Boys Oh Boys!

BROOKS!

2010-10-07T13:12:00.000-07:00

I am inspired by my friend Carrie's blogging and decided it is time to pick it back up. I Realized after not blogging for at least a year, that everybody else still is. I am excited to get caught up on the happenings of your last year or so.

Too much has happened to catch up. And that is just too overwhelming. So I will pick up at the most important event of the year for us. September 7th, 2010 we welcomed yet another boy to our family! It was hard to come up with a name fourth time around, but we found one that fit him; Brooks Edward. He weighed 7 lbs. 10 oz. and 19 inches long. No complications at all. Everything went well, and is still going well. I do fear I am going to leave him somewhere. For some reason the number four has put my mind in a little bit of a spin. He is so good and sleeps a lot, even at night too. That makes life great! I am so used to being so tired with a new baby, but that is not the case. He looks like a clone of Ty Guy. But, he is starting to show signs of Drake too.
Needless to say, I still do not need to change the heading of our blog Boys oh Boys!

Blog Catch Up...School Programs, and many more that follow.

2009-05-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

M did the Chinese Ribbon dance for their end of year dance festival!

T did a duet of Hickory Dickory Dock. He even did a bonus muscle flex at the end. Go T!
Bye Miss Mandy! This will be T's last year with Miss Mandy...he will be going to a new preschool next year. He really loves Miss Mandy. She is reading his little graduation paper it says "I am marvelous because I am T. I like the toys, to draw, and snacks!

Dirty Boys!

2009-05-26T13:29:00.000-07:00

The boys went to the Father and Sons camp out with our church. They usually go up for the evening, come back home, shower, and sleep (since it is about 10 min. away), then wake up and go back up for breakfast. From the dirt on their faces, I would say they had fun.

Olsonns

2009-05-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

Next up...a visit from our Swedish relatives! They came May 8th-23rd. We visited them in Sweden 7 years ago, and boy have David and Matilda grown up! They are now 12 years and 14 years old! Their parents Bo and Brigeta were as fun as ever.

They spent the first couple of days in Utah. On mother's day we went to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and shopping at the Park City outlets.

Mon. we left with them for Southern Utah

Bryce Canyon

Pink Coral Sand Dunes

The day after Bryce and Pink Coral Sand Dunes, we went to Zions. That night we ended in
VEGAS!

We found a new gem in Vegas...The Monte Carlo Pool! We randomly booked our rooms there, but found that the swimming area was really fun for the children. They spent a good part of a day there. They had a wave pool, lazy river, and other pools. They had a blast together.

The Olsonns went on to Cali, and we ventured back home. When they got back a week later we had a lot more fun with them. One day we hiked to Timp. cave.
We had So Much fun with them while they were here. There were lots of tears when we had to say goodbye...why does Sweden have to be so far away?

BIG BONK!

2009-05-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

Poor little D! He fell into Grandma's brick fire place mantle while running around with his cousin. This is the biggest goose egg I have ever seen.His profile looked like a totally different kid for a few days. Within a couple day span (after this picture was taken) he also got hit under the nose when a toy that was thrown down from the toy loft that left a cut, then he ran into the corner of the writing desk and cut under his eye. After few days and the bruising set in, he looked like he was recovering from some major plastic surgery! I was a little embarrassed to take him out for a while.

Easter 2009

2009-05-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful time of year! Spring is in the air (not as much as usual, it was a little cool), the earth is beginning to wake up and show signs of new life. It is so refreshing.

The kids enjoyed hunts with the neighbors and then again with family. And, of course, a yummy dinner.

Little D, T Guy, and M Man

Boys Trip!

2009-05-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

Well, while I was enjoying Paris, the boys enjoyed a trip to Cali! I have to give props to my hubby for doing this all on his own! It was definitely not for his own enjoyment. He showed the boys (he also brought his friend and 2 boys), and a friend that had flown in from Russia. They spent a day at D-land, the beach, Santa Monica Promenade, Hollywood, Palm Springs, Calico, Southern Utah, Vegas, and more, WOW! And props to our friend Nadia that put up with all those boys! Of course, I had the camera, so there are not any photos of this trip. Well, Nadia did take many photos, I will have to get them from her.

Once I got back I was suppose to leave the next day for a visit to WA with the kids. Well, things came up and that got cancelled. I was looking forward to it, but it was a relief after all. The bonus, I got to spend a lot of time shopping and playing with our friend Nadia from Russia. It was fun to get to know her. Here is a picture of her. One night we went to a Jazz game. This was her first time to the U.S., so it was fun to see her excitement in everything we did.

