BrinerBlip

Day 3...What...No In-N-Out???

2012-01-11T23:50:00.000-08:00

Day 3 started out great! Tried a few new things...then we had to stop for dinner on the way to drop off one of the boys at youth group...In-N-Out was the decision. Oh well. I had a few fries, and ate when we got home. :)

Breakfast - Egg whites with cut up zucchini, 1/2 grapefruit
Snack - Soy Beans
Lunch - Kale and Edamame salad with cranberries, almonds, tomatoes (yum!)
Snack - carrots
Dinner - Southwestern black bean soup, piece of whole grain bread
Dr. Oz's tea
2.65 miles walk/jog
All in all...another good day. Health wise...feeling much better!

Day 2

2012-01-10T23:45:00.000-08:00

Day 2!

Breakfast - Protein Shake (even turned down donuts!!)
Lunch - Lunch meeting at Elbow Room - mixed green salad with penne pasta with alfredo sauce
Snack - carrots & hummus
Dinner - Whole wheat thin spaghetti, with grilled eggplant, portebella mushrooms, zucchini, butternut squash with marinara sauce, mixed green salad with cranberries and whole wheat croutons, garlic bread. Glass of wine
Dr. Oz's Green Tea
Exercised - 2.2 miles
Feeling great!

I'm baaaaack.....

2012-01-09T22:34:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I have missed blogging. It's been over a year. What better time to start, than January...it's a new year.

So...First up.....New Years Resolutions... Mine is for the DOGS!

D - Diet & Exercise
O - Organization
G - God
S - Simplify & Surrender

To start with the D...Today was my first day as a vegetarian. I have given up red meat for a while now, but after having some "issues", and also eating unhealthy for the past year...I'm going to try it for a while. :) I'll be blogging/journaling about my menu's and plans...feel free to offer any advice.

I’m a Vegetarian…Day 1

Today went better than expected. :) Grocery shopped…and read a lot of labels. They sneak meat in everything! Here’s the menu for today
Breakfast - Protein shake
Snack - Almonds
Lunch - Mixed green salad with walnuts, cranberries, grapefruit and feta
Snack - Hummus with carrots & low fat pita chips
Dinner - Southwestern Black Bean soup - YUM!
Snack - Honey Roasted Soy Beans
Drink - 32 oz. of Dr. Oz's Tangerine Weight-orade Green Tea
Exercise - Ran/Walked 2.2 miles
Probably went too much on the “fat” side with all the nuts today…but I’m okay with that for now.

Live from CA...It's Saturday Night!!

2010-11-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

The Hosts - Sally O'Malley (Mish) and Mary Katherine Gallager (Johnna)

The Set -

On the set goodies...

The Cast -

Roxbury Guy & Mary Katherine Sally O'Malley & Falcon Man

Delicious Dish & News Anchorman \in a box & Canteen Girl

The Culps Cajun Man & Gilly

The Culp's Mr. Schweddy & Delicious Dish Anchor

Target Lady & Hanz Linda Richmond & Mary Katherine

Joy Behr & Whoopi Franz & Sarah Palin

Chris Farley & Sarah Palin Mac Gruber & Sheryl Crow

Rosannadana & Mary Katherine

Friends since 7th Grade!!

No costume = custom t-shirt :)

Lunch lady & a Sloppy Joe

We even had a real Jeopardy game!!

Dinner from the taco truck!

Such a fun night!!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-17T23:53:00.000-08:00

The Perfect Pumpkins

Fall is my favorite time of year! I especially love taking pictures at the pumpkin patch!

After getting the go ahead from the staff at Pumpkin King...

Ethan chose a pumpkin that almost matched his weight!

It's hard to get Dawson to pose, let alone look at the camera...but he loved sitting on the pumpkins!

Zac- still humoring mom for a picture. :)

Silly Boys!

Colton- knows the picture drill

The most handsome boys I know!!

Zac and Ethan's pumpkins

Colton and Dawson's pumpkins

Mom's pumpkin...lasted much longer!

The crew

Zac (Ninja), Christian (Dodgers player), Ethan (GIJoe ninja), Brandon (alien), Colton (werewolf), Dawson (motorcross rider)

Dawson and his buddy Noah

Ethan and his buddy Justin

Such good friends!!

Some SWEET news!

2010-09-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited, this Fall, I have hit the ground running with a new business! For years, while I was a consultant for Southern Living at HOME, I have collected a ton of their products! I decided a while back, that I would start renting out my pieces for small parties and showers. Pineapple Party Girl Rental was launched! I now several centerpieces in quantities of 20 and up, and am always adding pieces! Check out my Pineapple Party Girl website and my Pineapple Party Girl blog!

I also played around with doing some candy buffets...and am happy to say it has turned into a booming business! Spoonful of Sugar Custom Candy Buffets! I just love it! From birthday party, showers, and weddings, they have been a hit! Check out my Spoonful of Sugar blog!

Family road trip...to Colorado!

2010-08-13T00:22:00.000-07:00

This summer we decided to take a little road trip...to Colorado. We have several great friends there, and 2 of the families offered to have us stay with them while we were there. So we jumped in Eric's new Chevy truck...and drove...over 4,000 miles round trip...all 6 of us!

On the way Eric and I shared driving, and arrived in Green River, UT at about 1 a.m. to unload everything and everyone, sleep for a few hours, and then get back on the road to Colorado!

First stop, our friends the Weston's!

Wade and Alana graciously welcomed all 6 of us for the first couple of days. Ethan and their daughter Loni, were inseparatable! Since being pals at Disneyland last year for 5 days, they have become great "friends".

Their son Lucas, and Dawson played together too..when Dawson wasn't being a turkey!

While at the Weston's, we visited the Denver Aquarium, while Eric and the other hubbies visited the Coors Brewery. The aquarium was great!

We also had a great time at their pool area too!

Later that night we met up with more friends for a fun night with no kiddos!

Dinner at Lo-Do's. Johnna, Tammy & Rhonda

Eric & JB Johnna, Tammy, Rhonda, Alana Johnna, Chrissy, Alana

After a fun dinner, we headed to Sing-Sing Piano Bar...for a ton of laughs!

We had a great time people watching, sipping from the Bucket, watching Eric and Joe up on stage doing the dance from the Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Alana's Birthday song! ;)

Everyday we had something fun planned! One of the things I looked forward to the most was a reunion BBQ at the Degenharts!

Johnna, Tammie, Rhonda, Tammy, Alana, and Juliet

The night was great! All of the kids got along great, and became instant friends!

Next stop for us was to stay at the Degenharts!

Johnna & Tammy

We had a great time staying at Nick and Tammy's. Their daughter Rachel, 15, loved Dawson. Their son Nicholas, and Colton and Zac became instant friends, even though they hadn't seen each other in over 4 years!

One of my favorite outings was to Winter Park. Breathtakingly beautiful and such fun!

The most "thrilling" part of the day was the Alpine Slide! Eric, Colton, Zac, and Ethan all rode to the top of the ski slope, and then rode down the hill on a wheeled sled! Crazy!!

Eric was the only one who ended up wounded with a scraped leg...well, that, and our video camera that was in his pocket. :(

Right after leaving Winter Park, one of the guys spotted a moose on the side of the road. We all stopped and took about a million pictures!

On the last full day, we visited Eldorado Park.

This was such a relaxing and fun day...until the rain started. :)

We ended the night in Boulder.

The kids taking a silly picture.

For the drive home, we decided to drive straight through. It was loooooong.....but it felt good to be home!

We are so thankful for such amazing friends and their families! The trip was one we'll never forget!

A Day at the Lake

2010-07-12T22:02:00.000-07:00

We had a great time on the Karlson boat last Saturday. It was just thing to forget about the things on the calendar, and just enjoy a beautiful summer day at Shaver!

The boys had a great time on the tube. (actually all of us did!) Ethan even did a backflip off the tube...and got back on to ride!

Colton even tried a few times on the skis. (He didn't get up, but he was a good sport!)

Zac was the flag man. :)

Dawson wasn't thrilled with the boat ride, but finally got comfortable and enjoyed himself....on the shore.

Once upon a time...

2010-07-10T09:52:00.000-07:00

July 10, 1990, that is the day Eric asked me to be his girlfriend. Yes, I know that once you get married you are supposed to just forget about that anniversary, but I don't. :) It was the yes that started everything. The yes that changed my life forever. Little did I realize the 20 years later, I would still be in love with my best friend, have 4 great boys, and be so happy. Love ya Eric!

Let's Boogie!

2010-07-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July, we went to Cambria for the weekend with our friends the Fosters. The boys had a great time boogie boarding in Cayucas. The first day, they all shared one boogie board, and must of stayed in the freezing water for 2 1/2 hours!

Ethan quickly had enough of the cold, and decided to relax in the sun...Dawson, on the other hand, hates the sand, so hung out on his beach towel the whole time.

The next day, they begged to go back...and rent wetsuits...and more boogie boards! We left Dawson and Daddy with sunburned shins...and headed back to the beach.

Since it was the 4th of July, there were a ton of people, but they also had a great sand castle contest.

So amazing!!

We ended the night here, to watch fireworks over the water. Such a fun time!!

Hooked....or Hype?

