Yost Party of 5

Hello anyone there???

2011-12-14T14:30:00.001-08:00

WOW! How is 2 1/2 years for a break from my blog. From the looks of these pics I have some updating to do. Our computer is in the pooper so I am going to make a major effort to do some updating but it may take a bit. My kids are taller than I am. We no longer live in Queen Creek. Chad and I both have different jobs. ALOT to post. But hold on to your bars its coming soon...

Riding with the girls!

2009-08-25T22:54:00.000-07:00

Super fun summer of riding with the ladies!!!!

Moutain girls : Stephanie, Mellissa, Kim, Me

Road : This is Me & Amber first trip to EOP! Yeah us!!!!! We tackled a snake and a few wasps to get there but it was worth it!

Football it is!

2009-08-17T16:46:00.000-07:00

By huge demand I am finally getting the pics of Cayli out for the world of Yost to see.....

For the people who are unaware yes this is Cayli and yes she is playing on boys JV football team at the high school this year. After 2 years of begging Chad and I we finally caved and can say I am so glad we did!

These are the pics of football camp

She is amazing.....

and more amazing....

5 days before football camp I got a call from the nurse at camp Lomia (girls camp) telling me Cayli had injured her ankle and she was concerned that she may need to come home and see a DR. Cayli wanted to stay for the fear that going home might mean no FB camp. So we began the Ibuprofin treatment and all the ice the nurse would shell out. Went to football camp 5 days later and began what was the most amazing training I have ever witnessed for a group of kids. She was tuffer than I ever even imagined she could be. The medic came to me and requested that she not continue because he could see that there was swelling and a definite injury but Cayli would have nothing to do with the idea of quiting. So we iced her, wrapped her, and drugged her and she went out there like a champ and performed right along with the rest of the team without even a whisper of complaint. I sat in complete amazement of her dedication, commitment and desire to be the best she could be.

Combs football 2009-2010

Since she is the only girl on the team and there are no woman coaches (of course) I got to go and be her escort. As I have said before High School football camp with my daughter is one place I never thought I would be. But here I am with my CRAZY daughter and it was a blast!!!!!! I got up at 5 am and ran with the team each morning...WOW!!!!!! But it was AWESOME!!!!!!

First game in 2 days...I cant wait!!!!

IM BACK!

2009-08-11T17:58:00.000-07:00

Ok people sorry about the absence! I now am trying to find the time to embark on the task of trying to cover the highlights of the summer and get current with our goings ons! Im just not sure as to the best way to go about it so I decided it is going to be completely out of order and random until I get everything covered that is about as organized as my time will allow. Sooooo here goes nothing............ Here is the big stuff pictures might follow or might not but just a little update.

Summer was AWESOME! Hotter than Hells Kitchen but I love Az so suck it up right!!!! We went to Flagstaff, Sedona, Springerville, Heber, Scottsdale Resort and ditched Mexico and Cali that sounds kinda dumb but time would not permit! Plus we sure were enjoying the cooler weather activities.

Anyway school has officially started and contrary to rumors which started with myself and the kids. I left my kids in the Combs district, mostly because of the fact that Cayli finally got her way (big shocker) and we let her play football. YES that would be the boys JV team at the High School (pictures will for sure follow)

So this year they are all at there own school and YES that means 3 rounds of drop off/pick up!

Cayli and Walker are in football and Brody will soon (and much to his surprise for his rapidly approaching birthday so don't spoil the secret) be joining the RC racing circuit. This is going to be so fun. I am not sure how long I will be able to hold his Dad and Brother off before he has to fight for control of his own car or be actually racing them with there own cars, but I will do my best to keep it his own as long as I can! Who am I kidding he might be fighting me for it!

My Blog is on a SABBATICAL!

2009-06-09T18:02:00.000-07:00

Our party of 5 on the Flagstaff/Sedona Tour

I just realized I have not posted anything for a month. We have traveled and loved and laughed alot but I have not had the time to post the fun proof that I have captured with my camera. I being in the midst of summer with my 15, 12, and 8 year old am running crazy trying to enjoy every minute I have with them. I am proud to say that I am letting my house go, my blog go, and many other things that usually have priority ggggoooooo!

So I am officially declaring my blog on SABBATICAL! Unless with a total surprise even to myself it will remain on sabbatical until August with much back reporting to do. So please don't forget about me, just put me on your calender next to "the kids are back in school".

I love you all and hope that you are having a fantastic summer as I know we are. Big kisses til August - Shawna

Bye Bye Bella....

2009-05-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

As much as we loved her we couldn't keep her. Bucky has completely flipped out. Our once beyond perfect dog has become a very weird dog with serious issues, so we finally bit the bullet and found Bella a new home with the hopes that Bucky would return to normal. So much for having a lap dog. 24 hours later and Bucky is back to beyond perfect. WEIRD! I guess as long as we have him (which we hope is forever) we wont be having any other dog. We are all his! Hope he can handle all 5 of us. Well, thanks Websters for taking Bella and I am sure loving her as much if not more than we did. Bye Bye Bella...

Happy B-Day Babe!

2009-04-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Chad! I cant even put into words how lucky. blessed. or just totally STOKED that we are to have you as our husband and dad. You make our lives fun and exciting and full of love. You make it ALL possible. So even though we celebrate you everyday. We want to give you a huge shout out on YOUR day!

Thanks dad for all the fun things you do with us! Thanks honey for the best life anyone could ask for!

WE LOVE YOU! Happy Birthday!

OPEN MIC

2009-04-04T09:47:00.000-07:00

Allie and Cayli rehearsing and nervously waiting for their turn

Caylis hello and intro

My guess would be about 75 people. These girls ROCK! They did an amazing job. It was a 2 song set both songs were by My Chemical Romance (MCR) . Allie plays a mean guitar and Cayli did an awesome job on vocals, she didn't miss a beat.

You girls are my idols!

2009 BAJA 250

2009-03-20T17:07:00.001-07:00

This is San Felipe...my home away from home... I WISH!

KIMMY KIM KIM KIM!

Clancey Pants

Chaddles, Shawna, and Hanky

Checking into "La Casa Korf"

Tacos anyone

Baja 250. Check in point.

