James Gang

One Potato, Two Potato, Three Potato, Four...

2009-11-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

Most everyone knows that we grow primarily alfalfa around here, but this year we added some potato's to the harvest. Keith and Ben decided to give away these fine spuds to anyone who wanted them. A Saturday was planned for people to come out and help dig and take their fair share...and boy did they. I think Keith said we gave away around 6 tons of red potato's. One of the days, I decided to take a few pics and I thought it would be fun to share. I hope you enjoy and if you are in need of potato's give us a hollar.

The Mighty Hunters

2009-10-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

This year Ben decided that Jesse was old enough to go on the hunt with Ben...not sure who was happier, Jesse or me. I was pretty proud of the pictures that Ben took on their adventures. Enjoy! PS-you will notice that there is not a picture of a buck. I wonder if that will be the excuse for why Jesse is staying home next year ;)

James Gang 2009

2009-08-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

Here they are...I have been anticipating these pics for soooooo long! I called my super, fabulous, artistic, cousin up north and we made a deal. I asked if she would take the pics and I would do the editing. Well, she couldn't resist editing some...photographer thing :) I added some of my grunge/dirty background stuff to my liking, but dug the originals too! Michelle...you are amazing and I am so grateful for you and the time you took out of your busy life to create a part of mine. Thanks again. Much love-The James' PS-I could no way decide on one so I am going to cover a wall in different shapes and sizes of all the pics!

Jesse's undefeated record finally broken...

2009-07-28T19:15:00.000-07:00

I have to explain this a little. Four years ago, my sisters and I were all pregnant. We found out they were all boys...how exciting this was! I thought 3 little buddies to grow up together. Well, things are not that pretty lol. There is always a fight and my guy Jesse is the meanest of them all. Let me remind you that he is also the smallest. I am hoping as they grow up they will become pals and Hunter will back Jesse's mouth! Between the both of them they should be tuff...Hunter has the mass and Jesse has the attitude. I am sure the future holds some trials for Ben and I as parents. Back to today...Jesse lost this battle for sure. I had a long day at the dentist office and was so excited to be home. I stopped at Grandma Beth's to pick up Jesse and he was playing on the trampoline with Hunter. Five minutes later I was on my way back to Dr.Howards to extract Jesse's two front teeth :( Let me remind you all...Paige knocked out hers on the tub when she was 3 and has been missing them ever since. My poor toothless kids...I hope this pattern quickly changes! After looking at the broke in half root, I then turned my focus to his GI-NORMOUS permanent teeth. For real...he is going to be the biggest geek ever lol! I was worried about the girls, but I don't think we will need to worry about that now :) Anyway, the other picture is of Hunter's head with the two holes from Jesse's teeth. I think I will call it a day...until next time...the good, the bad, the UGLY signing off.

My Girls, my girls, talkin' bout my girls...my girls!

2009-07-18T12:49:00.000-07:00

Road Trip

2009-07-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

I always look forward to our trips to Wyoming. Ben and I used to travel to Green River often. When my parents retired and sold the home that I grew up in, I will admit...it was hard. I felt like a huge part of my life was gone. I actually made Ben do a drive by so I could see it. I have so many memories of GR, and so many people that I love so much. Most of 'mi familia' is still there. This particular trip was a quick, but so much fun. We decided to ride the motorcycle up Thursday for the cage fights and turnaround and drive back Friday. Ben loves UFC...probably more than me ;) Anyway, we got a ringside table and thoroughly enjoyed the bloody brawls...sick, but true. We woke up Friday to pouring rain and pondered what we were going to do. We decided to hit the road and go for it. By Delta, I really wanted to die! My butt hurt sooooo bad! A new seat is definitely in the plans...actually we are considering getting me my own bike (watch out lol). That could be very scary! I promised Ben some new chaps for Father's Day, so we stopped in Orem and bought them. I am thinking SEXY!!! I have found they can be used for more than motorcycle riding...sorry, I could not resist. It is that untamed wild heart coming out...lol. I have so much more to tell, so I will be posting soon. C-ya

Animal Rescue 911

2009-06-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

These last couple of days have been a little on the traumatic side. First, I will tell you about our little friend the burrowing owl. I went on a hike in the East hills Saturday and found this injured burrowing owl. He had a broken wing and I could not just leave him to die, so instead I brought him home to die. Not really, I contacted the bird rescue man in Cedar and was going to drive this owl half way to meet him, but unfortunately he died before that happened. Paige called my mom to tell her of our sad news. My mother asked her what we were going to do and Paige told her we were waiting for Ben to get home so we could have family prayer...this is too funny. It only gets better. We decided to bury Owl in our pet cemetary (our like 7th burial...farm life). Ben got the shovel and was thrilled he found a soft spot to dig, well little did he know, he was digging up Bunny Foo Foo. I heard Ben say "oh crap" and start covering up something before the kids could see. I am dying laughing...as I type this. We finally laid owl to rest and decided to start marking the graves, so that does not happen again. That was the end of our friend Owl's story. On to the next...Scarface. Last night, Paige came running in the house yelling for me to come and see. I could tell it was serious, so I ran out to find a kitty missing half of its face..for real. I was freaking out! Ben came out and was like what is hanging on its face...I said "its face". It was totally disgusting! Ben got some scissors and removed the mass of nastiness off of her poor face. We are not sure what happened to this kitty, but I could not let him end her life if she survived this already. So today, the kids and I made a trip to the vet. Yep, $75 bucks later we now have a new member of the family. I'm sorry about the picture, but I had to show to prove how bad it really is. I hope I am teaching my kids compassion, but Ben said that Jesse is going to be a sissy because of it. Oh well...we will love Scarface until he gets hit by a car.

