Bennifer

St. Patrick's Day!

2010-04-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

My sister Amy and her fiance, Sam, came to visit us for their Spring Break. For St. Patrick's Day we went to the pool. The water was too cold for us, not For Carter of course, so we just sat in the hot tub. After playing in the water we had a festive green dinner. The green sour cream was a little hard to swallow the first few bites. Then we watched Darby O'Gill and the Little People. Good times! It was a fun day.

The digital age....

2010-01-25T21:55:00.000-08:00

In my attempt to backup my 2009 photos to our external hard drive....

I lost basically everything! Yep, 90% of my photos/videos from 2009 are gone. I am so sad. Especially when I start thinking about specific trips or events that I have nothing of. So, take it from me, BACK UP WEEKLY! Always copy your files, never cut them, and burn them to a disc as well as an online backup site. I cry now...

My little Clark Kent

2010-01-20T19:42:00.000-08:00

2009 Christmas Video

2009-12-01T14:55:00.000-08:00

This year's videos were a little hard. We had to have them done by Thanksgiving which meant our filming was done in October. In other words, there were no decorations out! So, its not a Christmas theme...but it worked:)

Carter and Santa

2009-12-01T14:53:00.000-08:00

Carter 3 Years Old

2009-11-18T20:08:00.000-08:00

You know you've had a bad day when...

2009-10-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

I have been potty training Carter. Today we were having a Halloween party and about 20 minutes before we were to leave he pooped his pants. I was in the middle of hemming his pants and not ready to go. I was already stressed so you can imagine how I reacted when he did this. So, I stuck him in the tub and said we weren't going to the party.

Well of course I had to go...but I was not happy. So, in my fit of rage to get out of the house before the party was over, I put on my shoes and left.

I was there for 45 minutes when a girl asked me, "Did you know you had 2 different shoes on? I wasn't sure if it was part of a costume..."

Um, nope. Just a little stressed out today!!!!

I think I have a fish for a son!

2009-09-10T20:14:00.000-07:00

Carter and his technology abilities....

2009-08-21T19:22:00.000-07:00

Carter is obsessed with watching this Pirate video on Youtube. After 3 times its way annoying but he could watch it all day. Here he is figuring out how to make it replay by hitting the space bar. Needless to say, he pushes it ALL the time now!

MAY day, MAY day another post has been made!

2009-07-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

MAY
The month of May was not quite as busy as April, thank goodness. So it makes for a shorter post.

I got to spend the Saturday before Mother's Day with Patty Elzinga and her cute grandkids. Pathetic that the only time the fellow Brookwood folks see each other here in Arizona is when our parents are here! Life happens. Anyways, we went to the Santan Village Mall and played in the jumping water fountains then ate at Chic-Fil-A. Patty even gave me some flowers for Mother's Day. Quinn and Kelley have such good kids. Patty's too sweet and it was so good to see a familiar face down here.

Here is my little parrot. Carter repeats everything! He loves movies and listening to the music from them. Here he is quoting a line from Return of the Jedi.
"Jabba,this is your last chance. Free us, or die!"

Arpil Fools!.....just a few months late....

2009-07-07T20:03:00.000-07:00

Well its been a while since I've taken the time to sit and update this thing. So, here's the skinny on our fat lives! HA HA

APRIL

Noah participated in the Pinewood Derby. We had some issues with his car so needless to say, he came in dead last. Poor kid. Ben felt bad, I felt bad, Noah felt bad! When it was time for awards everyone got a certificate for participating and then the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place got their special prizes. Noah, being last, got the "Flat Tire" award. A chocolate cake with a nail in it. At this point, all the boys wanted that prize which made Noah feel a lot better. Good sport in the end.

Just like the Manti Pageant, Mesa Temple has an Easter Pageant. Its just as huge and well attended. We got to go with all the kids this year. It was so good. They use real animals and neat effects. The pictures don't do it justice, since we were far back, but you get the idea.

My sister Amy came home from her mission to Fort Worth, TX. I really wanted to be there and seeing her for her homecoming wasn't good enough. I couldn't imagine missing out on the family togetherness. So, thanks to my sweet hubby who volunteered to do my baby sitting and work from home, I left Wednesday morning, April 1st. I called my dad to tell him I was coming and that it was a surprise. Carter was so good in the car. We made it to my parents and my mom wasn't home. I came in the house only to find out my dad couldn't keep it a secret and told a few of my sisters I was coming. He's so cute. But mom still didn't know. So we were there no more then 5 minutes when we hear the grocery honk...family joke. My dad, Christian and sissy Missy went to help bring stuff in. They mentioned how no one had done an April's Fool joke and how weird it was and that made my mom hesitant to come in. Her reaction was so priceless. There was me and Carter in the living room holding a sign saying: APRIL FOOLS!

