The Tanners

New Blog

2010-05-23T18:50:00.000-07:00

For those who are interested in keeping up with Terra and the kids you are welcome to follow our new blog my5joys.blogspot.com.

2009-07-15T18:07:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox photobook

Kelci's 1!

2009-07-14T07:12:00.000-07:00

I can't believe you are a year old, it seems like yesterday to me still that you make your entrance. You are a happy and sweet little girl with a tender heart. You love to smile and are generally happy. You still do not have any teeth and very little hair, but are beautiful none the less. You are close to walking, but do not do it on your own yet-I can tell it will be soon though. You are loved by your brothers and get excited when you see them. You are loved by your parents very much and are a blessing to our lives. Happy Birthday Kelci!

Thanks Auntie TIff!

2009-07-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

Auntie Tiff bought me this dress and shoes and I know I look cute in them!

2009-07-07T08:50:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

The Annual Reunion

2009-07-07T08:31:00.000-07:00

Every year in July we have a family reunion at my grandparents home in Eureka, Utah. I told the kids that they could play outside until the sun went down, little did I know that it doesn't go down in Utah until almost 10PM! They played and played; riding scooters, playing in the playhouse, playing four square and ping pong and golf. They had a blast!

Finally!

2009-05-17T03:35:00.000-07:00

So sorry it has been so long since I posted. I am not even going to go into any detail right now about what our life has been like in the month since I last posted. CRAZY is all I have to say!

I will say though, that yesterday I graduated from NPC! This was a huge accomplishment and could not have been done without the people in my life who attended. They earned this degree as much as I did.

Nathan, thank you for being supportive of me and telling me everything would workout, even when I knew it wouldn't.

Tiffany and Justin, thank you for watching my kids and letting me invade you life and home for days on end the last two semesters so I could finish my all too important Geology classes. This is what had held me up from graduating sooner. Seriously, I could not have done it without you guys.

Dad, Thanks so much for being there for me during all the ups and downs along my way. I truly love you and appreciate you for all you do for me and my family. I have missed you so much since we moved. Thank you for watching my kids every semester so I could graduate.

Dad and Elaine, thank you for your love and support along the way and for making it to my graduation. Thanks for your open doors and loving arms lately as well.

Garett, thanks for coming all the way for me. It means a lot to me. I can't wait to attend yours in about a year:)

Clarissa and Gage, thanks so much for coming and helping with the children, all day in the sun! You made it possible for me to have more family in attendance to share this special time. I love you so much and enjoyed spending time with you.

Hayden, Brekyn, Tanner and Caison, thank you for sharing you home, parents, Nintendo DS's, toys and putting up with my kids so often. I really do appreciate it.

Preston, Tracen and Kelci-my own PTK! You sacrificed a lot for me to do this, I will always be appreciative. I know you really liked hanging out with GPA Garth and Aunt Tiff and Uncle Justin more than me:) I want you to know that you can do anything! I love you so much!

Words are not enough to express my gratitude for everyone who participated in helping me reach my goal. All I can say is I love you all more than you could ever know!

A Wonderful Day!

2009-04-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my brother came home from an honorable mission in Chile. It was so fun to see the excitement in his eyes and all those who came to see him home. He had not changed from his jokeful and fun self. He did however, come home with a spirit about him that anyone could see, a testimony a thousand times stronger than when he left and a love for his fellowman that had only grown.

He has turned into a fine man and a great future husband and father. I am particularly proud of him and the example that he set for me and my children. My boys have a respect and love for missionaries and look forward to the day when they get to be one. For now they just have the suit and future missionary name tag.

Thank you Heavenly Father for helping him serve well and keeping him safe until he was returned back to us.

2009-04-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

Easter-finally

2009-04-22T11:34:00.002-07:00

Our Easter was a little less planned and a little more thrown together this year. We had a really nice family home evening before hand about Christ and tried to explain to the boys what Easter was all about. They seemed to catch on and even remembered when we quizzed them later on.

We only had about 2 dozen eggs to find this year and the baskets were simple. The boys woke up at 6:15AM to see what they had been left. They had a great day and I don't think they even noticed that it was more simple.

2009-04-22T11:34:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Kelci Update

2009-04-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

Kelci is such a blessing to our family. I cannot imagine life without her. The boys love her and take good care of her. Tracen is just now starting to have a hard time. He doesn't like that she can get his toys and mess things up. Preston is the protective older brother and loves to make her smile. He will always try to get her to stop crying and loves to hold her. Nathan is wrapped around her little finger and wouldn''t have it any other way. I treasure each day with her and love to watch her grow. She is a special spirit and I am thankful Heavenly Father trusted our family with her.

2009-04-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Disneyland Trip

2009-04-22T10:47:00.000-07:00

I got some tickets to Disneyland for a good price and so we thought we would take our little family while we had the opportunity. Our kids are at the really fun age of looking up to the characters and truly believing in them. It was really sweet to watch them and their amazement. We had a great time and one day was plenty.

Nathan is very big into history and historical sites. He had found out about a guy named Hi Jolly a few months before and remembered that his grave was in Quartzsite, AZ. We had to drive through there on our way back and decided to stop by. It was not as easy as we had hoped, but we did find it and it was definitely worth it.

2009-04-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

The boy named ebay

2009-04-17T03:01:00.000-07:00

Terra sells things on ebay and does really well with it. She is a great bargain shopper and turns around and makes a good profit. So our kids will see things that she has bought and will show interest in them. Sometimes, when they are toys, they will originally think that they must be their toys. Well today we were driving in the van when Terra sees Preston pick up a toy in it's box and Terra tells him to put it down because it is for ebay. Well after hearing this about several items he askes us if he can go over to "ebay's house" to play with all the neat toys. For who knows how long, Preston has been thinking that we have been two-timing him and buying some boy named ebay all sorts of neat things and he must have been wondering why we keep buying this boy so many more toys than he gets and he hasn't even met him. The poor boy thought we were showing favoritism to a boy who doesn't even exist.

Now What

2009-04-14T06:34:00.000-07:00

So I didn't get the job-at least not right now. They want me to spend a little more time with the company-could be months or years, they didn't give me a time line yet. I was bummed, but feel like it was not meant to be since I had several people praying and hoping that we would be moving to Tucson. I guess the Lord has other plans. I guess we shall see what happens next.

My brother Garett comes home in one week! I am overly excited! He has never met Kelci and the boys were just babies really when he left. I am excited to spend time with him and see how much he has changed, as we all have a bit in two years. I am so proud of my brother and the choices that he has made throughout his life. He is a great example to me and my family. I love that my boys want to be missionaries like their uncle Garett. I can't wait for Garett to marry and give me some nieces and nephews too! Hopefully it won't be too long.

So, I am so confused on one hand about what to do to support our family, yet overjoyed with the blessing of being able to see my brother again after so long.

The Plan?

2009-04-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

So I have learned that plans do not go as planned. When Nathan and I came down to the valley for an interview for Nathan back in January-we thought that he would work and I would be staying home with the kids. I told him that I would pick up something to help us get out of debt and back on our feet. When we found out that he would have to wait a few weeks for the position to open-or so we though-we decided that I would take a little job to help until his job came through.

Lesli suggested that I go back to the restaurant business and serve. I didn't think that I would like that. Nathan asked me why I didn't want to and I gave him a long list. He told me many of my concerns would not be the case if I worked for a chain. So before we got back to AJ from Gilbert I decided that I would apply at Red Lobster, since 15% is 15% so the more expensive the restaurant, the more I would make. The third Red Lobster I called told me to come that day and bring my resume. I did and before I got back to AJ from Alma School and the US60, they had called to see if I would come back for testing and an nterview the next day. One week after walking into Red Lobster I started working there.

I found out that they were opening more locations throughout the year and there would be management opportunities in Tuscon. I was excited since my mom and the kids are moving there in July. The locations in Tuscon open in July as well. After talking to my managers I found out that as soon as I made Captain, which is sort of like a head server, I could apply for management. I made Captain on April 1st, not even two months after working there. One week later-to the day-I had my first interview for a management spot in Tuscon. I have my second interview tomorrow and hopefully will be starting the 13 week training program shortly after that. So Tuscon looks like it may be our new home-about the same time as it becomes so for my little brother and sisters.

