As Time Goes By...Our Family Blog

Easter Sunday

2011-05-04T10:33:00.004-06:00

Easter Sunday was nice. The kids got lots of candy from the Easter bunny, some sidewalk chalk, a new kick/dodge ball, and even some gift certificates. We had a nice day at church and then Michael and Bekah came over for dinner. Mom + dad were in Ohio visiting family + friends, so we missed them this year. It was a nice day to reflect upon all that we've been blessed with as a family.

We are so grateful for the life of our Savior which enables all of us to live in celestial glory as a family and return to our Heavenly Father.

I hope you all had a happy, wonderful Easter. Love, Kim

Ella's confusion

2011-04-27T15:08:00.002-06:00

So yesterday in the car after Kindergarten, Ella told me...

"Mommy, Gabby got her lungs removed." (Gabby is the little neighbor girl across the street whose mommy I used to work for at the little dress up shop)
I replied, "Ella, I don't think Gabby would still be alive is she had her lungs removed honey. You see, we can't live without our lungs."
"Yea-huh, Mommy...she got her lungs removed."
"Ella, do you mean she got her tonsils removed?"
"Oooh yeaaaaa, that's it...her TONSILS"

too funny, huh?

Later, after running around ragged from one soccer game to the next and being severely wind-blown. Ella fell asleep in the car. When we got home, she sleepily walked into the house where she told Lauren, "I almost passed away in the car Lauren." We were dying laughing and she started giggling when she realized what she had said. She said "I meant I almost passed OUT."

We love her silly adorable ways!

Spring Break

2011-04-19T11:24:00.003-06:00

Some of the things that were on our agenda during Spring Break this year:

-Meet Michael, Bekah + cousins at McDonald's to play

-Lauren + Tess soccer practice Mon-Friday

-Zach dog-sit for the Manning's (Gus + Woody) + the Cain's (Shilo)

-Kim dog-sit for Mom + Dad (Jack, Maggie + Bell)

-See the movie HOP

-Go out to eat at Olive Garden after the movie

-Kim + Brian go to IFA and get seeds, fertilizer + plants for the garden

We would have rather been someplace warm + sunny but we hung-out, relaxed + tried to make the best of it. Wishing you all wonderful Spring!

My baby lost her 1st tooth today

2011-04-15T13:45:00.005-06:00

Awww, I can't believe how sad this makes me.

Ella was shocked that it came out.

Ella was blowing an inflatable ball up and Tess ripped it out of her mouth (RUDE).

The tooth fell right out into Ella's hand.

I was a little freaked because I didn't even know she had a loose tooth.

Ella didn't tell anyone because she didn't want anyone yanking it out.

She wanted it to fall out on it's own.

She's pretty smart, huh?

She thinks she looks really cool now...

I think my baby getting to be a biggie girl.

I'm realizing that I won't have these 4 beautiful children in my home forever.

Time seems to be passing by so, so quickly.

Zach, Lauren, Tess + Ella....I love you.

This song reminds me how I feel today...

I don't mind your odd behavior

It's the very thing I love

If you were an ice cream flavor

You would be my favorite one

My imagination sees you

Like a painting by VanGogh

Starry night and bright sunflowers

Follow you where you may go

Oh, I've loved you from the start

In every single way

And more each passing day

You are brighter than the stars

Believe me when I say

It's not about your scars

It's all about your heart

You're a butterfly held captive

Small and safe in your cocoon

Go on you can take your time

Time is said to heal all wounds

Chorus

Like a lock without a key

Like a mystery without a clue

There is no me if I cannot have you

Chorus

Love this song...

2011-04-15T13:27:00.000-06:00

Some good thoughts...

2011-04-10T16:20:00.002-06:00

A person who has good thoughts cannot ever be ugly. You can have a wonky nose and a crooked mouth and a double chin and stick-out teeth, but if you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.

- Roald Dahl

If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it.

-Mary Engelbreit

March...where did you go?

2011-04-10T15:31:00.013-06:00

Tess took a trip back to the 70's last month.

Her music teacher, Mrs. Hickenlooper (yes, that IS her REAL name) asked for volunteers to do the opening act at this years talent show.

Tess dressed up in her grooviest workout clothes to do "The Hustle". It was so cute!

Devan's Birthday:

Well, we have been so blessed as a family to have this miracle boy here among us. We love you so much Dev, and we were so glad to come up and celebrate your birthday!

Happy 11th birthday Big D!

Grammatical Errors

2011-03-23T14:09:00.001-06:00

Beware as you read the next post...I know there are grammatical errors, but for some reason my computer is on the fritz. I can get into the post to make corrections, but it won't allow me to re-post or save the changes.

I know I've made errors before and I'm sure I'll make them again...please, just overlook them and enjoy!

February...

2011-03-22T22:29:00.006-06:00

Brian and Branden took the scouts to Deer Creek Reservoir for a campout...

We had fun with making our own Ham"mack"...

The girls got some bangs...

and we went bowling to celebrate our day of NO SCHOOL school on President's Day.

February was filled with LOVE and lots of FUN!

January 2011

2011-03-22T20:26:00.005-06:00

January was Nannie's + Lybbe's birthday. Michael + Bekah brought the kids down and we had their birthday celebrations together. We love getting together and spending these special moments as a family. I know my kids will look back on these times and be grateful for the memories they have. We love you Nannie + Lybbe!

January was also BIG for Zach. He was SO excited to get his braces off. Well, I was a little shocked at how quickly he aged once those braces were taken off. The night before he was our 13 year old and the next day, well, he looks more like 15 now. We went to lunch @ Rubio's (Zach's favorite place lately) after he got his braces off. It was nice to be able to spend time with him...Just me + my boy, I love you Zach!

Zach.

Before +....

After!

We love your new smile buddy!

Happy Birthday Ella

2011-02-19T14:44:00.012-07:00

For Ella's birthday, she wanted to see a movie, and we decided to also squeeze in our annual trip to Temple Square. We parked by Brian's work and then we all walked over to the Gateway. Bekah dropped Sydne + Colton to us out front so that we could all watch "Tangled". We snacked on popcorn + treats while we watched.....it was a REALLY cute movie. Everyone enjoyed. After the movie, we met Michael out front (he was on his way home from work) and said goodbye to Sydne + Colton. We were really grateful they could meet up with us! We then took the Trax to Temple Square. The kids LOVE to ride the Trax, so they were thrilled! It was chilly that evening so we walked fast. We took some nice photos and then we headed into the Visitor's Center. That was great! We took a virtual tour inside the SLC Temple and the kids thought that was awesome! We played around in the Visitor's Center for at least 45 minutes walking around and browsing at everything. When we were done, we took the Trax back to the Gateway and went to the Food Court to find something to eat. It was a really nice evening and we had so much fun celebrating Ella's birthday.

things we LOVE about Ella:

-Ella is always willing to share, it doesn't matter what she has
-Ella still loves to cuddle
-We love that Ella still wants Mommy or Daddy to put her to bed EVERY night
-I love the quiet time in the afternoons when Ella wants me to lay on the couch and read to her
-Ella is silly and always makes us laugh

I can't believe our Ella is already 6...we love you so much baby girl!

Birthdays + Gingerbread Houses

2011-02-08T09:27:00.005-07:00

Michael, Bekah + kids came down and had a sleep-over this year to celebrate Brian + Zach's birthday. We had a blast! Since it's a tradition to build gingerbread houses with the cousins every Christmas, we accomplished that while they were down as well. December is such a crazy month for us and I always feel like we are cramming SO much stuff into each get-together. But really, the kids LOVE it and we have so much fun spending time with our family. This year Zach decided that he was too cool to make a gingerbread house, so he was the "tune-master" (he also did a great job at eating tons of candy...what a brat, huh?). Colton + Ella did awesome this year. They built their houses all on their own...they were adorable!
After making gingerbread houses and eating birthday cake Friday night, Saturday afternoon Brian + Uncle Mikey took Zach and 4 of his buddies bowling + playing laser-tag. Zach said he had an awesome birthday + I'm pretty sure Brian enjoyed himself as well! It doesn't seem like 13 years ago I gave Brian a slimy, cone-headed, perfectly beautiful baby boy for his birthday present. I love you Bri, and thanks for always making Zach feel special on your shared birthday...you're a wonderful daddy!

Ward Christmas Party

2011-01-22T14:27:00.005-07:00

This year for our Ward Christmas Party, they planned a Night in Bethlehem. Each auxiliary was in charge of making a "booth". We (I'm 2nd counselor in the Relief Society Presidency) were in charge of the Bread Bakery (we served pitas and sandwich thins topped with yummy chicken salad) and Brian + the YM were in charge of the fruits + nut cups at their booth. Brian was asked to hack bananas with a machete...everyone thought that was cool. The Primary was in charge of the Dairy booth, the YW were in charge of the Dessert Bakery booth, the High Priests made wooden toys for ALL the children...everyone did SO much.

My wonderful neighbor and friend Heidi came to my rescue that evening as well. As many of you know, I DO NOT sew...well there was no way I was going to figure out how to make outfits for all of us to wear that evening. We were just going to show up in our everyday clothes. :0( Heidi heard of my discouragement and, with random sheets from her basement, she whipped up an outfit for all of us...I was just shocked and amazed! Thanks Heidi, I appreciate your help and encouraging words more than you know.

It was so nice that everyone came together and made such a wonderful evening possible.

Willow Creek Campout

2011-01-21T16:45:00.009-07:00

In December Brian took the scouts to WillowCreek for a Campout. (I don't know if I've mentioned this before but Brian is the 2nd Counselor in Young Men's and the Scout Master). Here are some of the memorable moments (according to Zach):

-Snowball fights (even the leaders got in on the action).
-5 mile walk in the dark.
-Michael + Jacob getting into a fight.
-Freezing...the whole time!
-Sister Stephens' delicious chicken noodle soup!

I am not really fond of the mess they come home with and I don't really understand why anyone would want to go through that much work to sleep out in the freezing cold, BUT these campouts are a lot of fun for both Zach + Brian. It's a blessing to me that Brian is able to be there and be a part of these memorable moments with our son.

Parenting: Touching the Hearts of Our Youth

2011-01-21T11:02:00.001-07:00

LOVE this.....

Indoor Futsal

2011-01-21T11:01:00.004-07:00

Tess and Lauren are both in competitive soccer now. The girls love soccer, so we love it too. It's been really good for the both of them and their skills have improved quite a bit. There's a new Futsal Arena about 25 minutes from our house and Tess' coach wanted all the girls to sign-up for a session over Winter break. It was so much fun. The rules are a little different from indoor soccer but we love it because it's so fast-paced and exciting. Tess' team did quite well, they made it to the playoff game to play for 1st place in their division. At the end of the game the score was tied, so it came down to a shoot out. They ended up losing by one shot :'0( We were disappointed for them, but they still played awesome. Good job girls! Tess' coach was so impressed at how much the girls improved during one session...he signed them up for this next session in January. Lauren's coach signed their team up as well, so they're both playing. Soccer in the mornings AND in the evenings on Saturdays now! They'll end Futsal just in time to start practicing for their Outdoor Spring season. We're so proud of them and how hard they practice + play during their games. We love you Lauren + Tess!

