The Van Duren Family

"THE CLIMB"

2009-05-06T18:57:00.000-07:00

I know...some of you may think...really Miley Cyrus....but YES. This song has really touched me. This video clip is more honest than the real music video to me. There is always gonna be another mountain, and obstacles in our path...but if we choose to make the most of each experience we will rise. We are better people by struggling through adversity. Please enjoy! Watch this little clip, and know that the Lord is with you and me. He loves us, and so many beautiful blessings await us on the side, and through our climb.

Love you.
P.S HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM! You inspire me...I love you so so so much! xoxoxo

What I have DONE!

2009-04-01T17:50:00.000-07:00

I've done 43....
What have you done?

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland or Disneyworld
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language pig latin count?!
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Olde Faithful Geyser Erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris (the workers were on strike when we were there and we were unable to go up)
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie or on a TV show
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Had an encounter with a wild animal
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets, or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle 100 mph...crazy boys
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a Jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Taken a martial arts class

There you have it...my 411!

DRUM ROLL PLEASE.......

2009-04-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

I'M PREGNANT!

CELEBRITY APPRENTICE!

2009-03-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

DID YOU WATCH CELEBRITY APPRENTICE LAST NIGHT?

I have been looking forward to watch my company be featured on Celebrity Apprentice for months! Some of the leaders I work with were even shown in the audience last night. I am so excited to share with my friends the new ACN VIDEO PHONE that was featured last night, and launched to the world! Over 24 million viewers. UNBELIEVABLE! The boom is starting to take place, and want to continue helping our friends get a piece of it! AWESOME! If you want to see someone you call...give me a call! It has really helped my family connect all over the USA! This technology is also helping families connect around the WORLD.

Love you all! Seeing really is believing!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2009-02-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Just wanted to send those of you who have anxiously anticipated the arrival of a new post....we love you....and we are doing great! So much love heading your way this weekend! Here is a poem from us to you. XOXO

Roses are Red
Violets are blue
We are so grateful
To have friends like you!

XOXOX~VAN DUREN FAMILY

HO, HO, HO!

2008-11-30T22:58:00.000-08:00

"Thana...Thana...Ho, ho, ho..."

"Where's Thana?"

"Thana thays..ho, ho, ho!"

"Thana in there...wath Thana!"
~Dax

Are you kidding me? Is that not the cutest thing you have ever heard? I mean read? Daxton is really getting into Christmas. We just re-introduced Santa Claus. Daxton has a little lisp. (He is tongue tied.) It is the cutest thing! We have enjoyed reading stories about Santa, and watching our favorite Christmas movies together. He crinkles up his little nose and shouts out, "Thana! Thana!" every time we see a picture of him. THIS IS SO FUN! He knows what's happening this year! Don't you just love Christmas? Hope all of your holidays are bright!

I MISS MY BOYS

2008-11-16T00:33:00.000-08:00

GOOD MORNING! It is about 1:39 a.m. in Colorado Sunday morning the 16Th of November. I have been in Colorado for a week doing business. (I am usually NEVER gone this long.) This is the longest I have ever been away from Daxton, and I am really missing my family. I have been really busy...which is FANTASTIC! BUT, there is "no place like home." I miss my boys.

Without getting all sappy...I looked through our blog. I watched old slide shows. Went through all of our family pictures downloaded to our laptop, and just wanted to share how much I love my family.

My husband is such a wonderful man. He is a giving, understanding, loving, and generous man. He puts others before himself, and freely gives. He is an incredible father...Daxton is completely in love with him, and he is a caring husband.

Daxton is the true love of my life (sorry honey...you are the love of my life too...babies just have an extra special place). He is smart, has great sense of humor, is happy, beautiful, energetic, inquisitive, and completely precious. He brings more joy into my life than I could have possibly imagined. He turned two recently, and I will do belated birthday post, and post halloween/pumpkin pictures.

I still have several more days out here in "Colorful Colorado", and each day I am here I am more thankful for the family I have at home. It is more than perfect timing to celebrate Thanksgiving in just over a week. I will be home just in time to do some laundry, and tidy the house for Thanksgiving. I don't know if I have ever been more thankful for my family, for the gospel, for inspiration, and for the blessings I have been given. I am so thankful Heavenly Father has a plan for me and my family.

Tonight as I type my little post...I just want to send a message to my boys...I miss you, and I love you so much. Keep up the good work at home. I will be back before you know it. Thanks for the video messages, and for playing games over the phone with me. I don't know what I would do if I didn't get to see you, and talk every day I have been here. BIG KISSES & LOVES!

XOXOX
Mommy

Got Cheerios?

2008-10-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

Today is a day of celebration....let me explain. Daxton has had the long road to potty training. Here and there, not completely consistent, but comfortable with his friend Elmo....who awaits his arrival all day everyday. (We have an Elmo potty training seat.) His #2's have been rewarded daily for awhile but #1's (aka-"pee pee")have been struggling to achieve the same success. I was questioning whether or not he was completely ready...until TODAY! My mom reminded me of the infamous "Cheerios" trick. We throw a few cheerios in the potty, and then he shoots them like a squirt gun with his...you know what. I held my breath, unsure of what to expect... when he completely fell into my potty training trick! We have a winner!! He has gone like 12 times this morning and I couldn't be happier. Each successful trip is rewarded with "candy corn." He is lovin' life. No more diapers!!! We might be married to the house for a few more days, but it's worth it. The goal has always been to finish by the time he turns two. Next Friday the 24Th is the deadline, and guess what...we are going to beat it by a week! Thank heavens for "Cheerios"...all mom's who haven't tried this trick yet, "Got Cheerios?"-use them, I believe you will be pleasantly surprised!

The Best Gift

2008-10-09T14:18:00.000-07:00

I vote "Yes" on Proposition 8. Most of us know, their is a major decision left in our hands. Watching "The Best Gift" touched me. My sweet baby will turn two in a couple weeks. He was created in the bonds of marriage, and is sealed to a loving father and mother. The gift of a child is eternal. I believe each child deserves the right to be created in the bonds of marriage. It is Heavenly Father's plan for each child.
1 Corinthians 11:11: "Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord."
Each of us were created to be with a partner, that in the bonds of marriage can use the power of creation. We have been designed by God to bring forth children to this earth. As we make this decision to preserve marriage, it is really about preserving the life of each child. Please watch this video, and share it with everyone you know. Send them to our site or to your own. Post it on your blog, and let's make a difference.

HAPPY 4 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

2008-10-07T00:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary Honey! Can you believe we have been married four years?!? I love you so much. XOXOXO

WE MOVED!

2008-10-03T22:55:00.000-07:00

OK---We moved! YIPEE! We just moved into a beautiful little home...three bedroom, 2 1/2 bath....dark wood floors...not white walls...I'm so happy I don't know what to do with myself. Seriously. Life is great! Sorry no pictures lately, I lost our camera. I'm trying not to be too upset. We will just need to get a new one. Until then, you will just have to deal with pictures from my cell phone...and my little anecdotes.

Daxton and I shopped this week for "big boy pants" (sweet Disney underpants) and we are one step closer to being completely out of diapers (except for bedtime & naps.) I've been grateful for the wood floors..."accidents" are a lot easier to clean up on this floor than it would be with carpet. :) He is doing such a good job. He is turning into such a little man. It is really blowing my mind. He will be turning two in just a few weeks.