Amy came home the next day and I surprised the rest of the family at the airport. It was so good to see everyone and have it be a surprise. We were just missing my brother Matt, his wifey Lauren and their cute baby Matti. It was great to see Amy and I was so glad I was there.

We celebrated Easter while I was there. We did our traditions of dying eggs and this year did our hunt in the church. Fun, and easy clean up and lots of places to hide eggs!

My sister's Heidi and Laurel were due any day. I couldn't handle it. I so wanted them to have their babies while I as there. On Saturday, Heidi and Jeff came over. Heidi was miserable and trying to pass another kidney stone. I told her I would massage her feet, reflexology style and see if I could help put her into labor. I found her kidneys and she almost hit the ceiling. Then I rubber her uterus/ovaries. Jeff left to go to Priesthood session with his dad and about 20 minutes later called him and told him to go to the hospital instead. Heidi was in major pains. Mom, Dad, Amy and Heidi left and about an hour of being there was officially induced and in labor. I was so excited!!!

Riley Noel Bethers finally came on Sunday morning during conference. There was a few difficulties getting her out but she and Heidi were fine. I had to go home the next day and Laurel was being induced. I stayed as long as I could. It was a slow labor for Laurel and finally when I was in the middle of no where and in roaming I got the call. Mary Lynne Alldredge was here! So happy to have 2 new nieces and so close.

Riley

Me and Riley

Carter giving Riley kisses

Sweet little Mary

Back to Arizona. We then celebrated Easter with the Kleck (Carter's grandma) family. They are so sweet to include us. The kids all got loads of eggs and we all had a good time. The weather was perfect even with the mini rain storm. We came home and dyed eggs and instead of hiding them, we just hid the baskets. The kids liked that.

Carter wasted no time unwrapping his chocolate bunny!

I returned to Utah again, this time with Ben for Amy's homecoming. We got to stay a week and I saw many friends that I hadn't seen in a long time. My other sister Karen was now having her baby. This time she as scheduled for a C-section on Tuesday. Now we have HAROLD (HARRY) CHRISTIAN ROBINSON!So many babies and yet another one still to come. My family is just trying to follow the prophet and multiply the earth:) Harry had a few little problems and had to stay a few days extra in the hospital.

Harry

Did I miss anything? Man, what a BUSY month!

It's a Small World After All...

2009-06-29T15:27:00.000-07:00

Ever since we went to Disneyland Carter has been in love with Small World. I had the song on a CD that, up until he shoved pennies into my car CD player, he'd make me play it over and over over. I got him to sing it on video, so enjoy. The best is the end:)

The ugliest toy ever!

2009-05-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

Disneyland and a Birthday? What could be better?!?

2009-03-30T00:11:00.001-07:00

I turned 28 on March 20th, I cry now, and I really wanted to take advantage of the free day at Disneyland. Without a lot of convincing, Ben agreed so off we went. It was just the 3 of us, Ben, Carter and myself. We drove down Thursday evening and stayed at my brother's in-laws house. I was like a little kid, too excited to sleep so I only got about 4 hours.

We got up early and on our way stopped at the BEST donut place, Donut Man. My favorite donuts are the fresh peach and fresh strawberry but they only make them when they are in season. LUCKY for me, the strawberries are in and I was a very satisfied girl. Carter's finally at the age where he knows and understands who the characters are and I couldn't wait to see his reactions. Even though he's been 4 times it felt like I was taking him for the first time. Weeks before we went all he could talk about was riding on Dumbo. Oh, to be a child again.

We met up with Matt and Lauren after Matt got off work. Lauren's mom and sister Taylor came as well. It was so good to see everyone and Carter met Mattison, Matt's little girl, for the first time. They were so fascinated with each other. He loved giving her kisses and she kept trying to get his attention. She is such a munchy and I'm sad we don't get to see them more.

Saturday morning we spent at Disneyland then left when it was getting crowded and headed to the beach. Carter was in heaven! A giant sandbox and water! The water was so cold but Carter was oblivious. We had a blast and then Lauren's dad made us BBQ hamburger's. I brought the birthday cake since I was only wanting a Costco cake, they're the best! A great day.

We spent the next morning at Disneyland, ate at my favorite restaurant, Story Teller's Cafe, and then drove home later that evening. It was such a good weekend and a great way to celebrate your birthday. I highly recommend it!

February flash back...

2009-03-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

My cousin Katie was married on February 6th and we were able to make the trip to Utah. Even though it was a very short trip it was so good to see everyone.

The 2 NONE pregos on the ends and the 4 pregos in the middle.