I feel very blessed with this opportunity. I love my company and the nature of my job. I love that everyday is different and that I can move around within the restaurant doing everything from production to serving. I love the fast-paced people environment. Some days are more challenging than others, but never dull. The best part about this opportunity is that I will be making somewhere in the ballpark of 45-50 thousand. That is a big financial step for our family.

I graduate on May 16th with my AA from Northland Pioneer College and am very excited for this as well. I plan on starting my BA in July, as soon as the financial aid year starts again. This was not at all what our plan was for our family, but I think the Lord knew better than we did since Nathan wouldn't be able to get a teaching job any time in the near future here in AZ with the cuts happening now. He will continue school while being home with the kids. Not at all what we planned, but what we feel is right for our family. He is great with the kids and I am great in the corporate world-I don't think the Lord cares who does what as long as we live righteously and raise our children to be the same. I can testify that the Lord provides a way for us so long as we are willing to accept that His plan may not be our plan.

Just a few stories

2009-04-08T03:29:00.000-07:00

Alright,

Terra and I often mention how we need to write certain funny stories down or even just funny phrases or comments that people make. So tonight I have thought of a couple older stories that I feel are worthy of posting.

When I was on my mission, we went to a members house for dinner. My companion and I were chatting with the father and son about missionary stories. The father had served a mission too and so all three of us were sharing stories. The son had a question after his dad made mention of the MTC. He asked why the church would send you to an "MTC"? The father explained that the MTC was the place the missionaries would learn the discussions and any languages etc. We all began to tell stories again and a few minutes later the son, probably sixteen years of age, asked, "yeah, but why an MTC"? The dad gave some kind of explanation to his son and we began to talk again and for the third time he asked the same question. By this time we were almost frustrated by the simple question. So I used my "finding skills" to determine his struggle in understanding the MTC and it turns out he thought we were saying "empty sea". He couldn't figure out any logical reason why the church would send the missionaries to an empty sea rather than some other logical place, like a building in provo or something.

Here is another one that I hope my brother Len remembers and I hope he doesn't mind me sharing. After we had purchased our first home here in the valley, my brother Len had flown into town and came by to visit and see our new place. As He, my wife and I were walking along the path to the front door, he stops us and while pointing down at the small little cactus, asked us, "when is that palm tree going to start growing"? I wish I could tell you what kind of cactus it was, and to his defense, it did have a palmy kind of look to it.

Alright, my last one for tonight. I hope I don't offend anyone by this story. I know Amy Holly was asked to remove a post by a close friend because it made them uncomfortable. So, I hope we don't have the same friends. No, not really, but I hope everyone can laugh at the story because it is true as can be and Tiffany and some nurse in Show Low can testify. ---- A little background. when Terra was in labor with Preston, all she wanted me to do was massage her legs. It was the only time she yelled at me. I made the mistake of asking her if I was massaging hard enough and she yelled back, "don't ask me any questions!". Other than that, she was very pleasant with all three of her deliveries. Anyway, when we were at the Show Low hospital ready to start labor with Tracen. Tiffany, Terra, the very nice nurse and I were visiting amongst ourselves and I went ahead and told the story of when she yelled at me during Preston's birth but also explained that if my life depended on it, she surely couldn't find the strength to message me very strongly, because she has very weak hands. Terra confirmed this statement about her weak hands by saying "I AM a weenie rubber". The nurse turned red but tried to pretend she didn't hear it. Tiffany started laughing and then we all were laughing. I must say my wife never ceases to surprise me. I love her to death.

Quick Update

2009-04-04T23:12:00.000-07:00

So, we are a part of the online world again! I am so happy! Since the last post-we have been really busy. We took the boys to Disney Land, moved into our own apartment (Dobson and Guadalupe about), I got a promotion and had my 27th birthday and Kelci started crawling! Life is great and family is better!

On a spiritual note; I love conference and always feel so much better about life after listening to the speakers. I really loved the analogy of how building our homes on rock doesn't keep the wind and the rain away, but helps the home make it through the elements in tact. This is so true and really hit home for me at this point in my life. I also found it interesting that they spoke about wants and needs-I have really learned what I can live without recently. I have learned too how truly blessed I am and what things are really important.

Stupid Girl!

2009-03-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

I figure everyone will find out eventually, so I am just going to put it out there now, in my own words. I was on my way to work yesterday and had a few errands on my list of things to do. I thought I would head to the post office first and drop of an Ebay package. Nathan had told me there was a shorter way to go than the way I usually took. So I headed that way. I had several things on my list of things to do; remodeling the body of my Kia was not one of them.

I stopped at the first stop sign and then started to go again-no radio was going and no cell phone was in use. I turned the AC button on and my car started to chug like it always does since my O2 sensor is broken. I started coming to another crossroads, but didn't see that it had a stop sign until it was too late. I stopped, but was sticking out into the road a bit. Since my car is a stick, I couldn't just back up and since it has a delay in getting power with the O2 sensor problem, I couldn't gun it to get all the way across the street.

None of this would have been a problem accept a car was coming at that very second. I could see the car out of the peripheral of my vision. I knew I just needed to get out of the way best I could-so I gunned it as fast as I could and held on tight. After doing a 360 and sliding about 25ft into a lady's driveway, my car stopped.

I got out and checked on the other car and of course it was an elderly couple-in their 80's. The lady was driving and her husband was passenger. I kept asking them if they were okay as I called 911-he just said-"you ran the sign!" as if I didn't know there was an accident going on right then anyway. They both were just fine, but were taken to the hospital to make sure. The EMT's said everything was alright and that the vitals of both the couple were good and they would be fine-I still felt so bad and couldn't hardly not cry.

The officer was really nice that did the report. He said he runs signs over there all the time since every street West you go over has additional stop signs on roads you normally don't stop at going farther East. Anyway, I got cited, went back to the house and took a lot of ibuprofen and then got back into my newly remodeled car and went to work. The first song I heard after the accident was "Stupid Girl", how appropriate was that?!

All I can say is that I am so thankful that it was the car that was paid off and that the children were not with me and that the other couple were going to be okay. I even was able to make it to work in time and made $25 an hour! I think my Heavenly Father knew I needed a pick-me up after the days events.

My wonderful husband even went and got me a card and had all the kids sign it and wrote for them what they wanted to say. It was sweet to come home and feel loved by my family.

Here's the Damage

2009-03-07T09:36:00.000-08:00

Too Funny

2009-02-28T10:54:00.001-08:00

Julia won an essay contest in her school for writing about how you should "Stop and Think". She made this poster to go with her essay. Really cute!

Now look closely...She really has a sense of humor that can go undetected!

Sweet moments

2009-02-28T10:48:00.001-08:00

How Lucky I REALLY Am!

2009-02-25T20:27:00.000-08:00

I have been really stressed out about finances lately and what the future holds; me of little faith I suppose. Then I witnessed this.

I was headed to work today and had to stop by the post office first. Thinking it would take the usual amount of time I left thirty minutes earlier than I needed. I ended up with a lot of time left so I went and ate at Taco Bell. I decided to go in, since I needed to kill a little time.

As I sat and ate, a guy came in and asked the clerk for an application. I looked up and saw a guy who appeared to be in his late 40's to early 50's. The lady said they were all out and he left. I watched his discouraged face leave and noticed him get on a bicycle and ride away.

My heart sank for this guy. Humbled to the point of riding a bike to Taco Bell in hopes of trying to get a job there. I am struggling, for my standards, but I still have a lot to be grateful for. I have my home, not in foreclosure; enough food to eat; two cars and only one payment; renters; and a decent paying job, just to name a few.

Nathan keeps telling me to have more faith and that things will be okay. I guess since I couldn't just take his advice, I had to figure it out on my own. I seriously wanted to cry for this man-I should change my attitude and learn from this experience.

