New Year's Eve

No long winded "Boo Hooing" about Arizona today - just wanted to show a cute picture of Zachery and Olivia and what they did on Dec 31, 2008. Digging for worms!

I call this NYE in the Sun! lol No sledding here on New Year's Day!

Merry Christmas 2008

This is our Holiday Newsletter - Enjoy!

Taylor’s 2008
16989 W Bradford WaySurprise, AZ 85374

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! We have survived another year in the Desert & see no end in site!
Dean – still employed! As you know this is big news in the construction field! He is 1 of 2 designers left at his company, & we are sooo grateful! We did begin an out of state job search early this year – however nothing “felt” right. On Dean’s birthday in September, he was called to be the new Bishop of the Willow Canyon Ward in the Surprise, Arizona Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! What a humbling calling…yes, we see him a few less hours, however we feel the strength of the Lord in our lives more than ever. – Humbling
Jenni – All clear! In January I headed to my hip surgeon seeking approval on several activities our kids deemed “Iffy” – Jogging–No! (whew) DDR–Yes! (Ha) Walking-Yes! Cartwheels- we decided to hold off on that, although I was his first patient to ever ask if I could do them! I took up a few new things this year, I read the Twilight series, loved it – that’s all I’m going to say about that. I also began a Taylor Family Blog – so go check it out @ taylortots5.blogspot.com – it has been a learning experience & fun keeping up with some of you! I am still running to & fro with the kid’s activities, but love it (most of the time) I get to play in the 18mo old nursery on Sundays. I wonder how I ever survived a Mid-west winter - Believe it or not – I freeze in the AZ winter – Go figure!
Dowlin – Turned 18! Along with his Right to Vote in the Presidential Election in November, came ATTITUDE! Who knew? Dowlin played Tight End, & Linebacker for Willow Canyon Wildcats Football team this year. He was #1 in sacks in our 5A Division, & received an Honorable Mention Award in the NW Region 5A Division. Pretty cool! He also scored, blocked & tackled his guts out all year! He works at Paradise Bakery. Dowlin is taking AP classes & looking at his final semester of his Sr yr of HS! He is teaching the CTR 8 Primary class at church, in preparation for his Mission. His future plans include a mission for the Church, & college. Not sure where yet, anywhere but AZ.
Mercedes – Turned 16! She is a Sophomore, grade 10. She has been enjoying her HS career so far. Band, Volleyball & Softball are her sports of choice. If you’re thinking band’s not a sport – I dare you to come train with this band director! Mercedes band is headed to San Diego, CA to perform in the Holiday Bowl half-time show, and Parade.(Dec 27-31) Not to mention they were the half-time show lights and flags tunnels for the Super Bowl in 2008! She is also taking AP classes. Mercedes got her Learners Permit & began driving eagerly…however she thinks it’s over rated, why drive when others could drive you? She is so quick witted, she keeps us crackin’ up! What a girl!
Brittney –Turned 12! LOVES the Young Women’s program at church! Just this month she got to go to the Temple in Mesa & perform baptisms for the dead, & see the beautiful Temple lights! She is in the 6th grade. She played the Trumpet last school year, & Soccer & Volleyball, but gave it all up to join the school choir this year & is enduring the rigorous daily rehearsals. She loves to sing & that makes it worth it. She’s going to the State competition in March! Brittney also enjoys swimming & dancing. She makes friends easily, & thinks babysitting is an awesome job…She has enjoyed several additions to her wardrobe with her own earnings. She’s always asking to go shopping – I think we’ve created a monster!
Zachery – Turned 10! He is in 4th grade, & just moved up to Webelos in Cub Scouts. Zachery played Soccer, Basketball (coached by Dean & Dowlin) & Baseball last year. He also chose to join the school choir this yr instead of fall sports. Dowlin pitched a fit! Zachery was asked to perform with a District Honors Choir last month. (1 of 6 students from our school) He is still just a quiet, shy guy. He likes to play computer and video games when he gets a chance. Loves to swim & makes sure nobody walks away dry! He likes to go grocery shopping with me. He has a crazy infectious laugh – He is still snuggly & Loveable!
Olivia – Turned 3! She started Preschool & loves it! She is the only girl in her little class, but I imagine she keeps the boys in line! She is personality plus! She just never stops. She loves to read, do “homework” & puzzles. She fights for her turn on the computer & is “not a baby!’ Loves movies, Barbie, pink, dress-up, babies & Chap Stick! Olivia loved going to the football games! She danced with the band & copied the cheerleader’s moves to perfection! She thinks everything revolves around her! She is going to be a Sunbeam in Primary at church in January & is very excited! Olivia is very loving & she amazes us all daily!
We enjoyed a family vacation to CA in May & spent some time with Great Grandma Dowlin. Moved across the street-note the new house number! We have 4 Missionaries serving from our extended family – Deans Parents are in South Africa, they will be home in February! Taylor Gilbert is in Toronto, Canada. & Dustin Wilson is still in the MTC headed for Czech Republic-Prague.
As we close this year, we feel so very grateful for the birth of Jesus Christ, for His Gospel in our lives. We have been so blessed throughout our lives – Family, friends, health, happiness, Love - I could go on & on…
That is our wish for you as well! May 2009 bring you Health, Happiness & Love!

