Hess Family

There has to be something that can help!

2011-08-01T15:30:00.000-07:00

At one point or another all of us have wondered if there is something out there that can help. I did and I am so glad that I found that "something". I was introduced to the Doterra oils when I was pregnant with Sophia. I thought they were great but didn't think they were for me until I was sick and there was nothing that could take away the coughing fits I was having. So I called up my friend and she brought over some samples right away. Before I went to bed I applied peppermint oil to the bottoms of my feet and lemon oil to my chest. It helped so much and with in a couple of days my cough was completely gone. After having Sophia she was so congested at night and because of her being an infant there was nothing over the counter that I could give her. ***Then I remember the oils*** Now she sleeps wonderfully and more importantly can breathe! Since then we have found so many other uses for our oils from our physical and mental health, cleaning supplies, to cooking and much more! These oils have definitely changed our lives.

2 Can Taco Soup

2011-04-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

2 cans corn (not drained)
2 cans beanless chili
2 cans tamales (slice before adding)
2 cans light red kidney beans (drain and rinse)
2 cans Italian stewed tomatoes
1 lrg can chicken (not drained)
1 small can chilis

Add everything into crockpot and keep on warm all day or cook until hot.
Eat with shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

You're the first to see

2011-04-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

So must of the time, okay all of the time I post things of Facebook first and then weeks or maybe even months later it gets put on here. I figured I would switch things up a bit and let the Great Grandparents have the first look. When Sophia was 8 days old we went to Meherg Photography and had some pictures taken. Well here they are hope you all enjoy. We had a blast and are having a tough time deciding which ones to order so suggestions are welcome!

What a Lady!

2011-04-10T15:26:00.000-07:00

So on my last post I was talking about how AMAZING my Mother is, well it's that time and this IS the story! I have come from such a great family with parents that have been great examples. My Mom has always been an example of service not just to her friends and family but ANYONE that she sees in need. (Anyone can serve but it takes a lot to serve those that haven't been the nicest to you and she does) She does things out of love and often times in secrecy. I have been so fortunate to be able to have my Mom by my side or at home with my children through all of my deliveries. I have always appreciated her kindness in the past but more so with this last baby. Life had been challenging and she made things so much easier, and for the first time in months I felt like my home was a heaven on Earth.

She arrived a couple of days before I had Sophia and it was so nice to be able to catch up on some sleep. We left for the hospital and missed the first of many pajama party but when we got home the house was all decked out. She helped the kids make a welcome home sign, there was candy, cake and a super clean house!

She spoiled the kids with cool pancakes, Bryant and I will never be able to compete with.

She also made Sophia's crib set, take a look. It is pretty sweet!

That is one lucky little girl and one spoiled Mommy.

We had so much fun and I really enjoyed the company. The clean house, dinners, scripture stories, and everything else was just an added bonus. Oh I forgot to mention 2 other very important things she got Wyatt to nap and sleep in his own bed at night! (Oh magic)

I'm sorry if this is a little much but I really enjoy being able to enjoy my little bundle of joy and give the other kids attention when we have a new addition without having to worry about everyday life and she made that all possible. Thanks MOM and thanks Dad and Aaron for suffering in my behalf. ;)

A little piece of Heaven

2011-03-21T17:40:00.000-07:00

Sophia Rose Hess

7lbs 7oz 19in

Born March 4, 2011 2:48am

These past couple months have been crazy to say the least. From not being able to walk from sciatic pain, to crawling on the ground from sciatic pain. Stepping off the stage onto a chair that collapsed, slipping and falling on ice and quite a few trips to the ER, we are finally done! She is here! I would do it all over again for her, but not ever again for another baby. ;) I don't think my body could handle being pregnant again. We were so blessed to have help from friends and family during that time and trust me we received a lot of help!

Things didn't go quite as planned when we first arrived at the hospital, but once the eduction got started we were on a roll. Things progressed fairly quickly and I ended up having to hold this little girl in for a half and hour until the doctor got to the hospital.

She is just perfect... a little noisy but then she wouldn't fit in if she wasn't. So happy and smiley, her brothers and sister just love her!

We were fortunate to have my Mom with us for a couple of weeks before and after Sophia's arrival. I truly don't know what I ever did to have been blessed with such and amazing selfless Mother. But then that is another story that will be told later.

before leaving the hospital

going home

her proud siblings

her Sissy loves her

her big brother is a super hero

she loves to be bundled up tight

Here are just a few of our pictures. She is now 2 weeks old and doing great! Grandma just left to go back home last night and so we are adjusting. Hoping we get into a new groove soon so that we can continue to enjoy our family!

Please be the last!

2011-01-19T09:09:00.000-08:00

So I am hoping that this will be the last time that I will ever have to post something like this for Aubrey, now Sophia might be a different story.This will be the 4th time and like I said hopefully the last but I won't hold my breath.

After putting Wyatt down for his nap I woke up to Aubrey being super cute. She was trying to make food for her baby doll. We sat downstairs just having girl talk for a while when she told me that she was tired of her bangs getting in her eyes. And then I saw it... she was telling me this because she decided to get them out of her eyes by cutting them. It was awful!!! The cuts all over were so random that I had no clue how I was going to fix it. After about 45mins of being on the Internet and her sitting in the chair while I just stare this is what I came up with.

When I was done I put her in the bathroom so I could style it, and when she looked Ithe mirror and saw how short it was she cried. But that was nothing. She then realized that her and Grandma were no longer twins and then she bawled!!! Her and my Mom have had the same hair cut for over 3 years.