2010-06-09T14:58:00.000-07:00

OK, I know I'm not a teenage girl, nor do I have teenage girls, and yes, I know I'm a few years behind, but no, I have not read the Twilight series. I have always wondered what the "hype" was about these books? I am not an avid reader. I love fun, light-hearted, girlie books, but usually only read on trips. So, all this to say, my babysitter is letting me read her books. Honestly, I am not expecting much, nor do I think I'll be on "Team Edward", but who knows? :)

Ethan turns 7! How Super!

2010-05-20T16:15:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my little man is 7! It seems like just yesterday he was toddling around, and now he's one of the big boys!! He had a great time at his Super Mario birthday party!!

The kids had a great time playing Mario, and a bunch of other fun games (look at next post for details).

Super cute & yummy cake! Ethan lost his mustache blowing out his candles. :)

My SUPER boys!

Super Fun Super Mario Party...the details!

2010-05-20T15:51:00.000-07:00

While thinking of different themes for Ethan's birthday, Super Mario seemed like it would be great! My boys LOVE Mario, so I started my quest for the Super Party! I wanted to post these ideas so they can hopefully help someone, and cut down on the hours and hours of web searching that I did. :)

First up...invitations...

A little time consuming....but cute! :)

Decorations -
For decorations I made piranah plants. An idea I saw on another blog. I cut out the mouth, and sprayed the outside red. I painted the white spots, and then attached styrofoam teeth with toothpicks. I wrapped wooden dowels with green ribbon, and stuck them in a hurricane with moss and rocks.

It was virtually impossible to find any Mario items locally, so I used my printer for a lot!

We let each guest choose either a Mario or Luigi hat. (I cut out white felt and glued them onto the caps) The girls got to choose a princess crown. We also had coin bags where they collected the coins that they earned during game time.

Games -
We did several games. The first one, I drew a Koopa, and the kids had to throw water balloons at it. If they hit the Koopa picture they got too coins, if they hit his belly, they got three, and they got one if they didn't hit it at all. We also did pass the Ka-bomb, a black balloon that is played like hot potato. (The balloon kept popping on the grass...so we eventually used a ball). We also played Pop the Goomba. These were brown balloons that had coins in them. They could pop as many as they could, and keep the coins. They had 1-3 coins in them. The last game we did "Break the Brick". I had wrapped a box, and made it look like one of the Mario bricks. The kids got to run under it and try to jump and smash it. Inside was more coins, candy, etc.

Food -

We served mini sliders, which were a hit. We also had Mario's Power Punch, Princess Peach's Peach Tea, and Luigi's Limeaid.

The cake was made by Frosted Cakery. It not only looked great, but tasted amazing! I also did extra cupcakes decorated like mushrooms. I used white chocolate chips, and melting chocolates for the spots.

We also did a candy buffet favor bar, and everyone got to make a goody bag as they left!

Happy Birthday To...

2010-05-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

It's very rare that I blog about my faults...but this one is pretty funny. Anyone who knows me knows I'm a multi-tasker. It can be a good thing...and a bad thing. Apparently, when I booked Ethan's cake, I told them my older son, Colton's name. When it arrived 30 minutes before the party, it looked like this...

Amazing looking cake...but wrong name. Graciously the delivery girl took it back, and they had it fixed and delivered back to me in no time! The Frosted Cakery girls are the best!!!

The cake turned out GREAT! Everyone loved it, and it tasted as good as it looked!!

Briner Boys up at Bat!

2010-05-12T16:24:00.000-07:00

This year Ethan and Dawson played on the Clovis Christian Orange Team. It was a great season! Not only did Ethan and Dawson get to be on the same team, but they also got to play with their cousins, Sam, Ben, and Peter. They even got their dad and Uncle Eric to be their coaches!

This was Ethan's 3rd year of T-Ball, and took it very seriously.

He hit from his dad's pitches, and loved sliding in to home plate...look out Giants, here he comes!

Dawson on the other hand, was "here for the party"! He loved seeing his cousins, and loved running the bases.

The last night after their game, the boys had an award ceremony where they all got trophies! Great job Briner Boys!

Responsibilities

2010-04-26T14:53:00.000-07:00

Last week we got to go to Carlsbad. Eric had a conference, so we packed everyone up and made a trip of it! Friday we went to Legoland as a family. It was a ton of fun! But it was also memorable for another reason. Eric had taken the big boys to wait for a ride, so I grabbed Ethan and Dawson. They wanted to go down the big slides. I however did not, so I told Ethan to help Dawson. He grabbed his mat for him, climbed to the top of the stairs, and then laid it out for him, then gave him a little push. They did this over and over. When they were done, I told Ethan how proud I was of him for helping his brother. Ethan replied, "Well Mom, this is the first time you trusted me to help Dawson on my own...I had to do my best, and not let you down." I love that kid!

Ahhh....Ahhh...Ahh-Choooo!

2010-01-25T12:07:00.000-08:00

I have had the strangest thing happen. I have been running about 10-15 miles a week for about a 3 months now. I have always hated running, but now seem to long for it! (Weird...I know!) I actually find it really relaxing. Well, several times after my longer runs, I start sneezing...really sneezing. My eyes start watering, and my nose starts running...really running...I mean Boston Marathon pace running! This usually lasts anywhere from 2-36 hours. Very strange. Yesterday morning it happened again. It was like an instant cold! Today....gone. I decided to google it last night, and found that, no, I am not allergic to exercise...it's something that a lot of people have. Over 50,000 items popped up.

I did find some theories that it has to do with your body temperature, air temperature, having too much histamine, and getting rid of toxins. Basically it boils down to exercise-induced allergies, and they don't know what causes or cures it. So strange!

Have you ever heard of this before?

Luckily, it does not happen every time I run. But it's not going to keep me down! :)

2010 Goal - Run 500 miles...22.8 completed to date!

Back-Blogging update

2010-01-21T17:03:00.000-08:00

I already confessed that I am guilty of back-blogging, so while I sit in bed recovering from the stomach flu, I thought I would catch up....check out July-Sept. so far. :)

A little get away

2010-01-21T14:58:00.000-08:00

Eric had a business meeting in San Francisco last week, so luckily the boys got to stay with grandma, and we snuck off for a few days. The first night we stayed in South San Fran for his meeting, then the next day we headed into the city.

We stayed at Parc 55. What a great location and view from our room!

Right across from shopping too!

We shopped for most of the day on Thursday, then took the trolley down to Pier 39.

Alcatraz at sundown

On our way out on Friday, we even went to lunch at a featured "Man vs. Food" restaurant...Tommy's Joynt.

What a nice break with my best friend!

HaPpY nEw YeAr!!!

2010-01-01T16:11:00.000-08:00

January 1st, 2010! Wow!

Is it just me, or does it seem like we just had just stocked tons of water bottles, canned food, generators, and a months worth of necessities in our garages, waiting for the unknown to happen when the clock hit 12:01 a.m. in the year 2000?

So hard to believe that was 10 years ago!

Well, on to today....being January 1st, it's always a day of inspiration, motivation and ambition! Most people choose to, "make a resolution, not to make a resolution". Personally, I am not. Hey, if you don't succeed fully with your resolution, the "Resolution Police" are not going to arrest you, and you may have not achieved your goal, but maybe made progress that you might not have made before.

So, here it goes...really I am not posting this for anyone to say "good job", or "your crazy", but more for a record for me to look back on. :)

My 2010 Resolutions

1. To run 500 miles this year

2. To complete a 1/2 marathon

3. Keep up on blogging

4. Monthly family nights

5. Read 5 books

Do you have any resolutions? Want to join me on mine? :)

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2009-12-21T23:39:00.000-08:00

So many great memories this holiday!

Searching for the perfect tree is always a hunt! This is the second year we have gone with the Karlson's to Cobbs. The boys had fun running up and down the aisles of Christmas trees with their cousins. We did decide on one tree, but went to another lot the next day for the "big tree".

Dawson & Santa

Sweet Memories

For the past few years, we have been decorating Gingerbread houses on Thanksgiving. Most of the family pitches in, and it's always a lot of fun!

Merry & Bright!

This year, Eric (and Colton) put lights on both stories of the house! I was a nervous wreck watching them, but I will have to say they looked awesome!!

Christmas Tree Lane

with the "Wilks Girls"

This year we walked Christmas tree lane with our friends the Wilkinson's. (minus a few) The kids had a fun time counting dogs on the walk. Such a fun night!

Merry Christmas from the Briners!

2009-12-17T08:56:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from the Briners! Here’s what we have been up to this year!

Eric continues to enjoy his job, and we are so thankful for it’s growth! This year he and a few of his employees worked on the Extreme Makeover House in Fresno. It was fun to be behind the scenes of such a great project!

Rings, necklaces, and bracelets have replaced pottery, urns, and candlesticks. In July, Johnna was flown to Chicago, and offered a position to work with Jewels by Park Lane. She has already earned a trip for her and Eric to Paris in March, and had no idea how much fun bling could be!

Relax, it’s not all work and no play for Eric and Johnna. J Eric enjoyed hunting with the boys this year, along with coaching Ethan’s soccer team. Johnna has found the new love of running. She has done several 5K’s for fun this year, and is working on improving her time, as well as beating the boys!

Year of 1994? Two young kids in love got married on February 5^th! Eric and Johnna celebrated being married 15 years this past February!

Colton is now 12, and this year went out for track & football. Unfortunately, he broke his arm after making the Clovis Cowboys football team. He quickly decided he liked soccer much better! At the end of the soccer season, his coach also awarded him Defense Player of the Year!

