Jacob, Denae, and Isaac

Run Forrest, Run!!

2011-10-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

I've decided to hit the pavement. Yes, I never thought I could do it, but I am going to run a half marathon in a couple weeks. I first would like to blame my old walking partner, Molly, who moved to Cali (without me) and so I started being desperate to keep in shape. Second, Joci, for "pumping me up" saying that I could do it! She texted me daily until I signed up;) and Thirdly, Jake for telling me that, "Wow, Denae, you are looking skinny!) If that doesn't give a girl motivation, Im not sure what could!! Putting all blame aside (because I actually adore all the blamees :) I feel great! On Saturday I ran 9.5 miles and wanted to go longer... I was thinking to myself while running thoughts like... "Am I seriously doing this?" and "Man, no wonder people love to run!"

So I am really excited to run it. It is called the Halloween Half Marathon and it is October 29th. I am just hoping to finish.... but at the same time want to beat everyone and finish first place haha!Right??!!

It is time

2011-09-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

It is time to update our blog! I thought that I would show what we have been doing over the summer. As with anyone with little ones.. we pretty much do what he wants to do! And have a great time at it of course! With a kid, I feel like more social circles open up. One due to Isaac always having to be in the middle of any and everything. We are outside constantly... Im starting to call it, "park hopping." So if there is any cool parks we need to hit please let us know ;-) Isaacs favorite things to do is run, not walk... play with his cousins, go to the aquarium, go to Airborne (a trampoline place), go on walks/jogs, he loved the beach house, and watch little einsteins. He starting to like barney and sesame street but usually ends up back to little einsteins.... i love it. He is getting to know things in picture books. Thanks to little einsteins, he knows what a violin is and points to it when asked. Its adorable. He is also learning to talk!

Jake is over half way done with his MBA. He went through the summer and we both agree that it is a burnout to go through the summer... but to be done early is just so so tempting. Plus he would be able to stay with the group he started with. He will graduate in May of next year. One exciting thing that happened is that he is now officially part owner in Utah Truffles! YUM. He worked really hard at getting all the logistics together for it. Im really proud of him.

Now to me... I am really enjoying being a mom. I really had a great summer and am continuing to love the fall season. Utah is my favorite in the fall. My mom and I have started a little side business this summer (details to be revealed soon) and I am loving to get to know her better. We laugh a lot and have a great time. This year has flown by!! Its almost October!

Oils Oils Everywhere

2011-05-19T13:35:00.001-07:00

I have grown up with oils. My mom, since I was a wee baren, has used oils. I am not talking about vegetable oil or coconut oil, but essential oils such as lavender, melaleuca, peppermint. The tradition has stayed with me. Those smells remind me of my mom and her love for me. I remember using the oils on my mission and getting way homesick. Now as a mother myself, I find myself calling my mom and asking, Isaac has this or Isaac has that... what oils should I use??? As I have studied it and used the oils more, I have become fascinated. This stuff is cool. Way cool. Oils not only can help an ailing child but with issues such as migraines, muscle aches, infertility, morning sickness, warts (yes, warts), to water purification and weightloss. In fact, my mom has lost 7 pounds (not any that were needed and yes it makes me jealous that she is skinner than I). I actually have lost 3, but Im still breastfeeding and am not watching my diet to much. My mom has felt the need to give back to her community, and has started having classes at her house every Wednesday night to teach about oils and their functions. I go every time just to learn more about it. I constantly am thinking about it.... its like oils oils everywhere for me right now. I've had to make a conscious effort to stop talking about it to my walking partner due to the fact that I think she might whack me upside the head one day and say, "Enough Already!!" Im Sorryyyy!! Anyways, if it is something that interests you come and over and listen to my mom, the oil queen, fix life's problems.... but beware.. then you too might start to see oils oils everywhere!!

Family pics check

2011-05-03T19:55:00.000-07:00

These are a few samples of the pictures we took at Fotofly for Isaac's one year. I hated every second of it, but its done. We did it. We got some really cute pics. Check.

Isaac completes one year

2011-03-11T17:55:00.000-08:00

Really?? I cant believe it has been a year! I would say that this year has been the biggest growth for me, personally. Being a mom has made me a better person. It has opened my eyes to a different level. It has made me want to be a more kind person, and more helpful to others. My biggest accomplishment would have to be how deep I have learned to love. For Isaac, I would say he has determination. Never say never for this guy... crawl.. sure, why not? Walk.. sure, if I have to. This kid is always on the go! He is such a joy in our lives, but really where did he come from? A good friend of ours asked, "Jake, who is your stepson?!" Haha. Orange hair, green- eyed asian baby. Why not?? For Jake, let's just say I think the shock has finally worn off. He loves being a dad. I remember when I was pregnant, he would say, " I can't wait until I come home from work, and my son runs to the door and says, "Daddy!"" Isaac freaks when his papa gets home. Shrieking, laughing, holding his hands out.... so so cute!! I just feel so blessed. For his birthday, we just had a quiet party. I was so excited for him to dig into the cupcakes I bought... Oh no.. He was not having it. He hated it. No cupcakes mom, no pictures mom, no singing mom, no smiling... so funny. We were dying. We love you Izzy!