La Baja...

Seeing the chase 'copters come around the mountain in the distance and a cloud of dust below is soooo freakin cool!

The Baja is so intense. These trucks are flying. Robbie Gordon was clocked at 145 MPH during the pre-run. And yes we are standing inches away from them as they go by. It is a rush I cant even explain.

7:00 in the morning getting ready to head out for some fishing... I love this picture it captures the serenity of it all.

Hank, Kim, Clancey and Chaddles.

I wanted to catch a bird it seemed like it would have been a little bit more exciting. They sat and waited to eat all the fish we threw back. Smart birds why do the work when you can have it done for you?

It looks like someone speared us. Those are fishing poles. We got lazy. Hey its Mexico.....

The guys cooked up the fish and almost burned down the neighbors pallapa in the process but they are boy scouts so all is well. I had to try it since we actually caught it and I have to say it wasn't bad.

Then there was the dancing......Not even sure what to say about that?

To make the trip totally complete we had to ride the Bull! There was also some interesting golfing and an incident on the beach with some fire works but you cant capture it all. We had a blast I cant wait to do it again.

Derby Time!

2009-03-08T18:35:00.001-07:00

Brodys first Pinewood Derby. What fun! He had so much fun making his car. This is right up his alley. He wanted to do it himself with as little help from Chad as possible. I think he did a pretty good job.Brody Yost racing "Elenore" #88
His favorite car is a Shelby GT 500. So this is what they went for.
I love to see all the different ideas that everyone comes up with.

They went super high tech this year. I have never seen anything like it.

We didn't have the best luck with speed. Our wheels were not balance and caused some issues. But we raced and raced and raced and it was a blast!

Look at the cool pit passes they even had. How awesome it that!

Thats My Boy!

2009-03-07T21:43:00.000-08:00

This boy never gives up! This was his Christmas present, he had to have it. Well a few gouges and bruises but check him out, 2 months and here he is!

35!

2009-03-05T13:16:00.001-08:00

Well today is the so totally awesome 35. Why is it so totally awesome you say? Because, my lucky or favorite numbers are first #3 and second #5 what do you get when you put them together? That's right all you smarties 35!!! 35 35 35 35 35! I like it ALOT! I think that 35 is going to totally ROCK the house. So far so good. Lets see I learned to stand on my head with no wall while doing tricks, got moms homemade pizza, and am going to Mexico in 6 days for 4 days with some of the coolest friends ever. How cool is that! I have the best Husband ever and rocking kids who are so making it happy everyday. So I am sure the blog will continue to keep you posted on the greatness of 35 but definitely so far so good!

Pizza Party!

2009-03-05T12:48:00.000-08:00

What does everyone want on their birthday??? What else..a pizza party!
Moms homemade recipe. Jody pointed out that it is like an every 6 year occurrence. This makes it extra special. When mom said I could have whatever I wanted of course I said pizza and her immediate response was I knew that's what you would say if I gave you a choice. Oh mom you know me to well.

As always I think the secret is in the sauce.

Thanks mom for working all day long. And Cayli for 4 hours of chopping toppings.

Yummy! Look at the grease that is what makes it soooo delicious!

Yeah!! Its my birthday, its my birthday! I loooove birthdays.

Its their birthday to since they have to put up with me all year.

I'm still the only one that gets to make a wish but they all shouted one out anyway.

This guy is what makes all my birthdays so special.

Thanks everyone for celebrating with me.

We love you Grandma and Papa Lane!

2009-03-05T12:42:00.000-08:00

Cayli, Riley and Demi. So beautiful!

Is this a missionary line up or what? Walker, Alex, Hunter, Brody & Cody. Arent they sooo handsome!

Rock Climbing anyone?

2009-03-05T12:31:00.001-08:00

Moms night with the boys. What to do... what to do... oh I know... Go rock climbing!Brody harnessed and ready to go...

Walker giving it a rest....

Walker, Brody and Wyatt Skinner. Walker just got down from reaching the top.

far left is Brody, middle is Walker, and far right is Josh Cox

This is such a blast. We all had a great time. The boys can make it all the way to the top on the far left but going up the center is a much bigger challenge you actually get upside down and you have to get over a cliff, this was my challenge I tried to get over the cliff all night but eventually your hands just wont go anymore. We are going to get this just not sure who will get it first.

Visit to the Odom farm!

2009-03-04T19:45:00.000-08:00

We love you Uncle Jesse and Aunt Harriet!

Uncle Jesse is a roper. So he has all kinds of fun stuff.

There was a Goose running around getting chased down by the kids and Bucky

Cayli walked out to see the horses.
Walker was gonna rope the dang thing if it was the last thing he did!
I think he finally got a horn. Way to be persistent son!

Race #3

2009-02-23T07:05:00.000-08:00

Estrella Mountain Park - rocky, sandy, technical.....not a favorite!

Cant see enough of these hotties!

Bucky's first race. Lots of girlfriends!

My first medal in Sport class...YEAH! 4th place. Next stop Prescott (love this one)!

Ouch!

2009-02-20T20:02:00.000-08:00

Chad and Cayli went on a mtn. bike ride together while the boys and I went to four square, when we returned to pick them up Cayli was bleeding like crazy. Of course she is tuff as nails saying "its nothing" but the blood told a different story. She had a close encounter with a large boulder which left her with a huge gash. She is hard core! Way to go Cayli!

Four Square

2009-02-20T19:37:00.000-08:00

There is a Church (not sure of the denomination) in Mesa that one night a week puts on an evening for the youth with bike ramps and a dirt jump area. Its pretty intense a boy pulled of a back flip like it was nothing while we sat with are chins on the ground. The boys love it. They ride for about 2 hours then the leaders give a 10 -15 minute devotional. Which is interesting to the boys, its like getting a bit of religious culture.

Im rolling again!

