Hudson Family

The frist day of our DISNEYLAND trip with Papa Hal!!!

2012-01-16T00:35:00.010-07:00

Hide & No Beak

2012-01-09T19:35:00.002-07:00

One of our favorite games to play at the house these days is what Saigey refers to as "Hide & No Beak". It typically consists of Bracken counting, Saige running into her closet and Skylar hiding behind the door. When I get done counting, they both jump out and tell me that I've found them. I love playing with my little girls at night when I get home from work and thoroughly enjoy the weekends when I get to spend 2 days with them.

Expenses of little children......

2012-01-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

Yup! It was actually 36 cents = $106 but close enough. For about a month we had been having problems with the stereo in the Honda Accord. We weren't sure if we had blown a fuse, had a short in the speakers somewhere or what the issue was. I finally decided to take it in to have it looked at.....
Dropped it off at Stockton 12 Honda dealer in Sandy. About 2 hours later they called me back and asked if I had any small children. I told them yes and they proceeded to tell me that someone had jammed a quarter, a nickel and 6 pennies into the cd player and tape player (yes they are still around). It was causing major issues so they took the cd player apart, removed the 36 cents and $106 dollars later, we were good to go! I will save the invoice for Saige to pay when she gets older!

Full Circle Work Flow Cycle

2011-05-31T14:16:00.003-06:00

This year seems to be another interesting year in the household. Residential cabinets have become increasingly slow which has caused me to look elsewhere for employment. For those who have been in business for themselves would understand, there are definitely ups and downs. The comfort of a consistent paycheck and a lower-stress environment were on the top of my list as I thought about where to end up. The timing couldn't have been better as Hal is in need of some help with a ton of work coming up at the Salt Lake International Airport. I worked for AIS briefly before and after my mission which was a great experience. I did need to spread my wings however and try somethings out on my own which has been an amazing learning experience and which I wouldn't change for a anything. I believe both Talia & I are looking forward to the new change and although change is always difficult, we welcome the new opportunity and are grateful to have something already lined up!

Soccer

2011-04-28T14:09:00.000-06:00

I grew up playing soccer so when Real Salt Lake made it to the finals of the Concacaf League Tournament, I definately wanted to go. Hal was talking on the phone with me as they were playing the game in Monterrey and we decided to get tickets (and of course with Hal, they had to be the best!) We had a great time at the game sitting in the best seats in the house. We tried doing dinner at Ruby River before the game but getting seated then waiting for food took too long and we had to walk out. Even though they lost in one of the biggest games in US soccer history, I Love watching soccer and love spending time with my pops.

Irish dancing

2011-01-26T15:39:00.006-07:00

Girls night out!! Grandma wanted to take the girls to see the Irish dancer's at the Scera. It was a lot of fun Skylar loved it so much. When we were leaving she said "mom can we come again tomorrow night" It was a fun night.
(grandma Antonino, Grandma Jones, aunt Tecia, Emily and Skylar and mom)

sKyLaR the ClOwN

2011-01-14T14:50:00.002-07:00

Our Smart little Saige

2011-01-14T12:45:00.007-07:00

Hopefully She will be a good student one day. We hope she is like her daddy not her mom in this department!! SAIGE-Y LOVES WEARING GLASSES XOXO

Movie day with Grandma

2011-01-05T15:03:00.013-07:00

Grandma wanted to the grand kids to the movie Tangled. This was the first time Saige has gotten to go to the Movies and it started out OK and by the end we were doing a lot of running around. I knew she was still little but we took her anyway. she loved the treats and popcorn. Skylar and I already saw Tangled on Thanksgiving day but she has been bugging to see it again. I think this will be her first Disney movie that she really loves. It was fun to go with Grandma and our cute little Logan who we love. Thanks for a fun afternoon Grandma!

Snow Day.......

2011-01-04T16:44:00.013-07:00

Brack came home from work and decided that he was going to build a snow cave in the front yard since we got so much snow. The girls and I watched him for awhile through the window, but Sky and Saige really just wanted to be out there with dad having fun in the snow. Sky got to go out and make snow angels with dad they had so much fun! Saige only got to go out for a picture. Thanks for being such a fun Daddy Brack. xoxo

Saige-y Baby

2011-01-03T16:25:00.009-07:00

I just want to eat her Up!!!! She is so StInkINg cUtE!!!

Sky the dress up queen!!

2011-01-03T16:09:00.009-07:00

Skylar loves dressing up! She honestly changes her clothes at least ten times a day. These are just two wardrobe changes. Love you cute girl!!

skylar the sunbeam!!!!

2011-01-02T22:11:00.004-07:00

So today was Skylar's first day as a sunbeam in primary, well let's just say mom and sky were both crying and they weren't tears of joy that my baby is growing up. Why is it that it's always the bishops kids that are the ones getting in trouble? Well in my Case I'm the primary president and its my child who is being naughty ! She had me so frazzled that I couldn't even conduct because I was crying so bad. I think she got my emotions all stirred up. She didn't want to be there she wanted to go back to nursery and have snacks. She kept yelling I really really want to go home and take a nap pretty sad that the primary pres. Couldn't control her own child. Let's just say it was not a fun first day of primary for me or sky. Let's just pray next week will be better. I did this post so one day sky and I can read it together and hopefully have a good laugh together maybe I will save it for when she has her first child going into primary. Even though you made mommy cry today Sky I still love you soooooo much and I am so excited to have you in the primary with me.