Michael's Birthday + Boise

2011-01-20T11:01:00.007-07:00

I remember when we were little, Michael following me around and wanting me to play with him; I remember playing McDonald's drive-thru on our bikes in the driveway; I remember riding the waves on our Hawaiian Punch raft and building sand castles in Myrtle Beach; I remember kicking him and giving him bloody noses (yes, I was SO mean to him and I can't say sorry enough for that); I remember talking to him for hours on end about life's troubles and him patiently listening as I rambled; I remember getting into trouble and my parents spanking me and seeing Michael cry because he was so upset (I, on the other hand, was way too stubborn to cry most of the time); I remember just recently telling my teenage son that he better be nicer to his sisters because one day he's going to regret being mean and not having fun with them....I'm sorry for not recognizing while we were growing up that I had the BEST little brother in the whole world. He's such a good man, husband + father....Happy Birthday Michael! We love you.

Boise. We took the kids to Boise on a road trip. It was random, but still fun. These are the photos, thanks to Lauren. On our way home we had to stop at this awesome store, Smith + Edwards (you can read about it here http://www.smithandedwards.com/ )....it had everything! The kids LOVED it! After we stocked up on our favorite candies, we went over to Michael + Bekah's, dropped off our girls for a sleep-over, and picked up Colton. We have so much fun when Colton comes, that boy is a HOOT. We sure do love him!

That's all for now. Love, Kim

Strawberry Reservoir

2011-01-18T18:08:00.004-07:00

In October, Brian took the scouts out to Strawberry Reservoir...these are the things that Zach wants to remember about that campout:

-Corey popped the eyeball out of a fish and used it as bait (ewww, sorry I'm just dictating what Zach says)

-Zach caught about 30 fish and shared them all with the other boys.

-They thought it was cool to wipe fish guts all over our boat.

-Brian snagged a fish by the top of it's head.

-Sister Schreiner made some A.W.E.S.O.M.E. cookies and sent for all the boys to have.

The End.

Sand Hollow Reservoir

2011-01-18T09:29:00.004-07:00

In October we decided to take the kids down to Sand Hollow Reservoir for one last outing on the boat. We got there after dark, which made things a little more difficult for Brian + Zach to get everything set-up. The girls were so excited to see that there was sand everywhere, they took their flip-flops off and started marching all around the campsite. Well, before I knew it, Tess was shining a flashlight down on the ground and asking "What's this?" Zach took a look, got his hammer + proceeded to smash the heck out of the SCORPION. I was freaking out and yelling for all the girls to get their flip-flops back on and get in the truck. Well, we eventually got out of the truck...we just spent the rest of the evening sitting around the campfire talking until we were all ready to go to bed. Brian cooked us all a yummy breakfast and we headed straight for the lake. I wasn't going to journal this, but...I do need to mention that I got yelled at by a Park Ranger for letting Zach ride the boat trailer out of the water (I didn't know he was still on it + I was FURIOUS!) For those of you that know me well enough, you know I was bawling and livid by the time I got down to the lake to get on the boat. Well, after about 45 minutes of me sitting by myself in the bow and reading my book, I was over it. The kids had a blast and it was absolutely GOR.GEOUS! We ate lunch on the boat and then Brian and Zach swam over to the rocks to fish. After their fill of fishing, they swam back to join us in the boat. Brian, while he was sliding down the slippery red rocks, managed to slice his foot open. It was nasty! I bandaged it up for him and he was fine...we were all a little grossed out though!

We went back to the campsite, Brian grilled tri-tip for dinner, and then I headed to the showers to get the girls ready to go into town to watch a movie. Well, while we were in the showers, Brian + Zach decided to walk down to the shore and do some more fishing. Right as we were all drying off and getting dressed, the girls and I heard sand pelting the door and the wind was howling like crazy! It was pouring by the time we got back to our site, and our wonderful tent was ripped to shreds. Brian + Zach were throwing everything in the back of our truck and in the boat and by the time we all got everything taken down, we were all soaked to the bone and covered in sand. We still took the kids to see Secretariat (we were all huddled together and freezing in the theater while eating our popcorn), and then we got a room in St. George for the night. The girls went swimming the next morning while Brian + Zach re-organized the truck and boat, and then we headed home.

It ended up being quite an adventure, but we had sooo much fun together! I am so grateful to have such a wonderful family and a husband who plans and works hard to make these fun little excursions possible. Love to all, Kim

Ghost Hunting

2011-01-17T16:28:00.003-07:00

Our friends invited us to go Ghost Hunting this past Halloween to an old Army Outpost. We thought...why not? It was actually really interesting and very entertaining. The kids were SOooo into it. We checked out the school house, the "haunted" Inn, and the museum. Everyone took lots of pictures and we all had a great evening. We went with three other couples and their families, and, after the ghost hunting was over, we enjoyed a nice firepit, some yummy hot chocolate, delicious wassail and doughnuts. Some of the men told some "kid-friendly" ghost stories while we visited, and then the women even went back to the school house to check it out (it was WAY more spooky after everyone else had left). It was a lot of fun and we hope to make it our new Halloween tradition.

Student of the Week

2011-01-17T16:22:00.004-07:00

Good Job Zach! Zach was nominated by his Science teacher, Mr. Hansen, and chosen as Student of the Week. He received a certificate and free lunch from Cafe Rio, and a cool school t-shirt. Way to go buddy, we love you!

Halloween 2010

2011-01-17T15:35:00.004-07:00

So, this was a different Halloween for us. Zachary was "too old" to dress up and Lauren really didn't want to. Tess thought that the Super Girl costume was awesome in the store...when she put it on for the Trunk-or-Treat at church, she thought differently. Ella LOVED her butterfly + her Super Girl costumes so much, she wanted to wear them all the time. So, for the Trunk-or-Treat, Ella + Tess were both Super Girl (Zach walked around with his buddies and Lauren passed out the candy at our truck). For their school costume parade, Ella wore here butterfly costume and Lauren + Tess were both soccer players. For the neighborhood Trick-or-Treat, it was raining and miserable. Our neighbor across the street asked Tess + Ella if they wanted to walk down the street with them (that was nice because I had told the girls they had enough candy and it was too nasty out for us to be walking around...thanks Sam). Tess quickly came up with a cowgirl outfit and Ella, since she was already in her jammies, put a binkie in her mouth and went as a baby. I didn't get pictures of that, but it was adorable. Regardless of their costumes, or lack of them, they were all cute and we had a wonderful time!

BYU vs UNLV

2010-12-22T23:20:00.003-07:00

Zach wanted to take some of his buddies to a BYU game...Well, Brian lucked out and was able to purchase a bunch of tickets for really cheap. We took our kids + Zach's 4 buddies and it was a lot of fun. Tess had a Futsal game that morning so we grabbed the boys and headed to her game bright and early. After Tess' game we grabbed an early lunch and headed to BYU. We had some pre-game fun at the stadium and by the time the game started we were all excited to cheer on the Cougars. They played a GREAT game...we almost had the Fight Song memorized by the end.

"O Rise and Shout, the Cougars are out

Along the trail to fame and glory.

Rise and shout, our cheers will ring out,

As you unflod your vict'ry story.

On you go to vanquish the foe

For Alma Mater's sons and daughters.

As we join in song, in praise of you, our faith is strong.

We'll raise our colors high in the blue,

And cheer the Cougars of BYU.

Ra, ra, ra, ra, ra

Ra, ra, ra, ra, ra GO COUGARS!"

Thanks Bri for a great afternoon!

Thanksgiving Day

2010-12-22T23:03:00.005-07:00

Thanksgiving was wonderful, as was our Fall Break! Michael + Bekah came down Thanksgiving evening and they ended up staying for a few days...everyone had a blast! We ate so much we were all SICK! The kids got along really well (for the most part) and the adults had some fun playing games and just relaxing together. We are so grateful for all our family and friends...you've all touched our lives in so many ways!

Love to you all, Kim

Our 4 Blessings

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T11:48:00.002-07:00

with love and gratitude,

Brian, Kim, Zach, Lauren, Tess + Ella

Our visit with Kaylene + Curtis

2010-11-20T12:15:00.005-07:00

Kaylene + Curtis came for a visit. They were driving Seth to college and we were lucky enough to get to see them. We always have a nice time with them and Zach LOVES to hang-out with their boys. We took them out on the boat, ate at Texas Roadhouse, Brian + Zach got to go to a BYU game with them, and I got to hang-out with my girls + Caleb. That boy is a hoot, he cracks me up! We need to plan another visit soon, we had a great time!

First Day of School

2010-11-20T11:29:00.003-07:00

Okay, I KNOW I'm a slacker! Trying to catch-up is for the birds. You would think that I would learn to blog as things happen, but no. I continue to do things the hard way.

Well, Zach started Jr. High this year and they are the first students to attend this brand-new school. He thought that was really cool. My boy is growing up :0(

This is Lauren's last year of Elementary...she's a 6th grader now. She has Zach's teacher from last year and he tells her that she is so much prettier than her brother...she LOVES that!
Tess is in 5th grade this year! She has Zach's old teacher this year too.

Ella Bella.

My baby started Kindergarten this year...and yes, I survived.

This was as I was picking her up. I was in no shape to take any pictures of when I dropped her off...I was too busy getting tissue from the principal as he walked around the Kindergarten playground passing them out to the weepy moms.

Tess' Birthday

2010-11-20T11:22:00.002-07:00

Tess' birthday + the yummy Heath cake...sorry, I just uploaded this from my camera.

Summertime

2010-09-15T14:02:00.019-06:00

It's time to catch up on all of our summertime fun!!

June

-Zach's Scout Camp: After we came home from California, the next morning Zach left for his week-long Scout Camp. He had a great time without his sisters and parents, but we sure did miss him. One morning while Zach was away, Brian had work to do in that area. So, Brian got up extra early that morning and drove down to have breakfast with the boys. When he got there, he noticed Zach over by a tree with his back to everyone. Zach is not one to get in trouble, usually, so Brian asked one of the leaders what the deal was. Apparently, Zach had to observe nature everyday for 20 minutes and write down his observations in a notebook...that's what he was doing: Sitting in a chair, staring up into the trees, and paying attention to what was going on around him in his environment. Kinda funny though, huh? He was able to earn his Mammal Study, Leatherwork, Environmental Science, Tracking, Archery, and Swimming merit badges. Way to go buddy!

-Father's Day: For Father's Day we drove up into the canyon and grilled. The girls really had a blast wading around in the lake. After our yummy dinner, we took the long way home. The scenery was beautiful ...We had a great day!

-Bubba Gump: Michael + Bekah have this "neighborhood" cat and it had kittens in their shed. Well, they asked, I said "I don't know", they saved their favorite one for us (just in case we decided we wanted one), and then I found myself going to the store and buying this kitten an igloo, a cushy bed for inside, a collar, and some food. Somehow we agreed to take one...I don't know how that happened ;0) Well, then we needed to figure out what we were going to call him. Brian wanted to name him Kevin or Rick, then he thought Ricky Bobby would be funny...we ended up naming him Bubba Gump (it was fresh in our minds after eating at the Bubba Gump restaurant in Monterey). He lives in our garage, but it seems as though the kids sneek him inside just as much as they can. He's a sweet cuddly kitty, and he tolerates Griff and Gracie. What more can we ask, right?

-Boating: Our 1st summer owning a boat has been great! We've been able to take Mom + Dad, Michael + Bekah and kids, some great friends, and just recently Kaylene + Curtis and their boys with us. We've had a blast. I was a wreck the 1st few times we went, but we eventually got the hang of it. I can now back the trailer (with or without the boat) 1st try. The boat ramp we usually use is rather steep and I still hate that "sliding back into the lake" feeling, but I'm a little better now at hiding my anxiety. Zach + Lauren can now wakeboard, Tess uses the Jr skiis with the bar attached, and Ella uses the "Easy Ski". Brian loves to do whatever he can in between the kids' turns...he's still working on some of his wakeboarding tricks (keep trying honey, I'm sure you'll land them by mid-summer next year). I like to "work on my tan" mostly, and drive the boat when it's Brian's turn on the lake. Everyone LoVeS the tube, except Ella + me (I imagine 2 kids smacking heads and getting knocked out unconscious + Ella worries that she'll sink). We've had lots of fun going out on the lake this summer and we feel very blessed to be able to have this fun toy where we can make lifetime memories with our kids.