2009-02-11T09:38:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I blogged about my current lack of a vehicle situation. I was holding out to get what I wanted. Well a good friend of ours is in the auto business and was very confident he could get me what I wanted with what I had in my pocket or maybe less and right now. Sounds good to me. I told him I wasn't to picky the fact that he could get me a Durango for what I had was awesome. I wasn't going to be crazy picky about it 4x4 or not whatever. The ONLY deal breaker was NO TAN!!!!! This was a deal breaker! Chad talked to him a couple of times and I was hollering in the back "whatever, whatever, just no tan that is definitely a deal breaker". He would get off the phone and I would say "he knows tan is a deal breaker right?" I even was willing to do an Expedition instead of a Durango but NO TAN!!!! Anyway, Friday his wife called me after only 5 days of him looking and said he had a Durango for me to see but she had no info on it. We arrived at their house he had found me a Durango alright it was incredibly clean inside and out, low miles, 4x4, tow pkg, it had everything, I don't think the back seats where ever even used, it was the same year as my black one but in WAY better shape. So of course right? Why wouldn't you do it? It wouldn't get better than this, nothing else needed.....Just one thing.......

ITS TAN!!!! Inside and Out....Of course it is what else would it be. I willed it to be tan by being so against it. This is the way my life goes I am constantly being reminded lately that it is not about what I want. And if I forget that and think it is then I am proven wrong in an instant. We went back and forth about this for 2 days. You cant not get a car in this shape because you are prejudice. So here it is my new identity......

Thanks to all my wonderful friends and family that supported me through my no car phase. Its my turn to drive......

Race #2

2009-02-10T07:10:00.001-08:00

I am super pleased to report a 6th place finish! This race was a sprint, these ladies kill it! My goal for the season is to place in the top 5. If I could do that I would be stoked! So 6th is sounding pretty good to me for my first finish in this class. I was butter fingers and dropped my nutrition and water bottle so it made it a little bit more challenging in an unnecessary kind of way.

water...I need water....
16.68 miles in 1:27:33 (1:26:17 was the official time)

OH MY HAIL!!

2009-02-09T15:24:00.000-08:00

Hail- a form of precipitation which consists of balls or irregular lumps of ice falling from the sky.
or a fun way for your kids to put ice down each others back sides (bypassing cloths) or pelt each other in the face!!!!

Superbowl

2009-02-03T18:36:00.000-08:00

Good Friends + Good Food + Good Superbowl = Good Time!

Sweet helmet Clancey.

It got pretty intense during the 4th Q

Apparently no party is complete without Sushi. Thanks to Kim and Clancey for providing it or my party would have been a flop.

Sandi came prepared with the 3D glasses

Not sure what Shawn is doing to the Dog?

15 year olds are just stoked there is a PARTY! Woo Hoo!

Clancey?

What a Tropper!

2009-02-02T13:02:00.000-08:00

Brody is so awesome! He loves to ride his mountain bike. He is getting so good even when he is a little timid. Saturday we took him with us on our early Saturday ride to Mcdowell and he was going so fast just like a little pro. He ate it so hard it freaked Chad out. A total face plant into the dirt and rock on a super bumpy downhill. He chipped a tooth, got a fat lip, and hammered his knee. Poor guy! But it didn't stop him he took a little break at the truck and went back out to run it again. Good job buddy!

Rock On!

2009-01-28T12:02:00.001-08:00

How cute are these girls. This was a little jam session they had going on. They take guitar together on Wed nights. Allie is super advanced and Cayli is getting better and better every week. We keep hoping for another open mic night to hear them jam. Last time Allie played while Cayli sang. Now Allie is working on singing and Cayli playing. But it is new to both of them. I just stinkin love these 2 they are soooo fun.

CAR OR NO CAR

2009-01-26T08:30:00.001-08:00

So I am entering month 5 with no wheels! Wow! I have beat my previous record. The last time I decided to get rid of my car I think I went 5 and then caved and bought a gas hog suburban. Well yesterday my husband actually got me looking at an auto trader ( he is going nuts with me not having a car) and I found some cool old stuff. I want something with character. There was the coolest van it was from the 80s. Did you ever see "Strange Brew" (classic!) It looked like the Mackenzies but it was all tricked out painted like tony the tiger with the ladder to get on top and it had the rack and all. We could totally go on a road trip and pull over and layout on top or chill on the lawn chairs ON THE TOP how sweet is that. We could watch the races from up there. I so want it. Chad is giving me the practical shut down. DANGIT! There was a cool 1970 Bronco. Super cool! And of course Chad thinks its cool so no shut down on that one.

I think my kids are starting to get a little irritated that I don't have a car. 5 months and Walker still asks me to take him places. I don't know how many times I have had to say "ya get on my back". Brody loves it he never wants to leave anyway. Cayli is bummed because she likes to call me from school and ask me to bring her things that she suddenly decided she needs.

Anyway I think the clock is ticking and I might have to actually put some real thought into getting a car soon. What to do? What to do?

A review of my cars:

84 mini blazer - 1st car and super cool it was white with cool wheels back then they were 15s not 20s and a bumping system. Tone Loc never sounded so good.

89 Toyota pick -Black lifted with wheels and tires and lots of chrome.

92 Jeep Wrangler - Blue super cool tricked out but it had NO A/C which talk about practical I was pregnant and living in AZ in Aug. It sucked!

93 Altima - It was time to grow up we had a baby and her head bobbed in the loud jeep the whole way home from the hospital.

93 Jeep Wrangler - growing up sucks and she could hold her head up now.

96 Jeep Cherokee - Hey its still a jeep and after baby #2 in a 4 seater jeep trying to pack to go to grandmas for Christmas Chad and I knew it was time to be practical and get a bigger car.

89 Pontiac Grand AM - in 2000 lease was up we gave the jeep back and bought the $49.99 car yes that was $49.99 its not a typo the kids loved it and they called it the "race car" It was like having a permanent rental car. we tore it up!

95 Jeep Wrangler - old habits die hard what can I say. 3 kids and mom drives a 4 seater Jeep. I know I know grow up and be practical shut up I hate that

01 Ford Focus Wagon - I will show you Grow up and be practical. I got a wagon!!

98 GMC Suburban - Ok I will grow up but I still need to look cool!

02 Honda Civic - $1.89 a gallon was killer so we took the cheep route.

00 Dodge Durango - The civic wasn't safe and I felt like I was riding on a skateboard and no one could see me. Oh how much I loved my Durango it had the best sound system EVER (thanks Cliff) it was perfect.I miss it. Cleaning it out to trade in was a sad sad day. I think I had a bit of a personality crisis after that.