Our Family

2010-12-29T13:30:00.007-07:00

The Hudson's 2010

Saige Diane Hudson

2010-12-29T12:49:00.009-07:00

Our Funny little Saige! She is our funny girl she is all her daddy okay she has a little bit of her mom's temper but mostly her dad thank goodness. Saige is 16 months and all she wants to do is keep up with Sky. She thinks she is just as big as her big sister. We love having our two little girls so close to each other. I now understand how the heart just gets bigger with each child. I remember how worried I was about loving my 2ND as much as my 1st but I now understand that I have so much love to give. I love my sweet little girls more then life. I feel very blessed to have these sweet little souls in my life.

Skylar Vickie Hudson

2010-12-29T12:23:00.005-07:00

Our first born Skylar, Wow! Our beautiful little Sky she just turned 3years old I can't believe how fast time passes by. there is nothing like having a tiny little baby placed in your arms for the first time. Becoming a mother has changed my life for the good. Skylar has a tender little heart she loves her family very much she loves music, dancing , dressing up & coloring. She just started pre-school and is loving it. She is a smart little girl. We are so grateful for her. And we love her so very much.

The Love of my Life

2010-12-29T12:01:00.003-07:00

We met ten years ago thanks to Bracken's sister Sasha.
He is the love of my life I am the luckiest girl in the world. Bracken has blessed my life in so many ways and has so far given me two Beautiful girls. Thank you Sweetheart for all you have given me. I love you forever xoxoxo

Cotton Candy!! Yummy

2010-12-29T11:54:00.005-07:00

So all the girls at our house LOVE cotton Candy, so for Christmas they got a cotton candy machine. I'm not sure who was more excited Sky, Saige or Mommy!!! Cotton Candy all year long:)

Saige-y Baby

2010-12-29T11:47:00.005-07:00

Saige wanted to help Mommy clean the fridge, I turned away for one min. and there she went right in to the fridge. Saige has a funny little personality she is a lot like her Daddy. Saige is 16 months old

Jeffrey "Ryan" Hill (1977 -2010)

2010-12-26T16:06:00.004-07:00

Ryan Hill

2010-11-11T16:02:00.000-07:00

Jeffrey Ryan Hill

"Ryan" - "Rex" - "Rarly" - "My Best Friend"

1977 ~ 2010

Our beloved husband, father, son, brother, grandson, and friend, Ryan Hill, passed away on November 5, 2010, doing what he loved - riding his dirt bike in the desert west of Nephi. His death was the result of a tragic accident on a beautiful autumn day.

Ryan, age 32, was born in Provo, Utah, on November 17, 1977, the oldest child of Jeffrey William and Sherrie Lynn Chynoweth Hill. Growing up in Orem, he graduated from Mountain View High School in 1996. He faithfully served a full-time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the New York, New York, North Mission. (1997-1999) Shortly after his mission, Ryan met the love of his life, Mandalie Anne Grow. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on June 29, 2000. Together they created their masterpieces - McKay Ryan (8), Ellie Mandalie (6) Clara Anne (3), and Hazel Jane (4 months).

Ryan attended Utah Valley University, where he was very involved with student leadership in the Student Alumni Association and UV Leader Program. He graduated in 2002 with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration.

Upon graduation, Ryan was recruited by Toll Brothers Construction a national home building company, which given his background was a natural fit. With Toll Brothers, Ryan and Mandy worked and lived in Pennsylvania, Las Vegas, and finally Reno, Nevada. Reno felt very much like home where they made wonderful friends and expanded their family. While in Reno, Ryan's adventurous spirit propelled them into the restaurant business as they opened a new Bajios restaurant. Ryan worked tenaciously to make the restaurant a success. After two years, the restaurant was sold and Ryan and Mandy decided to bring their beautiful family back to Utah. Once back home, the opportunity came for Ryan to work again with his father, which he did until the time of his death.

Ryan's proudest accomplishment was marrying his eternal companion, Mandy, and having the opportunity of being "Dad" to his four amazing children. He was an extraordinary husband and father who loved spending time with family and helping them experience the joys of life.

Besides loving, caring, and playing with family, Ryan's passion was the great outdoors. He loved dirt biking, skiing, wake boarding, cycling and anything that made his heart pound and his adrenaline rush. His dare-devil antics typically scared the life out of those who were trying to keep up with him. Ryan was always first to try everything.

Ryan was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He willingly accepted any call he was given. He had a wonderful way of relating to young people that made him a loved leader in the Young Men and Scouting Programs. His ability to share his unwavering testimony of the Gospel blessed the hearts of all who heard it.

Ryan lived life to the fullest, packing more into his few years than most people experience in a lifetime. We're already missing his infectious laugh and contagious, beaming smile.

Ryan is survived by his beautiful wife, Mandy, his four children, his parents, and his siblings, Trevor (Holly) Hill, McKensie (Aaron) Bingham, Whitnie (Nick) Alexander, and Jackson Hill all of Utah Valley. He is also survived by his grandparents, Dick and Donna Hill and Reuben and Rose Chynoweth. All of his Grow relatives felt it such a privilege to be part of his family.

Funeral services for Ryan were held Thursday, November 11, 2010, at 11 a.m. in the Orem East Stake Center, 600 North 800 East, Orem.

Viewing was held Wednesday evening, November 10, 2010, from 6-8 p.m. at the Walker Sanderson Funeral Home, 646 East 800 North, Orem.

We're so grateful for the outpouring of love and remembrance. Ryan, we miss you already.