I had to warn Joey and tell him to say nice things about it.

Trendy right!?! Well maybe a little too trendy. Now everywhere she goes people are commenting o how cute she looks, and they love her hair. Just last night we were stopped in the freezer section of Walmart so a lady could tell her that she looked like a movie star. Now I wasn't able to fix everything but unless you really look you would have no clue that it was a "fix it" job. Oh and BTW if you look closely you can tell that she had been bawling previously to the pictures being taken.

Who Does That?!?

2010-10-24T11:32:00.000-07:00

So last night as a family we decided to go to a buffet for dinner. Kids are all happy with plates in front of their faces including Bryant and I come back with my plate full of yumminess. As I sit down Bryant says you are so predictable. I replied that we had been married for almost 7 years and he should be able to predict that. But the truth is it shouldn't take him that long. I am that predictable, can you guess what I go for every time I go to a buffet or anywhere that might have it?Think long and hard... okay not too hard it's not that special. If fact it's not special at all, more like irresistible to my taste buds.
Mashed potatoes, gravy, beef of any kind, and you gotta throw a roll or two in there.
But it is way better than that, when I am done I could have any thing, we are at a buffet so ANYTHING and I go back for a second plate of the same thing. And that is it no dessert no trying stuff I wouldn't normally get, that is what Bryant's plate is for. :)
So my friends how predictable are you?

Confused 2 year old

2010-10-18T08:38:00.000-07:00

Wyatt is 2!!!!!! He is our little buddy and the glue that really puts the family together, but lately he's not too sure what is going on. Things in his little world are about to be blown to pieces. He knows he can get Mommy to stop anything she is doing to hold him and that if he cries good enough Daddy will let him stay up and even sleep in bed with us. All of which will change in March when our second little princess enters this world. So he hasn't quite got the hang of the terrible two thing yet. He likes to tease, sass, and pick on his siblings but at the same time he is the sweetest little two year old we have ever had. He loves to be held and is very verbal about how much a loves us. How could we be blessed with such a well balanced child? I don't know but we'll take it. Here are pictures from his birthday, he wasn't as excited about opening his presents as we had hoped but loved what was inside of them.

I've been told a picture says a thousand words...

What would this one say?

Everyone should have one

2010-10-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

So me being me couldn't live without my little pup, one that I can baby and take with me anywhere. I have to have a buddy keeping my lap warm while I am driving or watching tv. So here is Tink. She is a Teddy bear just a little different than Mater. She has been a blessing and a joy. She really is a great addition to our family and is well loved by everyone! Bryant is also getting a little soft spot for her. ;)

She definitely looks like a teddy bear

Fancy is a little clumsy, but tries to be so gentle

Abby thinks it's her baby

Princess is just glad to have a buddy her size and is with her every chance she gets.

Aubrey, well... she loves her to death! But still asks everyday when Mater is coming back down.

Her favorite place to sleep is between mine and Bryant's pillows.

At least he's not alone...

2010-10-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

What took me some time to realize, Joey could see from the beginning. "At least he's not alone Mom, he is with Uncle Dustin."

Thursday morning was kinda rough or just awful, as I lay in bed thinking of how I have out grown my maternity pants and need to buy a bigger pair the door bell rings. It rings at 6:30 in the morning over and over again, so I stubbornly throw on a robe and go to the door. The lady that stood there asked if I had a 3 legged dog. I replied yes realizing that Mater was not in bed with me this morning. She continued to tell me that he was hit by a car and how it all happened. In shock I thanked her and went back inside.

Mater was my buddy and went everywhere with me, he slept under the covers between Bryant and I at our feet every night. He was the coolest dog to have around, so fun loving, spastic at times and very affectionate. Looking out the window I realized that he was at the end of the driveway and there was no way to get Joey off to school without the kids seeing him. Bryant was at work so that left it up to me. Sobbing I walk out to the street with a sheet in my hands I covered him up and brought him in the garage. I told the kids what had happened and drove Joey to school. Thursday was pretty warm and I knew he couldn't stay there until Bryant got home.

The hole was dug and all that was left was for me to put him to rest but I just couldn't let go, knowing that this was the last time that I would be able to hold him in my arms I just sat there for a half hour cherishing the last moment I had with him. I know this might sound crazy to many of you knowing that to you a dog is just an animal, but to me they are family. Requiring just as much time and love as a kid but giving you an endless amount of love.

As I sat back and thought about how this all played out I couldn't help but think of the thought that crossed my mind just a couple days before. Looking at him get around as best as he possibly could but not as effortless as before, knowing that the accident and him losing his leg had changed him. Wondering if he was happy. So now I am sad and miss my buddy but am happy knowing where he is and that there is no pain and he now can run with all 4 legs.

Summer to Remember

2010-09-15T16:02:00.000-07:00

This summer was filled with lots of accidents, family fun, and just hanging out. At the end of May we got our miniature horse back from being trained. The kids had a blast and really enjoyed riding him, Joey was a natural. Until a police car flew by with the sirens on spooking the horse, taking Joey for a wild ride. He fell off into a post, scraped up his head and broke his wrist making him spend the night in the children's hospital.

He was so excited to get his cast he never wanted to take it off.

Soon after this we left for our family reunion in Ohio. The kids got to meet up Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Aaron and got to meet their "great" cousins. Believe me these kids are great in more than one way. :)

Joey and Aubrey had a blast with Gabby and Brad!