Hair? Did you notice it? Zac has decided to grow his out. It all started, “just for soccer”, but now we can’t imagine cutting it! Zac also had a great year of soccer, and also earned his hunting license this summer, just in time for dove season!

River Valley Church has been a great blessing to our family. Eric and Johnna have enjoyed teaching every other Sunday in the elementary class. We would love for you to visit with us!

Institute of Briner Learning is still in session. Colton is a 6^th grader this year, and likes working more independently, especially on his new computer. Zac is in 5^th grade, and enjoys reading. Ethan is a 1^st grader, and has started reading his brothers chapter books! Dawson has his own desk, and does a great job at his “schoolwork” too!

Six years old…it’s hard to believe Ethan is that old! Yes, he is still a little comedian and thinks he’s 10! He played t-ball and got to have his dad be his coach on his U8 soccer team this year. Their Freedom Lightening team even got to play at Grizzly Stadium!

Three years old.....I know, seems impossible that our baby…Dawson turned three! What a little character DT is. Like his brothers, he doesn’t miss a beat! He loves country music, (especially Jason Aldean), waffles, and numbers! Whether it’s telling time, saying our phone number, or any number he sees…he knows them all!

M…I…C…K…E….Y….MOUSE! Yes, in May we took a week vacation to Disneyland! We had a great time! Breakfast at Goofy’s Kitchen, Colton and Zac attending the Jedi Training academy, California Adventure, and spending time with our friends from Colorado, were the some of the highlights of our trip!

Athomewithjb@sbcglobal.net is our e-mail, and brinerblip@blogspot.com is our blog. Johnna is also on Facebook, so make sure you’re her “friend”, and challenge her to a game of Bejeweled! ;) (Channel 30 did a small segment on her being a Gaming Girl)

Sending holiday blessings to your family! Have a wonderful Christmas & New Year! The Briners

Guilty....of Back Blogging....

2009-12-17T07:01:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, I have fallen behind in my blogging. I am hoping to catch up, and post some of the things that have happened over the past few months. Yes, some of you may feel like it's cheating. ;) But for me, it's like a personal diary, and I have some major holes! I will be setting the dates back to fit them in too. Hopefully you die hard bloggers can forgive me. ;) Back to blogging soon!

Happy Birthday Briner Buck-a-roos!

2009-11-28T22:49:00.000-08:00

This year we decided to celebrate not one, or two, but three Briner Boys birthday. Since the boys birthdays are 19 days apart from each other, we held it right in the middle, on Dawson's birthday.

The Corral

Goodies for the little buck-a-roos

Cowboys & Cowgirls

There was pony rides for the little kids, and horse back riding for the older kids.

The Festivities

A fun filled day for everyone!

Happy 3rd Birthday Dawson!

Happy 11th Birthday Zac!

Happy 12th Birthday Colton!

Y'all come back, y'here!

Party held at Rick Kelley Performance Horses, Clovis

Yee-Haw!

2009-11-27T22:11:00.000-08:00

Ok, so for some strange reason, every year around the boys birthday, I get a strange ambition to want to create a birthday cake. So, after searching for countless hours on the computer, I found the one to make...

Well, I know it's not perfect, but the boys were proud of it!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T21:32:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Carving Masterminds

Pumpkin 1 - created by Ethan and Dad - One-eyed-pumpkin-monster

Pumpkin 2 - created by Colton - Puking Pumpkin

Pumpkin 3 - created by Zac - Fang-led Pumpkin

This years costumes...

Unfortunately, gone are the days for cute costumes for Colton and Zac. Luckily, I have Ethan and Dawson who I can "direct" their decisions. :)

Colton - Army guy

Zac - alien

Ethan - cowboy

Dawson - cowboy

The gang

The best part of the night...candy sorting!!

Perfect Pickin's!

2009-10-22T20:23:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favorite time of the year, crisp weather, fall colors, and forced posed pictures! :)

Dawson has had this thing that he looks away right before you snap the picture. (See picture 1)

Luckily I caught these cute ones of him!

We also did the Cobb's Corn Maze, on what I think was the coldest and windiest night of the year.

Of course the boys went through twice.

But of course $5.00 cups of hot chocolate make it all so much better.

(with their friend Christian)

It's Soccer time....

2009-10-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

Soccer is crazy, time consuming, exhausting, and we love every minute of it here at the Briner household! This year Eric coached Ethan's U-8 Freedom Lightening team.

They had a great season! They even got moved up a division, and still won! Their team was also asked to play at Grizzly stadium for a soccer tournament. It was great to watch the boys play there, they even got shirts and cleats...but got beat....badly! :) Luckily the free pizza helped a little!

Colton and Zac played on the same team this year. Freedom Scorpions U-12. They had a good year. Not as many wins as losses, but they really came together as a team at the end of the season. Colton also was awarded Defensive Player of the Year from his coach!

Ethan...my Mutton Bustin' Boy!

2009-09-26T16:17:00.000-07:00

This year at the Big Fresno Fair, they offered Mutton Bustin'.

For those of you who have never heard of this sport, you have your child 6 or younger put on a helmet, then stick the poor child on the back of a sheep, and yell hold on as the sheep bolts out of the gate!

(No, this isn't a form of punishment or child cruelty)

Well, since Ethan was the only one who fit the requirement, we all thought it would be a great idea that he be the "chosen one" to ride. After some prodding from his brothers, (and dad) we signed him up.

(At this point...he has no idea what he's in for...just liking the attention)

Here come the big, bad sheep...

(Getting more of an idea of what's about to happen)

Ride'em Cowboy!!

2nd place winner! (And still not really sure what just happened.)

(Just realized what just happened)

Mutton Bustin' Stud!

We Remember!

2009-09-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

On September 11th, the kids and I attended a memorial service at Pelco. Pelco did an amazing job with the parade, and everything that they did that day. The most touching part was when they played the 9-1-1 calls. The boys really seemed to get a lot out of it too.

Later that day, we decided to do a Lemonade stand.

We raised almost $100, and donated it to the Twin Towers Orphan Fund.

We Remember & God Bless America!

It's Potty Time!

2009-08-26T16:08:00.000-07:00

Well...it's finally that time!! After over 10 years of buying diapers...I can see the end!! :) No more mad dashes to the store...no more searching diaper bags or the car for a spare diaper...we are on our way to being diaper free! Here is Big D with his big boy pants, and soccer potty that cheers when you "flush"!

So far Dawson has done good! (Maybe shouldn't have started on such a busy week. )

How quick they learn...

Football = Fracture

2009-08-10T14:10:00.000-07:00

Well, this year Colton decided that he would go out for Clovis Cowboys Football. He had never played football, only soccer, but he was up for the challenge. It was very tough practices. 5 days a week, in full Fresno July heat, 2 hours a day.

He had made the first cuts, and the final cuts were the following week. Unfortunately, while at practice, (and while mom was out of town) he fractured his arm. Dad thought it was fine, and sent him to practice the next Monday, but Tuesday afternoon, after I watched him at practice, he was at the doctor's office getting x-rays.

Sure enough, the rest of his summer, he would spend in a cast. So, that was the end of football, however the same night Colton found out his arm was broken, he was trying out for soccer. You can't keep that boy down!

Finally off!

Camera-less

2009-08-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

What's the saying..."Don't know what you've got till it's gone?" My good ole, back pocket, throw anywhere, great picture taking camera, finally had had enough. I have been without a camera for a few months...(hence the non-posts) but now....back with a vengence! :)

I got a Panasonic Lumix ZS1. A little bigger than my old pocket camera...but can't wait to start snappin! (and postin!)

Fun with Bob!

2009-07-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to be invited to a friends birthday at the Met, and visit the Bob the Builder exhibit! The boys had so much fun!!

Can we fix it...Yes, we can!

My little workers!

Our Trip to Disneyland

2009-06-03T18:18:00.000-07:00

Disneyland really is the "happiest place on earth"! We visited Disneyland for 5 days, and loved every minute of them! Here is a peek at our fun!

Favorite Rides :
Colton - Big Thunder Mountain, Screamin'
Zac - Space Mountain, Screamin
Ethan - Big Thunder Mountain, Toy Story
Dawson - Buzz Lightyear, Bugs Life

Favorite Memories :
*Brunch at Goofy's Kitchen
*Daddy and Dawson riding Buzz 10 times in a row!
*Getting together with our friends the Weston's
*Earthquake in LA while we were there
*Ethan riding Tower of Terror
*Boys forcing me to ride Screamin'
*Closing down Disneyland 5 nights in a row
*Ethan and his new, (ahem) friend Loni Weston
*3 boys sleeping in one pull-out couch (not that we didn't have enough beds!)
*2 Firedrills at the hotel

Gearing up for Disneyland...Disney Family Night

2009-06-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

We're going to Disneyland!

About a week before our Disneyland trip, I thought it might be fun to have a family night Disney planning night! I printed out coloring sheets for the "littles", and then made Mickey packing sheets for the older boys.

For dinner, we had Mickey chicken nuggets (thanks Jacinda!).
And of course Mickey cupcakes for dessert!

YUM!!!

The Plunge

2009-05-20T20:48:00.001-07:00

Dawson started his swimming lessons at Jamie's School of Fish. We love Jamie, and the boys have taken lessons there for years.

Teacher Andrea is GREAT with Dawson!!
Dawson tried to lay on the tears, and the charm...but she stands her ground!
By lesson 2, he cried half way...and then decided...she's not giving in,
so I'd better just do what she says.
He's holding his breath, monkey walking, and kicking with less than an hours lesson!