My beautiful wife with Tracen as a baby.

2009-02-23T22:11:00.000-08:00

What a sexy wife I have! I came across this picture and just had to put it on this site. This is one of my favorites. She sure loved that little guy. He was such a great cuddler and she just loved that about him. Tracen still is a pretty good cuddler. One thing that makes this one of my favorites, is because she is so proud of her little guy, and I find that very sexy. She is such a great mother to her children.

A great son

2009-02-23T21:58:00.000-08:00

By Nate Tanner

Tonight I was sitting by Preston and I told him that I am a lucky guy. He smiled at me and said "I love you dad!" Not knowing if he even knows what luck means I asked him if he knew why I am a lucky guy, just to see how he would answer. He responded by saying, "because I am a really great son." I asked him how he knew what that meant and he said that I had told him before. I truly don't remember having that conversation saying that I am really lucky because he is a great son, but I am so proud that he knows, and am actually really proud of myself that he knows that, and it's because I had told him.

I really hope my kids know all their lives that I truly am lucky because I have the greatest children in the world.

Saying Goodbye

2009-02-20T21:28:00.000-08:00

I knew this day was coming for quite sometime, I just didn't expect it to be this hard. We had a very relieving phone call on Sunday. My dad had found a supervisor working at the power plant who needed a house to rent for him and his crew. They were totally willing to pay our entire payment! They even wanted to move in the following Sunday, so we profit one week in February-which we need right now.

So tonight Nate and I have been cleaning and moving and getting everything ready for them. It was really sad to come into SJ and know that I would not be coming home again for a while. I am going to miss the post office that never has a line as long as the one in AJ; Walking into Wilbur's and have them call me by name; The excitement of small town sports and traditions; and last, but definitely not least, my home.

I have a real sadness in my heart as I leave SJ behind and move to the valley. I do feel a little like I am going home, since I am going back to AJ-where Preston was born. I know that I have been blessed and that Heavenly Father is helping my family through our economically difficult times. I do recognize His hand in my life, especially lately. I have been blessed with a great job that does not require me to be away from my children too much, but pays what we need right now. My instructors have been great working with me so I can graduate in May. My aunt and uncle's willingness to open their home to my family. The huge blessing of being relieved of my mortgage payment.

I have so much to be thankful for. I am sad to say goodbye to SJ, but look forward to what the future holds for my family.

Happy Valentine's Day Nate!

2009-02-14T09:21:00.000-08:00

Nathan,
You love to cuddle and be close,
You have to have your daily dose.
Compliments you give me freely,
I know you mean them so sincerely.
You cook and leave a mess behind,
But it taste so good that I don't mind.
Wrestling, playing, watching movies,
Talking about girls that have the cooties,
You love to watch your children grow,
You love them lots, this I know.
Sports are just a part of your being,
When our team loses you can't bear seeing.
A love of history and ancestry,
You know a lot and help teach me.
I know I don't tell you often enough,
The good times and the little more rough,
Would never be quite as much fun,
Without you as my my only one.

I love you Nathan Alton Tanner!

Update

2009-02-14T09:09:00.000-08:00

Well, we are officially in the valley now. I started work on Monday and last night was my first official non-paperwork day. I love my job! It is very fast paced and there are always new faces. I am excited for the day that I can do my own tables. I love the smell of the kitchen, it reminds me of growing up with long days at the restaurant with my dad. Thanks dad for teaching me hard work ethics and giving me experience that is useful to me still.

Nathan and Preston joined me and the little ones at my aunts house late Thursday night after 8 days of being apart. We are glad to be back together as a family. Tracen was asleep when they got home, but woke up as soon as he heard Preston's voice-eyes still closed-to play with his brother. It was really sweet to watch.

We are excited to have things working out for us finally. We really miss the White Mountains, but are planning to visit soon. This week we hope. Thanks to all who have helped us make the transition. Fellows family, we miss you and will visit soon! Happy Valentine's Day!

If You Had a Nickel...

2009-02-05T18:25:00.000-08:00

So we are doing it again-yup, moving. This time things appear to be working better. Life just never goes as you expect, at least not for us. We are going back to AJ, at least until April. My brother comes home on April 21st-yeah! So we may try and have our own place by then. Thanks for a warm and welcome place to stay Cheney Gang! It will be even more fun this time too since Diana is back!

Nathan is waiting to hear back on many jobs, but one that we are really hoping for that he has been given a hint that they may be calling in the next few weeks. I am in the last stages of interviewing for a job at Red Lobster as a server, but the pay is great and it comes with benefits from day one.

My dad will stay in our house and we will rent our other two rooms out to power plant workers to make our mortgage payment. We have gotten several calls every week from guys wanting to rent a room. This will make it possible for us to actually pay our debts back.

CAC is right behind my aunt's house and they have distance programs through NAU. Nathan can finish his teaching degree and teach at my aunt's school, where he has been subbing, and since it is a title 1 school, they will pay his student loans back. I can finish my business degree there as well.

My instructors are allowing me to do my courses on my own and email my assignments. This way I can still graduate in May. I am so excited! Life is busy right now, but I am counting down the weeks until I graduate.

I finally feel like we are starting to make headway. I just don't want to count my chickens before the eggs hatch, but I finally feel like things are working themselves out now. We shall see. Keep us in your prayers.

Cute Moments

2009-01-25T16:46:00.000-08:00

Preston picked out two of these nerf dart guns for Tracen's birthday. He loved his so much he wanted to sleep with it last night. How neat it is that children can appreciate the little things so much they want to have them by them at all times. I love the innocence of youth.

Kelci sporting Cars undies that her brothers put on her. She wore them all day that day. They were so proud. She really is going to have to learn to hold her own with them.

Sick and Tired!

2009-01-25T14:10:00.000-08:00

I am so ready for the flu season to be over! It seems like my family has been sick non-stop since Christmas Eve. I thought we were all over it this last week and then last night Kelci was up all night. She was so congested that you could hear her wheezing from across the room. She was so miserable. I felt so bad for her. She is so sweet when she is sick, all the time, but especially when she is sick. I think I will end up taking her to the doctor. She is so sweet and happy that I hate to see her this way. I can't wait for warmer weather!

Tracen Turns 3!

2009-01-25T14:02:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

needed to be said

2009-01-22T23:06:00.000-08:00

By Nate Tanner

I have often thought about the things that I would like to tell my mother if she were alive. How much I love her; the things that I appreciate about her; the things that I recognize that she has done for me in my life. Even more often I think about the questions that I would like to ask her. What was I like as a baby? What was she like as a child? I have dreamed about her being a grandmother to my children; knowing my loving wife Terra; Having my mom tell me that I am a good father is the ultimate dream that I continually have.

I miss my mom so much but something very profound always seems to seep into my mind. Am I taking advantage of the time that I have with my father? Am I spending all my time feeling sorry that I lost my mother that I am neglecting my father just to someday feel all the same regret and sorrow for the time I lost with my dad. Granted, he is a grandfather to my children and knows my wife, but when he is gone, the time that follows will be time that I will be missing him and will wish I had more time.

I know I am failing at this and maybe this should be some kind of resolution, to better take advantage of the time I have with my father and maybe even others as well.

This week my cousin was found dead and he is only in his mid 30's with young children. A very sad situation and I have already thought about how I wished that I had kept in better touch with him. He was a good guy and I would have really enjoyed to have seen him once in awhile. That is my regret right now. Well then, should I just sit back and feel sorry that I did not visit him in several years until the next tragedy and feel sorry about that one and always be behind or should I actually catch on to how this works and start making the most out of the opportunities for relationships with those that will have them with me?

If this blog is acting as a journal for my children, I want to make it clear to never let things of this world get between you and your loved ones. Don't let your pride stop you from being a brother, sister, son, daughter, friend etc. and to never forget that things are just things and don't really matter. People make mistakes and need to be forgiven, always. And to never take people for granted because you never know when they will be gone. Love unconditionally. And when you have children of your own, kiss them way too many times, hug them so much from day one, always tell them that you love them and that they are the greatest blessing to you. As your Nana would say, "don't sweat the small stuff". Always make more deposits than withdraws from their emotional bank accounts. Get on the floor and play with their toys with them. And anytime you have to punish them, tell them that you love them, sincerely.

