2014 Wrap Up

I'm not sure if it's the photo collages that take up too much time, or the fact that my photos in general are less amazing.  (Since straying from the iPhone, I'll admit, I have been less satisfied with the ease of a camera in my pocket).  Alas, I've let the rest of the year go by without anything really interesting to show for it.  Quite honestly, there wasn't a lot going on.  The holidays were fantastic, with a visit from my brother Dave and a turn around visit for me to Arizona. A few weeks and then Christmas with the Morrell's.  And now, here we are - with New Year's upon us.

A little update of our family:

Mark is enjoying his time over at the Utah Jazz organization.  He is working as a VIP manager there, specifically over the suite holders and maintaining their relationship with the Jazz organization.  Its a busy job that lets him exercise his customer service expertise daily.  He is currently writing a second book, which will be entirely his own book about leadership techniques and traits.  He is serving diligently as the Young Men's President for our ward and trying to pick up his Basketball skills again.  He enjoys reading, attending/watching sporting events, and being with his family.

Kaylinn (I) am still loving being at home with Cameron.  I really do try to focus most of my energy and time into raising him.  We have "preschool time" where we sing songs, read books, color, play with play dough, and "exercise" to keep our bodies healthy.  On days when I am not so productive, I like to watch "Reality" TV, scrapbook, sew, write cards to friends, and read.  I serve as the Primary Music Director in the ward and never paid enough tribute to those who have served before me. (It's a LOT of work!)

Cameron is our perfect little child.  We knew we struck gold when first saw his face, and watching him grow has been a daily confirmation of what a blessing it is to have him.  He is a fan of all things Disney.  Refers to Mickey as "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" in all settings.  Has a very strict diet of Peanut Butter and Honey sandwiches, Mac and Cheese, Chicken Nuggets, and chocolate milk.  All other foods are a struggle with his 2 year old opinions.  Really doesn't like meat of any kind.  Addicted to any screen; that's been fun.  Completely Potty Trained! Can count 1-20, knows all the big and little alphabet letters, and has 3 scriptures memorized. AND - has recently started praying on his own. Not going to lie - I'm super proud. Loves his Uncle Tom, and cousins Carter, Spencer, and Bennett.  And the Bouche boys.  Loves going to the park and riding the "blue car" around the neighborhood...there is so much.  Suffice it to say that the is delightfully fun and I love him.

Although the end of the year left my blog high and dry, I do want to continue doing it.  (I'm aiming at 6 per month next year)  It helps in my scrapbooking and keeps my memories strait.  I am beyond excited for a new year to start and all the "freshness" it brings.  I love my happy, happy family and pray that the Lord will bless us with more in 2015.

All Hallows Eve

We had a perfectly fun (and really normal) halloween holiday!  There aren't any really fun stories to tell; but suffice it to say that it was really fun. This was Cameron's first year where he really understood what was going on and what I was explaining to him.  He knew he was dressing up as a "Yo-Ho Pirate" and that he would be getting treats!  So, that was very fun.

Our ward threw the traditional "Trunk-Or-Treat" to kick off the Halloween season.  My boy danced and danced to the music almost all night long! I was actually surprised; I didn't know dancing was really in his bucket of tricks.  Public dancing has been off mine since High School!

We carved pumpkins the week of halloween in an effort to ensure their "health" on Halloween night.  They turned out really great this year.  I, for one, am very much a quick pumpkin carver.  Finding the easiest pattern and just whipping it up.  Mark, on the other hand, is far more artistic and patient.  This year he tried Batman in a cave, shaving off the cave portion of the pumpkin so the light glowed through it.  (This picture was his trial run; he went back and shaved a little more so the "cave" glowed really great)  And Cameron went for the "yo-ho pirate"; no surprise there.  Sadly, the pumpkins only lasted about a day before they were wilted and gross.  We can't win everything.

Halloween night was really fun too.  WE invited a few neighboring friends to join us on our driveway for Chili, bread, music, and trick-or-treaters.  It was really perfect weather and perfectly fun. Getting to socialize with all the other neighborhood members as they took their kids around.  We learned this tradition while we were with friends in California and hope to continue it each year when the weather permits.

So there you go.  It was indeed a very happy halloween.  And I am determined that NEXT YEAR I really will dress up.  I always intend to but then wait until the very last minute to try and find something in my closet.  Never works.  Next year though...just wait and see.

Walt Disney World

As if there aren't enough pictures on the inter-web of this family and their Disney obsession, here is yet another post depicting our love of the Disney Parks! We sure do love them and aren't afraid to spend all our vacation time there! What made this trip even more exciting was that my mom and Joe agreed to join us on our adventures.  We sure did LOVE everything about our trip and can't wait to go again.  So, if you've got some time on your hands, I give you our Disneyworld vacation in oh-too-many pictures.

We stayed at the Saratoga Spring Resort right there on property. Mark spent a lot of his time working at this resort during his College Program days, so he was in deja-vu a lot! We scored a delightful 2 bedroom "villa" which allowed us our own private space yet to be together. The only way to travel in my opinion.

Day 1: EPOCT and Le Cellier Steakhouse: One word-epic.  I don't usually go to Epcot as our first park on the trip; but dining reservations forced us to have it no other way.  I have always loved the World Showcase and meandering through the countries.  We had the disney dining plan again, so we made a stop in at the steakhouse in the Canada pavilion. Holy moly worth it a thousand times over.  It costs 2 dinners on your plan but I'd do it again in a heartbeat. So delicious.