July

-4th of July: We had fun the whole weekend. We took the boat out Friday, Saturday + Monday...it was tons of fun! On the 4th, Michael + Bekah came down, we grilled + mom made jell-o cake AND a strawberry rhubarb pie. They were SO good! The kids had fun with the sparklers and lots of neighbors were setting off fireworks. It was great to spend time and hang-out together. I have such a great family!

-Michael's Graduation: Michael did it! He got his bachelor's degree on the 17th of July! We packed the kids up and went to the ceremony. We watched him get his diploma, and then we were off to drive back home and get Zach's football gear. After that fiasco (that's another story), we went to dad's company BBQ. It was a long day, but definitely worth it. I'm so proud of my little brother! He's worked so hard...I could go on and on, but he knows. I just wanted to acknowledge how much we love him and how proud we are. Good job Mikey!

-Trek: Brian and I were called to be "Ma + Pa" for our Stake's Youth Trek! Have I mentioned that I'm not really fond of camping? Well, we did it and let me tell you, it was un.be.liev.able! We had to be to the Stake Center by 3 AM on Tuesday morning and we didn't get home until just before midnight Friday night. We had the best kids in our "family": Andrew, Semi, Kyson, Geraldine, Sydnie, Taylor + Jessie...they are such great kids, we love 'em! After about a 5 hour bus ride Tuesday morning, we made our way to Martin's Cove. We spent some time in the Visitor's Center and then we walked. Along the way, we were greeted by missionaries who told stories of some of the pioneers. It was a very spiritual and humbling experience. After that, we boarded the buses and made our way to our camp. Wednesday was our "Trek" day (we went a total of 10 miles). We left early after breakfast, got our hand carts and headed down the trail. We trudged our way through a mud hole, crossed the Sweetwater about 8 times, and we got to re-enact the Women's Pull. The Sweetwater River Rescue and the Women's Pull were the highlights for me. Without giving too many boring details, I'll just say that I have a deep love for the Mormon Pioneers. I can now imagine what it might have been like for them. Okay, I know what we did doesn't really come close to comparing to what they endured, but I was there in some of the same places they had been, and I felt of their sweet spirits. It was an experience that strengthened my testimony, and I'll never forget it. Thanks for being patient with me throughout the whole process Brian...I love you! Oh, and a HUGE thanks to Michael + Bekah who came down and ran my kids around while we were gone (thanks to Mom + Dad for visiting with them when my kids were driving them crazy)! I don't know what I'd do without you guys.

The kids definitely had fun while we were gone...

Also, our dear friends Mike + Heidi had their baby while we were gone on Trek....welcome baby Mack! He is such a sweet little boy!

Ella holding baby Mack!

August

-Montana + Canada: After we got back from Trek, Barb came to visit. We had a great time visiting her. We went up to Kendyll's pool and swam, we took them out on the boat, we went to Gateway and did some shopping and we went to Temple Square. I look forward to her visit every summer, and we had so much fun while she was here. Lauren went with Barb, Marley + Kendyll up to the cabin and stayed there about 10 days with them. She got to hang with Marley, relax and swim in the lake, see Grandma + Grandpa, go to the Mud Bog + Rodeo, go ride horses, and spend time with Falynn. I took Mom + the kids up there to go pick her up (Brian couldn't take the time off to go). Since we were only about 2 1/2 hours away from Grandma + Grandpa's we took mom over Logan's Pass and spent a couple of days with them. We had dinner in Grandma + Grandpa's back yard, Aunt Shauna had a pinata filled with candy for Tess, the kids slept out at Uncle Allen + Aunt Lori's, I got to take mom to Waterton to see the shops, the kids swam in the creek + rode horses, and we got in Grandpa's pick-up and rode to the top of Piney Ridge. We enjoyed seeing everyone and spending time together. It was nice to show my mom where Brian grew up and what a wonderful family he has. We love you guys!

Barb's visit...

Lauren + Marley...on their way over Logan's Pass

Lauren took this picture of Uncle Loy + Aunt Louise at the rodeo

Breaking the pinata after Dinner at Grandma + Grandpa's

-Tess' Birthday: We got home from our trip just in time for Tess' birthday. All summer she had been begging us to let her have her party on the boat. She took a few friends (we missed Lybbe + Sydne), we got some pizzas and after that we just played until they were tired (okay, Brian + I were the ones who got tired first). We went home for some cupcakes and by then it was late and time for everyone to go to bed...Phew! It was fun, but I was still lacking sleep from the drive home the night before. We had her "family birthday" dinner on Sunday and Michael + Bekah brought the kids down. We had chicken and ate a yummy Heath Toffee Cake...I tried making those oversized cupcakes in a regular cupcake pan with the tall cupcake liners. It. didn't. work. It sounded like a good idea, but really they just looked like fatty, square cupcakes. Then, when we tried to cut them to make them pretty and round again they were too difficult to put icing on. Let's just say that I now have the large cupcake pans ;0)

I can't believe that my Tessy is 10 years old....and she's just as spunky as ever. We love you so much Tess!

Well, that was our summer in a nut shell. Love to you all, Kim

California Dreamin'

2010-06-15T14:36:00.010-06:00

Our trip to California was wonderful! We went for Seth's graduation, and, although we didn't make it for the ceremony, we were certainly glad we were there!

We really crammed a lot of stuff in on this visit: we were able to see the new Shrek movie, go to the Oakland Temple for Kaylene + Curtis' Ward Temple Day, see the sights in San Francisco, camp in Big Sur, spend a day on the beach in Carmel, look for shells on Sand Dollar Beach, drive on Scenic Highway 1, eat at Bubba Gumps in Monterey (yummy), splash around in their friend's pool, do a little shopping, eat at Red Robin's for Grandma + Grandpa's anniversary, and visit Yosemite on our way home.

It was so much fun, and thanks again to Kaylene, Curtis, Seth, Jared, Adam, Caleb, Grandma + Grandpa for the wonderful memories!

The gang (minus Seth) at the Oakland Temple

San Fran + Dennis the Menace Park in Monterey

Scenic shots in Big Sur, Carmel + Monterey

Yosemite + our stay in Tonopah (who-da, what-a)

Our Anniversary

2010-06-11T14:05:00.008-06:00

Happy Anniversary to us! Wow, 15 years!

I feel so blessed...I love you Bri!

Finally, an update!

2010-05-25T16:54:00.027-06:00

For the sake of time, I am going to make this a short + sweet post, just to fill you in on the past couple months...

Tess had a School Program on the State of Utah

It was absolutely A.DOR.A.BLE.

Silly girl

Tess posing with Jim Bridger

We had to dress the cut-out, write a poem, put something in the can that Jim Bridger would have had (we put a mouse trap because he was a trapper) + decorate the can...
It was a lot of work!

Mother's Day

Bekah + I made a really nice (if I do say so myself) magnet board for mom, but I didn't get a photo of it once it was finished! I'll have to post that later.

Bekah made this for Mom

Opening my frame from Bekah

Lauren made this for me...

Good smelling stuff from Mom

Tess made this card for me

My Flower from Ella

Mike + Heidi's wedding

Congrats to our dear friends/neighbors!

They finally did it...WooT, WooT!

McCrae holding their beautiful flowers

Our New Boat

We plan on having tons of fun on here this summer

Just in case...

Lauren, Tess + their friend Gabby were playing on the boat when we first brought it home

Zach @ YM Campout

Uh-oh!

Yummy breakfast before leaving

Lauren-Spring Soccer

Tess-Spring Soccer

Easter Sunday

Cousins are the best!

SPRING BREAK

Going bowling

Playing at McDonald's play place

Sydne

Colton

Ella
Trying to find a parking spot at the movie theater...

Nice parking job, huh?

Nannie did Tess' hair in pin curls

Yummy Pizza @ The Pie with Nannie + Papa

Devan's Birthday

Brian needed a time-out...

Lauren's artwork on her napkin

Aunt Bekah brought the kids some treats

Nannie

("Let me out of the booth Stan! These fries are cold...I'm taking them up to get hot ones!")

Just kidding, I love you mom!

Dev's favorite treat

Dev givin' Mama kisses....isn't that sweet?

Hey Ella!

Going to see The Blind Side + In-N-Out with the kids

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T22:28:00.004-06:00

We hope you had a wonderful day with your families! We're so grateful to have heard the special messages that were shared with us yesterday + today, and for the opportunity to spend time with family. It's late, but I wanted to share this. Love to all of you, Kim
(Remember to pause the songs below on the right)

Sydne's Birthday

2010-03-24T12:53:00.010-06:00

It's been awhile since we've celebrated Sydne's birthday, BuT, I wasn't able to find the camera cord to download these pictures until yesterday morning. I don't know how we are constantly misplacing things! I guess with 4 kids and a husband, it's hard for me to keep track of where they take things and then figure out the random places where they ditch them...argh, it's frustrating! Well, I'm glad I got that off my chest...So, for Sydne's birthday we went swimming again. This time was not nearly as successful as the 1st. Poor Devan wasn't feeling very well, and once everyone got dressed we quickly realized that they must have had the whole place heated before because it was quite chilly out of the water. Needless to say, about 15-20 minutes into swimming, Nannie was taking Colton (who by that time had blue lips and was shivering) to the dressing room to get him changed out of his swimming trunks and back into his warm clothes. Well, I think we were there for about an hour or so and then we headed out to get something to eat. Sydne picked Red Robin, so we headed there to meet Michael (he had gotten called into work just as they were getting ready to leave the house). It was a lot of fun visiting with each other, and the food was really YuMmY! After, Michael headed back to work and Bekah brought the kids to our house. Sydne opened presents and we had some dessert. We LoVe celebrating birthdays and it's been fun that we've been able to get together and make memories with all the kids while they're still young + liking each other (well, for the most part anyways). Lots of love to all of you, Kim

The birthday girl!

Our resident photographer, Lauren
Tess

Dev...claiming his spot in Uncle Bri's chair

Isn't that just the sweetest thing?

Nothin' like a Play-Doh mess

Time for dessert

Happy Birthday Nedra!

2010-03-01T07:53:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday to my mother-in-law, Nedra!

When I married your son, I had no idea how much you would come to mean to me. What a blessing you are in my life, and the lives of my children. I hope your birthday has brought to you much joy and happiness.

lots of love, Kim

Happy Birthday Sydne!

2010-02-24T11:43:00.005-07:00

You remember my entry from the beginning of February (our birthday celebration with Lybbe at the pool), right? Well, for about a week and a half now, Bekah has been talking to Sydne about what she wants to do for her birthday. She has been very adamant that we are going to go swimming again! Bekah's been trying to persuade her to pick a movie, but she wants nothing to do with that! Ella has been talking about this for the past week...she is oozing with excitement! So, Sunday night Michael + Bekah came over and during their visit we discussed plans for Sydne's birthday this weekend. The girls, I'm sure, were talking about it all evening as they were playing, which made Ella even more excited (if that's possible)! Ella woke up Monday and one of the 1st things out of her mouth was "Mommy, is it Sydne's birthday?"...my reply, "No, not yet sweetheart!" Well, yesterday she woke and asked the same question...my reply, "Yes, it IS Sydne's birthday today..." before I could even finish the sentence she was squealing and giggling, it was too cute! I quickly reminded her that we weren't going swimming until Saturday. She looked sad for a second, but then smiled and said, "but, it's still Sydne's birthday...yea!" It was too CuTe!