Paris Actually Happened!

2009-05-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

Well, as most of you know, a few years ago Big D and I had a one day stop over in Paris on our way to Germany. We thought that would be all that we would ever want to see of France. Well, that stop changed a lot of my ideas about France and the French, and ever since I have wanted to go back.

Big D took a trip to Russia shortly after we had #3, and it was in Nov., so with a new little one and the freezing cold...I stayed behind. So,he promised me a "girls trip" when I was ready. Well, my girls trip turned into girls, and my father-in-law. He came along as our "photographer", ha ha. We were really glad to have him along. He is always fun to have around. He seemed to do things that would have us rolling daily and it was all unintentional.

We did all of the typical things; Louvre, Champs Elysee, Arch De Triumph, Versaille, Opera House, Luxemburg Gardens, Catacombs, Saint Chapelle, Concergerie, Notre Dame, Open Markets, SHOPPING, Seine River Cruise, Eiffel Tower, Pompidue, Napoleans tomb, Pantheon, many cathedrals, a day trip to Normandy,...And crepes at least once a day.

It was such a fun trip! I think the highlights for me were the Opera house, the sparkly Eiffel Tower at night, Normandy, shopping, crepes, and those that joined me. I think we made great traveling buddies (Cheryl, Whitey, Krissy, Morgan, and Sydni). I love European baby clothes, so little D made out with a lot of Euro clothes and shoes!

Our Favorite Crepe Stop by Notre Dame. We stopped here everyday!

Blog Worthy

2009-03-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

T said something that I thought was blog worthy. We came home from church and we were getting some lunch. I was asking the boys what their Sunday School teachers taught them today. T's response made Big D and I both laugh. He said "she was trying to teach me how to be quiet". I am guessing he was a little more unruly than normal. His teacher is such a quiet, gentle, wonderful teacher.

We love his energy and enthusiasm, but sometimes he has a hard time controlling it. As I quizzed him further, he said "um...about Jesus." You can't go wrong with that answer!

We love this dog!

2009-03-12T20:51:00.001-07:00

BAILEY

We love this dog as our own. She is our neighbor's dog and we love her. It is great to have a dog that we can love and send back home. If feeds the boy's need.

Can't forget him...

2009-03-12T20:42:00.000-07:00

It seems like our little guy hasn't got a photo on our blog for a while. Here are some random pictures of little D lately.

He loves putting on boots or "boops" as he calls them. These happen to be M's.

Most Excited Ever!

2009-03-12T20:25:00.000-07:00

The word M kept using to describe how he felt the day of his baptism was excited. And I have to say that I don't think I have ever seen him so excited in his life! It was a very special day for a very special boy.

A little about the day:

M's baptism service began at 9:30 am. Both of his Grandma's gave small talks, and many others participated.
We were thankful to have M's Great Granny there. She is 90 years old and shows so much love and support to us all.
T put his own little touch on the day by laughing and saying (pretty loudly) "that was funny!" As M was coming back out of the water. He thought it was funny that Dad and M went in the water with all of their clothes on! I guess we didn't think to prepare him for that.
After the baptism we had a lunch for family and friends.
Thank you everyone for all the love and support you give to our family, and especially M on this day. It meant a lot for you all to share the day with us.

COOKIES!

2009-03-12T20:14:00.000-07:00

Nana came for a visit. Friday was a day to prepare for the baptism lunch the next day. T was driving me nuts first thing in the morning. Probably because I had several things I wanted to get done before Aunt Kara and Al came to hang out. Once I realized he needed some attention and asked him to be my helper...it made happy campers all around. He loved making cookies! Or, should I say making the balls and putting them on the cookie sheet. He was a good helper and made himself his own big cookie.

Fire Station Field Trip

2009-03-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

T Guy got to tour the fire station with his preschool class. This is the 3rd time, but the first time I could go along. The other 2 times scared him. He ended up crying most the time (according to Miss Mandy). But he really liked it this time. It made me realize all the things we need to review at our house about fire safety.

A Weekend of Museums

2009-02-23T21:04:00.000-08:00

Friday night Big D had the itching to get out, but we had nothing planned. He asked me if I had any ideas, nothing was wanting to come to mind. So, to get him to come up with something, this is was my text to him...shopping and a treat! He replied shopping where? Are you kidding? I can come up with something better then that! The plan worked. So, we ended up going to the Monte L. Bean Museum of natural History. The boys love that museum, and M brought his cousin along with us. After, this was my contribution to the evening plans, we went to the BYU Creamery for banana splits. My camera had a dead battery with no back-up. So, we missed some good shots.