A piece of Heaven...

2009-06-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

April 18th, 2009 we became sealed for all time and eternity in the St.George temple. I have really been pondering about how words could possible describe this experience. As the days led up to our special day I was feeled with a mix of emotions...for the most part I was anxious, excited, nervous, not sure what to expect, etc. Then there was the part of me that felt like I did not deserve such an amazing promise. I have put this post off for so long because I knew I would bawl the whole time. As tears roll down my face, I want my friends and family to know that the gospel really saved me from a long hard road. I know with all my heart and soul that this is the way. As soon as I walked into the temple I was filled with the overwhelming power of the spirit. Truly, I felt like I was walking around Heaven. I personally that that we are all on our own journey, and that there is a time for everyone to decide what is best for their own life and family. I will forever be grateful for the people that influenced my life for the better. To this very day I do not think of myself as better than an individual struggling with whatever it may be, but instead as a chance to help them better their lives. My husband has one of the most sincere, genuine hearts of any man that I have known. He has been through so much during his life here on earth, but has become an amazing person from it all. How did I ever get so lucky to have him for all eternity is beyond my comprehension. Here are a few pictures of our special day. I love the one of Jensen knocking on Heaven's door. When Jesse was asked how the temple made him feel, his reply "I felt perfect" Wow!

Wild Hogs

2009-06-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Those who know me well...know that I have an untamed wild heart. One of my life dreams was to be a biker babe (the nice "b" word lol). There was always such a free spirited feeling that went along with the whole biker image. Well, lucky me...I married a free spirited, wild at heart, biker hunk...together we have truly fullfilled many of our dreams. This last weekend we rode the bike through the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. I am still amazed at the beauty! We went through Cedar, Toquerville, Colorado City, Fredonia, The Kiabab, Jacob's Lake, Kanab, and back through Zion. We hit rain, snow (and no we don't have all the gear...yet), strong winds, and sun. Even though the weather was not cooperating, I was sitting behind the love of my life taking it all head on. Ben is everything I could have ever wanted in a man. He gives me so much security and I know with him beside me I can do anything I ever wanted. I love life and I definitely love LIVING life!

Slacker...

2009-05-28T09:32:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am talking about me...the one who was overly excited about entering the blog world. I have so much to post and tell everyone about, but time just slips right out from under me. I once thought I had no life and no friends, but little did I know...I was so popular in cyber space lol I may be delirious because I am now laughing at myself. Anyway, be prepared...I have devoted some time to catching up on my blog this week. Peace out :)

Spring time

2009-05-06T06:53:00.001-07:00

I believe it to be true, spring is FINALLY here. This weather has been much anticipated, so we took full advantage and started the yard work. I don't know about other kids, but mine love the water. I actually get so frustrated because at least 3 times a day they either take a bath (flood the bathroom floor), or dispose of all clothing and run through the sprinklers. Sprinklers and I have a love hate relationship. I get so tired of all the laundry! Instead of coming in and getting suits on they just ditch the clothes wherever the dirtiest spot is and then proceed to run over them with their wet bodies. Here are some pics of our family the other night playing in the yard while Dad worked on the sprinkler system. Note 1: Jensen is eating her cheeto with snot all over her face...I apologize. Note 2: The wedgie is my fav lol

PS I am having issues with the pictures downloading. I will put them on after I punch my computer about 50 times.

Help...please!

2009-05-04T14:49:00.000-07:00

I am not sure what has been going on around here lately, but I am ready to throw in the towel with this whole motherhood stuff. I must vent...it really helps me release these demons inside of me lol! I am starting to understand child abuse...really! Jesse is the chicken butt around here for sure. EVERY night he crawls into my bed (bad enough), but what really gets me...his diaper leaks onto my nice new bed 99% of the time. If anyone has any idea on what to do about this, let me know. He broke my Mother's Day present that I never got to use :( Paige and Jesse told Ben and I they hated us, church, and their stupid clothes. I am sitting here laughing, but really it is getting to me. Paige told her grandma that I don't love her and she didn't miss her family at all (this after I let her go where she wanted for 3 days). We were always told that when you are preparing to go to the temple, Satan really works his magic on the family. The crazy thing is we never felt anything bad, as a matter a fact, it was all too good. Well...little did I know, we would be slammed with the true everyday trials. I knew this was not the easy road :) I must start going to my quiet place more often and pleading for help from above. Until then...you wise, perfect moms, help a sister out lol!