We always have a lot of fun visiting with our relatives out in Ohio, eating good good food and playing games. Although we only see each other once every couple of years it's amazing how well things just mesh. Our last night there we were having a dance party in the camper and things got out of hand. lol Or Wyatt is just clumsy.

After the reunion Bryant headed home while the kids and I headed back out to PA with Mom and Dad. We ended up spending almost a month out there. I always enjoy heading back home and just relaxing. I must admit though, I am pretty selfish with my time and it is really hard for me to do anything but spend time with my family. Many days were spent by the pool, picking veggies from the garden, singing and dancing in the rain and just letting lose. Every minute is just "SPECIAL", kinda reminds me of the days I spent and the park feeding the animals with my Grandpa. There is no need to entertain or talk just enjoy each others company.

Dancing in the rain then enjoying the rainbow.

Racing and boxing

4th of July fireworks

Aubrey didn't make it through the show, and the boys thought it was a to play.

Thanks the Loski's we were able to go to the Gettysburg Reenactment.

This year Grandpa taught Joey how to swim. The kid is like a fish!

Happy BirthMonth!!!

2010-05-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

This Birthday started out with gifts in the mail that he had permission to open as soon as they arrived. Then we had get together with Grandma Hess and Uncle Randy on his Birthday and then a week later he had a bowling party with some of his class friends. Here's the pics.

Birthday #1

Grandma missed Valentines Day so she sent in in this package

Awesome just what I always wanted!

(he had never seen one before)

Birthday #2

Helmet to keep him safe

From Grandma and Grandpa Hess

Motocross shirt from Uncle Randy

Shirt and helmet matches his 4wheeler and racing gear.

He wanted a strawberry cake with rainbow chip frosting.

Birthday #3

The whole gang minus the parents

Transformers!!!!

And there you have it. That is one lucky kid.

When the dog bites, when the bee stings...

2010-05-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

So these past couple months have been crazy busy! On February 20 (my birthday) at 3:30 in the morning Abby went into labor. I was so excited and ready as ever. We had gone to the vet earlier in the week for an X-ray and were expecting 7 maybe 8 pups. To our surprise we had 10! That is a huge litter and it was her first. 7 boys and 3 girls. These pictures are of the boys and girls and a week old, the next one is of my last 4 boys at 5 weeks. It can be difficult to sell an entire litter especially when you have so many boys, but we had them all sold when they were 6 weeks old.

So why did I breed Abby in the first place? As those of you who know me know haw much I love animals and that I wanted to be a vet well not as much as I wanted to be a Mom. So going to school for 7 years wasn't worth it to me but breeding is something I can do at home with the kids and get my animal fix. I spent a lot of time researching the Labrador breed, genetics, and how to be a responsible breeder. These pups were well love and socialized and that is one of the many reasons that they sold so fast. So the money that we made off of the puppies is going to fencing in our back yard to keep the kids and the dogs safe and buying a new puppy to add to the breeding program.

Here she is... Haven't settled on a name yet but we are leaning towards Fancy. She is from Royalty... no seriously she is from the Queen of England's kennel. We will be getting her sometime after the 19 of May.

And now for the bees. I am a firm believer that we are eventually going to have to rely on our trades and talents to survive and well honey is very valuable. Or so I tell myself. ;) Thanks to a brother in our ward I have been able to start my own hive. He has coached me through this and has been very patient.

Here is Zen and I setting up the hive and putting the bees in their new home.

My bees are retarded and aren't building the comb in the right place the are making it on the lid :/ so I get to enjoy some fresh honey every once in a while. Darn it!

The bees make comb on the frames and then fill the comb with honey.

We got 3 lbs of bees, the can is filled with sugar water to feed them until the flowers bloom.

Family time

2010-03-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

As we all know life can be hard and filled with chores, running errands, committments and well LIFE. It is so easy to get discouranged and feel like what you are doing is just an ongoing pointless cycle. I know because I feel that way A LOT and feel like somethings gotta give. As soon as I accomplish something it's only a matter of time until the kids go back and put thing how they like it. Well that is life and it wis going to be a while for me at least until the kids are old enough to really understand. So for now we make the most of what we have and be thankful for those moments that we can just BREATHE. For me that was yesterday in the Walmart line, and just so you know it felt soooo good.
So just breathe and think of what makes you happy. My kids and I aren't really winter people, I think the snow is pretty but out here it's too cold to play in it and my kids feel the same way. So when it finally got warm enough to play outside (Mid-March) they were more than ready. I was outside taking care and enjoying the animals and I heard them giggling. When I heard that it gave me a bit of hope and excitement for the weather and laughter to come.

So whike the weather was warm and there was still snow out we went sledding as a family with some of our good friends.

It was so much fun and the first time in 4 years that we had gone sledding. Kinda sad but next year we hope to get a lot more sledding in.

The next day we went to the circus with the Winterfeldts (the same family we went sledding with. The kids loved the elephants and thought it was helarious when the put a dog in a elephant costume and would try to wind him up like a toy.

Poor Aubrey was starting to get sick and didn't get the chance to enjoy it like we hoped.

So it is my goal to find the good in everything and try to remember that a clean house is nice and it would be wonderful to be Mom of the Year but if there is no laughter in your house and if you can't be grateful for the little things then the big things really don't matter.I am so excited for warm weather and for spending time with my family and just having fun!