Happy Holidays

2010-12-28T15:54:00.000-08:00

Isaac is just shy of 10 months. We are excited to go into a new year! This one has been difficult at times, but looking back I've noticed that I have grown so much!! (I'm not just talking weight he he) Cheers to the New Year!!

This and That

2010-10-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics of what we have been doing this summer. We basically have been hanging out! Isaac is almost 7 months! His favorite color is red. He is now eating some solids. He hates avocados, watermelon and rolls. He loves bananas, peaches and apples. He is so close to crawling!! He loves to jump and chew on bath toys. But most above all he loves to flirt!! Look out ladies!!

Jealous?

2010-06-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, ladies, you may look but not touch... these guys are all mine :) Hope everyone is doing well! Smooches!

Thanks Friend

2010-05-19T10:20:00.000-07:00

Its amazing what great friendships you can make starting even in middle school. Yes, I would like to give a shout out to all my fellow Crescent View Viking friends. I would start naming you all but what if I forget one? That would be embarrasing and lets admit rude..... so you know who you are :) But one friend that I really want to say a big "Thank You" to is to my friend, Miriam. She took pictures of my boy to get a start on her hobby in photography. She did a fantastic job. Thanks so much friend!! Smooches!

My Little Bear

2010-04-12T12:36:00.000-07:00

Folks, this is only the beginnings of the now hundreds of pictures I have taken of my little bear! He is the sweetest thing! I love being a mom. Believe it or not, this guy belongs to us! It is amazing to see him grow. I feel so blessed. He is eating well, sleeping well, pooping with the grunts and still peeing on me! He has a fire hose out to get anyone who changes his diaper!!
So I tried to take pictures of him to avoid going to get them done professionally..... My best friend is coming into town Friday... she makes everything beautiful.. maybe I can get her to take some good ones and add to my pod of pics.

Isaac says, " Wuz up Guys, Wuz up!"

2010-03-24T16:39:00.000-07:00

Isaac Inouye Cavanaugh was born March 9, 2010 at 6:55 pm at Great Expectations Birthing Center. He was 5 pounds and 15 ounces and was 18 1/2 inches long. We did a water birth, and no Jake did not bring his snorkel gear!! It was the neatest experience. In all, I was in active labor from about 1pm to his birth. I birthed the majority of it in a cool Korean tub that holds about 100 gallons of water. Jake was my doula, and Rebecca Williams was my midwife.
At about 3 am on the 9th, I had, what I know now, were contractions. I was thinking that they were brackston hicks. We called our midwife, she said if I couldn't talk through them, that I should come in. At this point, Jake was debating whether to go in to work. We had carpenters downstairs that were constantly knocking at our door. Jake finally broke down and told them that his wife was in labor, and not to disturb us..... hahahaha..... we finally headed to the birthing center. At this point, I thought my midwife would say, "Denae, you are a whimp. Go home and come back when you are really in labor." But to my surprise, I was in active labor and had a baby 5 hours later. It is such a blur in my mind now, but all I know is that I have a new found respect for any woman that goes natural!! Holy Cow Ladies... we are amazing!
So now Jake, Isaac and I are one big happy family. We feel so blessed to have a healthy son. WE ARE PARENTS PEOPLE! We love him so much. Jake has been so good with him, and to me. I feel just so grateful and lucky!
Thanks to everyone that was so supportive during this time with phone calls, texts, emails, dinners and love. Thanks to the Cavanaugh family for cleaning my entire house! And a special shout out to my best friend for coming from Idaho and spending 4 days with me. You are amazing girl!!!

I love my birthdays, every one!

2010-03-02T14:39:00.000-08:00

So the Gabrielsen clan decided to have cake and ice cream on my birthday to celebrate my big 27! This year, to be honest, I was anticipating my birthday because it made me closer to my due date. It was a really relaxing day! Jake gave me the most thoughtful gifts. He gave me a new robe, a gift certificate to Carter's, and a jogging stroller. Yes, the BOB folks. I miss running! Jake is really so sweet to me. We were talking about how much we enjoy one anothers' company. There is nothing better than coming home from a hard days work and hanging out with the spouse :) He also took me to Olive Garden for one of my favorite meals.... Ravioli Portibello yum yum with salad and breadsticks. Then up to my parents for fudge cake and vanilla ice cream and more thoughtful gifts... I got a Martinelli bottle... "the bubbly" and peachies. Oh and my mom gave me a jetted tub for my downstairs...Moms are the best! Thanks fam and friends for making my birthday special... I love my birthdays, every one of them!!

