Turner Family

I'm Back!! WARNING...VERY LONG POST AHEAD...!

2012-01-01T21:40:00.003-07:00

Hello Blog World! I hope you will all forgive me this year long sabbatical I have taken. I'm sure all 8 of you that actually read this blog were very disappointed... :)

Because this is my blog, and I can write about whatever I want, I want to ramble for a minute about how this last year has felt, and why it feels so good to be back. You know those funny Geico commercials? Well, there is the one that starts with "Are you living under a rock?" That is where I have been for the last year...under a rock. I am ashamed to say that I let circumstances of life push me under a rock. The last 2 years have provided our family with some very difficult financial circumstances. We have gone through 2 job losses due to the bad economy, and then a took a job with a company who hired Derick, but had hidden the fact that they were on the verge of financial ruin. They stopped paying us, and we are still in a battle to get the money they owe us.

**(Side note- Forgive me if this sounds like me whining...this is therapeutic for me...and it is all part of the explanation of my journey to where I am today...I know so many others who have far more serious trials)**

As a result of these financial difficulties we have lost a vehicle, have moved into a little rental house across town, and are in the process of short selling our home to avoid foreclosure. PHEW! I SAID IT! I don't know why that has been so hard! These circumstances have taken me on such a journey. I don't know why, because there are so many people who are in our exact situation right now, but when you are going through these kinds of things you feel so alone. Satan has a way of wrapping so much shame, and embarrassment, and "you're-not-good-enough's", and "I-wonder-what-everybody-is-thinking-about-me's" ect, into my thoughts that I finally, for awhile, let him win. Despite that our situation didn't stem from us having loads of credit card debt, and buying expensive toys, or living lavishly beyond our means...even though I knew that we just hit a really big (or several small...depending on how you look at it :) ) pocket/s of bad luck, I let him get to me.

And I'm here to tell you all that I'm back. I'm not letting him win anymore. I'm not letting him take away relationships I've had for years, but have been too embarrassed to keep-in-touch with because of embarrassment. I'm not letting him cause me to hide my face at the grocery store in fear of what people in my wonderfully small town are thinking/saying.

In short, or semi-short :)... I am not letting him dictate who I am, or my self-worth anymore!! Because through all of these things, I have honestly learned that THESE THINGS DON'T MATTER!!! MONEY doesn't matter!! I have missed out on so many things because I have let myself believe that they do. And they DON'T!

The most important thing I have learned this last year, is that my faith cannot be circumstantial. And I would go through everything all over again to learn this lesson...though I hope I won't have to. :) My Heavenly Father, my kind, gentle, very very very patient Heavenly Father, ALWAYS knows what I need. The chorus to one of my very favorite songs says " I prayed for strength, and I got pain to make me strong...I prayed for courage, and I got fear to overcome...I prayed for faith, my empty heart brought me to my knees...I don't always get what I want, but I get what I need." This mimics my feelings exactly.

For those who have hung in this far...I am almost done. :)This New Year=New Beginning's for me. I hope that in some way I can pay forward all of the things I have learned this last year, and not let them go to waste. I know that the trials we face in this life are our Heavenly Father's mercies in disguise. (Stolen from another song :))
Love you all!

Christmas!!!

2010-12-30T17:46:00.006-07:00

We have had a very blessed and fun Christmas season this year. With Derick in-between jobs it has given us a unique opportunity to spend more time together than we would normally have been able to spend together, and we tried to enjoy every minute of it. We were able to really slow down and reflect on the most important aspects of Christmas, and we really enjoyed teaching our kids more about the importance of the Savior in our lives. We were also very deeply humbled and blessed by the generosity of friends, family, Secret Santa's, and neighbors who so willingly blessed our family in a difficult time. I don't think I will ever forget this Christmas and what it has taught me personally, and how it has changed my relationship with my Heavenly Father and my Savior. Here are some pictures from our Christmas Season...hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

The party with the Hofheins side of the family! The kids loved all of their presents from Grammy and Grampy!

Grammy Bake Day! Every year my mom does a special Christmas bake day with the kids. They look forward to it every year, and so do I! This year they did their own cakes shaped like gingerbread men...so fun! Thanks mom!

Christmas Eve PJ's...one of my favorite traditions!!

The Nativity Scene with the Hofheins cousins...another favorite tradition...

The girls in the aprons I made for them...yes--I DID just say that I made them! (Don't look very close...)!

Dyson opening his presents...he always opened presents with one hand, and ate candy with the other!

Everyone in the family got a new bike! We went on a Christmas ride as a family and lasted about 20 minutes because it was so cold...but we had a blast!!

Dyson on his big boy bike! He also got a bike trailer that he can ride in, and he loves that too!

The tree!

Fun opening presents at the Turners...thanks everyone for your awesome, thoughtful gifts!

Having fun at Jason and Katya's...

