St. Lucia Trip!

As usual, I took way to many pictures! Below are a few, but I think I am going to have to make a slide show to do the trip justice. It was BEAUTIFUL! We had a great week!!

Valentine's night. What a romantic scene. I had to take a picture, because I am not sure we could ever top this for Valentines Day!

This is just outside on the patio of our room. It was nice to walk outside and be so close to the beach.

We got to ride a zip line through the rain forest. It was incredible!!

Niel can actually call himself a sailor. We tore up the ocean and didn't even get eaten by sharks!

WARNING! Do not eat the street food unless it is completely fried and fried again. Poor Wayne got so sick.

The actual Black Pearl!. This was the ship they used in Pirates of the Caribbean.

The beauty on the Island was breath-taking!

This was the waterfall they used when filming Romancing the Stone.

The homes the people lived in were not so good. It was interesting to view other's lifestyles and be grateful we live in America.

We are banana experts now. The main source of income on the Island is tourism, but the second is their banana production. Did you know, a banana is first an herb, then a vegetable and finally a fruit. I got to taste a banana while in veggie form and it tasted like a potato. Very interesting!

The view were spectacular. The Island is 25 miles long and 15 miles wide. There were beaches everywhere!

Happy Valentine's Day!

We have Valentine's tradition. Every year we make cupcakes!! My favorite part is eating them!!

President Gordon B. Hinckley

I found this tribute and really enjoyed it. The prophet passed away over a week ago, and it has been a week of pondering for me. What an incredible man he was! His teaching and words will leave a lasting impression on my life. I will truly miss his words of wisdom, spiritual strength, and his kind example.




Some wonderful words to live by...

"Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he has been robbed. The fact is that most putts don’t drop, most beef is tough, most children grow up to be just like people, most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration, and most jobs are more often dull than otherwise. Life is just like an old time rail journey ... delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride." -- Gordon B. Hinckley

“Under the plan of heaven, the husband and the wife walk side by side as companions, neither one ahead of the other, but a daughter of God and a son of God walking side by side. Let your families be families of love and peace and happiness. Gather your children around you and have your family home evenings, teach your children the ways of the Lord, read to them from the scriptures, and let them come to know the great truths of the eternal gospel as set forth in these words of the Almighty.” --Gordon B. Hinckley

“Faith in something greater than ourselves enables us to do what we have said we'll do, to press forward when we are tired or hurt or afraid, to keep going when the challenge seems overwhelming and the course is entirely uncertain.” -- Gordon B. Hinckley

"The time has come for us to stand a little taller, to lift our eyes and stretch our minds to a greater comprehension and understanding of the grand millennial mission of this The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is a season to be strong. It is a time to move forward without hesitation, knowing well the meaning, the breadth, and the importance of our mission. It is a time to do what is right regardless of the consequences that might follow. It is a time to be found keeping the commandments. It is a season to reach out with kindness and love to those in distress and to those who are wandering in darkness and pain. It is a time to be considerate and good, decent and courteous toward one another in all of our relationships. In other words, to become more Christlike." -- Gordon B. Hinckley

"Do the best you can. And remember that the greatest asset you have in this world is those children who you've brought into the world, and for whose nurture and care you're responsible." -- Gordon B. Hinckley

WARM San Diego

This is me... on the beach! All the pictures I currently have, we are bundled up in coats, boots, gloves, hats, and even hand warmers. It is sooooo cold here in Utah. I went to San Diego a few weeks ago, in the middle of January, and I walked on the beach... barefoot! That's right!!
I also didn't even have to wear a coat. And, we ate dinner.... OUTSIDE! The best part was, I got to visit with Deanna and meet her new husband Mat. It was a really great night! I think I might move to San Diego for a the rest of the winter...ha!

Winter Stuff

We love going to the cabin. It is even more fun when cousins are there!!

There was this really steep hill the kids enjoyed tubing down! There was a big bump at the bottom! Garrett and Scott are just about to fall out!