Moving right along...This post is to wish Sydne a very happy birthday! (sorry I didn't get it on here yesterday) -AND- I didn't get to sing to her on the phone like I always do, so here ya go Sydne:
"Happy Birthday to you, happy birthday to you! Happy Birthday Sydne-sue....happy birthday to you!" You're such a sweetheart Sydne! We love you!

Valentine Fun

2010-02-16T09:35:00.005-07:00

Well, this last week and Valentine's weekend was a lot of FuN! We had Parent/Teacher Conferences (Zach + Lauren got wonderful reports + Tess...well, we have a few things to work on), Tess had to turn in her big "Jim Bridger-Mountain Man Project" (Mommy + Daddy helped her write a biography, a poem, decorate and design a label for the can that contained an item Jim Bridger would have had, and finally, decorate the big cut-out man to look like Jim Bridger. Wow, we're glad that's over with...but I think Tess had fun with it), we decorated Valentine Boxes for the kids' class parties and got their treats all packaged up, I got Ella + Tess' hair cut, Friday night we watched the Opening Ceremonies for the Olympics (wow, that was awesome), Saturday we spent all day car shopping (I'll talk more about that later), Sunday, Michael + Bekah came down for dinner (we always have such a fun time when they come to visit) and we even had yummy sugar cookies with pink cream cheese frosting (de-lish...thanks Lauren + Bekah for all your help) and yesterday, Mom, Dad, Mike, Heidi, McCrae, Bruce, + Sheila came over and we ended up having the dinner we were supposed to have had on Sunday (it's a long story but it was YuMmY - thanks mom, and thanks to everyone else for the yummy rolls, and banana splits for dessert). So, today Lauren is home with a yucky belly! Are we ever going to get over this yucky belly/diarrhea bug? Tess has had this sinus pressure and nasty cough since last Wednesday. yUcK, YuCk, double-yUcK! I'm done with winter and I'm done with all the sickness! Okay, I've vented now...I feel better! I hope you all had a good Valentine's Day, and I hope this finds you well + happy! Love to all, Kim

Lauren wanted me to post this...

(I forgot to post it when I did her hair in the little braids and took them out the next morning)

Lauren + Tess' Valentine Cans

I got this idea from my friend Katie...thanks Katie for your inspiration

(I took the picture, created the cards, and then attached them to their treat bags)

Easy + Fun...the girls LoVeD them!

Random photo of Lauren

Lauren's photo of Ella after her haircut

Lauren feeling sick today :0(

WoW, look at Ella's wacky hair this morning...

Someone had a good nights sleep :0)

Tess' "Crimped Do"

2010-02-02T07:56:00.002-07:00

One night last week I did Lauren's hair in braids right after she got out of the shower. The next morning we took them out and it looked so cute. Tess has been begging me ever since to do her hair "just like that". Well, last night after Family Home Evening the girls got their showers and Tess came down with all the stuff to do her hair. It was quick + easy. She asked me to put a "before" and "after" on the blog, so this is what I'm doing. Before I end, I have to say this...Tess has been trying to grow her hair out for about 2 years now. It is hilarious! She constantly makes up her mind that she wants to grow it out like Lauren's and then someone gets a haircut...if I take Ella or Zach in to get their haircut, guess who's begging me to let her cut her hair? It's so funny to me that she LoVeS to get her hair done. Anywho...these are the pictures I promised her I'd post. (Before she walked out the door her hair had flattened quite a bit, so the picture below may look a little fro'ish but it wasn't that bad). Love to all, Kim

Before

After

Our Birthday Celebration with Lybbe

2010-02-01T11:32:00.015-07:00

Lybbe turned 9, and yes, we had a celebration! She decided that she wanted all of us to go swimming (you can imagine how thrilled we all were to get into our swim suits). Regardless, we had so much fun! Devan was a little freaked out at first...it was loud and echoing in there, but it didn't take him long to calm down and start having a blast. I think his bum must have bruises on it from bouncing up and down all day. Colton was a hoot! He was rough-housing with Zach and Michael, but it was hilarious to watch him and Papa...oh my, we were crackin' up! We went down the big slide, Lauren + Brian went off the diving board, and there was a lot of splashing and goofing around. Mom, Bekah + I showered the kids off in the little family bathroom/shower...there were 9 of us all together in there. Talk about chaos, phew! After some banging on our door (people are so RuDe) we managed to get out of there and we headed to Golden Corral! After stuffing ourselves silly, we headed to Michael + Bekah's for dessert. The kids decorated their own cupcakes and the grown-ups had jello cake. On our way home we listened on the radio as Utah Ute's Henderson back-handed BYU's Emery after getting fouled...Henderson was ejected and BYU won 82-69 (way to go Cougars!)...the excitement just wouldn't end that night!

Thanks to Michael + Bekah for planning a great day...we'll have to do it again soon!
I hope all is well with all of you. Love, Kim

WARNING: the quality of these videos are horrible, but they're funny...watch at your own risk!
*please remember to pause the music (above on right) before watching*

This is Brian + Ella going down the slide

This is Lauren on helium

This is Zach on helium...and Nannie laughing at him

Happy Birthday Lybbe-lou

2010-01-26T22:21:00.002-07:00

Today my niece turned 9. Wow, I can't believe how quickly she is growing up. I remember when Michael and Bekah brought this cutie home from the hospital...really, was it NiNe years ago?...that's CrAzY to me. One thing that stands out to me the most about Lybbe is her sensitivity. She is such a blessing to her big brother and she is so sensitive to his needs. It makes me so proud when I see her being so loving and patient with Dev and helping him the way she does. You're a good girl Lybbe-lou, and we love you LoTs! HaPpY, hApPy BiRtHdAy!

Sick Sydne-sue

2010-01-22T13:13:00.004-07:00

I thought it would be appropriate to add this to the blog. My last post details our sicknesses, but what I neglected to mention was how sick my poor niece was...poor Sydne-sue was vommitting for over 36 hours. Bekah ended up taking her to the ER because she just couldn't keep anything down and she was severely dehydrated. Well, we're glad she's all better now. We love you Sydne!

On the Mend

2010-01-21T21:37:00.005-07:00

In case you didn't know, we've been S.I.C.K. It's been rough...
About a week ago this past Monday, Brian went out-of-town for work and I started feeling horrible (of course it was while he was out-of-town, I have THE.WORST.TIMING. E.V.E.R!) I started feeling achey and exhausted and by Tuesday I was having a hard time dragging myself out of bed to take Zach to his 1:00 pm orthodontist appointment. Pitiful, I know! But, thankfully, Mom went with me to make me feel a little better. Anyhow, I have been achey and exhausted off and on since. Well, Monday we met Bekah and the kids at McDonalds so the kids could play and by that evening we had kids complaining that they didn't feel very good. The diarrhea started and then the achey, sore back + necks came...Zach's had a headache and his stomach and ears have been hurting all week. Ella threw-up Tuesday night a few times, but by morning she was just overly-exhuasted. She slept all day Wednesday and it was nearly impossible to get her to eat or drink anything. Today she seems just fine. She stayed awake all day and she was back to normal, coloring and playing with the girls. Zach, Lauren + Tess still have the diarrhea, and I hate not sending them to school again tomorrow, but who wants to be doing that at school...I know I wouldn't! Hopefully with some more rest and maybe some movies this weekend we'll be good as new (I'll be keeping my fingers crossed). I hope you all are healthy and doing well! Love to all, Kim

Yuck!

This is Ella's best re-enactment of Tuesday Night

Now...we're feeling better!

(photos courtesy of Lauren)

Mom's Birthday

2010-01-19T09:45:00.006-07:00

Sunday, Michael + Bekah came down and we celebrated mom's birthday. It was already planned that we would have spaghetti, salad, broccolli, and bread. Well, dad forgot to get the salad stuff + we didn't make the broccolli...so it ended up that we had spaghetti + bread. It was yummy! We had a fabulous evening!

Bekah has been working on this blanket for mom for a while now, and she finally finished (I'm so proud of you pineapple) AND she printed out this awesome photo of the DC Temple and a quote from President Hinckley and framed it...it was so nice! As for our gift...well, mom collects Willow Trees and we got her one that she didn't have yet (she pretty much has all of them). Turns out, I got her the wrong one. Does that surprise you? probably not. I knew it wasn't the right one when I bought it (she wanted the one that Michael got me one year for my birthday) but she had seen it at this store and told me where to get it, and that's all they had!?! Lame, I know!

On a more positive note, the carrot cake that dad made was delish and the kids enjoyed some warm chocolate chip cookies. What better way to end the evening, huh? Love to all, Kim

Here's to you mom:

"The Name of Mother"

The holiest words my tongue can frame,

The noblest thought my soul can claim,

Unworthy are to praise the name

More precious than all other.

An infant, when her love first came,

A man, I find it still the same,

Reverently I breathe her name,

The blessed name of mother

by George Griffith Fether

Make a wish!

I got her the Brother and Sister

I should've gotten her the Sister and Brother (woops)

This is a picture of the one I should've gotten her :-)

Lauren's Day of Fun

2010-01-11T13:14:00.006-07:00

Lauren enjoyed rock climbing (she + Tess went up and down those walls at least 10x each), lunch at Texas Roadhouse, and a movie...it was a fun, busy day. Nannie + Papa, Uncle Mikey, Lybbe, Sydne + Colton (we missed Aunt Bekah + Dev) all came to lunch and then Uncle Mikey, Brian + I took all the kids to see Alvin + The Chipmunks 2. Phew...when it was all said + done we were exhausted!

Lauren's Birthday!

2010-01-10T14:11:00.005-07:00

Lauren says it's AmAzInG having a birthday on New Year's Eve. Everyone gets together and she's always allowed to stay up late! We love our Laurnie...she's always been such a good girl. She is very obedient and very strict about following the rules (sometimes she is a bit extreme, but we still love her). I know she is going to be a good mommy someday...she is so helpful + she LOVES playing with the little babies in our ward+ neighborhood. I know babysitting jobs are just around the corner. YIKES...what will I do when Zach is off with his buddies and Lauren is off babysitting someone else's kids? I'm for real freakin' out...she's our "go-to girl" when we decide (always at the last minute) to go out on a date. Well, we love Lauren, and as I'm sure you can tell, our family wouldn't be the same or run as smoothly without her!

Lauren Sybella - 18 months

(awww, wasn't she a cutie?)

Lauren's 11th birthday

Lauren's birthday cake request...chocolate cake with chocolate icing + reese peanut butter cups

Ohhh Yahhh! That's my girl!

Our Christmas

2010-01-03T21:14:00.005-07:00

This Christmas was very difficult for me. Looking back, I think it was simply the fact that I resented going to work during the day because I was missing out on the time that I L.O.V.E. spending with my Ella. Now, add to that: 4 birthdays, family gatherings, school parties, teacher gifts, neighbor gifts (which I dropped the ball on), 2 book reports, Brian's classes + finals, Christmas cards...I'm sure I could think of more but I'll spare you. I. was. a. BEAST. Ask Brian, my mom, or Bekah they'd all agree. I feel horrible about being so short with everyone! So, needless to say, if this post may sound like it's lacking the feelings or emotions of Christmas....it's sad to admit, but this year I was just going through the motions. I vow to never let that happen again, and with that...