After we opened presents at the Turner's, we went over to Jason and Katya's house and did some awesome karaoke-ing...later in the evening I did some Britany Spears...but I won't share those pictures...

Second Grade!

2010-09-02T11:30:00.004-06:00

I cannot believe my baby is in 2nd Grade!! Time flies way too fast! It's been a week and she loves it...everything except for the homework! I think her favorite parts of the day are recess and lunch--she asks me to look up the lunch menu for her every morning so that she can be prepared :) She loves math (don't ask me where she got that from...definitely not from Derick and I...) and she loves to read if I can get her to sit still long enough! I was really happy when she still wanted me to walk her to school on the first day! She even let me take pictures of her at her desk. It's going to be a great year!

Summer's End

2010-09-02T09:26:00.003-06:00

As summer was coming to a close we wanted to take the kids out do something fun, so we surprised them and took them to the Classic Fun Center in Layton. They had so much fun! We spent time at the roller rink with scooters, played at the arcade, played in a Pirate's Ship climbing area, bounced on the bouncy slides...and topped it all off with an Icee!! We definitely got our fun's worth...!! It was a great day! I can't believe how big my kids are getting. I'm glad we got to have a day like this before school started again!

Family Camping Trip!

2010-07-27T15:56:00.005-06:00

This last weekend we decided to take the kids on a camping trip in the Uintas. I am not claiming that taking an almost 2 year old camping is a good idea...but we did it! The kids had a blast, and it was beautiful. So worth it! We decided to go to Hoop Lake.It was a small, gorgeous lake, and it wasn't crowded at all. Derick's brother Jason, his wife Katya, and their kids Danny and Leeza came with us, and we are so glad they did. We all had a lot of fun together! We all ended up catching a lot of fish, and we sure ate our fill! We came prepared to survive some terrifyingly exciting bear encounters, but much to our disappointment the bears kept their fraternizing to the lake...about 50 yards from our campground site. :) We came home filthy dirty, sunburned, and exhausted...but we have some great memories!! Can't wait for next year!

Dyson passed-out tired!

Ashie&Leeza

Brookie&Danny

My 3 greatest blessings!

The awesome view from our campsite

Jason displaying his "family-style" world's biggest tin foil dinner!

Jason, Katya, Danny,and Leeza

Rafting fun!

Dyson splashing in the lake!

Big bear and little bear!

Smokin' hot! I am one lucky woman!

Ashlyn Noel

Brooklyn Kay

Roasting marshmallows and Starbursts

Fishing fun!

Memorial Weekend!

2010-07-12T17:08:00.005-06:00

Every year my family gets together over the Memorial Day weekend, and this year was no exception! We decided to save some $$ and camped in my mom and dad's backyard. They have an AWESOME backyard...it is huge, with a "soccer field" big enough for all the kids and adults to play on. They also have an industrial-sized sand box...(also big enough for the adults...) :), and a swing-set. We had so much fun! Even though I am lucky enough to see all of my family pretty regularly, I still get sad when weekends like this end. We all get along so well, and have so much fun together...we all truly are best friends! I am so blessed!

Talent show dance!

Grampy painting fingernails!

Daddy and Dyson!

Brookie playing the nylon game!

Grammy and Grampy in a 3-legged race!

Ashlyn sporting her style for a relay race!

Grammy leading a parade!

Anna and Angela!

Taylor and Ashlyn!

Grampy and Dyson!

Thanksgiving Point Half Marathon!!

2010-04-29T07:58:00.007-06:00

I DID IT!!! I can now say that I've run a half marathon! 13.1 miles! It was definitely the hardest thing I have ever done mentally, physically, and emotionally in my entire life. I am still letting the thought settle in a little bit. I remember writing a post not even 18 months ago, about how my family thought I had died somewhere along the trail of the 5k we were informally running as a family. It's hard to see how far I've come, because I live with myself every day...it's hard to gauge progress and success. But on Saturday, when I crossed that finish line, it was pretty easy to be ecstatic with how far I've come. This has been such a big journey for me, trying to get healthy again. Such a roller-coaster. I have been struggling with my health/weight for over 7 years now...and with each passing year I gave up on myself a little bit more. There was a point that I honestly just stopped looking in the mirror...I wasn't happy, and it affected every area of my life. And then, at some point, I decided I could change, that nobody was going to do it for me, and most importantly, that I was worth it. This realization didn't come as a lightning bolt moment, it happened gradually. It happened every single day as I forced myself to be aware of how I was feeling not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Awareness and perception have allowed me to take on my struggles a little piece at a time. That, and relying on my Heavenly Father, my higher power. I still make mistakes...a lot of them!!...and I still have a long way to go...but I know I can do it! This half marathon is a monumental milestone...it doesn't mark the end of my journey, and it definitely hasn't been the beginning...just somewhere in the middle of this life-long process of me remembering who I am, who I can be, and the things and people who are going to help get me there. One step at a time... :)

The last half-mile...My sister met me there with my girls to finish with me...one of the coolest moments of my life!