Day 2: Hollywood Studios. Highlights included Mark getting me on Tower of Terror even though I dislike that ride. Catching all Cameron's favorite Pixar characters. And seeing the Home Alone crowbar. Our dining reservations here wasn't anything to shout about, so we'll just breeze over it without much mention.  We ate.

Day 3: The Magic Kingdom: This was a packed day! Since our last visit 5 years ago, the Magic Kingdom has gone under a ton of improving construction.  Specifically, the Haunted Mansion que and Fantasyland. The new Seven Dwarfs mine car had just opened the month before, so we snagged us some fast passes and took a ride on that.  It was a GREAT roller coaster but in my opinion, not worth more than at 15 minute wait.  The 90+ standby line is really not worth it.  We also enjoyed the new Be Our Guest restaurant for our dining choice; fantastic. Although "the grey stuff" isn't all that delicious; my chocolate cupcake was a much better option.

Day 4: Resort day and resting. Swimming and naps had by all.  Much needed and super delightful. Cameron became so much more confident in the pool, I just loved watching him try to motor himself around in the water. Too cute.

Day 5: Animal Kingdom. This is by far my least favorite of the 4 parks.  I'm not sure if this feeling came because I spent so much of my time working here during my college program days; or if it is just the park as a whole that doesn't suite my fancy. Whatever it is, we only spent the morning here and then headed back to the resort for more swimming and resting.  We hit up the Hoop De Doo Review that night and had a hoot of a time there. Yummy BBQ and really fun entertainment.

Day 6: Magic Kingdom. We spent our last day in Orlando visiting our favorite park of them all.  Ate a ton as we used up the rest of our dining plan meals, and just relaxed as we saw whatever we felt like. And I must mention that our good friends the Marcums who now live in Tampa made the trip up to visit us while we were there. It's always great to get together with old friends and renew those ties. Loves.  This was just a super fun trip and we can't wait to go again!

October - Check

Welp - so much for my blogging goals this month.  My priority list shifted a bit and blogging got bumped down the line.  It happens.  So here is a quick re-cap of the month we've enjoyed.

- I've been sewing like a champion this month!  Christmas gifts this year are almost down with everyone's family accounted for! I am loving how they are all turning out.  I've spent most of my sewing hours down in Orem with my Mother-In-Law.  I have truly loved my time there and how our relationship just gets better.

- I started making my own Laundry Soap.  Say what? that's right folks. After reading ump-teenth million blog posts about it, and seeing it on my Pinterest board too many times, I decided to make the plunge.  And, wouldn't you know, I LOVE it.  It took a round of Laundry to really decide that it is great being that there is a whole make it and shake it process involved.  But now that it's been a month, I agree with all the blog posts out there; it really does smell better. It feels cleaner.  And it is LOADS cheaper. (no pun intended.)

- We started prepping for our first Say ChEARS Foundation Christmas.  We've shifted the focus slightly in that now we are going to gift our Disney themed gifts to deserving families every Christmas.  (they will actually experience them during the year). Which means that it is coming up quick!  It'll be a small year being that we just launched, but we are so excited to have our first one. A thanks to everyone who has donated. There will be updates and reports on the family we gift on our website to come.

- Cameron is potty trained! It was a rough go for mom, but he really was a champ. By far the most patience trying time yet; but he got it and now we're out of diapers.  Party on y'all.

- Halloween is just around the corner! I'm a little worried it'll be too cold for Cameron's adorable Pirate get up; but we're braving the weather and we're going to celebrate come what may. Thanks to my sister for sending her son's costume bits. Made my job easy.

- I quit my Tell Me the Stories gig.  Honestly, it was a fantastic run.  I got 14 stories done for Cameron's collection and really boosted my confidence in art and teaching.  So-despite the fact that my only 2 sales were my to sister and Mark's friend; it was a nice thought none the less.

- There is some shifting going on over at the Jazz organization (where Mark works) which is proving to be very interesting. There hasn't been any decisions yet, but there is a ton of dust in the air.  I'm interested to see what it looks like when the dust settles.

- We adopted a dog. That is a shocker, to me especially.  I am not a pet person; so when the whole dog thing came up - I was shocked.  Even more shocked that it was suggested by - yours truly. I know. But, she had been living at my in-laws for her whole life, and we felt that she could be loved on and played with better with us.  So-we brought her home.  So far, it's been a nice fit.  I'm still not totally confident with her, but she'll lick you to death before she is at all dangerous.  So, that's been fun.

- I know it's really early, but I have been seriously considering homeschooling my little ones. (assuming the Lord blesses me with more someday). I can't say I'm totally shocked, it is something I love to do; school and teaching; curriculum and worksheets; learning and fun.  Plus, I would love to spend the short 16 years left I have with my son as much as possible.  And, excuse my tangent, but I have a serious dream about running a "neighborhood home school" out of my house someday.  The end.

I still love my calling at church, primary music director.  It's awesome. I love my neighborhood and ward friends. Seriously, like I never want to move. I am happy, healthy, and things are good.

Off to November.

The Farm

Alright y'all.  Back to blogging.  Don't hold your breath but, I have goals.  So - we're off to a start on this, the first day of the month. 