-Dean, Jenni, Dowlin, Mercedes, Brittney, Zachery & Olivia

Picking the Taylor Family Tree

Twenty-one years ago, when our family began, we vowed to carry on a Wilson Family Tradition. To search, find, cut & bring a live Christmas Tree into our home for the season. Although this tradition seems silly to some of you "Fake Tree" owners - This is where we see the true feelings of family companionship & bonding...out on the wide open Christmas Tree farms of the Kansas plains. Our family has been tested & strengthened! It is the place you find out who is "worthy" to own one of these majestic beauties!
In years past, we have braved every element nature had to throw at us! Wind, sleet, snow, rain & ice, I've got to say the ice was the worst! But we did it! So, with a fresh viewing of National Lampoons "Christmas Vacation" under our belts, we set out on Grandpa Wilson's birthday to find

"The Taylor Family Christmas Tree".

Here is Mercedes displaying her winter boots for the occasion.

Everyone else wore jeans or shorts and sandals.

We piled into the van, and crossed busy Bell Road and entered the Safeway Parking lot. You're probably wondering if we were refueling before our journey... sadly, No! "We're not in Kansas anymore, Toto!" We're in Arizona - the Valley of the Sun - so adjustments had to be made. As we searched for the perfect tree, you know the one - it's lit from Heaven - we walked the lot of 40-50 trees once, let Dowlin pick the tree, waved down the guy with the dolley, paid, and were back home all with in 15 minutes! No joke!

The good news is we were happy with the tree - and quickly began the rest of the tradition - sorry Dad, we didn't soak it in warm water in the garage over night so the branches would "fall".

Everyone had a chance to Trim the tree in one way or another

We needed a hole for the back side of the tree anyway, Lol

Dowlin topped it off with the Traditional Angel

Then the wait for Santa began! We had a very nice Christmas and enjoyed our time together, we played games and ate way too many goodies.

I only tell you this tale to keep from crying, we have learned to adjust to the weather here, but we still enjoy reminiscing about the fun days we spent in search of the perfect tree. The wagon rides and cocoa, and candy canes, the torpedo tree, and the ice! These are the family memories that will carry from one generation to the next, even our 2008, 15 minute hunt! lol

Merry Christmas to you all - May you pass on a tradition to your children as well!

Honorable Mention

Well, it's finally over! Dowlin's High School Football Career has closed! We couldn't have been more proud of his success if he had started every game!
We have often felt like we moved him at such a critical time in his sporting years, he has had to fight tooth and nail to prove himself and earn his starting position.
He gave up HS Basketball, when he broke his back his Sophomore year, and never connected with that group of guys. He still plays and knocks around the "weekend warrior" married men on Saturday mornings though and totally enjoys feeding them "crow". Actually broke our last Bishops foot one time, and poor Brother Sasaki left for his new job at BYU-H with something broken in his hand - it was swollen - still sorry Randy!
Dow has considered giving up HS Baseball too. He can still knock the ball out of the park when he wants, throws a mean pitch, and runs like the wind, but - he has other things on his mind.

Back to Football - We attended his Varsity banquet, and not only did he lead our 5A division in QB Sacks - but he received an Honorable Mention in the NW Region 5A Division. The way I understand this is after watching endless hours of tape on the season, all coaches in the region(?) vote on these awards. (There are other awards as well) anyway, we were very proud of Dowlin and that he was recognized.
This is Coach Hudnutt - as with every coach he says another 15-20 pounds would do Dowlin good. I laugh - Ha ha ha ha! Where does he think he's gonna find that?