Out with the old...in with the new...

2009-04-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

Sand that is! We finally dug out the horrible dirty free sand from the river bed and replaced it with new super awesome sand (I think I wanted it more than anyone lol). I love the texture of it and will spend my fair share of time playing in it. Jesse was sure proud and loved helping Dad get it in the sand box.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-15T14:04:00.001-07:00

I can honestly say this was one of the best Easter's I have had in a long time. I had around 30 family members come to the farm and we had a blast. My sister's husband had a bunny suit and I dang near peed my pants laughing so hard. I grew up very close to my cousins. I think of them more like siblings and I am so grateful for the childhood memories that I have of them. I want them to know how important they are in my life and that my heart is filled when I am around them. Thinking of them brings that saying to mind..."We may not have it all together, but together we have it all"...not sure if that is how it goes, but you get the picture. I hope your Easter was enriched with gratitude for the amazing sacrifice our Savior endured for us to feel peace in our hearts. I love the gospel and what it has done for my family!

Jesse's Haircut...

2009-04-02T17:25:00.000-07:00

No really, Jesse's haircut! Yep, we are getting our new family pic in a couple of weeks and he decided to take some cuts out of his hair. I've really been working on not worrying about the little mishaps, so I did not make a big deal out of it. I did finish it off...he looks much better with hair! I just had an idea...I will start giving him prenatal's lol!

James Farm Inc.

2009-03-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

Not just a business, it's our way of life. This is what it is all about...Family! We are in the process of getting a website for the farm, so I thought I would share the picture. Pretty sweet hoodies huh...Ben designed them. Check out the website www.jamesfarminc.com I thought this would be fun for family and friends to see what we really do around here.

Can't help myself...

2009-03-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

I know my husband hates when I put random strangers on my blog...but I seriously cannot contain myself from sharing this awesome pictures. I cannot tell you how much I loved this session. Beautiful people + awesome personalities + open minds = Masterpieces! Does this not make you want to be young again?

Horn Hunting

2009-03-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

Since when does snow ruin a perfect horn hunting weekend? Not around here...bright and early Saturday morning we were getting ready for a day in the hills...not the OC if you know what I mean. The last three weekends Ben has spent waiting for these deer to drop their horns. He just knows that while he is looking at them through his binoculars they are going to fall off. Jesse and I were the only troopers to survive this trip. Could have done without bitter cold, but we had a good time anyway. Some may ask themselves...why is their son without shoes in the freezing cold? I have given up on shoes...and socks for that matter. I have spent countless dollars on socks and shoes and I seem to never know where they are...true story...but I really did have boots on him that day...he just took them off as soon as we got back to the truck. Don't take my children from me...I really do try to be a good mother lol

Only in Milford Utah

2009-03-09T12:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I walked around the corner after hearing Ben tell the kids to plug their ears and this is what I found. I said "seriously?????" with a dumbfounded look on my face. After realizing that this was totally blog worthy, I grabbed my camera. He knew my intentions instantly...the exact words out of his mouth was "so you can make fun of me on the blog." You know you are a redneck when you shoot gofers out the window of your house! Nevermind the fact that my kids are always half clothed hehe.

Shabby Baby Model Search

2009-02-26T15:49:00.000-08:00

Why is Paige James a "Picture Princess"? This is a hard question because I really don't like to brag about my children's appearance and I have always felt that the greatest beauty one can bestow is in the heart. So here we go...First, I am a picture lover and Paige has been the best princess to practice on. Most five year olds can not change expressions or poses very easily, but Paige will put on whatever face I ask her to. Her mild manner, amazing eyes, and gorgeous hair is what makes her pictures stand out. I love the Shabby Apple clothing line and would love to see my princess in them. The dress that Paige and I picked out for her is the VINEYARD http://www.shabbyapple.com/p-82-vineyard.aspx little girls and girls dresses from shabby baby. So fellow bloggers...go check out these adorable dresses...they have them for you too :) And Good Luck Paige!

Farm Life

2009-02-26T09:43:00.000-08:00

7 years ago I can honestly say I was not thrilled about living in Milford. It was new, different, and not an easy adjustment. However, here I am now and could not imagine life anywhere else. I have tried to think of what else Ben and I could do, or where else we would live, and I can't even come up with something comparable let alone better. I have heard talks about being rich, not monetary, but instead a life fullfilled with love, and countless blessings. I would have to say that we are rich. Here is a picture of the farm right before harvest. I take for granted this place I call home, but I love what it provides for my family.