Me, Karen, Heather, Melissa Straw-Smith and her sister Shauna Jorgenson went to see this movie. Loved it! I just realized that it stars 3 Jennifer's; Aniston, Connolly and Goodwin. Just thought it was funny.

Here is Carter in the bathtub. He didn't know I was recording at first. Then when he does he starts singing the Clean Up song. So funny.

Here is Carter watching a movie at Grandma Nise's house.

Wearing Grandpa Lamar's hat

Carter just being Carter

Noah got his Webelo Scarf and a belt loop thing. Still not savvy on this Scout stuff.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T13:20:00.001-07:00

So, like the Skousen I am, I'm obsessed with Holidays and themes. I only like to watch Halloween movies in October, Christmas in November & December and of course deck my house out with appropriate decor. Well, being March, the only movie I have for St. Patrick's Day is Darby O'Gill and the Little People. It's about an old man who finds a leprechaun and how he makes his wishes. Some may find it boring, not me. It's a classic Disney. Naturally, I make Carter watch it all month long and he's really learned to like it and asks to watch it almost daily.

In the movie, a "scary banshee" ghost-like person comes to claim the soul of Darby's daughter. As kids this thing scared the crap out of us. This is Carter imitating it, and the picture is what it looks like in the movie.

He is such a funny kid and a Skousen through and through.

Happiness and Harmony, that's what counts with children

2009-03-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

Lately Carter has been in the testing mode. He knows EVERY button to push and tests me to my wits ends. The last 2 weeks have been awful. He's lucky to be alive. I tell him NOT to do something and he looks right at me and goes right on to do it. He uses my dishwasher and oven as stepping stools to get on the counters so nothing is safe.

The other day I met Ben at the mall to help him pick out new glasses. He was still in his exam so I wandered the mall and into a camera store. I had just bought myself a 44 oz. Cherry Coke and was very excited to drink the whole thing. Well I stopped to ask the man a question and Carter tried to get out of the stroller. He was buckled which of course makes no difference. He managed to dump my entire drink on the floor. I was ENRAGED! The man gets me a pack of paper towels to use. It was all over my pants, part of the counter. RAGE. So Carter's bawling because he got a swat and Ben finds us. I stand up and tell him I'm going home. Screw the glasses at this point. Ben then goes on to tell me that his exam cost 76$ instead of 15$ because it hadn't been a year since his last one.
"So when's the year mark?" I raged
"May"
WHAT THE! It was like adding insult to injury. Why couldn't he wait the 2 months? SO, now I'm raged at him. We get to the doors and I took Carter's drink and chucked it because if I didn't get one neither did he! Which made him cry again. We get to the car and Ben asks if I'm mad. Ya think?

I'm chucking Carter and the stroller into the car (obviously making a scene) and this girl comes up to us and asks to borrow some cash for gas blah blah blah. It was all I could to bite my tongue and not rage at her too. Stupid girl. So I leave Ben and said see ya at home. I rage the whole way home. Thankfully, Carter fell asleep on the way. I park and turn off the car and sit for like 10 minutes trying to get courage to finish the night. I go to get Carter out and he wakes up and says, "Sorry mama."

Dangit, now then it broke my heart that I was such a retched mother. And when Ben got home I apologized for my hagginess. And he apologized for not thinking and said he could've waited.

WHY!?! Why must we go through these trials of evil children and husbands who don't think? I still love them though and continue to deal with Carter's blatant disobedience. Good times at the Hunter home. Don't cross my path on the wrong day!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-17T19:57:00.000-08:00

We had a very busy Valentine's Day this year. Not only is it the day Ben proposed to me a year ago, happy engagement anniversary!, but Mollie was finally baptized! She loved her white dress and got a rose from the Primary President. We also gave her a set of scriptures with her name on it, which she was so excited to have her own!

The second collage is the flowers Ben gave me just messing around with the collage feature in Picasa. It was a very good Valentine's Day (even though I was a little sick) and we're very excited for Mollie.

Carter and his potty mouth!

2009-02-01T19:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas Story is a staple at Christmastime, at least for our family. In the scene where Ralphy gets his decoder coin and he finds out that its a "crummy commercial" he uses the naughty phrase, "son of a @!#%&". Well, Carter thought it was something to repeat. At first I was shocked, then laughed, then shocked again.

Well, we tend to say, "son of a" and not finish the phrase. Carter thought he was suppose to fill in the blank with the real word. Its horrible but I can't help but chuckle and then I tell him its a bad word. I know, I know. The more I laugh the more he'll say it. Tonight during the Super Bowl game Ben used the phrase and Carter finished it and then continued to say it. So I pulled out the camera and this is what I got...sorry its not edited for your shocking laughs.