The Legacy Lives On

2010-02-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

So this year Joey has started wrestling, strictly for fun, no tournaments, just practice.

He's a little softy but enjoys going to practice and seeing his friends. This was him before his first practice.

And this was him after practice.

My Guys

2010-01-14T08:25:00.000-08:00

November was a great month! Long but great.

I now have the men of my dreams.

This is Bryant with our (MY) new horse Sawyer from Montana. He is a dream and anyone can ride him! I have really enjoyed riding him, I go bareback a lot around the property and boy does he fly! Bryant loves him to and is excited to use him for roping someday.This is Bryant Roofing he had a lot of help from friends and spent many late night up on that roof. But he did it and learned a new skill in the process.
We are both glad that it is over and done with now.

Pretty Pretty Princess'

2010-01-14T08:05:00.000-08:00

This year we did a dress up party. Aubrey's 3 yr old friends all came in their dress up clothes and played games, decorated princess mirrors, and made "fancy" bracelets. It was too cute to see Aubrey with her friends on this special day. You can't tell by the pictures but they really did have fun, and all were sporting their jewelry on Sunday.

I was the "Best Mom Ever" that's a title I can live with.

Grandma, Grandpa and Uncle Aaron were in town for Thanksgiving so they got to enjoy the festivities.

What are the odds?

2010-01-14T07:28:00.000-08:00

So last January I was in search of a saddle for Bryant and instead of finding a saddle I found an amazing friend. But wait it gets better this friend also has a large family that Bryant and I have become very good friends with and our kids are best friends as well. Dianne and I have spent a lot of time together at horse auctions and family activities, but this was amazing.

In October we went on a Woman's Trail ride for a whole week end. Because of the weather only 3 of us brought our horses, and boy were the other ladies sorry. Although the trails were slightly slippery it just added to the fun. I took Bryant's newly broke out horse Duke, we were a great team.

Most of these pictures were taken while riding. It was extreme, there were times when I wasn't sure if we could make it up the steep hills or down the slippery slopes. Especially when you are to take it slow and your horse wants to run down the wet hill. :} But we made it, me on Duke (QH), Dianne on Libby (fresian cross), and Shelly on Levi (arab cross). This was my first "official" trail ride and although it would have been nice to have done it with Bryant, I am so glad I shared it wish such a great friend. I learned a lot and it was nice to get away

Why should this move be any different?

2010-01-14T07:04:00.000-08:00

In the almost 6 years that Bryant and I have been married, this is now our 6th house. And every time we have moved we have had my family to help my Dad and brother's muscles to move and my Mom's amazing talents for packing and organizing. Since we are min WI and my parents are in PA, we figured we would have to manage on our own. Let's just say that didn't work out to well, so SUPER MOM to the rescue! She is amazing, not only does she pack in record time but when she unpacks there is no mess left behind. For example after our move to New London we were completely moved in, unpacked, and decorated in 2 days. This was a slightly longer process due to the remodeling but she did wonders. Thanks Mom! So Wyatt was turning one in a couple of days and Mom only had a day left before she flew home, so we had Wyatt's party with my Mom and some close friends. It was supposed to start around 6 but we decided to move our horses over to the new property that night. Needless to say the party didn't start until 8:30.

He was a good sport all things considered. (the time)

None of your beeswax

2010-01-14T06:47:00.000-08:00

So me being the crazy person that I am have been contemplating being a beekeeper.

Everytime I drove past a hive this summer it would drive me crazy! So finaly I decided I was going to look into it. We have a Brother at our church that we have got to know more through housing his steer, he has several hives and has been doing this for years. I decided I was going to ask him, how I could get started. He invited me over to help "Extract honey".

This is called a super and in the super there are frames that the bees make the combs.

Most of the time when the bees are done with the frame they cap off the comb with wax. To extract we have to cut the caps off using a heated knife.

This is the extracter you place the frames in it and spin the honey out. The honey is filtered several different times before being packaged. It was a yummy expeince. There was a little more to it but this was the main process.

This next spring I might be bringing home a hive to experiment with, I am so excited.

Thanks Miller Family for letting us share this amazing experience!

No looking back

2010-01-14T06:22:00.000-08:00

Well this year Joey started school and everything that goes along with it. Lunch lines, riding the bus, recess and sports which we will get to later on. At least it is only twice a week, for now.

He is really starting to grow up I can't believe how fast time flies. When school started we were still in the process of buying our home, so I would drive Joseph to our soon to be house every morning for him to take the bus to school. Dad said he couldn't make it for the first day, but when we pulled into the drive was SURPRISE! He was there how could he miss his first day?

Crazy Crazy Crazy!

2009-08-12T17:53:00.000-07:00

We as you might have guessed for us summer has been crazy. Last year was my first attempt at making strawberry jam, and I'll just tell you that I still have a freezer full of it. The berries we picked were very bitter and I don't think any amount of sugar could have made them sweet. So this year I thought I would give it one more try and WOW we hit the JACKPOT! We ended up going back picking 2 more times. I canned several types of strawberry jam, Rhubarb jam, and then decided to go for peach jam. It was a crazy 2 weeks. Then while out at my Mom's house we decided to can some more peach jam and made a total of 63 pints! I love canning and can't wait until apple season. Oh and I forgot to mention the house we are buying has several fruit trees! I will be in heaven next year. So now for the rest.