The next morning we headed out for breakfast at IHOP. It was lots of fun! We realized M is ready to move out of the kids menu. At least during this growth spurt he seems to be having. He ate his breakfast, most of T's eggs, and some of Dad and Mom's breakfast! When we usually leave with plenty of food to spare, M cleaned all of the plates. We made a stop at Lowes for a new shower head for the shower Nana will be using when she comes in a couple of days. Then, off to the Hutchings Museum. Again, the boys loved it. I think their favorite rooms were the mining room, which was filled with all sorts of rocks/gems..., Indian room where they beat on a big drum, ground corn into corn meal..., Wild West...they pretty much loved it all. Well, except for the jail. T was scared to death of it. We couldn't even get him to go in for a picture. It looks pretty harmless in the picture, but to the side of M there are 2 cells that are set up with manikins and like there are inmates there. I do have to say that I wasn't expecting that when I walked into it either and I jumped.

Later that night we had friends over to hang out...good times!

We Love You!

2009-02-16T15:09:00.000-08:00

I was busy updating our blog on Valentines Day, mostly to get to this one, but started having issues with uploading pictures, so here it is a few days after Valentines...but we still love you all, EVERYDAY!

We could not believe it, cupid came to our house! It was apparent because our milk was pink, our waffles were pink, and there were pink and red balloons all over! The balloons were a big hit!

BIrthday Tribute!

2009-02-16T14:11:00.000-08:00

Our M turned 8 on Feb. 1st! So here is my chance to share a few things I love about him...
I will have to admit, last year when he turned 7 I felt that when he turned 8 he would not be ready to make the decision to be baptised. To my surprise...he has grown a lot both physically and spiritually over the past year, and is excited about his decision to be baptised.

M has a strong desire to be good. I feel blessed to have that trait in my oldest child because he has 2 little brothers that look up to him. He is such a good example to them. His baby brother asks where he is if he is not within his eye shot. We all adore M!

M has enjoyed art, basketball, play dates, video games, traveling, riding bikes with the neighborhood kids, and his first go with scouts, this year.

He celebrated his big day with family, then had a party with some of his friends a couple days later.

We love our M more then words can say! Happy Birthday!

Hawaii 2009!

2009-02-14T10:22:00.000-08:00

Well, I think this will be officially the post with the most pictures ever! I tried to only pick a few highlights, but this is what it ended up as. We had this picture taken at the pool at our condo.
Kona Temple
The "White Sand Beach" which I think is really called Hapuna Beach. T and M did a lot of boogie boarding and T worked hard on a sand castle. He would watch what others were building and would get ideas from them.

I am not really sure what Little D is thinking here. I was behind him and saw him laying on the sand close to the ocean. I grabbed my camera, and once I saw his face I realized he wasn't sun bathing, he was scared to death of the sound of the ocean and for some reason felt trapped. Sick that we found this pretty funny. I did comfort him right after the picture.

The Dolphins!

One of my favorite memories was the Luau. The boys loved it! We were greeted with lays, M took his off and put it in his pocket right after the girl put it on him. But, it wasn't long until he caught the spirit of the luau and he pulled it out and put it on with pride!

Learning how to do the Poi balls.

Of course the fire dancing was the high light for the boys, hands down! T stared getting really tired after chowing all the yummy food, but he perked right back up when the entertainment started.

FunTimes!

We would go to a different beach almost everyday. Aside from the lagoon (which was great snorkeling, in a small area) next to our condo, this was the best snorkeling, so we hit this beach a couple of times. One of the times there was a sea lion on the beach, and always lots of turtles.

Tropical fruit, tropical fruit, and more tropical fruit...we couldn't get enough. Not only did we love the fruit, we would love to go shopping at the farmers market to get it and lots of other fun things.
This was a fun private beach that we hiked into. There were a ton of turtles here too, and decent snorkeling. T thought he was pretty tough, and probably stayed berried in the sand half of the time we were at this beach.

The zoo. It was fun to see animals that we usually don't see at our zoo.

Can you see the smiles on their faces from this view? This bird was so fun. Her name was Zoe, she entertained us, and when we would leave she would make all sorts of loud noises until we would come back and play with her some more.

Akaka Falls
Before we hiked to the falls the boys watched this man make baskets. They were really intrigued, and the man was very entertaining. M started making thinks from fallen palm tree branches after this.

Our Condo!

T found a sea slug that he made "his pet". Every time we went to the lagoon he found it, rocked it, pet it...GROSS! But, I love this picture.
Playing at the pool.
One of our little snorkelers.
More snorkeling. M really enjoyed it! He couldn't get enough.