We were blessed with the chance to spend some time up with Uncle Tom at the farm this summer.  And it was delightful as usual.  I'm not sure how it happened, but now going to the farm equates with "junk food weekend." And we love it.  We dine at Moore's Cafe or Maddox, have bowls of "gaming food" like M&M's and Twizzlers, and always make Granny's Frosties.  This time around I made a Pinterest find, Salted Carmel Cookies.  Yes, they too were yummo.  Sure, we leave feeling fat and sick, but in the moment, it's totally worth it!

 This particular time around, Mark's project was working on the water pipe that had broke in the shed. I laughed as I sat in the recliner and supervised while Mark relived his Pool Man days.  He does a good job!  Sad that we didn't have a onsie for him to work in.  Gramps always worked in a onsie and the boys sort of loved that.

I also ventured to a new corner of the farm and found a huge collection of cars in what appeared to be a car graveyard.  No, these didn't belong to gramps, but rather an uncle who inherited the property after Gramps died.  And now, here they sit.  All old and abandoned.  Be still my history heart.

We sure love our time at the farm and are planning on stopping by again before the snow hits.  Delightful.

August to October

People.  Am I the only one here that feels like September didn't happen.  I honestly feel like we had August, and then I blinked and it is now October.  Say WHAT?  This year will go down in history as the year with only 11 months.  (Which is sad. Because I really like September.)

In all honesty, we have lived this month, and I WILL have the blog posts to show it.  (Just late, per usual) They will include our most fantastic trip to Orlando, which took up a huge chunk of the month, visits with my favorite cousins and aunt, preschool began, and my new 100% scripture study which has been awesome. And of course an update of the little one who gets more and more fantastic every day.  Can someone stop the clock?  At this rate he'll be 18 before I know it.

So there you have it internet world. I amuse myself thinking anyone in that big world out there reads this.  I lost a month of my life. It's gone and I can't get it back.  So here's to October. May it be as stellar as I anticipate.

A Big Deal

I won't lie, these past few months, and these next several months are pretty epic in the lives of the Morrell Bunch.  There are a few things in our pocket that will be unfolding in the next several months which are awesome.  Plus, the launching of the Foundation was a huge milestone that we are loving; and on it's heels was Mark being published in his first book.  It's entitled "Entrepreneurs on Fire; Conversations with Visionary Leaders"  Cool right?

The book is a series of interviews with those who have broken the mold of Corporate America.  The first chapter is by Barbara Corcoran who gives some really inspiring insight about how to tap into your own power.  

Mark is the third chapter and he talks about the lessons he learned from his Disney managing experience.  He has been titled the #1 Expert in creating systems and processes to help people and companies succeed.  His chapter really taps into the ideas of pursuing the Power of You.  And it is inspirational and awesome.  {No biased opinion there I'm sure}

The best part is, this book has reminded Mark of his passion for writing.  And what better thing to write about and share with the world than some of the tips that he has learned from his time with The Mouse?  He loves it.  And, he is Really good at it.  So - cheers to our FIRST book publishing milestone; but certainly not our last.  

Love that man of mine.

AND - bonus...if you'd like a copy of this book, you can buy it directly from Mark for a cheaper price than Amazon sells it.  :) He is selling it through Etsy so go there if you want a copy.

{GET YOUR COPY OF ENTREPRENEURS ON FIRE HERE}

A portion of each sale goes to The Say ChEARS Foundation.

Family History Lessons

Have I had quite the education these last several weeks!  I have never really been able to get into my family history; mostly because I am of the syndrome "my grandmother's have done it all".  AND - let's be honest here, I haven't really ever tried super hard.  BUT - all that changed these last few weeks after our trip to Nauvoo uncovered a bit that I didn't know about.

I had always known that my father's side held Pioneer stories.  That was basically the extent of my knowledge. So, when we visited Nauvoo and discovered the home Jonathan Calkins Wright, you better believe my history heart came alive with curiosity.  Jonathan is my 3rd Great Grandfather and has an interesting story line that led him to Nauvoo and into Joseph Smith's circle of friends.  He then crossed the plains to Salt Lake and soon found himself settled in Brigham City Utah. What I didn't know was the treasure trove I had just uncovered. 

Fast forward to last week.  My husband's family also has roots in Brigham City, Utah.  They were basically the pioneers that came with President Snow, under the direction of Brigham Young, to settle the new area.  Mark has an uncle who has been commissioned by the Mayor to do an extensive history of the area. Consequently, he is a wealth of knowledge and offers history tours of the city to passers by.  We were just so lucky to schedule a private tour just for us.  He took us all over to town showing us some key points of interest.  Starting with our very personal history.

 {1}  First stop was the now abandoned building that served as the hospital where Mark's father was born.  Say what? Abandoned?  Yes, and I totally wanted to go and explore.  But didn't.  Next up {3} Clyde's boyhood home where many summers were spent on those steps playing pickled waters.  A game I have no idea how to play.  And then, a surprise to me for sure was the trip to the high school where the Morrell name has been immortalized forever.  {2} Outstanding boy in 1966? Clyde Morrell.  Way to go pops!

We then learned quite a hefty load about the 3rd Great Grandpa Alvin Nichols and his history in Brigham City.  We saw some homes he lived in, the pasture where he did his farming, and the land he once owned that is now the home of many of his descendants.  We then hopped over to the graveyard to see where they are all buried.  