This summer the kids have enjoyed going to a local zoo, not anything big but they love it. Their favorite part is the petting zoo. There they are able to hold bunnies and feed the calves and baby goats. We have also made it to the pool. Aubrey has always loved water and now Joseph is able to relax and play with everyone else. I mist say next summer will be real nice when all the kids can enjoy the water. Wyatt loves the water but wants to be on his own.

For the 4th of July weekend we went to a parade and rodeo later that evening with a couple of friends. For such a little parade the kids sure got a lot of candy. The Rodeo wasn't too bad either.

2009-08-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

Quality Family Time

2009-08-12T16:56:00.000-07:00

We so often find it hard to spend time together as a family, so we came to a conclusion. We are going to go camping. Kinda silly but we really enjoy the outdoors and all that comes with it, well okay there are a couple of things that we could live without. :) So Bryant decided we needed to get a camper, at first I was against it and still question the decision but we have really enjoyed the time together. We cook outside, roast marshmallows over a fire and just enjoy each other's company. So here was our favorite weekend so far.

Quality Family Time

2009-08-12T16:53:00.000-07:00

Many first times

2009-06-18T19:29:00.000-07:00

Dustie

2009-05-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

Well, as I knew she would, Ivy had her foal while we were gone. I must say I was very disappointed. After studying and preparing for her to foal I was so excited to put my knowledge to use. Seriously you have no idea how many times I woke up in the middle of the night and went down to the barn, just because I had a feeling that she might be having her foal. And that is just the beginning. Anyway... Dustie was a little crazy yesterday when I tried to handle her but after just a short time she has improved so much. It's neat to see her progress in such a short time. I have always enjoyed animals and have loved riding horse's since I was a little girl, but this is amazing. I am able to share something that was very special to my brother Dustin, while doing something that I love. I was told once you start with horses you can never get away. Alcoholics can stop drinking but horses you can never break yourself of. So anyways, here is our sweet Dustie Rose. Hope you enjoy the pics!

Dustie Rose

2009-05-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

What's happening on the Ranch

2009-04-27T09:28:00.000-07:00

Jasper, Shiek, Princess, Duke, and Ivy

(left to right)

Recently we have made some changes here on the property, Clyde and Max

have found new homes and we now have two other horses.

Princess is a 8yr old sorrel pony that is 12hh. She has a little bit of an attitude but is a smooth ride. I bought her for the kids to gain confidence while riding but I enjoy riding her as well.

This is Duke, Bryant traded Clyde for Duke in addition with cash to get him trained. He is a 5yr old Quarter horse. Great personality and first one to greet you at the gate. He is 15hh and will grow a little more.

Within the next month we will have another arrival. Ivy is due to have a foal any time, we are so excited. Or I should say I am so excited! Wish us luck during the delivery!

The Pie of My Life

2009-04-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago I post about the new love of my life and well here it is.

Not only is it great HOT but is is amazing cold.

Peaches N Cream Pie!

You complete me, but don't do much for my diet.

Like Mother Like Daughter

2009-04-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

When I was 3 my Grandma and Grandpa Veres took my cousin Nicole and I down to California on a road trip from Oregon. What possessed them to do this is beyond me but Nicole and I had a blast. We had a lot of fun at Disney land, swimming in our Aunts pool, oh and your can't forget shopping. We brought home with us lots of memories, souvenirs, and tons of really cute dresses! What more could we ask for?

How about the chance to share it with my daughter!

Joey is "Smiling" if you couldn't tell.

And Aubrey's nose has something to do with the goats but we're not quite sure

how that played out. :)

No more singing!

2009-04-27T07:43:00.000-07:00

As you have heard Joey in now 4 and he had a blast with his 3 day Birthday. Starting on Thursday with a package from Grandma Eyler, followed by a package on Friday from his Great Grandma Veres and cards from Gma&Gpa White, and then ending with a party filled with friends and family on Saturday. It was the best birthday ever, well he did have one complaint... After I sang Happy Birthday to him on Friday morning, any time someone called to sing to him after that he wasn't very happy. "My Mom Already sang that to me!" And he meant it... he did not want to hear it any more.

So the question, "Can a Birthday last too long" Well according to Joey it can.

He loved all of his presents. He really like his new boots!

Blowing out the candles.

Let the party begin!

After the cake and ice cream the kids played while the parents talked and the there was pony rides!

The waiting is over!

2009-04-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

Both of them were very excited!

So for the past week and a half Joey has been checking the mail to see if his package has come, and everyday it's the same old story. Until today. We checked the mail and nothing was there but when we pulled into the drive way he saw his package sitting on the porch.

Okay so he doesn't look that excited...

That's cuz he saw there's more.

Lightning McQueen his favorite!

His Grandma likes to get stuff that makes noise.

No, it's not the first day of school... it's his 4th BIRTHDAY!!!

Easter Festivities

2009-04-21T12:07:00.001-07:00

This year we had Nicole and Travis out for Easter. It was so nice being able to have them around growing up I can remember spending most of our holidays together. As we got older things changed and we grew apart but it is so nice to be able to renew and develop our friendship. We didn't do anything too special but enjoyed the time that was spent, and the conversations.

Nicole and I were in charge of Easter dinner. She taught me a new way to shell hard boiled eggs

and introduced me to one of my new favorite desserts whose I will introduce you to a little later.

Easter night Grandma and Grandpa Hess came over to help color eggs and fill the plastic ones

with candy for the BIG Easter Egg Hunt. Why don't my kids have clothes on? Well

They are still getting the hang of coloring eggs and I didn't want to sacrifice any clothing while they learned. If you would have seen their hands after you would understand.