Stockton loved the big steep hill too! Whoo!!

Grandpa was so nice. He would stand at the top of the hill and push everyone down. Then he would drive down to the bottom and pick everyone up on the 4 wheeler!

Oscarson Mountain is the greatest hill to sleigh down. Here is Conner going VERY fast!

Zander does sledding a little different. He rides UP the hill on the sleigh and rides down the hill on the 4 wheeler. He loves it that way, and is completely happy!!

Matthew is only 5 years old. He is the youngest little guy to go down the hill by himself. Stockton helped him down a few times, riding together, but Matt went down a few more times all by himself!

It snowed and snowed and then snowed some more. The best part about sleighing is, it just can't snow enough. But that is only if it isn't too cold outside. It was a perfect day!

Garrett has the longest tongue I have ever seen. This picture doesn't even do it justice.... it is long! He is catching some snowflakes from the sky.... delicious!!

We had a great time! I love spending time with the kids making those lasting memories!

Never Talk to Strangers

As a parent, we drill the words, "Never talk to strangers" into our children's little minds from the moment we are sure they will understand. I remember as a child, my parents teaching me. It is a parents worst nightmare for their child to be taken by a stranger and never returned again. So, what would you do if your children were ever in a situation where they have to actually use this words?
Last night, at about 7:00, Conner, Megan, and Garrett went outside to take Rockie a walk around the neighborhood. Garrett is a speedy little guy. He was out in front of Megan and Conner by quit a ways. He turned a corner and was out of site. Conner was on his electric scooter, and Megan had the dog. Once Garrett got out of site, the two older ones decided to hurry it up. Conner turned up the scooter to catch up to his littler brother, telling Megan to catch up as soon as she could. When Conner turned the corner, he saw Garrett talking to a teen-age boy.... a stranger. He grew a little anxious and scooted over quickly to Garrett. The young man was out of his car with the trunk open. He was talking right to Garrett. As Conner got up closer, the young man turned to him and said, "Do you want some candy?" Conner replied with "No!" The boy asked again, "Do you want some gum?" Again, Conner said, "No!" By this time, Megan had joined the group. The young man asked her if she wanted some candy. She replied "No" as well. The kids grabbed Garrett and started to walk off. The young man said, "Come here. I can give you a ride anywhere you want." They kept saying "No!" As they were walking he said, "Are you sure you don't want some candy? It tastes really good." They kept walking. As they walked away from the situation, they realized that Garrett had taken some gum from him. Garrett also said the young man told him he was going to pick him up and put him in the trunk of his car. YICKS! They were very freaked out and came right home.
They told us the story. We were pretty freaked out, but very proud of them for saying "No" and getting home quickly. My thoughts were the young man was probably just playing a mean trick, but still, that was very mean trick to play on some young kids. Plus, it if wasn't a trick, I figured I should report it. So, we called the police. I made the report and they sent a police officer over to question the kids. Both Megan and Conner explained what happened. They were pretty good with descriptions. They told Officer Doyle the car was old and red. The young man was wearing a gray coat and looked like he had just been snowboarding or skiing. They knew what street they were on and the approximate location where the incident happened. Office Doyle was very proud of Megan, Conner and Garrett for having a great memory, but also for doing the right thing. Niel and I were both proud of them, and also very relieved they all came home.
The thought has gone through my mind many times, "Why did Garrett take the gum?" I am fairly certain that if this young man had been an actual kidnapper, Garrett would be gone and I would be telling a far worse story. I am extremely grateful both Megan and Conner were there with him. I am glad for their example of safety and how they handled the situation. This reminded me how quickly something can happen. Who would have known a walk around the block with the dog could turn out to be so dangerous. We live in a really nice, safe neighborhood. I am not saying something would have happened, but there is always that possibility that something could happen. This is something I don't ever want to have happen to our little family, or anyone for that matter. The point is, they made it home safely, which we are extremely grateful. We are also a little more careful and will continue to preach the words, "Never talk to strangers."

So gross!