{This is where the tour got really interesting}

We found the graves of Alvin Nichols.  It was a square marker with the names of each of his wives on one side.  And who is one of his wives? A lady by the name of Charlotte Wright.  (dun, dun, dun).  Just a stone throw away was the grave of Jonathan Calkin's Wright.  This suddenly sparked my interest, so I asked Uncle David what the connection was.  And yes, Charlotte Wright was Jonathan Calkin Wright's daughter.  Can you put that genealogy chart together in your head?  I'm not going to spell it out for you right here, but there IS a polygamist line in there.  That is important to mention.  

Uncle David showed us Charlotte's house (below). and across the street was where Brigham Young gave his final public address 10 days before he died.  

So there you go.  A history lesson that sparked my interest way back in Nauvoo and led to a connection that I never expected.  Let's give it up for small towns eh? Cuz at this point, there is no going back.  {This last statement will make no sense if you haven't made the connection - the one that I'm not going to admit here. If you really are THAT curious ~ give me a shout out and I'll spell it out for ya. Again - there IS a polygamist line in there...let's not forget that point! Please. :)}

Obsession

I am sure not all people can say that have a TV family obsession.  In fact, I am sure that this is probably reaching an unhealthy level.  But - I'm coming out with it and embracing it in it's fullness.  I am obsessed with the Duggar family. (as seen on TLC's 19 Kids and Counting).  There are so many things about this family that I just love! Firstly, just as people in general, I think they are fantastic. I'd love to be their friends.  Secondly, their values are tremendously inspiring. Although they are not members of my faith, they follow similar values which I admire. Thirdly, they have 19 kids.  AND here is the bombshell; I want 20 kids.  As many as the Lord would bless me with, I'd joyfully take them. So that is cool to me.  I desperately want to sit in a room with Michelle and just listen to her talk.  So yes, I'm obsessed.

Fast forward to yesterday.  My sister is visiting Northwest Arkansas.  I know, not a place people usually go, but she is there. AND - because she loves me more than words can express, she stalked the street where the Duggar's house is and drove past for a photo op.  excuse me? Yes.  She made a little drive just for me to sit here and take a picture.  Isn't she fantastic.  She even said that a Duggar came into view and was driving the golf cart!  Be still my obsessed heart!

So - a quadruple thanks to my lovely sista and her feeding of my obsession.  Mark my words internet world; some day I will have my pretty little face in a photo just like this.  Don't mind me Duggar's, I'm just holding a stake out until my cup fillith over.  :)

For the first time in forever

Yes, I just used a "Frozen" line to title my post.  Let the record show I am not as obsessed with this film as the majority of Americans.  That being said, it does fit perfectly with how I feel this day went.

I had a great day.  Simply awesome.  Why you ask?  Well, because - for the first time in forever, I capitalized on the fact that I don't have an employer, I had a car to my disposal, and I could do whatever I wanted.  For my whole life, I always had to make plans on weekends; and even now am constantly aware of my husbands work schedule and when we can and can not play.  Well, with him being out of town, I decided on a  whim to drive up to the Golden Spike Historic Site.  I have wanted to go since moving here, and for the first time in forever, I actually realized that I could just go!

So, on a random Friday, I loaded up the boy and a few snacks and headed north. And, as a totally unexpected bonus, Uncle Tom decided to join us!

 This was a totally lack-luster historic site.  So many stories about this little 45 minute stop that I could fill a whole page.  A few favorite highlights included:
** the tour group just before us was full of Historical Society Senior citizens.  They were super helpful! Never in my life have so many strangers approached me to tell me about what I needed to do.  The platforms behind the trains was the most frequent tip.  Tom and I couldn't help but smile.
** The platforms. Not sure why everyone acted like thy were the best thing ever.  They are there to help you look into the locomotive.  Um - pretty sure I've been inside several trains at other historic places. So-looking into the cabin wasn't that exciting.
** Trains vs. locomotive.  I was corrected a few times by the gentleman reenacting some historic part.  I was telling Cameron, "isn't this a cool train?" and the man, looking around in wonder, exclaimed - "where is a train? There aren't any trains here. This is a locomotive".  Oh - my bad.
** NOTHING was historic.  The entire site, from railway ties to "trains" to the golden spike was all reproduced "look alikes"  The whole place was a farce.
** The plaques spoke of "a booming train depot with several ruffians who preyed on the train passengers." There were restaurants, hotels, saloons, and communities all up in these hills.  My thought - where are the remnants of this "booming town".  There wasn't so much as a foundation or a stone to show of any type of town.  How is that there are deserted ghost towns all over America and yet there isn't one single anything here to show there was life.  It all seemed very strange.
** You're not suppose to climb or even touch the locomotives.  Being that we arrived just after the demonstration ended, we were left alone with the locomotives right at the end of our visit.  Not even a ranger to supervise us.  Hence the illegal but DARLING photo of Cameron on the train.  ehem-locomotive.

We laughed and laughed at the whole day.  It was a bit of a drive into the middle of nothingness to get there, so it was funny when it was so - blah.  But I LOVED it.  And I loved that I could just pick up and go without any obligations to attend to for someone else.  I love that part of my life.  And I have finally just grasped the reality and coolness of this.  I feel like many more day trips and road trips may be in my future!

B.T. dubs- Isn't my kid like crazy photogenic.  Seriously.  I need to get him connecting with a modeling agency.  Start monetizing this cuteness.