Matt and I have recently had a complete para dime-shift. Our life is heading in a much different direction than expected, and it is so AWESOME! I feel happier than I have in a long time. We count our blessings, and I feel like the heavens have been opening up and showering gifts from above. Lately, we have met a lot of wonderful people, and I feel wrapped in Heavenly Father's hands. He is truly taking care of us, and it makes me feel emotional...even just typing about it right now. There are times in life where you know that it is not JUST YOU. I am so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who knows me personally. He knows and loves my family. AND---he knows what our family needs, and has given us a path to take to make all of it happen. Life's blessings don't always come without a little sacrifice. We have been a little busier than usual (hence the not writing as frequently on our blog), and I have had a few more nights away from our baby....but all in all I can't believe what is happening. It's a miracle.

Amidst all the turmoil our economy is in right now, amidst the serious decisions we have to make with congress, and the BIG vote out here in California...the gloom and the doom...there has been light. I know that if we keep our life in line with Heavenly Father's plan we will be taken care of.

Have an amazing weekend...so much love headed your way this evening. Good night. From my family to yours. XOXOX

"Vroom Vroom"

2008-09-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

Dax and Grandma Lindsay walked down the stairs at great Grandma's house the other day and surprising...Dax tooted. He said, "Bum, vroom vroom..." and proceeded to laugh. Grandma started laughing so he shared his story a couple more times.
Who would have known a toot and "vroom vroom" go together? Daxton did! He makes that sound to watch his favorite movie, when he plays with cars...and apparently now when he passes gas! You gotta love it!

NEWS FLASH: "The Explorers"

2008-09-10T14:54:00.000-07:00

Recently, the Van Duren Family has been through Utah, stayed in Colorado...played in airports, random McDonald's, parks, and is preparing for another trip to Michigan tomorrow. If you don't look fast........you might miss them all together! There life has been rockin' and rollin'! Many updates to come. :) They continue exploring all possibilities of life on this planet. They found--life is good. AND---and is getting better every day.

Hey everybody...sorry for the not so updated blog lately. We have been running from one place to the next, and I have made little time to up date you on our life. We are doing great....making things happen, and learning a lot! I will post some pictures from our recent trip to Colorado. Although it might not be for a week...Matt and I are flying out tomorrow to Michigan! I've never been there so it should be a lot of fun. We are excited. Our sweet baby Dax is being watched by Grandma. Thank you MOM! "You're the simply the best!"

Inspired

2008-08-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

Inspired: outstanding or brilliant in a way or to a degree suggestive of divine inspiration

I feel inspired. I see the world around me right now in a whole new light. I have recently been inspired by life. My life. I have been inspired by the lives of those around me. I am amazed by the miracles I've witnessed, and the life that is unfolding before my eyes. I recognize the significant role each of us plays in each others lives. The picture above was apart of our family photo shoot. Alyson caught us in a moment that wasn't planned. She called my name I looked over, and that photo was the result. I think Alyson was inspired, and this photo is so symbolic to me in many ways. I believe much of the time we spend oblivious to those around us. (Daxton didn't even acknowledge my presence in that photo:) As a mother or wife, our lives are completely intertwined with our children, and family. Each action we take to love, and care is not always recognized....but, the presence I believe is felt. I don't think most of us fully understand the impact we have on the people around us. I don't believe I understand. But, I am beginning to realize how important it is to make each moment positive. I feel a sense of responsibility to influence, more than ever, each person I meet for good. I think the more we realize we are not alone, and choose to be happy, we will make a HUGE impact. Recognize your position, and how you change the lives around you. As I have thought about that specifically, I can see how much I affect my loved ones. I want to be a force of powerful positive energy. I believe it is a choice. And, I have made a choice to love more freely, listen more deeply to my family and friends needs, and give of my time and resources to make our lives better. If there is anything I can do for any of you, please let me know. I really mean it! Much love to all...and I will leave a post soon with a lot of cute pics! XOXOXOXO

Mr. Clean

2008-08-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

Hello! We are alive. We have just had a lot of exciting things happening in our world, and haven't made the time to share them all with you yet. ANYWAY, I wanted to share a quick little anecdote: A couple days ago my mom, Dax, and I were in Target. I needed to pick up some cleaning supplies. While I looked carefully at carpet cleaners my mom said,"Look!" When I looked Dax was staring at the bottle of Mr. Clean. He carefully folded his arms together. My mom and I exchanged glances and laughed and laughed. Now, Daxton does fold his arms during prayers, and maybe that's what he thought the man on the bottle was doing. Either way, he was inspired by the bald man on the bottle....and we got a real kick out of him mimicking his pose. Kids are the best!

My Little Song Bird

2008-07-22T22:15:00.000-07:00

Lately, Dax has been singing along to every song he hears. On the way to the zoo yesterday he serenaded us in the car. If I am warming up or singing to something on the radio he joins right in. His technique, although young, is just outstanding! J/K :) I know he will be a star! We play the piano and sing together practically everyday. It's so fun to be able to share something I love so much with him. He makes me laugh! I love being a mother. He is so precious and brings us such joy!

Family Trip to the Zoo!

2008-07-22T22:14:00.000-07:00

We went to the zoo yesterday. It was officially Daxton's first visit. We had such a great time, and Grandma Lindsay enjoyed it with us! That can't be beat!! He loved the giraffes and all the BIG animals. He especially enjoyed the reptile house at the very beginning. He saw a little boy with cotton candy right away, and about had a conniption. Needless to say, after a little talk...he was a good boy and was rewarded with that delicious treat. He pushed the stroller, ran around and had a fantastic time!

Camp Nauvoo

2008-07-22T21:32:00.001-07:00

Friday evening our ward had a camp out at Camp Nauvoo. We enjoyed a chili cook off, cookie competition, and played with the members of our ward. Unfortunately, I only pulled out the camera for the swing and a little baseball. Some of the pictures were just too dark. We had a great time. Matt played baseball with the Ramirez family, and everyone joined in for the water balloon launch. He looked like a little kid playing, and it was really cute. Grandma, Dax and I played on the swings! There was a little program and I sang, "Joseph Smith's First Prayer." It is so special to sing that song up in the woods. I can just imagine the prophet praying and having sermons in the groves near his home in NY and in Nauvoo.

The Amber House

2008-07-14T10:01:00.000-07:00

Matt surprised me Friday evening with a little one on one romantic time. We ate dinner our in Rocklin at this yummy Japanese restaurant. (They cook right in front of you!) It was delicious! Then, he had made reservations at this sweet Bed and Breakfast in Sacramento for the night. "The Amber House," was so much more than I could have anticipated. I have never stayed at a B&B, but it was amazing. We stayed in the "Dickinson" room. The bed in the picture of above was where we slept Friday evening. The room was beautiful! The innkeepers were awesome, and we even had delicious home made cookies waiting for us upon arrival in our room! (If you know me at all...that's all I need to be sold......baked goods!) Matt and I enjoyed each others company in probably the most romantic place I have ever been. Thank you so much honey for making such a memorable get away and for loving me so much!
I don't know about you, but every couple needs a little time away. If you need a little pick me up in your relationship, take my word for it, this will do more for your relationship than you can imagine. There was a journal in our room, and it was filled with the guests experiences who enjoyed an evening in the Dickinson room. We read several journal entries together, and there is a little magic in the Dickinson room. Many couples spent anniversaries, wedding nights, or special get aways. We all have one thing in common...we are all looking to strengthen our relationships. More than ever I have felt the adversary working on each marriage and family. When we take time for each other, we take time to create happy eternal families. Thank you mom for watching Dax. We can't thank you enough.

Sunny Monday!

2008-07-14T09:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunny Monday! Yeah! The Sacramento valley has a perfectly blue sky this morning. (the first time in more than a week...b/c of all of the fires)
What a perfect way to start a wonderful week!