Skylar BDay Part I

2010-11-07T18:06:00.000-07:00

For Skylar's birthday, all she wanted to do was ride a pony. We are so lucky to have good friends that own them so we made a phone call and it was a done deal. Thanks Lis & kids! She had such a great time. We are still trying to figure out where her love of ponies and horses comes from.....Here are a few pics from the day we took her riding.

Kenny was so good to trail Skylar around for over an hour. Thanks for sharing your pony!

Talia and Saige taking a turn. Saige & Bracken weren't too sure of horses....

Lis taking Skylar on the big horse. She was in heaven!

Skylar wanted to ride on the big horse soooo bad. You can see that didn't last 5 seconds!

Sky the cowgirl. Love the boots and the hat!

Bracken with his 2 girls.

The Childers Clan. Thanks for the fun horse ride!

Funny Face

2010-11-05T09:36:00.000-06:00

Skylar has recently been on a kick telling everyone "show me your funny face". One afternoon, she wanted to show daddy her funny faces and I caught them on camera. What a cutie! We love you Sky Sky.

Saige 1 Year Bday Party

2010-09-14T13:22:00.000-06:00

Saige turns 1!

2010-09-14T13:12:00.000-06:00

We weren't too sure how she would do with her first birthday cake but as you can tell, she has a sweet tooth (just like her mother). :)

Big Girl Skylar!

2010-08-22T19:00:00.004-06:00

Yesterday (and today) we have gone complete with no accidents. After several attempts at "training", she finally decided she was ready and that was that. We are so proud of our "Big Girl"!

Side Note:
Previous attempts included but not limited too: Talia making a "Potty Train Chart" with her cricut, endless bribes & threats of Saige becoming a big girl first but we have concluded that she finally decided in her own head that she was ready.

saige blessing book

2010-01-08T14:48:00.001-07:00

| View Sample Photo Books | Create your own Photo Book

Christmas Morning

2010-01-03T18:33:00.006-07:00

Talia was SO excited this year that we actually woke Skylar up to open presents. Although not pictured, we do have a second daughter that slept through Christmas morning and made it enjoyable for the rest of us. We rushed to Talia's moms, Talia's dads and Bracken's dads all on Christmas day after we did our own thing. It was a very busy day!

Talia's main gift was a new pair of running shoes. This was all of the picture allowed to be shown.

Brack's favorite gift was a calendar for his desk with pictures of the girls.

Skylar is starting to get into Dora the Explorer and got "backpack"

She also got a little trike that she loves. She loads up other toys into the back of it and loves to get pushed around the house. This was a very fun Christmas because Skylar loved opening presents and helping others open theirs.

Christmas Eve Breakfast

2009-12-24T15:09:00.001-07:00

One of our family traditions is to get together with the Tom & Michelle Bankhead family and the Scott & Rissa Telford family. We went up to Mapleton this year and had a great breakfast, story & game of bingo. Santa came and brought suckers to all the good boys and girls.

Here are some of the highlights...

Not to mention, in the Bingo game,

Bracken won

And Talia won

But Di & Rissa will have to keep practicing for next year

Unofficial Christmas Card

2009-12-23T14:58:00.001-07:00

This was GOING to be the Christmas card until mom decided not to include adults in the Official card. I like the picture so I wanted to post it. Merry Christmas - Love, The Hudson's

Santa #1

2009-12-20T15:01:00.000-07:00

Talia was brave enough to take Jack, Paisley, Logan, Skylar & Saige down to Tecia's work to see Santa Clause. Bracken showed up towards the end just in time to see how cute they all were. Logan found mom and wasn't too interested in Santa anymore and Saige was sleeping.
We have been lucky this year to be able to swap kids on days when mom's work so Skylar has had a TON of fun with her cousins. And yes, they are ALL her favorite cousins so save the posts (Hallee, Jack, Paisley, Logan & Ryder).

Baby Saige

2009-10-28T15:33:00.007-06:00

Here is our cute little Saige Diane Hudson

More to come.

Our Girls

2009-09-30T21:47:00.000-06:00

Saige Diane Hudson 9-14-2009

2009-09-14T19:29:00.000-06:00

Our Beautiful 2nd child was born. We feel very blessed to have two healthy beautiful girls.

Brack's Softball Games

2009-09-04T02:15:00.003-06:00

Bracken has been playing softball with some guys from the ward. Their name is very appropriately "Sweaty Mess". Talia has enjoyed coming to the double headers on Thursday nights but Skylar has a blast cheering on her dad. Here are the only worthwhile pictures of the season....

Not to mention, Skylar took 2 of the 3 pictures. Can you guess which?

Skylar's New Bedroom

2009-08-30T11:19:00.003-06:00

We decided to keep the new baby's bedroom closest to ours so we are in the process of moving Skylar rooms. Talia picked out a bedding set that she loved and we picked colors around that. With the help of my cousin Luke, we have repainted, hung beadboard and chair rail. Almost finished with that part! I still need to repaint a dresser and build a bed so we will see if that all gets done before the new baby.

Utah Lake

2009-08-29T02:19:00.000-06:00

Even with the busy summer, we made it out to the lake a couple times. Here are some of the pics....Thanks Brett for inviting us twice this whole summer! :)

Hogle Zoo 2009

2009-08-23T11:30:00.000-06:00

We decided to take Skylar up to the zoo before the new baby comes. She had a blast! I can't believe how much she has grown up since the time we were there last year. She loved to copy what the monkey's did and growled at the lion. It was a beautiful day and we had a great time.