They next day the kids had a blast finding the eggs Travis and Nicole hid outside.

Wyatt even got one! Okay with Nicole's help.

So that was our Easter small but fun and did I mention CRAZY? That's just to be

expected.

Service?

2009-04-07T12:21:00.000-07:00

So recently I have been very irritated... It seems when ever someone does something nice

it is only to get something in return. I don't mind doing something to help someone if they have done something for me. I ove helping poeople it makes me feel good, but that's not the point... You do things for other because you want to not for what you can get back from them. Or at least that was how I was raised, so maybe my parents were at fault there. NOPE! I don't think they were. Poeple should do things cuz they care or because they are wanting to better themselves (still kinda selfish but in a good way). If you're not doing things for the right reasons than you shouldn't do anything at all. So next time you do something for someone please don't think about what they are going to do for you in return. Do it for the RIGHT reasons.

In small things...

2009-03-28T17:32:00.000-07:00

For me it's not always easy to find the good in things. I get overwhelmed and just feel like it's the end of the world, when really it's NOT. I enjoy being home with the kids and wouldn't have it any other way. Well, except for the home part. I am so sick of being inside with this cold weather it's depressing. We try to enjoy those semi warm days but there just isn't enough of them.

Recently Bryant and I have been working on setting up an area for Ivy for when she foals. It is so exciting reading, learning, and preparing for delivery in May. I am in my element all the way!

Bryant has also been working with her on walking through water. It's a good thing our property is flooded cuz we can do it right here. The other day we were going through water up to the horse's belly. I feel like we should be in the movie Man from Snowy River! Bryant really puts alot of time working with the horses and the training and he is constantly surprising me. I knew my husband was hot but a hot Cowboy... I got that too! Just today he bought a rope and a book on Roping. Next he will be taking lessons. I get so excited watching him!

So anyways it's the little things... Watching Bryant ENJOY working with the horses, seeing Joey and Aubrey ride the four wheeler with the goats and sheep chasing them, being able to give Wyatt something no one else can. Listening to how excited Aubrey gets when hearing she should ride her horse to Grandma's house. I love my kids and my family. It's hard but it's so worth it.

It's the little things that my kids do that truly make me happy.

Ride Um Cowgirl!

2009-03-02T09:01:00.000-08:00

Well, for some time now we have had several horses but no saddles of our own to ride them. Pretty pointless... Until now, we finally have saddles that will fit all of our horses. Earlier this week I went up north to drop off Reggie, Randy's dog to meet his "Girlfriend" and in the process found and amazing deal on a saddle that will fit my horse. This weekend we went to an auction and found an actual miniature saddle and a saddle for Bryant that will fit his HUGE horses! Now this isn't a big deal for you but it is so exciting for us! So we got home Saturday and saddled up the horses the kids had a lot of fun riding in a saddle that actually fit them. Joey in the past hasn't cared too much for riding Jasper but this new saddle hold them much better. Bryant and I also had a blast, you should really see him up on Clyde! We are so excited for warmer weather and the riding that comes with it!

A Birthday to Remember...

2009-03-02T08:18:00.000-08:00

Before I really knew what I was getting into

This year for my birthday Bryant decided he was going to make it special. Since we first got married we have wanted to go snowboarding as a couple. It took us 5 years but we finally did it and probably wont ever do it again.The morning started out very hopeful, I was excited and ready to hit the slopes. Now I had only been snowboarding one other time for a youth activity and couldn't get out of bed the next day. But I was now older and wiser and thought I had a better idea of what I was doing... Boy was I wrong. We hit the bunny slope and well that was just awful! I couldn't even make it down that without falling and severely hurting myself.

Then Bryant decided to met me a lesson. Lets just say the retarded instructor but me on a ski lift and expected me to go down a huge hill! Now keep in mind I had become one with the bunny slope over and over again. I gave him the benefit of the doubt and thought maybe just maybe I could do this. Wrong again! I tried but there was no way I was making it down in one piece. So I decided to walk down the hill. It was kinda humiliating but I would have hurt a lot worse had I tried to go down any further.

I will never forget this birthday and trust me I now know that I have no clue what I am doing when it comes to snowboarding.

My view most of the time

Bryant showing me that he can make it down the whole way... Without falling!

Yummy!

Wyatt's first experience with real food. (roll)

After about a half hour of trying to dodge his hands while we were eating we decided to give him something to munch in. Our dinner went a lot smoother after that.

4 months

2009-02-17T17:23:00.000-08:00

Well it seems 4 months have gone by since our lives were blessed with Wyatt's sweet spirit. What would we do without him? He is the one thing that can bring joy to everyone in the house with just a simple smile. It's amazing the power babies have over people. He is such a sweet heart and oh so happy! It is so neat to watch him grow and develop just today he rolled over for the first time! He's a little behind his brother and sister and that is A OK with us, he can take all the time he wants. And when he is ready I'm sure we won't be. So here is our little pumpkin at 4 months.

Chop Chop!

2009-01-31T07:41:00.000-08:00

Well, after years of debating I finally did it! Thde stacked bob...Last night I went to a random salon and got my hair cut. It turned out

pretty good but I will need my friend Jenn to touch up some spots.

I really should have just waited for her to do it but you know how it gets when you

are eager to get something done. I just couldn't wait any longer. Then I got home sat in the sink and foiled my hair. I think it turned out pretty good. So here it is!

