We're Off to Disneyland

We were up and loaded for our fun get away on Sunday just after 9:30 am.  As I document this I wonder why we didn't get up and going on our way home.  (more on that later)  Carla picked me up and then we picked up our driver, Patti. (Patti drove Carla's car and did a fantastic job) Last but not least we got Robin and we were off!  Carla wanted to spend one night in Vegas because she likes to gamble. Originally we were going to leave Monday and drive straight through.  It was a good idea to do it like we did because we were able to add Universal Studio to our trip. I couldn't complain and didn't because this was "our" trip and we wanted to accommodate everyone.  Robin got us a hotel a little ways away from the strip.  It was nice and not too costly.  Robin loves Bingo and so Patti and I joined her.  Carla didn't really enjoy gambling this time because she wasn't winning.  She likes to play when you win and can continue playing on that money.  Patti did come out ahead.  I didn't put any money down...I don't like gambling. 

During the night I received some texts saying that the kids were in the Hospital again but this time they were staying.  Kelsi was doing everything right and progress was being made.  Little Sadie finally came at 4:16.  She only weighed 5 lbs 7 oz and was 18 1/2 inches long.  More about her story on her post.

We weren't really worried about getting up too early because had all day to visit Disneyland with our 3 day hopper pass.

We went down and got some breakfast before leaving and Robin scared us all.  She was eating and falling asleep while she ate.  I think she might have taken some medication twice without knowing it.  She was a little woozy.  We took care of her and the long drive was good for her so she could sleep it off. (she hasn't been feeling good but decided to come anyway...which we are all glad)

I am not a wonderful traveler when it comes to holding my bladder.  I need to stop every now and then.  Carla refuses to use public restrooms.  Anyway I was feeling the urge when I saw a little town and Patti said that she just noticed the sign for the rest stop which was about 30 miles.  I thought I could wait for the rest stop.  It wasn't funny when we came to the rest stop to find it blocked off and closed.  Yikes...by now I was really needing to go.  Barstow was at least another 30 minutes and I didn't think I could make it that far.  When I gotta go, I really gotta go.  We finally came to an exit that had one little gas station.  We had to stop.  When we went inside there was a line of about 30 people.  Oh my goodness!  It was still better standing in a line knowing that my turn would come.  There were signs in the store that said the restrooms were for paying costumers.  I bought a few treats and holy cow they were expensive.  Two to three times what they should have cost.  Oh well...I was glad to spend whatever for that potty break.

We hit traffic and boy did it slow us down.  What should have been a few hours ended up taking us 2-3 more hours.  It was fine though we weren't worried about the time.  We checked into our Hotel which was just across the street from the back side of California Adventure.  We went over and got our passes and headed to California adventure.  We went straight to The Tower of Terror.  I think that must be Robin's favorite ride.  The place was packed since it was President's Day...but it was also open until midnight so we were able to do a lot.  We did a few things on the Adventure side and then went over to Disneyland which was less crowded.  We rode a few more rides and walked around.

The Castle was covered as well as It's a Small World.  So strange seeing that and kind of disappointing.  I guess they need to do this every once in awhile though to keep things up and looking good.

We watched the fireworks and had a great time.  I think we stayed until closing and so we were a bit tired by the time we got back to our room.  We did plenty of exercising this entire week. I thought the weather was perfect.  Carla thought it was a little cold.  She dressed in layers and sometimes used one of our jackets as well. (skinny people aren't insulated) 

Something a little bit funny but also kind of sad is that Robin talks in her sleep.  Every single night but the last night was the worst.  I think she was scared and ticked off.  Robin doesn't mumble...you can understand her quite well.  Bless her heart! ♥

Love Is In The Air Meme

Love, to you. 

Define love in your own words.  Love is caring for something deeply.
What do you want in a relationship? To be loved and cherished more than another!
What do you contribute to a relationship? Fun! I take care of others and their needs the best I can.  