Foundation

Have your read { THIS POST } about our Foundation and the fun that we are starting?  Please take  a moment to check out our cause and if you can spare a few dollars, please donate to our cause.  We are really excited about launching our first event in a few weeks, and hope that we will have a great turn out of support and excitement for what we are devoting our lives to doing.

And if you can, please

{ Click Here to Spread the ChEAR } 

Independence Day 2014

 Happy 4th of July folks! My ALL-TIME favorite holiday.  I love being an American and celebrating our freedom's as a country.  It's the one day that we all come together - and I just love that.  This year, we were in Iowa for the 4th, so we got to celebrate it with my family!  Awesome.

The ladies of the bunch started the day off with a "bang" as we ran in the annual Cedar Rapids 5K.  Big props to my mother who made the jog for the entire 3.1 miles. We laughed when the announcer said that there were division awards and mom says "I might have a chance, how many 60 year old women are doing this?"  She's a healthy lady and I love that about her.  And - happy day for me, I made my goal..well, I was 42 seconds behind my goal.  If I hadn't walked that one stop light intersection! A great race with my lady friends.

We then enjoyed a fairly lazy afternoon before heading over to a local park for the BBQ and evening activities.  We have 4 July birthday's, all really close together, so we celebrated with cake and ice cream along with the typical BBQ day treats.  Lesley made this amazing Raspberry salad that was like Ice Cream, but healthy.  I told Cameron it was ice cream just to get him to eat it, and he gobbled it right up.  Soon, all the other mother's were using my lie to get their kids to eat it up. Seriously though, it tasted like ice cream. yummy.

After Dinner, we sent the kids and grandparents over to the park while the adults sat under the tree and chatted.  (except for the photographer, I was with the kids).  It is so wonderful to see your kids and your siblings kids play together with Grandma and Grandpa.  I love how active and healthy my mom and step-dad are, that they can take an active role in their grandkids lives. It is inspiring to me and makes me want to do the same.

After a rowdy time at the playground, it was time for a Cheney vs. Wright baseball game. Several of the Cheney kids were there as well to celebrate their Father's birthday, so it made for a perfect number of people to play a perfect American game.  And we had so much fun.  As the photographer, I laughed and laughed at what we all looked like while hitting the ball.  Tessa was THE BEST ugly hitter with me coming in at a close second. I guess us Wright girls were not meant to be batters. And of course, mom was there with all the kiddos just oozing her love and attention onto them.  And they loved it!

Finally, the sun started to set and we broke out the fireworks and sparklers.  Joe and the dad's went onto home plate to set off tons of fireworks, while we sat in the bleachers and ooh over their bright colors and popping sounds.  The kids were enchanted with the sparklers; Cory couldn't get them lit fast enough!

 And as the grande finale, we sent off Floating Lanterns into the dark night sky.  This was certainly an adventure that sounded better than it actually turned out to be.  It was quite the feat to get the wax wick started, and then get the balloon part filled with enough hot air to get it to go.  Once they went, it was so romantic and really beautiful in a way.  We got about 10 or 12 up with only about 8 causalities.  So, it was more successful than I thought.  Sadly, it was so late, that the little girls had fallen asleep and didn't catch the "Tangled" reference.

 A perfect 4th of July celebration for my memory book.  How I love my family and that I got to spend time with them.  So grateful for my Independence that I am able to worship my God freely, that I am able to dress and eat and live in the manner that I want.  And that all are allowed the same privilege in this great promised land.  God Bless America!

Home Sweet Home

Remember why back when I mentioned that we moved and I'd post some pictures of my house?  Well, wait no longer my friends, 'cuz it is finally here!  I took this pictures shortly after we got settled, and promptly let them sit on the computer until now.  The good news is, I've updated the decor in my kitchen.  The bad news, it doesn't look like this anymore. But you get the gist of it all.

I really love the layout of this house.  I especially love the backyard.  I love that it is fenced and that it has lots of lush greenery, and it's just awesome.  I love the open feel, and the big kitchen. I love that the owners let me paint the wall in the family room.  That part is probably my favorite even today.  I love how much more spacious it feels than the townhouse we left.  But what I love most about my home is who I share it with. *wink, wink* Yup - I just used that in a sentence.

My Buddy

As all babes do, this lad is growing up.  He is so much fun to have around, I thank the Lord everyday for blessing me with him.  We celebrated his 2nd birthday at the beginning of the month, and although it was a very small affair, he sure hasn't missed the fun benchmarks that at 2 year old displays.

- In a big boy bed! And loves it so much.  He is an abnormally perfect child in that he never climbed out of his crib, and now he doesn't get out of his bed until Mom or Dad come to get him.  He will pop out for a moment to get more books, but then jump right back in.  It's funny to go in before we go to bed and see him riddled with books all around, fast asleep.  Darling.

- Picky eater!  I am lucky if I get anything healthy down his throat. I even tried to trick him with the gummy vitamins. Nope; he is not interested. Next step, juicing.  I'm going to win this battle if its the last thing I do!

- Prefers a shower over a bath.  Really? How is he getting so grown up.  He likes to stand in the water, especially with it pouring right on his head.

- Talks up a storm; and learns new words every day. Right now, we are trying to un-teach "Holy Crap" and "mine". It's a bit tricky.

- Loves the Disney Jr. app. Especially Big Block Sing Songs.  And will often be excited about Little Einsteins.  Loves the Pirates song, Small World, Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, and "mommy's song" from Toy Story.