Good Job Fishy!!

Party in the Jungle!

2009-05-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

We had Ethan's Birthday at Jax Junglehouse this year! It was super fun! (And totally easy for me!) The highlight for me was watching Ethan open his gifts...and after opening them...saying..."AWESOME!!!" Needless to say he loved them all! Thanks to all who made his day so special!!

The Cake...

2009-05-20T18:57:00.001-07:00

Ethan's cake was the hit of the party! Had to blog about the cake itself! Stacy Mueller...Whimsy Cakes...(www.whimsycakes.blogspot.com) are amazing! This is the 3rd cake I have had her do for me...and she always seems to out do herself!

The detail to sooooo cool! We almost hated to eat it!

Yes...the leopard it fondant, as well as the letters!

Perfect Jungle Cake...with Popsicle flavor cake!!

Happy Birthday Ethan!!!

2009-05-20T18:01:00.001-07:00

So hard to believe, our little man Ethan is six! Ethan entered the world on May 3rd at 4:44 a.m. He was 9 lbs. 8 oz, and 22 1/4" long. We just love this boy...and so does everyone who meets him! He is a joy to be around, and will always keep you laughing...we never know what will come out of that boy's mouth!! Ethan means "firm", and he has held true to his name. We love you!!

A New Niece To Love

2009-05-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

Lauren "Elyse" Carey

Born to Cliff and April Carey

Big Brother Peter

March 27, 2009

7 lbs. 13 oz. 20 1/4"

We celebrated Elyse with a shower for her and her mommy on April 26th.

She is such a sweet...and tiny little thing!!

Welcome to the family Elyse!!

Batter Up!

2009-05-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

Ethan just finished his second year of t-ball. I always love t-ball! No practice, just one night a week, and the kids always have a ball! ;) There is nothing like seeing 8 little kids all run towards one little ball.

Ethan was on Clovis Christian Schools Navy team again this year, and did very well!

His favorite part about t-ball...sliding into home. Pretty impressive!

Monster Jam - Boys Night Out

2009-05-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

The boys have always wanted to see the Monster Trucks, so we decided to take them with some of their friends. We went out to Red Robin, and then headed to the fairgrounds for some loud fun! The boys invited the Hall boys, Christian and Cayden, and Christian F., and Ethan's friend Shaun from next door.

Luckily it was general admission, and we got front row seats. The boys had a great time watching the trucks, waving their checkered flags, eating tons of candy, and dancing!

Zoo Day with the Littles!

2009-05-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to do some special things for just the "littles". They are so good about going to all of the older boys events, and with the busyness of their schedules, I sometimes forget to do the little kid things for them. :)

We had a fun day, just the 3 of us. I had NEVER gone to the bird show. It was great! The boys enjoyed it too!

Easter 2009

2009-05-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

In the Briner family, every family gets to host a holiday. Mine is Easter. This Easter was great! We had all 19 of us! All of the family joined us at RVC for church. It was great to have them all there. Everyone then joined us at our house for dinner and the annual egg hunt. This year it was fun to see all of the boys hunt, and even more fun that we had 2 baby girls this time! We always try for a group kids photo...as you can tell...it's becoming more challenging. ;)

Hunting for Easter Baskets

2009-05-04T08:28:00.000-07:00

Every year since the older boys were little, we have come up with a fun way for them to find their Easter Baskets. This year, for Ethan and Dawson, the Easter bunny tied string on their beds, and they had to follow the string all over the house to find their baskets. For Colton and Zac, the bunny was a little more tricky. They had to follow riddles that the Easter bunny left to find theirs! Such a fun time!

Goodness, Gracious, Cake Balls of Fire!

2009-04-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

For Easter, I saw this really cute idea on http://bakerella.blogspot.com. It looked a little intimidating, but I thought I would try it!

It's pretty simple, bake a 9 x 13 cake, let cool completely, then crumble in a bowl. Add a little less than a can of frosting, and muck together. Form into balls, and then dip a sucker stick into melted chocolate, and cool. After firm, dip into melted chocolate. There are a lot of different varieties on how to decorate. Very fun project,...but a little time consuming. I doubled the recipe, and it was too much! You get more than enough from one cake.

I never realized how many different sprinkles there could be! By using the melted chocolate for glue, you just "glue" on different sprinkles. Super cute!

Easter Sunday

2009-04-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

We will be going to the 10:45 service! We'd love to have you join us!

Spring Fling Ideas

2009-03-30T12:45:00.001-07:00

And they're off...

2009-03-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

Colton and Zac have started running track for Fresno Christian this season. It is their first experience with track, and for the most part, seem to be enjoying it. Friday was their first track meet, and then another one following it on Saturday!

Zac competed in Shot Put, 200 meters, and Turbo Jav

Colton competed in the 4 x 100, Shot Put, and Discus

The boys also got to compete against each other on Saturday in the 200. They ended up tying!

Ethan & Dawson were troopers. Saturday they sat in the sun for 6 hours in metal stands! I think they were the best sports! :)

American Idol Underdog?

2009-03-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

This week...on American Idol...really changed my opinions of some of the contestants. True, not all of them are "country" singers, and struggled, but some "made it their own", and really stood out! Matt Giraud was one of them! I was really impressed with him, and love his voice! I hope he does well!

Here are my 2 cents - for what it's worth on the performances this week....

Adam - HORRIBLE!!!! A little scary, and disappointing.

Alexis - She seems to be singing the same type of songs...getting a little boring

Allison - Surprised she was in the bottom 3, but I thought she did ok

Anoop - Not a fan, but did an awesome job this week!

Danny - "He could sing the phonebook"...loved it, as always!

Kris - I think he's sort of an underdog too! I think he's good...but lacks confidence...a little like a puppy dog...cute though! ;)

Lil - This week....so disappointing...I know it wasn't her "type" of song, but I didn't think it even sounded good...and nobody can sing like Martina!

Matt - Great!

Megan - Cool sounding voice...not sure about her little dance she always does...looks a little like the chicken dance.

Michael - I really thought he would do a good job this week, but was unimpressed...I think he'll be gone next week.

Scott - I think he's good, his piano on the group performance...was very impressive!

What did you think?

St. Paddy's Day at the Briners!

2009-03-19T08:28:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Ok, so I am always up for an excuse for a fun day, and since I am 50% Irish, I decided to embrace my inner Irish lassie. :)

Breakfast was yummy, green pancakes

(nothing like a little artificial coloring to start the day off!)

For lunch, Colton made 4 leaf clover PB & J's

St. Paddy's Dinner ...at the "special" table. :)

Irish Stew & Irish Soda Bread - yum!

(Thanks Michelene for the recipe!)

Rainbow Fruit Salad
(Thanks Jacinda for the great idea!)

And Rainbow cake for dessert!

(The cake didn't come out as cute as Jacinda's, I think I tried to rush cook it, and didn't wait for it to cool...so it's not as pretty as I planned...but all in all, the boys loved it....so that's all that mattered! :) )

Notes on Mom by the 3 Briner Boys

2009-03-16T11:35:00.000-07:00

I just did this fun little, "How well do you know your mom" questionaire on Facebook. Colton, Zac, and Ethan filled it out...it was funny to see how they answered.

1. What is something mom always says to you?
C- "Play hard" (before games)
Z- "Do school"
E- "Clean up your room"
(All are true)

2. What makes mom happy?
C- "a clean car"
Z- "Roses"
E- "Hugs and kisses"
(All are true)

3. What makes mom sad?
C- "Not getting a present on Valentines Day"
Z- "Not being good"
E- "When I'm not good"

4. How does your mom make you laugh?
C- "Being sarcastic"
Z- "Telling jokes"
E- "a cheesy face"

5. What was your mom like as a child?
C- "a tomboy"
Z- "wanted to be a monster truck driver" (true)
E- "like a boy" (that would be a tomboy)
(unfortunately, all are true!)

6. How old is your mom?
C- "35" - he's grounded...I'm 34!
Z- "34"
E- "34"

7. How tall is your mom?
C- "5' 4" "
Z- "5' 4" "
E- "how do you ask a 5 year old this?"
(5 foot, 4 and 3/4")

8. What is her favorite thing to do?
C- "go shopping for free"
Z- "go on vacation with us"
E- "workout"
(not sure if I would've put workout on the list...:) )

9. What does your mom do when you're not around?
C- "clean the house"
Z- "parties"
E- "clean up around the house"
(sad but true)

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
C- "drums"
Z- "drums"
E- "singing"
(who knew? really not a good singer, and only good at drums on rockband!)

11. What is your mom really good at?
C- "cheering people up"
Z- "cleaning"
E- "rockband drums"

12. What is your mom not very good at?
C- "I'm trying to think of one that I don't get grounded on...not going the speed limit"
Z- "playing playstation"
E- "spelling tyranasaurus rex"
(Colton got it right on!)

13. What does your mom do for a job?
C- "Southern Living at HOME"
Z- "Southern Living"
E- "Sovern Living at HOME, and sell stuff"

14.What is your mom's favorite food?
C- "Lobster"
Z- "Chinese"
E- "salad"
(like all of the above, but chicken enchiladas are my fav)

15.What makes you proud of your mom?
C- "She cheers me on at soccer"
Z- "Buying us a wii"
E- "she does my laundry"

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
C- "Pochahonas"
Z- "Lilo"
E- "the mom on Johnny Test, but you look younger than her"
(Zac is grounded for the Lilo comment!)