Expiration Dates

2010-02-24T09:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I am officially the last Gabrielsen girl of the four who were pregnant together, to have a baby. Whitney, Sam's wife, had little Preslie Jo on February 9th. So Adorable!! So as the time is winding down for me... only 3 weeks left ladies... I am having only one request... can my baby look just like my hubby! I just want a little boy that is just like him! So little man... listen up and do as you are told :) So March 18th is 40 weeks. My mom said she was two days over for her first.. Saren was 12 days over.... We will have to see. I am so excited to meet this little guy. As I am looking at expiration dates now... like eggs, milk, sour cream... they are surpassing my due date. Very very awesome folks! And a big THANK YOU for all the support in baby showers, gifts and love! We appreciate it so much! Smooches!
Oh and maybe one other request... Can I be as skinny as Saren after I have our little one.... mind you I am only asking for 20 pounds under my pre-pregnancy weight... not a lot to ask right?!!

Will I be pregnant forever??

2010-01-20T10:23:00.000-08:00

This is me around 30 weeks.... Hanna got this cute jacket for Christmas.. I almost stole it until I tried it on and found that no it does not fit.. ha ha.
We went to Idaho this weekend with Kylee. It was so fun to see family and friends. We ate a lot of food and played a lot of BONANZA. In fact.. Jake and I have played it every night before going to bed since then. We were talking about our favorite beans... who does that? We do!! and were having the best time!!! We are still looking forward to having Isaac in our lives. Jake always comments that it still hasn't hit him yet... well it has hit me. My ribs are killing right now!! I asked Jake last night if a knife was stuck in one of my ribs... not fun :) But Bonanza, a diet coke, a heating pad and Jake to make me laugh helps the time pass. Will I be pregnant forever????

It's All Good Baby

2009-12-24T09:15:00.000-08:00

I took this picture for Kristie since she hasn't seen me since I started "poking out." Pregnancy has been one of the weirdest things for me. Now people will ask what I'm having and when I am due... telling the boss was so fun, as well, I might add. He called me into his office and started out like this.... no joking... "Um, I don't usually ask women this but....... are you pregnant???" I said, "yes." He said, " Oh good because if you weren't, that is really embarrassing!" Ha, Ha... so I've put on a little weight. Moke told me the other day my butt and my arms are fat. I was dying laughing... little kids just tell it how it is!!! We cannot wait for our little man to be here. His latest thing is trying to bust out of my stomach with the head butt ninja kick. It hurts!!!
We just finished our Hypnobabies class. It was a six week long program that was awesome. I learned so much about my body, and how amazing the whole pregnancy/birthing experience is. Jake and I liked the class, as well, because it is super bonding. The class ended this past Monday and Jake declared it as, "The Best Christmas Present Ever." Ha ha!! Even though it was an exceptional class... Jake and 3 hours of talking about babies\birthing got very interesting. He brought up all sort of different topics to circumcision to perineal massage to lactation. Jake and the instructor made such good friends, that she is framing him a Hypnobabies Certificate for graduating the class.
Today I just entered into my third trimester! It is so weird because looking back, I can say that I could do this again, but while I was in my first trimester, Jake and I were contemplating having only one child :) I feel so blessed to be able to pregnant, even with all of its trials.

It's a Boy!!

2009-09-21T17:11:00.000-07:00

We went to Fetal Fotos over the weekend, and had a really good experience. We found out that we are having a baby boy, and that everything looks super healthy! We went to my midwife this afternoon for my regular check up, and had her inspect the pictures. She said they looked great. It is so fun to see how fast he is growing. My midwife said that it is usually longer for first time moms to feel the baby move because we chalk it up to gas or cramps. I thought that was funny. So if I start complaining of those symptoms maybe just suggest to me it is my baby moving:) I honestly thought I was having a girl, but I did dream about having a boy...... I am just super happy that we are having a healthy baby, and Jake got the boy he wanted. He did call it from day one:) He said he wants a boy so he can build forts and play sports with?? Ha Ha

My eggo is preggo

2009-09-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

So I have realized that being pregnant is different than I thought. My brother, Troy, was funny about it when he said, " I thought you would be the strongest of all the girls!" HA HA. I am a wimp!! Being nauseous all the time is not my forte!!! But this is exciting! I'm excited. Jake is excited! I am coming up on 13 weeks, and my midwife says everything looks great!! Thanks for everyone's love and support!