The last turn...so...much...pain...

The big finish!!

The medals...

A piece of my inspiration...

Kiss it...

My biggest support...:)

Me and my sister Angela...she got me through it...thanks Ang!!! Couldn't have done it without you...

The whole fam...

Hot mamas...

The reward... ;)

Easter!

2010-04-19T09:24:00.006-06:00

We had a very low-key Easter this year, and because there was snow on the ground Easter morning I didn't even have my girls put on their cute Easter dresses! We stayed in our PJ's all day and had a fun day watching conference and spending time together.

Dyson having fun even though we didn't really let him do anything!!

The girls modeling their egg-dying accessories...

Egg-dying in action...

Dyson eating Peeps...his favorite!

The girls crashed after all the fun and candy...!

Finally warm enough to wear their Easter dresses!

Sisters!

7 going on...?...depends on the day...!

2010-03-30T16:27:00.002-06:00

My little Brookie Cookie has just recently turned 7 years old. 7!! I don't know why that freaks me out so much, but it does. Maybe because some days she is 7 going on 8...which is a really big deal...and some days she is 7 going on 17...which is something I'm not even able to fully process at the moment! I have heard the expression that "time flies" all of my life, but it was just another cliche to me until my kids were growing up just as fast as I could blink my eyes. I remember the day I had Brooklyn like it was just yesterday. She changed my life the very first moment I held her in my arms, and she has continued to bless our lives each day since. I feel so lucky to be the mother of such an amazing little...but not-so-seemingly-little-anymore girl. I love you Brooklyn!

Family Pictures November 2009

2010-03-30T15:21:00.004-06:00

Here are our family pictures that we took before Christmas this year. Derick's mom and dad were nice enough to drive up to Morgan, and his dad, who is a very talented photographer, took them for us...thanks dad! I think they turned out great! I can't believe how fast my kids are growing up!

Re-Dedication!!!

2010-03-30T15:12:00.001-06:00

I just wanted everyone to know that I am re-dedicating myself to my blog! I don't know how I got out of the habit, but I am ready to start again...!! Hope y'all don't get too bored!!

Summer Catch Up!

2009-09-27T10:12:00.010-06:00

I have gotten way behind on my blogging this summer, so this will just be a quick catch up on a few of the things we did! Please forgive me for the length of this post!

The Morgan County Fair
This has become a family favorite since we moved to Morgan. We have so much fun with the kids activities, and the girls love looking at all the farm animals. Our friend Jayne came with us this year, and the girls had so much fun together!

Cabin
We went to a cabin with some friends in July. It was up in the Uinta mountains, and it was beautiful! We only spent one night, but we all had a good time!

Temple Open House
We were able to make it to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open house, and it was a very neat experience. We all felt the spirit so strong as we walked through. I was explaining to Ashlyn that this was Heavenly Father's house, and she said "What room is He in??" :) I am so grateful for temples and that my little family will be together forever.

1st Grade!!

2009-09-26T17:08:00.003-06:00

I am so behind!! Brooklyn started 1st grade this year, and she absolutely loves it! She loves learning, and it is so fun to watch her learn new things. My favorite is listening to her read to me. She gets better every day! Her favorite part of school is definitely lunch (takes after her mother here...) and she loves that she gets to eat school lunch. One day she even went and asked for seconds :) Our backyard fence borders the school, and occasionally I practice my stealthy-stalker-spy-mom moves and watch her play at recess through my lilac bushes.(In the winter it is easier because the bushes are little, and I can watch her in the comfort of my own cozy kitchen while I am doing the dishes..)Wow!! I really am a stalker-mom!! Who knew?!? Anyway, point is, she is not my little girl anymore. People tried to prepare me for this moment, but I think it is one of those things you can never be truly ready for. And I don't even know when it happened. I remember rocking her in my arms, singing her to sleep, so little she could fit snugly on my shoulder, and I prayed for her as I put her in her crib. Now she fills her twin bed. She picks her own outfits. She wants to be a veterinarian. She has worries and responsibilities. And she prays for me. My soul now understands the depth of the term "bitter-sweet".

Happy Birthday Dyson Bear!!!

2009-08-26T08:15:00.004-06:00

I still can't believe it, but on Saturday little Dyson turned 1!!!! We had a fun day of celebrating. First, we went out to Grandma and Grandpa Turner's and had a big party, and then we headed over to Grandma and Grandpa Hofheins for dinner and another party!! Because we call Dyson our "Little Bear", I thought it would be fun to make him a teddy bear cake for his birthday. I have never really made a big cake before, so it was all a very new experience for me! It wasn't perfect, and I almost went insane...but it was mostly fun, and totally worth it when he dove in! (The paws detached so that he could have his very own cake to tear apart.) I can't believe that he is getting so big! He is such a sweet little boy, and overall is pretty happy all of the time! He loves playing with his big sisters, and his trucks...he is such a boy! I can't remember what my life was like before he came along. We are so blessed to have him!! I love you buddy!