I had to post a last year picture to remind ourselves how fast she is growing!

Hudson Potato Farm

2009-08-16T11:44:00.000-06:00

We went down to Santaquin to dig up the new potato's. It was a first for many of us but I have a feeling it won't be the last! We had a great time and there were way too many cute pictures to just post so I thought a slideshow would be best. We have eaten our share of the potato's and I can saw that Poopsie knows how to do it! We missed him dearly but are sure glad to still have more time with Bunny.

Utah County Fair

2009-08-15T02:07:00.000-06:00

You would think in a county with over a half million people, we would have a decent county fair. Wow, what a disappointment. Regardless of the 12 vendor booths, 4 food vendors and the fair being in Spanish Fork.....Skylar still had a great time. Don't think we will be returning next year though.

4th of July - Kanab 2009

2009-07-04T02:38:00.000-06:00

Wayne, Diane, Bracken, Talia, Skylar & Hallee all went down to the Johnson Family reunion in Kanab over the 4th of July this year. Bracken & Wayne golfed, the family supported in the city parade and we had a nice gathering at the church. One of the highlights had to be the 4 hour auction, wow! Regardless, we had a great experience spending time with Grandma and Grandpa and getting to know our relatives a little better. Di was especially excited when we got to go to Moqui Cave and she was reunited with an old flame (Les). We even learned where their first kiss was inside the cave. WOO WOO! :)

Camping

2009-06-20T03:01:00.000-06:00

Skylar and Bracken went camping for the weekend up Nephi canyon with Papa Hal, Tosh, Mac Jack, Ryder and Kiley. We stopped in Santaquin then stayed at Camper's World in the motorhome. We also went fishing at Burston's pond before a rainstorm hit. A great time was had by all.

Cousins

2009-06-06T03:09:00.000-06:00

Skylar LOVES getting together with her cousins and playing. I think she gets bored of mom and dad all the time! Here are some pics from this summer spending time with Hallee, Jack, Paisley, Logan & Ryder.

Wheeler Farm

2009-05-17T10:54:00.003-06:00

Since Bracken is heading to Africa, we decided to take a family day up to Wheeler Farm in Salt Lake. Both of us had been there many years ago but it was fun to take Skylar back for an afternoon. The weather was excellent and she had a lot of fun. Isn't it so cute how dad and Skylar matched? :)
Here are some of the pics from our day...

Kristopher's BDay '09

2009-05-10T11:38:00.000-06:00

We went to the cemetary to say hello to our little buddy Kristopher. Daddy was talking to Skylar about her uncle and she seemed to already know him. She loved giving his picture kisses. What a special day.

Happy Mother's Day Talia!

2009-05-10T08:39:00.002-06:00

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-20T11:29:00.000-06:00

Sasha and her kids went up to Seattle this year so we only had 1 Easter Egg hunt over at Grandpa Pete's. He prepares weeks in advance to make sure the hunt is well prepared and exciting for all the grandkids, AND KIDS! We had a great time. We forgot Skylar's cute Easter basket at home so we were stuck using a plastic sack. UGHHH!!!! Oh well, I guarantee next year the pictures will be a little cuter without an Albertson's bag as an Easter basket.

Easter 2009

2009-04-20T10:48:00.000-06:00

Talia got together with Tecia and all the kids this year to make Easter eggs. Skylar did well but wasn't too sure about the coloring on her hands afterwards.

Flying Kites

2009-04-16T11:45:00.000-06:00

Uncle Travis & Aunt Tyra decided to take Skylar to fly a kite at the elementary school by grandma Vickie's house. She did well....for about 10 minutes. Thanks for the great kite flying memories Aunt Tyra & boy Orton!

Draper Temple Open House

2009-03-22T10:57:00.003-06:00

We tagged along with Di & Hallee (more than anything for the handicap parking) to the Draper, UT temple open house. What a beautiful temple inside & out. Skylar was surprisingly good so it was enjoyable for everyone. It was neat to see how excited Hallee was to someday be able to enter there & do baptisms. Everything went great until the ride home when Hallee thought it was pretty funny that Skylar found the inside of her nose with her finger!

Sping has arrived!

2009-03-22T10:41:00.004-06:00

This past week has been so nice outdoors that my girls decided to come over not once but twice for a picnic at the ponds by my office. Skylar absolutely LOVES being outside! The also has a "cheese" face when you are taking her pictures now. So dang cute! She also loves giving "kisses" to her mom and dad. She loved feeding the ducks & occasionally herself as well! :)

Baby #2

2009-03-22T09:18:00.002-06:00

We are officially spreading the news that we are having baby #2! We are due at the end of September which will make our kids ALMOST 2 years apart which is kind of what we were shooting for. Any guesses on if it will be a boy or girl by the ultrasound pic?

2009-03-06T20:13:00.000-07:00

Christmas Eve Brunch

2008-12-28T21:30:00.003-07:00

Every year we get together with the Bankhead's & Telford's for a Christmas Eve brunch, story reading, Santa visit & bingo. This year it was in Mapleton and we had a great time with friends & family! We also won $50 playing BINGO so thanks Santa!

Christmas Party

2008-12-28T21:29:00.001-07:00

Skylar & I heading out to the Fairbanks family Christmas Party. Talia wasn't feeling well so we had to go without her. I love her Christmas sweater & hat. She is such a little cutie!

Festival of Tree's

2008-12-28T21:25:00.003-07:00

We went up to Salt Lake to see the Festival of Tree's with Ryan & Mandy Hill. We had a great time with the kids & thanks to the Hill's for letting us tag along!