BaBy NoAh

2009-09-03T15:00:00.001-07:00

Baby Noah is the cutest baby!! From the time I met him, I knew that I would spoil this kid. He was a big kid to start out with and keeps on gaining. He has gotten a little colicky, but Saren has been doing really well with him. We have been walking in the mornings with this little guy, and just hanging out. He is starting to wake up a little bit more. I'm pretty sure his first word will be, "Nae Nae."

Yuba What??

2009-07-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

So I wouldn't say this was my favorite vacation of all year because of the following:

This is our family boat trip each year and Jake and I had to leave early so I could head out to good 'ol Ohio for my new job training.
The Sand
The Wind
The Heat
NO SHADE
Jake and I popped a tire on our friend Frank's very nice four wheeler
I burned the tops of my feet
We couldn't sleep because of the wind and sand in our mouths (yuck)
Jake (aka Bear Grills) stayed up all night freaking out wanting to go home due to the extreme weather conditions... I have never seen him like that... i laughed really hard
I guess after we left, the whole family had to leave due to a huge sand storm. It actually threw Ty off his feet.

We did have some good laughs though.....

Saren's Ward Baby Shower

2009-07-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

So the cutest gal in my ward, named Molly, came over with her daughter and decorated my house for Saren's ward baby shower. Her maiden name is Zurcher, so lets just say she has access to a lot of party supplies. Well, lucky me, for a stay at home mom, she has a blog that shows people how to decorate for parties. This month fell on a baby boy shower for her..... so she asked if she could decorate... it turned out so cute! Thanks Molly. Her daughter is in these pictures due to the fact that she is one of the prettiest babies I have seen. I cant believe baby Noah is almost here! I am so excited. I take off for my training in Ohio on Sunday and wont be back until the 24th. Saren is due the 26th. Cutting it a little close aren't we Nae Nae????

Jake my Man

2009-07-01T09:34:00.001-07:00

Jake is so good with kids. He was reading with them "Who Stole the Cookies From the Cookie Jar" for about an hour. He was going into different voices and started adding our family members into the book. Moke and Ashley were laughing hysterically as my mom and I giggled with them. He then proceeded to do the "train" with the kids on the blanket being pulled around the house. To finish the night, everyone got chocolate milk sippies and headed off to bed to play some more. I married so well :) Lucky me and lucky Moke, Ashley and Gabba Gails.

Estan Desnudos!

2009-06-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

Saren and I babysat the kids while the big dogs (daddy and mommy) went out to make all the money :) We had such a good time. Saren usually takes care of the kids herself since she works for Capital, but she is getting so big with baby Noah that she has a hard time running after them. So the big sister came to the rescue! We found this small pool under the deck, and thought that it would be fun for the kiddos. After Nae Nae's trips to get hot water from the sink, we all settled in for quite the treat. Moke, of course, is making his funny faces, and Gabby is so cute you could eat her!

Back in the Saddle Again

2009-06-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

I am so Blessed! I got a job offer to work from home Monday thru Friday 8:30 to 5; no weekends; paid holidays.... this is every nurse's dream... I can actually feel okay with myself when I am sick because it is not life and death situations if I don't show up to work. The Lord works in mysterious ways. I have learned not to put my strength in my own hands, but to have faith. Even when I felt it was hopeless. Things just worked out. I am glad for my trial, but honestly hope no one has to go through being layed off. Not a good feeling. YEAH DENAE!!

He Did It!

2009-06-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, friends, Jake graduated. He is a Graduator!! He graduated in Sociology at BYU. He has been throwing words around like socioeconomic status and demographics for years now. It will be nice not having to worry about school for awhile. Jake's goal is to go back and get his MBA, but as of right now he will have to settle for mowing the lawn and wiping the counters. Yes, friends, Nae Nae has already started a "To Do" list for him to do. I am a lovely wife, I know, hold the applause. Way to go Jake! He worked so hard for this. All those years of pain and anguish!! He actually went to school at nights and worked full time during the day.... maybe that is why we are still barren ha ha!!

Nothing Like It!

2009-06-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

My little friend, Desmond, and I spent a morning together when all the other babysitters were working. This is one advantage, I would have to say, of being layed off. Now, I do not recommend it to everyone, but I do recommend spending as much time with babies, bulb syringes, water and a sink. A very fun combo!!