07 Mazda 3 - Chad was driving over 200 miles a day to work and not getting paid for travel and gas was $3 and up. so We traded the Durango for the Mazda and I got a cool F150 out of the deal. Not so bad. Then 3 months later I quit DNA and Chad switched jobs and the Mazda is gone he gets the truck and I want my Durango back. (I think I am in a little bit of a protest) I WANT MY DURANGO BACK!

Race #1

2009-01-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

Well I will give the final result first it was a big fat DNF! My first and hopefully my last! I don't think this trail likes me. Last year I had a little trouble staying on the bike and it claimed quite a bit of flesh.

The morning started out crazy. We have to be there 1 hour before start time to register or it closes, so that creates a little stress when that means you have to be at Cotton Lane and Olive by 7:45 am. We left 10 minutes late, forgot to get gas and had our beautiful picture taken twice on the freeway. That is so nice of them to put cameras out there and then mail you a pic for free it will be awesome in the photo album! We made it with 6 minutes to spare shweeeew.

Then we take deep breaths as we prep the bike, get dressed, and warm up. Uh Oh! Broken pedal. Thank goodness Chad took his bike just in case he could ride. We made a quick pedal change and I was in line ready to go. Yeah! I get super excited here its a super cool feeling.

Having a little trouble with the timing chip.

Checking tires and swapping pedals. Hurry!

30 seconds, 15 seconds, GO!

Not really the way I would like to finish a race but s**t happens! I was supposed to do 3 Loops and about 1.5 miles from completing the first loop I broke my Derailleur, Derailleur Hanger and the chain this is not a fix and get back in situation. This is a start walking cause you are DONE situation. The few miles that I did go were the funnest and most competitive and challenging of any race yet. I am so bummed I did not get to finish but it makes me so excited for race #2.

The damage.

My crew chief, mechanic, trainer, nutritionist, photographer, and biggest fan.

I love these guys. They support me and sit here waiting for me to come through so they can hand off GU and Water and cheer me on. They are the best. Thanks guys! L for Love!

Me feeding Don. It was my first experience in the feed zone. I am usually being fed not feeding. Fun though.

Walker doing a sprint race that they set up in the pit area.

Brody waiting for the crowd to go away to race the course.

Good times!

Don Expert 5th place

Zack Expert 2nd place

SUPERCROSS 2009

2009-01-12T09:43:00.001-08:00

I just don't even know what to say about Supercross. I LOVE IT!!!!! It makes me miss my bike soooooooo much. I actually came home and joined the MMI online 2009 MDK Honda CRF 250R give away. It will be mine oh yes it will be mine. Chad and I were both soo bummed. It has been a year since either of us have ridden and I would have to say that is one year to long. Soon soon soon we just have to keep telling ourselves. We will ride again soon. Supercross was so fun we decided kind of at the last minute to make a family trip out of it. The sacrifice required what we thought to not be as good of tickets as we usually have but we were wrong. Our view of the track was AWESOME. We actually thought we might just do the higher and cheaper tickets again next year. The night with the kids was a blast. Cayli and Walker were super excited when we told them they were going. Brody was cool with it I think he was more excited about the cotton candy and the paper airplanes. He was mad at me for not letting him take his book that shows you how to make 100 different paper airplanes. The intermission show used to be the little kids on KTMs and this year they did freestyle. It was ok until they did a back flip train that was so flippin sweet (Go Cowboy Kenny!). This is definitely the best way to start a new year!!!

Cool view huh? It looks farther away than it really was.

Have you ever fed a family at the ball park? well we didn't win the lottery this year so we went to Charlies and Pandas on the way.

Brody finally learned how to use the chop stix.

Ohh it was so fun.

I seriously could not contain my excitement!!!!!

So cute!

Cayli was having a little trouble containing herself as well. Chad Reed is hot she says!

Walker would of course rather be riding than watching!

So much excitement.

Airplane making. this is serious business. The security guards came to confiscate and we told Brody to hide it. He was so confused.

I don't think I have had cotton candy since the 80's but what the heck its supercross. This stuff was so fresh and tasty. Yummy.

Yummy!

Airplane strategy!

I love these guys. They made it so fun!

There is always so much love after a family affair.

SUPERCROSS

2009-01-11T19:22:00.000-08:00

There are no words! If I could bottle the smell and cage the sound and the adrenaline I would!!

Resolution #1 - Try New Things!

2009-01-10T10:45:00.001-08:00

This year one of my resolutions and I don't usually do the resolution thing but what the hey is to try new things. To step out of the box anywhere that I am set in my ways. I am going to be a rebel. So last night we tried something new.

I am very weird about what I eat. I have my favorite restaurants and my favorite dishes that I always order. If I am going to eat bingefully than I am going to do it with something that I know I love and can be looking forward to. I don't even like to taste other peoples food. You know when you go out with your friends and they know you don't like something so it becomes there mission in life to get you to eat it. Yes I am speaking to those of you who are always trying to shove sea food or even worse sushi down my throat. How many times do you need to see the gagging fear factor reaction? Seriously, doesn't it get old? Anyway, so I really do want to be a little more rebellious in this department so we went for Greek last night. What is Greek food? I was thinking Lamb and Potatoes?

Here is our "Big Fat Greek " experience: OPA!!

I didn't get sick on the boat ride Yeah!

Restaurant of choice. It seemed clean. I am all about the atmosphere. When we sat down we asked our waitress for the Greek experience. She showed us the Greek part of the menu and then the American Greek version. We said Greek all the way. so we ordered what she suggested.

Desert first. I couldn't resist Baklava Cheesecake! OPA! Where has this been hiding all my life OMG! It was so heavenly we ordered one after our meal too!

Mousaka: Potato, zucchini, eggplant, ground beef concoction, cheese and a little ??? It was interesting, I would eat it again

and of course Lamb chops. They were yummy a little to much fat for my liking but the Marinade was yummy.

It was super fun. OPA! I cant wait for our next new adventure I am thinking skydiving?