Anyone need some uplifting words? lol

2009-02-25T08:33:00.001-08:00

Last week I was able to attend my first dental convention. Was I excited or what...something I love and a getaway to boot. The luncheon was good, but the best part was the speaker. This was my first experience with John Bytheway (I guess he speaks at schools in Utah), and he left a lasting impression on my heart. He compared life to a strenuous hike he accomplished as a young boy scout. The most important part of the hike is what you put in your pack. You will have to bear with me...there is a reason why I am not a motivational speaker lol. Anyway...if you carry regrets, sorrow, guilt, you know the stuff that weighs on your heart, then the journey is much harder. So use the power of repentance, the unconditional love of our Savior, accept the things we cannot change, and find joy in the journey. Are you ready for the kicker...the easiest way to lighten your load, is to lighten someone elses. So...so for others what you know lightens your own load. Man I am feeling uplifted all over again. The next concept really is the icing on the cake. Sometimes we get so caught up in what others have and all the worldly ways start to affect who we are and what we want. "If you are nothing without it, then you will be nothing with it" Seriously...does that make you rethink so much? It does me. I also want to share this quote I heard in a financial class. I love it...so true. "We are constantly spending money we don't have, on things we don't need, to impress people we don't like." Wait a minute, we love everyone :) Well I guess I will go and reevaluate myself for the rest of the day!

Just wanted to share...

2009-02-23T12:10:00.000-08:00

I have been crying for the last hour and I decided that I wanted to share this story with others. First, I need to say that I take for granted my children so much. I don't seem to thoroughly appreciate every hug, every kiss, every silly thing they say, and most importantly their life here with me. I honestly can't imagine what I would be without them. I knew the moment that they were placed in my arms there was something so powerful and meaningful to me. It was a love that I had never felt before. There are still times that I find myself lost in the moment thinking about the Plan of Happiness. I can't believe I went so long without truly knowing my purpose here on earth. I don't know how to express myself sometimes, but I wish I could just magically put these feelings into others hearts, so they could for one second feel the peace and love that I now feel. I will never be perfect, but that is Ok. I am learning every day, and I pray for help to strengthen the weaknesses that I have daily. Back to the story, I want everyone to go and read about this couple's trial...be prepared to cry...ALOT! I wish I could take some of their sorrow away. http://themcclenahans.blogspot.com/

Just Another Moment w/Jesse James

2009-02-11T11:01:00.000-08:00

I informed Jesse yesterday that he is no longer to climb in the tub with mom. He was quite upset and asked why. I told him that big boys do not take baths with their moms, so he quicky replied "I don't want to grow up"! He proceeds to remove his clothing and I was meaning strict business, so I said "No"...again! He wasn't about to stop at that, he is not one to walk away without winning the fight, so he yelled "And I don't want to be a farmer!" I was trying to not give him a reaction because that is what he was looking for, but I was laughing so hard on the inside. Then came his last attempt to make me mad, "And I am not going to church anymore either!" Life is exciting and entertaining with little ones.

Can I say PIMP...really?

2009-02-04T12:54:00.000-08:00

Every time we get Jesse ready for church or to actually go somewhere besides the sand pit in the back, endless mud everywhere on the farm, or just to veg in his undies we always tell him that he looks pimp. Whether this is a good thing or not (our awesome parenting skills that I have mentioned previously) it has become the lingo around here. If he likes what I am wearing he tells me that my shirt is pimp. It is quite funny! So anyway, here is my son looking pretty PIMP!

Jensen the guinne pig (spelling ????) you get the idea

2009-02-04T10:08:00.000-08:00

I have been on a steady uphill climb trying to gather as much knowledge and experience as I can. Due to the extreme cold weather, most people do not want pictures right now, which has given me more time to play (in Photoshop of course). I did my first newborn session and I am so happy with the results. My tiny room barely fit the group that came to assist, but it got the job done. Anyway my website is finally up and live and I need to new upload my pictures, but there are a few out there @ http://www.picturethisframethat.com/ Here is my latest of Jensen...I was practicing on black and white with a tad bit of color (sepia) and sharpening the eyes. I love the end result.

Happy Birthday Babe!!

2009-02-02T14:43:00.000-08:00

Ben turned 29 on the 29th. I can't believe that he was only 19 when we met. Looking back, I never imagined that I would be preparing to go to the temple with Ben and our three children. We are still the same people that we were back then, but instead we decided to take a different path. The path that we have chosen is definitely not the easy route. I took the easy way out way to many times, and found out that you can only bury so much into your heart before it can't take it anymore. I am not sure why I feel like sharing so much right now, but for some reason I do. During the weakest moment in my life...some will never have to experience the pain that I felt in my heart about two years ago. I literally lost myself somewhere along the way. Always trying to find something better or an escape from reality, I finally hit bottom. Every time I had challenges, I would run from the consequences, instead of facing them. I was ready to walk away from one of the greatest blessings in my life. I was in a dark, lonely place and could see no way out on my own. A man came to visit me during this time and what he told me changed my life. He said that there was one and only one man that could help me and his hand was reaching out waiting for me to grab it. Words could never the express the feelings that I then experienced when I reached out. The missionaries started to come and teach Ben and I the lessons. They brought a spirit so strong into our home that we could never deny. I truly believe that there is a time for each person on this earth to hear the gospel and only they will know when that is. This was our time to grow and become the people that we were sent here to be. We have learned so much and I will forever be grateful for the forgiving heart that my husband has. He really is amazing and I look forward to eternity with my family.