Volcano National Park. One of the steam vents.

Thurston Lava Tube.

Tropical Rain Forest.

The "Black Sand Beach". Again, lots of turtles, and a native that would crack open coconuts for you to drink, then open them the rest of the way to eat the coconuts.

Another beach that we went to (I don't remember the name). This was the last time we saw these glasses, they were washed into the ocean shortly after this picture. I saw them going out, butbaby was walking into some rocks that couldbe dangerous. Thought I would make sure he was safe and not the sun glasses.

Almost every morning the boys would go outside the condo and hunt for things, mainly hermit crabs. They would put new water in their little "habitat" that they made for them, and new things. They had sea urchins, star fish...
Well, this trip was a blast, but to bring some of the reality that you don't usually take pictures of because it is the parts that you don't want to remember. We had a sick little guy most of the time which made him pretty difficult half the time. This picture captures the other side that you haven't seen in all the other pictures. We did end up getting him some antibiotics, and the last couple days there he finally started feeling better. This was after a 30 minute crying spell on the way home from a hula show that we went to.
But, on a happier note, good bye Hawaii, thanks for the wonderful memories!

DeVotchka!

2009-02-14T10:01:00.000-08:00

First of all, this should be after my Hawaii post. It is really bugging me that it is out of order...can anyone tell me how I can switch it? I can't figure out how to.

I have a new favorite group to listen to, thanks to Lori. Their name is Devotchka. Try it out on Pandora...see how you like it. Our friends told us they happened to be in SLC in concert. So, Big D got me tickets for my birthday (well, he gave me the go ahead to get the tickets and to plan the evening). We went out with Lori and Bryce to Thaifoon at the Gateway. It was my first experience with Asian Fusion. It was yummy! Then we walked over to the concert. Andrew and Kara watched the children for us. Baby got in the toilet and showed his cousin the ropes of it too. No big thing to me...it happens multiple times a day, but for someone not used to it and pregnant, it was not good. Poor Kara.

Christmas Day!

2009-02-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

Later Christmas morning the kids and Big D went with the neighbors. They pulled the kids behind their jeep on a sled. Those that weren't riding would sit in the back with the window popped open and watch and cheer. They had a blast! M got a little battle wound. A raspberry on his cheek. It was fun to watch them drive by.

It was truly a white Christmas! I guess it actually has to be snowing, and not just snow covered to be an official "White Christmas". So, you can see by the picture it was!
I was able to make things that I was taking to Christmas dinner while they were out and baby was sleeping.

We opened our family gifts, the kids decided their favorite (and only gift from us) was a trip to Hawaii!

Later that day we went to Grandma and Grandpa's house for appetizers, dinner, dessert, and opening of the way too many gifts. The kids love it, but I like the way Steph and her parent's did it...a birthday celebration for Jesus. Including birthday cake, and that is it.

We love Christmas at our house! We love the spirit of it!

Christmas Eve

2009-01-31T11:05:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Eve we had a nice dinner at Grandma and Grandpa Anson's with lots of family. After we came home (along with the Kirks), we opened one gift (Christmas P.J.'s), got ready for bed, and read a Christmas story. Typically while we read a Christmas story the boys hear bells outside! A good sign that Santa has stopped at our house! So, they go bolting upstairs to see what he has brought for them. Little D wasn't able to stay up so he found his things in the morning. It works out well for Mom and Dad too because we are not woken up at 4 am with excited children.

Gingerbread Men & Girls

2009-01-30T19:31:00.000-08:00

We had a good time with cousins/nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, Grandma, Grandpa...or should I just say relatives to make it easier, decorating and eating gingerbread men and gingerbread girls. I liked this even more then gingerbread houses. I think the tradition is going to be changed up a little bit to just the cookies from here on out.

Christmas Programs

2009-01-30T18:59:00.000-08:00

I have dejavu every time I go to one of the children's Christmas programs. I wouldn't miss them for the world, but each time, seating is limited, and my children do not like singing very much, so they usually just stand there with an awkward look on their little faces. Well, this year they stepped it up. T sang a majority of the songs, and M, moved his lips and maybe even sang softly, but did all the little "dancing" too.

Christmas, here we come!