Impromptu Haircuts

2009-07-23T19:27:00.003-06:00

I had always heard stories about little kids cutting their own hair, or their siblings hair, but I piously believed that it would never happen to me...HA HA!! Well, I had been away for the day at a Day Camp for my church calling. (I will just throw in here that they would probably have done this regardless if I was home or not...Derick is actually a very good babysitter...:)and she had cleaned up the evidence and hid it very carefully...) When I came home, Brooklyn came to greet me, and I immediately noticed that something was different with her hair. It took me a second to figure it out, and I asked her about it. Her face immediately dropped, and she was instantly regretting her decision. She told me that she had cut it. Well, then Ashlyn walked into the room. Not wanting to keep her new hair styling skills all to herself, she decided to cut Ashlyn's as well. I'd like to think that I kept an equal balance in my funny vs. angry emotions...but I think anger probably won out. Luckily she had only taken two snips of each of their hair, so it could have been much worse!! We immediately called Grandma Turner, and she very kindly opened up her schedule to fix it for us! Thanks Grandma! I actually love the girls hair short, and we got an extra reason to go see grandma and grandpa! Never again will I say never!!

Hiding the evidence in her "special drawer"...

Brooklyn looking very remorseful....

Ashlyn just going with the flow...

The new look...

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-07-23T18:45:00.003-06:00

Every Memorial Day weekend for as long as I can remember, me and all of my immediate Hofheins family get together. This year we decided to have everyone up at our house in Morgan for a camp out! We had such a good time (despite the one bathroom for 24 people)! We played games, roasted marshmallows, had an olympics day, did movies on the projector every night, read a lot, and the kids topped it off with a skit that they made up!! I feel so blessed to belong to the family that I do. They are my best friends, and my biggest supporters. Love you guys!! Can't wait for next year!

Pop's Party!!

2009-07-22T20:30:00.004-06:00

Every year at Morgan Elementary School the Kindergarten puts on a Pop's Party. There is a special musical program, a dinner, and games and crafts. All kindergarten students and their dad's are able to participate. Brooklyn was so excited for her big date with dad! They got to wear their best dress, get their pictures taken, and they had a fun night just the two of them!

Dance Review!!!

2009-06-17T12:05:00.005-06:00

Brooklyn had her year end Dance Review this last week!! We all had taken turns with a stomach flu, but luckily we got better just in time. We were there for a little over 3 hours, and I think she was on stage for maybe 10 minutes total, but it was worth it! She is in her element when she is performing. I am very proud of her!

Ashlyn was pretty much passed out on Grandma Turner's lap the whole time!

Dyson loved dancing and clapping to the music!!

Clogging Competition!!!

2009-05-09T09:34:00.010-06:00

Brooklyn has been taking a clogging class this year, and this last Saturday she got to perform in her first clogging competition at Lagoon!! It was rainy, and we were all soaking wet, but it was a lot of fun to be able to see her perform! She loves it, and her big smile lights up the stage!! Her team, The Cajun Gals, ended up taking 2nd place in their group!! Great job Brookie!!!

(Dyson was having so much fun in his car seat listening to all the loud music. He couldn't move very much, but it was fun to watch him having fun!)

2009-04-22T08:20:00.000-06:00

You delicately take the glove out of the worn, wooden box underneath your bed, the one that holds all of your most cherished treasures. You slowly raise it to your face, inhaling deeply, slowly. You slip your fingers delicately into the leather, savoring the way your fingers fit perfectly into their slots. Warm. Safe. A smile creeps across your face as you flex your hand and hear the gentle squeak of time passed. You reach back into your box and find your small vile of precious oil. You unscrew the lid and gently squeeze. Just three drops, right in the center. I stand in the doorway unnoticed, watching your ritual. Your arm flexes as you purposefully rub the oil into the glove. Back and forth. Back and forth. Pressing. Shaping. Back and forth until drops of sweat have beaded across your forehead. You flex your hand again. Again the smile. Silence. Satisfied you bring the glove back to your face. I inhale slowly, deeply. Tears form in the corners of my tired eyes and I let them drop to the floor. Just three. You reluctantly place the glove back into the box and quietly slide it back under the bed. Your eyes move anxiously to the doorway, but it is empty. Just like the glove.

Easter 2009!!

2009-04-15T11:53:00.002-06:00

I had a LOT of pictures!! Forgive me for having so many, but I really couldn't choose which ones to post!!

Zoo!!