Ever since he was young, his Coaches have nothing but nice things to say about him. He always gives 110%. He works hard. Will there be football in college? I have no idea! We're not sure his route right now - He's looking at his options. Mission and College are there, just not sure which order right now. As always, we stress it is HIS choice.

We love this kid! He has been honest and trustworthy since birth, never in trouble - well, there was that one time he tore a piece of Grandma Taylor's pretty wall paper off the wall, but he was like 2, so that shouldn't count!

We look forward to many years of great things from Dowlin Jared Taylor - remember the name...you'll see it attached to many great things in the future!

Twilight -

For the record I have to say the books are 1000X better than the movie! Once upon a time, in September of 2007, I was dropping Zachery off at a Harry Potter themed birthday party. I stood by the door making small talk for a few minutes with Amy, when she suddenly said, "You have to read this!" Magically Jamie appeared with a book, titled 'Twilight'. I looked at it, Amy said, "It's a vampire love story, but it's really good." I left with the book in hand, placing it in the console of the van, where it sat for a week.

When I saw it again, I thought, 'Either take it in and read it or give it back! It's a signed copy for heaven sakes.' - I took it in!

The next day, as I closed the book on the final chapter...(yes, less than 24 hours) I thought, 'W O W! That was good', I turned the book over and started it again! I knew there was going to be a sequel called New Moon, the 1st chapter was in the back of Twilight...as I closed the book one day, I saw a website on the back, I went there only to discover the next 2 BOOKS WERE OUT!

I called Jamie, the source of the books, and borrowed the next 2 books. And so the cycle began, Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, etc, etc, etc...

I am going to spare you a lot of detail here, but I began talking to friends about "The Series" and next think you know I was recommending it... Taleen read it, Doreen read it, Katie was reading it to Kyle - Hilarious! I'm not going into detail about the story, if you have been in a cave or something for the last 3 years, go to a book store and pick up all 4 books now, might as well get the movie sound track, although if you're like me the music was not my style.

As I said I spent the better part of the year reading on the 3 book loop, waiting for book #4, Breaking Dawn, to be released in August. One day, another friend, Malie, said, "Have you been to the Fan fiction sites?" that's right, add a new element - It's CRAZY. I totally blame Amy, Jamie, and Malie for my obsession! Actually Malie and I have decided we"re not "Obsessed" were "Passionate"

So in like Feb or March, they started filming Twilight the movie...Talk about sensory overload!!!

Well, the book came out in August, and the movie came out Nov 21. I refused to go to the Breaking Dawn midnight release party, however I took several calls to answer trivia questions for friends. Although I predicted several plot happenings in the new book, it wasn't really how I saw it in my head. I kept saying, 'This is weird". I read it and shelved it, thinking I was cured of my cycle. Well I decided to read it at the beginning of Nov. It took about 2 weeks, and I enjoyed it so much more!

This brings us to today! November 21, 2008. THE day...I was pressured into (LOL) going to the Midnight showing of Twilight...You know the saying "The book is always better than the movie" - really true here. I hate to say, I was kinda disappointed...Could have been sooo good. So many things left out, so not how I pictured it...Well, another friend, Lori, had tickets and asked me to go with her. So again at 7PM we hit the theater - amazingly, I liked it a lot better the 2nd time! I think the expectation and anxiety I had for the first showing was gone and I could just enjoy it and look at the movie, rather than look for what I was wishing for...Does that even make sense? Anyway, If you saw it and felt disappointed like I did, I recommend you see it again. (and again and again...) Can you believe it made $70.55 Million opening weekend? Whoa!

Probably the funnest Twilight experience I have had was the 21 days before Breaking Dawn came out, they put quotes from the book on Stephenie Meyer's website. (that's the author) Malie lives in Hawaii, she and I texted back and forth our predictions about the quotes, I kept track of them, and in the end sent her a copy. As we found the actual quote in the book, we did pretty well. getting more than 1/2 close, or dead on. It was fun.

Mercedes and I made shirts for the Midnight showing -

We decided there was no reason to do a Midnight showing of New Moon which by the way will start filming early next year, with a bigger budget!