Carter's 2 Years Old Pics

2009-01-22T13:03:00.001-08:00

Harry Potter

2009-01-13T10:20:00.000-08:00

For those who don't know, Carter is big time into Harry Potter. He watches them over and over, drives me crazy. Anything can be a wand. Well this morning, we've been watching The Prisoner of Azkaban, sp?, and from time to time he loses interest and goes off to play. He was playing with his Thomas train in the kitchen and got out the broom. The next thing I know he's sitting on it! I was totally peeing my pants and was glad my camera was close by.

7 Months....

2009-01-05T11:47:00.000-08:00

So today marks our 7 Month Anniversary. Crazy! It seems like it's been a lot longer and yet I can't believe how fast its gone. Here's to a long life ahead of us! I love you honey and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

"Bwoken"

2008-12-31T19:46:00.000-08:00

Carter likes to put things in his pockets, so I've discovered today. I found an old Walmart receipt which had been washed in his pocket today. He acted like it was quite the big deal when I pulled it out and he made me put it back in there. Well about 4 hours later I hear Carter in the kitchen so I called for him to come out. He brings me the masking tape and his receipt and says, "Bwoken, bwoken". It had 2 little hole in it. He was trying to fix it. I was totally peeing! I had to put 2 small pieces on it then he was happy. He is such a nerd and he never ceases to amaze me.

2008-12-25T09:11:00.000-08:00

Santa's Elves are takin' a break!

2008-11-18T22:41:00.000-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARTER!

2008-11-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

Today my baby turned 2 years old. I can't believe its already been 2 years! He was suppose to be born on the 17th but I think he really just wanted to share his birthday with none other than Mickey Mouse! I know, classic Skousen. He is such a monkey and (I'm beating him as I type this...) I'm so glad I'm his mommy. He is such a typical 2 year old, tantrums and all. I love him and couldn't be more grateful to have him. HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARTER!

We invited Carer's cousins to a bounce place to celebrate!

Asher

Colton

Legos from Grandma Nise

See N Say from great-aunt Cheryl

We went to Red Lobster to eat dinner. He was eating a lemon and thought he was quite hilarious.

Halloween Time!

2008-11-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

I have some serious blogging to do!
On November 1st we moved from our tiny 1 bedroom apartment into a 2 bedroom one across the parking lot. Pretty much the easiest move ever. Although it really sucked to still have to pack up so much of it just to walk 30 feet. Needless to say, I'm still unpacking and being lazy about it. That's why we had no updates.

So, here are some pics from Halloween 2008! They're out of order, but I just wanted to get them on here.

Mollie and Carter on the little ride at our Ward Trunk or Treat!

Noah's Storm Trooper

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Here is a better idea of what Noah's costume is suppose to be. He is camouflage...

Carter actually let me put the pirate bandanna on him!

My pumpkin, Mike from Monster's Inc.

Mollie's puppy pumpkin

"I've got a very bad feeling about this"

2008-10-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

This quote is from the new Indiana Jones movie, hence the title of this post:)

Mutt Williams: A scorpion just stung me, am I gonna die?
Indiana Jones: How big?
Mutt Williams: Huge!
Indiana Jones: Good.
Mutt Williams: Good?
Indiana Jones: When it comes to scorpions, the bigger the better. Small one bites ya, don't keep it to yourself.

Well, this is what I found on my kitchen counter this morning!

If Ben wasn't home to kill it, I'm afraid he would still be alive. Now I don't dare go into the kitchen and my skin is just crawling. I want to move back to Utah!!!

My poor laptop!

2008-10-28T09:11:00.000-07:00

If you have a child you're constantly telling NO you can relate very well to this. Carter, the little dear, loves to play with anything that is not a toy. So, naturally, my laptop is a hot commodity. Is that the right word? Anyways, over time he has caused some major physical damage to it. He likes to open the CD drive and take CD's out or put them in. On the side there's a little push button thing that ejected this cover for extra drives, I guess that's what it is. Well he took the cover and slid it under the oven and now its gone for good. He LOVES to pull the keys off too. From the picture below you will notice just how much he loves it. Notice how I have to improvise the Left Arrow key with a different key, because he chewed on the real one! The keys that are missing, were not fixable or he lost them. He is a true devil. But, thanks to me being smart, one time, I bought the 4 year warranty on the laptop and got it all replaced for FREE! Now its like new again and I am being extra cautious in keeping him AWAY!

