop vac.

The End

2008-02-02T20:53:00.000-08:00

I write this post with much sadness. After 2 years of dating and 4 years 9 months of marriage, my husband filed for divorce. It was the worst day of my life. My emotions have been up and down, as any wife in love with her husband would feel. My heart aches but mostly for Addison and Payton - they are the ones that will suffer the most. It still feels so surreal; like I will wake up from a bad dream and find him sleeping next to me. But I will survive and be better for it. My two treasures will also survive and will know what it is like to be strong by watching my example. My plans are to move back to Fallon and get a teaching job. I have a great support system there; people who understand that this is an emotional time and that is okay and normal to be emotional. Lots of things in my life will change but change is a good thing. I am excited for the challenge and the good the things that will come out of it. I know that my Heavenly Father hears my prayers and is aware of my heartache. He comforts me and strengthens me. He gives me friends and family who lift me up and help me. I am so grateful for his blessings and I know if I do what is right and keep the faith all will work out.

"Put your trust in God. 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 we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers." President Hinckley

This is the end.

Sledding!

2008-01-16T20:13:00.000-08:00

We all took a drive out to the ranch the other morning. I bought a sled and the girls were anxious to test drive it(We brought it in the house after we bought it and for a day they would sit in it and just stare at me.... they were ready to go!) We tied it up to the back of the truck and then pulled the girls around the fields. They loved it. It was so fun to hear them giggle. I was able to ride in the sled with them. Payton tuckered out so Addie and I lived it up. It was a lot of fun. I haven't been sledding in a long time. Took me back to Max Lloyd pulling us on the old automobile hood in the back field. It was fun!

Growing Geese on a Quilt With Three Little Girls in Bad Weather

2008-01-10T20:13:00.000-08:00

We have had a slow week around here. The weather has been crappy which means the roads are bad. I am anxious to get out. Today, I woke up to a world of more snow and fog. I took to the road early on to find some photo opportunities. Thus, the wheel line.

We also had a run in with snow geese. They migrated to our back field. It was an incredible sight - must have been 5000 or so. I let Jason snap some pictures - but they do not capture the sight or the sound of these geese. They seemed to fly in swarms. Addison and I ran outside after Jason went to work and scared them, just to watch them all fly. Then we ran for cover. It was pretty neat. Our pest control man came to the door and said, "Looks like you are growing geese." So it did - they formed in perfect lines.

I also had the great opportunity to use my new sewing machine to finish my first quilt. I started a quilt with Mary over Thanksgiving and finally finished it. I made it for Payton. I love it - might want to keep it myself! I am anxious to start Addison's; which will be done in purples instead of pinks!

Addison was able to have a friend, Grace, over on Monday. They played dress-up and totally destroyed Addison's bedroom. I don't know how two little girls could have ever made that big of a mess. I just shooke my head and laughed. Then we all went about the business of cleaning things up. They sure looked cute in their dress-up clothes, however!

Devil's Corral

2008-01-07T22:37:00.000-08:00

Today I hiked down a small canyon to the Susan River. The particular place is called Devil's Corral. It was a beautiful winter day. No wind. Sun shining. Quiet. Just the sound of the water. I had a few hours to myself...waiting for the sun to highlight the river banks a bit more. It was peaceful. I loved it. I am so thankful for the season's of nature.

I came home to at least, no kidding, at least 5000 snow geese in the field right behind our house, (Hopefully pictures of that tomorrow.) and Addison. She wanted to play in the snow so badly. So we bundled up and headed out. We played on the sled, built a snowman, snow angels, the list could go on. Oh, the memories. We had a good time together.

A New Sunbeam

2008-01-06T20:19:00.000-08:00

Today was Addison's first day as a Sunbeam. Only three graduated from Nursery and moved on to Primary. Addison is the only girl. She was quite excited. I talked to her about it all week - preparing her for the move. I think I was more nervous about the day than she was. The other two children are boys and they cried and screamed, the mothers came in....Addie sat quietly. She said once that she felt she needed to check up on Payton in Nursery (mother). She was so cute. It is so hard to believe that she old enough to be in Primary. I pray that she will always have the righteous desire to go to church and gain a strong testimony. Hopefully, the example that she will set will have an influence over her father.

A First

2008-01-05T22:16:00.000-08:00

This is my first blog. I am very apprehensive about starting this. I guess I am writing about the life of myself and my two, absolutely adorable daughters, Addison (3) and Payton (1). We have quite the life and this blog spot, I hope, will show that. I don't know if I can make my blog as exciting and creative as others that I have visited. So, my dull, plain blog spot will have to do. I hope this isn't a reflection on my life....ha. Here goes...