2009-04-15T10:04:00.003-06:00

On Saturday after the MS Walk we got to go to the zoo with all of the Turner's. We all had a lot of fun, and the cousins had a great time spending the day together! This was Dyson's first zoo trip, and he loved watching all of the animals, but he fell asleep halfway through!! Oh well!! We had a great time anyway!!

MS Walk 2009!!!

2009-04-14T18:02:00.006-06:00

For those of you who don't know, my sister-in-law, Megan, who is just 23, was diagnosed with MS this January. So Saturday we all had the opportunity to go support her and MS research, participating in the MS walk at the Gateway in Salt Lake. It was a great day, and was really neat to be there with all of the family and thousands of others to support a great cause. I love you Megan!!

Dyson and me all ready to start the walk!!

Derick feeling the inspiration of the moment...

Everyone crowding in at the Gateway

The walk...

Our family with our medals!!!

General Conference!!

2009-04-06T12:16:00.002-06:00

Wow! Did I need that! What an amazing weekend. I felt like a sponge that had been sitting under the sink for months that had become all dried up and crusty, like I had forgotten what I was, what my purpose was. Then the music for the first session started. "Press Forward Saints, with steadfast faith in Christ..." and drop by drop I started absorbing the moisture. I began taking shape again. The fuller I got, the more I remembered. I am not some un-needed, crusty, old, dried up sponge. I am a daughter of my Heavenly Father, and He loves me. Another drop. I am a strong Christian. Another drop. I know...and I KNOW that I know. The drops were coming fast now, and things were getting much clearer and brighter. I am a lilly in my Heavenly Father's eternal field of grace and truth. My faith is not, and cannot afford to be circumstantial. Faith is a choice. There is no place in my soul for doubt, and discouragement, for these are just off-shoots of fear, fear in sheep's clothing, and faith and fear CANNOT co-exist. My future is as bright as my faith!! I do not walk alone, for Jesus Christ is standing beside me to succor me. He is my brother, and my advocate. And that, in itself, is all I need. All anyone needs. He is the Everlasting Water that fills my thirsty soul, He is my joy. And this is my testimony. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Updates!!

2009-04-03T11:57:00.006-06:00

I swear all I did was blink and my kids all seem so grown up! I've got to be honest, it's a little bitter-sweet. Some days I want them to just stay the way they are right now forever. But then there are all of those other days that make me change my mind....know what I mean?... ;) Anyway, my kids have all hit some big milestones these last few weeks (okay...big for me...) and I wanted to share with you all!

Brooklyn turned 6 this last month!! I can't believe it! She is growing up, and even got to go on her first field trip!! She helps us out a lot with her brother and sister, and is such a good girl! She loves to make people laugh and is so much fun to be around!!

I can't believe I actually get to say this....but after giving up all hope that there was any light at the end of the potty-training tunnel....we did it!!! Yes we did. ASHLYN IS POTTY TRAINED!! I don't know if it is cute or just plain pathetic that I am so excited about it...but I don't care. It is done. Hallelujah.

And now to Dyson! This is Dyson on a typical day. He is such a happy, joyful little boy :) He is such a good baby, and I honestly love being around him. He has such a sweet, tender little spirit. It is fun having a little boy around the house to help balance out all of the estrogen! Dyson rolls all over the place, and just this week he has figured out that he can move a lot faster if he army-crawls...(kind of wish he hadn't figured that one out yet...)! He loves being around his big sisters and love loves to pull their hair...much to their dismay:)

Okay...promise I am wrapping up :) Last week Derick and I got to get away for a night to the Alaskan Inn, an awesome B&B in Ogden Canyon. It was nice to spend some time away from the kids relaxing. I highly recommend it... but will spare you all other details... ;)

Okay...I really am done. Thanks you to those of you who made it through this long post!

Elevator Watching

2009-03-13T09:11:00.003-06:00

The elevator door opens and there stands a woman. Very tall. Very old. The deep lines etched in her face a tell-tale sign of her years spent hoarding her money. In her arms is perhaps the fattest white cat that I have ever seen. If it weren't for the loud purring I would have mistaken it for something else entirely. Each purr spoke of its life. L-a-z-y. S-p-o-i-l-e-d. R-i-c-h. The woman is absent-mindedly stroking it, petting it as if it were stuffed with hundred dollar bills, diamonds and rubies glistening on each of her wiry, knobby fingers. Her face is set in a slight smirk as the artificial lighting bounces off of her purplish-tinted, perfectly manicured hair. The flint in her eyes send fiery sprays, almost singeing the poor, dead animal draped around her fragile frame, the fur holding her body together in tiny, cold pieces. My eyes meet hers and they echo into her emptiness. Loneliness. Sadness. Regret. Just a flash, and then it is gone. She clutches her prized cat to her chest, resigned to her fate. I watch the door close and the elevator numbers climb to the very, very top.