We are in the process of training Rockstar, our newest four legged family member. He is a great dog, as a matter of fact, his only issue is the potty training. We let him outside during the day, but once he is inside he feels it is time to do his thing in his certain areas throughout the house. It is frustrating! One of his spots is right next to our dresser in our bedroom. It is easy to see when he poops (sorry for graphic), but harder to tell when he pee's. As of the past few days, Rocky seems to be doing better, but we still have to keep on eye on him and check the regular spots frequently. GROSS!

My Cooking

Finding me slaving away in the kitchen is a rarity. It isn't because I don't want to do it or that I am not a good cook. The reason for my lack of home cooked meals is because my children are super picky. If you know me well, you might be laughing right now. It is a fact, the kids have gotten their picky-ness from me. Yes, I think being a picky eater is hereditary. I guess with that said, I really can't say too much about them not eating the food I work so hard to prepare. But poor Niel, he is used to his mom's delicious cooking.
Tonight, I decided to take a chance and make something other than out of the box food. Everyone in the family likes chicken, bacon, and everyone except for Conner likes cheese. So, I made stuffed chicken with cheese (light on the cheese for Conner) mixed with a few spices, wrapped in bacon.... cooked in chicken broth. Delicious.... right? Then, I made a pizza type bread stick, again, who doesn't like pizza? I cooked up some spaghetti with meat sauce to add a nice finish. I figured I was pretty safe with this menu, and I knew the extra effort would be appreciated by Niel.
Here were the responses, "I think this has cheese in it. I don't like cheese." "Do I really have to eat it all?" "This looks weird. It smells like carpet." "I ate a little of everything, can I be done?" If you ask me, it tasted delicious. But of course, I was the one who cooked it.
All my efforts were worth it though. Niel said he liked it. And, he kept telling me how delicious it was over and over. I think he was just glad he didn't have to eat another dinner of mac and cheese casserole or roman noodles....laugh!

The Challenge - Niel's side

Ok, so before I get in big trouble with all of Amy's friends, I have to clear something up. Amy does look fantastic, I didn't make the challenge because I thought she needed to look better. In fact we are about to go out on a date and she is wearing the same outfit she wore on the night we first kissed...and all I can say is she looks even better now. (Alright, hopefully that will get me out of any hot water.)

Amy and I were just talking about eating healthier. We both have our weaknesses, hers is Sugar, mine is fast food. I pick up fast food all the time, because it's convenient and I don't want to bother with anything else. So my challenge to her is skipping sweets, her challenge to me is skipping fast food.

It's Burger Supreme I'd miss. Plus, it just takes planning ahead so I don't stop for food just because it's there.

Do you really think I could go without fast food for a year? Would it be harder to skip sugar or fast food? I guess it depends on the person. But maybe this time next year we will both be healthier.

Sugar High?

I love reading other people's blog's on various thoughts and daily happenings. I think I mostly just like to post pictures with little commentaries. A friend of mine asked me the other day, tell me what you are thinking. Write in your blog some of your thoughts. Hum.... that could kind of be scary at times....haha! So, I thought I would post a little something, so bare with me.
Niel and I like to place bets against each other on various things. Our favorite family show is The Amazing Race. We decided to have a little fun with it and bet on a pair we thought would stay on the show the longest. I happen to be quit the reality show guesser, and won that one. Or to see who can race down the winter hill on sleighs, or who can win the most games of Speed, Niel wins those ones frequently. Anyway, that gives you a little idea of what some of our bets are like. We are very competitive.
Niel thought we should up the bet quit a bit. He suggested I try to go an entire year without refined, or the bad kinds of sugar. YICKS! I am not one to be a chicken and not take the bet, but giving up sugar?? ... that's like giving up on eating all together! I love sugar, and even though I know I could do a lot better on my consumption of the tasty stuff, I am not sure I can really do it. This would mean, no more hot chocolate in the mornings, no desserts, no ice cream (this one will be a hard one on those emotional days), no more chocolate chip cookies... and even worse, no more Brisa's at Los Hermanos or Ice Cream pie at Wingers. I might just die! I know, I know... I am sure I won't die, but honestly, this could be a really difficult, life changing eating habit of mine that I love so much. So... I guess I am wondering what your thoughts are? What would you recommend? I haven't committed to this challenge nor have I turned it down. I still have $30 worth of Cold Stone gift certificates to use up before I even think of signing onto this crazy bet for a year. Am I crazy? Tell me your thoughts!!

