Cara's 4th Birthday!!!

Happy Birthday Cara!!!

It finally came- Cara's Rainbow Birthday Party! We took soooo many pictures, I have to admit I've been procrastinating posting this blog- simply for the amount of time I knew it would take. I have to start off by telling how this all came to be. We went to Target one day (months and months ago) to look for a small acoustic guitar for Clinton. They had some really cute "Discovery" brand toys there and the one that caught Cara's eye was "Rainbow in my Room." It was a small lamp that shines colored lights onto a prism that reflects up onto the wall to form a rainbow. Very cute. She loved it- but it was almost $25.00- and I told her "maybe for your birthday." To say the very least- she held me to it. She started telling everyone, "Guess what? - I gotta rainbow!" Or sometimes- "I'm gettin a rainbow fer my birdt-day." I had no other choice- she HAD to have a rainbow birthday. So- we did all things rainbow. The balloons were in an arch with rainbow colors- streamers to match- the cake was a rainbow-(I spent about an hour and a half on frosting it- pleh.)- Skittles (so we could "taste the rainbow")- rainbow sherbet,rainbow banners, and even a rainbow pinata. She was so excited all day long- it's the perfect age for birthday parties, because she doesn't want her friends, she just wanted her WHOLE family. And there are a lot of times when Clinton attracts most of the attention from extended family members. Cara's so easy going and mellow I feel like she gets overlooked at times. She's amazing, I wish I could put a spotlight on her whenever I wanted and have the ability to show others what a blessing she is. So- for her birthday, it was delightful for Cara to get her day in the sun- or should I say- Rainbow. ;)

Cheeeeese! Ready to blow out candles...

Cara's rainbow blankeeee!

Poor daddy and his sunburned legs (from a fishing trip a few days prior)- He's not excited about me posting this picture, but it was a huge part of the day, unfortunately. He did what he could to help get ready for the party - including laying on the couch and blowing up 48 balloons! He was in MAJOR pain most of the day, but he's since blistered, peeled, and is now feeling much better.

Doug and Shannon- "happy as punch!"
Aunt Shellie, Cara loved her rainbow coordinated necklace.

Uncle Jeff, my handy helper- thanks Jeff!

Her beloved "Rainbow in my Room"- Except it doesn't stay in her room, Cara likes to make rainbows on every surface of the house. :)


Cutest brother!



YAY! A rainbow shirt and skirt- She's already worn it twice.

Grandma got her a hat and sunglasses set. Her other gift is coming in the mail, but Cara was completely happy with these. She loves her 'princess' hat.
This is the present Clinton took upon himself to unwrap- but there were no jealousy tears- so that was an accomplishment.



Look at that face!! She was ready to pummel that pinata!


Jilli taking her turn...
Clinton giving it a shot! Treyton finishing it off...

After it was busted to bits, Cara found a convenient place to store her candy. ;)

A great end to a great day. Cara is such a wonderful sister, daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, ect... I'm so blessed to be able to call her mine. Her spirit is as colorful as a rainbow. Happy fourth year babe!!!

Cara's Birthday!!!

We are very excited for this event. Cara has been looking forward to her own, self-proclaimed, "Rainbow Birthday Party" for months now. The girl is going to turn inside-out with excitement. I've already taken some pictures- but I will post them all as soon as I get the chance. I've got a lot of rainbows to make (including the cake)- so- wish me luck! ;)

Hard at yard work...

We have been hard at work this year trying to get our yard back in shape. Every year we try to add one or two things to make it special and this year it's finally looking like something I've been imagining. I planted some Iris bulbs (probably my favorite flower) last fall and had no idea what they would look like when or if they came up- so this Spring I was thrilled when they made their appearance. They're beautiful- this one was my favorite of all of them.


My dad had this fountain in his backyard and I've loved it since the first time I saw it. When we went down for the hot tub wire he gave it to me- I was ecstatic! Clint cleared out the spot I wanted it in and installed it for me (again, I praise his handy-nature) and I love it. It was a hot day and not too pleasant outside to be working, so I really appreciate his work!