2009-02-17T16:49:00.005-07:00

Just like the mirror on the bathroom stand
that I Windex-ed with a swipe of hand-
As crystal-clear as it seemed to me
My reflection echoes backwards---see?
Not perplexing as you thought it be...
even if there are some little streaks.
So blink, blink your eyes and try again
with the lightbulb on- the room not dim.
I'll try my best to move perfectly
so you won't mis-judge mistakenly--
My reflection echoes backwards---see??
Easy. You just mis-understand me.
02-17-09

Love Letters...

2009-02-10T11:13:00.003-07:00

Allow me to wax a little sentimental today, to dig into the deep, hopelessly romantic side of myself and say that I am just in love with love letters! Period. There is just something about a hand-written declaration of love that does something for the soul. The way you can save them and re-read them until the edges are frayed and worn, until the paper yellows and is almost see-through, the words like warming sunshine breaking through the clouds on a cold, stormy day. I can't think of a person in this entire universe that wouldn't benefit from a love letter. In fact, I think this world would be a much better place if we would all let our guards down a little bit more and express our love to others. The minute we think about it. No waiting. I was the recipient of a love letter this week...(giver shall remain anonymous--and as a side note- and quite possibly unrelated- let the record show that I have the best husband in the whole wide world)...and I feel like I am on cloud 89!! So people, get out your pens and papers, pick someone to write to, and please don't hold back. And it doesn't have to be a sonnet either...as long as it comes directly from the center of your heart. You most definitely will make some one's day- and probably so much more. Okay, that's all from me! Please forgive my cheesiness!! Love you all!

My Beautifully Good Looking Children.....

2009-02-08T19:24:00.009-07:00

Tuckered Out!!
Dyson and his cousin Lawson--Best Friends...
Beautiful Boy
Brooklyn and Dyson
Dyson sleeping with his daddy

Brookie and Ashie!!

Bill Me Later

2009-01-25T01:03:00.000-07:00

I have often thought that writing is the best form of therapy- so I hope you all don't mind if we have a little cyber-couch session. I will be sitting shoeless with my legs crossed on a worn, overstuffed leather armchair, and you all can take out your fancy pens and imaginary notebooks. Perfect. I feel better already. I suppose one of the most enjoyable parts of therapy (not that I would know...wink,wink...) is being able to say whatever comes to your mind the moment it comes to your mind and letting someone else (preferably a perfect stranger...but we will improvise here) put all the pieces together. So lets give it a go. Ready? Here are some random words off the top of my brain. pain worry family laugh skin gentle speak sad lonely cry break God funeral alcohol friend prayer peace. Hmmm- confusing...maybe slightly interesting--so glad I don't have to figure all of that out. Good luck and let me know what you come up with. I think our time is up.

Change

2009-01-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking a lot about change lately, trying to figure out just what it is about it that scares us so badly. Okay, I won't speak for EVERYBODY here, I guess I should say, why it scares ME so badly! Is it the--I-just-woke-up-out-of-a-dead-sleep-body-hurtling-50-mph-through-space-fingers-just-barely-gripping-the-end-of-this-slippery-pole-vault-feeling that a lot of time accompanies change?? It can't be because it is unexpected. Because this is the one thing that I have probably been schooled in the most throughout my life--the fact that things change. Everything changes: friends, loves, relationships, hobbies,bodies,homes,cars,lunch menus...for heaven's sake Pluto is not even a PLANET anymore!! So we really should be planning on change. But do I? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. But I don't think that this is why change is so scary. I think it might be because change is Heavenly Father's way of moving us forward. Well, it should be moving us forward. We have to choose that part. And that shouldn't be scary, but sometimes, because we are human, it is. And most of the time I choose to let it move me backward, and then I waste a lot of time running in very small, very panicky circles. Because I haven't yet learned how to gracefully turn it all over to Him. But I will. Someday, when I feel like I am once again being pole-vaulted through space, I will be able to close my eyes, relax, and enjoy the ride. I hope.

New Year!

2009-01-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

I am going to hopefully do things a little different with my blog this year. As some of you know, I love to write--but I don't take the time to do it very often. So I am going to start writing a lot more this year and then I am going to post it on my page. I am not promising anything fabulous, in fact, a lot of it probably won't be finished, but I would love your feedback. And if any of you are interested in forming some sort of online writing group let me know!! Okay-- here it goes. I put this one together during church today...so this is just a first draft.

Black. Foggy air pressed
against my face so thick
I can taste it. Heavy--my feet
slowly moving forward--
stumbling--one hand out in
front of my body frantic--
searching-- this night so
seemingly forsaken.
But I Am Not. Forsaken.
I sense you--My Shadow
through this fog-- I turn
and find you. My Pillar.
I feel your strength holding
me upright and I balance.
I take this mite--hard-pressed
in my cold, quivering fingers
--and give it to you. The
warmth of your hand
melting into my own.
My Brother.
And all again is light.

