Friendly Competition

Nate and I are always trying to motivate ourselves to lose weight and it usually comes down to competitions. Our latest weight loss competition, which began today, involves a good amount of spending money, so I'm feeling quite motivated right now. For the past few months, I've been really good about not spending on "wants," so I'm ready to win this!

When I win, I plan on moving all of the decor & bedding in Paige's room into Kate's room (which has almost nothing in it) and re-doing Paige's room. I can't wait! I plan on copying one of the following rooms (on a budget of course), and I'd love some input. Which one is your favorite?

ROOM #1

I really love this one.

ROOM #2ROOM #3ROOM #4

ROOM #5This one is way outside of my comfort zone, but it would be so fun!

Really delicious

Broccoli, Cheese & Potato Soup

2-3 bunches fresh broccoli
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup butter
1/2 flour
4 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
1.5 teaspoons salt
2 cups grated cheddar
6 chopped small red potatos
(I ALSO ADDED SOME CUBED CHICKEN)

Cook broccoli and potato just until tender. Do not overcook. Drain and cut into small pieces; set aside. Saute chopped onion in the 1/4 cup butter; set aside. In a large saucepan or soup pot prepare a white sauce; melt the 1/2 cup butter over medium heat, then stir in flour until well blended. Gradually stir in milk, chicken broth, and salt. Stir constantly until mixture reaches a boil. Cook 1-2 mintues until thickened. Add broccoli, potato and onion. Stir in cheese. Cook briefly over medium heat. Avoid bringing to a boil. Serve immediately or keep warm over low heat. Makes 6-8 servings.

Welcome Home Elder Carver

We got to spend last weekend with my family because my "little" brother Trevor got home from his mission to Mexico City. It was great to see him and to have all of us together. We had a blast! We love you Trevor!!

Nate was taking this photo.

Paige decided to jump in on this one.

Paige and her cousin, Tripp.

My little sister Stephanie and Emily's baby Avery.

Paige and her cousin Rowan.

Kate is 1!

Kate turned one year old on Saturday the 12th. She weighs 18 lbs 14 oz and is 29 inches tall. Such a petite girl! I shouldn't be too surprised though, since she was only 5 lb 12 oz when she was born.

She is walking everywhere lately and she is finally starting to say a few things, like Uh oh, No, Mama, and Dada.

She loves Paige. I'm surprised how much they play together. Paige is really good at keeping her busy for me and it helps a lot.

We celebrated her birthday with my family last week, which was really fun. This is Kate eating Pineapple Pudding Cake. Yum!

Kate is walking

Beautiful day

It's a pretty nice day today, so me and the girls went for a walk with our new wagon. (Thanks, Mom and Dad!) It's an early birthday present for Kate. Can you believe she will be 1 next week? Me neither.

Just walking around