*The sky is blue today!
*My mom is in town...AND....might be moving here!
*Our lease ends in Aug! We will only be in an apartment for another month or so!!!
*Matt and I had an incredible get away this past weekend! (I'll create a separate post.)
*I feel like I have never been so full of hope for the future. Awesome things are happening right now for our family,and I can't wait to share them with all of you. :)

Quote of the week:
"Activity and sadness are incompatible."
- Christian Bovee

Keep active and make this the BEST WEEK EVER!

The Bachelorette Finale

2008-07-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

OK....was everyone else as shocked as I was? I loved Jason and Jesse, but I thought for sure she would have chosen Jason!! Matt was thrilled! He was going for Jesse all along. (Suprise, my husband watches it with me...we only have one TV. He didn't have any other options.:) After almost every finale of The Bachelor or Bachelorette show I am disappointed. AND yet, I continue to watch this rubbish! They never seem to choose the one I wish they would. Still, there is something sweet and magical about watching them fall in love...sometimes it's lust....BUT seeing how those relationships change their lives is so intriguing. Tell me I'm not crazy...and who did you want DeAnna to end up with if you were watching?!?

4Th of July slideshow

2008-07-07T10:47:00.001-07:00

Side note: Daxton swam alone with floaties for the first time on the 4Th of July! YEAH! I hope everyone had a very special day. I'm so proud to be an American!

Happy Monday!

2008-07-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

Highlights:

The 4Th of July was spectacular! I am so proud to be an American! We played in the pool, had a picnic with friends, and set off some sweet fireworks! (AND ATE REALLY DELICIOUS FOOD...ALL DAY!)
I am the new Primary pianist (I play songs during music time for the children at church). We had a terrific first Sunday. Nicole, thanks for making my first week so enjoyable!
I made my first steps recording Thursday night. We are still in progress, but one step closer to recording my song : "Reach Out"
Saturday we had a BBQ at my brother Boyd's up in EDH. We swam and had a wonderful day!
We enjoyed the great company of Amy and Josh Summerhays Sunday evening. Thanks for a yummy dinner! We can't wait to hang out again soon.
Dax and I just finished a snuggle session and read about five or six books. He says when we finish, "Mo Boo." (more books! He loves to read with Mommy and Daddy!)
We are having FHE with our friends Marc, Stacy, and Tana tonight!! FUN FUN!
We continue to reach for our dreams and are making each day count! Have a wonderful week.

Quote of the week:

"Dreams come true; without that possibility, nature would not incite us to have them."
- John Updike

Forgot One...The Happy Couple

2008-07-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorites of us. I forgot to post it with the other pictures.

Family Photos!! Yeah!

2008-07-03T17:23:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to see these today on Alyson's site! What a fun evening. I know the boys were dying of heat...it was like 99 degrees outside and I had them all dressed up! Thank you Daddy and Dax for being such good sports! Love you!

Check out Alyson's site...she is so talented!

www.alysonkayphotography.blogspot.com

Wizards and Potions

2008-07-02T13:18:00.000-07:00

We went to a super fun birthday celebration last Saturday. Bella threw a wizards and potions party. It was a blast. Dax and I made his little wizard hat and Daddy made his wand. Then, our potion master (aka Bryan) helped each wizard make potions. They chose between the gift of dance, or to sing like Ariel. They ate it up! Great party guys! Thanks for inviting us. :)

Bowling 101 Slideshow

2008-07-02T11:51:00.001-07:00

Bowling 101

2008-07-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

Matt and I went on a double date last Friday night with our friends Bryan and Melanie. We ate dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, delicious, and enjoyed a sweet night of bowling. We found that it truly is a game of luck. The first game Matt and Melanie had a resounding lead over Bryan and me. The second game, on the other hand, tables turned and Bryan won. His score trumped mine by only one pin, and Matt and Melanie weren't even close to us. We all played very differently and had our little querks. Matt: puts and "English" curve on the ball. Melanie: straight and center. Bryan: threw down on bended knee (like he was being knighted:). Jessica (me): I always slide my right leg under my left, and after my release-leave without watching my ball go down the lane! (Bad Luck!?!?) The slide show gives you the flavor of our evening. We had a great time! Thanks guys!

Happy Monday...a few hours late!

2008-07-01T08:55:00.001-07:00

Happy Monday/Tuesday. Woo...I need to get better at this. I've only just begun.

We are all healthy!
We are all happy!
Daxton has been telling me regularly "I poo poo/I went poo poo" (YIPPEE!)
Sunday was beautiful!
Matt and I went on a date Friday with our friends! Bowling pictures to come soon!
The dishes are done. (right now)
The 4Th of July is Friday (Matt's favorite holiday)

Hope you all have a wonderful week. Here is a quote for the week:

"Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do."
- John Wooden

Handsome Little Man

2008-06-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

We had a family photo shoot a little over a week ago. I just checked Alyson's sight and this precious picture was there. Isn't is beautiful? He is so handsome, and she has a gift. Thank you Alyson...I can't wait to see all of them. More to come soon!

I love it!

Smiley

2008-06-26T22:29:00.000-07:00

Daxton's smile brightens every day!

I love my smiley little man. I am the luckiest Mom in the world! He makes me laugh and keeps me on my toes. Dax is growing so fast, and I never want to forget the simple sweet moments we share. Every day & every smile counts. Kiss your babies and enjoy a simple gift given to you today...their innocent and precious smiles.

Need I say more?

2008-06-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

Need I say more?
Don't we all have days where we feel like this? I am just grateful that most days I wake up and this isn't the look on my face. (It's usually not on Daxton's face either...it just made me laugh the other morning.) For all of you who have experienced a day like this week...hang in there! I too have had a similar one and bounced back. Take care of yourself. Enjoy a yummy treat. (It works for me!) It's OK not to be perfectly happy and energized every second of every day. We just have to choose to recover quickly. (Whatever quickly means to you:) Life is too short to feel this way too long. Just remember, you are not alone! Sunny days await you.

Happy Monday!

2008-06-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday everybody! Mondays should start out positive so the rest of the week runs smoothly. Ya know!?! I will be starting a new edition to our blog...entitled "Happy Monday." It will consist of positive reflections of the past week and exciting news for the coming week!

My Birthday was AMAZING! I was pampered and loved by my husband (breakfast & books & a gift card. WOW) and my friends: (Jenn-sweet package and a call, Kim-text, Mel-warm cookies (there is nothing better to me than a warm cookie), gift card, lunch, pedicures (sheesh!...I know...way too much), Kalli-an awesome card and yummy body wash, Stacy-lunch with the ladies, a thoughtful card and music staff paper and lyrics book, Court-a sweet card, My YW-a card and cookies, other friends-AND lot's of other sweet notes on the blog! thank you :) I went to the salon and had my hair done. (Isn't that the best. Read magazines...have your hair played with and messaged when washed!) I recieved a card from Preston, Terri, & Kellen--LOVED IT! I talked to my mom, and my brother Cameron called to wish me a happy birthday, and a call from my TWIN Ross. Am I blessed or what? Am I bragging???...maybe a little...I just want you to know that my family and friends are so wonderful. Thank you for all you do for me. I couldn't feel any more special. I love you so much! (Sorry for that laundry list...there was a lot to say!)
I went shopping Saturday with my family (as part of my b-day), and had dinner with our friends.
Sunday, I sang in church "I Stand All Amazed." I love singing in church. The spirit envelopes me and it is such a gift. I'm grateful I have something to share.
Today, I showered and was dressed and ready by 11:00 a.m.! (Sounds silly, but it's a difficult task in my house. :)
Bella's birthday is today. (Bella G.) Happy Birthday! We played at McDonald's play place and ate delicious sundaes.
Tuesday, I have a call with my buddies from "Advanced!" I miss you all. Keep reaching for your goals! You're all doing great!
We have a birthday party Saturday.
The temp is only 84 degrees right now in Folsom. SO NICE!
My songs are about ready to record and my goals will be closer to completion. Hooray!
Pool Days----there will be many this week! Dax and I love swimming together.