I know this is a long post, but sometimes you feel like you just want to make sure some things are said. I do love my family so much and I hope they know that. I hope my wife can some day say that I was a good husband and that my kids never feel badly in any way about their upbringing.

I love you guys,

your daddy and husband, Nathan Tanner

Caison, come here!

2009-01-20T09:03:00.000-08:00

Tiffany finally got him! This is what he did right after getting out of the bath...
Stopped to watch "his baby" while sneakily scratching his rear.

Ran around while I tried to get a good picture of his wild hair.

He likes to be free and roam! He is so cute!

"Tracen needs help!"

2009-01-20T08:56:00.000-08:00

I was on the phone with Tiffany last night and the boy were playing together. I hear Tracen start screaming, but wasn't in any real hurry to help him since his dad was in the other room. The boys come out to where I am and Preston is trying to get my attention while Tracen is continuing to scream. Preston then comes over and starts to shake me until I look at Tracen. This is what I saw-only he was not happy (until he saw that I was taking his picture). I couldn't stop laughing at him-how he did this I don't know. He is naked from the waist down-I guess he had Saphyre's underwear on before this-Preston used to do this too-cross dress. I think they will be okay when they are older, I hope.

Snapshots of the kids

2009-01-20T08:01:00.000-08:00

Preston wanted his picture taken with his special key to his treasure box (our fireproof safe).

Tracen got all dressed up for church! He even has a "tag" on, tie in case you were wondering. This is my favorite sweater on him because it is as colorful as he is.

Brekyn and Preston taking turns on her pink Nintendo DS. They are really sweet together!

Preston put the bib on Kelci backwards so she could be a super hero! She has no chance with two brothers.

Brekyn was so proud of Kelci for doing push-ups, she even put this cute headband on her, but it looks more like a sweatband than a headband. Aren't they so sweet!

Kelci anxious to crawl!

The girls in their matching dresses. I was so excited to find these in both their sizes!

Kelci hangin' out with her rescuer, Grandpa! She loves her cuddle time with him every night.

Kelci playing in her saucer-these are some of my favorite pictures of all my kids-playing with the colorful toys in this saucer.

"I did it all by myself"

2009-01-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

Tracen is now potty trained! My life the last couple of weeks has been full of rushed trips to the bathroom, wet bathroom floors (not water), stinky excitement and pee pee dancing. The other day Tracen attempted to poop-all by himself. I went into the bathroom and found him washing his hands when he was all done. He was so proud of himself. However, he had not wiped and when he pulled his pants up his super runny discharge was coming out of his pants and had been smeard all up his back. I wanted to take a picture and post it, but thought it would be too innappropriate. I had to bathe him and change his clothes, while trying to explain to him that he did a great job, but mommy needs to help him wipe still. He has been so funny to potty train! He is fully trained now, but still sleeps in diaper (with undies on top) until I think I am ready to attempt diaper free nights. The excitement of raising children never ends!

Kids Say the Darndest Things

2009-01-17T08:13:00.000-08:00

Nathan and I have been keeping a list of the cute things that the boys say. Here are just a few:

"My eyes are drowning"-Tracen. Translation=his eyes were watering, had a heck of a time figuring that one out.

"These shoes make me stink?"-Tracen. I had told him to get a different pair of shoes because he didn't want socks on and I didn't want his new shoes to get stinky. He came back to me with an old hand-me-down pair and said that. He is so funny!

"Spiderman is on the case"-Tracen He was outside in his Spiderman shirt and kept saying this over and over to himself while riding his bike.

Tracen calls our dog "Lady Rex Tanner"

Preston introduces the neighbor girl to my dad as "Natalie Tanner"

"I have to go poop and I don't have time"-Preston. Translation=I have diarreah!

"My bum bum hurts"-Tracen. Translation=I need to poop.

"I am never going potty in my bathroom again"-Preston. After someone stunk it up really badly.

The worst thing my kids say regularly, that is really pretty funny at times, "Crybaby, wah, wah, wah."

The sweetest thing they say regularly, "I love you more than that" after someone tells them they love them.

2009-01-11T07:56:00.000-08:00

Preston went shopping with me the day after New Years-we were both super sick and only went to get groceries, but then mom found lots of stuff for Ebay and ended up taking a really long time. He was such a good sport, never complaining or getting into thins, just sitting in the cart covered with stuff waiting for mom to finish shopping. We did make a mad dash to the bathroom four times for him while we were there-poor kid, but he was so good. He asked me if he could get a snake-I never thought that 88 cent snake would keep him entertained as long as it did. He even put it in a seat belt in the van and named it "Snake Tanner".

The snake looks real in this picture Preston took.

Kelci just hanging out on the floor. She is so easy going-I love it!

Tracen put these antlers on Kelci one day, they looked so cute I had to take a picture. Tracen is really good about sharing with Kelci-he loves to bring her toys, blankets, and food. He will even make her bottles of water and try to feed her. He is a great big brother!

Feeding Time

2009-01-11T07:47:00.000-08:00

Kelci is now on solids! I wanted to nurse only for the first year and my dr. laughed at me. He said he has never seen an American woman nurse without supplementing for a whole year. He told me to go as long as I could and we would reevaluate at each appointment to see how Kelci was doing. She was throwing up a lot in the last week and so I took her in to the dr. We decided that since she was not sleeping so well at night and her weight gain was just "okay" that we would introduce solids to her diet.

She caught on to eating quicker than my boys, she is not great at it yet, but way easier than Tracen for sure. She loves to eat! These pictures were taken by Preston since mom was feeding her.

"Preston the Builder"

2009-01-11T07:36:00.001-08:00

Preston building a bird house on the front porch. He really badly wanted to use his tools and mom didn't want him putting nails or holes into the walls in the house. We settled on using a piece of wood outside. He is definitely related to his grandpas! He said to me in this picture, "How do I hold the nails and the hammer with these gloves?" They are a little big if you couldn't tell.

He looks like he should be in a commercial-with his shirt off and his six pack!

This was right after he got his new tool belt and all his tools. He loves the gloves!

Preston's View

2009-01-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

Preston asks to take pictures-a lot. He takes better pictures than I do sometimes. These are some of my favorite shots from the last photo shoot he did. I love to see the world through his lens, it is so sweet.

2009-01-09T18:46:00.000-08:00

Tracen just got down on the floor with Kelci and was playing with her, making her laugh and kissing her. The next thing I see was this-I had to take a picture. He really loves her, but can be rough with her if you couldn't tell. He really does love his "Kelci Pooh".

Kelci playing with hangers that mom left on the floor while I was listing things on ebay. She is so good while I do this, she just lays on the floor next to me and as long as she is not wet, poopy, hungry or tired will just lay there and play.

Wiskers

2009-01-09T18:43:00.000-08:00

Kelci has just begun to grab things in the last couple of weeks. She loves to grab grandpa's beard and won't let go. She is getting to be so playful and squeals so loudly that I could hear her outside the other night. She is generally happy and so fun. We love her!

Potty Training

2009-01-09T18:27:00.000-08:00

This is Tracen potty training-finally! He puts his own underwear on, thus the reason they are on backwards. He loves to do the "pee, pee dance" when he is done and have everyone make a big deal about the fact that he went. Whatever works! Can you tell he is related to Mazie with one cheek out?! Poor kid, a few days after he started potty training he got the stomach flu and had really bad diarreah. He had to sleep in a diaper and even ended up wearing one most of the time for a while, but would still go potty in the toilet when he could. He has been a really good sport about the whole thing. I am really glad to have him potty trained, for the most part now.

My Grandparents

2008-12-29T17:15:00.000-08:00

I love my grandparents so much. They are such good people and serve so many, anyone they are aware of. They raised seven kids, all who love to return home for visits. That is something to be proud of, I hope my kids will want to come home when they grow up too. The pictures below are just a few of the good memories and things that I love to see when I visit my grandparents. They love their family and make sure they display that love all through their home.