Arizona State Fair

2008-10-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, October 14th, Carter's cute Grandma Nise took us to the fair. You know how fairs are, dirty, WT, kind of scary not sure why we go? Well this one was a little better than that. Still WT but also MT, if you can't figure that our you're not racist. HA HA. We met her sisters and nieces with their kids there. Let's see, 2 grandmas, 1 great aunt, 6 moms, 5 strollers and like 9 kids. We were quite the caravan. If you haven't tried Indian Fry Bread at the fair, which I never had, you are missing out! It is so yummy we got it for lunch and to take home for dinner.

I'm not a very adventurous person especially if it involves my child. But I was talked into riding an elephant! I was so nervous. It was cool but something I'd probably only do once. The elephant's name was Becky. Carter didn't seem to realize a whole lot as to what was going on, but he wasn't scared, thank goodness!

After that we walked over to the monkeys. We met BoBo and he was so cute. Carter gave him a dollar, which he took out of his hand, put it in a bucket then handed Carter a post card. It was hilarious.

Carter and Denise with BoBo

Carter petting the monkey's tail.

There was a lot of free stuff for the kids to do. It was a really fun fair. I even got my glasses and ring cleaned for free! HA HA. I love it how they try to get you to buy everything.

Carter feeding the animals. He loved the baby goats.

California here we went?

2008-10-17T13:12:00.000-07:00

On October 9th, my parents and all my sisters, minus Amy, met me in California for Matt and Lauren's baby's blessing. First of all, Mattison is such a stinkin' doll. Of course we fell in love with her the second we found out she was born and a girl, FINALLY! Ok, back to the Cali trip. I had to drive myself, which was boring, but I survived. We met at our hotel and went to dinner. Mind you Laurel, Karen, Heather and Heidi are all pregos. They never let us forget it:) Lazy butts. (P.S. IF I am prego, you can all burn because I couldn't use it as an excuse).

Everything was decked out for Halloween, so cute!

Thanks to Brother Matt's employment with the Magic Kingdom he was able to get us in free. BTW, it is family only and he only has so many passes he can use:) Oh, but first, we got up a little after 5AM so we could be there before it opened. So Matt, Lauren and Matti met us there. We had a blast. The funny thing is we were so excited to be just us, no kids or hubbies. But half the day was spent shopping for them! We had some good times, the best was Space Mountain when our dad got left behind and I got so raged. At the seat belt check I said to the guy, "What the hell half our party got left behind!" It was one of those RAGE moments where you feel the heat and blood go to your face and its all you can do to not kill someone. Well, the guy that let us on the ride to begin with, Helium Man, because he sounded like he just inhaled some, gave us passes to go again so we could be together. I know that doesn't quite paint the picture of how it happened, but overall it was hilarious and the pictures were the best.

Since we had no kids or hubbies to drag back to the hotel, I wanted to stay and be the last ones out. I was so determined. Matt and Dad left to get the cars and us girls lingered as long as we could. We were just waiting on 3 girls with a baby to leave so we could be the last ones out. Everyone but Karen, Missy and me left to meet the cars. We pretended to take pics of the Mickey flower garden at the entrance and finally the hags left. I said to the guy as we were leaving, "What do we get for being the last ones out?" his response was, "A round of applause from me. Now get out so I can go home." He was kidding of course. But they locked the gates behind us and we made our goal! So lame, but I couldn't be prouder. We left around 1:40AM. Don't forget, we got up around 5 that morning! So once back in our hotel and in bed it was well after 2AM before we were sleeping. Now that's what I call a Day at Disneyland!

A picture of them taking a picture of us!

My cute Mom and Dad!

Heather was, by far, the ugliest on the trip. Prime Example!

I was ugly too. Like my hair extensions?

Sweet little Mattison, already hip in her shades!

I hate him!

Ray Charles, ladies and gentlemen.

I lied, Amy was there!

I told you, a doll!

I'm normal like that.

Yeah, so's my dad!

On Saturday we went to Downtown Disney and spent more money we didn't have. Then we spent the rest of the day with Lauren's fam and getting ready for the blessing.

Matt did a great job on the blessing and Matti was quiet as a mouse. After a delectable (that's totally a Heidi word) luncheon we all had to drive home and back to reality:( It was a great weekend and I loved being with my haggy, gay, cool family. I miss you guys! And I was so happy to finally meet Matti in person.

My mommy made this cute cake!

Mattison and I

Little ghosts and goblins are waitin' for you....

2008-10-01T23:41:00.000-07:00

So in the spirit of the Halloween Season I wanted to make a spooky video. Thanks to the help of our fabulous family it turned out great! The sound and lighting aren't the best, but it's better than nothing! ENJOY!
P.S. I totally dribbled filming the last scene, you'll see what I mean.

Fountain Fun!