BABY BELLA

2009-01-04T19:08:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the family BELLA. I have been wanting a tiny dog forever. Well I finally did it. Here she is little BELLA. She is sooooo fun, playfull, and best of all snugly. She curls up into your neck, under your covers, anywhere she can be warm. I love how super tiny she is, she keeps getting lost but the kids love looking for her. Bucky I think is even enjoying her.

Goodbye 2008

2008-12-31T13:19:00.000-08:00

As we prepare to have a fun evening with close friends and to celebrate a new year. I cant help but think more about the year that I am leaving behind. So much that you want to forget and say farewell to, and so much that you wish you could hold onto forever.
What a year....I don't know if words can even describe the
Joy, Love, and Laughter
Pain, Sacrifice, and Sadness
Experience, Growth, and Change
and the lifetime of Blessings that 2008 had to offer.
This will without a doubt be one of those years that I will never forget. In 15 years, Chad and I are going to look back and say "remember when.....in 08......" .

As a person I have grown more, lost more, found more, loved more and been blessed more than I believe I have ever in my life. As a family we have grown closer and learned more about each other I think than ever before. I am grateful for the husband that I have been blessed to share my life with, and 3 beautiful, kind, loving children that I am so proud to call mine.

I am sure from the newly realized experience and change that one year can bring, 2009 will be VERY interesting! I wish you all a Happy New Year and hope that we can all take something from 2008 that will make us better, stronger, happier people.

THE PIT

2008-12-28T22:43:00.000-08:00

The Pit is a downhill course on a mountain off of Ellsworth down by Usery. Some pretty crazy down hill guys with a vision made it with a few shovels and picks. It is just the coolest place on the planet to Walker. Telling him we will go to the pit is like telling a 5 year old your going to Disneyland! Climbing to the top is super steep and you will definitely be pushing your bike to get there. Coming down it on foot is just about a guarantee that your gonna be on your butt! When you get to the top you can see the fountain in Fountain Hills its pretty cool. So Brody, Cayli and I hiked while Chad and Walker pushed up scoping out the jumps and bombing down.

Walker! Hes CRAZY! (I am so proud)

Cayli and Bucky ready to go
Chad and Walker headed up

Chad and Walker headed down

Near the top taking a break

Brody at the top. You can see a smig if the fountain in the background

Me getting a little love. "How you doin?" "Come here often?"

Who needs a bike?

Christmas Morning!

2008-12-28T22:17:00.001-08:00

It was a VERY Merry Christmas! We kept it simple and spent more time with family than shopping. The parties were all a blast and the treats were a little to yummy for my waistline. It was so great to see all of our family and friends. It seems like some we only see once a year, I wish it was more often. Here are some pics from Christmas morning. With the kids and their smiles!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WALKER

2008-12-16T12:32:00.001-08:00

Mountain biking

Being pulled on his longboard by the golf cart

Vote Walker for Treasurer

Paintballing

My not so little guy anymore turned 12. He just continues to get funner and funner. We enjoy so many of the same things he really is so full of fun and energy. This year was pretty fun for him. He raced his first mountain bike race, learned how to surf, is Treasurer at school, played football and his team was #1. He also loves to play basketball, ride his longboard and build jumps with his friends. He has a special something about him he is so loving and sweet and yet ALL boy. I guess that would be considered charming which I think he got from his Dad. Happy Birthday Buddy! Stop growing!

CHRISTMAS AT OUR HOUSE

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

The Yost Crew. Minus Donald, Jennifer and Jacob who were at there new home in Springerville enjoying cold snowy weather. Brrrrrr......

Cayli and Lexi. Bucky sure loved having her at the party.

Rock Band is the best game ever invented. I don't know how but I missed the photo op of the adults playing. Brandon walked off limping from cramping up while playing the drums. I think his Aerosmith dream might have just been crushed. I think Sherri and Shawna cleared the room with there versions of Nirvana and Bon Jovi. Patrick I think is a closet player because he sat silently on the couch with the guitar not skipping a beat. But the kids have the most fun we couldn't keep it adults only for long.

Riley our future DIVA

We are going to the 2012 Olympics

Unless these 2 keep it going!

This was a pretty intense game of Foosball. See the sweat dripping?
Mom vs Daughter. The moms kicked there trash!

My Family - Dad, Me, Brandon, Shelly, Sherri, Mom...We have not taken a picture of just the 6 of us in a long time. This picture is freaking me out we are all OLD!!!!

Mom and Dad YOST and Mom and Dad LANE (m & d Lane just got back from 2 weeks in the Bahamas just to explain those tans. I'm jealous)

We played the white elephant game for the kids. It was interesting. They all wanted to open their own no one wanted to steel..hmmm. and no one wanted the pretty wrapped ones with candy canes on top. They wanted the ones that didn't look as pretty. Then when they found out that one of the identically wrapped gifts was yes a box of Captain crunch (Shelly this is still baffling me) I thought for sure they would start steeling but no they continued to unwrap and have cereal!? It was fun. Then Walker made a trade he had the NEW Hulk movie and traded for a pretty bracelet....hmmmm.....

On the menu "Navajo Tacos" - Indian Fry bread with meat, beans, lettuce, tomato, and of course Taylors homemade salsa. Thank you Tess for rolling and Taylor for frying!

This was all so fun. Thank you EVERYONE for coming and I cant wait to do it again.

LIL WISE MEN

2008-12-16T07:14:00.000-08:00

Every year my neighborhood puts on a live nativity. This year someone had the not so brilliant idea of putting Chad and I in charge. I have no idea why someone would want to do that but they did.

The thing that gets me the most, is the fact that we went through 800 donuts. That's alot of donuts! The boxes filled the bed of our truck.

Walker was one of the wise men,
Cayli was supposed to sing with the angel choir but got pretty sick and stayed in bed,
Brody prefers to watch he is not into the whole performing thing.

Anyway, it was so good thanks to the 100 people who have a hand in making it a success and helping so that I did not have a complete breakdown. It is quite the production and was a huge challenge for my need to be a perfectionist. Its just not meant to be perfect. Its meant to be kids under the age of 16 sharing the true story of Christmas, and that it was!