- Calls everyone "friends". He rarely knows anyones name but always will yell over to them, "hey friends..." Loves his Nursery "friends" (teachers), and the neighbor "friends", (mostly their backyard play set).

- Enjoys errands. Will often ask if we are going to "Costco?" "Target?" "Grocery Store", or "WalMart?" Goes to show where we spend most of our errand time.

- Is a fan of reading books, scripture time, school time & his school mat, cars, outside, park, bike rides, splash pad, nursery, coloring, puzzles, his brown shoes, and pirate shirt.

Couldn't be more in love with this little boy.  So grateful the Lord blessed me to be a momma!

The Say ChEARS Foundation

Hello all who visit here.  I know the traffic I get on my blog is minimal, but I'm pretty excited about this chapter of my life.  So - being that you are here, I suspect you are somewhat interested in me, and therefore, I'd like to extend an invitation.

I am proud to announce that today, 7.25.14, my husband and I are launching our Non-Profit Organization called The Say ChEARS Foundation.  The foundation is a group of people who have been inspired by the vision of Walt Disney, and wish to share that dream and vision with deserving families everywhere.  There are so many souls who are selfless, giving, inspiring human beings who deserve a little something that they can not give to themselves. We, as a foundation, would like to find these people and gift them with an all expenses paid, Disney vacation.

Please watch our Introductory video to catch a glimpse of our vision:

We rely on the support of every community to help us make these dreams a reality.  Please support our cause by going to our Go Fund Me Now website and donating. {see below}  We will take whatever you are willing to give; $1.00 or $1,000!

I couldn't be more excited about the future of this Foundation and all the hope, joy, and inspiration that we are going to bring to hundreds of families' lives.  Be apart of our cause and help us start to spread the ChEAR.

{ Click HERE to Spread the ChEAR }

Sincerely,
The Founders

Mark & Kaylinn Morrell
Kevin Clayson
John Marshall

Nauvoo Review

With the launching of the Foundation tomorrow (that's crazy exciting) my Nauvoo post has been delayed.  But, wait no more my friends, here is our photo blog of our fantastic trip to Nauvoo. 

I wrote on my "50 before 50 To Do" list back in 2007 that I wanted to go to Nauvoo.  I have always wanted to go there.  It has great historic significance to my faith. {Explore THIS WEBSITE to learn of the connection between The Church of Jesus Christ and Nauvoo} AND it just is a lot of history all in one place.  So - that makes me happy.  

First off, the drive to Nauvoo from Iowa.  Holy beautiful my friend.  And I'm pretty sure we passed a few abandoned houses that I was DYING to stop and walk through.  I'll never forgive myself for not. And the livestock that the semi's were carrying.  I defiantly felt like a sense of gratitude for the farmers and wide open spaces in America.

Upon arriving to the historic city, we jumped right into seeing the sites.  I only had about 24 hours total so we made a point to have a very productive experience. We saw the Joseph Smith Homestead & Grave site, Red Brick Store, & Blacksmith first.  I was lovin' the prairie diamonds that they gave away.  I remember Tabitha had one when we were kids but not once did I know that it was here where it came from.  Very cool.

 We went to see how bricks were made, saw an incredible thunder storm, and went to the visitor center to book some tickets for the next day's wagon ride and such.  I was inspired by those who were serving missions there as docents and performers.  Mostly because I could see myself doing that someday.  I just love history too much to not be immersed in it completely.

 The next morning, we made the short drive over to Carthage, where the prophet was martyred.  Such a neat experience there.  Not at all what I was thinking it was going to be; not worse by any means, just different.  And awesome.  There is certainly a special spirit about this place and all those who come to reverence this great man.

 Later that day we met up with Tessa and her family on this beautiful hill with the Rebuilt Nauvoo temple behind us.  Totally awesome.  And we wore our Reunion shirts which I thought were really cute and clever.  They all say "made with the Wright stuff".  hehe.

 A few more touristy trips around the town wrapped up our day.  I spent most of the second day touring the houses and walking the trail of hope down to the Mississippi.  Which made me think of the Broadway play "Big River".  Another great love.

I was in love with Nauvoo. Just in love with it.  So much so that I hope I can go and visit it again sometime.  We did it so quick, that we sadly missed a whole bunch.  Only at the tail end of our trip did I learn about Jonathan Coulson Wright who had a home that is still standing in Nauvoo, and was my Great, Great grandfather.  He was good friend with the prophet and his brother Hyrum.  Was baptized by Hyrum, and travelled across he plains with the Saints to settle in Brigham City and play a very significant role in politics there.  I need to look more into that.

Promo Video

Have you gone over { HERE} and seen this video yet?  Have you signed up for our Notification list?  This is something that will most assuredly affect millions of lives. And I could not be more excited about it! Support us in creating something epic.

SOMETHING EPIC

Dear World:

There is something I haven't been telling you.  Mostly because, I wasn't in a place to be able to speak much about it.  I've been working with some close friends for the last 6 months making our dreams into a reality, and now - coming on 7.25.14 - our dream will be presented to the world.  And by doing so, we will be allowed to make others dreams become realities.  It's going to be epic and I can not wait another moment for it to finally be here.

Slide over to this website for our first teaser to what it all is.  Do me a HUGE favor and sign up for our notification list.  We know this is going to be a great force for creating hope, joy, and inspiration to hundreds of families over the next years.