2008-09-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

Carter loves water. In this respect, he is so my child. Denise, his other grandma who lives here, which Carter calls Nise, and I went to the Santan Village, an outside mall. They have the jumping fountains that you can play in. Well since its still so hot, we went yesterday and Carter thinks its just the best thing ever. For anyone who hasn't heard me talk about Denise, well she is pretty much the most amazing person I have ever met. Her and her family are so thoughtful and loving. I've never met a more incredible family.

Goodbye Summer....well not yet....

2008-09-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

It's September 24th and still reaching the triple digits. At least its the low 100's. There really hasn't been too much going on these days. I just have a few pics from the month. Carter likes to get the oven mits out and put them on like shoes. This kid seriously has a shoe fetish.

We went to our Ward Camp Out at Sharp Creek. The crappy thing about living here, if you want to go to the mountains to camp, you have to drive like 2 hours. Oh well, the temperature is cooler there. I actually slept in a tent, and I was reminded of why I don't like to. Even though we had an air mattress, it got so cold in the night that it went flat and we were freezing because the kids slept on the sleeping bags for their beds. They were nice and comfy, Ben and I not so much. Next time, if there ever is one, they can sleep on the ground. Just kidding, I'm not that mean!

Carter also is obsessed with the IPOD and I'm grateful they exist!
It's come in handy lately.

Pretty much all the odd and crazy pics of Carter are things he does himself. Here's a few examples:
He likes to climb into the dryer or stick toys and what not in it.

Yeah, I'm not lying about this one. He thinks he can use a computer. Occasionally I'll find him trying to use the mouse, this time he added the headphones. He is so gay!

This one is at Peter Piper Pizza. He was out of control climbing on all the games/toys.

It's great to be 8!

2008-09-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

Mollie turned 8 on September 20. 8? I swear it was 13. She acts very grown up for 8. She went to Build-A-Bear with her best friend Emily then we all got together for pizza at Peter Piper Pizza, it's the pizza people pick. She was very excited to get her gifts. They're all we've heard about the whole month before. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOLLIE!

Which Princess are you?

2008-09-17T16:05:00.001-07:00

You Are Ariel!

Headstrong and fiesty. You have a mind of your own that's full of romantic dreams about the world around you. Exploring exotic places is your ultimate dream, and although you can be a little naive you'll realize that there is something to be gained from your family's wisdom.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Trip to Utah!

2008-09-05T11:31:00.000-07:00

I drove up to Utah on Saturday, August 23rd. It was a long drive, but Carter did pretty good. On Sunday he touched my mom's flat iron and burned his finger. Then later that day, when family was all there, he scratched his arm. Pretty bad too. He didn't cry about it so nobody knew anything had happened. He also pulled off the handle on my mom's china hutch. Welcome home Carter! It's classic.

This is how Carter was sleeping that night we got there. He wasn't tired or anything!

Here is Carter and "Nanath"(is what Carter calls him) playing in the backyard. Now that they're finally old enough to play with each other, we have to live in another state:(

I spent the week just hanging out and going through the rest of the crap I left. On Wednesday we had a Girl's Night Out. We saw the new Sister Missionary movie, Errand of Angels. It was a cute Mormon movie. Then we ate at Spaghetti Mama's. Yummy food!

On Friday, Ben flew out. I was glad not to have to drive home alone. We celebrated my Grandma Skousen's 90th Birthday that night. Ben got to meet some more of my extended Skousen family. There's only about a million of us!

On Saturday, thanks to BIL, Sam, we got to go to the BYU game. Melissa and I learned that it is basically impossible to bring kids to a game. I didn't even know that Iowa had scored and that the quarterback was injured and the game was stalled for about 5 minutes. We were so distracted. But it was still fun. I haven't been to a game in 2 years!

We spent some time with Ben's family on Sunday. It was good to see them as well. We got a disc of wedding pics from Ben's dad. The first I've seen other than the 5 on the internet!
We drove home on Labor Day. It was about 60 degrees and raining when we left at 10:30. We got home around 9PM and it was 95 degrees. I'll miss the Fall weather! But in December, ask me again how much I like AZ weather!

Big Surf

2008-09-05T11:16:00.000-07:00

I forgot to post this earlier. On August 2nd, Ben's work sponsored a Water Park day. We got to go to Big Surf. It was a lot of fun. Many of you know, I'm part fish and can't get enough of the pool. Especially when its so hot you can just walk right into the water.

Overgaard!

2008-09-05T10:14:00.000-07:00

In the middle of August (I'm too lazy to get up and look at the exact date) we went on a little weekend, semi-camping trip to Overgaard with Carter's grandma Denise and Grandpa Lamar. We stayed in a cute little cabin. Lamar and Denise have a trailer there that they visit all summer long. The elevation is a lot higher so it was cooler temperatures. It was so nice to get out of the heat. We spent Saturday morning just driving around the area. It is a beautiful part of the state. Then we drove to the Snowflake Temple. It's very small but beautiful. Lamar and Denise are wonderful people and I'm so glad we get to see them regularly.