I hope each of you have a very "Happy Monday" and a wonderful week! Please feel free to add this tradition to your blog. If you need a weekly positive kick, I encourage you to join in. I can't wait to read your "Happy Monday" blog entries too!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY "ROSSICA!"

2008-06-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Ross!

My twin brother and I turn 25 today! Can't you tell we're twins from our pictures? Our family, at times, referred to us as "Rossica." The obvious merge of Ross and Jessica! :)

Ross, can you believe we are officially 25 years old! WOW! I have said for many years, "I was too afraid to come to earth alone so you volunteered to come with me." I am so grateful that you did! You have always been a strength and a support to me. I miss our birthday mornings. I woke up early and played my "Happy Birthday to Jessica" tape (rap version...go 90's!), and then we would each open our presents one at a time. (Except for the year mom let you open yours ten minutes early...because you were born ten minutes before me!) We would eat our yummy hot breakfast and then both have our own cakes to share with the family. You always had mint chocolate chip ice cream cake and I always had angel food cake with strawberries and whipped cream. Delicious! My mouth waters when I think of it! We have so many wonderful memories and I look forward to making our next 25 years even better than the first 25! Thank you for being who you are, and for being my longest running best friend. (I don't think anyone will ever top it....they can't.......we've always been together!) Rossy Possy....we have officially grown up! I love you so much! I hope you have an amazing birthday. Just know you are with me today. I am thinking of you and wishing we were playing together!

"Ni-How" (pronounced: knee-how)

2008-06-17T13:53:00.000-07:00

Daxton has been saying, "Ni-How" for at least a couple months now. We could not figure out what it meant. We would copy him regularly and pretend like he knew Chinese. We asked friends and family members if they could translate it, but we all just laughed it off. My sister in law told me "Ni-How" means "Hello" in Chinese. Impressive...he speaks a second language.:) J/K

While Matt and I were gone my mom watched Dax a couple of weeks ago. Amazingly, she broke the code. Drum roll please.........."Need Help." She said as soon as we were gone and he used it (because he does regularly) she knew exactly what it meant.

When we returned home, one morning he was sitting on the potty he looked up at Grandma and said, "I Ni-Yo-How." (aka "I need your help.") I wasn't helping him get off the potty because I knew he wasn't done. He knew Grandma spoke his language and called for some assistance. He is putting words together frequently and it is incredible. He picks up new words so quickly now. They may not be recognizable at first, but he is talking to us and it is so fun.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day Matt!

We love you very much. You are such an amazing Dad. We will be eternally grateful for you. Your sincerity, love, humility, and humor have made you an incredible companion and an outstanding father. Thank for setting a great example for both of us.

Hugs 'n Kisses... XOXOXOXOXO

Love You~Sugga Momma and Dax

P.S. Happy Father's Day to our Dads(Aaron Van Duren, and Rick Lindsay)/Opa and Grandpa Hardy. We love you! Thank you for teaching us so much. We celebrate you today too!

Summer Lovin'

2008-06-11T15:48:00.000-07:00

I love the warmth of the summer. We enjoy playing outside and taking dips in the pool. Today "pool day," with our ward, for the first time this summer was at our apartment. Daxton loved playing with all the kids....stealing their food (as scene in the picture below), and kissing Gracie.

There is nothing better than a little summer lovin'!

I hope everyone enjoyed the day. We sure did. Mommies, keep your eyes open. You will never know if Daxton has found your food or is stealing a kiss from one of your little girls! :)

"Watch this!"

2008-06-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, out of no where, Dax was jumping on our bed and he said, "Momma, watch this!" He has never said either of those two words. I was totally suprised. Super cute! He jumped as high and as fast as he could and then fell down "timber" style. (aka-like a tree falling) He did it over and over. I was cracking up! When Matt returned home from work, I ran to get my camera so I could share it with him and you. Enjoy!

Ice Cream & Missionaries

2008-06-11T15:20:00.000-07:00

We had the Folsom 5Th ward missionaries over for dinner and dessert Monday evening. Daxton enjoys putting on shows for our guests so he loved it.

He joined them on the couch for an after dinner drumstick.

"Num, num...," Dax said!

One of Matt's favorite quotes is: "Go Big, or Go HOME." I believe Dax would say, "Go Messy, or Go HOME!" It always taste better when your whole face enjoys the treat!

Golfing...Glow Golfing

2008-06-10T09:56:00.001-07:00

Friday night we went out with the Rogers Family! (Marc, Stacy, and miss Tana Belle) We played "Monster Golf." We ate some yummy food before hand and had an evening of fun. What more could we ask for? Matt brought his own putter and the rest of used glow in the dark putters. They even had these special little plastic ones for the babies! Super cool!
Thanks for such a fun night guys! We love ya!

And thanks for the pictures Stacy! You are awesome!

ROCK ON.......ROCK BAND!

2008-06-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

Rock on....You need to check out my friends Melanie and Bryan Gibson's blog. They just posted about our stellar band "Adolf Schatz." There are some outrageous band photos. I got a real "kick" out it. We play together frequently and have some killer jam sessions. Read her post and see Matt in his "power stance." It will BLOW YOUR MIND!

http://bryanandmelanie.blogspot.com/

Reach for your DREAMS!

2008-06-02T21:56:00.001-07:00

Matt and I just returned home from "Advanced Leadership" training in San Francisco, CA. It was nothing less than completely amazing. We are empowered and ready to take on the world. We can have anything we want....and we are going to go get it!

It's time for us to take steps toward our goals and dreams. I encourage everyone who wants to live a better life to go to these classes. Anyone who thinks they've got it all together....YOU need it even more than the rest of us who know we need to make some changes!

We reached for our dreams this week and found out that they are within our grasp. Face your fears. Take on your life and leap into your greatness.

American Idol Finale

2008-05-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

American Idol had another great match up last night. David vs David...and if I may second Simon in saying, "Knock Out!" David Archuleta sang for his life and had an incredible night. Way to go! His performance last night of "Imagine" reminded me why he touched my heart from the beginning. He sings with his soul...the way I like to sing, and the way music speaks to me. Everyone watch the finale tonight!

I am sure it's going to be awesome!

"I Love to See the Temple"

2008-05-18T14:44:00.000-07:00

"I Love to See the Temple." I love that primary song, and I love each time I am able to go to the House of the Lord. I taught a lesson today about the temple endowment in YW and I my testimony is strengthened. We are so blessed to have the truth. What a gift to have a place we can go to feel renewed and find peace in such a hectic world. I'm grateful to live near such a beautiful temple. Please enjoy the picture and may it's sacred beauty help you find a little peace today.

Sacramento Temple

2008-05-17T21:56:00.001-07:00

Disneyland May 2008

2008-05-11T12:33:00.000-07:00

We just returned from the land where "All your dreams come true." Believe me...they do! We had a wonderful time with our family and friends! Thanks for such a great time guys. We love you. We ate great food and played until we were exhausted every night of the week. On Monday we watched the "Parade of Dreams." I had never seen it from beginning to end and I was totally emotional.....it sounds ridiculous....but that's how magical it is. I love Disneyland. We all loved Disneyland.....Here is a slide show...hopefully you can capture the magic. ENJOY!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day all you Mommies! I love Mother's Day and I have since I was a little girl. Mom's deserve at least one day a year to have recognition and some extra LOVE. I celebrate my mother, my grandmother, my mother-in -law, and all other special mothers in my life. Thank you. Thank all of you so much for everything you have done to contribute to the mother I am today, and for the person I have become.