His other, bigger project was a fountain for our backyard. we used to have a fairly large pond in this area and after having to fix leaks, retrieve rocks that had been thrown by nameless individuals, cleaning, and a couple of Cara's swims- we decided we'd better take it out. I've missed having 'water' in the yard since then. It's so peaceful to listen to. So Clint took me to Home Depot and I picked out the size and style I wanted and he made this fountain himself- (for much, much less than buying one pre-made) - It's beautiful and sounds lovely and fits perfectly in that spot. I need to plant a few more flowers and plants around it, but I think we will really enjoy it. Thanks Hon!!!

Clinton watered everything in sight while we worked...
And Meatball was his usual adorable self as he flashed a smile at me after our work was finished. He seemed pleased... ;)

Tee-ball pics...

Tee-ball has started again! This year we were very lucky because they had an extra spot on the team so they let Cara step in. She loves it- she wanted to play last year and had to hang in the stands with me because she was too young, but now she's out there with her bro and loving every second. This is Clinton's second year playing and he loves to go out there and try to hit "home-runs." Clinton got the coveted postion this year of choosing what team color the shirts would be, and what did he say??? "Hot Pink!!!!" - I'm sure all of the boys are real happy with him for that one. ;)
One of his teachers from Lincoln coaches (Megan) and so she's recruited a lot of kids from the school so most of them have some sort of handicap. They are adorable to watch and inspire every one in the stands to cheer and laugh. Very fun!

Clinton yelling "HIIIIIII!!! MOOOOOMM!!! While they tried to take team pictures. An interesting experience.




The team picture I got with my camera. They are all so cute!

Cara waiting as patiently as possible to begin her first game. My camera died right after team pics so I haven't got any action shots to post... I'll get them up as soon as I can.

Grandpa...

A couple of weeks ago we took a trip to Grandpa's house so Clint and Brian could wire his new hot tub. Brian, Jaz, Logan, Derrick, Doug and Shannon and all of us, squeezed into my dad's place and we had a ball. The guys got the hot tub wired the first night- so the next morning I woke to find my dad already soaking it up. Cara didn't leave him alone long, and soon after her Logan followed. They stayed in there quite awhile, we were only able to pry them away with the promise of blueberry pancakes. Here they are looking cute as can be...

Chatting with Grandpa...
Then just one week later, my dad was in town for the Klingler family reunion. We were so happy to be able to see him twice in one month! We celebrated Cara's birthday with him then, and he and La-la spoiled her rotten! They also brought Clinton a gift ( a tractor that he had quickly became obsessed with at grandpa's house the weekend before...) and he was gleaming with joy the second grandpa handed it to him at the door.

Cara waited while grandpa did the dirty work for her...(love the wrapping paper! ;)
I love this one! I think grandpa looks more excited than she does! It was a princess purse with keys and a cell phone- she loves it.

Grandma La-la showing Cara (biting her nails...just like her mother ;) her beautiful new princess dancing dress.

SOOOO Happy! A "how to dance like a princess" video kit! Hooo-ray!! (Cara has danced everyday since getting this gift- she's well on her way to dancing just like a princess.)
Love you Grandpa!!! Thanks for the birthday presents!

A Trip to Victor...

For Memorial day weekend Clint and Clinton got to go to the Father/son camp out for the ward. Cannon and Colton went too and the guys just hung out, ate great food and soaked up the outdoors. Meanwhile, I was busy planning the perfect girls outing with Cara. She and I got a lot of time together this past year (while Clinton was at school) and she's always been very easy to just 'take off' somewhere with. SO- Since I haven't been to Victor (where my mom is buried) since August of 2007, I decided to pack and load up some flowers to decorate her headstone and the many others that are buried up there with her and take off for a grgeous summer drive.

The night before we had our simple girls night out. We went to Perkins for dinner (Cara's only request was Strawberries- so I figured she would be pleased there) we had a delicious meal and then picked out a slice of pie for snacking during our movie later on, Yum.

The next morning we loaded up the flowers, got a tank full of gas and set off on our adventure. Victor is about 2-2 1/2 hours away, and once North of Idaho Falls it becomes very scenic and beautiful. We couldn't have chosen a better day for weather, the sun was shining- there was a slight breeze, and there were a few rainclouds chasing us to water the flowers we would leave behind.

When we finally got there, Cara stepped out of the car and marveled at how "amazing" it was. There were wind spinners, American flags, and flowers everywhere and she was having a hay-day placing the windblown flowers back on the headstones where they belonged.