Memories of Gpa and Gma's

2008-12-29T16:08:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Christmas 2008

2008-12-29T15:46:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

2008-12-19T09:12:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

2008-12-19T08:06:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

2008-12-19T07:59:00.000-08:00

So I am busy putting more things on Ebay this morning when Preston comes up to me and asks if he can have the camera. I tell him no and he says, "Mom, I need to take a picture of my clothes." I told him yes since he asked and I thought it would be a good lesson to teach him that if he asks, he may get to use it. He brings it right back and this is what I found. Do you think I do too much Ebay? Notice he got his foot in the picture:)

Preston not so innocent

2008-12-17T14:09:00.001-08:00

I saw the handsome picture my wife put on this site of Preston in his suit. I thought I would explain what happened after that photo was taken that day. Terra, Tracen and Kelci were sick that day, so Preston and I went to church alone.

Mind you, he has a button in his tie that when pushed it sings some Christmas song. He happened to struggle in his class, he has decided to be shy all of the sudden and so for the first time, I took him to my Elders quorum and I happened to be teaching the lesson. We were packed for that class. We had tons of visitors etc. Preston was horrible, he kept pushing that button on his tie, he kept laughing and moving around, talking.(funny how he is shy in his class but not with all the adults). Devin was trying to help me out by trying to control him. I found out after class that Preston actually bit Devin's finger, I was so upset. I couldn't hardly threaten Preston like I wanted to because of all the people. At one point I called him up and ripped the button out of his tie. Let's just say that it was the worst lesson I ever taught. I couldn't focus, I was embarrassed. It was horrible. He is generally a great kid, but he is definitely not as innocent anymore. He got punished real good when we got home. I don't think he will do that again.

OMGoodness how they grow!

2008-12-16T13:43:00.000-08:00

I came across this picture when I was looking for my favorite saucer picture of Preston. I can't believe how little they all are. It is so fun to see them grow! They sure are cute!

Kelci's Turn

2008-12-16T13:16:00.000-08:00

Some of my favorite photos of my children are in this little saucer-I couldn't find my favorite one of Preston. Now it is Kelci's turn. She loves being in it, just because she is standing and not lying down. She is so much fun and can't wait to grow up and play with her brothers. She just started rolling over both ways a lot in the last week-I hate it. She scoots everywhere and is trying to sit up-I want her to wait a bit before she does this. She talks a lot-squeals mostly. She is really a happy baby most of the time and a joy to our family.

How Handsome

2008-12-16T13:12:00.000-08:00

How handsome and grown-up does he look now?! I miss my little innocent baby:)

Proud-not mad

2008-12-10T22:34:00.000-08:00

I went to put Tracen to bed tonite and saw this written on the door. It says "Preston" if you couldn't tell. I normally would have been mad that he vandalized the door, but he wrote his name so straight and nice. I was so proud I had to take a picture and put it on here to share. He doesn't know that I loved it-Nate noticed and was proud too. I love kids-some days can be hard, but I know I will miss the hard days when my kids are gone and will give anything to have them back.

How Sweet

2008-12-10T21:15:00.000-08:00

Preston took this picture of Kelci while she was swinging-thus the reason half her head is gone.

Kelci was laying on the floor by me this morning. I had told Preston to go get clothes to get dressed for school. He came back and started to get dressed and then started playing with Kelci (a four year old attention span leaves a little to be desired). He was so cute that I motioned to Nate to take pictures since the camera was right next to him. At one point he started singing the Tiny Tim song. This was seriously a super sweet moment for me to witness.

Perfect Present

2008-12-10T21:10:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help but take this picture this morning. I had decided to get a Leapster for Tracen's birthday and just got it in the mail today. I looked down while I was on the computer and saw Tracen playing with Preston's. He was so cute-he had no idea what to do, but loved pushing the buttons and feeling like one of the big kids. He will be so excited when he opens it on his birthday!

What a surprise!

2008-12-10T20:49:00.000-08:00

When we woke up on Monday morning, we had a nice surprise...SNOW! The boys were so excited that they wanted to go right outside, in their pajamas at 7AM. I made them wait a little while, but when my dad left for work-I couldn't keep them in any longer. I did manage to get boots and coats on them before they ran out the door.

Notice Tracen's coat is huge-guess it will be put up for next winter since it reaches his knees.

Preston is explaining to Tracen right this moment that he can't eat the snow-"huh mom." Notice that in the first photo he has snow on his face from eating it though. They always know the rules when it comes to telling their siblings what to do, but conveniently forget when they do it. I don't really care, unless it is yellow snow, but don't tell them that. Like dad says, "they'll only do it once."

He realized I was taking pictures of him-so he decided to pose for me-he is so sweet!

Kelci's Earrings

2008-12-09T08:18:00.000-08:00

So I could not wait to pierce Kelci's ears. I thought I would wait until she was like five or so, until I saw Kali's ears. They were way too cute! I decided to do her ears before I got Christmas pictures taken. SO Friday was the big day. Tiffany and I went together and Tiffany actually picked and paid for them and even held Kelci while they were doing it. This was Tiff's Christmas gift to Kelci-one that will last forever. Since Tiffany and Kelci have the same birthstone, that is what she chose-very sweet. They look adorable! I am so glad I did them; now she looks like a girl without a bow on.

O Christmas Tree

2008-12-08T07:39:00.000-08:00

Tanner, Preston, Brekyn and Tracen with Santa at the Concho Holiday Bizzar

Preston being goofy!

Tracen was so excited about the lights, the tree, and of course his Santa hat. I love that kid!

The boys loved decorating our tree this year-Nate bought a real one this year. It smells so wonderful and looks even better. All the ornaments are bunched together at a 3 and 4 year old's level, but it still looks great!

"You told me I could"

2008-12-07T18:19:00.000-08:00

We were given a huge sheetcake the other day with green and orange frosting. Preston wanted a piece so badly. I told him he could have some after school. A long time after school I see him coming out of the bathroom. He tells me he just washed his hands-he was proud of himself. Then I wonder why he needed to wash his hands. Then I smell cake!

I went into the kitchen and found the cake-just like it is in the picture. I said, "Preston, what are you doing?!"' He says to me, "you told me I could have a piece after school." This was his piece! It was like a sixth of the cake! Before you ask-he did not get to eat the whole thing. We all shared it; Preston, me, Tracen and the dog.

P.S. I am still cleaning up green and orange frosting from various places in my home. Life is going to be boring after my kids leave home:)

Growing up Princess

2008-12-07T18:13:00.002-08:00

Kelci will be five months in one week. Time has really flown by. She is so sweet and loved by many. She is a really good baby; only cries when she is hungry or messy. She sleeps through the night every night now. Thank you princess. She is rolling everywhere-she rolled all the way across the living room the other day. She is trying to hard to grow up. She tries to sit up and grab things. I just wish she would stay little for a long time. I really love this stage. She is my pride and joy. I love to dress her up and get all girly with her. She is amazing and I thank my Heavenly Father for loaning her to me.

2008-12-07T18:13:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

About time-again

2008-12-07T17:38:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was fun and relaxing. The night before I had taken Hayden, Tanner and Brekyn home so Tiff and Justin could get things ready for company. We had lots of fun videotaping the kids playing football. Then we watched family videos of all of them, including the football. They loved seeing themselves on TV. I need to do that more often. The next morning Brekyn and I made cinnamon rolls, eggs and sausage.

We had a really nice Thanksgiving dinner that my dad made-Tiff and Justin did the turkey-but he made pies, rolls and homemade yams for Justin and his parents. We visited for a while and then were all in bed by ten thirty-just after making our list for the shopping early the next day.

Tiff and I got up at 3:30AM to go shopping and were hard at it for about nine hours. Our legs were sore for days afterward. We spent about six hours between Lowe's and Home Depot-can you believe it! We bought everything, including the kitchen sink-literally (thanks for the joke Tiff). We really did buy a sink for Tiff's kitchen.