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-28T21:14:00.003-07:00

This year we went to St. George for Thanksgiving. "Princess Trends" had a booth at a boutique show the weekend after so we all trucked down for what we thought was going to be a relaxing weekend. We ate at Chuck-A-Rama for Thanksgiving lunch (not recommended ever) and had fun playing games. Unfortunately, grandpa Johnson wasn't feeling well and ended up back in Orem Thursday night with a case of pnemonia. Wayne got to (had to) take them home and unfortunately didn't come back down.
The girls had an awesome show (their best to date) and we had a relaxing weekend!

Skylar was taking her nap and Paisley came in to wait for her to wake up. She was so quiet and patiently waited for her little cousin.

Most of the time it's a fight who has to push the other one but they sure are cute!

Hudson Family shot

Hallee and Sky sure have fun playing together. She is the oldest cousin on Bracken's side and is so great to have around to help keep Sky out of trouble.

Modern Technology

2008-12-28T21:10:00.002-07:00

I think it's pretty sad that Skylar knows how to put on the headset when we get in the car. She barely turned 1! I can't imagine how our parents and grandparents ever traveled farther than 30 miles without a tv in the car.

Cousin Sleepovers

2008-12-28T21:04:00.003-07:00

It's very nice to have family live so close. We got Jack & Paisley overnight a couple weeks ago then a few nights later we got Ryder. Skylar is lucky to have cousins that are somewhat close to her age and she loves playing with them.

It is so funny that Skylar has never gotten into binkies. She chews on them and thinks it's funny to have one in her mouth about once every month or two. Glad we won't have the problem of having to take it away someday!

It's good for Skylar & Ryder to get together since they are both "only children" for now they are learning how to share (or not share) with eachother. We love little Spider-Man!

Some people say that Skylar & Paisley look alike. Not sure about that one but they both are pretty cute!

Boo Boo Chicken, Pai Kitty & Super Sky with Uncle Brack

Luncheon

2008-12-28T20:59:00.003-07:00

TIME TO UPDATE!

I am starting to think it's easier for me to sit down and do like 10 posts all at once rather than doing one every other day. Probably not very fun for the family and followers but deal with it! :)

Last month while I was hunting in Colorado our good friend Jocelyn Crowther Clark and her little boy Langston came into town and Talia went to lunch with them. Since she doesn't have a blog (hint hint), I will post a picture of the cute little guy for all the high school friends to see. Thanks for being such good friends and hopefully we'll see you in St. George soon!

Jocelyn & Lanston

Skylar chowing down...

One of those moods....

2008-11-24T20:16:00.007-07:00

Anyone that has been around Skylar knows that when asked to give a kiss to someone, she opens her mouth wide open. I think that means her parents are in trouble! (Must take after her mother)

Getting ready to pray and bless the food.

She was being so funny the other night. She would try and copy anything that Talia or I would do with our mouths and she got pretty dang close on a lot of occasions. WHAT A CUTIE!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-24T19:49:00.003-07:00

The Hill's came over and went Trick-or-Treating with us in the neighborhood Ryan and I grew up in which is now our ward. It was a lot of fun (especially watching Talia get candy for Skylar? - uh huh!)

Grandma Victoria with Emily, Logan & Sky Sky

Talia was in charge of the ward's "truck or treat". She did an excellent job! Here are a few pics from that activity.

Chicks dig the 'stache!

2008-11-24T19:43:00.002-07:00

You would think after several years of dating and several years of being married that Talia would know better than to "DARE" me to shave my beard and leave a 'stache. Worked out perfect for the Halloween costume as well.

Skylar finds marshmellows

2008-11-24T19:40:00.002-07:00

One of Skylar's new favorite treats are marshmellows. So much for thinking she could eat a few on her own! What a guilty face.............

Princess Trends

2008-11-01T21:38:00.004-06:00

So It is official Princess Trends is up and running! We are in the Tutu business. Check out our blog at www.princesstrendsblogspot.com We are ready to make your little princess her own special tutu.

Weekend Show

2008-10-16T22:50:00.001-06:00

Instead of deer hunting with her husband, Talia decided to enter a booth this weekend in the "What a Woman Wants" Expo show in Park City. She will be up there doing Glitter Toes with the salon and selling her tutu's & onesies (see previous posts). I wish her the best and if any of the girls out there aren't out looking for deer with their husbands, you ought to check the show out and say hi to my honey!

St. George Marathon '08

2008-10-13T23:11:00.003-06:00

We went down to St. George last weekend to watch Wayne run in the marathon. Despite horrible running conditions (Rain & Wind in their face) he finished in a great time of 3 hours & 26 minutes. I don't think I could bike 26 miles in that time but way to go Wayne. Here are a few pics of the weekend that included a lot of conference watching, golfing, shopping & making more tutu's! Thanks again for the trip Di & Wayne and MAYBE just MAYBE we will run in the marathon with you one of these years.

Nose Hair Waxing?!?

2008-10-13T23:06:00.002-06:00

I'm not really sure what to comment on and I'm not sure how long Talia will leave these pictures on the blog but last week her sister Tyra, brother Todd, and sister-in-law Nicole decided to wax their nose hairs????!!!!! If you would like to learn more about this (not sure why you would) feel free to email my wife.

Classic

2008-10-13T23:05:00.002-06:00

Your classic baby meets toilet paper pictures!

FINALLY!!!!!