Bonquisha!!

2009-01-15T14:17:00.000-08:00

Every year we get Paige's hair braided in Mexico. Mostly for me, because she had too much hair and it is always a fight to comb it. This is what she looks like after I take the braids out. I always wonder if it was worth it when I am fighting her to take them out, but the after fact is hilarious. She has soooooo much hair!

Just want to share..

2009-01-08T18:07:00.000-08:00

I love to see a picture and feel the emotion along with it. I took this picture at the orphanage in Mexico and I knew it represented so much. I always have a hard time putting what I feel in words, so I called upon my partner Jody Robb to help explain and analyze this photo. This is what she said:

"The emotion behind this shot is the incongruity of a recognizable plaything alone in an setting that is murky, unstable, and maybe even a bit distructive. It is out of its element. But the nature of the object is not destroyed by that less than optimum environment. It still has the potential to be a toy, something that will bring joy, competition, interaction, laughter, stress…all the things that are brought out in the game of life. It needs human interaction to reach its full potential. It looks like it is just waiting there, hoping to become what it really is." Isn't she amazing?

Beauty and the BEAST!

2009-01-08T13:53:00.000-08:00

When Paige was a little girl she went through a stage I will never forget. There is a children's book about a bear named Bruce that was not always nice. Well, anway whenever she was not being nice we would call her Bruce. This became her second personality for about a year. She even had a look for it. My family will always remember Bruce. Every now and then he comes out and this is what he looks like. I am telling you...she is beautiful, but don't let that fool you.

2009-01-08T11:51:00.000-08:00

I usually am only interested in taking pictures of people, but I got a wild hair and starting shooting different things on our trip. I really like these two pictures!

Our day at the nude beach!!

2009-01-08T11:45:00.001-08:00

Can I say...Baby got Back!! Yes, my daughter has junk in her trunk. Nothing in the world is as cute as naked babies. I love how comfortable they are with their beautiful figures. If only we could never worry about what we look like to everyone else. I did not take her swimsuit to the beach because it was freezing, but she insisted on playing in the water...and the sand!

A Child's Hope Foundation

2009-01-03T21:27:00.000-08:00

Our family had the opportunity to go to Mexico and help at an orphanage. What an amazing experience! I am not sure that words can even express how fullfilling this was for our family. I was nervous that I would not be able to handle the situation, because I have a very soft spot in my heart for children or families in need. It is easy to send money, or talk about how sad it is, but to actually make the sacrifice to go and work and see first hand is an entirely different feeling. The first day, I was standing in the playground and from across the playground a young girl came up and wrapped her arms around me. I had to hold back my tears...it was not just a little hug, but instead a hug I would get from my own child. Another day, I decided to spend in the nursery with the infants and toddlers. I left there crying as well. Not because they were not taking care of them, but because of how excited they were just to be held. Paige and Jesse spent hours with the orphans...Jesse actually was confused for one of them more than once. I took quite a few photos, but this certain once captured my heart. This is what it was all about to me...unity!

Life's Tough Lessons

2008-12-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

About one year ago my computer had a falling out, so we paid the computer guy Jeff :) to fix it. At that time he told me that I needed to start backing up all my files. Fast forward...to this last weekend. I now have hundreds of family pictures, my entire business portfolio, and my Quickbooks. Well, I HAD this, until my freakin computer crashed again and I lost everything :( I seriously cried all day Sunday, and have been trying to figure the life lesson that coincides with this incident (besides backing up). I just know that there must be something that I need to learn from this. Maybe it is that I need to know that the most important things in life are not on my computer. I know this sounds funny, but I have neglected my family trying to keep everyone else happy. I truly am thankful for Ben and the kids, and I often take for granted the fact that I get to stay at home with them. This all reminds me of the following quote, "the most important work you will ever do, will be within the walls of your own home." I want to put this quote in vinyl lettering above my computer desk to keep me on task. I would love to post a picture, but I don't have any!!!!

My First Bridal Session

2008-12-18T15:14:00.001-08:00

I was really excited about doing a bridal session, so I offered this bride a deal :) I took all of her pictures for free so that I could use them for a portfolio. I ended up with 23 pictures that I loved. Anyway, here are a few of my favs. What do you all think? I value all opinions and construcive criticizm (spelling??)

O' Christmas Tree, O' Christmas Tree

2008-12-10T10:06:00.000-08:00

My fellow bloggers, I must first make a public apology for having a life outside of blogging lol! What started out as a on the side hobby, has consumed my life. The photography business has grown far beyond any expectations that I had. I actually did 6 sessions in one week (never again!) I was up in the wee hours of the morning editing pictures. I love it, but I love sleep much better :) Anyway, I decided to post these pictures of the Christmas tree hunt. I love Jesse's Charlie Brown Tree. We let the kids pick out trees for their room, and you can see what they picked. I had to post the snowball fight as well. I think my mom meant business.