Walker as a wise man
Brody, Tess and Henri front row!

WHY?

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

So I got up at 5:30 this morning with the temp at about 42 degrees to drive out to Idaho and Main, exit my vehicle leaving my wonderful heater behind, put on to much spandex for anyone and ride my bike beyond Canyon Lake to Tortilla Flats. It is about 30 miles round trip and has ALOT of serious climbing. I go with a good friend of mine who is completely insane (which requires me to push beyond my limit)and he could probably do it in half the time if I wasn't there, but he still continues to invite me I have no idea why. Anyway the big why.....every time I do this ride I get so sick, and I am worthless for the rest of the day, I even usually have to resort to some sort of hard RX to help me along. So this morning as I am trying to get my legs to function so that I can begin my 48 hours of baking marathon, I find myself asking WHY WHY WHY? Why do I do this to myself? I could have slept in, cuddled with Chad, got the kids off to school, and then went back to bed. Now were talkin!!

Well I do enjoy it for some cRaZy reason and it is incredible therapy, not to mention it is so super beautiful. No ipod and no phone there really is something so serene about it. I guess maybe that is sort of, kind of a good reason. It must be because I'm sure by next weeks ride I will have forgotten the post-misery yet again and I will be back out there for another round of therapeutic torture.

PRICELESS CHRISTMAS MOMENT

2008-12-11T10:52:00.000-08:00

Cayli just down loaded the memory card out of her camera for the 1st time. The pictures went all the way back to 7/2004. This is a picture of my dad with huge crocodile tears. His dog had died and he was missing his companion but my mom wasn't to keen on the idea of getting him a new one. Soooooo his kidos (that would be me and 3 others) decided that we would get him one for Christmas and surprise him. We DEFINITELY surprised him! My mom who we did not ask for fear of being told NO even cried. He loves his dog! This was a Christmas moment to remember!

Finally!

2008-12-03T09:13:00.000-08:00

It is Finally starting to look like Christmas at my house. Thank you Brody! He was my decorating buddy, I couldnt have done it without him. He is so excited for Santa. I love it!

Thanksgiving 08

2008-12-02T13:44:00.001-08:00

Well I finally got to our pictures from our Thanksgiving trip. However they are so random and out of order I did the best I could. (not so good at this blogging thing yet!) We had so much fun we went for 5 days and played and played and ate and played.

Football! The only way to work off the turkey!

The creek was totally iced over.

Brody found a friend. We couldnt get the lizard off him!

Thank you Tess and Henri we had a blast!

Brody, Cayli, and Walker

We we went up the mountain to do a downhill mountain bike ride with the kids, and their cousin Jacob and his friend Dillon. But what we found (not a huge suprise since it was freezing and rainy the whole time) was a lot of snow. But of course they had a blast, throwing snow balls.

Then we went to the bottom of the mountain and climbed the trail. Still fun but I think the boys would have rather been bombing down from the top.

Yes we were all FREEZING!

They were so bundled up and still came back with frozen faces. But Brody was so excited!

The big kids went on a long Rhino ride and came back FROZEN!

Mom worked on the bike jump with brody. Hes more of a table top kinda guy, and this double wasnt working for him.

Dad and Cayli!

Tess and I in the kitchen which was where we spent the better part of 2 days. Here we are making Navaho tacos for Thanksgiving Eve dinner. We figured Indian meal on Wed and Pilgram meal on Thur. Tess is an amazing cook! I got a lot of good tips. But I havent fed my kids that much butter and oil in there life. (which apparently is the key)

NEW MOON. NEW ME!

2008-11-30T17:07:00.000-08:00

The "Twilight" movie was so awesome I robbed "New Moon" from Caylis library and actually finished it! Me! An adrenaline junkie who has not read a book since high school. Not even sure I did then? What an incredible sense of accomplishment for me. Yeah! It was so good. I'm a little embarrassed but I actually got a little emotional (OK ALOT) when Edward left her! Now I am on to Eclipse. I am hoping for the same enjoyment, that I might get involved in it enough to motivate me to finish it! I think Chad is wondering who I am and what I did with his wife?

I HATE PACKING

2008-11-25T14:22:00.000-08:00

Cant we just get in the car and go? We would figure something out, right? I am so OCD that packing is a huge issue. All day I have been wandering around my house starting little piles of what not while still having the annoying issue of needing my house to be PERFECT before departure. Garbage taken out, all dishes washed and put away, all laundry washed and put away, all potentially stinky animal cages and boxes cleaned, refrigerator free of anything that might perish, all beds made so tight you could bounce a feather, and every last thing in its place, then there is the make sure it is locked up like Fort Knocks issue. What the crap! So again I say cant we just leave? Who needs to pack and prepare? To this Chad said "Ya right as if you could even do that!" Plus we are going to be in very very cold weather, which freaks me out. I am a 4th generation native to this place I get so cold it hurts. We were at the mall the other day and Chad was laughing at the people you see where one of them has shorts, a tank, and flip flops on and the other has jeans, a sweater and boots on. I looked at him and pointed out the fact that we are those people..CHELLO! So trying to pack for cold weather is difficult. But I guess I better get a move on I dont think blogging is getting me the results one would hope for.

Anyway...

Happy Turkey Day!!!! I will be thankful for blankets and sweaters and long socks and space heaters!

INSOMNIA

2008-11-24T23:22:00.000-08:00

So looking at the clock it is 12:34 am. What the crap! I cant sleep, I actaully feel like I could run a marathon. Chad is snoring so I believe even attempting to go back to bed would be a loss! What do you do when there is nothing to do? Blog about the fact that you are doing nothing!

Usually, I lay my head on the pillow and its over. Next thing I know Cayli is tapping me to inform me that she has gotten herself up, ready, eaten (usually a pb & honey sandwich), and the crazy early carpool is honking. Yep, I get the mother of the year award! Well I guess at least that part of the routine will still be in tact in the morning!

Remember when you were 16 and you and your friend would pull an all nighter just to be cool and say you stayed up all night! Usually by morning someone had peed their pants from laughing so hard and there was no sugar left in the cupboards. Oh the memories!

Well I guess I will go ............. I dont know ........... hmmmmm...........um......