2008-12-09T20:19:00.000-08:00

So, now we can officially bring out the Christmas decor, and turn on the Christmas music! My favorite time of year. Me and the 2 older boys headed downtown for the Light the City festivities. Along with Grandma, Grandpa, Krissy and her children, and Breez and Jina. We took the train into the city. First stop, the Old World Christmas Market. We mostly enjoyed a German shop that had authentic German food. The boys and I shared a spretzla. T inhaled it! Next stop (and we saw temple square along the way) was the Gateway. They had a nice program, and then lit their tree, and the lights went to music. Finally we got a real meal at Rumbi, and then got back on the train and headed home. What a fun evening to welcome in the Christmas spirit.

There was a really fun piano concert, and the pianist threw out balls. This Grandma made sure her Grandkids got a ball. I wish you all could have seen it, it was great!

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was surprisingly wonderful. I was cooking dinner, so I thought it may be a bit of a drag. But, D took the 2 older boys to a movie, and little D slept most of the time they were gone, so I was able to cook undisturbed (which is one of my favorite things), and reflect on all that I am thankful for. It was wonderful! We had lunch at 1:30pm with our family along with Granny, Grandma, Grandpa, and Jason (our renter). It was really nice. M shared a presentation about Thanksgiving that he had made at school. After lunch and a load of dishes, while everyone was resting, I went out and cleaned out my rose garden (this is what I see out my kitchen window at the sink, and it has been driving me nuts!) So, again, I love doing yard work, undisturbed. Later that evening we went to D's parent's house for a casual dinner, and of course, a good football game.

A New Neice/Cousin

2008-12-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

On Nov. 10th we gained a new niece/cousin into our family...Ava. She was born at 3:30 am, so we saw her later that day. The children were only allowed to see her through a window (this was torture to M), so I promised to take M back a week or so later when she was home. She lives 2 hours away, so a little bit of a trek, but close enough to see her every once in a while. M and I helped baby sit, while Mom and Dad went on a date. M loved it, he would just hold her and watch her sleep. Her little noises and expressions would crack him up.

Lori's Tag

2008-11-21T09:51:00.001-08:00

The rules to this tag are that you have to go take the pictures right now, no straightening or anything! I did this tag for 3 reasons: 1-A good friend tagged me, and she said she had fun doing it. 2-I got a new camera and wanted to practice with it (you will see I need to do a lot more practicing). 3-I really would like to see all of your pictures. Well, maybe not you Steph...you would put me to shame. Actually all of you would put me to shame. So, I would love to see all of you do this too, but am not asking you to. Only if you want to.

#1 Favorite Room

I actually have 2 that are for opposite reasons. The first room because it is our quiet, always clean room. We read, have family night lessons, and talk with each other and friends there. The kids probably would not agree with this being a favorite because it is also where they get to take time out.

And this room because it is where we spend most of our time. Ya, only about 1/8 of my day qualifies for the quiet room. Or not at all some days. But, this is where we play, hang out, watch movies and T.V.

#2 What are your kids doing right now?

Well, this is what they were doing when I was shooting the pictures. Little D was chasing a ball around and crawling under the table to get it. He is now downstairs in T and M's room playing with T and his friend.

T was coming down from the loft where he had dressed up as a goblin.

M is at school.

#3 My Closet!

Yikes. We moved into our house about 5 months ago. I did the initial unpacking, but have never gone through and organized our closet since. Embarrassing to say the least. so, here you have it.

#4 My favorite pair of shoes.

Once again, I have 2, a summer favorite and a winter favorite. These are the shoes I slip on and run out of the house in. They are by my garage door (the Uggs in the winter and the crocs in the summer). They are probably also the 2 ugliest pairs of shoes I own. I will have to get some new crocs before summer. I did painting downstairs in them and so now they will need to be replaced.

#5 My Laundry Room.

In my case I don't know if you can call it a room. It is a hall/mud room. but, I am happy to have laundry upstairs too!

#6 Guest bathroom.

This actually shows the real colors. The other ones I was having camera issues.

This is a picture that my sister in law helped me make. It actually hangs vertically, but i forgot to flip it before uploading.

#7 Kitchen Sink

This is nothing special except for the beautiful view of the mountains out the window. Well, I had to shut the shutters because I couldn't get the picture to turn out otherwise.

#8 Refrigerator

Way past due for a cleaning, or organizing it would be a good thing too (maybe I should actually be doing that then this, ha ha).

#9 Self

Right now! When I had read the tag and was taking my pictures...yikes, this is what my husband wakes up to each morning. Sorry you have to see it too.

So wow! Not only did I learn a little bit more about my camera, I also learned a little more about blogging and adding more then a couple of pictures (without just making separate posts). Thanks for the tutorial Lori! And, now I am a little more motivated to get to the projects I have been putting off for 5 months! IKEA, here I come.