The Two Year Mark To Remember

2009-06-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

Well we made it this far... might as well keep going I guess!! To be honest I never thought I could be so happy. My Dad gave us some good advice before we got married... "It is not going to be like Disneyland everyday!" I agree, but I think the key ingredient is that you have each other. I really indeed married my best friend. He is so supportive and as Jake says it, " Has gotten used to girls and their sensitive ways!" I asked Jake this morning how he always stays so positive because truely he is. He said it was because he has such a great married life. Now isn't that adorable ladies??!! I am not sure how I got so lucky with the blessing of marrying Jake. He is the perfect match for me.

So yesterday on our anniversary, Jake and I, let's say, were not at Disneyland. I got laid off at my job. Yes, folks, even nurses are having trouble in this economy. It is so unstable! I was even their senior RN! I appreciate all the help and support everyone has been with this. I have felt super loved. What I should have done in retrospect was just have gotten out of this job more quickly. I stayed in for the money, and the love I had for my patients. I think last night summed it up when I had a dream about spiders. I am a big believer in dreams. My dream entailed spiders that were coming after me and I killed them. Upon researching what spiders mean in dreams I found out that:
Spider/Spiders: Deceit, a web of lies. Ask yourself who around you may not be trustworthy. Spiders can also mean someone or something is "bugging" you to the point that you are feeling trapped, just as a spider uses its web to trap its prey.

The fact that I was killing them means:
Killing/Killed: If you are doing the killing then there is a need or desire to kill off, to put an end to something in your life such as a relationship, a behavior, a situation, etc.

All in all this was not the path I needed to be on! I would really like to work for a job that appreciated me and that I enjoy! So anyone reading this... I am looking for work!!! Specialties: Diabetes, Nursery\NICU, and preventative health.

Sam I Am

2009-05-28T10:15:00.001-07:00

Here are the beloved pictures I snapped with my I phone. It was a great day with no dry eye in the bunch! We love Sam and Whitney and wish them the best!

Do the Hogle

2009-05-13T16:31:00.001-07:00

The Zoo is so cool. I like the Zoo. Moke wanted to see the dinosaurs, and Ashley wanted to see the cats?? All in all, I caved into the choo-choo train, the cotton candy, the carousel, and the lion drinking fountain. If that didn't top it off, on the way home, I stopped at Walmart, and after desperation to get out of the store bought Ashley a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup and Moke a Ring Pop. Then I dropped them off at their houses. Ha Ha! Sorry Mom! Sorry Lissa!! My favorite part of the day though, was when Jake had them promise to bring him home a panda bear and turtle. Well sweety, these two little cuties found every panda and turtle and asked how much they were to buy.. I mean every one of them. They love Jake so much and didn't want to disappoint him, of course=-)

Its always fun when Grandpa comes

2009-04-15T15:40:00.000-07:00

My grandpa came into town for a series of eye tests. The cutest thing happened when he visited... Gabbie couldn't get enough of him. She was hugging and snuggling... it was so precious! My Grandpa is one of my favorite people. I feel like I can always go to him for advice or just a good laugh. He is turning eighty in a month..... it was just the other day when I was begging to be in his raft as we floated the Boise River! Those waterfalls were huge back then, and I always felt the safest with my Gramps!!

The Old News

2009-04-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

Well I guess it is okay to officially announce that my baby sister is pregnant! She is due July 26th. She is such a good example to me. She was one of the people that I missed so much while I was on my mission. She is a crack-up! We still hang out all the time since she lives down the street from us. Ty, her husband, is a hoot as well. I am the one that actually introduced these two and yes, I take all the credit. She is having a boy, and the whole fam is out of control excited! But don't mistake all these angel faced pictures, she is crazy woman on the dance floor!! UMSCK UMSCK Love you Saren! Smooches!

Where's Moke? There He Is!

2009-04-03T15:01:00.000-07:00

These two thought it would be so fun to stuff Moke in this box and take him around the house held by Jake.... I got a kick out of it! They tried doing this again the other day which ended up in the scene in Jim Carrey's movie Pet Detective when he busts out of the box in his tutu when he thinks he is going to be caught by the orderlies in the storage closet..... very nice boys!

Rub a Dub Dub Desi in the Tub

2009-03-29T16:20:00.000-07:00

So this is Patrick, Mary Ann (Jake's sister) and their son Desmond. Do you think this is how Jake and our baby will turn out? And no, Nae Nae is not pregnant. Just an innocent question.