17. What do you and your mom do together?
C- "play rockband"
Z- "school"
E- "play cars with me"

18. How are you and your mom the same?
C- "we look alike...black eyes"
Z- "we are both Briner's"
E- "we're in the same family"

19. How are you and your mom different?
C- "you where high heels, I wear tennis shoes"
Z- "your a girl, and I'm a boy"
E- "your a girl, and I'm a boy"

20. How do you know your mom loves you?
C- "you support me when I am down"
Z- "You gave me life"
E-"cuz I'm your son"

21. What does your mom like most about your dad?
C- "he takes long naps, so you can clean the house"
Z- "humor"
E- "he kisses you a lot"
(all true...and he's my hottie!)

22. Where is your mom's favorite place to go?
C- "Hawaii"
Z- "Cancun"
E- "Target"
(true!)

American Idol...who's your pick?

2009-03-05T21:15:00.000-08:00

Well, it's that time of year again...Idol Season 8! I think there are quite a few good ones...and a lot that shouldn't have gotten this far. Here are the Briner fav's for Season 8!

Johnna - Lil Rounds or Danny Gokey

Eric, Colton, & Zac - Adam Lambert or Megan Corkey

Ethan - Jasmine Murray or Scott MacIntyre

I also think Alexis Grace and Allison Iraheta are great too! Who's your pick?????

LOVE at River Valley Church

2009-02-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

We are "loving" our new study at RVC! We have been studying the Song of Solomon. Now honestly, I always thought it was a little mushy, but have gotten so much out of this study! We would love for any of you to join us! You can also listen online at www.rvcfresno.com.

15 years!!

2009-02-11T17:13:00.000-08:00

February 5th was our 15 year anniversary!! It is hard to believe that time could go so fast, but even harder to remember life without Eric! Although the trends have changed, (Jessica McClintock floral bridesmaid dresses, and a strong 'mauve' wedding color scheme) we don't look exactly like we did 15 years ago, and life was a whole lot simpler...I wouldn't change one thing. I am amazed that I truly am more in love today, than I was on that February afternoon.

Here are 15 reasons that I love my hubby!

1. He's my best friend

2. He is an awesome, Godly leader of our house

3. He has given me the most perfect 4 boys

4. He is a wonderful father

5. He doesn't judge

6. He's wise with money...even when I'm not

7. He is a hard worker

8. He "gets" me!

9. He is a visionary

10. He is a hottie

11. He knows how to have a good time

12. He is positive

13. He is strong

14. He never complains about things not done

15. He loves me. :)

Thank you Eric for the best 15 years of my life...I can't wait for many more!

(Here is a questionaire I just filled out on Facebook too....)

1. When was your "engagement" anniversary: ***December 5, 1992***

2. When is your "marriage" anniversary: ***February 5, 1994***

3. How long have you known your spouse: ***Since July 6, 1990***

4. How long did you date/court before you were engaged: ***2 years, 5 mos.***

5. Where did you meet your spouse for the first time: ***While on a date with an ex-boyfriend***

6. What is your spouses full name: ***Eric E Briner***

7. Do you have any children yet: ***yes***

8. How many: ***four handsome boys***

9. Do you have any house pets:***Yes! Black lab...outside!***

10.Do you own a house or rent: ***own***

11.Do you live in the country or town/city: ***City***

12.What is one of you favorite activities together: ***Right now...playing Rock Band 2!***

13.Do you have a favorite vacation spot:***Avila Beach***

14.How many siblings: ***I have 1 sis, and he has 2!***

15.What church do you attend: ***River Valley Church, Fresno...love it! Come visit!***

16.Is it the church you were married in: ***No, we meet at Clovis North high school***

17.What town is your current address: ***Clovis, CA***

18.Do you work or stay at home: ***Both!***

19.Where did you honeymoon: ***Carmel, CA***

A New Favorite

2009-02-05T08:03:00.000-08:00

Eric and I got a chance to go out for our anniversary last night, and we wanted to try a new (to us) place. I have seen the Daily Grill at Palm and Nees, but didn't know exactly what it was. Coffee shop, casual, healthy? While driving around trying to pick a place, I googled it on my phone and it sounded good, and right up the alley of what we were looking for.

We were very pleasantly surprised! It was very quaint, but chic too! The food was amazing! A little pricey, but not bad at all. Eric had lamb shanks, and I had a blackberry pork chop. I just kept telling Eric, I can't believe how hot (temperature) everything was! They also had a peach and strawberry cobbler with ice cream for dessert! YUM! Ok, seriously, I'm going to jump on the treadmill right after I submit this!!!

Wii are having so much fun!

2009-01-29T09:28:00.000-08:00

Ok, so we are probably one of the last people on earth to get a Wii....but after long deliberation, and lots of fun on the Fitzgerald's...we got our own. This really has to be the greatest invention. Our whole family has had soooo much fun! We also got Rock Band 2. Zac rocks it out singing, Colton plays a mean guitar, alongside Daddy, and Mom beats out the drums, (watch out, I may be going out for the worship team next! JK) and Ethan subs in for mom on drums too! We have had such a blast...but it's amazing how fast time flies! One minute it's 7 p.m., and the next it's midnight! On Rock Band, our band....Mama's Boyz....are on tour, we are playing lots of gigs all over the world...who knew? :)

We just got Wii Fit last night...so can't wait!

Are you hooked on Wii too?

iPod touch....

2009-01-19T12:21:00.000-08:00

I've been seeing commercials for the new iPod touch. Looks pretty cool! Eric wants my old Nano, and I wanted one that could play movies when I fly...this one looks like it'll do the trick. Have you heard anything about them?

I'm Hungy...

2009-01-14T23:51:00.000-08:00

Oh, the stories of having a 2 year old....

The day after I got home from San Diego, I was upstairs, and Dawson came up to tell me he was "hungy". He had already had breakfast, and a snack, so I dismissed his request, and went along sorting laundry. He disappeared, and I figured he went to play. About 10 minutes later, he appeared with chocolate on his face. After a quick sniff...confirming it was chocolate, I asked him to show me what he ate....he took my hand, and took me downstairs to show me...this is what I found:

Dawson had got into the drawer and got the scissors out...got the unopened box of Pop Tarts, (normally, we do not have PopTarts in the house, but Eric and the boys saw them on sale while shopping for stocking stuffers for me, and stuck them in my stocking) opened the box, took the pop tart package out, and cut it open! He was so proud of himself...all I could do is laugh! Who knows, maybe I have a future surgeon on my hands! ;)

Trip number 10!

2009-01-14T23:35:00.000-08:00

Can I just tell you that I do love my job?

For this years Southern Living at HOME Directors Retreat,

we got to go to the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego. San Diego is probably my favorite place in CA, and I have always wanted to stay there! How awesome that I got to go for FREE!

We were so spoiled, from the black Towncar with my name in the window that picked me up from the airport...to the lobster tails, spa package, and $150 cash we got...to just name a few!

There is nothing like a totally free trip!

So much fun having girl time with my Colorado girlfriends, Tammy and Rhonda!!

Next stop....Trip number 11...Cancun, MX!!

Snow much fun at Shaver!

2009-01-14T23:04:00.000-08:00

Zac's Happy 2009 Lego artwork!

To ring in the new year, the Karlson's invited us up to the cabin in Shaver. We had a great time with the Briner's, Carey's, and Karlsons....and kids! The boys had the most fun playing in the snow! I'm really more of a beach girl....and other than falling 5 minutes after I got there, and having Colton slide in front of a moving car....it was fun! ;)

Peter & Dawson

The boys all got new sleds from Auntie April and Uncle Cliff, and they were so excited to break them in! Ethan followed the boys...and slid down any hill they did!

Dawson however, liked hanging out in the warm car. :) (I think he's a beach bum like mom)

The boys also rebuilt a snowman that Auntie Sara had done the week before....although, after they were done with it....it didn't look quite like the "Martha Stewart" one she had...Sorry Sara...leave it to my boys to give the snowman a mohawk!!

Happy New Year Everybody!!!

Merry Christmas!

2009-01-14T22:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas was a lot of fun this year! All of the boys were into it this year. I wish I could capture those twinkles, sparkles, and excitement of a child. It truely is a gift!

This year, Eric made a point that I hadn't taken Ethan since he was a baby, and Dawson...well ever...to go see Santa. So, while he had the older boys, I hit the mall 2 days before Christmas. The boys were great, even though it was an hour long wait!

They were really excited...until we got up to Santa.

(At least they weren't crying! :) )

Christmas Eve...everybody got to open jammies...even Mom & Dad!

Christmas Morning

Santa Brought....

Colton - Bow & Arrow with Camo Attire

Zac - Lego Indiana Jones set

Ethan - Geo Trax Airplane set

Dawson - Radio Flier My 1st Scooter & Helmet

Christmas at Grama and Grampa Briner's

Big Wheels for the little boys!

As much fun as the holidays are....I'm glad they're only once a year!!! ;)

Zac Hits Double Digits!

2009-01-14T22:09:00.000-08:00

Yes, another Briner birthday! (Eric and 3 boys have their birthdays in November or December!) This time it's Zac's! Zachary Eldon Briner was born December 17, 1998 at 8:28 a.m. Weighing in at 9 lbs. 2 oz. and 20 3/4" long.