It was a great holiday! I can't wait to see what Christmas brings. Children make the holidays so much more fun-family makes it even better!

2008-12-07T17:37:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox photobook

What a Relief!

2008-12-03T20:56:00.000-08:00

With life stressful most of the time, I have really learned to appreciate the little things. Monday morning I called to pay my electric bill and it had been paid and had $118 credit. Later that day my aunt called and said they needed Nate to sub a couple days this week. To top it off, I went to check my mail and found out my house payment went down $40 something a month. I could not believe all the good things happening.

Yesterday, I got a call from Preston's school. They said they finally had an opening for him and he could start right then. HE was so excited-I was too! I did not know what to do with the time I had while the two little ones were sleeping. I did homework-can you believe it. I am almost done with all my classes-one final and a few little things left. Can't wait to be done!

Happy Turkey Day!

2008-11-26T22:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! While staying at my aunt's house I discovered my seven year old cousin, Mazie's journal. I came upon it while cleaning up and did not know what it was until I read the open page. At the top of the page was written, "How many time I said thank you today." Tally marks followed. It was so sweet that I had to show my aunt.

This was a great lesson to me to recognize my many blessings and the things that I am thankful for, and to remember to give thanks to my Heavenly Father for my blessings. I have a desire to write letters to the many people who have contributed to my life for the better. The problem is, I get a letter written and then add someone else and my list never gets any smaller.

I suppose that is a good thing, at least it means that I recognize others to be thankful for. I truly have many blessings in my life and the most important of those are people. I hope that I will remember my blessings more than my trials in the coming days. I love life, family and this beautiful holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving!

Fun Times

2008-11-26T22:13:00.000-08:00

Occasionally Nathan will get a burst of energy and be able to wrestle the kids for a long time. This was one of those times-he went for a while and did not even complain about his back hurting later. You will see why his back may have hurt after seeing the photos. The kids really enjoy times like these and I am glad I had the camera ready. Thanks Nate!

2008-11-26T21:52:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Halloween-I Know It's Late

2008-11-26T21:49:00.000-08:00

I finally got my pics downloaded and could post them-better late than never. We had a good Halloween. We went to Licanos with my mom for her birthday dinner and then off to trick or treat. We met Tiffany and Justin and the kids. Nate and Justin went home with the babies while Tiff and I took the others. My mom and Mike and the kids came along. After doing the door to door thing, I can appreciate the Trunk or Treat more.

2008-11-26T21:41:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Our 7th Anniversary

2008-11-22T08:39:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is our seventh anniversary-amazing. I used to think that people who were married for ten years were so old and had been married forever. Seven years went by so fast, I regret feeling that way. I also am amazed at how much we are still learning about each other and maturing as time goes on.

Nathan got a hotel room for us tonight and made arrangements for our children-all on his own. This was really sweet-he surprised me-sort of. He still had to clear a couple of things with me, but I was so happy to see he had wanted to do something sweet for me. It will be nice to spend time with only my husband and remember what he is like-without all the distractions.

I really love my husband and all his little quirks. He twirls his hair, loves to laugh, loves to cuddle, likes extra mayo on his sandwiches, likes his underwear rolled-not folded, likes his toothbrush on the left side of the holder, loves basketball, loves St. Johns, loves his mom, loves his children, and treasures me.

He is a simple man and enjoys life's simple pleasures. He has really made me appreciate the little things in life. I am a better person because of him. He recognized potential in me that I did not know I possessed. I am truly grateful for him. I love you Nathan Alton Tanner! Thank you for loving me.

Here We Go Again

2008-11-22T08:21:00.000-08:00

Okay, so now we really have everything situated. We are back in St. Johns, I know, how many times are things going to change with us. We are glad to be home and in our own environment. So this is how it all happened.

We came up on Tuesday to take care of some things in St. Johns and so I could go to school. While we were in St. Johns Nathan took his certificate for substituting into the school district and talked to the head of security person at SRP.

The school called him the same day and asked him if he would be willing to start subbing as soon as the week of Thanksgiving. The guy at SRP said that there are new projects starting soon and he would be looking for more help and would be in touch. Between working with my dad and subbing, Nate will be able to take care of us.

A big deciding factor for us was that Preston will be able to start school next week. He has really been wanting to go to school again. He was on a waiting list in the valley and we didn't know when he would be able to start. He is really excited!

We are thinking of turning our garage into an apartment and renting it out. We would be able to get quite a bit since we would include utilities. My dad would help us do the remodeling-he is a really handy man. This would make things financially easier and we could stay in St. Johns. This is just an idea, but we will see what happens. If Nate can pay the bills without doing this, we would prefer it. We just have to see how much work he will be getting.

Nathan's dad always says that there are many ways to do the right thing-or something like that. Being in St. Johns looks like it will work out for us now, but the valley would have too. As long as we are taking care of our responsibilities as parents and trying to better ourselves, I guess it doesn't matter where we are. There are people to serve where ever we are. As long as we are serving others we are serving the Lord and the Lord will provide for us.

Life in motion!

2008-11-15T19:45:00.000-08:00

It has been really crazy lately in the life of the Tanner family. We have been everywhere lately. The kids are wondering why we have so many houses-inconsistency has been our only consistent thing lately. We still don't really know what our plan is.

We are currently living with my aunt and uncle in Apache Junction. Nathan has been substituting at a charter school here and I have been trying to help out as much as I can with household duties. I will be traveling back and forth to Show Low until my semester at NPC ends. Tiff and Justin have been so good to watch the kids and let us stay there when we need.

The bishop of our ward in AJ offered Nate a job with his company as an in-home care provider. It doesn't pay much, but has benefits. He is awaiting a call from the HR department now. In the meantime, he is keeping his resume active and is constantly trying to find work in the White Mountains.

I do have to admit that I feel like we are in the right place at the right time. My uncle is out of work at the moment so this is a fix for both families for the time being. My aunt and uncle are also really good at keeping the Spirit in their home and that is reflected in my childrens' behavior and my patience with them.

We really enjoy spending time with their family and are very appreciative of all they are doing for us during this difficult time in our life. My testimony has really been tried during these last couple of months. I love to think of President Monson's talk on the morning session of the Saturday conference that just passed. He said "Never let a problem to be solved be more important than a person to be loved." I think that is so perfect for my life right now. I also have been thinking about the quote the feed store in St. Johns has up occassionally that says "Faults are thick when love is thin."

Financial stress can be hard on a marriage, but I am trying to keep these things in mind. I want to take advantage of the time that we have as a family right now and make positive memories. You never know when the last day you spend together is going to be. I want to end my life knowing that I told my husband and children that I love them. Everything else does not matter.

I went to the temple last night and for the first time realized that Adam and Eve had strength unimaginable to us in today's society. Adam partook of the forbidden fruit to stay with his wife and fulfill the commandment that the Lord had given him to "multiply and replenish the earth." He stood by his wife's side after she went against the Lord's counsel. Marriage is and always has been a sacred covenant. I am blessed to only have financial struggles with my husband as our major issue and not something as serious as Adam was dealing with.

I have been thinking lately aobut the Depression and what the divorce rate was during this time. I am sure it was much lower than our rate now, even when the economy is booming. I guess that I am trying to say that my testimony about marriage has been strengthened. Financial stress is not an excuse to let your marriage fail. I know this and know that the Lord will bless my family if I exercise my faith in my Savior. I am thankful for all my many blessings and especially for my husband.

Veterans Day

2008-11-11T10:02:00.000-08:00

I just got back from taking my children to the parade in AJ this morning. I have never been to a parade on Veterans Day-sadly. I have many relatives who have served in the military, including my brother Garett and my father-in-law.

As I was waiting for the parade to start, many older people came to sit by us. Many of the men were veterans themselves and were wearing clothing to represent themselves. It was really neat to see them all come out.

The parade started with three jets flying overhead-low and loud (sorry Kelci). The boys were so excited! It was really neat to watch their excitement. I started to get emotional at this point and it was all down hill from there.