Mickey Dee's

2009-03-19T17:25:00.000-07:00

I really don't care what anyone says... I am going to continue eating at McDonalds. I love it! From the fries to the yogurt parfait to the McFlurry. Yum Yum. Look at these happy kids... could it really be that bad?? I actually do blame my addiction to my dear Jordan Tech goers... yes you Cherissa and Milli!! Then Ashley fed the fire as she would have me sneak out of my computer class and go to McDonalds... those were some good 'ol days

A birthday to remember

2009-02-28T12:18:00.000-08:00

So I want to thank everyone for such a fun night!! There is nothing like good company with some good food. Thanks Mama for the Crowley tacos, frog eye salad, balloons and cake. For the record, we had a four way tie for the ugliest sweater. Thanks to Jake, Sam, Ty and Kylee for gracing us with your extreme ugliness. We had a gift card to give out... but in four ways.. do you guys just want like 2 dollars?? Let me know :) Who knew we were going to get dinner and a show.... A special thanks to Ty and Sam for the "Boys are Back" rendition from High School Musical Three. It was so close to the real thing...... :) We played "Murder in the dark", and ended the night with a killer game of Family Feud. As folks were leaving, we karaoked to "I got you Babe", "You've Lost That Loving Feeling", and "Danny's Song". I had such a wonderful time! One of my favorite parts of the night was Jake surprising me with a road bike! This is a birthday to remember.

Random

2009-02-24T19:30:00.000-08:00

So these photos have no particular order. What happened is we thought we lost our camera charger in Peru, but we found it the other day in some luggage. Que Milagro!! So here are some pics from that disk. It has our cruise to the Bahamas, Derek and Hilary's wedding, Kristie's wedding, our Peru trip, Kristie's engagement, Mika puppy pictures, Newport Beach, Troy and Jake fixing our sprinklers, Kylee's deputant ball, Ricky's Wedding and random family pics. Something to note, the rubble picture was actually were Jake used to shower on his mission in Ica, Peru. That area really got hit by the earthquake there 2 years ago. The picture with Joci was at the David Archuleta party at Murray Highschool (yes, we are Archies!) The pic of Jake and I with snowboards is actually on a sand hill that let me tell you did not end well :) One of the pics you cant tell what I am eating, but it is coconut that this native in the Bahamas fed to me that I was a little hesitant on. The other of me is lighting candles at the top of this huge hill with a cross on it in Peru. It was to give me good luck. Has anyone been on the cruise with the whole life jacket routine?... jake and I about passed out.. they show you what to do in case of an emergency and you have life jackets on and big people and b.o... not a good combo.

We are the Old Farts

2009-02-16T09:52:00.000-08:00

So for the past three years, my Dad has treated his "girls" to a waited dinner for Valentines. He starts out with social hour with cider, grapes, veggies, shrimp and toasts. He then precedes to have us migrate to the tables for servings of first soup, then salad and then your choice of steak or chicken platters. The dinner is finished off with ice cream (this year was cheesecake or cakebatter) and of course dancing. This year we decided to go a little vintage. After many trips to the DI and Savers, these are our outfits. My favorite is, of course, my hubby's tight suade suit, but then you have Sam's pedifile outfit... chad's checkers and Ty's Jerbos. Ty even grew a mustache for the occasion. I actually got my outfit and Saren's from one of my patient's closet. It was kind of scary how attractive some of us turned out!! Troy and his girlfriend, Melisa, win the cutest couple award! They decided to go all out instead of vintage and the results were so great... we needed someone to help us out in our sad state of ugliness.

Yes, they continue to let me babysit

2009-02-13T16:11:00.000-08:00

So the day started out fine. Gabba Gales was crawling around for me, and Moke was playing with plato. Susie decided to join the fun, and Moke wanted a picture with her playing in the "greens" (all who know us will know what the "greens" are - it is a health supplement we use to alkaline our bodies. My mother puts it in the babies sippies and bobbas. They love it!) Well the greens soon ended up everywhere, and Susie fled to safety whereas Gabby couldnt - hence the hand to Moke's face saying "GET OUT OF MY FACE!" So I took Moke to change. He wanted to get in his monkey outfit. Well, we got the pajamas out and the two items you see in the picture(one on Moke's head and the other he is using as a microphone) were stuck to the newly washed jamies. Yes, it is someones underwear whose name we will leave anonymous. After giggling for awhile, Moke wanted to take a picture with his eyes closed like he was a superstar in a band getting into his music.

JAKE??? PATTY?? DEREK??