Just home from the hospital with big brother Colton (13 months old)

1 year with Mommy

Always looking cool!

Losing his first, and second tooth!

(He lost his first before Colton!)

10 years

Zac...aka...Zack, Zachary, Zack Man, Z Man, Zack Attack.

I am so thankful for Zac, and what a great boy he is. He is always the life of the party, and has no fear! He is so creative, and loves his Legos! He has an impecable memory, and is a great brother, friend, and son! Love you Zac!!!

I'm Baaaackkkkk.....

2009-01-14T22:07:00.000-08:00

Ok, I didn't fall off the end of the earth...I'm back and blogging with a vengance...well not really, but going to catch up! I have a triple latte in hand, and pictures in que....here it goes! ;)

Yummy!!!

2008-12-21T22:10:00.001-08:00

Every year I look forward to baking for the holidays! My favorite recipe is Rocky Road!! It's super easy, and super yummy!!! Here's how:

Johnna's Rocky Road

Ingredients:

*1/2 stick of butter

*1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk

*12 oz. chocolate chips

*1 jar of dry roasted peanuts

*1 bag of mini marshmallows

Melt butter on low until fully melted. Add in condensed milk, and then the chocolate chips until melted. Turn off heat, and add peanuts. Mix thoroughly. Then add marshmallows, and mix again. Spread in a buttered 9 x 13 pan, and chill. Cut into small squares, and serve!

Merry Christmas!!

Happy Birthday, Christmas, Anniversary Babe!

2008-12-20T10:06:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, I started thinking about what to do for Eric. Not only were Christmas and his birthday coming up, but also our 15 year wedding anniversary. I wanted to do something special for him this year. He has been so supportive this year. So, I had qualified for an extra bonus with SLAH, so, I decided to save my money as surprise him. At first, I was just going to drive us to the airport, and not tell him, but a couple of weeks before, I chickened out, and told him. :) He was so excited!

I had got a Cowboys package, that got us to stay at the Gaylord Texan, an autograph session, go to a pre-game party at the corral, game tickets, and then back the next day to tour the stadium, and locker room! We had such a great time! It also helped that we beat the pants off the Giants!!! How 'bout them Cowboys!!!

How 'bout them COWBOYS!

2008-12-20T10:05:00.001-08:00

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree...how lovely are your branches

2008-12-20T09:05:00.000-08:00

Every year I envision a beautifully decorated tree, full of ribbons and bows, matching ornaments...but, that is not the tree of the Briners. :) The boys are always so excited to decorate the tree! They love going through the ornaments, and remembering them. This year Ethan loved being able to hang them on his own.

This year Eric did also get me a small flocked tree, that I decorated in blue and silver. It was really fun "foofing" it up...but there is nothing like our family tree!

Johnna Briner...Slackerblogger

2008-12-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

There is nothing worse than checking your friends blogs....and it's a old post! Yes, I've become one of those friends! Not that you are all dying to read what happens in the Briner house...but it's like therapy for me! We are heading to Dallas this weekend...(gift for hubby...Dallas game...a whole 'nother blog) and I will be updating next week. :) Don't take me off your blogging friends list yet!!! ;)

Oh Christmas Cards, Oh Christmas Cards...

2008-11-26T18:21:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about all of the great pictures of the boys! A friend of mine, Candice Wagenlietner, is doing pictures to raise money for their upcoming adoption of a little girl from Korea! She is great! (As you can tell!) Her phone number is 325-1583.

BLACK FRIDAY...Are you ready to SHOP???

2008-11-26T07:47:00.001-08:00

The day is coming....The Biggest shopping day of the YEAR!!! I know, you think I'm CrAzY!!! Yes, I am a shopper of Black Friday. It's a tradition! Every year, I shop with my sister-in-laws, and anyone else who is willing to be up at the crack of dawn...Starbucks in hand...and list in tow! I have done this 1 day overdue...8 mos. pregnant...and just had given birth 2 weeks prior...Now granted...I don't look like the picture above...but it is so much fun! Now, don't get me wrong...I am rarely at Walmart at 2 am, but I have found some great deals. My favorite place to go is Macys!!! 50% off their clearance! One year Sara, my SIL, found a pair of Ralph Lauren shorts for $2.14!! Crazy 8, and Old Navy are also good...not so crazy...spots. We usually hit Michaels too...can never have enough ribbon!

Shoppers have gotten smarter these days! In the past, you had to wait to hear the thump of that 50 lb. newspaper to hit your driveway Thanksgiving morning to see the great deals! Now, there are websites cluing you in on what's going to be on sale! Here are a few that I have found...

www.blackfriday.info
www.bfads.net
www.black-friday.net

Now, I personally, will wait for the "thump" tomorrow morning to start my plan of attack! Here are some great tips that I found online...that I thought I would share with you first-timers or rookies!! Happy Shopping....see you at Macys!!!

Shopping Tips:

• Know exactly the time that the stores you want to hit are open, and go to the store that has the best deals, and/or the gift you want to get the most first. Be there at least a half-hour before it opens if the gift is popular.

• Leave the kids at home; this is not a day to worry about hand-holding and good behavior.• Be caffeinated and full – don’t shop on low energy and an empty stomach.

• Pack snacks so that you don’t have to stop your marathon shopping day to grab some grub from the food court.

• Bring along a MP3 player or portable CD player to help pass the time when you are waiting to pay for your finds.

• Don’t worry about purchasing little gifts today, such as stocking stuffers, but rather focus on gifts that are bigger, harder to find, and more expensive.

• Consider this a good day to look for that new winter coat or little black dress you need. Clothing sales are usually very good on Black Friday, because so many people are already in the stores looking for toys and gifts.

• If a product is not available, but the store offers a rain check, take it. Make sure that when you cash in your rain check you are getting the price that the product was listed at for that day.

A Few Days After Black Friday Sales:

• Cyber Monday, the Monday immediately following Black Friday, is a busy day for online retailers who offer special deals, products, and discounts. FYI, the term was coined by Shop.org in 2005.

• If you didn’t get all of the products off of your list while shopping at those after-Thanksgiving sales, log on first thing Monday morning and see what you can find.

• Visit retailmenot.com for online coupons, including offers for free shipping and 15% off discounts from certain retailers.

• Know the online retailers return policy, shipping information, and payment procedure so that you are not worrying about any of those details before you purchase the item.

• Do a little research among retailers, and don’t just settle for the first good price that you see on that must-have product.

• Calculate shipping and other online fees before determining whether you are getting a fair deal.

Happy 2nd Birthday Dawson!

2008-11-24T18:20:00.001-08:00

My baby turns 2!

2008-11-24T17:39:00.000-08:00

Well, technically, not until Friday, but today (Thanksgiving 2006) was actually his due date two years ago. On November 28th, 2006, Dawson Tate entered our world! He weighed 9 lbs. 7 oz., and was 21 1/2 inches long. He has been such a blessing, and is full of joy! He brings smiles to everyone, and knows no stranger. He already has picked up his brother, Ethan's wit, and will always have mommy's heart! He still lets me hold him like a baby, and says, "Mommy's baby". (Even though most of the time, he calls me "Babe"!) He loves cars, especially, "Mommy's cool car, Daddy's cool car, and Grama's cool car" as he calls them...and every other white truck and SUV! Even though he is now officially a toddler...he will always be my baby!

"Magical" Birthday!

2008-11-21T22:35:00.001-08:00

This year, for Colton and Zac's birthday (they are only 13 mos. apart), we gave them a choice of having a party, or going to Magic Mountain, and inviting a friend. They chose Magic Mountain!!! It was a blast! Eric and I love roller coasters, but hadn't been since my 25th birthday. (A few years ago :) ) We weren't quite sure how they would do, but thought we would go for it! They boys invited their friend Christian, and his parents joined us. We drove to Valencia for the day, and we had a blast! Colton and Zac had no fear! I was a little worried on the first ride...Goliath...I thought Zac was going to have a heart attack by the look on his face. But, when we pulled back to the gate, he yelled...AWESOME!! I think their favorite ride was the log rides. They got soaked...but went back for more! Happy Birthday Colton and Zac!!!

Oh My Heaven...Colton is Turning Eleven!!!

2008-11-07T23:25:00.000-08:00

It just seems like yesterday, we were bringing home our 1st baby boy. Colton Bailey Briner was born November 9th, 1997. Weighing in at 9 lbs. 5 oz. and had "muscles" at one day old! It's hard to believe that eleven years have flown by!

3 weeks old

6 months old4 years old11 years old
I thank God for giving us such a blessing. Colton is a true first born, natural leader, determined and driven, although, he is very caring and nurturing, always helping with his younger brothers, and anyone who needs a helping hand.

Happy 11th Birthday Colton!!

We love you!

God's Love is Everything

2008-11-06T05:40:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday, we set the clocks back, and since I had the extra hour, I decided to go for a walk. (with a few jogs :) ) The week before at Peoples Church MOMS group, my dear friend Michelene, shared with her not only her amazing story, but also a worship CD she uses when she runs. I will have to be honest, normally my iPod is full of hip hop music when it comes to exercising, but I downloaded it, and thought I would try it out.