There is a lot of space that I can't seem to get rid of after this post. So, there are more posts about a mile down the page.

PARIS ANYONE?

2008-11-20T22:32:00.001-08:00

I am serious about the offer. (Lori, it is still open, and if not, we will do a smaller trip). I want to go to Paris really badly. D took a trip without me last November (I chose not to go), and so he keeps reminding me that I get my girl trip. I think all of you would say that you want to go, but if you are really serious about it, let me know. I am thinking around the end of March or April. I am also thinking it will be around $1000 for a week with the rough checking I have done. You know you want to, just do it!

D's 1 Year Pictures

2008-11-09T21:10:00.000-08:00

CUTIE PIE!

T's 4 Year Pictures

2008-11-09T20:57:00.000-08:00

SAY

CHEESE!

Our Ty Guy!

2008-11-07T13:35:00.000-08:00

Ty is our little comedian and he doesn't even try to be. When he gets us laughing though he looks really proud. The other day he was sitting next to me at the table drawing, and asked me "Mom, do you think ghosts poop in the sky?" My first reaction was to tell him to not use potty talk (which he is really into these days), then I hear Dave start to laugh, and I realized this was an honest question. I could see Ty's wheels turning and trying to figure out if poop would be falling out of the sky or what. So, I kept my face as straight as possible, and explained that they don't have a body, so they don't have to poop. That answer satisfied him, and he went on drawing his picture of ghosts flying in the sky (with no poop falling).

I miss my camera

2008-10-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

Fun day, but no camera. I am so sad. I left my camera plugged into the USB port over night after uploading pictures to our blog from our trip. For some reason it won't turn on now. Yes, I did relpace the batteries, but it is still dead. So, in those 2 days both days I missed it:

Yesterday while max was in school the rest of us met Natasha and Uri Gushen and Gerald and Mona Sherwood for lunch at The Cheesecake Factory. Natasha and Uri are friends of ours that are visiting from Russia. They are so fun to be with. Such wonderful people. They are so kind to everyone. Ty loved them right off the bat. He was playing games with Uri as we were driving to lunch, and held his hand in the parking lot. Natasha was sitting next to Drake in the car, and she had him laughing and holding her hand. Such wonderful people, we just love them. And the Sherwoods too. Gerald was full of a lot of jokes, and so good to the children too. But, no pictures of these wonderful people.

Today Max started his fall break. We, along with the Higbee's (Lori, Vienna, Kael, Saxon, and Cashe) went and got lunch and took it to the park. The weather was wonderful! Lori and I had fun having adult conversation, and the kids had a blast playing. Then we went to The Aquarium. The kids always get really excited about going and it was really fun having friends there with them. After that we stopped by IKEA. We went through it as fast as we could and got some fun things. We got an ice cream when we were done. Then, we headed home for a game party. BYU vs. TCU. This ended up being a bad game. Dave left after the first quarter to get a video. Ya, that means it was really bad. But, Uncle Breez came and brought Wingers wings. The food was great, the game, not so much.

Tomorrow Max, Drake, and I are heading to Idaho with Aunt Kara and Alex. Kara is doing a jewelry party, and my cousin Keitra happens to be having a baby shower then also, so we are tagging along so we can catch the shower. Ty isn't coming because there is no room. So, he and Dad will have fun.

No Photos, No Fun!

2008-10-13T14:23:00.000-07:00

If you are noticing that I finally blogged, I would hold off until tomorrow to read it. There is an issue with adding images right now, so I will try again tomorrow. I know when I read blogs I enjoy the pictures almost as much or more. So, they are to come.

VACATION TO CALI! October 2008

2008-10-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

This summer our boys were derpived of a full blown family vacation. Mostly because of our move and working on our basement. We took several little 3 day weekend trips, but that's it. So, we decided to join Eric and their family in CA for their family vacation. It was a super fun trip for the children, and of course, we had fun too.
We drove so we could stop in Vegas and see family and friends. On our way we had dinner with our friends at Peter Piper Pizza. Dal, Nik, Dave, and I visited, and the children had fun playing and winning tickets, for those, oh so awesome, prizes you can earn. We went and stayed with our cousin's The Johnson's. The kids had fun playing with their children, and almost as much fun playing with their new dog. At one point K, Drake, and Ty were in the dog crate. Steph was right on it with a photo, but my camera was in the trunk. We also stopped at their house on the way back. Steph and Jeff made a wonderful dinner, then Steph and I and some of her friends went out for girl's night. It was a blast! And, of course, I didn't have my camera. Steph did a great blog about it, click on the my oh my blog on my blog list if you want to get the run down on that. It was fun!