Funny UPDATE - No secret that Dean and Dowlin dislike these books...Dean tries to be a good sport, but it gets on his nerves easily. Dowlin says he's just tired of going without decent meals. (K, that only happens the first time through a book!) Anyway, Dowlin's announces that Maritza thinks the books are stupid. That he's found the only girl who hates Edward. (one of the main characters) Well, Maritza was over the day I was making our shirts, she asked what they were for, Mercedes and I looked sideways at each other, I plopped the book down in front of her, Dow freaked out - she didn't even know anything about them! She thinks her aunt told her she should read them... Mercedes and I busted out laughing at Dowlin - she said, "No Dow, you didn't find the only girl who hates Twilight...You found the only girl who hasn't read Twilight". So Hilarious!

Zachery turns 10

Well FINALLY! That's Zachery's thoughts on waiting the entire year for his birthday! :)

Zachery is a great guy! He is in 4th grade and doing very well. He and Brittney joined the school choir at the beginning of the year and despite the early hours of daily practice, they are enjoying it. Zach was chosen as one of 6 4-5 graders from our school to go to the District Honors Choir. It was a long day but he had a good time and we were very proud of him. (Brittney was receintly chosen for State in March)

Zachery will move up to the Webelos den in Cub Scouts, he's just plugging along. He loves to play computer games and we watch a lot of movies. Probably one of the funniest things lately was a little brotherly bonding! Dowlin and Zachery were playing something on the PS2 - for some reason Zachery kept saying "Arg" like a pirate - It was driving Dowlin up the wall. Dow said, "You say that again I'm going to..." a few minutes later I hear Zachery start making cracks like, "Why didn't you watch that movie? Was it rated 'Arg'?" I couldn't help but bust up. He had others but that was my favorite. He is a funny boy.

Zachery is also learning to mow our massive yard. (Takes longer to start the mower than actually cut the grass) he was pretty funny - concentration was high!

You would never believe this skinny boy - 70 pounds soaking wet, started out at 9lbs 15.5oz. He's just a carbon copy of Dean and Dowlin...Thank goodness for the adjustable waistband in pants!

All in all I think he had a pretty good day - not too busy, but Olivia and I went to the school and ate Holiday lunch with him and Brittney.

Happy Birthday Z-man. Thanks for keeping things light hearted!

Olivia's 1st haircut

What was I thinking? I have given both Mercedes and Brittney many haircuts and the boys monthly! So why was I sooo stressed out with this little one?

Olivia has such curly hair, I thought (and consulted with the girl who does mine) it's so long, if I give her some layers, the top will be lighter and able to curl better. Problem was I couldn't bring myself to give her the shorter layers! I think I took about 5 inches off in attempt...but really it looks the same. She got a sucker and I got a huge headache and had to go take a nap!
K, it's not crooked, she's just sitting funny, LOL

Updates!

Just a couple of things -
For you new commers to our blog - you might want to check out the post dated Sept 7 - "Big Weekend" that ought to catch you up. The rest is just fun and fluff.
For all of you who helped support Mercedes by sponsoring her for her December Holiday Bowl trip - We can't Thank you enough! THANK YOU! (If anyone is feeling the need to "sponsor" still, read Mercedes post dated - Sept 8 - "Sponsors Welcome". And YES - Sponsors will be welcome until she leaves - Dec 27th :) )
K- that's all.
I know it's a lot to sift through - but this is just proof that you can survive in the desert! LOL
Hope you enjoy reading

"I'm Number 1"

UPDATE - Dowlin ended the season with 8 Sacks and in the #1 spot for our division!! Congrats Dowlin! Hey Coach, think what he could have had if you would have started him the whole season!
Here is another link for Dowlin! This is for the Northwest 5A division standings (and junk). Last week Dowlin was in a 4 way tie for 2nd in Sacks - FINALLY last game stats were posted and HE'S NUMBER ONE! So click on the link and see his name - scroll down to "Defense" and check out his name in the #1 spot! (Hurry - who knows what will happen tomorrow at the game) lol

Our 1st playoff game is against Boulder Creek (Last weeks leader is from BC-currently #2 spot): ) Anyway, Dowlin is friends with our QB, Trey. At practice the other day, Dow said, "Trey, u let that kid sack you...I'm gonna kick you in the Gonads myself!" Crude but hilarious!

Anyway - check it out! Go Dowlin!

http://www.maxpreps.com/arizona/football/5a-northwest/standings.aspx?leagueid=308b0858-f54c-446a-9ef6-06bb1939efe7&urpath=,local,league

Are you ready for some FOOTBALL?