2009-02-02T09:28:00.000-08:00

ADIDAS

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

Over the weekend, Jake had a tournament at the Murray Indoor Facility. Of course, they swept the tournament. They all got huge t-shirts and $50 dollars off next season. Jake is holding the ball he got for the GOLDEN BOOT AWARD. Yes, my sweetie had the most goals in the tournament. Suprise suprise. Jake has this funny habit of grabbing at his hair when he is nervous, which ends up in frowing his hair out. You should see it during school finals.... BYU actually had him get a haircut due to his big hair.
Moke and Ashley joined the indoor game fun to score some goals. Jake gave Moke his Golden Boot indoor soccer ball. Jake says it is a $100 ball ... kind of fancy. Hey, anything to get Moke started on his stardom and richness... hopefully Jake and I will reap the benefits!!

Grandma will love these photos!

2009-01-29T13:31:00.000-08:00

We got together last night for Kylee's birthday dinner and went bowling after. Of course, I just started snapping pics. Saren is posing with Sam's girlfriend, Whitney. We just love her! She hangs out with us even if Sam isn't around. We are hoping she stays around forever! Fun fact about her is that she is a lefty in everything she does except writing.
Bryce and Kelsie are so beautiful together. I want to say beautiful people suck but these two are super sweet and fun to be with. We all love her cute new bob.
The cutie with Troy is his new girlfriend, Melisa. She is a social worker that works with kids and families in their homes. She saw Troy at a Chinese restraunt and had the waiter slip him a note with her number. They have been hanging out ever since. Troy has been so cute with her. He and Bryce went and bought some new clothes to improve Troys usually more gruff atire. Jake and Ty have been relentlessly teasing Troy. T and M walked in last night to the dinner holding hands. My mom seriously cant stop talking about it. The woman calls me just to chit chat about it. I love it!
Now not to impress all of you, but I put the picture of the bowling game because I beat everyone there!! Yes, yes.. scoring my all time high of 180. I would like to thank the amazing number 10 bowling ball, my husband, and brunswick lanes! Thanks!!

Temple Time

2009-01-22T16:22:00.001-08:00

So we headed to the Draper Temple open house last Friday. We started at our house with pork sandwiches, corn and salad with oreo cake desert. Then we were herded for an hour at the church in and out of rooms. We watched a really good video on Draper History and temples. We then loaded up in buses up to the temple. It was absolutely beautiful. Upon asking Ty (my sister's husband) how he felt that night about his temple experience, he was speechless:) Jake and I are pumped to have the temple a few minutes away from our house! It was a night of good food, good company and spiritual enrichment. We are truely blessed.

ADAM??!!!

2009-01-22T16:03:00.000-08:00

Last night, we went over to the Crowley's house to say welcome home to my cousin Adam. He looks awesomely shell shocked:) It was fun talking with him in Spanish. Jake and he were gabbing and gabbing about the food and people since their missions bordered each other. I gabbed and gabbed with Beck a boo and her wee one Julia. Becky is one of my favorite people in this world. She is just lovely in all ways. She moved up to Canada with her husband while he is finishing school. Jake and I are going to visit them in April!
P.S. Adam is the huge one next to me... we don't know where he came from:)

Here She Comes

2009-01-22T13:17:00.000-08:00

Kylee is a junior at Alta High and of course is a brainiac. She actually skipped a grade, and will be turning sweet 16 next wednesday. She informed me that there is a LDS highschool hangout downtown where she is throwing her birthday bash. Jake and I already have plans to sneak in. Kylee says there are bouncers so Jake and I will have to pull out our super ninja moves to get in... should be interesting. It will probably end up like the time bengar got stuck on the shelley's fence while trying to escape being caught. I wonder if Ashley's fiance knows about that one hmmm.... Anyhow- yes boys - the cute chocolate sass known as my sister can officially date next week!!! The prize will go to the highest bidder!!! Love you Kylee!! Smoochers:)

Just Remembering...

2009-01-11T19:48:00.000-08:00

So my Dad, Mom, Sister (Saren) and Best Friend (Kristie) came to pick me up from my mission. These are the pictures Kristie took. The people there are very poor. They are actually the second poorest country in South America. One of the pictures is the puppet show that Hermana Erickson (Deann) and I put on for the health clinics. Another shows a typical food there called Majadito. It consists of fried eggs, fried bananas, tomatoes and creamy rice. The picture of the chickens are actually the dirt road outside of my house, and yes that is green water and trash.

VIVA BOLIVIA!

2009-01-11T19:07:00.000-08:00

So this is one of my companions I served with in the Santa Cruz, Bolivia mission. We were together for 6 months! Yes, Yes my friends. We were planning each others murders by the end. We had such a good time though. This is the lady that I was kidnapped with for all of you that have heard that story. She was also what they called my hijita (daughter). I raised her to be the woman that she was in the mission field:) We were together that long because we were actually serving as nurses. We set up health clinics at various locations in our mission. We loved every second of it. The people of Bolivia were so loving and just wanted to be taught to live better lives spiritually and temporally.
For all of you Saturday Warrior Fans -- picture 11 pm in bed in your jammies with a newly found friend on the single bed next to you singing at the top of your lungs together in unison "JIMMY oh JIMMY DONT LISTEN TO THEM......"
I love you Deann y felicitationes con todo!!