Don't miss the start of this epic experience. Click the hyperlink below and be a part of it all.

Get Ready to Spread the ChEAR!

We are Family

I seriously am in love with my family.  I am so blessed to have such a great relationship with all of them.  And I am beyond grateful for the chance we had to all get together for a whole week.  Oh the joy of reunions.  I was gifted with the responsibility of planning the whole shin dig, and I must say, it was epic and amazing.  Hala!

I've got to put this post into 2 parts.  Part 2 will be our trip to Nauvoo, which is an experience all by itself.  But for now, here is a little photo sampling of our time together.

This year, our reunion was held in the great state of Iowa! I won't lie, I had no idea what to expect in going to this mid-western state; and was surprised with how much I fell in love with its georgous rolling hills, large lots and farm houses, and green, green everywhere.  It made me laugh - my nephew (from Arizona) commented upon stepping out from the airport doors "it looks like a golf course!"  Yes, yes it did. And it was beautiful.

So, enough about the landscape. Our time together was marvelous.  Once we finally arrived - a feat in and of itself (thanks to Frontier for bending over backwards to get us there despite all odds) - first activity was the Cedar Rapids Independence day parade. So very fun and so very hot.  We found a fancy little spot with nobody else around us and watched tractor after tractor pass by.  And oh the candy we acquired. Its amazing when you're the only ones for 100 yards how much candy those parade walkers throw at you.  We were set for the week.  We then meandered over to the little street vendors and enjoyed some fresh squeezed lemonade and donated to the Quaker Oats fundraiser in exchange for huge bags of Quaker Oats products.  Turns out, the factory is right there! Cool.

-- insert Nauvoo time here, in an upcoming post --

My other 2 favorite things we did were the Root Beer Tasting Party, and the Outdoor movie night.  Both were epic.

I had ordered the root beers online because I didn't want to be tasting the usual A&W or Shasta brands found at the local grocery store.  The website offered a "sample pack" from across the nation, which I thought was cool.  There were 12 bottles and only 1 was a familiar name. (Dad's Root Beer). We tested on flavor, fizz, aftertaste, and color. It was epic.

 I also loved the outdoor movie event.  Could not have gone better, and something I will want to repeat a few times in my summers to come.  We laid out blankets and set up roasting pots on the rocks, and popped a bowl of popcorn to share.  A huge plate of chocolate and mallows for our s'mores bar topped off this perfect evening.  Joe had acquired a projector and we set up a sheet on the house to watch our flick.  I couldn't have asked for a better evening.  By the end of the film, all the kids were fast asleep under the blankets - but it's memories that I will never forget.  Super duper fun.

Again, Nauvoo was marvelous and I'll follow with a post about that shortly.  Because it really was fantastic.  So much fun with the family. Can't wait to do it again soon.

P.S.  There are Very VERY few pictures of me. I was the designated photographer for the week.  So - there you go.

My Happy Place

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This is currently my happy place.  I love it SO MUCH.

There is a splash pad that is just about a mile from my house and it is fantastic.  I load up a bag with my blanket, snacks, water, and the umbrella and load Cameron onto the bike.  I am sure I look beyond foolish as I haul all these things over to the park on a little bike, but it works! Sitting under my umbrella with my water and watching Cameron play in the sun really brings me so much happiness.  And I just love going there!

Instagram'd Summer

I love all seasons for their unique reasons.  Summer emotes a feeling of family, energy, sunshine, memories, and fun.  With the oh-so-wonderful Instragram, I've been able to track our summer with clips here and there.  #morrellsummer2014.

Here are a few things that we've been up to so far: (R to L)

(1) There was a huge rain storm right at the start of summer that flooded our backyard.  The area we live in is primarily clay for soil, so the water had nowhere to go!  It was a fairly warm day, considering, so I sent Cameron out to play in the puddles like a real boy.  And he just loved it.  Made for a darling scrapbook page as well.  Bonus.

(2) Last summer, we had dad home a ton.  This summer, he is gone a whole lot more, so when the weekends are here, we are making a special point to spend time together out.  That has been really great in the memory making department, and it makes it feel like summer.

(3) Mark got bikes for his birthday and we have been going on bike rides constantly ever since.  I opted for the attached seat rather than the drag behind cart and sometimes wonder if that was the best choice.  Eh - too late now.  Cameron really loves it for the first 30 minutes.  But anything longer than that and he is pretty much done.

(4) Cameron is really into sunglasses right now.  Yet not enough for me to buy them for him because, although darling, he doesn't keep them on his face.

(5) With some new dieting goals, popcorn is really the only treat that I get. And, sometimes, when I'm craving, Kettle Corn really does the trick.  It's delicious.

(6) Cameron and I find ourselves at the neighborhood park at least 3 times a week.  I am always surprised when I get a few towers up without the destructor coming through.  So this one I was REALLY excited about.  It sat there until we had to go. Guess Cameron thought it was pretty neat too.

(7) Cousins and Uncle Tom.  I love the relationship that Tom tires to build with these boys.  And I love the cousins thing going on too.  Cameron is growing up in a really great place.

(8) "Holy Bugs"  Our back yard is filled with these Rolly Polly bugs. I know they are called something different in every state, but for me, they are rolly bugs.  And Cameron really likes them.  As soon as he sees one he will run right over, crouch down near it and say, "hi holy bug...hi".  It's to die for cute.