Dowlin has been playing Tight End, Linebacker and is on Special Teams. Dow has had a pretty good year. His team is headed for their first State playoff game on the 14th. (Lets hope it goes better than last year - Ouch!) As usual Dowlin works his hiney off on the field! He has managed to get 3 TD's and a Safety (that's a tackle in our end zone) He leads the teams Receivers in points - LOL. He has 6 Sacks and is competing for #1 in AZ 5A division in Sacks! (that's when the QB gets tackled) He also has loads of tackles and blocks - some of which I'm sure the players are still wondering where that train came from! Some so good they should have made TV's highlights hit of the night! He comes out of no where - then, it's too late - BOOM! Anyway - check out his stats here - click on the "offensive" "defensive" or "scoring" categories to see the different stats.

http://www.maxpreps.com/arizona/football/willow-canyon-(surprise)/dowlin-taylor/stats.aspx?&ssid=2f36027d-d6f6-4509-aba9-adad5cc85b5e&athleteid=d68c23b7-a986-4515-8130-54d4fc5f9fbc&urpath=,local,player

Dowlin is 6"2" - 175 pounds

Showing Special Teams stickers

Senior Night - Dean and I got to escort him onto the field. Here he is with his "BFF" Taylynn. Never knew how a "girl" and a "boy" could be best friends - but these two annoy eachother just right - tell it like is is, and still hangout and "stuff". So more power to you guys -

"Remember, girlfriends come and go - but BFF's last forever"

How many players do you know who have their own water girl? Well, Dow does! The first half of the season we lovingly referred to her as #7. (That was the number she wore, here she is in #82.) Anyway last month he started bringing her home after the games :) her name is Maritza. She has taken good care of Dowlin on the field this year, she purposely fills water bottles with cold water for him. Even Gatorade. You should hear the other guys, "Is that Gatorade?" He gets harassed but hey, he gets the cold water and Gatorade too so, it's worth it. Plus, she's really a nice girl.

Don't forget to check back on "Max Preps" for his stats - they will continute to tally through State.

Our Little Republican

Our little boy was able to vote in his first Presidential Election! (Notice the sticker) After trying to get the Early Ballots mailed to our new address, and failing, we wound up going to the polls anyway.

Dowlin has a Goverment class this year where he spends a lot of time arguing - that's good right? He will not allow anyone to tell him how he believes or how to think!

We are proud of him.

We 3 spent quite a while going over the sample ballot and discussing and making

our own choices for this election! It was a proud moment to be there with him on this monumental day in his life!

I can't ever get through an election with out retelling the story of my 1st Presidental Election.

I was 19 and just married 1 year. Dean and I stood side by side in a trailer park office

in Provo Utah. I began reading the instructions and all of a sudden Dean leans over to me and whispers,

"By the way, we're Republican! First - I felt like we were cheating on a test!

A second later I had collected my thoughts and whispered back with a smile,

"Oh, I thought this was a FREE country." Dean appoligized, it was hilarious, then and now.

Back to Dowlin - As he has come home telling us about different discussions from class -

it has been so awesome to listen to him and feel his excitement as he talks about his views.

One night after he left us, I just laughed and said to Dean, "He is sooo Republican"

He's an adult - he's all grown up - He's my little boy!

Happy Halloween

Well here's our little angels getting ready for the Ward Trunk or Treat

As you can see, Brittney was some-sort of Fairy, Zachery was a soldier

Olivia was Snow White - She actually did pretty well with all of the "Scarey" masks that we terrify our children with. As we were Trick or Treating in our neighborhood, she & Zach walked up to a door where several adults were waiting...There was a guy in a "Scream" costume, and although he did not move, she watched him carefully. The lady giving out candy asked her if she was afraid of the guy. Olivia confidently said, "No, I'm not afraid of him!" She & Zach turned to walk away and her sleeve got caught on their car. She couldn't hold the terror back anymore. She started this terrified cry. It was heartbreaking! She skipped the rest of the street as I carried her. Finally, she was walking & I asked her if she wanted to go with Zach up to a door, again she said, "No...Oh fine, give me the bucket" It was so funny.

I was glad that she wasn't scarred for life. She was quite selective about which houses she would go up to the rest of the night though!