Reel 'Em in and then Ship 'Em Out

2009-01-09T14:59:00.000-08:00

Yoshi and Mika got groomed today. I tried a new place out, and they did a really good job on the Schnauzer cut. The funny thing is that when I went to pay, the lady said $35 for Mika and $40 for Yoshi. I inquired why, and she said she would have to go and ask the groomer. I overheard their conversation as the groomer stated, "because that dog was a brat!" I went to go and talk to the groomer and she said that Yoshi got a "bad dog fee" of $5 bucks because he didn't like to be groomed. Uhhhmmm.... okay. When I told Jake that story he petted Yoshi and said, "That's my Boy!" We have some real ideal parenting skills at the Cavanaugh home:) My Mom thought that was a great story, and was doing the pee pee dance laughing so hard about it.

Flowers are Denae's best friend

2009-01-09T12:41:00.000-08:00

I don't know if all guys are like this but when Jake sees a problem, he wants to fix it. I was having a down day due to that time of the month, and Jake came home and surprised me with these delectibles. Yum Yum. I love edible arrangements! Especially the chocolate dipped bananas. I would have to say problem solved! Thanks Sweetie!

IF THERE IS A JAKE, THERE IS A MOKE

2009-01-07T15:55:00.001-08:00

I have been amazed at what good friends these two are. Jake actually met Moke before I did. I was still in Bolivia when Moke was adopted into our family. My family sent me out a picture of these two. Where Jake is , Moke is. We are hoping that Moke grows up and wants to be a professional soccer player. Jake and I will take all the credit:) Go BYU!

Moke's favorite things to do: play soccer, golf, tennis, baseball, football and wrestle. He enjoys drumming and singing. He dances whenever he hears a beat. He likes to remind all to "BE NICE." He loves to pose for pictures, be thrown in the air and twirl. He is an avid swimmer of the pool and a jumper of the trampoline. And all who have met Moke knows he loves to laugh!

KRISTIE AND DENAE

2009-01-07T08:56:00.000-08:00

"What is a friend? A single soul in two bodies."

- Aristotle

This is my Bestfriend Kristie..... yes we do everything together and no we are not sisters. We have known each other since infancy. Ran away from Joy School together. Got pictures when we were 5 in the same outfits and mushroom haircuts. When I moved away to Utah, Kristie and I would take turns visiting each other in the summers. We would write letters to each other of life events and of course BOYS! We went away to college together at SUU. Man did we have a lot of fun. I'll admit some was illegal, and yes the cops did come to our house to give us the breath-a-lizer :) No worries it was all a big misunderstanding:) We both went on to get our degrees in the medical world. Hers in Dental Hygiene and mine in Nursing. We both got married a year apart to two awesome guys.

Things we like to do or will do someday:
1) bungee jump from bridges that a drunk guy rigged up
2) eat a lot of soft serve yogurt
3) eat a lot of candy
4) wear eachothers clothes do the point of mortal combat
5) dance dance dance
6) stay in shape
7) cruise the mediterranean
8) have babies around the same time and have them marry:)
9) LAUGH
10) watch dumb and dumber
11) have deep conversations about life
12) play hand and foot
13) layout on the beach
14) be hot mamas who live in beach houses
15) eat thai food
16) hang out with family
17) kiss ( husbands only now:)
18) ride the "big banana"
19) be warm
20) take pictures
I Love You BEST FRIEND!!

GABBA GABBA GAILS

2009-01-06T10:13:00.001-08:00

Isn't she lovely!!

DADDY'S LITTLE GIRL

2009-01-06T09:06:00.001-08:00

My Dad and our new favorite little sister, Gabriella. I love their teethless grins:) Gabby was officially adopted into our family in December of 2008. She is a happy, sweet and as you can see DADDY'S GIRL. Her favorite things to do are slobber, drink her bobba with milk and greens, and smile.

The Time has Come:)

2009-01-05T11:31:00.000-08:00

So Jake got me the I phone and now I am one of those people who takes photos all the time. CLICK CLICK CLICK CLICK. I tried printing off my pictures to put into my scrapbook, and didn't like the quality of the pictures. So here I am :) Blogging. I am a blogger:) My friend Joci has to be the most to blame since she has been encouraging me to get one. She also encourages me to get pregnant.... hhhhmmmmm.... So here we are Jake, Denae, Yoshi and Mika