(9) Love my buddy. I love being a mom.  I have wanted nothing more than a whole quiver full of kids to raise. Not joking! By the world standards, I'm crazy. But I want it.  #iwantadozen

(10) The neighbors here are epic. I seriously LOVE the Reads. They have a super cool play house in their backyard with all kinds of slides and swings and a house like thing. It's awesome. And she is the sweetest thing on the planet - always inviting us over to just relax with her while the kids play.  Cameron calls it the "next Park". As in next door...so fun.

(11) Cameron is quickly approaching the graduation from the crib phase.  So I am making him a fantastic bed comforter/quilt for his new twin bed. And I love it so much.  I'm hoping to have it done before fall.  New school year, new bedroom decor, new bed.

(12) With Mark working for the Larry H. Miller corp, in addition to the Jazz team, he is also responsible for the suites at the Bee's baseball games.  So, we've been to several.  Nothing says summer to me more than a warm night at the baseball park with ice cream, huge waters, and a hot dog. I love it.  Cameron loves it.  Happy summer days.

(13) "This is happening"  Sometimes, a cheat needs to happen. And I was surprised how delicious these cookie ice cream sandwiches (target brand) were. When asked how it was, I responded, "too small."

(14) Oddly, Cameron has been fascinated with watches lately.  Obviously, he can't tell time. I'm not that crazy of a teacher/mother. But he does like to wear them occasionally and I oblige. Can't hurt right?

(15) We've been traveling this summer a few times. My friends here think I travel "all the time" but it was just 2 back to back trips.  I don't do it that often. Although I do do it more than others. Okay, I like to travel. I digress.  Last month we travelled to Arizona and then a few weeks later, to Iowa/Nauvoo.  (a post to come shortly). Cameron is an AWESOME traveller. Like, seriously. Better than most adults. #iwantadozen

(16) Lovin' my little family. Love these summer days we're having. Love. Love. Love.

Sister's Summer Challenge

 I love goal setting.  I love self improvement and self reflection and self mastery.  AND - I love lists.  This makes goal setting my kind of thing!

However, usually when the summer hits, I feel hot, and grumpy, and lazy, and boring and all my "new me" ideas seem to get lost in the "how low can I set the A/C" thoughts.  Tragic.

Solution? The Sister's Summer Challenge.  My sister's and I started this last year with the goals to be more healthy, be more active, and be more involved as mom's.  And you know what? It worked. So, this year - we are back on the train and so far I am LOVING it.  We have a list of things that we can get points for completing daily, weekly, or monthly. (hence the more recent blogging)  Spiritual things like read your scriptures 15 minutes or write in your journal/blog/scrapbook a moment.  There are physical things like drink 100 oz or more of water, physical activity, and no junk food.  And there are mom things like read to the kids. It really is doing it's job at making me have purpose and focus during the weeks.

What's the reward at the end? Well, I am self motivated, so a reward doesn't really entice me much.  We have lofty goals of planning a Vegas reunion again if we all master 90% and loose 6% of weight.  We'll see if that works out though.

And so, to echo Elder M. Russell Ballard - I am throughly excited to master these goals and be able to look back at this summer and see a great difference in the results!

I love to see Temple Square

I have thought many times how really beautiful Salt Lake City is.  And Utah in general.  I have especially loved taking trips into the city to just be among the architecture and history of it all.  For our first Summer Calendar adventure, we made our way over to the Temple Square and enjoyed some photos and our sweet boy singing the primary hymn "I love to see the temple" in his toddler voice.  So precious.

It just so happened that my mother and Joe were passing through town on their way back to Iowa, so they joined in the fun.  This also presented the opportunity to get a few family shots in.  Cameron adores his Papa Joe and Grandma. And what a sweet blessing it is to have such great examples of faith and testimony in his grandparents.  I really appreciate that blessing in my life.  I take very seriously my responsibility to teach Cameron in the ways of the Lord, and love that I have the great example of my parents to refer to.

It was a great start to our summer days.  And yes, I did make another delightful summer calendar to keep us busier than ever. Cuz that's the kind of mom I am.

Arizona Heat

I am not sure why I always choose to go to Arizona in the summertime, but holy hot vacation!  But, it's totally worth it to spend some time with my brothers and their families. 

We spent most of the time in the water, to try and beat the heat.  One splash pad after another, these kiddos ran and sun bathed and played together so cute!  My youngest brother just moved his family to the area so, we got to get together the with them and their daughter too, which was icing on the cake!

Our biggest adventure was when we decided to take the kids to Camp Verde to see the old Indian houses in the rocks.  Lesley had memories of walking around them when she was a kid, and knowing my history heart, we made the drive out there.  If only we knew what adventure we had signed up for.  The 2 hours drive turned into 4 hours as we got stuck on the highway waiting for a RV fire to be cleared from the road.  We unloaded the kids and had lunch right there on the road - an adventure the kids really loved.  Cameron screamed for the better part of the trip, which was awesome! (boo). Once we finally arrived, the kids ran and ran while we snacked on some more food before taking the walk down to the house.  Only later to learn that we couldn't actually walk into the houses; and it was a different place that Lesley was remembering.  Oh how we laughed.  A 4 hours drive for a 20 minute walk around a small loop.  But - I did LOVE the pictures we got, and the memory is priceless.

Always a great visit to see those Arizona cousins.  Cameron and Spencer are more frienemies right now, but it will get better!