Then there was Princess Mercedes! She was the hit of the Trunk or Treat! Several little girls followed her around stunned. They were sure she was the "Real Cinderella". Her Sunday School teacher was ticking off the other girls in their classes costumes - "faries, devil, pirate" then he said, "I couldn't believe Mercedes was this beautiful princess!" (she sometimes comes off a bit sarcastic-Haha) Then he said, "I think these girls were showing their inner-selves" I agree - Mercedes has always been a Princess!
(By the way, this lovely retro gown happened to grace the 1986 Junior Prom of
Rogers High School - that's right, it was mine)
my favorite comments of the night were" That's so pretty, you should have seen my mom's prom dress"
Thanks Daddy - 22 years and it still "princessy"

Father Daughter Campout

In search of the Perfect Campsite

We live only like 15 - 20 minutes from the White Tank Mountains - This year our Ward had a Father Daughter Campout which the girls were sooo excited about! Mercedes pumped Olivia up about sleeping out in the wild, getting to pee outside and wipe with a rock (since there are no trees or bushes here, only cactus - so they decided on a rock) anyway by Friday Olivia was excited to go to "Camp Rock" (hilarious)

Well heres what happened - It was Dowlin's Homecoming Football game, Mercedes had a Band Festival the next morning, and both were "going out" after the Game with friends. So, Dean and the girls headed up to the campsite to set up, striking a deal that they would go up late after the game, camp and make smores - the whole 9 yards! (Plans go down hill from here) We notice the gates lock at 10PM. Decide to set up anyway, just incase - once the perfect campsite is located, and the van unloaded, the tent setup begins - then quickly ends as Dean discovers the bungies in the tent poles have decayed and the poles are all loose. A quick decision to pack up and sleep in their own beds - coming up early in the morning to eat and play for the day is reached - the tent is rolled up and van reloaded.

So after the Football game - we all head home feeling the joy of victory - we love hearing the announcer say Dowlin's name! We made smores, and watched a movie -

Dean and the little girls headed up for breakfast, and enjoyed the day hiking and playing in the mountains. Sadly (?) Olivia did not get to pee in the wild or wipe with a rock. But she took a 4 hour nap when she got home! Good Times had by all! Thanks Dad

Twenty-One Years

Today was our 21st Wedding Anniversary!

Again, where does the time go?

Hope you enjoy these "Blast from the Past" pictures.

We Were Married in the Seattle, Washington LDS Temple on

October 16, 1987.

I was 18 - Dean was 23 - When I see myself in my "minds eye" this is how I still look. It's the darn mirror that scares me! That's OK though, all the years of "wear n tear" have been totally worth it. I have a wonderful, loving husband. We have beautiful, amazing children who are the light of our lives.

We have been so blessed throughout our lives!

We are so grateful for both of our supportive parents, and all of our brothers and sisters! We are the richest people in the World - no doubt! and it all started with these two goofy kids -

I love you Dean, here"s to the next Twenty-One years

Holy Crap!

Well little Olivia keeps us in stiches - She runs the house and lets us watch! We let her have her first taste of Dr Pepper! She was very excited, took a huge drink and with her eyes watering and hand over her mouth she says, "Holy Crap! That burns!"

Really being number 5 has both advantages and disadvantages, you know - we never would have allowed Dowlin or Mercedes to get away with that kind of language! however they seem to be the reason she has a potty mouth. I guess if Holy Crap is the worse it gets we're good! LOL

Sweet 16

Believe it or not - Mercedes turned 16! WAAA - We are still trying to figure out where the time goes. It really does seem like just yesterday she was born... Amazing

Mercedes is midway through 1st quarter of her Sophomore year of High School. She is sooo busy, sometimes we have to sneak in her room at night just to see her! She is playing on the JV Volleyball team this year, and in the Marching Band. So if she's not practicing Volleyball, she's at Band and vice versa! She has Band Festivals even on Saturdays.

We've got to say, we are very proud of her and she looks pretty good in uniform :) she works pretty hard for a teenager.

Happy Birthday Princess Mercedes!