Bad Boy Jesse James

2008-11-16T11:12:00.000-08:00

Ladies, I must send out a fair warning for my son. Keep your girls far away from him. Yesterday, he was watching a movie with Paige when he came to tell me that a girl and boy were kissing. I said "that's gross"! I assumed that is what he was getting at until he quickly replied, "that's not gross momma, that's pretty"! Now I know why you must worry when you have little girls. He must have got that from his father, because all I hear about is how "wanted" my man was back in the day. I seriously beg him to put on those tight wranglers, but he won't! So I guess, I can look at pictures of the mullet and wranglers and dream lol!! I must clarify that Ben did not give me that info. I hear from all the young girlies :)

Whitney Bug!!

2008-11-12T20:12:00.000-08:00

While babysitting my little Whitney Bug, I was able to get these pictures at her mothers request. She is 18 months old. I had to share them, as I can't get over how cute she is. I know you are all wondering why she has no shoes, but you will have to ask her mom lol? I still love them and character is always better! For those who don't know, this is Dusty and Michaela Wiseman's little girl.

Cheney's

2008-11-10T20:19:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to post my last photo opportunity. I know I am not a pro at this yet, but I am learning everyday. I just want to thank those individuals that are trusting me with capturing their family. Thanks Lindsay!

Sweet Baby Jensen

2008-11-06T12:03:00.001-08:00

I LOVE HER SO MUCH!!!!

Happy Birthday Jensen!

2008-11-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

This week has been sad for me. I had to hand over my mother of the year award due to my ignorance and lack of priortizing! Jensen turned one on November 2, and I did not even buy her a present. I also did not dress her up for Halloween. I know...I am probably going to get turned in to DFS (I think that is what it is called) anyway the place that takes your children away. I truly do love her and she has been an amazing child. Right from the start it was all good! I pushed once and there she was. After the first two labors, I deserved an easy one. She has been sleeping no less than 8 to 9 hours a night since she was two months old. At 10 months she just started walking around, it kind of freaked me out. Anyway here are some pictures of my little Jensen. We love her vibrant, fiesty, personality.

James' Believe It or Not

2008-11-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

1.Ben was walking through the airport sporting a pink camoflauge backpack!

2.Ben's wedding band is still in Florida :(

3.Upon returning to the resort after a long day at Disney World, I realized that I left my camera on the tram that took us to parking. I, of course was a frantic mess. I convinced Ben that we needed to go back and try to find it. He really did not want to. Amazingly I walked right up to the guy that found my camera on the tram. I really had to contain myself from giving him a bear hug. I don't think he will ever know how happy he made me!

4.After returning to the SLC airport, we gathered our luggage then Keith and Ben were headed to parking to get the vehicles...well that was the plan until Keith realized that the key to the car was still in vehicle that we rented in Florida! Which leads me to #5.

5.Ben drove a mini-van around Florida, you heard me right, and not only that... he stated that it had more get-up then my Yukon!

6.The drive home was so long. We were completely exhausted but did not want to unload all of our stuff and get a room, so we decided to head home. I can't sleep while others are driving because I have a fear of them falling asleep. I kept asking Ben if he was alright, and he reassured me every time that he was OK. I leaned my seat back, but never took my eyes off of the road. I all of a sudden saw the Yukon heading off the road. I started screaming Ben, Ben, BEN! He had fallen asleep. I was freaked out!! This is seriously one of my worries, and it was coming true. He could not believe it either. Needless to say, I drove us home. It was not easy, and we learned that the risks are not worth it. If you are tired...DO NOT DRIVE!!!!

7.Last, but surely not least. They talked me into entering the hula hoop contest at the pool. I made it through round #1 with a breeze. I had to add a hoop for the second round and I fell apart. I can't believe that I am posting this picture, but you gotta love the stance. I meant business!!!

Disney World

2008-11-01T20:13:00.000-07:00

I was the most excited about our venture to Walt Disney World. It truly is the happiest place on earth, and I explained thoroughly to my children that there were no cry babies or whiny kids allowed there. It must have worked because they all spent 8 hours at the park and enjoyed every minute of it. Disney holds a magical spot in my heart...I will confess...I LOVE IT!!!!

Blizzard Beach

2008-10-31T14:23:00.000-07:00

We spent one of the days at Blizzard Beach. I am not sure who had more fun, the guys or the kids. My kids are waterbugs and would live there if I would let them. Ben, Keith, Kaleb, and Nicholas took there brave souls to the top of Summit Plummit (the name gives it no justice), by the time they hit bottom they were traveling speeds of up to 55 mph. The waterpark wedgie is free with admission!!! Ben said that his butt cheeks were burning. I could not get myself to experience such a sensation due to the fact that there are a lot more places for my swimsuit to hide than in the younger years if you no what I mean. Instead, I merely laughed at them!