I can honestly say, that walk was the most AWESOME walk I have ever taken. It had been raining the past few days. The clouds were still rolling, and there was a constant sprinkle. Just as I turned the corner, I saw a break in the clouds, and a beautiful rainbow appeared. At the same time, the song, "Your Love is Everything", by Chris Quilala started on my iPod. I can't explain how God moved me during this song! There is nothing like staring at God's beauty in a rainbow, and hearing this song and his promises. Awesome!

Here are the words to the song. And a great reminder...no matter what you go through!

Your Love is Everything

by Chris Quilala

When I'm dry and thirsty Lord,

and I'm crying out for more

I know I can trust in your love

In the darkness in the night

When I'm starving for the light

I know I can trust in your love

You keep no record of my sin

You don't remember all my shame

Your love heals every disease

Your love fulfills my every need

Your love is everything to me

Your love is everything

I will not forget

I won't forget your promises

I will not forget

I won't forget your love

I will not forget

Nothing is impossible

I will not forget!

Halloween Fun

2008-11-01T18:40:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-27T15:48:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, we headed up the hill, to Aunt Cheri's house for some fun pumpkin carving and S'mores around the fire! The boys had a great time creating their own faces, and scraping most of the goop out!

Great Aunt Ardie, Me, Aunt Cheri, and Grandma Audrey. I honestly think that we haven't ever taken a picture together....at least for 20+ years! I'm so glad I got it!!!

The Notebook

2008-10-22T22:44:00.001-07:00

Have you ever had one of those "feelings", right before you do something stupid? Well, let me tell you what happened tonight. It was about 10:00 p.m., and I had got the kids and hubby to bed, and wanted to switch the laundry over before bed. (Now I should preface, that our laundry room is our "drop zone". It's the first room you walk into from the garage, and always has random things that need to be put away on the dryer.) After switching the laundry over, I thought I should probably clean out the lint cleaner, which is on top of the piled-high-with-junk dryer. As I was doing this, I though, "Hmmm, I should probably move something before I do this." Before I could reconsider, I slid the lint catcher out, and down slid a pocket notebook.

Realizing, that paper in a dryer was probably not the best thing to leave, I tried to pull the dryer out, and disconnect the dryer vent tube, and stick my hand up the hole. (Probably not the smartest of ideas either!) I couldn't reach it, so I had to disassemble the whole back part of the dryer! Luckily, I have my own tools, and went to work. Within about 15 minutes, I had the notebook, and everything put back together! I'm sure that Sears would've charged me at least $50 for that! Just call me...Mrs. Fix-It! ;)

The funniest part of it all was I couldn't wait to blog about my stupidity!

(Good as new!)

Cute Idea

2008-10-15T23:03:00.000-07:00

I just found this cute way to decorate pumpkins! What a great way to recycle old magazines!

Your youngest holiday revelers will love these kooky characters that are more silly than scary.

CRAFT MATERIALS:Pumpkin (any size)Old magazines or catalogs, Glue dots
Time needed: Under 1 Hour
1. Cut a mismatched pair of eyes and ears, a nose, mouth, hair, and any accessories from magazine or catalog pages.
2. Adhere the features to the pumpkin using glue dots. For ears that stick out (such as those shown here), cut an extra tab that you can fold back, then use glue dots to secure the tab in place. Display your pals in a covered area to protect them from the elements.

And so it begins....

2008-09-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

Our crazy Fall soccer season has kicked off in full force! This year we have 3 of the 4 boys playing! Colton is playing U12 Freedom Galaxy, Zac is playing U10 Freedom Wildfire, and Ethan is playing U6 Freedom Inferno!

Even though we are on the soccer field Monday thru Thursday nights, and 3 games on Saturdays...we are excited for this season! Eric is coaching Ethan's team too!

Last weekend, Colton and Zac had their seeding tournaments. Colton had 2 tough losses, although if you ask me, he was their star player for both games! Zac played 4 games, and had 2 wins, and 2 ties. They ended up placing 3rd in the tournament!! The season officially begins on October 3rd...so if you have a free Saturday from now thru November...stop on by the field!! They boys would love to have you!

GO BRINER BOYS!!!!!

One Sweet Guy!

2008-09-12T23:02:00.000-07:00

Well, as you can see by my lack of blogging, I have been swamped, and not to mention sick. :( I have had this annoying cough for almost 2 weeks now, but have had to keep going. The boys started school, and since we homeschool...this teacher couldn't call in for a sub! I also ran a booth at the Women's Conference, and also had 3 parties, oh ya, and soccer practice 4 nights a week! Needless to say I'm a little pooped!

What does this have to do with Eric? Well, I just have to brag on him...while trying to get to the Women's Conference this week at 6:30 a.m., I was frantically trying to leave early because I had to go to the bank. Of course I was running late, but went to grab my purse, and Eric had left cash and my keys all laid out for me. :) (Not to mention he watched the boys all that day too!) This weekend he took the 3 older boys camping, but before he left, he sat me down, and turned on the TV. He told me he wanted me to relax this weekend, and he had TIVO'd me some movies. (Including my favorite...Sixteen Candles!)

Thanks Sweetie, I love you! Even after 18 years...you've still got it!

New Blog Announcement

2008-09-06T01:05:00.001-07:00

Yes, it's 1:07 a.m. Yes, I'm fighting a cold. Yes, I have 4 loads of laundry on my bed. Yes, I should be sleeping....but I'm so excited I've decided to start a NEW blog! It's called the Queen of Copy! (queenofcopy.blogspot.com) So many times I get asked where I get my ideas for decorating, centerpieces, entertaining, and honestly, most of the time, I just copy what I've seen, and try to do it for less! This blog is going to let me share my secrets! (Well, at least the decorating ones!) :) I also am hoping to get some great ideas too! Not much is up yet...but keep checking back, and let me know what you think!

A hunting they will go...

2008-09-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

September. Most people think of fall leaves & fresh autumn air...well, not my boys. The whole year they look forward to the opening of dove hunting season. This year Colton took a gun safey course with his grandpa, and loved taking the class, and spending one on one time with grandpa too. September first, they got up at 3:30 a.m. and were off. They spent the whole day with Eric, grandpa, and Uncle. They shot more clay pigeons than actual birds, but it was a great memory. Today Ethan gets to join them on their evening hunt tonight. They have their camo gear...and are ready to hunt! Hey, better them...than me! ;)

Hangin' with the Fitz's

2008-08-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

Friday night we double dated with the Fitzgeralds. After first thinking of just getting together for a BBQ...with 7 kids between us, we decided to get sitters, and go out just us! (I can't remember the last time we went out with friends...and no kids!) We went to Public House; our NEW favorite restaurant! It's at Ashlan and Cedar, and even on a Friday night there is no wait! It's a Irish Pub atmosphere...the bartender even rings a bell, and says an Irish quote! They have AMAZING Irish nachos that are to die for! Dinner you can get anything from "Bangers and Mash", to fish and chips, burgers, or Shepherds Pie!

We had a great time, but I think we realized we're getting older...at about 8:30, we were all yawning, and ready for bed! How sad is that???

Sweet Georgia Grace is HERE!!!

2008-08-27T14:44:00.000-07:00

The Briner family has waited...and after 7 boys in the family, Georgia Grace Karlson arrived this morning, weighing 7 lbs. and 10 oz. She is so beautiful! She even has brown hair like her auntie Johnna! ;) I will post more pictures soon! Let the spoiling begin!!!

Things to do....

2008-08-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

Every summer, or trip I go on, I love getting a mindless, fun book. True, these books due not inspire or educate me...but that's the point! For our trip to the Dominican, I found the book, "The Next Thing on My List", by Jill Smolinski. By reading the back, it sounded great. The storyline is about a girl that offers a ride to a girl she just met at a Weight Watchers meeting, and on the way home, they get in a car accident, and the passenger is killed. In her wallet, she had a list of things she wanted to do before her 25th birthday. The story tells how she tries to complete the list for her by her birthday. Needless to say, I finished the book almost before we landed the plane!

This book, and the "list" has been on my mind ever since. The list wasn't one of making millions, or big impossible dreams, it was more of things that were fun, little things, that we never do. A few things from her list were:

* Get a massage

*Take mom and grandma to see Wayne Newton

*Throw away my bathroom scale

*Watch a sunrise

Just having a birthday a few weeks ago, and turning 35 next year, I decided to make a list. I may add some, and I may not meet all of them...but why not try! I'm posting it to keep me accountable too!

Things to do by August 11, 2009:

1. Be within 5 lbs. of the weight on my drivers license
2. Take a train ride
3. Run a 5K
4. Give up soda
5. Donate/Raise $500 for charity
6. Be out of debt
7. Learn Spanish
8. Learn to play an instrument
9. Catch up on scrapbooking
10. Get together with friends once a month

Please, ask me how I'm doing on my list! (And don't ask me out for ice cream :) !!) Anyone want to join me??? Let me know if you have a list!

Look out Clinton Kelly....

2008-08-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, so most of you know that my favorite show on earth is TLC's What Not to Wear! I would LOVE to have Stacy and Clinton tell me what to wear, what works, and what doesn't. But after shopping this afternoon with Ethan...I don't know if I could handle it!

I decided to pop into Old Navy this afternoon with Ethan and Dawson to see if they had any great deals I couldn't live without. Dawson started helping me look through the clothes, like most one year olds do, and I heard Ethan say, "No Dawson, don't touch the cooties!" I turn and see Dawson grabbing "panties" off the rack. I asked him if he meant "panties"? And he said...well I call them "cooties". :)

I found a few things, and headed to the dressing rooms. Of course with two little boys, they had to come into the 2' x 2' stall with me, shopping cart in all. As if that wasn't uncomfortable enough, Ethan decided he would help choose the outfits I tried on. I tried on a few things, and then after not agreeing with my 5 year old, I was going to try on the shirt that I liked the best. I said, "I think I'm really going to like this one"...Ethan's response...."Not that one, it's hideous!"