New Address

We just wanted to let you know that WE MOVED! our new address is
16989 W Bradford Way
Surprise, AZ 85374
if you're thinking....that's the old address - actually the last 2 numbers switched (was 16998) we moved across the street. YES it was miserable - But despite declining offers for help, my friend Doreen saved my life! A zillion thanks to her and TD for the help and dinner they gave to us! (Note to self...never move again)
Are you wondering WHY we moved across the street? Well, when we moved to AZ it all happened so quickly, and the market was on its way down, we decided to rent. The owner of our house had several other properties and well with the poor market right now, you can guess what happened - he let our house go into foreclosure. UGH! It was very stressful - I'm going to leave it at that!

Brittney's 12th Birthday!

This is the day she's been waiting for since she turned 11! Brittney is FINALLY 12 years old! Why so excited? Well, apparently everything "good" happens when you're 12! (duh) Brittney graduated from Primary (that's the children's organization at church) and now is able to attend Young Women's with their weekly activities, and summer girls camps, and start working on her goals in her Personal Progress book. She also will get to begin babysitting "outside" the home - for money! She's constantly reminding us of the "perks" of being 12, lol.

Brittney's new haircut - This was a huge deal! notice the "bangs" - OK well shorter hair around the face, although she has had other haircuts, off the length, this was her first, in the salon, wash with shampoo, layers, style, etc... the whole shabang! she couldn't stop smiling!

On Saturday morning, her Beehive class came over about 7am and "kidnapped" her for breakfast. As she casually lay watching TV, 3 girls came running in, with bandannas, and scarf covering their faces, grabbed her, and dragged her out the house, and off they went with their leaders for breakfast and bonding ... Olivia was quite upset and quizzed me for hours "I want my baby sissy back" (Mercedes is "sissy" therefore Brittney is "baby sissy") Even after I told her who the girls were, and that she was just going for breakfast and to have fun she didn't rest until Britt was safely home.

September 11 Remembered -

Hard to believe it was 7 yers ago that we watched in horor as airplanes crashed into the Twin Towers, The Pentagon, and a field killng so many. Hard to believe people could hate others so much - Many heros were born that day -
Brittney brought this video clip home from school.
It's called "Hero Painting" by Michael Israel -found on utube here's a link (be sure to click the bottom right square of the video clip - it will make it full size)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNjU1tc2GUo
Many thanks to heros everywhere - I'm proud to be an American!

Sponsors welcome -

UPDATE FOR SPONSORS -
1st payment has been made, and I have until October 15 to raise the remaining $400.00. So incase you were wondering what to get me for my "sweet 16" - lol.

Hey everybody – it’s me – Mercedes!
I am a Sophomore at Willow Canyon HS this year and turning 16 very soon! Yea!
I am playing Volleyball on the JV team this year – Being left handed is my secret weapon, LOL.
Anyway – why am I randomly writing to you? Well along with Volleyball, I am also in the Wildcat Marching Band! This is a very serious program (so stop laughing) and a lot is expected of us. You might remember my mom sending everyone she knew an email to watch for me in the ½ time show of the Super Bowl earlier this year- although we didn’t play our instruments in that Bowl game, we get a second chance! This December, our band will be going to San Diego to participate and PLAY in the ½ time show for the Holiday Bowl! We will also be taking part in workshops, and the Holiday Bowl Parade! We get to go to Sea World as well and hang out with the other bands playing in the ½ time show. It will be 5 days of hard work and tons of fun. The field will be full and it is going to be so awesome. Check out the promo video here – www.bgaevents.org/bgawebsite/marchingBands/video_player.asp?id=12
We have been asked to find personal sponsors to help us earn money for the trip. Total trip cost is just under $1000.00 and the 1st payment is due Sept 15! Yikes, I know!! So, I am writing to let you know of our plans and if you would like to help sponsor me, any amount will be greatly appreciated! (make checks to Jenni Taylor)
Also, 2 other fundraisers that are free and go into the general band fund are
Good search – This is a search engine – use just like you would use Google – only Type in "Willow Canyon High School Band" and for every “search” we get a penny! Go to www.goodsearch.com/ And let the searching begin, LOL.
Finally –escrip - go to www.escrip.com/ to "sign up"Type in “Willow Canyon High School Band” (caps important)
Our Group ID# 500001578Register your grocery store club cards from a participating merchant-- and your debit, ATM and Credit cards if you wish. That's it! Visit escrip merchants when you shop. Our band gets a percent - It's automatic!
Whew – well thanks for reading and helping me out, I know the September deadline is close, but remember if you live in AZ you have $400.00 in AZ Tax Credit you can donate as a married couple (haha) just kidding, but the school will send out receipts for your taxes. (Arizona Residents – make checks to Willow Canyon HS Band)Thanks again – I really appreciate your support! Go WILDCATS!