2008-10-13T21:54:00.002-06:00

Skylar is ALMOST to the one year and 20 lbs. minimum limit to be able to ride in a front facing car seat. She is going crazy laying down facing backwards in the car. She has learned from her older cousins that it is much more fun to sit and watch TV & movies while traveling. Talia decided to ger her the seat and take some pictures because she is so dang cute and was so excited trying out the front-facing seat. We are excited to put the DVD players in the headrests to work FINALLY!

Thinking Back.....

2008-10-13T20:29:00.002-06:00

Talia and I were talking the other night about what's going on in the world around us the past few months and will be interesting to look back a year from now to see how the world has or hasn't changed.

Some of the notable events that have taken place recently:

Congress recently passed the bail-out (excuse me: rescue) package of 700 Billion dollars. Our country is definately moving towards socialism which makes me sick to even think about.

Senators Barack Hussein Obama II & John McCain have been debating it our for the presidential nomination. Is there a lesser of the two not so great options? I question had the economic crises began a little earlier in the year would Mitt Romney have obtained the Republican nomination had the debates been more economic based than "buzzwords & timetables"?

Stock market dropping over 2400 points (22%) over an 8 day period then gaining back 936 points (11%) in just one day.

National unemployment rate above 6% the highest in over 5 years.

Bubble bursting in the U.S. housing market.

National gas prices sky rocketings to an all time high average of $4.12 (7/17/2008) and finally beginning to drop to an average of $3.13 (10/13/2008).

Cost of living as demonstrated in the mere rise of food sharply increasing.

Finger pointing could go on for hours on who, what, when, where, why and how this has affected so many familes nation and worldwide but we count our blessings for the many wonderful blessings we enjoy. Gospel, family, friends and health are definately at the top of our lists of things we are grateful for. We truly pray for those who are less fortunate than we are at this time (especially going into the winter months) and again are so grateful for all we have been blessed with.

St. George

2008-10-12T21:04:00.006-06:00

We decided to sneak in a quick trip down to St. George with Grammee and Papa Wayne. The boys golfed while the girls shopped and made Tutu's. Here are some pics from our fun weekend getaway. Thanks Di & Wayne for a fun trip!

Hanging out in her "Speed Boat"

Cooling off in the pool and having fun with daddy.

Chillin' getting ready for the pool.

Sky with Grammee Di & Papa Wayne at the pool.

Skylar & Dad hanging out poolside.

Sky Sky still loves swinging. Any chance we get to take her to the park she has an awesome time!

Skylar loves to get pulled around the house in hampers!

State Fair 2008

2008-10-01T22:49:00.000-06:00

You gotta love the Utah State Fair. Where else can you go and People Watch the most W.T. people on earth? It is like the annual gathering where you can come show off your mullet and wear your basketball jersey at the same time and not feel out of place. This was definately for Skylar and she loved every minute of it. I think the pony ride was her favorite as she waved to all the onlookers. She loved checking out the animals and learned how to point where she wanted to go. Talia had to get a carmeled apple and we were accompanied by Tyra, Victoria and Mike. Thanks for a fun time and we can't wait to go again next year.

The love of our lives!

2008-09-26T00:15:00.003-06:00

She is the reason we want ten more, she is the greatest joy in our lives. We love you Super Sky.

Thankyou Karen for taking such beautiful pictures.

Baby Blue Sky

2008-09-26T00:12:00.001-06:00

I love this picture. This is why she is Sky, somehow I just knew she would have beautiful blue eyes.

Family Photo

2008-09-26T00:11:00.002-06:00

Brack and Talia trying to be SEXY!

2008-09-26T00:04:00.002-06:00

Over labor day Sasha and her family decided to have her neighbor Karen take their family

photo and we decided to jump in on it too. So thanks Sasha for sharing Karen with us and thank you Karen for taking our picture too. She took a bunch of pictures of us in between rain storms, here are a few of them. Of course we had to have a picture with papa Hals New car, Its kinda tradition with brack and I. For our engagements we had Papa's yellow Viper out at the salt flats that was a lot of fun.

Basement Storage Sale

2008-09-17T16:29:00.003-06:00

If anyone is in the market for some furniture, we have a bunch of leftover furniture from the High Country Home days that we decided to sell rather than let sit in our basement any longer. We use to sell wholesale to all the local retail shops so expect to pay about HALF of what you would they would sell this stuff for.

We have a bunch of differnet pieces that are shown below and almost everything is "unfinished" at this point so you can pick colors that will match your home or store. I can paint, assemble and deliver if you would like.

If you are interested at all, email Bracken @ 2by2.net for details.

Skylar Binkie

2008-09-13T10:19:00.002-06:00

Skylar has never been one for a binkie. She sucked on the big green ugly from the hospital for a month or so but has never made the transition. Talia had purchased so many "cute" little binkies that every now and again she shoves one in Skylar's mouth just to see how cute it is. This is typically what will happen to it. Comes in, goes out, goes sideways, upside down then she throws it on the floor. At least we don't have to worry about taking it away from her someday!

Wasatch 100

2008-09-13T09:55:00.004-06:00

Last weekend we decided to go up to Midway and watch Talia's good friend Marcee finish running the Wasatch 100 mile endurance run. We had been tracking her online for over 24 hours so decided to come cheer her across the finish line. I can't even fathom running 100 miles straight. I can barely go 100 yards without needing a break but she finished the run in the alloted time so way to go Marcee!!

Isn't she just the cutest thing?

Skylar watching and learning from Marcee's daughters how to play "Se Se Oh Playmate"

Skylar is too cute!