I recorded a song for my mothers entitled "She". (written by Cherie Call) The lyrics speak to me. The world has such a different perspective on what women should be. As mothers, our sacrifice can be great at times and this song recognizes those moments that every mother experiences raising a child. It is such a special calling.

I want my mother in law to know...I love you. Thank you for raising a son worthy to take me to the temple. Thank you for teaching him to love me the way he does. You have given me an eternal family. You taught him to respect women and honor mothers. He is an amazing father and I attribute his amazing attributes to you. Thank you for being the mother of my husband and best friend.

I want my mom to know......I recognize you. I recognize each late night you rocked me as a baby. I recognize the sacrifice of your body and time for years. I recognize you shed tears for me, gave council, support, and love. I recognize each time you spent with me at sporting events, sewing costumes for my plays, and then attending every show. Thank you for each and every day of my life. It wouldn't be the same without you. I love you and thank you for all that you have been for me and continue to give me everyday.

P.S. I don't know how to attach "She" so if any of you want to hear it...let me know and I'll email it to you.

"Fluffing"

2008-04-29T21:20:00.000-07:00

Our "Fat Sak" needed to be washed. Matt "de-fluffed" our bag and Dax loved playing in it.

This give you an idea how much there was....last time we cleaned the bag the fluff filled 6 black trash bags! YIKES!

Matt jumped in with him. So much fun! :)

Happy Monday

2008-04-28T21:02:00.001-07:00

Happy Monday....I just wanted to leave you a quick comment on our "special" events Sunday. I hope you enjoyed our little video. Daxton had a wonderful time in the nursery. He is such a big boy. Sister Stoffard was so sweet to grab Dax on his way in. Several children around him were screaming. He has a funny look on his face in the picture because he was wondering why everyone was crying. Daxton was pointing at the kids crying.

I can just imagine him thinking...

"Why is everyone upset? We are in a room full of toys."

I am grateful he had a smooth transition. (I knew he would be fine) I only peeked in once. As for the events following...poor baby...I was putting him through pictures...and we had an owee! Thank goodness it wasn't anything serious.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

Love, Jess

TAG

2008-04-24T20:31:00.000-07:00

Cheers---to being tagged and never responding. Sorry all of you who have tagged me without a response....So...here goes.

1.How did you meet your spouse? Church, July '03. There was magic in the air...it scared me!
2. Who eats more sweets? ME---without a doubt. I made cookies for dinner tonight! yummy
3. Who said I love you first? Matt...I responded quickly though.
4. How old is he? 27---end of May.
5.Who is taller? Matt
6. Who is smarter? Matt....but I'm no dumby
7. Who can sing better? I am the singer in the fam...but we enjoy singing together. Thanks Matt.
8. Who does the laundry? ME---three loads today!
9. Who pays the bills? Matt...I thought if he saw the bills he would be empowered to bring home more money! :)
10. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? I do.
11. Who mows the lawn? No lawn...but if we did...I think Matt would. He enjoys working in a yard.
12. Who cooks dinner? We both do...I told him tonight, "I'm a baker...not a chef!" (hence the cookies for supper)
13. Who drives? We switch off around town. Road trips-Matt. He gets car sick.
14. Who is more stubborn? Me...it kills me to admit that.
15. Who kissed who first? We kissed each other. I made him wait a while. It was totally amazing.
16. Who asked who out? His sister told me he was interested :)...he was nervous. I told her to tell him to "Stop being a weeny." He asked me out soon after.
17. Who is more sensitive? I am.
18. Who has more siblings? He does...three brothers & three sisters. (he's 2ND oldest)
19. Who wears the pants? I think he is in one leg...I am in the other. It's only tricky when we want to walk in different directions. :)

OK----Stacy, Jenn, and anyone else who wants to be tagged------YOU'RE IT.

Hair Cuts

2008-04-24T19:50:00.000-07:00

Those of you with little men....are you constantly needing to cut their hair? Daxton was obviously blessed with a head full of hair...which I love...but....I feel like his hair needs to be trimmed constantly. It reminds me of trimming nails....kids nails grow so fast and it's like pulling teeth getting the job done. Every mother understands this!

This picture was taken awhile ago (Dec. '07), but this is what happens in our house at least...every four-six weeks...I put it off as long as possible. I was looking through our photos, and this was another reminder that Daxton's hair is way past due.

Keep up the cutting of hair and nails...it's every mother's dream.....kids love it...and so do we! :)

To Train or Not to Train...That is the question?

2008-04-21T14:56:00.000-07:00

Daxton's first experience on the "potty."

"Cheese!" He says cheese...and that is his "cheese" smile! You love it...don't ya?

Doesn't his cheesy smile remind you of Daddy's? (in the pic above:)

Daxton said "pee pee" the other day, and my mom said as soon as he knows what "that" is...the count down is on for potty training. He will be eighteen months this week. I know that is young, BUT my old hair stylist starting working with her boy at 20 months and he was potty trained before his second birthday! If anyone has information to share on this subject...please feel free to let me know.

Daxton and I shared our last Sunday together in the hall. Next week will be he first week in nursery. I will let y'all know how that goes. I think he will love it.

Hope you enjoy the potty pics...they crack me up!

90 DAY GOALS!

2008-04-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

ALRIGHT.....all of you bloggers....I need your support. I have set two very important 90 day goals. As I said in my last blog, I recently attended "Personal Mastery" and it has motivated me to create new momentum in my life. I have always had dreams. I am ready to fulfill my potential. Today is a new day, and I am ready to do this.

Goal #1: I will write and record at least two original songs by June 19th. (my b-day)

Goal #2: I want twelve business partners in the "I CAN" program by April 2009. (In 90 days I want three business partners.)

I would love for you to be my business partner.

"The "I CAN" system is a solution for financial freedom, and a better quality of life. I can support you to gain better health and more wealth. "I CAN" means I can and YOU can too. WE CAN do this together."

-Jessica Van Duren (Quote from my website)

I know that most families could use a little extra income. Whether you are saving for a down payment on a home, paying off student debt, want to go on more vacations with your family, or you have a special family need---THIS system is designed to accomplish that. I want to help my family and yours make $2,000-6,000 a month working 6-10 hours a week for one year. Please contact me through my site...

http://www.icantoo.net/vanduren

Click on and watch "SO WHAT IS I CAN?" --It is an orange box on the home page---next to the star fish. It's a quick video that explains it better than I can on a blog.

WE CAN DO THIS TOGETHER....CONTACT ME SOON!

Love,
Jessica

POOL DAYS

2008-04-16T10:34:00.000-07:00

Grandma Lindsay and Dax
Daxton & Mommy

(noodle seat......our float device for him at Grandma's Pool)

Daxton loves to splash in the pool.

"All done Mommy."
(if you have a better quote for this picture....please let me know!)

Daxton and I returned home a week ago with a similar flight experience as the week before. Needless to say, we are grateful to be home.
We had a wonderful time in Mesa with my mom. The weather was beautiful and we had several days of fun in the sun with her. Daxton loves to swim and I enjoyed relaxing in the orange blossom scented Arizona outdoors.
Uncle Boyd, aunt Brittany, and Daddy all flew in Friday the 4th to go to a seminar called "Personal Mastery." (by Klemmer and Associates) It was a one night and two days course. They all flew back Monday. (with no delays I might add :) Seriously, everyone reading this blog if you haven't heard of this or experienced it, YOU NEED TO GO! It was life changing. We are going to a follow up course in San Fran at the end of May.
If you want any information please let me know. It will change your life.
I have made a couple of exciting goals...stay tuned...I will have more information on that soon. AND, who knows...maybe you will be involved.