Big Weekend!

Well, it's Monday - we survived... If you're wondering what I'm talking about - let me take you back a few days! Tuesday - I'm being wifely - ironing, when the phone rings - "Hello?" - The Stake Presidents Secretary...(dun dun dun) says, "The Stake President would like to meet with you and wants you to bring your husband along." I spent several hours stressing wondering what the heck he could want me for, and in what Stake organization - (jumping ahead to the meeting) He asked about our kids and about what callings I have held in the church - (BTW I'm still panicing) Finally he asks if I was ready for my next calling in the Church. I said "Umm, sure" (brilliant huh) He then called me to be the next Bishops wife!
After the couple of seconds clicked by - Dean said, "We don't do that in this church, Bishop Smith already has a wife". (LOL) he then proceeded to tell Dean that He had been authorized by the First Presidency to call him to be the new Bishop of the Willow Canyon Ward. After about 30 minutes, we walked out of the office and I said, "Well, I feel a lot better!" We are completely humbled, and feeling the Lords love and strength today more than ever!
(Jump ahead to the weekend - Sunday) Ken and Taleen were on their way back to Kansas after visiting their kids in the west, so they came to Arizona - Kyle and Kara and their family came over from Glibert, Kay and Jerry Hartley and Otis and Cheri Henson and family all came to our Sacrament meeting - just incase the Stake Presidency sitting on the stand wasn't a give away of something big going on, you only had to look around the congragation, LOL dead give away - visiting family and new suit.
Anyway it was a wonderful day and once the testimonies were given, I felt a lot better. Color returned to Deans face, and the rest of the day was filled with family visiting...without Dean of course, he was in meetings. BTW Jeff Lunt is the 1st Counselor, and Lynn Johnson is the 2nd Counselor.
Here is our family picture - don't look to close, it might wind up being the Christmas picture this year too. :)

First Day of School - Whoo Hoo!

First Day of School

Well...I am full circle (again) At Willow Canyon HS Dowlin started his Senior year, Mercedes started her Sophomore Year. At Cimarron Springs Elementary Brittney Started 6th Grade and Zachery started 4th Grade on Monday August 11! It was a glorious day...

Until Olivia was frantically running around trying to gather paper and pencils to put in her "pack pack" - way to go Mom... Fear not though :) Olivia began her educational career this morning at Bloomin' Beginnings Preschool.

Hope you enjoy these pictures from the first days of school. Hang with me, I'll figure this blog thing out and you'll be begging me to stop posting pictures of the kids. So for all those of you who "can't believe Jenni of all people didn't have a blog" ... TaDa!

Life's A Beach - Oceanside, CA

On Wednesday the 22 of May school let out for the year and we all set our sites on California! We love the beach and had a week planed of just lounging on the beach and being together as a family. We're not sure how we got such great kids, you know, ones who don't mind hanging out with Mom and Dad, but we did. And we did just that "hung out".

We collected sea shells, played in tide pools, had a great visit with Jared and Amanda who just happened to be there on job related business. We had 2 wonderful visits and dinners with Great Grandma Dowlin. As she was leaving out place Friday evening, she wanted to get on the road before it got too dark, you see her eyes don't work as well in the dark... Dean asked her if she wouldn't mind recording a Public Safety Message for the state of Arizona! (HA HA - she thought that was funny)

Our Family with Great Grandma Dowlin

We swam in the ocean and the pool. We built a great sand castle village (Grandpa Wilson would be proud - I learned everything I know about building sand castles from him)

Preparing to build the ultimate sand castle -

On the Pier

We walked around Oceanside, along the beach, and out to the very end of the pier. It was lots of fun! Too many fishermen if you ask me. But we had fun "people watching" and the lifeguards were out on their daily training mission so we got to see them climb up then jump off the pier.

I'm not going to go into detail about the multiple members of our party who were so sunburned and blistered that the state didn't have enough Aleve, Aloe gel, or Solarcaine to kill the pain! Let's just say, after nearly 40 years of burning...you would think I'd be more into "prevention" instead of "treatment" - aparentally I really am as dumb as I look,. (LOL) I have to edit that - actually, not mentioning any names, but I came in 3rd behind the guys who's names start with "D"