Sister Bonding time

2009-01-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

Maddie

So I finally have the sister I always wanted. j/k I really enjoy looking online at different sites for animals. Not to buy, but just to find out about different breeds. Back in PA I ran into a lady with an Affenpinscher and loved it. Well on one of my searching sessions, I ran into her (Maddie) and thought she would be perfect for my Dad. And well here we are. I picked her up the other day. She is such a good dog! So now Mom and Dad can get rid of their Giant Shedding Rug and enjoy a shed free purse pup. She will be staying here with me until Mom and Dad can make a trip out. I think I need to start the perfect match puppy finding business to help people find their perfect dog. Okay so it might be a while, but finding other people dogs is kinda a fix for my obsession. So I think I should be good for a while. ;)

A time to remember

2009-01-16T11:07:00.000-08:00

Well this trip has been filled with lots of memories... We had a blast and it was nice to get away from reality for a while. As we said the first couple of days were spent by the beach and it was amazing the weather was in or near the 80s the whole time. Then on Sunday after a day at the beach we drove to Orlando. Monday was spent by the pool and then go carting all evening. When we got home we decided to watch a movie. After trying to get the DVD player working for about a half hour we called the front desk. Soon the maintenance guy showed up and WOW if there was a real live person that looked like Mater from the movie Cars this was him. Not only was he "rusty" but had matching teeth and close to the same accent and wit. It was quite entertaining watching him try to figure out that the machine was broke and then bring us back a brand new one. Our noses were very happy he left when he did.

Tuesday Bryant and I got up early to sit through #6 of our timeshare presentations, all for cheap tickets, when we got home we swam, then went shopping at a mall that after 5 years still is missing over half the stores in it, and went to see Pirates.

Wednesday the boys left to go pick up the chute and check from the farm they trimmed at while Megan and I hit the outlets, that was followed my more go carts, Megan and Randy going on the human sling shot and the Arabian Nights. Now the night before at Pirates was really really bad and this year the kids didn't like it at ALL, so we weren't looking forward to another night of whining. We were pleasantly surprised. The loved it and couldn't keep their eyes off the show. Yay us!

Thursday was our last day out on the town, in the morning Bryant and I went to #7 of our timeshare presentations and then we spent the rest of the day a Epcot. It was as fun as it could be having 3 kids without naps but we were expecting that. We went on a couple of rides, talked to Crush for a couple minutes until the kids were board and dinner in Japan. Lets not do that again... Lets just say I'll stay here in the US, the food is much better. :) Sorry the pictures go from the last day there to the first.

One more thing before you start thinking this was a perfect vacation here's how Friday went... We got up early to pack and drive home. The cars were all packed down and ready to go when Randy's truck wouldn't start. The fuel gauge wasn't reading properly and he was out of fuel when it said he had a 1/4 tank. We got fuel, problem fixed. Now we are on the road and need to stop for a potty break and to fill up. Joey decides to get out of the car and shut the door, LOCKING THE KEYS, A SICK AUBREY AND CRYING WYATT inside. Thanks goodness we have AAA, but too bad after being on the phone for forever we decided to call 911 instead. The cop came and after trying to unlock the door and failing said he was going to break the window. You should have seen the look on Bryant's face. What better motivation, we found some screw drivers and used the antenna to unlock. Our short 5 minute break ended up being more like 45 minutes. I think it is time for a spare key...

Joey and Aubrey being eaten by a shark

Our little man
They never really grow up
Megan and Randy riding to Epcot

Human Sling shot

(Megan said it was better than riding her horse)

Dinner at Pirates

Pirates show

One of the stores at the mall

Doesn't Joey look thrilled?

Bryant's nice sun burn from a couple hours at the beach

Lunch at Chili's

Joey's lobster nose

He loved the water

Bryant and Randy wrestling... again

Hot and getting hotter

2009-01-11T05:43:00.000-08:00

I forgot how much I love and have missed Sarasota, FL and the Siesta Keys. The beautiful weather and the relaxing beach. All I can say is WOW! So far on our trip the boys have been working so Megan and I have been hanging out at the pool and the beach with the kids. It has been really fun and I really enjoy having someone to chat with while laying out on the sand.

After a couple of minutes Joey was finally having fun

Aubrey is our little fish and there was no stopping her

Wyatt in his awesome clothes

The kids got a long great on the beachWyatt's first time in the water

Vacation or headache?

2009-01-08T07:17:00.000-08:00

So we have made it a tradition since we have been married to go to FL every January, and every January we come home broke and waiting for the next check to arrive in the mail. This year I decided that I didn't want to go through that once again. But... after stating my concerns Bryant has reassured me that this year would be different. I agree this year it will be different, we have 3 kids! So I am wondering how enjoyable this "vacation" will be. I must say I am really looking forward to getting out of this freezing weather. So wish us luck and we will keep you updated. Oh yeah one other plus... we will be on broadband connection so it won't take us a year to post things. lol

Of coarse Joey won't sleep like a good little boy.

We need to find out what they took and give some to Joey.

New Years

2009-01-04T16:19:00.000-08:00

After being out in WI for 9 months we were finally able to spend some time with Travis, Nicole and their puppy Ruby. We had a lot of fun and enjoyed their company, not too sure what they got out of it but hopefully they will come back. We opened the New Year sharing a toast with the ones we love, and then the next day was when the real party began... Travis and Nicole were able to ride Clyde. I must say I was very impressed with how much Travis knows about horses. He looked like a pro up there! Then we came in for some Pork and Saur Kraut. It wasn't bad but it wasn't like Dad makes it that's for sure. The kids really enjoyed having them out and loved the Ruby. They acted like they had never seen a dog before, and Mater wasn't quite sure what to do with her. Right before they left we went out for a night on the town, kid free. It great getting to know them better. I will be posting pictures as soon as my computer stops geeking out.