Christmas Eve began with a McDonald's breakfast with mom + dad, grocery shopping for all of the Christmas meal fixings and then just hangin' around the house with the kids. We played Phase 10 and ended the evening with one of our favorite Christmas movies, "Elf". Before going to bed, the kids checked out where Santa was...I believe he was making his way south from somewhere in the Northwest Territories. Christmas morning brought lots of fun surprises for the kids...Zach got lots of games for his and Brian's new birthday gift (a PS3) + some new BYU apparel, Lauren got some new clothes + a super-cool lime green camera, Tess got some clothes + and nice shiny new kitchen she'd been begging for, and Ella was surprised with her very own DS. Nannie + Papa made sure all the grandkids had new pajamas + the kids had fun picking out their gifts with the money Grandma + Grandpa sent. Okay, I still feel horrible about being a beast, and not taking advantage of what this season has to offer...

Here are some photos by Lauren

Ella's Birthday

2010-01-03T17:06:00.007-07:00

Ella's 5! It's hard for me to believe that my little baby is already 5 years old. Here's a photo of her 5 years ago....I know, I know...she's going to grow up and there's nothing I can do about it, but it doesn't make it any easier. We asked her what she wanted to do for her birthday and she said she wanted to invite some friends to go to McDonald's and play (we are enjoying these simple requests from her while they still last). So, Sandra, Ryan + Zoe joined us along with her cousins at the Play Place (thanks to Heidi + McCrae for dropping by to say "hi" as well). I'm sure you can imagine the fun we had. Michael + Bekah are teaching the Temple Prep class is their ward and they were going through the Temple with one of their students that evening. So, Brian met Michael and picked up their kids after work so that they could join us for the festivities. After everyone was fed, after Nannie + I changed 2 nasty Dev diapers (I love that little boy,but man, oh man, it was NOT pleasant) we took everyone home. When it was all said and done, Ella had a lot of fun and she got some really nice gifts. Thanks to everyone for making her feel so special on her day!

We decided that the next evening we were going to take the kids to see a Christmas movie at the IMAX theater, "The Lights Before Christmas"(thanks for the passes Michael) and we decided to let Ella pick where we got dinner...

Zach's Birthday late-night

2010-01-01T18:48:00.004-07:00

Zach wanted to have some buddies over for his birthday so, we decided to let him have a late-night.
The agenda:
playing PS3 games
playing Wii games
watching the GI Joe movie
eating lots of pizza
eating cupcakes
making ice cream sundaes
lots and lots of just plain, old goofin' off
He had tons of fun! Thanks to Brantson, Zack, Ed, Adam, Michael + Chaden for coming over and celebrating Zach's birthday!

The kids in their Christmas Outfits

Candy Making + Gingerbread Houses

2010-01-01T18:18:00.005-07:00

Mom, Bekah + I went shopping a couple Saturday's ago in preparation for our candy making. Needless to say, we had a fun time...just the girls. After fighting traffic and laughing our heads off at the rude/idiot Utah drivers (okay maybe it was Bekah's road-rage we were laughing at) we got all of our supplies and headed home for an afternoon of candy making. We didn't get everything done, but, we had been telling the kids all day that they could make/decorate some graham cracker houses. They had a blast, and we will FOR SURE put this on the calendar for next year.

Sunday-Dec. 13, 2009

2010-01-01T17:18:00.007-07:00

In preparation for Zach's 12th birthday, he had an interview with our Bishop. In our church, when a boy (I guess now he's a young man) turns 12, he is able to receive the Aaronic Priesthood. The Bishop talked with Zach, Brian + I for quite some time...he wanted to make sure that Zach was prepared and understood the responsibilities that come with this ordination. It was so cute...Zach was red-faced and incredibly shy, but it was cute! He's such a good boy (okay, minus his temper) and it's so fun to see how he's matured and developed over the years. Brian has been working on converting our old VHS home movies over to DVD and I just cry and cry everytime I see Zach's sweet, chubby little face. He's officially taller than me (I know, I'm no giant...but still). Before I know it, we'll be getting ready to send him off on his mission. We were so glad that Grandpa Beazer, Papa, and Uncle Mikey were able to stand in as Brian ordained Zach. What a great day this was. After church, we had some snacks and then bbq pork sandwiches...yummy! We worked on some puzzles, Brian + Zach opened up their gifts, and we had a great time visiting and laughing together! Enjoy the pictures...love to all, Kim

Temple Square 2009

2009-12-13T21:31:00.003-07:00

Every year we go to Temple Square to see the lights. Well, Morgan + Nedra flew in Friday afternoon, so, after we picked them up we got something to eat, took the kids to see "Old Dogs", and then headed over to Temple Square. It was BEAUTIFUL! It's beautiful every year, yes, and that's why we've made this tradition. We needed better weather and warmer boots for the kids (there were frozen piggies and lots of tears) but, other than that we had a great time! It was Brian + Zach's birthday so they were in charge and it was a lot of fun. We were so glad to have Grandma + Grandpa there to share in this tradition of ours. Love to all, Kim

Random picture of me the morning after my mom did my hair in pin curls. Curly, huh? It relaxed after a few hours and the next day the curls were just about perfect. Thanks so much mom, it took a long time and I appreciate it...love you!

Our Thanksgiving weekend

2009-12-06T18:39:00.008-07:00

Thanksgiving was awesome this year. It's awesome every year, but this year everything seemed perfect! We started the festivities off on Wednesday...Bekah came down to drop Colton off for a sleep-over and she took Tess + Ella up with her to stay with them. We did some shopping, came home for pizza and watched Ice Age with the kids. After the movie, I made the dough for the dessert (Oreo bon bons) to chill over night. We woke up early Thanksgiving morning and Brian and I started making the noodles...they were just like my Aunt Glenna's. My mom out-did herself this year (especially the turkey + gravy), and everything Bekah brought was delish as well. Immediately after dinner, Michael, Bekah, Brian + I took off to see "New Moon". We had so much fun watching it with them! We headed back to mom + dad's for dessert and then we came to our house to play games. We played Phase 10 into the wee hours of the morning so Michael + Bekah spent the night. It was great! I went to label + ship dresses the next morning but before I headed out the door we all ate pancakes together for breakfast. When I got home the kids had the tree decorated already. It was so cute to see them...they were so excited to have it up! I finished putting up the rest of the decorations and then it was time for bed. We met Michael and Bekah for bowling Saturday afternoon and it was hilarious. Colton + Zach were the winners! They came back to our house, mom + dad came over, and then it was Phase 10 again! It was a repeat of Thanksgiving night. Michael did, however, seem to improve his game that night...I think he got stuck on Phase 7 for only 3-4 hands that time. Way to go Mikey! Sunday morning we were off to church and they were headed home early. What a nice weekend spent with family...we are so grateful for all our many blessings! Love to all, Kim

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T11:00:00.002-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! We are so grateful for the blessings in our lives; for the true and living Gospel that has been restored to this earth, for Brian's wonderful job, for our warm, cozy home, for the yummy food that's provided for us each and every day, and for all our family and friends...for all of you we are truly grateful!

With love, Brian, Kim, Zachary, Lauren, Tess + Ella

Recuperating

2009-11-21T13:12:00.003-07:00

So, I believe that I've recuperated from my lack of sleep. Going to New Moon at midnight probably wasn't my best decision as a mom, but it was worth it! Our group of crazy's: Marieke, Katie, Kahea, Kahea's sister, Kahea's sister-in-law, Heather, Rebekah, Rebekah's sister, Jessica, Tris, and me. I'll have to get someone to forward me some photos from the evening because I forgot my camera. My mom came over and as soon as Grey's Anatomy was over I told the kids to go to bed and I headed out. We went to dinner, and then headed to the theater. It was pure chaos! They really needed to be a little more organized for that large of a crowd. Some impatient theater employee was standing on the counter yelling...it was C.R.A.Z.Y. Our theater was the only "Event Theater" so we were seated last. Marieke and her friend reserved the theater and organized the whole thing...we each received a goody bag (mug, t-shirt, candy + lots of business cards), a box of popcorn, a soft drink, and there was an awesome raffle. I didn't win anything (I never do), but Marieke won a New Moon quilt, Marieke's sister-in-law won a nicely decorated photo book, Julia won a magnet, and Katie won an awesome necklace! I can't say enough about the movie, but I won't spoil it for those of you who haven't seen it yet. I got home, mom woke up and went home, and by the time I went to sleep it was after 3:30 am. Those of you who know me well, know that I am a beast without my sleep. It really wasn't that bad, but I started working for Lindsey (littledressupshop.com) on Thursday and I had to go in Friday morning. I took Ella over to mom's and was at work by 9:30 am. I came home around 12:30, tried to take a nap, picked up the kids from school, met Brian in Lehi and then we drove to Salt Lake for the Grizzly hockey game. We drove back to Lehi, dropped Brian and Tess off, Brian took Tess to get a b-day present for her friend, I brought Zach, Lauren + Ella home, carried Ella to bed, washed my face, brushed my teeth and then I collapsed! Phew...what a day!

New Moon

2009-11-20T16:36:00.005-07:00

Okay, yes...I went and I survived. It was A.W.E.S.O.M.E! I'll have to elaborate later. Love, Kim

General Relief Society Meeting

2009-11-05T17:24:00.005-07:00

I know I spoke of going to the General Relief Society Meeting in September, but I just came across these pictures on my cell phone. I went with my mom that evening, and we had a lot of fun! I jotted down a few notes during the talks from that evening...

Julie B. Beck, General RS Pres.

-Service magnifies and sanctifies each sister.

-Much of the RS work that we do doesn't happen in meetings.

-A sister in this church has no greater calling outside of her home than Visiting Teaching.

-Visiting Teaching is never finished...it's more a way of life than a task.

Silvia H. Allred, 1st Couselor, General RS Presidency

-Heroines are women who strive to be righteous rather than selfish.

-Our participation in RS will bless the world.

-RS assures me that Heavenly Father loves me.

-RS helps me recognize my responsibility to raise up the next generation.

-RS is vital to EVERY home and family.

-RS needs you and you need RS.

Barbara Thompson - 2nd Counselor, General RS Presidency

-We need to be "Minding the Gaps" in our lives. We all have "gaps" (the difference between what we KNOW and what we DO).

-One gap in our lives is "Believing that we are a daughter of God and KNOWING we are."

-We need to accept HIS love. Love ourselves and love others.

-It's not just about what we can get out of RS but also about what we can contribute.

-It's the duty of each of us to be honorable women.

Henry B. Eyring, 1st Counselor, First Presidency

-President Eyring spoke of the great legacy of those that have gone on before us.

-The sisters who crossed the plains, in their poverty, comforted others.

-For all, both men and women, there will be no salvation without compassionate service.

Those are just a few things. I was truly inspired that evening...Inspired to always be trying to do better.