I think next time...I'll get a sitter....

Happy Birthday to ME!!

2008-08-15T10:43:00.001-07:00

Sunday morning before church Eric and the boys asked if I was ready for my birthday present. My birthday wasn't until Monday, so I said "SURE!" They told me they had made reservations in Avila Beach, and we were going to the coast right after church!

We stayed at the Inn at Avila Beach, (the pink hotel, as the boys call it!) and walked the pier and then headed into San Luis for dinner. We went to Firestone Grill (same as Dog House here) and then walked downtown.

The morning of my birthday, we woke up and had breakfast in Avila, beat Eric at Ms. Pacman, and then went for a walk on the beach. We found a "beached" stingray, and the boys

had fun playing in the icy cold ocean, even though it was probably only 50 degrees outside!

We then headed to Pismo, for clam chowder at Splash Cafe, and then back to San Luis for the best pizza in the world for dinner at Woodstocks pizza!

What a GREAT present! Thanks boys!!!

The "GREAT" Outdoors

2008-08-15T10:23:00.001-07:00

Well, this year the guys talked us into camping with them. The last week in July, we all camped at Dinkey Creek. For those who know me, know I don't particularly like camping. (Especially since three days earlier I was staying in a 5 star hotel at the beach!!!) I did survive, and we did have fun, and lots of memories!! :)Camping with the family there is ALWAYS yummy food! Luckily for us girls, the guys take care of most of the cooking! The best, was baked beans the simmered over the fire all day!! YUM!

All 7 boys had a blast! We had 2 campsites, and right in the middle was two dirt hills. Eric packed enough bikes and ride-on toys for an army, so they had a blast being daredevils! Grampa even packed a hammock, where the boys kicked back with Uncle Cliff and Peter.
Dawson and Ethan bathed in the old faithful brown bucket. This has been around since Eric was a kid, and has been used with all of the grandkids!
It was fun while it lasted....then home to mountains of laundry!!!

Back from Paradise!!

2008-07-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

What a vacation! We returned yesterday from the Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. It was amazing! The secret is not yet out about Dominican Republic, so it wasn't as "touristy" as Cancun.
This was our view from the water. We spent everyday at the beach laying in the sun or under our little thatched umbrellas. The weather was perfect, sunny with even a cool breeze. The water was refreshing...not too hot...not too cool!We had a great time with our friends the Elliotts from Colorado. We went to dinner at a place called "Passion" this night. We had lobster tail, salmon, and Eric even ate escargo!!

What a vacation!!

(Thanks Southern Living at HOME for picking up the bill!!)

Adios! Leaving for home...this was the airport in Punta Cana.

Packing, packing, packing.....

2008-07-20T16:41:00.000-07:00

Well, it's only 67 hours until Eric and I fly off to the Dominican Republic!

I have earned, (not won:) ) a free trip for Eric and I to the all-inclusive Paradisus Palma Real Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

www.paradisuspalmareal.travel/

(I truly do love this about my job. This is my 9th free trip! )

Of course, when the two of us get to get away...we leave behind 4 boys! This means...packing, packing, packing. The boys are headed to grandma and grampas. It's amazing how much you have to pack! Clothes, Food, Medicines, Toys...I think we may have to rent a U-Haul to get everything over there!!

Then there is us...well...I guess you could say me...3 outfits a day...shoes to go with the outfits...just in case outfits...swimsuits...oh, and not to mention the 10 lbs of magazines, books, and sudoku that I have to bring! It'll be a miracle if I can fit it all into 2 suitcases, and not get charged extra for the weight!

(Please tell me that I am not the only one who packs like this!!)

It'll all be worth it though...when we're sitting on the beach...with a nice cold drink...and no bill at the end of the vacation! :)

Bon Voyage!!!

Celebrating Georgia!

2008-07-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

It's a GIRL!!!

After 7 boys in the family, my sister-in-law Sara, is due with a precious (soon-to-be very spoiled...and loved) baby girl!!

April and I threw her shower last night, and it was so much fun! (Did you notice our matching shirts?) We were not sure about having the shower on a Thursday night, but we had over 20 people! She was so surrounded with love...and pink! :)

The colors of the shower were pink and brown...the colors of her nursery. The favors I did with pink and white polka dot boxes, brown ribbon, and a polka dot label that said..."Sweet as a Peach...Georgia Karlson". Inside was peach flavored jelly bellys.

Yummy Cakes!!

2008-07-18T10:00:00.000-07:00

The cake that looked beautiful, and tasted amazing!!

Sara's shower cake was done by Stacie Mueller. Her cake business is called Whimsy Cakes. She has done 2 cakes for me, and I've been so happy with her!

She has a ton of flavors. The shower cake was a tropical cake, with pineapple cheesecake filling! The boys cake was chocolate and whipped peanut butter...AMAZING!!

If you are wanting a special occasion cake...she's your girl.

Whimsy Cakes by Stacie Mueller

(559) 903-3907

whimsycakes@hotmail.com

http://www.selfservebaker.com/whimsycakes

Here is a picture of Colton and Zack's cake from their Lazer Quest party.

Memories

2008-07-10T20:03:00.001-07:00

Today was a bittersweet day. 18 years ago today, Eric picked me up from work, and took me to Tice park. We climbed up the swirly slide, and he asked me to be his girlfriend. He also told me, that he was going to marry me, and 3 years later, took me to that exact spot and proposed. I still in love with my highschool sweetheart! (I was only 15!) It's hard to believe that I have spent over 1/2 my life with my best friend & love of my life!!

(Yes, that is Eric and me!)

Today, 18 years later, we buried our friend Tanya. After struggling with cancer, Tanya passed away on the 4th of July. After, what had to be one of the hardest days of my life, all I have left are memories to treasure. We will miss you, and love you Tanya Knee. Thanks for the friendship and the memories. You will be in our hearts forever. Live, Laugh, Love, TK.

Bye-Bye Curls!

2008-07-09T10:10:00.001-07:00

Well, Dawson is now 19 1/2 mos, and it was about time for his first hair cut. (Although I loved the curls!!!) We set up "shop" where I cut all the big boys hair, and got ready. He was pretty good through most of the haircut. Afterwards he kept looking at himself in the mirror. We then spiked it up like his brothers, and immediately became a "big boy"! It's so strange to see this little boy walking around instead of a baby. Bye Bye curls!! Hello big boy!

Fireworks at the Shaver

2008-07-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

We had a great time Saturday up on the Karlson's boat! I was a little scared, having 6 little boys on one boat, but everyone had a blast, and was safe! Sara decorated the boat with a patriotic flag banner (cloth of course...no plastic:) ), and we were in the boat parade. They also broke out the 3 man tube. What fun! I even tried it, Eric K tried to knock me off...maybe next time EK! :) At dark, they shot fireworks over the lake. So much fun! Thanks Karlsons!!

"Supremium" Superior Dairy Ice Cream Treat!

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

Ice Cream, Ice Cream...we all scream for Ice Cream! Eric needed to take a trip to Hanford, so what excuse to get Superior Dairy! (Or Supremium Dairy, as Zac calls it) We loaded all the kiddos, plus grandma and Aunt Pam, and headed for ice cream! I just love this place. Not only is the ice cream the best...it is a real ice cream parlor. It feels as if you've stepped back into the 60's! The boys had to get the S.O.S which has about 3 lbs. of ice cream, every sauce, whip cream, nuts, and 3 cherries! We also got a 4 scoop sundae with rocky road (the best!) cookies and cream, chocolate chip, and vanilla topped with caramel, hot fudge, whip cream and a cherry! (Can you say insulin overload?!?!) Obviously, none of us finished. I'm sure we all gained a couple of pounds...but it was fun!!

Life is precious!

2008-06-30T23:02:00.000-07:00

This is my friend Tanya. We were high school friends, worked at Aldo's Pizza together (we were the only girls!), in each others weddings, there when each others first child was born. This is my friend Tanya, now laying in a bed in St. Agnes, with few days left in her precious life.

Tanya was diagnosed with cancer around Thanksgiving, and within the past week, found that it has spread to her brain, and other areas quickly. She is fighting with everything in her being, but doctors say she has only days.

Please pray for this mom of 3, wife to Chad, and friend to many! Please pray also for her family that is with her every hour, standing by her bedside.

Tanya's motto through this all has been, LIVE, LAUGH, LOVE. Everyday we are blessed with so many things that we take for granted. This has been a huge reminder to me to remember what matters most...it's not a clean house, a position held, money earned, or an e-mail returned...those things won't matter in the end. Live each day like it's your last, and let those who you love know it without a doubt!!

Thank you Jesus for:

*Dying on the cross so we can live

*My best friend, and husband Eric

*The best 4 boys in the world

*A family that loves me unconditionally

*Loving and giving friends

*A home that meets more than my needs

*My health, and the health of my family

*Providing for all of my needs

*An amazing church

*So many other things in your beautiful creation!!

If you would like to see all of Tanya's story, you can see her website that her sister created. www.freewebs.com/livelaughlovetk

I love you all!