01-04-09

Disneyland Part 2!

2008-12-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

More Disney pictures!

Disneyland Part 1!!

2008-12-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry everyone! I have a lot of pictures from Disneyland and didn't want to cut any out...so if the slideshows are too long don't watch them all!! We had a great time! Thanks Grandpa and Grandma Turner!!

Grandpa Lemon

2008-12-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

This past Friday, December 12th, my Grandpa Lemon passed away very peacefully in his sleep after being very sick for the last few months. This is my first experience losing a grandparent, and I have been very lucky not only to have had them all here for this long in my life, but to get to see them and spend time with them pretty regularly. I was able to spend time with him and the rest of the Lemon family over the last 2 weeks, and have had some very neat experiences. I am happy to have a knowledge that Heavenly Father loves each of us, and has a very important plan for each of us. I am happy to know that the Savior lives and that He atoned for our sins so that we can, if we choose, offer Him our broken hearts, repent, have faith, and endure. And not only endure but be happy, joyful. I am happy to have a hope in my Savior, Jesus Christ and a knowledge that this life is not the end. I love my Heavenly Father, I love my Savior. And I love you grandpa.

First Plane Ride...

2008-12-09T13:59:00.000-07:00

Okay-don't know why I am admitting this to all of you- but tomorrow will be my first ride in an airplane. Yes. I am almost 27 years old...I think it is time. We will be flying to California- so a pretty short ride to break me in. I have to say- I am a little tiny bit nervous. I know that sounds so silly...but what can I say...I don't get out much! I had all these grand pictures in my mind of how it would be...me sitting in the window seat, quietly gazing over all of the wonders of the planet between Utah and California-- everything looking like tiny ants...lulled to sleep by the gentle hum of the engines...and though I know it might be slightly different than that...:)...I think I will keep it that way in my head...and I will enjoy my peanuts and my small beverage in a plastic cup.

2008-12-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun thanksgiving this year! We ran a 5k, had dinner, watched some football, and finished up with some pie and a rousing game of Bingo!! I am so thankful for my family and all that they mean to me. I love you all so much!

Turkey Run!!

2008-12-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

This year my family thought it would be fun to start a new Thanksgiving Day tradition. We thought we would all get together in the morning and run our own little 5k in my parent's neighborhood. I think we all decided it was a good way to help cut down on the guilt that would ultimately follow the cramming of turkey, mashed potatoes and other traditional Thanksgiving delicacies into our smiling faces!! So at 9 AM we set out. I had warned the rest of the family that I would be quite a ways behind them, and to proceed at their own-much-faster paces. They all quickly disappeared and I was on my own. I was happy as a lark- listening to the birds chirping in one ear- and my IPod in the other (thank you new Taylor Swift CD.) I was slow- yes- but I was doing it!! Well, I was just coming down the last street- one more street and I was home! I was expecting the well rested cheering and applause that would come from my family who had all finished a good probably 15 minutes before (give or take:) ). So I turned the corner- spotted my parents house- and there was nobody. Where are they? I started running through the possibilites in my head. Behind the cars in the driveway- waiting to surprise me? No... Hiding on the front porch waiting to surprise me...No...once I realized that there would be no surprising going on I started getting a little angry. Did they all go inside to start the eating without me!!??!! Then I saw my mom and my niece Jerrica running up the street towards me. "Audrey are you okay....?" "What happened?" Then I realized that nobody was there because they were all out looking for me! Although they had been previously warned that it may take me some time to finish- the Hofheins Family doesn't leave people behind!! So while I was joyfully in my own little world- patting myself on the back for almost finishing this blasted race- my sweet family thought I had passed out or dropped dead somewhere on the trail, and they were all out canvasing the neighborhood for me!! I guess I took a different street home then the rest of them- and we had just missed each other! So--too late to make a long story short--we all had a fabulous time. It kicked my but- and I was so slow my family thought I had died--:)--but I finished and will look forward to doing it again next year. Maybe next year I will wear some sort of tracking device.

My Baby Girl is 3!!!

2008-12-06T13:49:00.000-07:00

Ashlyn and Brookie helping bake the birthday cake!

The finished product-(don't be jealous of my mad cake decorating skills)

Out to lunch!

Ashlyn showing off her new My Little Pony named Pinkie Pie! (Yes...that was the name it came with...)

Ashlyn making her birthday wish!

New Haircut!!!!! AAAAHHHH

2008-11-18T17:04:00.000-07:00

Okay...most of you that know me know that I have basically worn my hair the same since about 6th grade! The length varies every once in awhile- but that is about it. So, I decided I wanted a big change and finally got brave enough to have my friend Jane cut it for me. After I got over the initial shock of how different it was I decided that I love it!! What do you all think of the new me??!

Bradlee's B-Day Party!!