Florida

2008-10-31T14:01:00.000-07:00

I know you all re expecting some fabulous pictures from our family trip...but I left my fourth child (Nikon D80) at home. I decided it would be too much to try and carry around. I convinced Ben that we needed a smaller, more compact camera to take with us on these occasions. Lucky me :) we stopped and bought the Nikon Coolpix camera to take on our trip. It is cute and fun...but not the D80!!! I will first share the fun...then the, let's just say, it all can't be great. We stayed in a presidential suite at the Wyndham resort in Walt Disney World...oh yeah!!! I am having technical difficulties trying to place the pictures where I want them. Anway, these are the pictures of the what the kids called grandma's house. It was four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and decorated to the hilt (2500 square ft.) On each side was a master suite with jacuzzi tubs. I know what you are thinking...Paige, Jesse, Jensen, and me all in the bubble bath...exactly!!! I would do anything to take my own bubble bath, but instead I have kid(S) asking me questions, and telling me things that are rather insulting.

Beanies For Sale!!!!

2008-10-22T10:47:00.000-07:00

I had this great idea to order 100 beanies and sell them to make some money to start paying off some of my photography debt. I had great intentions of making the flower clips to add to them! Well, now the rest of the story. I am exhausted and cannot find any extra time to worry about making flower clips and I know they are for sale at numerous places. So I have decided to just sell them for a great deal. They are super cute and can be worn dressed up or just casual with braids. I have dark brown, black, white, and three shades of pink. If you buy three or more you can have them for $5/each instead of $7/each. So please spread the word!!!

My Nephews

2008-10-20T15:51:00.000-07:00

My sister bought her first house here in Milford and I am so happy. It has been a blessing to have her and the boys close to me. She asked me to help her decorate her home, and I thought what better way than with pictures (of course). I took these today and the ones of them together are going to be printed on a double matboard so that you do not have to use a frame (way cool).
P.S. I can do so many different things through my printing company, and I am more than willing to share with friends and family. If you would like to print your own pictures with some of my finishing services give me a buzz!

Unconditional Love

2008-10-18T14:15:00.001-07:00

The last couple of days have been hard for me. I find it amazing how harsh individuals can be, and I sometimes wish I could find the time to worry about all the choices that others make. I have always loved people, and have given every person that I have met a chance to share their story with me. I myself have made terrible decisions throughout life, but I have learned so much. I was looking through my pictures and I came across this one in particular. It touched me so much. I remember feeling so alone and empty during the trials that I have faced. Since I have learned about the gospel, I feel so much gratitude to be able to teach my children about the savior and his unconditional love for each one of us. I don't ever want them to feel alone and empty, and I want to make sure they know to reach out to those that hurt and search for the good in every soul.

Major Trauma!

2008-10-15T21:00:00.001-07:00

Yesterday evening we were having dinner with the missionaries at Keith and Beth's house. I showed up early because the kids had spent the day at grandma's. As I was lying on the floor, Jensen came up from behind me and cracked me in the face with a willowtree figurine. I literally felt my tooth shatter. For most it probably would not have been a big deal...but for me it was HUGE. I seriously bawled for 30 minutes. I immediately called Dr. Howard because I realized at this point he was the most important person to me! I was crying so hard he could hardly understand me, he thought there was a death or something. It was much worse (jk, but I felt like it at the moment), the one thing that I really loved about myself was my smile and it was now ugly! Fortunately I work for Dr. Howard and he spent 2 1/2 hours fixing my tooth last night :) It will never be the same to ME...but my husband has informed me that I am overly obsessed with teeth, and most people would never notice.

Music

2008-10-13T11:12:00.000-07:00

OK ...I have added to my playlist. I know some are probably wondering what the deal is with the old stuff, some think I am weird, and others are containing themselves from dancing around in front of the computer. Those would be the friends that really know me. I have always loved music (mostly 80's). There is a memory linked with most of these songs, and I love to reminisce (spelling ?, but sounded good lol) about the past. I hope these songs will bring back memories to everyone!!

Happy Birthday Paige!

2008-10-12T18:14:00.000-07:00

Paige's birthday is tomorrow and I cannot believe that it has been five years since I first felt that unbelievable bond of a mother and child. I remember being nervous and excited as Ben and I were about to experience parenthood. So much has changed over the past few years, but I will ever be grateful for the journey that began with Paige. I am so thankful for this beautiful, smart, young girl. Paige is now the big sister/mother to Jesse and Jensen. I have to inform her frequently that she is not the boss! She politely tells me that I am not the boss either, but Dad is! I guess I will let her find out on her own someday that that is not the truth :) I decided to put several of my favorite pictures of Paige. Enjoy!