Love,
Jess

We NEED Each Other

2008-04-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone....

Today I would like to reflect upon yesterdays travels if I could for a moment. Bright and early...well maybe not so bright or early...but yesterday morning :) Matt dropped Dax and I off at the airport at approximately 10:00 a.m. Our flight with United Airlines departure time was 12:02 p.m. and we wanted plenty of time to get through security. Our arrival time in sunny Phoenix, AZ was to be at 3:15 p.m. As luck would have it...first our flight was delayed with mechanical problems...and then completely CANCELLED! Luckily some very kind people helped me with my bags that I later had to re-check to another airline. I ONLY brought one HUGE suitcase, a porta-crib, and a car seat....not to mention the stroller and a diaper bag which was already with me in the terminal. (I know....traveling with kids requires quite a lot of equipment.)

So, needless to say I did make it to Arizona. I just transferred airlines and waited in terminal A for SIX hours. I had the privilege to go through security twice yesterday, check my bags twice, and as luck would have it AGAIN---I was picked for the "SSS", translation for all you who are not TSA's, I was randomly chosen for the special screening. Yes, I was pat down...bags checked thoroughly for bomb paraphernalia and was later cleared.

Daxton spilled our water bottle all over his pants. Of course, I had forgotten to pack extra clothes, so I had a pant less baby during our entire delay. His little brown pants hung over the stroller as we walked through the airport terminal. I have to admit, he looked pretty cute with his long-sleeved shirt, onesie, nakey legs, and little Converse high tops.

Luckily, in the midst of the chaos of yesterday I had the time to enjoy good people around me. People are good. If they can help, they do. If they have had similar stories with their own children, they share and reminisce with you. Daddies in the airport showed us pictures of their children they were flying home to and talked and played with Dax. A sweet woman and her daughter who were supposed to be on the same cancelled flight watched Dax for a moment so I could run to the bathroom. The manager of a Chinese restaurant allowed me to switch my Free soda (with my rice bowl meal) to a water for no extra charge. :) I sat next to a wonderful mother and daughter on our flight, and they played with Daxton, helped clean up spilled apple juice, lifted him in the air to play with the air vent and lights, and loved every minute of it. The people of this world have compassion. It inspires me to want to be that extra pair of hands for others. I always say, "We were not sent to this world alone for a reason." We NEED each other to make our lives better and little easier.

Flight 277 arrived safely at Sky Harbor Airport (Phoenix, AZ) at approximately 6:20 p.m. We loaded up our luggage into Grandma's vehicle and made it without much damage to her home at a little past seven. Daxton and I will return home on the 9th hopefully without too much delay. But, for all you travelers out there I say, "Good luck on your next journey, and may your next flight be without delay and may you have safe arrivals."

REDWOOD FOREST---WOW!

2008-03-31T09:57:00.000-07:00

Right to Left (Justin, Michael & Kim, Jessica, & Daxton)

Spring Break was full of fun. Our friends Kim, Justin and Michael Bowles came out to visit from Utah. We traveled north to play in the Redwoods for a couple days. On the way we stopped at "Confusion Hill". Lot's of fun!! This was our group photo after we went through the "course" for the lack of a better word. :)

We tried to drive the car through...our SUV is a little too big...but it was amazing to see these enormous trees up close. SO COOL.
Kim, Michael, Jessica, & Dax
(Our babies are five days apart....we totally planned it!)
We were in the "Avenue of the Giants"

Can you say "tree huggers"?

Unfortunately we had to make this trek without Matt. We missed him desperately but we made the most out our trip. It was so fun to play with out friends. Thanks for coming out Kim and Justin!

Easter Bunny

2008-03-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

Our little BUNNY!

We had Lot's of fun with our friends and family on Easter!

We had such a ball this Easter. We looked for eggs and obviously dressed him up. I love holidays...that's no secret...AND I love to dress up Dax. Thankfully, he still loves me and doesn't put up a fight. Don't you think he is the sweetest little bunny you have ever seen?

Besides the whole "bunny" side Easter, the celebration of our Savior's Resurrection was very special. It just seems like on special Sundays (such as Easter or Christmas) that there is an added measure of the spirit in our meetings. I had the opportunity to sing "I Have Not Seen, Yet I Believe" written by the infamous Sally DeFord. It is a beautiful song and the spirit was so strong. The whole sacrament meeting was beautiful and I had multiple confirmations throughout that our Savior Lives. He absolutely LIVES! I have had a testimony of this for a long time but I am so grateful Heavenly Father through the Holy Ghost witnessed to be once again that the Savior's Life, his ministry, and his resurrection are real.

P.S Happy Birthday Brittany! We love you. Thanks for letting us share a piece of your special day. XOXO

CONGRATULATIONS!

2008-03-26T11:44:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Ross and Elyssa. Thank you for allowing us to be apart of your special day. We love you.

Mr and Mrs Ross Lindsay were sealed in the Mesa, Az Temple March 15th 2008.

Sealed for Time and All Eternity.

Dax wore this darling suit. My friend Melanie and I put together his little pink tie. The colors for the wedding were pink and brown. He looked SO handsome.

I know you probably thought I had given up on blogging all together.....psych out! I am back and ready to catch you up on our life! Many more up dates to come.

ONE BUSY WEEK!

2007-11-08T09:06:00.000-08:00

Alright...there is no rhyme or reason to this eclectic array of pictures...I just decided you would like to see all of these. (I didn't want a different post for each event....it would have made more sense though:)

Daxton put my head band on! (ALL BY HIMSELF) He loved it. He wore it around for at least a half an hour. The song "Clap you Hands for Spider man" played in the background while he walked around clapping with his head band on. It was hilarious!

He makes every day fun and new. I am so blessed to be his mommy!

Good afternoon! Shortly after Daxton woke up from his nap Monday afternoon, my friend Kalli and I took our babies to the park. He was so mellow the whole time...but we got some darling pictures!

Kalli and Neveah...I showed her this cute picture right after I took it.

This was definately a Kodak moment.

Saturday morning (the fourth of November) my cousins--Emily, Lindsay, and my aunt Kate (right to left) were traveling home to Nashville. They are the group "Lucy Angel" and had a show out here Friday night! Go GIRLS! They flew home Saturday. We caught up with them before their flight home and had a great breakfast at Mimi's Cafe. Thanks guys! It was so great to see you.

Oma and Daxton--We dropped my mother in law off in Oakland...we decided to take her to San Fransisco first. We had such a wonderful time. Thank you for coming out. We love you.

Daxton played in the grass just off the shore of San Fransisco.

Daddy walked him around the grassy park...hopefully getting some energy out before the car ride home!

Ok...I promise...these are the last photos of Halloween! So--ENJOY!

I love dressing up...so I decided I would be a witch! No, I didn't cut my hair...it's a wig! (fun!)

Halloween night! Braeton-train conductor-Ashton-Woody, Eden-Jesse, Christian-storm trooper, Michael-monkey, Dax-bat! We walked around Boyd and Brittany's neighborhood. It was so much fun.

Daxton and Montana have such a sweet relationship. They really do love each other. Look how they interact! "love is in the air..."

(This was at his b-day party...after his bath--he wore a diaper for the rest of the party! :)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2007-10-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! I hope all of you have a very enjoyable Halloween!

This picture was taken Saturday the 27th right before guests came to Daxton's Birthday party...

Bats are Black

Monsters are Blue

We're throwing a party

We'de like you to come too.

Daxton's Birthday will be fun for all

Wear your costumes and have a ball!

The kids did wear their costumes and boy was it fun!