Halloween continued

2009-11-05T16:01:00.005-07:00

I really wish that I'd quite getting behind. Playing catch-up is no fun...however, Halloween WAS! We went over to Gary + Christine's home for some yummy soups + bread before we headed out for the trick-or-treating. It's so nice to just visit and relax with good friends. When we first moved here, my dear friend/neighbor Paige introduced us to her friend Christine...this has been the tradition every year since. Ella wasn't acting herself that night which made me worry that she was coming down with something (she didn't though, thank goodness). She lasted maybe 40 minutes into the extravaganza and then she was bawling because "Mommy, I'm fweezing!" Tracey offered Ella Gaby's jacket and gloves but she was too stubborn to take them. So, being the lovely mom that I am, I told her "Ella, E.N.O.U.G.H. with the whining! You were offered a warm jacket and gloves...if you're too stubborn to wear them, then too bad. I don't want to hear it!" She shivered for about 5 more minutes when I broke down and realized, okay, I should call Brian to come and get her. Where was Brian you ask? Well, he skipped out this year on the trick-or-treating. He enjoyed the warm, yummy soups at Christine's but after he was done eating, Oscar gave him a ride home. Do you believe that? He didn't even pass out candy!! He was supposed to be doing homework, but instead, he preoccupied himself with installing the extra rod in Ella's closet that's been sitting out in the garage for several months. I guess it needed to be done that night ;0) Anyhow, I'm glad he was able to come and get her because by the time he reached us she was hysterical. Poor baby was freezing! After we finished in the Harry Potter neighborhood, we packed the kids up and headed to a couple more. They had a lot of fun, and they got some yummy candy (which is already gone, of course). A good ending to Halloween 2009. Love to all, Kim

The Adults

My little coven of vampires

Waiting for the others to catch-up to us

Zach is missing his fangs...they were bothering him

My frozen baby

Out for a drive

2009-10-26T11:51:00.016-06:00

Saturday morning came and the kids wanted to go for a drive. We packed up (dogs included) and headed to AF Canyon. It's so pretty up there...it's always one of our favorite places to go for a drive. I took the camera, thinking that maybe we'd have a chance to take a family photo. Well, after the 1st two stops the kids decided that they had had E.N.O.U.G.H.! At Cascade Springs (our 3rd stop along the way) they just would not cooperate. I got ugly, and so I headed to the car for a time-out. About the time we were leaving the canyon I was speaking again. (I really don't know if I'll survive their teenage years...seriously!) We grabbed a bite to eat and drove 2 miles down the rode to see some model homes (another one of our favorite things to do). They were beautiful! There was a stocked pond in this development, so the salesman told Brian to take the kids over and go fishing. Zach let the dogs off their leashes, the kids fished with their daddy, and I was able to just relax and read for a while. It really did turn out to be a nice day after all ;0)

**Warning! Not all the photos have been edited...view at your own risk**

Stop #1....not bad

Stop #2...okay, but it was way too windy

Stop #3...we looked thrilled, huh?
Yep...this was right before it got ugly

Brian took these pictures while I was back at the car having my "time-out"...

This was at the pond where they went fishing

Vampires

2009-10-26T10:35:00.006-06:00

This past week I decided for my children that they would all be vampires! I know, I know... how horrible was that? No one would decide what they wanted to be, so I made that decision for them, and....I just love everything Twilight! I bought the material for the capes, mom made them (thank you mom...you're a lifesaver once again) and I thought they looked like the cutest little vampires. We went to the trunk-or-treat at church Friday night, had some yummy chili, and then the kids filled up on C.A.N.D.Y! Tess was definitely loving every minute of it! Brian slipped out after eating some chili (he went to the HS football game with Oscar), but Mom + Dad showed up just in time for the trunk-or-treating. The kids were more than happy to see them. After we got home...the kids dumped their bags out and started trading for their favorites. Ella was sharing and giving all her candy away to her brother + sisters...she really can be a sweetheart when she wants to be. It was AbSoLuTeLy AdOrAbLe! We had a nice night, and hey,...no one threw-up (that's always a bonus)! :0)

Awww...how cute, huh?

Ella - all tricked out!

Our Weekend

2009-10-21T09:55:00.016-06:00

This past weekend was my dad's birthday...Happy Birthday Dad! His only birthday request was for all of us to go to the Temple (mom + dad, Michael + Bekah, and Brian + I). We headed up to the Bountiful Temple Saturday morning and wow, what a special day. We were able to do a lot of work for my mom's family...my grandparents were sealed to their parents and my grandpa was even sealed to his sister. We have a lot more work that needs to be done, but it was a wonderful day to be in the temple with my family! Thanks to Bekah's dad, Jan, for helping us out as well. He's a hoot, and we enjoyed his company!

After the temple, we headed over to the Texas Roadhouse and treated ourselves to some deliciousness. We made our way back home and relaxed with the kids for the rest of the evening...we sure do miss them when we're away (don't get me wrong...it was wonderful to have our own time, but we still miss the kids).

Sunday, we went to church and they announced over the pulpit that 25% of our ward (congregation) was sick with either the flu, H1N1, or strep. YIKES! I'm teaching (okay, more like playing) in the Nursery now and they cancelled Nursery, telling parents that they needed to keep their small children with them. So, we headed home right after sacrament (Better to keep our interaction with the maybe sickly people to a minimum). Michael + Bekah drove down, mom + dad came over, and we had a nice visit with them. Bekah + I took all the kids (minus Dev) on a walk to the park to get some fresh air. They had a lot of fun, and it was nice to chat with Bekah.

Zach. is. still. sick! I don't know what else to do for the kid. I took him back to the dr on Monday and they said they think he has a sinus infection on top of the virus. They gave him an antibiotic and an inhaler (he said he was having trouble breathing) but they said his lungs sound clear. His chest hurts now after 3 weeks of a cough, and I think that is causing most of his discomfort...but no fever. Thank goodness, no fever! I'm hoping he can go back to school soon, but I hate sending him with the thought that he may catch something else and get worse. What to do...well,for now we'll just be getting his make-up work from his teacher and just pray that he gets better soon.

Until next time...love to all, Kim

Here are some photos of the kids I took on Friday

Playing with Cousins
(sorry about the poor quality of the photos)

Tess + Ella "shakin' it"

2009-10-15T14:09:00.009-06:00

I caught the girls dancing to one of their favorite tunes. This was like to 3rd video I took (I was trying to video them without them knowing...that didn't work)
Enjoy!

** Pause music (below right) before pushing play**

Fall Break

2009-10-15T11:50:00.007-06:00

Today is the 1st day of our Fall Break. The kids haven't changed out of their jammies, they've been playing since 7 AM, and I don't even know what's on the agenda for today! Isn't that great? Okay, that's not completely true....I vaguely remember that our Library books are due today, so maybe we'll head over to the Library? However, I don't know if I'll be able to convince the kids to leave the house. We'll see.

Now, let me rewind to 2 weeks ago. Zach had been begging us for a few weeks to go camping so we decided that General Conference weekend would be a good time to go. Mike + Heidi came along and we ended up having such a nice time. We DVR'd General Conference and we were able to listen to some of talks on the radio...it was nice! We brought Griff + Gracie, and Mike + Heidi brought their 2 dogs, Gus + Woody....5 kids, 4 adults, and 4 dogs. It sounds chaotic but it really wasn't. The kids got along great...they just played, played + played some more. Friday, as soon as Brian got home from work, we headed out to go and pick up the travel trailer we rented and then we headed south to Palisades. We stayed there Friday night, Saturday night, and on Sunday we decided to extend the fun another day. Brian took Monday off, so we headed over to Yuba and stayed there Sunday night. Monday we packed up, cleaned the trailer + headed out. We stopped at the Red Barn in Santaquin for some YUMMY ice cream, returned the trailer, and headed home to un-pack. We sure were tired when we got home, but we had a blast! (I'll post pictures later)

Zach finally got his cast off a couple weeks ago...everything is healing nicely, but the poor boy has been sick ever since. The 1st day back to school after our camping trip he came home sick, and he's had this nasty cough ever since. He was out of school Tuesday - Friday, so Friday I took him to the doctor. No Strep (thank goodness) he just has a nasty virus, nothing to be too worried about. But, the Doctor did hear wheezing on his right side when he listened to his lungs so we'll be keeping close tabs on that! He was back to school this week so hopefully he's on the mend!

That's it! I think I'm caught up! I hope all of you are doing well. Happy thoughts, Kim

Real

2009-10-08T22:58:00.003-06:00

As I was reading Bekah's blog tonight before I headed off to bed, I was motivated to make this blog a little more "real". I wouldn't want everyone out there thinking that Brian, Kim + kids are always doing fun things + having a blast. We're just like the rest of you. However, I must admit that most of my blog posts revolve around fun activities, sports, birthdays, get-togethers and all kinds of happy occasions, you know, the "Kodak moments" that I've just downloaded off the camera...not exactly what I would call the most realistic picture of our day-to-day lives. We do have fun, don't get me wrong, but I rarely take the time to sit and vent about the down-right yucky occurrences that sometimes, okay, all-too-often make up our days. So, from here on out, I'll be journaling more, or at least trying to. (I'll try not to wait until I've taken pictures of something fun before I post a new entry) I'll be the first to admit...I love photos! So, maybe I'll just have to start carrying my camera with me everywhere and snap the photos of Tess + Lauren fighting over toast at breakfast, or Ella throwing a temper-tantrum because she didn't get to go outside and play the exact minute she wanted to, or maybe Zach shoving Lauren out of his chair that he "double-locked" before he went to the bathroom. Okay, maybe those aren't really images that need to be remembered...I'll just see how it goes. Until next time, love to all, Kim

Create

2009-09-18T16:41:00.011-06:00

I came across this video today...wow! What an inspiring talk!
Sorry, I don't know how to make it so you can see the whole screen of the video, if you'd rather, go here to watch it...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhLlnq5yY7k
(if you watch, remember to pause the music below on the right)

Tubing down the Provo River

2009-09-16T15:01:00.003-06:00

Labor Day, Brian decided that he wanted to go tubing down the Provo River. So, we went! Dad had to work, so we coerced Mom into going along. We sang songs, laughed, ran into tree branches, scraped our booties on rocks...it was great! I was a little apprehensive about this, but it was a piece of cake. I'm still not sure whether Ella enjoyed herself, but she says she'll go again. After, we headed to BYU Creamery for some yummy burgers, fries + ice cream. We were sad that Dad missed out but we'll drag him next time. Love to all, Kim

the only photo of that day

2009-09-16T14:48:00.003-06:00

My Mom + I re-did my flower beds a little. Actually, it was more like this...mom told me what to buy, where to put it, and then she planted everything while I mixed up the root-stimulator and weeded. I gave her my input when I was asked and everything turned out beautiful! Thanks to her for all of her hard work...I love you Mom!

Our 1st Broken Bone

2009-09-16T14:05:00.003-06:00

Zach did it...he won the award for the 1st broken bone! I thought surely it would have been Tess, but Zach, with a little help from his buddy Jose, proved me wrong. It happened on the 2nd day of school (he fell off of Jose's scooter), but when I took him to have his x-rays they told me it looked okay. 10 days later it was still bothering him a bit (especially after some crazy tube-riding behind Josh's boat) so I took him in for more x-rays. Sure enough, the swelling had gone down enough that they could see the fracture. He's doing fine...his cast is smelling a little funky so he sprays it with his Axe deodorant every day, but other than that he's great.

Before

After

Boating with our Friends

2009-09-16T10:19:00.004-06:00

We have been boating serveral times now with our friends Josh + Rebekah, and it's a BLAST every time. Eventually we'll get our own boat, but until then, it's nice to have friends who invite us along. We have so much fun. The girls have become a little apprehensive on the tube (they've watched Josh flip Zach + Michael and now they are a little freaked out) but they love to take slow rides and swim in the lake. Rebekah + I scream like the little girls when we get on....I'm sure we're a sight to be seen :-o We love the water and it's been so nice to take advantage of these last few opportunities before it starts getting too cold. I hope all is well with all of you....much love, Kim

Pretty sun ring

Ella pulling the girls...
Ella

Ella, Ben + Sandra

Whoo-hoo...bumper tubes

This past weekend we went out again, and Brian thought he'd give the wakeboard a try. He had rented a slalum ski to bring along, but he's now decided that he likes wakeboarding better (regardless of how sore he was for the next few days). Way to go honey, lookin' good ;-)

First Day of School

2009-08-22T09:08:00.003-06:00

Zach-6th Grade

Lauren-5th Grade

Tess-4th Grade

Ella-1 more year until Kindergarten

Look at me!!