She then helped me arrange the flowers just right for "Gramma Joan"
She was so particular about the flowers in fact, she took the ones that I had reserved for various aunts, uncles, grandparents, ect... and placed them carefully behind Gramma Joan's. I showed her how my name and Doug and Derrick's were engraved on the back. She put 3 geraniums on the ridge below them and said, " this one's for you, this one's for Doug and this one's for Derrick." It was so sweet- how could I argue. ;)

It's very peaceful there. The mountains surround the area and there's a creek that runs behind the trees, and a horse pasture to the side. Here are some other shots from either side of the cemetery.

We stopped by this beautiful river spot on the way home. The sun was shining and I couldn't resist a few more pictures of the scenery...







I gave Cara a movie to watch on the IPOD for the long drive home, she didn't even make it 20 minutes before zonking out. She even wore a hole in her pants from all of the hard work and effort she put into making every one's headstones as pretty as possible. It was such a fun day and a great opportunity to teach her about her ancestors. I'm so blessed with a daughter who genuinely enjoys doing things that I like to do. ;)

Oh Life...

OK- I've had wonderful intentions of getting all of my pictures up and writing about the last couple of weeks, but unfortunately we've all been sick and terribly busy on top of the sickness. I will try my best to get it done this weekend. Wish me luck!

Amazing Spirit...

This video is another testament to how resilient a child can be... this boy is nothing short of inspirational. His story touched me so much I had to post it. Hope you enjoy as much as I did.
Thanks for the info, Jeff!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/24839261#24839261

Totally random ramblings...

So i had HUGE plans of accomplishments that were going to be made during Summer Break. I'm getting there, but it's already exhausting! And we've already been SO busy! I have a bij-illion pictures that I want to put up...that will have to come later. Last weekend we visited Grandpa in Boise, Clint and Brian hooked up his new hot tub and we all got to soak in celebration...delightful...
We ventured to Wal-mart while the guys were working and I found the perfect "big-boy" bike for Clinton. It had very sturdy training wheels. a low seat, and it was Orange- one of his favorite colors. I brought Clint back to check it out and we tried to get Clinton on the seat to try it out- well, long story short...it was a no-go. He screamed he didn't want a "big-boy bike" he wanted a HELMET!!!! What kid on Earth prefers a helmet to a new bike?!?!
Meanwhile...Cara's cruising up and down the aisles on a "Big-girl" bike that's almost TOO big for her. So She got the new bike and Clinton got his helmet. Shannon believes he will jump from tricycles to motorcycles...completely skipping bicycles altogether. I'm starting to wonder if he will ever desire a bike. Hmmm... guess we'll see.
The weekend before that Cara and I took a trip to Victor (where my mother is buried) for Memorial day. The boys went to the father/son campout, and we were on our own. It was awesome. (More on that when I get the pictures up...)
I finally finished The Host a couple of weeks ago and really enjoyed it. The more I thought about it the more I liked it. It was one of those things that makes me step outside the box and try something new... (with this it was sci-fi)...I never thought I'd read a sci-fi novel. Lucky it was Stephenie Meyer, otherwise I never would have. It gave an interesting perspective on humanity. I really liked it. I can't wait til my kids get old enough to read through BIG books with. I tell you, I'll be in seventh heaven. - Speaking of Stephenie M. I read for her Breaking Dawn Signing she's touring with Justin Furstenfeld from Blue October... HOLY BEEF!... Why can't I be rich??? That tour is MADE for me!!! He's even singing SOPHD and Into the Ocean. Good grief. - But the closest city is Seattle...(depression setting in).... Hopefully I'll be able to catch some Q&A online.
Sad. :(
On another depressing note- I've been trying to organize my desk and scrapbooking supplies for 2 days now. In one word... Overwhelming. I'm drudging through it-but good golly- it's taken a lot of time. I'll be so happy when it's over - I probably could have had it done in a couple of hours without my children around. I began to remember how difficult it is in summertime to accomplish anything. But, I'm trying and that's all that matters...right???
On the bright side- the Tahoe is finally fixed!!! (from Clint's little run-in with the fence... ARGH!!!) I took it in Monday and thought it would be in the shop all week. (Which was ok with me because I had an awesome rental - a brand new Chevy Malibu...I know... It doesn't sound that exciting, but it really was a sweet car. )- Anyway, they called me this morning and told me it was done! I was very excited to see it and it looks phenomenal! No longer will I have the anger rush every time I look at the back fender. It will be much better for my marriage I'm sure... wink-wink. ;)

My first Pregnancy...