I was putting together some final touches on the porch. Daxton wanted to come out and help.

Needless to say, he wasn't to happy he was left inside. :)
He looked so cute in his bat costume.

I think Dax really enjoyed wearing his little bat costume...he will be wearing it again tonight! Halloween is so fun. His party was a blast! All of the kids looked so cute in their costumes. :)
Christian was a storm trooper.
Andalynn was obviously a cheerleader. So CUTE!

Christian, Dax, Montana, Andalynn, and Ashton. Braeton and Neveah were not in the picture.
Montana was Lady --from "Lady in the Tramp"
Ashton was "Woody"--from "Toy Story" Ashton has always loved Dax. You can tell they are buddies. I love these boys so much! They are lucky to have eachother.

Daxton loved his birthday party cake. It was a bat...he was sweet enough to share with Daddy.
I loved this. His eyes are totally communicating with Daddy...maybe saying, "Do you want some more?"
I love this photo. We had to throw him in the tub after he finished his cake. The bath tub was a mess. Everyone at the party just hung out while we cleaned Daxton up.

DAXTON IS ONE!!!

2007-10-30T15:14:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it......Daxton turned one. I thought it would be fun to share some b-day photos. This is obviously the after math of his yummy cup cake~ This is a little out of order. BUT CUTE! He devoured the whole cupcake! We put him in the bath shortly after this photo and he even had cupcake inside of his diaper...WOW. When Daxton woke up we had his presents on the coffee table. He noticed them from across the room and Oma (Matt's mom) said his face lit up (I was in the kitchen) and he crawled quickly to the table. He was excited!

He loved all of his gifts....especially his gift from Oma and Opa this train. It sings and he loves it!

Big Hit! Way to go! He recieved b-day calls first from Grandma Lindsay, then Uncle Ross, Preston and Aunt Terri Ann and cousin Kellen. They all sang to him. He listened intently to the song. He giggled and loved every minute of it. Thanks for being so sweet and calling and singing to him. We love you! He got birthday messages from aunt Stacy :) and Kim. We are so lucky have our family!

I made cupcakes for him....and decided since it was his birthday that he could have whatever he wanted. He loved the cake batter...he had candy he had never tasted. By bed time, I think his tummy was a little upset. I don't think he regreted his treats though. :)
Happy Birthday to you....Mommy helped blow out the candles.
He knew just what to do with it. It was gone in a matter of minutes!
It was such a special day. Oma came out to spend the big day with us and to her suprise...and ours...he said "Oma" on his birthday! How special is that!

His little vocabulary has grown so much in the past two weeks...probably six new words. (Oma, Wooo, Wow, Down, Yea, Ball, He-Go (aka-Here you go). He has said...nininini...at bed time for a while...but two nights ago after we finished his bed time "milk-milk--"he said,"Ni-Ni," then leaned back and closed his eyes. Matt and I looked at eachother and just were in awe. He said Night Night and then went to sleep. What a cracked up.

He is really communicating and it is WILD. Daxton came up to Matt's his knees with a car in his hand making the bmmmmmmm..(car sound). Matt said, "Dax, you want to play cars?" Daxton said, "Yea." Hello....my baby is talking to us and is officially a todder....oh and he is WALKING! He hasn't mastered it, but he gets up and walks as far as he can and then will crawl the rest of the way.

He signs "more" and "all done" now too. He clapped on the way home from he airport Sunday...crazy...can you imagine what he will be doing in two more weeks!

So..."He-Go"! I will post some b-day party pictures later today or tommorow! :)

HAPPY HARVEST

2007-10-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

Daxton sat perfectley still and posed for my sister in law Kari while

she took some pumpkin patch pictures! :) He was looking up at me. I really should have crouched down!
You want to know a secret...we are not really at a pumpkin patch.

We arranged the hay bales and pumkins outside an Albertson's grogery store

in St. George, Ut. Tricky, huh? You guys should take your kids down and take some pictures!

I loved this picture. He was laughing so hard and we caught him with his mouth open!

He cracks me up. He turns one next week. His little personality is changing and growing with him and I am loving it!

I hope everyone is enjoying the fall season. I love to see the color of the leaves change and fall and enjoy the cool breeze that comes with it. This is a special time of year. I have always loved it and I love it more every year....now especially because it is when we had our baby.

OUR ETERNAL FAMILY

2007-09-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

Our sister Terri Ann took some pictures of us on the

Sacramento temple grounds a few weeks ago.

These were some of our favorites.
Daxton was tired and not feeling very well during the photos so there weren't many smiling faces. He is usually a smiley guy. Nonetheless, he is still super cute! :)

He is crawling all over the place. I think he will be walking soon.

I was looking at old baby photos of him today and once again realized how quickly time is passing. I can't believe it. I love that I am home and am able to watch his progression throught this crazy world. He is brilliant and I am so glad we have him in our family.

I hope these pictures make you think of you own families. I am so grateful to the gospel. We are so lucky to know what we know, and to have temples where our families can be sealed for all eternity.

We love you all. We are back in busines. You will be seeing much more of us.

Love you all,

Jessica, Matt, and Daxton

DAXTON'S FIRST TRIP TO THE BEACH

2007-09-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

These pictures were from May...we will post some new pictures shortly.

Jessica, Dax, and Matt on Memorial Day at a beach in Carlsbad, CA.Daddy and Dax...there are so handsom.
He always smiles for the camera. (well he did then) He is such a happy baby.
Dax loved the sand between his toes. He loved the water too! :)

WE'RE BACK!

2007-09-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

WOW. It has been since the beginning of June that we have had an entry. SORRY! We have officially been living in Folsom, CA for three months. Exciting. Life is good.

So much has happened since then it is hard to know where to begin.

Preston, Terri, and Kellen came out from Rexburg a couple weeks ago! We had such a blast. We all traveled out to San Francisco to pick mom up from the airport and we had a great weekend. Thank goodness for family. I don't know where I would be without them. I loved watching the little boys play together. They are so cute. Kellen cracks me up. He has so much energy and he is smart. That can be one heck of a combination. I love him. I am so glad Dax has a cousin that is only five weeks older than him. They are going to be best buds growing up! They really like each other too! They were constantly playing with each other and passing their pacifiers back and forth...you should have seen it, hilarious.

Having my mom and family out here was definately a highlight of the summer. I miss my mom. I have no shame saying that either. I have realized since becoming officially and adult and now a mother...that I am so grateful for my mom. Moms sacrifice so much for their family, continually give their love, support, help, and strength to their families. My mom, in my opinion, is the best mom ever! Her example is priceless to me. I am grateful for all of the things she has taught me and continues to teach me. (my humble tribute to her) :)

Matt is doing well at his new job. He is working at Master's Team Mortgage. He really enjoys the people with whom he is associated with. He is finding his place out here, making goals, and trying hard to fulfill his dreams and aspirations for him and our family. I am grateful to have a husband who truly loves his family so much. He is such a great husband and dad. I "blessed" out!

Dax is just growing like crazy! I can't believe the last pictures posted were when he was seven months old. He is almost 10 1/2 months old now. Time is flying! I look at him every day and try to savor each moment with him. I can't believe he is mine. I love him so much. I love being a mom. He was sick last week with one wicked fever (well about 52 hours up and down). It was awful. He was miserable and it was so hard to watch him fight that bug. I am so grateful that he is well now. Hallelujia!