Our cute little cabin we stayed in.

On the way there, Carter got into the snack bag and pulled out the raisins. I didn't know it until I turned around saw him eating them. This is his pose!

Carter playing in the fountain at the temple.

Carter trying to get all the way in the water. Notice Ben's face. He is so over-protective. Hey, if he gets in it, he's the one wearing the wet clothes!

Olympics (I copied Karen)

2008-08-22T21:58:00.001-07:00

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What Really Grinds My Gears Part 2

2008-08-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

It's that time again!
You know what really grinds my gears? When Financial Institutions punish you for being poor. I'm mean seriously! It's not our fault we live paycheck to paycheck, barely making ends meet. So we can't afford all the bills that went through and we bounce the $2 chicken nuggets and fries. Now they cost me an extra $25? Come on! We're poor enough! Give us a break, please? And that, is what really grinds my gears.

This little game....

2008-08-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

So I added this game here to the right of my profile. Well I became obsessed with it. It is so addicting! And I've even won it quite a few times. So if you haven't played it yet, check it out. You will be coming back to my blog everyday to get your fix!

I HATE CARS!

2008-08-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

So for those who don't know, when Ben and I first moved here, literally when we pulled up to his house to drop his kids off, his car died. We had to get it towed and it ended up being is fuel pump. One week and $500 later we get it back.

About 2, or so,weeks after that, my car wouldn't start. The interior light had been pumped and was left on all weekend. So the battery was shot. Did you know that even at Wally World, batteries are like $65? Rip off!

Well today, I was leaving to meet Ben to get a check for our rent. I got outside and the key less entry wouldn't work, first clue. You would've peed. I almost didn't think to use the key manually to open the door. So, I get in and turn the key, nothing. Son-of-a-;aslkdg!!!!!!Are you kidding me? I call Ben, and he comes home instead of meeting me halfway. We attempt to jump start the car, still nothing. So we're assuming its probably the alternator. At any rate, another expense. I'm so raged and DONE with car troubles.

What Really Grinds My Gears

2008-08-08T16:27:00.000-07:00

Simpson's who? It's all about the Family Guy. I have decided to start my own What Really Grinds My Gears to vent about about the things that really bug me. So for my first post:

You know what really grinds my gears, when people type/text like they're black. Here's an example:

DIz SHIz Iz FUNNY!!!! I LOV3 THiz ViD3O!!!!!!

Don't you go to school? Can you imagine them trying to get a job? RAGE! Learn some freaking grammar! And that, is what really grinds my grears.

New Video

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

So I was going through some Program Files and came across this Movie Maker. I had no idea I had it. Well, thanks to my daddy, the video master, I basically knew how to do it without reading a lot of the instructions. So this was my first experiment. ENJOY!
(Most of the pics are from the ones I posted the other day, oh well)

It's Official!

2008-08-07T20:29:00.000-07:00

Carter has been off his binky for a whole week! I snipped the tip off of it so he didn't like the feeling in his mouth. Well that night I was worried he wouldn't sleep. I couldn't find the other 2 we had just in case I became desperate at 2AM. But low and behold I couldn't find one. Which is really weird. He did fine though. He's asked for it at least once a day and I give him the cut one and he chucks at me. YEAH! No more BINKY! He was getting to the point where he was talking with it in his mouth. Um, no child of mine will be one of those kids.

Look, I'm blogging!

2008-08-05T20:56:00.001-07:00

Alrighty, where to begin. I'm so good at keeping this thing updated. I guess I'll start with July. IT'S BEEN SO FREAKING HOT! This place has been a balmy 113 degrees average with no breeze and no chance of scattered showers. Now it's the monsoon season so you add 50%plus humidity. So now all I have to do is walk to the car, or vacuum, or who am I kidding, just sit there! and I sweat! It's awesome. Here is our 4th of July pic. Never mind the lovely forklift behind us.

So on the 4th, our Ward had a little breakfast and parade. Well they started it at 7AM because its so hot you have to do things that early. Well, if you know me, you know I don't get up that early. We made it a little after 8AM, missed the flag ceremony, parade and a hot breakfast. They still had food for us though. So they had a water slide set up and Carter was dying to go down it. Here is the snap shot of him going down. it's blurry but you get the idea. It was too funny. He ended up going down 3 times.

Here are just some funny pics of Carter from the last month.