1. WAS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY PLANNED? Yes

2. WERE YOU MARRIED AT THE TIME? Yes, for about 2 years.

3. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? Very excited, it almost felt kind of surreal- like someone was playing a trick on me.

4. WAS ABORTION AN OPTION FOR YOU? never.

5. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 19

6. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? When I took a test. - Then I went over to Shellie's house where she literally made me drink almost a gallon of water so that I could take another test at her house, which was also very positive.

7. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? Clint and I found out together, then Shellie- and I can't remember who was next...

8. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Oh yes- I'm too much of a 'planner' Not to find out.

9. DUE DATE? November 29nd, 2001.

10. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? Yes, I was teaching Kindergarten at the time and I remember throwing up in the garbage can in front of the kids a couple of times- poor things.- Poor me too! :)

11. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? I always got my cravings AFTER I had my kids, with Clinton it was grilled cheese sandwiches for about 3 months! Every meal- I couldn't get enough of them- that and anything I could drench in soy sauce- I could have drank the stuff if it was socially acceptable... ;) (must've had a need for sodium, eh?)

12. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? Feeling sick and tired and not being able to take care of things myself.

13. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CHILD'S SEX? boy

14. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? No, I wanted a boy- but I thought I was having a girl. - So, I was very glad when I found out.

15. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? 27 lbs. in six months.

16. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? I had a shower after he was born because he was so early- nobody had planned that far in advance. It was a great shower, but I remember being really nervous to be away from the hospital for so long.

17. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? I knew

18. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? I had Polyhydramnios (excess water- my body wasn't ridding itself of fluid)- so I gained weight REALLY fast and went from barely showing to full-term size in a matter of 2 months... I was sent to Ogden, UT where they did tests and drew some of the water out by amniocentesis (ouch...) and that put me into early labor. (PS-they were going to take him early anyway-because he was so sick, but they wanted an extra couple of days to get steroids in for his lungs- we didn't get that far though.)

19. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? McKay-Dee Hospital, Ogden ,UT.

20. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? A total of 24 - I was contracting when we got to Utah and I thought they were just Braxton-hicks until they put me on the monitor and checked me. (Then drawing the excess fluid out made me progress much faster.)

21. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? Clint

22. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? Just Clint, we were a special room where they could operate and tend to the baby's CPR needs. So only he was allowed. ( I wouldn't have had anyone else anyway... ;)

23. WAS IT NATURAL OR C-SECTION? Natural.

24. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? Yes, I had an epidural- it was all pretty (physically) painless.

25. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGH? 1 lb. 11 oz.

WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN? On August 22, 2001. At 10:15 pm. (Three months/ 13 weeks early.)

27. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Clinton Ross Corrington

28. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? He will be 7 in August! :)

2 Days old...
About a year and a half...
Six years...

More pics and tunes...

Here are a few random pics from last week:

Cadie and Cara dancing to the Enchanted soundtrack...

Clinton and his teacher at Chubbuck, Mrs. Haber.
Mrs. Christensen, Clinton, and Mrs. Jones (his favorite)
I made grape play-doh for the kids last weekend and it entertained them for half the day. Clinton drove his monster trucks in it and made tracks and jumps for them.
Cara played the more traditional way with cookie cutters and plastic knives.

I loved watching them play- it reminded me once again that sometimes the simpler things are the ones that are the most fun. Plus- play-doh is just awesome. :)

New tunes- I bought the Linkin Park Meterora CD and Clint and I have been jammin to that quite a bit- it's an older CD- but it has really good songs on it. I like them all. Plus- it gives me a good reason to listen to the new system in my car that the hubs gave me for Mother's day- it's awesome. He installed everything in himself- and he did a GREAT job- it's perfect. He's so handy! ;)
I also got a couple of Natasha Bedingfield songs- Pocketful of Sunshine (that's a radio release)- Pirate Bones, and Happy- they're all pretty good. I like her writing-she's carefree and fun- good summer songs. ;)