Leading the parade were soldiers-vets-carrying the flags. Everyone stood with their hands over their hearts as the flags passed, but what was really touching was the veterans saluted when they passed. It was the neatest thing to witness men from all different branches,scattered in the crowd, simultaneously saluting the flag.

I started thinking about the turnout present at the parade. Although it was a large crowd, it was no where near the crowds I have seen on the 4th of July. A sadness and a truth hit me as I thought about this. If it weren't for veterans, there would be no 4th of July.

I decided today that I will always make sure my children attend Veterans Day events to teach them the importance of the people who make our freedom possible. I was so impressed with all those in the crowd who would thank the veterans. I want my children to grow up with a respect for these people.

It was so refreshing to see support,regardless of political party, for our country and those who have made it what it is today. I am proud of my family who have done this as well. There was a float of wounded vets that passed with the crowd standing and thanking them. It was a beautiful site to see. To any who have served, thank you. To any who have died, you are not forgotten. To my children, I am proud to be an American!

My bakers dozen list of why I love my wife Terra. By Nathan Tanner

2008-11-09T15:14:00.000-08:00

She loves the Lord more than anything, including more than she loves me and I love that about her. The Lord should be everyone’s first love.
She is always concerned about other people and their well-being, even those that she doesn’t know. She is truly a Good Samaritan.
She wants to be the best mother and is. She is always relating things to the gospel when teaching our children.
She is super smart. Very intelligent! She is a great problem solver because of it. I am in love with her mind. Unfortunately for her, because of that attribute, I rely on her making most of the decisions, and that is one of the things that is on her “13 things that she does NOT love about me” list.
She is very spiritual and really wants a husband who is too. I hope to grant her that wish someday.
She is beautiful! And I love that she is beautiful even without makeup.
She has some really quirky things that I love about her too. For instance: She is scared of all the water drying up, scared of our drought to death almost; She stays scared after scary movies, kind of like back in Jr. High; The way she rocks side to side when she is nervous (okay, that one I only love when I am not around it); The way she jumps out of her skin when you walk into the room and say something. You can walk in as loud as you can and it still startles her.
I love how she wants to have lots of kids, and even has a desire to do foster care, and even adopt. She really wants to bless children’s lives.
I love that her political beliefs are based on her social conservatism. That her moral beliefs shape her political choices. And that she and I almost always agree politically.
I love that her testimony is built upon the feelings of the Spirit and not based upon the teachings of man. She knows how to confirm her beliefs based on the Spirit and not on blind faith.
I love that she is a small town girl with small town values. She doesn’t have to have expensive things. She is just a humble person who looks for ways to help out where she can.
That when she has had jobs, she has always been at the top in her field. Like when she was in the top 5 in sales for Carnival Cruise Lines, or when she was one of the tops on her team, which always battled the top teams for first in for the University of Phoenix. She is a sales person, as long as she believes in the product.
That she chose to love and believe in someone like me. I love her with all my heart. She is a wonderful woman. I hope she never questions my love.

The Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-26T11:22:00.000-07:00

Auntie Tiff kept Tracen for me for a couple of days while I went to the valley. She was going to the Pumpkin Patch with Justin's mom and took Tracen. He loved it and talked about it for a long time. He is still talking about it. Thank you for the memory Auntie Tiffy!

Yuck!

2008-10-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

Uncle Justin went dove hunting and let the boys help him clean them and gut them. Preston loved it-Tracen, not as much. Preston has been talking about killing birds, specifically owls, since. Justin and Nathan are so good at letting the kids be a part of things I would never think they could handle.

Softie Uncle Justin

2008-10-26T11:07:00.000-07:00

Tiffany emailed me this photo from when she was watching Kelci for me so I could go to school. Kelci was crying and all of a sudden started calming down. She went to check on her and this is what she found.

Sisters

2008-10-26T10:03:00.000-07:00

I just saw the article on the Arizona Republic's front page of their website about the Neilsons that were burned in the plane crash here it town. I know many people keep up with the blogs or have heard the story on the news or one of the TV shows who have done segments on this family. Lorri, my sister-in-law was friends with this family when they lived in New Jersey.

As I read this story my heart began to ache with happiness. listening to these sisters and their love for one another makes me miss my own sister, who has been gone for eight and a half years. When I hear them say that aside from their husband, they would want their sister by their side, I can relate. I remember sharing a bedroom with my sister, who was only fifteen months older than me. I remember playing dumb little games at night when we were supposed to be sleeping. I remember having heart to heart talks with each other.

I remember, often, her telling me to learn from her mistakes and take advantage of the lessons that she learned the hard way. She knew that she needed to make better choices and she wanted the best for me. I remember seeing her for the last time. She had a Mountain Dew and Cap'n Crunch for breakfast that morning.

I had gone to Utah to visit and had met her in West Valley to hang out for a while. I headed back to Eureka to stay one more night with my grandma. I was disappointed that I had come all the way from Arizona to visit and had not gotten to spend as much time with her as I wanted-how selfish I was.

I woke up the next morning to see her car parked in the driveway. She had come up to see me one last time. I was so happy, but not sure I made this as clear to her as she deserved. I suppose she wanted to see me again too. We had shared so much in life; happiness, pain and life's lessons.

I miss her lots and think of her more often than that. I know she would be a great aunt to my children-I know how she was as a sister. I feel her presence in my life still. Though I do not see her, I know she is there. When my babies smile and I can't see what is making them happy, I know it is her or their Nana that are taking precious moments away from angel work to connect with my children.

Speaking of Nana, I thought of the fun that my sister-in-laws had with their mom. When the article talks about the sisters and their mom laying on Stephanie's guest bed, teasing and hanging out, I think of Nana and her girls. I know from them, how sweet and loving she was.

I encourage anyone who loves someone to read the article found here http://www.azcentral.com/community/mesa/articles/2008/10/26/20081026sisters1026a1.html and cherish the special moments they shared with that person. While these people are gone, their are people still in your lives that need you just as much-or more. Make more memories with them and spread the love you have inside.

Kelci's first time sick

2008-10-25T23:26:00.000-07:00

Today Kelci has been sick. She is so miserable. She just wants held and won't eat much. She has goopy eyes and sounds all stuffy. Daddy finally got her to feel better a bit. She fell asleep on him after he gave her medicine. When she went to bed tonight he had a heater, warm humidifier and a color changing thing all in her room to make her comfortable. He is such a great daddy-especially when someone is sick. He remembers mom getting him sprite at the gas station any time he was sick. She must have taken good care of him when he was sick because he does for others now. These pictures were after Kelci had medicine.

2008-10-25T23:25:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Glad I had my camera

2008-10-25T23:00:00.000-07:00

I was waiting for Tiffany to get a letter ready for me to drop off at the post office in Show Low on my way home. Kelci was fussy so I went and got her situated in the van. When I came back into the house I found Justin wrestling on the floor with the kids. I thought it was so cute that I just stood there watching. I then realized that I had my camera in the van. I ran out to get it, but figured he would be done when I got back. He was still wrestling with them when I got back and continued for a long time. The kids were loving it. He did not know I was taking pictures, at least for a little while. This was a really sweet memory I am sure the kids will treasure.

2008-10-25T22:59:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

A Wonderful Gpa

2008-10-25T22:31:00.000-07:00

My dad is so sweet and good with my kids. Whenever he stays at our house he always makes Preston's favorite breakfast-French toast. He will even let Preston and the others help flip the French toast over when it is time. He plays games with the kids and takes them to the park. He and Tracen are pretty good buddies. Tracen will choose Gpa over mommy a lot. He has a special bond with him. I will catch my dad holding Kelci whenever he gets a chance. He is so sweet and gentle with her. These are a few photos I snatched a couple of weeks ago.

2008-10-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Rough Day

2008-10-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

What a day! I have officially decided that I do not want to teach for a career. I enjoy some aspects of teaching, but do not want to deal with all the other stuff that goes a long with it. I feel like I can be a good mom or a good teacher, but think it would be difficult to do both at this point in my life. I have always wanted to be in business and think I am going to pursue that avenue instead.