A couple weeks ago, our apartment decided to flood. A pipe from our hot water heater burst under the foundation. So they pulled up the carpet, soaked up the water, jack hammered down about 2 feet to fix the leak. We were put up in a hotel for 2 nights while they fixed the problem. It was quite the ordeal. From the night I noticed the carpet was wet to the day they finished putting the carpet down, and cleaning it, it ended up being a whole week! The only good thing that came out of it, I get to organize our bedroom better then it was, and it forced us to unpack the rest of my boxes.

My GAY child!

2008-06-26T15:46:00.000-07:00

Carter is so gay. This is his new obsession. He keeps getting these out and putting them on by himself. Classic Carter to be in his diaper, and it's saggy no less! Enjoy!

Our Wedding Day!

2008-06-20T14:53:00.001-07:00

June 5, 2008
The day started out cold and rainy. But by the time my hair was done (which Melissa and Lauren thank you!) the weather couldn't have been more perfect! We took some pics at Murray Park, before the ceremony. Yes, he saw me in my dress before I walked down the aisle! No worries I likes it.

I was having a hard time picturing the whole walking down the aisle thing so Ben and I decided to walk down together. It was kind of fun. His son Noah was our Ring "Bear" (which is what he thought it was called) and his daughter Mollie our flower girl. I wasn't going to have petals thrown before us but when she asked what she was suppose to do after she threw the petals I couldn't tell her, Oh you don't get to! So I changed my mind and they did a great job. Bishop Holley performed the ceremony and then we got to greet everyone which was fun to see all those who made it.

Dinner was a challenge. I couldn't sit in my dress very well so I looked pathetic, I'm sure! It was yummy though.

The reception was fun and everything turned out perfect! If it didn't, I didn't know about it because from my view it was beautiful. It was fun to see a lot of faces I hadn't seen in a while and nice to say goodbye. I'm still waiting for all the pics but here is a view of a few.

THANKS everyone for a wonderful wedding! I love you all and miss you!!!!

Bridals

2008-06-20T14:48:00.001-07:00

Engagement Pics!

2008-05-11T20:06:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of our Engagement Photos. It was such a windy day and my hair was out of control, but we caught some good ones.

I got it!

2008-04-03T17:58:00.000-07:00

It's official! I got to take home my wedding dress today. WAHOO! It's so pretty and I can't wait to get married in it! On a side note, I'm watching Fox 13 and they just had a clip of one of their stories tonight. Do you blog? Too funny. I try to! I just thought is was ironic that they showed that when I was actually logged on here.

P.S. No, I wasn't dancing around in my dress to the Enchanted soundtrack. I wasn't! Ok, I was. I'm just cool like that.

Just so you know...

2008-02-20T19:49:00.001-08:00

I don't really know how to add friends to my blog or reply to comments. So don't be offended if I don't reply or you're not on my list. So, Heather, help me!

Bennifer

2008-02-19T12:03:00.000-08:00

So I am the BEST at updating my blog. Obviously I've been a busy girl these last few months. Well meet Ben Hunter. He and I met in November. He lives in Gilbert, AZ so our visits have only been once a month. It's been interesting getting know someone over the phone. But it works!

On Valentines Day Ben flew out here to see me. I arrived, late no less, to pick him up from the airport. When I got there he was in a tux, handed me a rose and popped the question! I said yes, of course! We are planning on June 5th for our wedding day. I will be moving to Arizona which is a little scary but I'm excited as well. Enjoy my updated pics!

Carter's 1st Birthday!

2007-12-10T12:54:00.000-08:00

Carter turned 1 on November 18th. We celebrated his big day on Thanksgiving with his cousin Nathan, who is only 4 days younger! Carter loved the cake.
He kept looking back at me making sure he wasn't going to get in trouble for touching it.
Granny Annie spent 3 hours decorating the two Winnie the Pooh cakes just to be destroyed in minutes! Carter got a few new clothes, a popper vacuum, a Noah's Ark
Little People set and a walker/rider and various other things!
I'm in for a real treat. He's already throwing his terrible two's tantrums at 12 months!
No worries, I'll make sure he knows who's boss and that would be ME! LOVES!!!

New Job

2007-11-15T07:58:00.000-08:00

For those who don't know, I got a job at Gold's Gym working in the Child Care. I am their new Team Leader which I'm excited about. I can take Carter with me and I get a free gym membership. Both huge perks! So far I like it. At times I think I might kill myself because the kids can be quite out of control but then my shift ends and its all good. This job just kind of landed in my lap and I couldn't be more grateful for it. Thanks Lis for suggesting it!!!

Welcome to Blogger!

2007-11-09T21:24:00.001-08:00

Hello and welcome to my Blogger, or should we say the new myspace?
Love it!