Sweet Caroline

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year 2008! I have a feeling this is going to be a good year!

Niel had a great time bringing in the New Year. He started the year off by taking on really hard fall. He slipped on the stairs which were super icy. His head hit hard onto the ground. He only suffered mild brain damage!

Zander rode on the 4 wheelers the entire time. He would switch off, ride the red one, then ride the green one. He had a blast and didn't want to come in when it was time to warm up!

Garrett's first time down the BIG, long hill all by himself. What a brave little guy!

Yeah! He made it down, safe and sound!

"Ready! Get set!! GO!!!" Marsha heading down the long hill!!

Dave, Josh and Taylor taking a ride up to the top of Oscarson Mountain!

Here comes Stockton, Garrett and Conner! Watch out!!

Merry Christmas!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

This was the first year we were able to spend Christmas all together as a family. We only have the kids every other Christmas. As you can imagine, we were super busy. We were suppose to spend Christmas Eve with Niel's sister and her family. However, the roads were too bad to drive up to Ogden and we got a late start. So, we went to the grocery store and bought some steaks... YUM! After our delicious dinner, the kids put on the nativity scene. It was super cute. We got to bed at a reasonable time. We woke up extremely early as we had plans to go to Grandma and Grandpa Dean's house for our traditional Christmas breakfast. We were up by 6:00 am to do Santa stuff. The kids were excited and happy. They must have been pretty good this past year. We got to breakfast just in time to see Grandpa before he had to head to work. We spent a good part of the morning at Grandma's house with her and Aunt Ang, Uncle Pat and Arianna. We sure do miss them!! We left their house to take a quick nap before heading to see "Alvin and the Chipmunks!" The kids loved the show. After the movie, we ran home to pick up the dog and headed to Grandma and Grandpa J's for their traditional Christmas hike. It was cold outside! The kids enjoyed it. They even saw some deer and elk. We ate Roast Beef Sandwiches for dinner and then headed back home. The kids were finally able to play with some of their presents. All and all, it was a great day! One of the best Christmas's ever!!

Ice Skating!

Garrett did really well skating too... especially with his age. As long as someone would hold onto his had for balance, he wasn't afraid to skate quick and fast. He looked better than some of the adults on the ice. He is thinking he might want to sign up for Hockey.


"No Way! I am not getting on that ice!" Zander liked to wear his skates, but absolutely refused to get on the ice in them.


Grandma and Arianna came skating with us too. Grandma was so nice to hold our hands and help us keep our balance so we wouldn't fall down.


Conner was an excellent skater and had a great time! He fell down a few times, but hopped right back up!


Stocks is a very determined skater. He never gave up, even with all the falls!! I was very proud of him for sticking with it, and even more happy he had such a good time!


Yicks! Are are starting to fall down!! HELP us !!!!



Isn't this just the cutest picture of Brooke and Brynlee? It was so much fun having them there!

Zander's stage fright!

Zander had his very first Christmas singing performance with his pre-schoold class. We all were very excited to go as this would be the first outward performance for him. It was his moment to shine. But wouldn't you know it, he got stage fright. He didn't even sing a note, except for when Santa came out. Then he got a little worried Santa would see him not singing. Look at his face when Santa takes a look at him! Too funny!!

Christmas Traditions

My favorite part of this holiday season is all the wonderful Christmas traditions we have in our family.