Dangit! This is for the birds!

Im gonna go put shaving cream on Chads hand and tickle his nose. heheheh.....

NOW I GET IT!

2008-11-21T09:35:00.000-08:00

Finally! I have entered the world of "Twilight". Yeah! Last night my friend Sandy and I took our girls Allie and Cayli to see the much anticipated movie. All of them being huge fans because they have read the book (Cayli 6 times) and me patiently waiting because I dont read anything over 100 pages, if that.

Well I must say WOW! I LOVED it! I now feel like a 12 year old saying "Edward is HOT!"

So now the huge problem. I cant wait til I am 40 for Hollywood to finish the series. I need all my questions answered NOW!!!

I need the play out of such an incredible love story. I am such a sucker for a good love story.

I tried to get Sandy to spill all the secrets, but such a good friend does not want to ruin it for me. She told me to buy the tapes and listen to it. Thank you Sandy, I am going to get right on that! But, I had better hurry because after I dropped her off Cayli who was silently waiting couldnt help her self and sort of exploded with enough info to make me need it that much more! I dont know how long I can keep from forcing her to tell me the rest!

SEASON ENDS!

2008-11-10T14:53:00.002-08:00

Well we played the Semi final game on Saturday and I am very sad to report a loss. We are out, no championship game for us. I can say we ended the season 6-o and went to the finals #1. How AWESOME! The semi final game was so exciting! I know Walker will remember it and tell his children so many times they will be sick of it. It was 0-7 with 2 minutes left on the clock in the 4th Q. We scored!!! Oh my the screaming, and the jumping, and the hugging from the sides was crazy. We scored the extra point and took the game into overtime. Both teams scored and we went into double overtime. We scored and caught the pass for the extra point but for whatever reason the Ref did not call it. The other team scored and got the extra point. GAME OVER! It was heart breaking to see the tears in the boys eyes. What an upset. Still such a fun season and such a GREAT team.

Happy Birthday Cayli

2008-10-28T08:19:00.000-07:00

The day was wonderful she is such a beautiful girl and she has such a beautiful spirit. I could not ask for a more loving, kind, giving, smart, fun, beautiful daughter.

She is Daddys little girl
Dinner at Carabbas Yummy!
She is moms BFF!

She has spent the last 3 months managing the high school football team. I think it might be the funnest thing she has ever done. They had their last football game on her Bday, and after a pretty tough season and only one win. They won the game! What a way to celebrate. The entire stands sang "Happy Birthday" to her, and after the game they dumped the jug of water over her head. I wish I could freeze that smile on her face, and for those of you who know Cayli those tears! Happy birthday baby!

SISTERS

2008-10-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

Remember when:

If we get lost we will just ask someone where an ABC Store is.

Stepping on a Sea Urchin. What do we do? You want me to what?

Throwing me (literally) out of your room for no reason at all! I was a joy!

I ate it so hard water skiing and without a thought you jumped in to save me "can you breathe, can you move your arms, can you move your legs, etc. etc." You always took care of me if I was hurt, choking, in need of food, or crying you were ALWAYS there for me!

New York we were 2 BIG L's at the Dixie Chicks concert. Who's idea was it to wear those hats?

When we were young and would meet for the 10:00 movie and you always made me get the refills during the previews. My bruises from movies that freaked you out, and talking in the car til 2am.

You let me sleep with you when I saw Nightmare on Elm Street. Although I quickly realized you lived in the creepy basement so I was out of there.

Dropping me off at school and cranking some gay song and throwing girl supplies out the door at me.

Lake Powell trip in the back of the Cherokee when we discovered Patsy Cline.

Monsoon "Where do I put the Beans?"

I have so many great memories with you. This is just a quick spec. I Love you and being your sister and friend has been such a blessing in my life. Thank you for standing by me, loving me, taking care of me, but most of all for being not only my big sister but my FRIEND. I LOVE YOU!

R.I.P.

2008-10-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

6/2005 - 10/2008

Dear Friend

I had a visit with my Doctor @ 3 weeks ago and she insisted that I stop drinking Monsters. After much wining and frustration. I took her advise and I quit. I really did not think it was possible. I had drank 2-3 a day for years. But, when she speaks I listen. Now, here I am 3 weeks later and Oh WOW! I cant even describe how different I feel. My skin feels smoother and looks healthier. I am so much more stable emotionally. Still OCD, and a perfectionist but I think we can count out Bi Polar and Clinical Depression. I can breathe so much better. When I ride I don't feel like I have asthma. I pop out of bed in the morning and never look back. Kinda SCARY!! For those of you thinking to yourself "I told you Dumb A**" I gotcha!

I knew it was not the healthiest thing I could do for myself , but I had no idea how bad it was until I quit. I figured I eat right, I exercise everyday, this was my rebellion if that's what you want to call it.

So here is the problem. I am so sick of water and I don't want caffeine or sugar. I am in need of a drink so lets hear some suggestions. What do you drink?

So far this is what Ive got:

Red Robin - Freckled Lemonade. Sugar, I know but have you ever tried it? YUMMMY! But, I cant have this everyday.

FUSE - Low Carb Tangerine/Grapefruit pretty good but its gone in 60 seconds.

#75 Thats my boy! Were #1! GO CARDINALS!

2008-10-20T21:22:00.000-07:00

VICTORY! I think his face says it all!

Check out the SEXY coach. Purrrrr.......Ya we hooked up after the game!

Walkers fan club! Brody and Cayli are the best brother and sister ever! What troopers, to come out and support Walker. They sit out here for 41/2 hrs every Saturday. And look at those smiles!