Currently..... 
Do you have a Valentine? I have two.  Larry will always be my Valentine and we were blessed with Jaydan in 1991 and so he will also always be my Valentine!
Describe the perfect V-day date in your opinion: I love celebrating Jaydan.  I do love when Larry sends me flowers and gives me chocolate.  Going out to dinner is always nice too.
Dream Date? I enjoy about everything and don't really dream of doing more than we do.  I have even enjoyed a walk in our field checking on cows because I was with Larry.  Anything when you get time and attention.
What is your crush's name? Larry Joe Ropelato
Do you believe in love at first sight? Sure...I believe it happens and why not?  When you like something you know it.  I know it doesn't happen all the time.  I know it didn't for Larry or I.  Our love developed as we got to know each other better as is true with anyone I guess.  We found each other attractive but I  don't think it was love at first sight.

This or that 
Chocolates or Flowers....you must pick one! If it's from Larry I prefer flowers since I seldom buy myself flowers but quite often buy myself chocolate.
A short kiss or a big hug? I love hugs!
Cute and dimwitted, or Average and brilliant? Average and brilliant.  The brilliant side makes them cute. ☺

Micellanious 
Turn-ons? compliments and attention!
Turn-offs? paying attention to someone else while I'm around.
What thing should a guy never say to you? That he's thinking of someone else. (another gal)
How do you feel about kissing on the first date? To each their own.  I cherished my kisses and gave them away only when I felt something for the person I was sharing them with.
Questions from Here

♥A Day of Love♥

Boy today was busy.  I had lots of laundry to do before taking Jared to his basketball game.  I didn't finish it until the evening.  Then I ran to get Jaydan some new garments for his birthday since his are pretty old.  The roads were packed and it took me forever to turn around.  I thought the distribution center was still at the Deseret Industries but it's not.  A lady told me to go left at the light and then it would be on the right hand side.  I was in the left lane and could see Deseret book on the right side of the light.  It took me 10 minutes to turn around and get through the light and to the store.  I needed to run to a baby shower and barely had time.  I really got there a little late but called to let them know I was coming.  I do not like crowds...especially crowded roads.

When I got home Larry, Jared, Kimleighel and I went to deliver the grands a valentine.  I text them all to see if they were home and they all were.  I was surprised and glad.  We got big hugs from all of them except little Jordyn.  She is sick and Larry ended up helping Kevin give her a blessing.  Poor little thing.  I do not like seeing my little's sick.  I think my grands are all so cute!  They surely make this gramma's heart smile!

Bennett is working in SLC and is staying with my mom and so we went to visit them for a little bit.  They were going to go to dinner and we needed to get home to make dinner so a short visit was perfect for all of us.  I sure do enjoy my little brother.  It's so good to have him around. 

 Since it's Jaydan's birthday we fixed some of his favorite things.  I don't do fancy because we all hate cleaning up afterwards. (I would like to though if I had the room for cute plates and serving dishes.)   We had steak, tortellini, alfredo and marinara sauce and red jello.  Jaydan wanted strawberry lemonade to drink and we had raspberry cheesecake for dessert.  It was yummy

After dinner Jaydan opened his presents and then went to the Jazz game.  He got a bunch of new garments and two remote control helicopters.  I am hoping that he will let Jared play with one...that's why he got two.  I didn't think it would be much fun flying one by yourself.  We will see what happens.  I might be buying Jared one of his own.

I don't usually do too much for Valentines because I try to keep the focus on Jaydan but the kids usually get some kind of Valentine treat with their "red" dinner!

This week has been busy and I am really excited to leave town for a week.  I just need to relax in a tub now with the candle burning that Carla gave me and use the peppermint body wash and lotion to help get me ready.

Sadie will be born while I am gone.  I believe Kelsi is going to get started on Monday.  I will be looking forward to receiving texts with pictures.  I will keep them in my prayers.  I'm excited for Braxton to be a daddy....he is too!  He's a darling husband and will be a terrific daddy.  Life just keeps getting better!♥♥♥

My Favorite Valentine

Jaydan is the best Valentine Gift ever!  I'm so happy that he is mine!  The kid makes me laugh out loud!  Jaydan is so much fun and always seems to be happy.  Jaydan has always been fun and easy.  I loved taking him with me everywhere when he was small.  I loved our time together before he left on his mission.  There was a little window that we had each other to ourselves for a few hours a day.  Jaydan doesn't ask for anything and very self reliant.  I'm glad he still lives at home but I think that might be changing here shortly.  I'm okay with him moving out if that's what he chooses.  Growing up is fun to do...sometimes.  Jaydan is really good to Kimleighel and Jared and they both adore him.  He brings out the good in them and can always cheer them up.  He doesn't mind spending time with them and often takes them with him.