Cabin

2008-10-07T21:33:00.001-07:00

We spent conference weekend at the cabin in American Fork Canyon. Words cannot describe the beauty of nature. Ben, Jesse, and I took a ride up to Silver Lake and I was truly amazed! There is nothing more serene or peaceful than being in the mountains smelling fresh rain. I have...lets say a mild fettish with the smell of wet dirt or rocks. I know it is crazy, but I cannot help it. Ben makes fun of me all the time because of it.

Deer Hunt

2008-10-07T20:47:00.001-07:00

The day before the hunt ended Ben got his buck! It may not be the biggest...however he is the toughest. My mom, dad, Clayton and Ben had to track him for five miles after the first shot.

I have never really liked gamey meat, so Ben decided to make jerky. I was alright with that until I opened the fridge and found all of my tupperware with bloody, fatty, meat (just imagine gross), topped with all of my kitchen towels. I have to say I have not had much of an appetite since. All I can say is it is a good thing he is so good looking!

Our 2008 Family Picture

2008-10-03T10:41:00.000-07:00

OK...This was not easy!!!! You would think I have this whole concept down...but unfortunately things did not go my way :( Our rotton (did I just say that), I meant our wonderful children would not cooperate. Anyway this is the one I will place on the wall till next year!

The Rest of the Family...

2008-10-01T20:44:00.000-07:00

Here are some more the this fun family!

Tobey's

2008-10-01T20:38:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous Family!! I really enjoyed taking this family session. I love these so much that I am probably going to blow some up for my studio (in the making). I am working on doing a blog just for Picture This...but for now it is a mix of my life.

Country Kids

2008-09-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

Well...we survived the harvest. This time of year is always hard for me because Ben works long hours, and we don't get alot of one on one time. On one hand, I am grateful for the farm and the life that it provides for our family, but on the other hand I love when the season is over! Farming is truly a family blessing! Our children get to experience what most kids don't.

Brotherly and Sisterly Love

2008-09-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

At times I wonder if this really exists?? But then I look at pictures that confirm the moments that count. OK...I know there is a law against nudeness and children, but I simply can't resist sharing this picture. This is what happened when Uncle Michael took the camera upstairs to see what the commotion was all about.

Boys and Their Toys

2008-09-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

Ben and I bought the motorcycle 2 years ago and we have since wondered why we did not do it 7 years ago. There is something awesome about the open road! I take that back...I refuse to go on another long ride until we get some more cushion for the behind. I took a 7 hour ride through Yellowstone when I was 5 months pregnant and I truly believe that labor would have felt better! Our next journey is going to be the Grand Canyon in a couple of weeks. We would love some company, so come along!!

Slade Mortensen

2008-09-26T10:34:00.000-07:00

Look at the hair on this little boy. He was one of my first sessions, and he did so good. I always have a hard time chosing favorites, but here are mine.

Paizley Rain Florence

2008-09-26T10:23:00.001-07:00

I did this photo session last night and have so many cute pics to edit. These are a couple of my favorites...beautiful eyes!

Muddin

2008-09-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

Ben, Jesse, and I went to a good ole farm auction...I love them! I know it sounds crazy, but there is something about the environment and feeling in the air. It is just pure country livin! I am so glad that I took my camera as this one was worth the photos!

Class of 98' reunion

2008-09-26T09:53:00.001-07:00

I must first say THANKS to the Whittaker's and Ludlow's planning a fun 10 year class reunion. The food and visits were fun. My waterbugs thoroughly enjoyed the picnic!

Picture This

2008-09-23T20:16:00.001-07:00

As many of you have probably heard, I am starting my own photography business. I have always had a passion for photos, and I love making people feel good about themselves. This is truly and dream of mine, and I can't believe that it is happening. How would you know what you are capable of without taking risks?? Here is my business card front and back. I am soooooo excited!!!!

Rusty Rooster Preschool

2008-09-23T20:10:00.000-07:00

Paige is in her second year at Rusty Rooster Preschool. I honestly can not imagine a better preschool experience. Sharla is amazing with children, and she has helped Paige grow socially. I was so nervous to send her last year, as she is my shy one, but she has far exceeded any expectations that I may have had.

The Girls

2008-09-23T20:01:00.001-07:00

A day with the Williams girls. Don't get to see them much, but we thoroughly enjoy the times together. Not sure how many of you have had the pleasure of knowing NayVee, but the girl is a hoot. I love her vibrant personality. I took these pictures during one of our adventures on the farm. Paige loves her friends!

Mexico

2008-09-23T19:47:00.000-07:00

Every March we head down south to San Felipe. Ben and I have been going for the past eight years. Good times, great fun. As I was laying poolside, I decided to take a picture of my view, not to mention the pedicure I just had. Since the kids came along, I hardly have time to clip my toenails, let alone paint them! The other pictures are some of my favs...my two studs!

Entering the Blog World

2008-09-23T19:39:00.000-07:00

Well I finally took the plunge. I am going to enter the world of bloggers! I'm excited to share the good, the bad, and the ugly! I'll be the first to say...life at the James' can be all of that in one day. I hope I can keep up with all you pros! I decided to play a little catch-up of 2008. Enjoy!