Yeah!!!! We beat the Eagles! 39-12. We are #1 - and UNDEFEATED! Wooo Hooo it feels GOOD! What a great game. They all played AWESOME! We are so proud. Walker has played an incredible season. Saturdays game was a HUGE one and they made him talking captain how exciting! The Ref flipped the coin, the other team called, and Walker was supposed to read. The Ref asked him what it said and he said heads (the other team called tails) it was tails. The Ref laughed and said wishful thinking. Little did he know Walker was not wearing his glasses, it was so bright and he couldn't see it! I love the smile on his face as he sits so proud in the huddle after the game. These boys were labeled by every other coach as a thrown together team of boys that weren't recruited and they figured it would take a couple of years to get it together. Well I wonder what they would say now? Undefeated with 1 game left and only one team has scored against us. Hmmmm? These boys are incredible they really are a team. They celebrate in the end zones together and they tweek stuff together and it works. I think we are the loudest crowd and I don't think I could even describe our coaches! It has been such a fun season! I will be sad to see it end! :( Cayli has been managing her High School team (GO COYOTES) and supporting her Brother she is wondering what she will do with herself after the season is over. It will be nice to see her again. We don't see her much!

FAMILY TIME

2008-10-14T11:05:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday the weather was to perfect to pass up so we took the kids on a hike. They love to Hike. We took them to South Mountain a few months ago and they had a blast. This time we took them to Hawes. Not to far and a pretty fun hike. Every time we do this we say we need to do it more often they get such a kick out of it.

We all pack our own camelbak and its funny how different they are.

Walker takes knives and shoe laces and whatever else he can squeeze in. I asked him why and he said "You just never know!" He even snuck a flashlight in Chads pack which already weighs 100lbs. Pretty funny when you are only 3 miles from your car.

Then there is Cayli who has her own homemade first aid kit that I am not to sure would pass as a carry on its so big. She informed me that she has never gone on any hike or activity without it. She is aways taking care of everyone.

Brody makes sure he has all the food he needs for life. Don't want to be without food ya know. Thank goodness cause we all get hungry. He also does not want to take a single step without holding my hand.

(Either does Chad) I feel so Loved.

Between the three of them we would be all set. Its a good thing to because I on the other hand would prefer to take nothing if I could get away with it maybe that's why they all come so prepared. Bucky comes along not sure who enjoys it more him or the kids. Chad was giving him water out of his pack and Walker warned him over and over "Dad hes gonna puke" well sure enough he puked and puked. Apparently you should only give him a sip at a time, Walker then informed us. Thanks Walker we will defiantly remember that next time. Why does it seem that there is just always so much going on that you just don't do things like this often enough. Its free, NO electronics or phones just us laughing and playing, enjoying nature all within a few miles of our house. Good times!!!!

MOM vs WALKER

2008-10-10T11:50:00.000-07:00

So let me start by bragging about Walker for a minute. Its football season and what fun it is. Walker got moved up this year to Pee Wee and at first we were like WOW those kids are huge. Walker knew it was going to be a tuff go, and he was really going to have to work his butt off to be a starter. Well hard work pays off, he starts first string offense every game and is doing awesome! He has had a few go's at Defense and I am sure more to come as his career continues. Even better his team is currently #1 in the league undefeated with no points scored against them. I as his biggest fan cant sit on the side! I have to be constantly mobile in don't talk to me mode screaming my head off. No voice left after every game. In fact I actually shed a tear when they scored their first touchdown in the last game. Seriously, has it come to this? Oh it gets worse! I started talking trash to Walker and then got this idea that I could fit into all his extra stuff so what does Shawna do? Yep! We set a day "Tuesday you better bring it" Well we brought it!
Yep, that's ME and Walker he is the one without a Jersey because his mom was in trash talk mode and left to meet at the park, so he was on his own and his jersey was in the drier! Oops snap out of it Shawna so we sent Brody for it. (Mom or the enemy cant keep it straight! ) It was supposed to be me against Walker with Chad as the coach! Well it ended up being me and 4 not so little 12 year olds (in pads)! Can you say O Crap! They just started multiplying like Gremlins. Other big mistake Chad coaching. What was I thinking? He was on me like stink on .....! He brought his whistle and was all in my face. I was so bruised and sore it was AWESOME! It was so worth it! We will absolutely be doing it again! We hit and we ran sooo much. It was funny chasing Walker and him looking at me with that O Crap face just before I took him down. Although, I think he got to see the face on me a few more times than I did on him! These are the memories that I hope will last forever!

BIG BEAR OR BUST

2008-10-08T09:24:00.000-07:00

So it was time for Chad and I to take our annual trip to San Bernardino for Glen Helen. But, thanks to the new line up Glen Helen was changed to the opener in May instead of the final in September. What a bummer! This was the best trip ever it would have been year #5. Good Memories! But, even still it was trip time and we were going Glen Helen or Not! So with bikes on top and the small trunk of the Mazda loaded with camping gear we headed out. Big Bear was the destination. I LOVE to not have a plan! We knew where we were going, and what we wanted to do when we got there. But, had no idea where we would be sleeping. It is the best way to travel. We call it living like a Gypsy. We found a great spot at the base of the mountian to pitch our tent. We rode our bikes to the lift put in @ 30+ miles of riding by day and cooked dinner and had a camp fire by night. What more could we ask for? (Well maybe a shower!) It was beautiful, fun, the best Mountain biking yet, and we saw a deer on the trail that just doesnt happen in AZ! I love Chad soooooo much. I ask myself everyday "What did I do to deserve him?" I am so glad he makes these things possible for us. He made this trip happen! Thanks Babe!

SUMMER FUN

2008-10-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

The Kids are not getting any younger. We figured we had better get back to Disneyland again before they get to big and then Magic Mountain is the request. So we bagged Mexico this year and headed to Cali.! It was so much fun Walker and I finally got to surf - Oh My Gosh! What a blast! I did not want to leave and have been dying to go back since. We also did Disney for 2 days.

Watching them made me want to PUKE!

Goofy is a good representation of our family!

The funnest ride was the Toy Story ride and wearing these cool glasses made it extra COOL!

Cayli enjoyed her time in the sun checkin out the Boys!
Walker surfed for 2 days and his face had completely peeled off. Note to self RE-APPLY!
They set up a 4 square and played forever!

Huntington! I would live there for the summer and Surf everyday if I could!
Brody was king boogie! We couldn't get him out of the water.

When we could get him out it was all about sand art.

This is me waxing my board. How stinkin cool! Surfing is something I have wanted to do my whole life. I still cant let go of the Blue Crush dream. I got to surf for 2 days and it was AWESOME! I cant wait to go back. Maybe next time I can have a smaller board. We all have to start somewhere right!