2009-08-22T09:01:00.002-06:00

Ella taught herself how to ride without her training wheels! We're so proud of her! She tried several times last summer, only to ask her daddy to please put them back on. She finally decided that she REALLY WAS ready....she just took off! Way to go baby girl!

Last Day of Summer Break

2009-08-22T08:47:00.003-06:00

When Rebekah Schreiner called Wednesday morning I felt horrible! She wanted us to go with them and have some fun.....it was, after all, our last day of summer break :o( I took a Claritin and we headed out. It was SO MUCH FUN! We headed over to Daybreak to play at their beach and playground. The kids busied themselves building a resevoir with rivers/creeks flowing down to the water. They got along so well together and after a short while I was feeling better myself (I guess it WAS allergies). We packed up, stopped for some lunch, and then headed over to this cute little water park! It wasn't busy at all...the kids pretty much had it all to themselves! It was the perfect ending to our summer break. Great fun with great friends!

Fun at Daybreak

Playin' in the sun!

Tess turns 9!

2009-08-19T21:52:00.005-06:00

Well, thank goodness I still have my little Ella because Tess and Lauren are getting WAY too BIG! I can't believe Tess is 9 now! My little Tessie always wants to have a HUGE party for her birthday, and because it's in the summer we always have fun! Well, this year I wanted to simplify things a bit (I don't know if I would use the word simple to describe all the festivities that seemed to go along with her birthday this weekend, but it was worth a shot, wasn't it?)!

First of all, the night of her actual birthday, Brian decided that he was hungry for some Prime Rib, so he told Tess that he would take her out to Texas Roadhouse for Dinner! Brian enjoyed every bite, and Tess loved taking another ride on the birthday saddle. After dinner, we took Tess to spend some of her birthday money from Grandma + Grandpa and she picked out a Children's Songbook for her scripture bag at church. Thanks Grandma + Grandpa for the new purse and songbook :c)

The next day, Tess decided that it would be fun to invite a few friends to go and play at the most AWESOME park EVER. So, we loaded everything into the truck, got some pizzas, cake (or maybe not the cake) + we were off to the park. Thanks to Nannie + Papa for swinging by our house and picking up her cake that we forgot....we didn't realize it until we were already at the park 35 minutes away...WOOPS! It was a lot of fun and the girls were so well behaved. They just played and played and played some more. It finally started raining, so we packed up and called it a night!

Birthday Fun at the park!

The next morning I was busy making some YUMMY ice cream pies that we would have later that evening, and then we got ready to meet Uncle Mikey + Aunt Bekah at Papa's work for a big carnival. The party was catered and we enjoyed some yummy pulled pork! The kids played some games, got some cotton candy + snow cones and even received some cute little badges with their pictures. It was a lot of fun...and then we were off to meet Barb, Ian and Marley who were in town from Ohio. We headed over to our favorite movie theater to see G-Force. Tess had wanted to see G-Force, so we wanted to wait and see it with her cousins while they were down here for Papa's work party. It was so fun to see + visit with everyone...we were so glad we got to "catch-up" with Barb.

Happy Birthday Tess! We love you so much!

Days of '47 Rodeo

2009-07-30T15:22:00.005-06:00

After a fun day in the sun, on the boat, we went to the RODEO. Let me explain...We (meaning the kids and I, Brian was already a fan) became fans of the rodeo during our days in Tucson. We went every year to the Tucson Rodeo and the kids LOVED it! Last year when we went to Steamboat Springs, we went to the rodeo. It just so happened that there was a PBR Event going on the day after we arrived in town for our vacation. Well, the kids just sit and stare...they are mesmerized by the cowboys + cowgirls riding around making it look so easy.

After we arrived, we quickly found our seats and settled down to enjoy the show. Ella noticed right away that there were people walking up and down the aisles selling things. Well, she kept raising her hand, trying to flag them down. We ended up buying some Kettle Corn, Cotton Candy + Lemonade, and at one point Ella tried to flag down the Glow-Stick guy who was way across the stadium. It was HILARIOUS! We had fun, but the car ride home was another story. Everyone was tired and cranky....it wasn't pretty! We can't wait until next year!

Lauren + Tess...Yee-Haw

The Rodeo Clowns

Honoring the Animal Athletes

Whiplash (the sheep-herding/dog-riding monkey) + his trainer

The Finale....the laser show

Boating with the Schreiner's

2009-07-30T14:44:00.003-06:00

Last year when we went boating with the Schreiner's we had a blast, and this year was even better! We headed out around 10 am and it was looking really overcast. By the time we launched the boat at the lake, it had started to sprinkle. It wasn't cold, but I was hoping the sun would come out...and it did. The kids immediately wanted to start tubing and so tubing it was! A little while later...Josh dropped the anchor, we ate lunch, the sun came out, we swam + floated for a while (Zach + Michael swam about 1/2 mile to the shore and back), the kids wanted more of the tube, Michael, Ashley, Lauren, Zach + Tess tried their best to waterski, and then we had to call it a day! It was a BLAST, and Brian wants to get a boat more now than ever. Thanks to the Schreiner's for more memories on their boat!

Tess, Lauren + Ashley...hangin' on for dear life

Michael, Tess + Zach

What a ride!
Surfin' on the tube

Kim, Ella, Sandra + Rebekah

Ella bean

Zach underwater

1....2....3....JUMP!

Ella chillin' on the boat

Pioneer Day Celebrations

2009-07-30T13:30:00.007-06:00

July 24th...Pioneer Day (also archaically called the Day of Deliverance) is an official holiday celebrated on July 24 in the U.S. state of Utah, with some celebrations in regions of surrounding states originally settled by Mormon pioneers. It commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847, where the Latter-day Saints settled after being forced from Nauvoo, Illinois and other locations in the eastern United States. Parades, fireworks, rodeos, and other festivities help commemorate the event. In addition to being an official holiday in Utah, Pioneer Day is considered a special occasion by many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On Pioneer Day, some Latter-day Saints walk portions of the Mormon Trail or reenact entering the Salt Lake Valley by handcart. Even Latter-day Saints outside of the U.S. occasionally sing Mormon folk music around July 24 in remembrance of the pioneer era. (Just thought that some of you might not know what Pioneer Day is all about...I didn't know until we moved here!)

For our celebration, we had a fun bbq with our neighbors the Alba's and the Schreiner's. We enjoyed chips and Tracy's homemade salsa, bbq chicken, sweet corn on the cob, salad, potatoe salad, rolls...etc, etc. It was DELICIOUS and Zachary is still talking about how yummy the chicken was. The kids played, the adults visited, and then our neighbors put on a little fireworks show on the island out front. How FUN...We had such a nice night.

Ella-messy, chocolatey face

Gaby

Ashley

Silly, giggly girls

Lauren + Gaby

Lauren

Fishing at St. Mary's

2009-07-23T14:02:00.002-06:00

Brian, Uncle Lee + Grandpa took Zach fishing at St. Mary's...Zach loved it! This started the fishing theme that our vacation seemed to have this year. If Zach wasn't shooting gophers, then he was fishing...I guess it must be a boy thing, huh? If anyone has any photos of us, could you please forward them to me....we forgot our camera several times this year and I am missing some fun events, Thanks! Enjoy our memories of Canada...

Two Medicine + East Glacier Lodge

2009-07-23T11:07:00.012-06:00

A few days after we arrived, we decided to go head down to Two Medicine. The men rented boats to go fishing and the women played at the shore with most of the kids. Uncle Lee brought his row boat/dinghy so they took turns rowing that out. Aunt Kaylene took Lauren + Tess for a nice ride over to the shore where we were having lunch. THEN, Jenny + Falynn drifted so far out that they couldn't paddle back, so they had to be rescued...and THEN Seth and Kanzie got caught out in a nasty, wicked storm! They were dripping wet and cold by the time they made it back to the cars. We packed up and headed over to the East Glacier Lodge. It was really pretty! Other than the weather cutting our time short at the lake, it was a nice outing! Enjoy the pictures...

How pretty is that?

Ella, Grandpa + Zach
Grandpa + Dyllen

The Crew

Jared, Caleb, Adam, Zach + Dyllen

Lauren, Ella, Tess, Falynn + Jenny

Ella + her Native buddy

My baby girl!

EllaElla + Caleb...BFF :-)

East Glacier Lodge

Golfing + Games at the Reunion Center

2009-07-22T15:33:00.006-06:00

Longest Drive competition, chipping into the hula-hoops, swinging on the swings, playing with Aunt Shauna + Jenny's puppy Bella, and an adult game of Frisbee-golf...what a great way to have fun!

A Rip-Roarin' Good time

2009-07-22T15:24:00.004-06:00

We all LOVE to ride the quads...we don't have pictures of all of us, but we all rode and we had so much fun! Thanks to Lee + Allen for letting us borrow their sweet rides :-)

Zach + Jared

Uncle Bri + Dyllen

Fishing

2009-07-17T16:38:00.005-06:00

Brian and his brother Allen took Zach, Lauren, Tess + Falynn fishing. The kids, and the "big boys" had a blast! Brian + I had a little disagreement earlier that day SO.... I enjoyed the day (and the whole evening as well) reading Stephanie Meyer's novel "The Host". Ella's not in any of these photos because she stayed behind with me and played with her cousin Caleb most of the day...they were so cute with each other this summer!

Lauren's catch

Zach

Falynn's catch

Tess + her fishy

Lauren...reeling it in

Brian helping Lauren

Uncle Al + Falynn

Zach

Lauren

The Flathead River

2009-07-17T15:37:00.006-06:00

Our last day of vacation was spent in West Glacier whitewater rafting down the Flathead. We've been rafting before, but this was a little different. They had a few class 3 rapids and all the kids were with us. Yes, you know I was paranoid that someone was going to flip out of the boat and I wasn't relaxed until we were done. With that being said, I really did have a lot of fun (I was worried about the safety of the kids, but it was still exciting). Uncle Al, Tess + Brian braved the freezing glacier water and jumped in....CRAZY, I know! Oh, and Brian dipped Ella in while holding on to her life-jacket and she was cold the rest of the time. Thanks to Aunt Cheryl and Grandma who cuddled her in the back of the raft trying to warm her up :-) After rafting we grabbed some dinner with everyone at the A+W in Columbia Falls, MT....this is where Tess managed to spill her rootbeer float 2 times (once on her legs + all over the floor, and then the 2nd time on Lauren's lap). We don't call her Tessy-Messy for nothin' ;-) After cleaning the girls up we were on the road heading back home. What a great ending to our fun vacation!

Aunt Shauna + the girls @ the top of Logan's Pass

Grabbing some lunch before Rafting

Morgan, Nedra + 5 of their 7 children

(l-r) Kaylene, Shauna, Nedra, Allen, Morgan, Brian + Cheryl

All of us

Ella...self-portrait

2009-06-27T08:56:00.003-06:00

taken June 13, 2009

Father's Day

2009-06-27T08:26:00.004-06:00

Father's Day started off with the kids giving Brian a new tie that he could wear to church, and his musical (M C Hammer's "Can't Touch This") card. As he opened his card from the kids, Tess started bustin' a move. Oh, we were all just about to die laughing....that's our Tess! (Brian picked out his "real gift" at Cabela's....new fly fishing "stuff")
At church Brian was treated to chocolate-dipped pretzels rods and a nacho bar....yummy, huh? After church, Brian + Dad decided that they wanted to pack up our food and head for the mountains. Brian drove up to Park City then around through Kamas to Mirror Lake. Well, it was looking a little stormy the further up/closer we got to the lake. By the time we reached the lake it was nasty....windy, cold + rain/hail. It was SO cold (40 degrees) but we ate and had a fun time. Brian took the girls for a walk/jog to see the lake and then we headed out! It was such a pretty drive! We took off back past Jordanelle Resevoir, Deer Creek and then he took us to Hope Campground where he + Zach stayed for Zach's Campout...it was pretty much an all-day drive. Good company, lots of pretty scenery...we had a great day!