Jaydan has always been so easy going.  He's grown up to be a wonderful young man.  I'm proud of all that he has done.  He is just a good kid and I love him to pieces.  I'm so glad that the doctor encouraged me to get started with Jaydan.  I would have waited and I suspect he wouldn't have lived if I had.  I believe there was some intervention 24 years ago....I'm so glad.  Jaydan adds so much to our family!  Oh I love this son of mine...my Valentine!

Friday the 13th

Love is in the Air!  That's what Valentines Day is all about right?  Our Home Teacher brought us by a yummy treat  last night and he looked so cute carrying it I had to get a picture. ☺  Valentines Day is a day to remember others and show a little extra love to them.  We appreciate the extra love shown to us.

I made my grands and the kids still home a little gift of  love.  I gave away my molds that I was wanting to use but still had my funnel and so I made kisses.  I wish I could put the foil around them better but oh well they still turned out cute and we will deliver them tomorrow.   I know each little  will "Love" our little gift to them.

It's a tradition to take my Mom and Linda to Chili's for their Birthdays.  We only get ribs because that is also a tradition.  It's the only time I ever order ribs but I sure do enjoy them. Susan and I each ordered 1/2 a rack but the Birthday Girl's got the full.  They had enough for dinner.  We ordered a meal for Bennett to go so my mom could enjoy her ribs and Bennett wouldn't be jealous.  

I wasn't going to save the silly pictures and Linda wanted me to delete them but they are part of the fun memory we made today.  They make me smile.  We have a good time together.  I love the one of my mom in the center on the bottom.  The workers brought her and Linda ice cream and sang to them and my mom was thrilled.  She clapped along.  I think she is enjoying being 78...heck you might as well enjoy where you in life!

Carla and Robin came to my house when I got home and we made Valentine Candy Grams.  It was a lot more fun making them together.  I am glad that Carla had the idea and I know that Larry will be thrilled with his.  Robin made her sons each one and she was so funny making up sayings to go with all the Candy bars.  She didn't use all the sayings and we didn't either but I sure laughed.  Robin is funny!  I think they all turned out really cute.  I enjoyed the few hours we spent together making them.  Hooray for Friends!  We used Science Fair boards which worked out great.

Jaydan doesn't like going to dinner on Valentines Day and so we went tonight.  Places were still busy but not as bad as they will be tomorrow.  He chose to go to ABC Mandarin and here it is a few hours later and I am still so full.  I barely made a dent in my meal but it filled me.  Jared was happy to finish my left overs.  (I'm sure going out to lunch was part of the reason I got full so fast)

Braxton and Kelsi went to the hospital hoping to have their baby but they were sent home after a few hours.  I think Kelsi is just so ready to meet little Sadie Lou that it's driving her crazy.  I just figure she's not quite ready yet and we all need to be patient.  The doctor said he would start Kelsi on Sunday is she wants which is only a week early.  I think it might be best just to let nature takes its course.  It all brings back memories of when I went to have my babies.  ☺ Fun Times!

Food 4 Thought Friday

I liked this challenge that my friend Jodi threw out on her blog.  I would not have done it before because the last few years my blog book has reached the maximum pages that it could have.  This year however I decided that instead of stressing about cutting back my posts to use less pages I would just make 2 books a year and divide the year in half.  That way I can add a few more thoughts or pictures if I want and it won't matter.  So here we go...

Food 4 Thought Friday~This week's questions:

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Breakfast What are your weekend plans?  It is Valentines this weekend which also means it's Jaydan's birthday and so we have some celebrating to do.  Jaydan would rather go to dinner for his birthday on and day other than his birthday to avoid the crowds.  I'm not sure where he will choose to go but I know it will be enjoyable spending time with our birthday boy.  It's enjoyable for me to watch that little son of mine put away the food.  He can eat a lot!  I will also be delivering Valentines to my grands.  I am going to make Rice Krispy Treats shaped like bears or hearts or dinosaurs or whatever I decide.  I'm sure there will be a variety.  (added later...I was going to have a variety until I looked for the molds and couldn't find them.  I believe they went to the DI since I hadn't used them for awhile.  I must have been in a cleaning mood.  That's why I hate getting rid of stuff....eventually you will need it and wish that you had it.) So...Rice Krispy Treats shaped like a "kiss" is what my grands will be getting....I didn't get rid of the funnel.