Above the Homestead Resort there was a flag flying I couldn't help but take a picture. We are definately proud to be American's and grateful for the freedom's we enjoy! (Even when the freedom is skipping out on Stake Conference to go up to Midway)

Here she comes!

Ouch!!

Labor Day with Poops & Bun

2008-09-13T09:49:00.004-06:00

It is our family's tradition to go to Santaquin every year for Labor Day weekend. Bunny always makes a huge family dinner that is most excellent and we usually hit the Payson Days parade. This year it was raining so hard that we didn't go to the parade but we still had a great time visiting with family and enjoying time with grandparents.

Poops & Bun have a BEAUTIFUL yard with a pond and everything. We decided to get a family shot since we were all wearing levi's and black for some coincidental reason.?

Skylar is definately a Hudson. Enjoying Bun's famous Buns!

We are very grateful to still have great-grandparents around for Skylar to get to know. Poopsie and Skylar had fun teasing each other!

Manti Temple

2008-09-13T08:54:00.002-06:00

"Catching up"
Last month we got the opportunity and privilege to go to the Manti Temple and do work for my brother Kristopher. He had always said that if he were to ever get married in the temple, that is where he would want to go so we found it fitting to do his work there. Wayne commented that he wished Kris would have wanted to get married in the Hawaii temple but Manti was still beautiful. I won't go into detail but it was one of the most spiritual experiences of my life and one that we will definately never forget. What a great blessing the gospel is in our lives and the knowledge that we can be together with our families forever. What a great day we had with Di, Wayne, Grandma and Grandpa Johnson and mom's dear friend from California Ronee came into town.

Mawmy having a bad day.

2008-09-08T22:25:00.001-06:00

Last Thursday I was having one of those days.
and this is what I came home to, with the cuties
letter from SKY SKY (but we really know where
it came from) It's a little hard to understand but
here is what it said....... Deer Mawmy,
Tese flowars r fromm mi b cause I wnated u 2 no
tat u r the bssestest mawmy onn teh hole erth.
U r mi mamamamamamamama adn I luv u soooo
ooooo mush. Tank u 4 ale of teh tings taht u du 4
mi. I luv 2 plai witchu on teh flor wiht mi al of mi
tosy. I luv wen u git mi outt of mi cribb in teh mrnings.
U r teh bsetest mawny bcause u no hawe 2 make mi
tutus adn 1sies adn I kan lrean altot of sufttf formr u.
Tahnk u 4 beeing schuch a hrd wrkrer adn 4 mkaking
mi a plaay romm at teh sloaln. I luv u soooo muhuch
adn u r the bsestest mawmy evvr. Sky Sky

I am very lucky to have such a sweet husband and wonderful
little girl so thanks to both of them for the flowers and the sweet
letter. After that how can my day be bad.

A Fresh White Summer Night

2008-09-03T02:53:00.004-06:00

Last week some friends of ours in the ward had a "theme party". Everyone dressed in white (no temple attire or baptismal clothing mind you) and came over to their house for some great food and company. Thanks to the Hoelscher's for the invite and thanks to Sasha for watching the baby! (They actually bought the Duncan's home for those of you who might recognize the backyard)

Primary Presidency

2008-09-01T12:04:00.008-06:00

Talia was recently called to the Primary Presidency and I don't know what they do in their "meetings" but over the past few weeks she has turned into a little betty homemaker. She started making tu-tu's that she is selling at the salon...

Then, she decided to start making mini-purses....

Now, she is currently enjoying a successful career in Halloween "onesies"

Hogle Zoo with the cousins

2008-08-30T21:28:00.002-06:00

Today we decided that we were going to take Skylar to the zoo. Talia mentioned that we might as well grab little Ryder-man and take him along as well. Shortly after Sasha called so we thought what the heck, let's pack all 5 kids up and go. I then decided to call Ryan and Mandy Hill to see if they wanted so we ended up with a group of 13!
Here are the results of a fun-filled day without 1 single tantrum by any child!

Celebrate good times!

2008-08-20T22:01:00.009-06:00

Talia's mom, sister and sister-in-law have been participating in a self-improvement workshop called the Great Life. They have all seemed to benefit and enjoy the experience and when they had their graduation, the family went up to support them. Congrats ladies!

Do Re Me Fa So La Ti Do (Aunt Tyra sings rather well!)

Cousins....

Look how well Skylar and Logan are sharing their toys! :)

Victoria, Logan & Skylar

Grandma Victoria with Sky Sky

Grandma Victoria with Skylar's cousin Logan

Party like a rockstar!

For anyone who has ever doubted who Skylar looks like.....

Mapleton Parade & Park

2008-08-20T21:35:00.009-06:00

This was a very special year for Talia's family. Her grandparents were chosen to be the Grand Marshall's in the Mapleton parade. They have lived in Mapleton for like 60 years and were very honored to be chosen. All of her family was in town for a family reunion so it was quite an Italian gathering! We are very blessed to have 3 sets of Skylar's great grandparents still living. They all love her so much and we are very lucky that she will get to know them as well.

Grandpa Pete and Sky Sky

Grandma Vickie and Sky Sky

We are very fortunate to have a good natured and happy baby. We pray daily the next 8 will be the same!

The grand marshalls!

Nino & Arlene (Talia's grandparents) in the parade. Her grandpa had tears in his eyes while waving to his family. It was a neat moment for him.

Not too sure what to think about this clown.

But not too afraid to jab him in the chin!