Buffalo momma + calf right outside of Kamas

Provo River Falls

Curly-Do

2009-06-23T16:09:00.002-06:00

It was a lot of fun having curly hair for a day! Thanks Heidi for curling my hair with your super-cool iron!

Rock-on Lauren

2009-06-23T15:54:00.003-06:00

Lauren was invited to her friend Haley's birthday party....they needed to dress-up as rock stars! Well, thanks to my dear friend Heidi (credit to her for her hair and make-up genius) Lauren was a hit! Rock Band, hide-n-seek in the dark (glow sticks and earrings provided) + a game of "rock trivia" were her favorites at the party! I'm so glad she had fun!

While Lauren was partying, we were able to go to Leatherby's and celebrate Colton's 4th birthday! What a cutie he is! After dinner and ice cream we went on a beautiful drive and let the kids play at a park! It was so much fun and we were so happy to be there! We love you Colton!

Zach's new addition

2009-06-23T14:49:00.005-06:00

June 11th was a day Zach will not soon forget. During a Well-Check/Physical at the Pediatrician, we learned that Zachary needed 3 shots. Uh-oh! (I remember shortly after we moved here, we took the kids to get their flu shots and Zach threw such a fit that Brian had to hold him down!) This time he was very brave, but he was NOT happy (and he let me know it)!! After the shots, we were on our way to the Orthodontist to get his braces on. I KNOW....Poor boy! Well, he survived it all, and the braces don't even seam to be bothering him much lately! I love you buddy!

Before...

After!

More Vacation

2009-06-22T14:23:00.010-06:00

Okay, so here are some more pictures of our vacation. Brian, Papa + Zach headed off to the Diamondbacks game while Nannie + I took the girls shopping. We had a lot of fun at the mall and the guys had a blast!

Chase Field...Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Atlanta Braves

See-ya later girlies!

Brian + Zach

Zach + Papa

Zach + the Foam Finger

After lounging in the pool all morning, Brian + Zach convinced us all that we just had to go to the store! Well, this wasn't just ANY store, mind you, this was the Bass Pro Shop! So, after eating a yummy lunch at In-n-Out, we headed straight there. Tess + Ella went fly fishing, the kids took a bb gun safety class, we walked around, and we walked around some more...we checked it all out! What a fun place; what a fun time!

In-n-Out

Bass Pro Shop

2009-06-09T16:54:00.005-06:00

A few years ago I gave Brian a card for our anniversary:

Sometimes I fall in love with you

when I listen to you talk to other people.

Whether you're being interesting and funny

or warm and caring and genuinely concerned,

you have a way of making people feel better

with nothing more than your words.

Sometimes I fall in love with you

just remembering all the memories we've made...

falling in love for the first time,

staying in love during the rough times,

finding more to love about each other every day.

And whenever I think about

the wonderful things that lie ahead of us,

I fall totally and completely in love with you

all over again.

I know, I know...totally corny, huh? But, it's the truth! I love you Bri...Happy Anniversary!

The Newlyweds

Arizona Vacation (Part 1)

2009-06-05T14:57:00.011-06:00

Let me first start out by saying "Arizona was wonderful!" We were SOOooo excited to go back to Arizona that we decided to make a vacation of it! We left Saturday morning and we made up our minds that we were going to take our time travelling! Our first stop was at an Antique store in Helper. For those of you that know Nannie, you know she loves the antique stores! Brian showed us where he lived while he served there on his mission, and then we made our way down Highway 6. As we came into Price, we decided that we needed to stop at the Dinosaur Museum...that was more fun than I thought it would be. The kids liked it a lot and Lauren took about 100 pictures, documenting everything she thought was neat. We then decided we could wait for lunch, and we headed down the road toward Arches. Upon arriving in Arches/Moab we quickly realized that we could spend several days in that area (we'll have to plan another trip later), so we had a picnic lunch and headed down the road. Brian took us through another one of the areas he served in on his mission, Mexican Hat, and we also stopped at Gooseneck State Park. We finally made it to our hotel in Kayenta, AZ in time to go to bed. Phew! It was really a long day, but we had a blast!

Dinosaur Museum

Getting the wiggles out!

Wilson Arch

Gooseneck State Park

Coming Soon...

2009-06-01T16:57:00.004-06:00

Okay, we've been gone on a vacation to AZ and now we're back. I promise as soon as I get all the un-packing/laundry done I'll post all about it...until then, this will have to do! Love, Kim

This is a preview of where we lived for a week

More Soccer

2009-05-17T15:11:00.006-06:00

I know, I know....more soccer pictures. The girls were on fire this game!! Lauren scored 2 goals and Tess was goalie. This was the first time Tess played goalie and it was a little scary at first. However, after Papa walked down to give her some pointers he stayed there beside the goal and was encouraging her the rest of the half...she was all over that ball. I sure was proud of them both. Way to go Lauren + Tess! Zach's team didn't have a game this week...he was devastated, as you can imagine ;-)

Lauren getting high-fives

Tess-Goalie

Tess posing after the game

Brian wasn't able to make the games...he was off rock-hounding with our neighbor Mike. Heidi and I were left to entertain the kids all day. After soccer we headed over to the IHOP for breakfast and then we relaxed at the park for a few hours. We picked up some sandwiches at the store for dinner and then we went to the dollar theater to watch "Paul Blart: Mall Cop". It was such a fun day, but boy, oh, boy were we exhausted! Until next time....love, Kim

Lauren-creative photographer

Mother's Day Weekend

2009-05-13T13:00:00.007-06:00

Mother's Day weekend was a lot of fun for our family....we had soccer Saturday morning and then we packed up and headed out to go dig for geodes. What are geodes you ask?....well,

Geodes (Greek γεώδης - geodes, "earthlike") are geological rock formations which occur in sedimentary and certain volcanic rocks. Geodes are essentially rock cavities or vugs with internal crystal formations or concentric banding. The exterior of the most common geodes is generally limestone or a related rock, while the interior contains quartz crystals and/or chalcedony deposits. Other geodes are completely filled with crystal, being solid all the way through. These types of geodes are called nodules.

Here's a picture:

Those of you that know me are laughing right now, imagining me digging for these rocks, I know. It's WAY more Brian's thing than mine, but our neighbor Mike was just as excited as Brian was about this (Mike + Heidi had already been the weekend before). Heidi and I set up, fed everyone, visited, and took a walk down a long dusty road. It was fun, but we took Griff + Gracie and Zach was paranoid that they were going to run off and never come back, or eat something weird and die! He was so freaked out and angry that he couldn't enjoy himself. We ended up getting home late and everyone showered and went to bed.

Church was great on Sunday. Brian gave a talk and he did a wonderful job. All the women in our ward got a box of chocolate dipped strawberries...YUMMY! I saw our Relief Society President's kitchen light on WAY past her bedtime on Saturday night, so I know she was working hard to make it a special day for all of us...thanks Rebekah! We spent the afternoon with my mom + dad and then Michael + Bekah brought the kids down later for dessert. Thanks again to Michael + Bekah for the good smelling candle and the thoughtful card (how was that Michael? ha, ha, ha). I feel so fortunate to have such a wonderful family...Zach, Lauren, Tess + Ella you are all such blessings in my life. Thanks for you sweet cards and my pretty bracelet!

To our mother's: "A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts." - Washington Irving

Brian and I are so grateful for your love and concern and we appreciate the examples you are to our children. We love you both so much! Happy Mother's Day, again!

Here are some pictures of our little adventure:

Lauren + Tess' Soccer

2009-05-11T16:03:00.005-06:00

Here are some cute photos from Lauren + Tess' soccer game. Lauren + Tess played Forwards most of the game, so this meant they could run the whole field. Lauren gets very determined and even a little competitive, while Tess on the other-hand just wants to be part of the action. We have so much fun watching them! Lauren got a ball to the face and ended up with a bloody nose, but she hung in there and played the rest of the game...we were really proud of her. Way to go Lauren +Tess!

Zach's Soccer Saturday

2009-05-11T16:02:00.002-06:00

It was so fun to watch Zach's soccer game Saturday morning. He's on a 5th/6th grade team, and it seams as though they are finally learning to dribble and pass the ball. Lauren + Tess' 3rd/4th grade teams still hover and just follow the ball around the field. The older kids do better at spreading out and playing positions. Regardless, Zach's really not fond of playing soccer. Okay, I'll be honest...he HATES it, but his coach says that he has a lot of "natural athletic ability". If he would just apply himself, he'd do great! Well, hopefully he'll start enjoying it...meanwhile, we'll just be there cheering him on. Go Zach!

Ella had a blast at the playground

Pictures from Pocatello

2009-05-11T16:00:00.003-06:00

Easter 2009

2009-04-27T10:59:00.005-06:00

We're still alive, and we're all doing great! However, I have been neglecting my obligation as a mom to blog about our daily doings. We had a wonderful Easter, and a not-so-great Spring Break. The weather was horrible (more like winter), and the kids felt a little like caged animals. I went with Mom, Heidi + her mom, and all the kids to see the new Hannah Montana movie (Zach was thrilled as you can imagine-actually at that point I think he was just happy to get out of the house). Anyhow, the movie was cute and I believe it was the highlight of their whole break. We went with Brian to Ogden for his Environmental Fair at the Nature Center and we were able to spend some time with Bekah and the kids. It was nice to just relax and play with them for an afternoon, and then this past weekend we were able to go with Brian to Pocatello for the Environmental Fair there. We spent the weekend swimming in the pool at the hotel...the kids were in heaven.

So, we're home, getting back to our daily routine, and trying to catch our breathe. Until next time...Hugs and kisses, Kim

EASTER 2009

My Sweet little Ella

2009-03-25T21:04:00.003-06:00

The other day Ella and I were running errands with my mom, and this is what we did to kill some time as we were waiting for her...ENJOY!

Oh, by the way...you'll want to pause the music before you try to watch the video.

Lybbe's Baptism

2009-03-25T15:15:00.003-06:00

What a special day we had on the 7th. We travelled up for Lybbe's baptism and it was so nice. We're so proud of her! She's such a good girl and a great helper to Michael + Bekah. You are so loved Lybbe, always remember that! We were so happy to be with you on your special day!

Devan's Birthday

2009-03-25T14:57:00.005-06:00

It's hard to believe that Dev is "9". They came over on Saturday and we had a lot of fun. The weather was beautiful, so we were able to break out the grill. We had delicious bbq chicken, and hot dogs...yummy, yummy! The kids played outside and the adults, well, we were actually able to carry on a conversation. How nice is that? Happy birthday "Big D" ...we love you more than words!

Women

2009-03-25T13:56:00.003-06:00

I LOVE this, and when I read it I knew that I wanted to post it on my blog...thanks Melinda!

Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.

They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
and laugh when they are nervous.

They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.

They don't take "no" for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.

They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards.

They are happy when they hear about
a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they
think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss
can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you
to show how much they care about you.

The heart of a woman is what
makes the world keep turning.

They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their
family and friends.

Women have vital things to say
and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.