As for me, I am loving our new ward. I am in the YW as the Laurel advisor again. (this is the same calling in three wards) Pretty crazy, huh?!? I love it. I love the girls and the women I am serving with are awesome. I feel so so so blessed. I am also over personal progress and that is keeping me on my toes. If anyone has good advice how to get them motivated or inspired to finish and make it apart of their life----please don't hesitate to pass that information along. :)

I went to the Dentist last week.....I haven't been in four years....bad news....I have an abcess wisdom tooth. Yikes! I will be having oral surgery within the next 2 months or so. I am not thrilled. I knew that I should have had my wisdom teeth pulled when I was eighteen. I am definately kicking myself now.

Well.....I guess that is all for now. We will keep you posted on the latest and greatest new of our family. Pictures to follow soon! :)

Love, Jess (and family:)

DISNEYLAND May 25th 2007

2007-06-05T03:19:00.001-07:00

Yeah....The Van Duren Family has made it to Disneyland. We are standing in front of the famous castle. This was Matt and Daxton's first visit to Disneyland. We all had such a wonderful time. We went with our friends Marc, Stacy, and Montana (she is about the same age as Dax) We had a wonderful time and can't wait to go back! Anyone up for another trip anytime soon? Let us know!

Daxton was so amused by Mickey. I think every photo we took of him he was smiling...except for with Mickey. He just wanted to touch him. I thought it was so so so cute!
Mommy, Dax, Mary Poppins, Bert

We ran into to them right by the candy shop. Which, I have to mention, was absolutely amazing. I would go to Disneyland for the fun food alone! The candy shop made me feel like I was a little girl. I love Disneyland. :)

We were waiting in line for the caravan to pick us up from the parking lot. Dax was excited and ready to go back! (these pictures were from our second day...I left our camera in the car the first day! Not to worry...my friends took pictures with there camera and more will be posted from the first day!!)
The Van Duren Family...all wearing, (i might add) is our Mickey Mouse attire. Daxton's shirt says My First Trip to Disneyland. His little hat has "Daxton" on the back.

This was also in line bright and early before entering the park.

I will post more pictures of Disneyland and our beach trip later this week. I can't fit them all on this blog. It takes to long to up load all the pictures!

Love you all..."And may the dreams that you wish come TRUE!" The did for us!
Love, Jessica, Matt, and Daxton

Friday Nights...

2007-05-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Hello All....no pictures today...I need to take some more. I thought I would share with the world this evening my eventful night. It's approximately 8:46 pm. I am sitting on my bed, Dax is next to me sleeping and I am all alone...Matt doesn't get off until 10:00 pm!! Ouch....So there is some time to kill.

It has been a pretty uneventful week. Just taking care of my little one and getting excited and ready for our trip to DISNEYLAND next week! I am thrilled. I will post lots of pictures when we get back home. (get excited) Matt started his new job at the Masters Group, and has closed at Verizon every day this week. Dax and I are missing him desperately. I am pretty sure he is missing us as well. BUT, good news, Matt's last day with Verizon is next Wednseday. HOORAY FOR MATTHEW! It will be really nice to have him home on the weekends and nights. We have never had that since we've been married. I am not sure what we will do! :)

We will be moving into our apartment on June 8th. It is Exciting...we will finaly be out on our own in California. It's a big step for our little family. We will be living in Folsom. The apartment is pretty little, but we will make due. It will be cozy. And, let's face it....after living in one bedroom for five months, anything is better than that! My greatest concern is fitting my piano in there. I think I would rather have my piano than a table....that's what I told Matt anyways. :) I am not sure how he feels about that.

SIDE NOTE------HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY TO MATTHEW! He will be turning 26 a week from tomorrow (05/26/07) We will be out of town but I wanted to make a special announcement. Stay tuned for a special post later this week...I love you honey!

The clock is ticking and I should probably transfer Daxton to his bed. Good night...sleep well!

Love,
Jessica...and sleeping baby Dax

DAXTON'S FIRST FOOD! :)

2007-05-11T14:54:00.000-07:00

THE FIRST BITE....
OOOOooooooo....I THINK HE LIKES IT?!?
OH NO, HE REALLY LIKES IT...GO GET IT DAX!
VERY SATISFYING, DON'T YA THINK?
ALL DONE, DADDY IS SO PROUD!

This was one cute morning!! I must say so myself. Brittany was sweet enough to take the pictures while Matt and I performed the task at hand. As you can see by the pictures, Daxton enjoys his food very much! :) Since these picture (that were taken about two weeks ago on a Sunday morning) Dax has had the luxury of trying, sweet potatoes, squash, apple sauce, pears, peaches, peas, and carrots. He loved them all...all except the peas. I pushed them twice, he always looses his appetite, which is a big deal for him! :)
I thought I would share with you all his first feeding. Hope you enjoyed...Dax did!

LOVE, Jessica, Matt, and Dax

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

2007-05-06T18:16:00.000-07:00

HAPPY...
BIRTHDAY...
GRANDMA...
MOM...

We love you sooooooooooooo much! You are the best mom and grandma ever. Have a wonderful day! XOXOXOXO

Love, Jessica, Matt, Dax, Boyd, Brittany, Braeton, Christian, and Ashton

EASTER...A MONTH LATE! :)

2007-05-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

* My Cheesy Bunny Baby*
* Laughing Bunny Baby *
* My Little Lamby *
*The Family...Easter Morning *
* The Traditional Bunny Cookies...made with love at Grandma Lindsay's *

Hello Family and Friends.....I just wanted to share with you our Easter....a little late. There were some darling pictures and I thought you would enjoy. We love you all, and hope you had wonderful Easters, we did. :)

I AM SO BLESSED

2007-04-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

A lot of love here!
My handsome little Man.
Daddy and Dax
Mommy and Dax

I think he is so handsome in these pictures. SHeeeeesh! I love my family!! We had some family pictures taken and I wanted to share a few with you. Dax was so smiley in all of the photos. I think he might have been in love with our cute blonde photographer. He was cheesing it up for her. He kept making us laugh the whole photo shoot.

I am soooooooooooooo blessed!! I look at my life and think about the rich blessings Heavenly Father has given me and my family and that's all I can think "I am so blessed!" Life can definately be crazy at times but blessings from heaven have been showered down upon me. Matt is such a gift. AND my darling baby DAX....well, he is the light of my life.

Sorry to get so sappy on those of you checking out the page, but I feel that way today. Can you help but feel that way when you see these sweet pics of my family? Well, here are a few more photos for you to enjoy. We love you all!

Love,

Matt, Jess, & Dax

Visit to Grandma Lindsay's

2007-04-17T17:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of Dax and I at Grandma's! :) Enjoy

Hello Again!

2007-04-17T11:25:00.000-07:00

Hello Again....everyone! We are alive! We moved to California December 31st 2006. What a way to start the new year, right?!? We are setteling in just fine here in El Dorado Hills, CA. Matt is working two jobs still....but is officially a loan officer now. Anyone need a mortgage loan or Refi? Let us know. :)

I love being a mom. It keeps me busy. I also recieved a new calling back to the Y.W at church. I am excited to have a calling. I finally feel like we are a part of our new ward! Hooray!

Dax is growing like crazy. He is almost 6 months now! Can you even believe it? I can't believe it and I spend all day, everyday with him. WILD!!

We went to Grandma Lindsay's for Easter. We had a blast. My mom and I took Matt and Dax to the Easter Pageant for the first time. It was so beautiful. I cried.

Dax had several firsts at Grandma Lindsay's House. He had his first hair cut. (Which I have to admit was emotional for him, AND for me!) He went in the pool for his first time, and celebrated his first Easter. It really feels like time is flying around here...

My friend Stacy let me know about this blogger page and so I thought I would share what was happening with my family!! I hope you enjoy the VAN DUREN FAMILY'S first blogger page EVER! Hooray for us, and for all of you who will get to enjoy it! :)

We'll write soon! Lot's of love,
Matt, Jessica, and Dax