Palm Springs!

2008-10-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

This is when we met up with Eric and Ang and their, oh so cool, family. We enjoyed being with them, swimming, The Living Desert, and playing at the park. Drake is enjoying the mysters at The Living Desert.

Heading to the Beach Cities

2008-10-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

Today we got the condo all cleaned up and headed for Santa Monica. Before we got there we met Auntie Anne and Uncle Duane for lunch at Lucille's BBQ. Anne and Duane picked the perfect place. It was family friendly, and Yummy! We had so much fun visiting and hearing about their children and Grandchild. They are so much fun.

At Santa Monica we walked the Pier, then went to the Promenade. For those who don't know, this is one of my boy's favorite things in Cali. It is a walking only street a few blocks from the Pier, and there are a lot of fun street entertainers. Unfortunately it was a little rainy, so there wasn't as many as usual, but still plenty to have fun. Max's favorite was a Russian boy and his dad that did amazing gymnastic/circus type stuff. There 3 favorite entertainers there, weren't there this time because of the rain.

A Day at the Beach

2008-10-13T13:30:00.000-07:00

Thismorning we had breakfast with many of Dave's family members. His Mom and

Dad happened to be in CA along with his brother Ron and his family. We were so excited to see them for that morning, then they left for a cruise. Also there (hopefully I don't forget anyone), was; Wilda, Gladys, Sara, Ryan, and Rebecca (and there son to be). It is always fun catching up with family.

Nothing better than perfect weather at Huntington Beach Pier. We all loved it! The kids could have stayed until sun down, but we called it quits earlier to make sure we got baths, dinner, and bed early to gear up for our big day tomorrow. We had some yummy fish and chips for Dinner.

Next stop Disneyland!

2008-10-13T13:20:00.001-07:00

Saving the best for last! A day at Disneyland. Both boys said that Space Mountain was their favorite. This is a change for Max because last time we could barely get him to go on Pirates of The Caribbean, and Ty surprising liked Space Mountain the best also. He was barely tall enough, and got measured at every check point, but loved it! They rode it several times. This was also Drake's first time to Disneyland. He soaked up every minute of it, and was exhausted, as were all of us, at the end of the day.

It was so fun being there for Eric, and his children's first time also (Ang has been before, but it was super fun being there with her also). It really is "the happiest place on earth"! We kept reminding the kids of that if they got grouchy.

Is This Normal?

2008-09-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

I LOVE MY BOYS!

I guess God made me tolerable of things many girls/women aren't. Either it was God, or my 3 older brothers. Ha ha. Here are a list of things that I encounter daily. Tell me all of you with little boys...do you encounter these things also?

1-Weird things frozen in ice in cups in my freezer? Like; bugs, action figurines, worms, coins, pine cones...you name it.

2-Rocks, sticks, and acorns in the washing machine, or if they don't come out of the pockets then, in the dryer? You would think I would learn to check pockets every time. But, it seems most the time I am throwing a load in in a rush. I guess the girl alternative could be worse...melted lip smackers.

3-Hey Mom look! And right in your face when you turn to look is a nice long worm they are so proud of finding (that just happened as I am writing this), or a grasshopper in each hand held by a leg for a "grasshopper fight". A little inhumane if you ask me. The best was when we were at Grandma's house. I was up stairs and I heard a little knock at the side door. Grandma answered the door, then I hear her scream and scream, "it's a bird, it's a bird!" and Ty starts crying. He innocently was showing her the dead bird he just found. It was recently killed because it was limp and not stiff. I am glad he got to Grandma before me.

Go Cougars!

2008-09-14T22:41:00.000-07:00

September 12th, 2008

Dave and I had a nice little weekend with each other. We left Friday afternoon for Park City. We had a nice dinner at a Thai restaurant. I have been told that mango sticky rice is such a yummy dessert, but am always too full to try it. I was set to have some here, but once again, too full. I have decided we will have to go sometime just for dessert. We enjoyed our jetted tub in our hotel room, and just relaxing.

The following day we headed to Provo for the BYU vs. UCLA game. We are big fans of college football, especially BYU. We love, love, love going to the games! We were getting some funny looks with all our BYU get-up. What can I say...we are die hard!

This game made the weekend even better because they killed UCLA. That makes for a very happy Dave.

Max's First Day of 2nd Grade!

2008-09-14T22:33:00.000-07:00

August 18th, 2008

School started so early this year. It made summer end so abruptly, but it is always nice to get back into the more structured schedule of the school year.