2008-11-16T21:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from my nephew Bradlee's Birthday party last month. The kids had a lot of fun-- they loved hanging out with their cousins, and the Backyardigan's theme!! Good party Megan!!

6th Picture 6th Folder!!

2008-11-16T21:43:00.000-07:00

Ang you tagged me!! I knew if I just waited long enough.....

This is a picture of aunt Amy holding baby Dyson the day after he was born...her reward for spending the entire day at the hospital with the rest of my family the day before!!

I tag Brooke and Marie....

2008-11-10T17:44:00.000-07:00

This is a picture from the Hofheins family halloween party we had a few weeks before Halloween. Dyson, Olivia, and Lawson were all born within a few months of each other. So cute!!

Dyson's Baby Blessing

2008-11-10T17:33:00.000-07:00

We had Dyson blessed in Sacrament Meeting last Sunday. It was such a special day. Derick did a beautiful job and the spirit was so strong. We had both of our families up, and everybody was able to come except for Derick's brother Chris, who had to work. The day was so nice, and it was really neat that Derick and I were able to bear our testimonies in Sacrament Meeting with both of our families there. It is so important for me for my family to know that I have a testimony of Jesus Christ and His atonement. After Sacrament Meeting we all went back to the house and had lunch. Thanks everybody for helping me with all of the food!! We were a little short on house space because we are still in the middle of remodeling the girls' bedroom, but we all squeezed in! Good thing we love each other! We had 16 children--14 under the age of 6!!! The day went great and I feel so blessed for all of the things Heavenly Father has given me!

2008-11-10T17:30:00.001-07:00

2008-11-10T17:12:00.001-07:00

Growing Up!

2008-10-09T18:55:00.000-06:00

I can't believe almost 7 weeks have passed since we had Dyson!! He has changed so much!! But he is still so calm and sweet! Such a serious little boy- definitely a thinker!

2008-10-09T16:53:00.000-06:00

ISMS...

A few days ago we had just finished family prayer and after it was over Brookie looked at Derick and I and enthusiastically said, "I hope Jesus says yes on this one!

The other day Brookie was trying to do something and was getting very frustrated because it wasn't going well. Ashlyn looked at her and said, "Brookie, sometimes its not easy, and sometimes you have to just start over and try again."

Well said girls!!

7 Years 7 Things...

2008-10-09T13:45:00.000-06:00

One week ago Derick and I celebrated our 7 year anniversary so I thought it would be appropriate to share with you all 7 things that I love most about Derick... bear with me...

His love for....
1. Me. He still loves me. Every day.
2. His kids. This includes loving all things girl- such as Barbie Fairytopia. And he changes more diapers than me.
3. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
4. Singing. I fell in love with his voice when I first heard him sing. He still sings to me.
5. Writing. Derick has such a natural ability to write. Especially song-writing. My favorites are the ones inspired by me...go figure.
6. The group Bare Naked Ladies...he keeps me laughing and looking at the fun side of life...even if this band drives me absolutely crazy!
7. Our future. I love his ambition and all the goals he sets for himself. Sometimes hard to keep up with...but inspires me nonetheless...

Okay- thank you all for letting me wax cheesy for a moment... Derick I love you!!

Construction!!!

2008-10-08T17:58:00.000-06:00

We are finally remodeling our girls bedroom!! Yeah!! We are so excited to get it done! What a blessing! Here are some fun pictures of the work in progress!

2008-09-17T16:40:00.001-06:00

Brooklyn's Creative Dance Class!!

Aspiring Ballerina

2008-09-17T16:40:00.000-06:00

Brooklyn loves to dance! We finally put her in a Creative Dance class and she loved every minute of it! This year she is taking 2 different classes. One is a clogging/tumbling class and the other is a jazz/ballet class. Her teachers love her...they ask me where she got all her natural ability from and I tell them that I have absolutely NO IDEA!!

All Grown Up...

2008-09-17T15:00:00.001-06:00

Another picture of my big kindergarten girl who already thinks she is too grown up for her mommy...

Kindergarten...

2008-09-17T14:53:00.001-06:00

Brooklyn started Kindergarten this year! This is her on her first big day! She thinks she is all grown up now, and she didn't even want me to walk her to school...but I made her let me come!!

Little Brother!!

2008-09-17T14:44:00.000-06:00

2008-09-17T14:42:00.000-06:00

Our little angel!

2008-09-14T11:41:00.000-06:00

Dyson has such a sweet mellow spirit--he is such an angel!!

Dyson Derick Turner

2008-09-14T11:31:00.000-06:00

Dyson Derick Turner
was born on August 22, 2008
at 6:37 P.M. He weighed 6 lb. 13 oz.
and was 19 inches long... so tiny!!

New Addition!

2008-09-11T18:45:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone!! This is the new Turner family with our newest little addition to the family--Dyson Derick Turner!