Life has been so crazy lately. We are now not renting our home to the family we were planning on. Things just were going in a direction that was not good for us in the long run. I hope things will work out. We will be down in the valley as of Monday the 27th. I can't believe it. I have so many mixed emotions right now about everything.

The more time goes on the more I realize that I do not have a plan for life. I have a lot of wants and needs and recognize my blessings and hope for the best. I love my life and my family no matter what. I really treasure the time that I have with them and hope to be granted much more time in the future. I know my Heavenly Father loves me and wants what is best for me.

I am excited for my new adventure and am learning to go with the flow and recognize good things when they happen. I am blessed to have such supportive and loving people in my life and willing to serve me and my family. To everyone in my life-thank you for all you do. I really love and appreciate you all! You are what makes this time in my life bearable.

Humbled

2008-10-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened in the last week in our lives. Last Saturday I called my Aunt Annette in Apache Junction. I was calling to see if she knew of any jobs that Nathan could apply for down there and if he could stay with her family while he worked if he did find anything down there. She was more than an answer to our prayers. She said that the school she works at needs subs really badly and that other schools in the area do too. They pay almost twice what St Johns does a day. She and my uncle were more than willing to allow our family to stay with them.

To top it off, we had found a family that we really like that was interested in renting our home. We will still pay a portion of our mortgage,but trust them and feel really good about them. They will move in on the first most likely.

It seems as if a week ago nothing was falling into place. Now things are moving along, but in a different direction then I ever imagined. Nathan is still waiting to hear back on a job in St Johns, we are hoping he gets it. But now we have a plan for whatever happens.

I paid four times the amount I usually do on fast offerings last time. I heard that the more you pay the more financially related blessings you will receive. I was really beginning to wonder-not enough faith I am afraid to say. But I am pleased to see the Lord's hand in my life-even if it is opening a different door than I thought.

Leaving makes me sad and I will miss so many things I love so much-people too. But going someplace familiar with people that we love is comforting. We are so blessed!

Simple Truths

2008-10-07T08:50:00.001-07:00

I really enjoyed conference, there was so much said that helped put me at ease with the world right now. I hate election time because it is so doom and gloom all the time. The world is made to look like it is coming to an end and that party is the only one who can save it. Conference really put things in perspective for me. Follow the commandments and that is all you need to do because you can't control what happens tomorrow.

I enjoyed many talks immensely. I love to listen to Monson and loved when he said "do not let a problem to be solved get in the way of someone to be loved." I think that is how he said it-I did write it down. I loved this so much because I really have been thinking a lot about how time flies and we need to just enjoy one another.

I liked the talk in the last session about testimonies and how they are constantly growing and that we do not need to have one "special" experience to prove the gospel without a shadow of a doubt to us. Simple truths.

There were so many good talks this time. I think the older I get the more I get out of conference. I love to have the Spirit in my home for those two days so strongly. It really does make a difference. I love that I feel like I can be a better person after listening to conference. I love the simple parts of the speakers lives that they share and prove to us that they are just as human as we are. It encourages me to do better and try harder.

Anyway, I just really enjoyed the words they shared to help us all. I hope that I can put their ideas and testimonies into action in my life and grow closer to my Father in Heaven.

A bad time to toot

2008-10-05T23:36:00.000-07:00

via videosift.com

Picasa Web Albums - Nathan - 7-31-08

2008-10-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

Picasa Web Albums - Nathan - 7-31-08

Friends

2008-10-04T10:24:00.000-07:00

Last night I said goodbye to a great friend. It got me thinking a lot about people who impact our lives. There are those people that you feel refreshed and charged to take on life after visiting and then there are those that drain you. This friend was the first of the two for me.

She made me want to be a better person in every capacity; wife, mother, friend, daughter and sister. She is a great example of patience and love. She has a very positive outlook on life and a strong testimony. She is a great mom, I love watching her with her kids. My favorite thing about her is she appreciates the little things in life. Things her kids say and do, flowers, small town life and so on.

I hope that when I die people will remember me this way. I want my children to remember me smiling and enjoying life. I want to treasure every cute thing my children say and do. I want to be remembered as a happy person overall. Life is too short to take "forgranite" a little geology joke here:)

So to this friend and her new journey in life-GOOD LUCK! I can't wait to have you home again. I know that people where you are going are blessed to have you and your good heart. Come back often, but enjoy your new home. Thank you for your friendship and influence.

Substituting

2008-10-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

It was really a lot of fun! I was really amazed at how much I enjoyed it. I think I really would like to teach. I definitely enjoy the older kids-no more preschool for me. The kids were really pretty good for me. I tried to lay down the rules first and then let them enjoy themselves when their work was done. It helped that I knew quite a few of the kids too. I am excited to substitute again.

Nathan is famous with the kids at the middle school too. They really seem to enjoy him, and he doesn't hardly interact with them at all yet. I think he will be a great teacher. One of the kids in class yesterday was a little girl Nate taught in primary years ago. She really liked him as a teacher. I overheard her little friend tell her she thought Nate was cute when she was little. I thought that was so sweet.

Family History

2008-10-04T10:11:00.000-07:00

We went to visit Dad and Elaine last night and Dad had just gotten some old slides turned into photos. He was really excited to share them with us. His memory was not super great with some of them, but he did know quite a bit of the information. He has such a cute way of explaining things, he is so literal. I have learned from my grandmother that you should never waste an opportunity to get family history. So we started writing what Dad would say about each photo on the back so we would have some sort of a record. The following slide show is in his own words.

Some Tanner Family Photos

2008-10-04T10:09:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Missing Them

2008-10-02T21:34:00.000-07:00

I have an opportunity to substitute teach tomorrow and we could use the money right now especially, so I took it. I am excited, but nervous. I am teaching the 8th grade math class for Mrs. Reynolds. I was really hoping to start out with a younger age, but this will be fun-I hope.

Nathan is still waiting for his fingerprint card to come back so he can send off for his substituting certificate. He interviews tomorrow for a local position that would allow us to stay here and keep our home. We are afraid to get our hopes up for anything right now and are just thankful for what work has come our way.

I am doing okay with the thought of teaching tomorrow, but have struggled being away from my children-Kelci especially. I have never left anyone of my children at such a young age. I know that I will see them tomorrow, they are staying the night at my mom's. I know they will be taken care of, but I feel like a part of me is missing.

I do not know how parents can handle being away from their children on a regular basis and can't imagine how difficult sending them to a daycare with lots of other children would be. I have been fortunate that my children have been able to go with family who love them and will take good care of them. I still miss them though.

Preston told me today that I am a good mom. I was so happy to hear that from him. He is really a sweet child. Even if he does sneak up from his nap and take pictures with my digital camera. He did not know yet that I had found the camera when he said to me "Mom, I think our camera has legs and maybe even arms, but it ran away." He makes me laugh. He took pictures of the things he loves. His batman shoes, batman trick-or-treating bucket that Auntie Tiffy bought him and his inflatable SpongeBob Daddy got him at the fake circus(that is another story).

My children have brought so much happiness to my life that I can hardly remember what life was like without them. I never thought my heart could hold so much love. I truly am amazed at the miracle of life and love. I try and think about how Heavenly Father must feel about all of his children and I cannot even begin to comprehend it. I have such a different perspective of the Atonement after becoming a mother. I can never question my Heavenly Father's love for me after he allowed his Son to go through such heartache and misery so that I could have a second chance.

Fun Times

2008-09-28T12:41:00.000-07:00

I love living in a small town! I love that there is almost always something going on and that the community is so good about supporting one another's events. I love the 24th of July celebration, the high school sports and the County Fair!

This year we went on the night of the wristbands (flat fee for as many rides as you want)night. Tiffany and Justin came that day too so we could take all the kids together. They all had a great time!

Nathan couldn't go that night, so we went again on Saturday. He and Preston enjoyed a few rides together that day. We love to go and visit with everyone there. We ran into a few people we had not seen in a while. We look forward to the fair every year.