Lunch Where would you go right now if you had no other obligations?  I would go to my mom's and stay all night watching movies with her and eating popcorn.

Dinner What brought you great joy this week?  My family and friends always bring me joy.  I love when my kids come home and look for me.  I love when the grands see me and run to me and give me great big hugs.  Sometimes they even jump and wrap their little legs around me so they aren't touching the floor.  Even the babies get excited to see me and will reach for me.  Another thing that brought me great joy was going to SNAP!  Ryan ran to me and gave me the biggest and tightest hug and looked into my eyes while smiling his big, cheesy smile and said: "I like You".  A few people I haven't seen for years also grabbed me and hugged me.  It took me a minute on a few to remember them.  Connor squealed when he saw me and opened his arms for a hug.  He hugged me so tight it almost hurt. ☺  Being L♥ved brings me Joy and brightens my spirit!

Midnight Snack What is your favorite dessert of all time?  Hands Down....I love Cookies more than any other dessert.  I like all kinds of cookies but the best ones are soft and have chocolate chips that melt in your mouth.  Natalie made some last week that were perfect!  I loved breaking them apart and watching the chocolate spread.  I even like store bought cookies but have to dunk them in milk.  mmmmmm! I ♥ Cookies!  Cookies with Chocolate are always best!  Anything with Chocolate is pretty darn wonderful!

Recipe of the Week (instead of your recipe for life what is it just for the week?)  This week I will have to say the we must forgive ourselves for doing dumb, thoughtless acts.  Just because we make mistakes once in awhile those mistakes do NOT define us.  They make us realize we still have to work hard at doing the right thing and that we are going to fall short every now and then.  So be kind to yourself by forgiving yourself.

a Pamper Me Kind of Day

Today I got a little pampered!  I went bowling and my team exchanged valentines.  I think it's fun to exchange Valentines!  Carla had an extra gift for me in her car so that I could be pampered even more.  It was a gift with a peppermint candle, peppermint body wash, peppermint lotion and peppermint "kisses".  Wowzers!  She said she wanted me to be sure to take a nice long bath with all the nice peppermint and be really relaxed and ready for a lot of fun this next week.  I am ready to go and have fun even if it means I will miss the arrival of little Sadie Lou.  Braxton promised me he would send pictures.  Braxton has been so good about keeping informed of Kelsi's progress.  His phone calls are appreciated by this mommy.  After bowling I went and got a pedicure and the gal giving me mine talked me into a manicure too.

When I first was getting seated I made sure my chair was working.  A few of us had a good laugh and the guy there teased me about having a broken chair last time.  All the chairs are new now and so I was able to enjoy a nice massage while I was having my hands and feet pampered.  I got done just in time to grab a few pizza's for dinner and head on over to Dana's to get my hair done.  It was a relaxing kind of day.

Tonight for SNAP the Roy Group sponsored a Valentines Dance.  It was at the Church that I use to go to when I lived in Roy.  It was nice having it so close this week.  The place was packed and everyone had a really good time.  I loved seeing a few more people that I knew.  I got lots of hugs and hand shakes.  These people light up my life.  They are such blessings and make me smile.  Ryan (with me and Virginia) loves to make me laugh.  He came running to me when he saw me and found me a few times to go with him.  I did avoid dancing tonight.  I would rather watch everyone else dance.  I met cute Lisa's boyfriend, James and think they are the cutest little couple ever.  My soul was filled tonight being around my special friends.

Two Kisses are better than One!  I opened both of these this week.  I consumed the one Jodi made pretty quickly....it was so good.  I think she put oreo cookies in the rice krispies...yumm!  The chocolate kiss is harder to consume quickly so I only bit off a little of it...but it satisfied my cravings!