Scera Pool

2008-08-20T21:25:00.004-06:00

Last week we decided to hit the Scera Pool for family night. We invited our good friends Ryan and Mandy Hill. Ryan and I spent most of the time sliding but we did play with the kids a little bit!

Skylar loves to crawl and she loves the water so she was in heaven!

She even got dunked under the water by her mommy!!

Skylar was trying to be such a big girl following Clara, Ellie and McKay towards the slide. Dad took her down the little kids slide but no one wants to see that picture!

Isn't Talia's "new do" pretty sexy? I think so!

Hmmmmmmm

2008-08-20T21:22:00.001-06:00

I think that if the pope was this cute, I might become a Catholic.

WOO WOO!

2008-08-20T21:17:00.001-06:00

HELLO KELLIE PICKLER! Oh yeah, the music was pretty good too.

Boating

2008-08-20T21:06:00.009-06:00

Over the 24th of July we got together with some of Talia's cousins and went boating out to Utah Lake. This was probably Skylar's 3rd time boating but she loved it. I kept trying to sneak her onto the wave runner with me but her mommy didn't let her. Next time, her mommy won't get invited!

Talia's "KISSING" cousin - Kevin, his wife Jenny and their little girl Madison.

Talia's Cousin Jason and his daughter - Jaylee

Peter Breinholt

2008-08-06T04:39:00.013-06:00

Fun weekend with Barrett and Jeanine we went to the Sandy Amphitheater and saw Peter Breinholt. Years ago Brack introduced me to Peter and I've been hooked ever since although to be honest, I really didn't want to go. I have just been a little stressed out with trying to get the salon done. I even told Bracken the day of the concert that I didn't want to go and he told me that I needed a fun night out and he was right we had so much fun. We even took Skylar and she loved it, right up and tell she fell asleep on dads lap. Thanks to Barrett and Jeanine for a really fun night and for being okay with Sky on our date. I was having a hard time leaving her that day.

Quick Update

2008-08-06T04:09:00.003-06:00

Well I thought I should give a quick update about the salon, because we didn't have our open house on the 1st and 2nd like we planned things have taken a little longer then we planned. Brack has been super busy at work which is a huge blessing. My poor husband is going to be so happy when the salon is finally done and he doesn't have to listen to his wife nag him everyday. So I will now put in my own little advertising plug for my open house It will be on Aug 14th from 1pm-6pm and on Aug 15th from 11am-4pm we are giving free waxing and free scalp messages and deep cond. treatments and there will be food and awesome prizes and you get a free gift just for coming! Best of all a chance to win a weekend in St. George. the address is 212 S State Orem and it is called LUSH STUDIO. Everyone is welcome! Okay there is my plug for the open house.

Di's Birthday Party

2008-07-30T21:35:00.003-06:00

We went up to Provo Canyon this Sunday for Grammee's birthday party. We even got Kiley to come! :) (Love you Barn) What a great example mom is to all of us. We love her and admire how much she has done for us and what a fighter she is in her life. Thanks Sasha for letting me steal the collague.

Miller Motorsports Park

2008-07-20T21:51:00.000-06:00

We went out to the Miller Motorsports Park for the weekend to watch the races. Papa Hal took the Motorhome and we had a great time with all the family. Skylar loves her cousins and has a great time "hanging" with them.

LUSH SUMMER

2008-07-20T21:22:00.026-06:00

So, for those of you who are wondering what we have been doing all summer (instead of blogging - haha) we decided to do a post and let you know what has been consuming our lives. Brack and I keep joking that we will remember this summer as our Lush summer. For those of you who don't know "LUSH STUDIO" is the name of my salon. One might ask, "how did this all come about?" Well a couple of months ago I had about ten girls come to me and ask if I had room at my salon for all of them, they all worked together at another salon and they just weren't happy there anymore. They all wanted to go to a salon and still be able to work together. So Bracken and I decided to turn the old school in the back of the salon into one big salon so we started our remodel. Of course it has taken us longer then we thought to get it finished but we are hoping to be done by next week. So, right now we have about 17 girls working on top of each other and I will be glad to get it done and get my station back. It's been a lot of work especially for Brack and to him I am grateful that he is so supportive of my dreams. THANK YOU HONEY!! I LOVE YOU. But even though it has been consuming our lives we really are very excited about all the new changes and we already love all the new girls. I took some pictures of before and after and in between so you can see all the fun we have been having. These are the only picture's of the front of the salon I will post the back of the salon by the the end of the week. I would also like to thank everyone who has been so helpful in watching Sky why we where doing this.

P.S. We are having a big open house on Aug. 1st and 2nd so everyone can come and see all our new changes. More details coming soon!!!

Water Girl

2008-07-06T21:57:00.006-06:00

Skylar loves the water, I Think we might have a fishy on our hands. It doesn't seem to bother her if the water is cold out of the hose or if she's sitting in the hot tub. she just loves It. Daddy calls her ( little speed boat )

Timmy "HOTTIE"

2008-07-02T21:41:00.006-06:00

A Big Thank You to Shannon and Casey for thinking of us !! They gave Bracken and I their Tim McGraw tickets. VIP tickets may I add. We had so much fun so thanks again. And thanks to Ryan and Mandi for going with us we had a lot of fun with the both of you. A lot more fun in fact than if Trevor and Holly had gone with us. Haha(We love you T and H).

Happy SKY!

2008-07-01T22:42:00.007-06:00

Our little sky sky has the cutest little smile! It melts my heart everyday.