Max is starting at a new school this year. The same one that his Dad went to many years ago. He lucked out with a wonderful teacher that some of his uncles had; Mrs. Sampson. I thought this would be hard for Max, but he didn't seem to care. He was a little panicked when he went to the wrong door, but the principal was right there to assist him and gave me the thumbs up, and he was on his way.

Drake's Big Day!

2008-09-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

August 10th, 2008

Our little baby turns 1! Where has time gone?

Max and Ty had a great idea to have the bakery make Drake a snake cake. Happy Birthday "Drake Le Snake!" Drake had a great time diving into his cake with no reserves. We love our Drake!

POOR LITTLE DRAKE!

2008-09-14T22:17:00.000-07:00

August , 2008

Drake hit his eye on the corner of our entertainment center. Dad was at work, but on his way home. I handled the blood just fine. I surprised myself. He was a trooper. He is all stitched up, and on his way to recovery. Just in time for his 1 year pictures.

Ty Turns 4!

2008-09-14T21:13:00.001-07:00

July 14th, 2008

Today was Ty's day. We did a lot of fun things. This afternoon he and I went on a date to the Dinosaur Museum, and then to JCW's for dinner. He drank root beer to his heart's content.

After dinner we went and picked up Granny to help us celebrate. She was the only one of all of our family around. Everyone else was in Europe. They called Ty earlier in the day and sang him happy birthday. Thank you Grandma, Grandpa, cousins, aunts, and uncles. That was so sweet. It brought tears to my eyes.

The Higbee's (Lori and Bryce; Vienna, Kael, Saxson, and Cash) came and helped celebrate too. Thank guys! we had a blast, and Ty went to bed exhauted. A sign of a great day!

2008-08-03T20:13:00.000-07:00

DRAKE'S FIRST HAIRCUT!

He doesn't have a lot of hair, but it was long in the back, a borderline mullet, and long up top and it was starting to get in his eyes. He had a big audience.

DRAKE MAKES OUR BLOG!

2008-06-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

In response to many of you I have added a picture of Drake. He managed to flash some cheesey grins while eating a cracker, even though he has been trying to cut 6 teeth at one time! This has been a little over a week, and still no teeth. He seems to be happier the last 2 days, and sleeping better. But, almost 10 months old, and no teeth!

Today, Monday, is our first official "summer break" day. Max started an art class Mon. mornings. That doesn't start until 10am, so we all slept in. Ty especially. he slept until 10am! What a treat after many sleepless nights.

Can someone tell me how to rotate a posted picture on your blog?

Max and Ty's summer cuts!

2008-05-29T15:10:00.000-07:00

The boys got hair cuts on memorial day. I was sad to see Ty's curls go for a while, but happy for the easier job of combing his hair each day. He told the girl cutting his hair that "it's too short enough", I don't know that he was liking it at first either. But, he likes all the attention people give him about getting it cut. He just agrees with people and says "ya, it is so hansom!"

Max struggled too. He likes his hair long. But, I convinced him to try out a summer cut too.

Trip to Southern Utah

2008-05-24T20:21:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we took the boys, along with Dave's parents and his brother Breez (his wife ditched us for Hawaii, she was jealous-ha ha) to Southern Utah. All though we go there pretty often, we are amazed at the beauty every time. We took a hike down into Bryce Canyon. It was wonderful. The boys did great, and Drake loves being in his backpack. Ty was a head of us all, and gave me a work out keeping up with him.

The next day we hiked to Calf Creek Falls. This is a hike that we did once before with Jess and Josh without the children. Max was fine, but the heat seemed to get to Ty a little bit. Thanks to Grandpa and Uncle Breez, he got to ride on their shoulders every now and again. It was all worth it once he got there...he loved it, as did all of us.

Dave and Jana's 10 Year Anniversary!

2008-05-24T20:13:00.000-07:00

Dave and I took a trip to San Fransisco earlier this month to celebrate our 10 year anniversary! We had a blast! No children...that can be very refreshing once in a while. Once I figure out how to add pictures, I will add some pictures to make our blog more exciting.

We did all of the typical San Fransisco things.

We Are Moving!

2008-05-24T20:05:00.000-07:00

May 24th, 2008
We will be closing on our house on June 6th. So, probably move in a few days after that. It is just a mile away from where we now live, so it should be a pretty easy move. All though it is so close, Max will be going to a new elementary school. He is a little nervous about that, but thinks it is great that he gets to go to the same elementary school that his Dad went to.

So, I am busy packing. You would think it wouldn't be that hard since half of my stuff is still packed from the last move, but it is still as big of a chore as ever.