2008-12-27T11:19:00.000-08:00

Abby

My children have recently discovered

that they are Super Heros

(Grandma made their uniforms)

Wyatt a 1 1/2 months old

Random Pics

2008-12-27T07:57:00.001-08:00

End of the year

2008-12-27T07:18:00.000-08:00

November was a very eventful month for our family. We had both my family and Bryant's family out on the property for Thanksgiving and Wyatt's blessing. Thanksgiving was filled with lots of good foods, favorites from both sides. There were a total of 22 people gathering. The next day Mom and I got up early for our Black Friday shopping spree. We got a lot of great deals and had a lot of fun, Wyatt was a good sport. The following Sunday Wyatt was blessed with all of the family there, when we got home we had a brunch and then a Birthday party for Aubrey.

It has been cold but not as cold as it will be for the rest of the winter. Bryant has been busy with the stables and all of the drama that comes along with it. You have no idea how much drama there really is, so because of this we have decided not to make a business out of caring for other people's horses. Bryant was able to shoot the first pheasant on the property, but is still waiting for the perfect deer. We want it to be mount worthy! So we will wait patiently.

Aubrey had a great Birthday and enjoyed having friends and family there. She takes after her Uncle Dustin. He always had an obsession with horses and at the age of 2 I think she loves them about as much as he did. So for her birthday she got a lot of fun toys, pretty princess clothes and horse stuff. This is Jasper her miniature horse.

December is almost over and we are now driving home from a nice visit back to PA. It has been a nice month, but one that went by too fast. Christmas was very nice and was spent with my parents. This year Bryant found his gift early as he does every year, but was still slightly surprised. Joey was excited for his gifts but was too tired or out of it to show it. Aubrey was excited over everything and has developed some personality on our trip. She loves to tease and is soooo cute when she does it.

It is hard having to leave PA and my family. Life in WI is getting better but it still isn't home and it doesn't have my family. But I guess we won't be here for forever so let's just pray it goes by fast. At least now I can have a warm car without having to go outside and start it myself. Automatic car starter BABY!! Merry Christmas to me. j/k But it will be really nice. Until next post!

Life in Wisconsin

2008-10-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

So much has happened over these past couple of months... Bryant and I have opened a horse boarding facility here on the property and have named it Grandview Stables. Bryant's hoof trimming business is going well, and keeping him busy. He has also taken on a new hobby. He now is working on being a horse trainer. lol We have a 9 yr old Arabian who is not broke at all but is a very fast learner and eager to please. Bryant started working with him and then decided him being the cowboy he is should get on and ride him, I have never been more scared in my life. The thought of both of us being in the hospital was a little much. (me having the baby and him in a full body cast) Thankgoodness my prayer was answered and noone was hurt, but we did get a good laugh.

Joey has been potty trained for sometime now, we thought that time would never come. Now we just have to work on the no peeing in public. (county fairs, at the park for play group, in front of boarders) This kids has no shame. He is a good big brother and has taught his sister how to deffend herself at least from him.

Aubrey is our little princess (who am I kidding...) she is a little scrapper and nobody better mess with her. She can deffinately hold her own. She is an animal lover like her Mom and is obsessed with horses like her Uncle Dustin. She is with or on the horses out here every chance she gets.

I have been doing well and am glad to be done with this last pregnancy. After these past nine months I am not looking forward to growing old. I felt like I was eighty and you should have seen me walk you would have thought the same thing. But now it's all over with... My delivery was amazing and painless, almost like a fairytale :). Wyatt Ammon Hess was born on the 10th of October. He was 7lbs 9 oz and 20 1/4 inches long. He has been a wonderful addition to our family and a great baby. Joey loves his baby brother and Aubrey loves his ears. (Don't ask) She is like a little Mom and lets me know as soon as he starts fussing.

After only 6 1/2 months we now have 2 dogs, 1 cat, 2 cows, 1 sheep, 3 horses, and several chickens. I don't think I left anyone out. I have really enjoyed the animals over the past couple of months... the have helped me through move. And have been very entertaining.

Crazy Spring

2008-03-31T17:57:00.000-07:00

Well, as most of you know our family decided to up and move out to Wisconsin. Things have been kinda crazy and haven't really gone as planned. I have been staying in PA with the kids living at my parents house, while Bryant has been rounding up customers out in WI. Not exactly as fun as it sounds. After finding a house that I just fell in love with, we decided to become neighbors with his parents. We will be living on a 40 acre farm raising fish and who knows what else. It will deffinately keep us busy.

The kids have really started to grow up. Joey is a chatter box and says the craziest things. And Aubrey is working on her personality and becoming an expert on giving the cold shoulder. They are enjoying the time with Grandma and Grandpa but are missing their Dad. The other day I took Joey with me to go see the baby (ultrasound), he was so excited. The doctor gave him pictures of the baby and he was thrilled. When we got home he walked up to our cat named Baby and said, "Look Baby it's you!!" The cat's new name is lucky, all we needed was him to think I had a cat in my belly.

Well, that seems to be it for now Joey is letting me know it's time to go night night. Hope all is well.
The Hess Family