Our tree is decorated with ornaments that are hand made... well, about 95% of the tree is decorated with handmade ornaments. Even ones from when I was a little girl. This year we made jingle bell reindeer. They turned out really cute! We even put our tree up early.... the weekend before Thanksgiving! It got us in the Christmas spirit just a little earlier this year!



The temple lights were beautiful this year! We rode up on Trax's to Salt Lake. The kids always enjoy the exciting ride! The weather was perfect! Just chilly enough to remind us that it is Christmas time, but not so cold that we were freezing our little bottoms off. There weren't many people out that night because of the storm earlier in the day. Light crowds are a big plus for me! We did stand in line for over an hour for dinner. Even worse then standing in line for so long was the fact that it was McDonald's. There is a lot of construction going on in downtown Salt Lake, so there weren't many options for dinner to choose from. The kids were all very patient and good though... and ate those delicious hamburger faster then I have ever seen them eat!!









Ho! Ho! Ho!! We love to visit Santa. This year, Grandma and Grandpa took us to Albertson's. They had a great Santa!! He was holly and jolly. We got to see Grandpa at work. We didn't have to wait in any long crazy lines, and we could take as many pictures as we wanted and didn't have to pay for any pictures!! I think visiting Santa at Albertson's might become a regular Christmas tradition!







One of my favorite things to do with the kids, is spending a night decorating gingerbread houses! I wonder if it is all the candy that I love or watching the kids be creative and see what they are going to make!!




Zander had a great time with his Gingerbread house. He dumped as much candy onto his sweet creation as possible It was his first year doing his very own. He did a pretty good job and enjoyed using his creative imagination!

Guess who I met?

Today I went to the temple. I was sitting in the lobby waiting for Melanie and Jonathan. I was slightly early. There was many things to watch... young, happy couples getting married. A family with two older boys getting sealed together. A bunch of young 12 year old boys coming out, just finishing up baptisms for the dead. I was sitting back, watching it all. Everyone so happy, which is why I like to just sit and watch at the temple.... everyone is filled with happy smiles.
As I was sitting there, President Monson walked out of the temple. I looked at him for a while, watching him, trying to figure out if it was really him. Then he spoke, and I knew it was him. He was walking around to all the people, shacking hands and asking for names. He had a comment every now and again and even a few stories. It was very intriguing to watch. I love this man! He has been around since I was a child, and I have loved hearing his messages since I can remember. I was hoping for a chance to get to shake his hands, but wasn't sure if he would have time to get around to everyone. I got on my feet and made my way over to where he was. I figured it was a once in a lifetime chance to really meet a man like him. After all, I am 31 years old and haven't run into that kind of opportunity yet. As he came around to me, I was getting a little excited! I could feel the spirit about him and even got a little teary eyed. He stopped right in front of me. I extended my hand out to give him a shake. I have been known to have a firm hand shake, and I think being a little nervous, I tend to be even a little more firm. He shook my hand and I introduced myself. "Well Sister Oscarson, that is one strong hand shake you have there. That is good. It is a sign of confidence. I also see you have a dimple. This is good too. I used to have one in my day. Did you know, I hear it is a sign of intelligence." I just smiled and said, "I will have to remember that." He smiled at me and moved on down the line. Continuing to meet everyone there. All were anxious to shake his hand. It was an incredible experience. One I will not forget. I was glad I got there early!

A new addition!

Amy, Niel, Conner, Megan, Stockton, Garrett and Zander would like to announce the addition to our Family. Rockstar, or Rocky, is the newest, smallest member of our little family. What a furry little ball of quiet he is. He rarely makes a peep, and when he does it is because he is lonely and wants a little attention. He is very cuddly and loves to be scratched on his tummy. He is even almost potty trained... yeah! We adopted Rocky from a woman who had passed away. She had many dogs, but kept them in kennels most of their lives. Rocky enjoys being out and about. When we first brought him home, he wasn't sure what to do with all the roaming freedom, but he is getting used to it and I think he even likes us.... yes, he even likes Zander and Zander loves him. He has won all our hearts, even Niel's. He sure is a beautiful addition.