Makin' Memories in Kansas

2011-08-24T07:03:00.000-07:00

Back To School We Go!!!!

2011-08-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

This is a BIG year for Cardon. He's out of Elementary School and into Middle School. It's hard for me to accept it!!!! 6th Grade is going to be a big transitional year for him--Lot's of responsibility! He has 8 classes per day on an A/B day rotation. He has to wear P.E. clothes--I had to buy him deodorant!!!!!! Yes, it is true!!!! We went to the school a few days before it officially started to get him his planner and locker assignment. He thought I was the lamest mom ever for wanting to take a picture of him in front of his locker--So this is the best I got out of him. The lockers go in alphabetical order so lucky for him he is lockering next to one of his best friends--Brady V. We fiddled around for a few minutes figuring out how to work the locker. As Cardon practiced I looked around to see girls putting up wall paper in their lockers as well as magnets, mirrors, magnetized hand sanitizer, even mini battery powered chandeliers. I AM NOT JOKING!!! It's a whole new world! I told Cardon that maybe we should get him a little mirror just so that he could make sure that his teeth didn't have any left overs from lunch in them. He said he didn't need it. Boys!!!! Amelia was especially excited to find out who her teacher would be. All year in Kindergarten she couldn't wait for 1st grade so that she could stay at school all day and have lunch in the Cafeteria.

Brinly got the brand new 4th Grade teacher. She has just finished her schooling and was hired 2 days before "Meet the Teacher Day". Talk about stressful. She was so cute and energetic-I think she will be wonderful!

Amelia found her desk and got acquainted with her teacher. It's going to be a great year!

Cardon had to go to school the day before school officially began. 6th graders had to spend a couple hours learning the lay of the land before they were thrown to the wolves. He woke up at 5:30 am because he was so anxious and nervous. BJ was out of town so I didn't sleep very sound. I heard Cardon get up and go downstairs. I went to see if everything was OK. He was already dressed and ready to go. Now he only had to wait 1hour and 45 minutes for his ride to pick him up!!! He looked all grown up!

The next day Brinly and Amelia were off about an hour after Cardon, wearing their new school clothes--ready to go! Silly Girls!!!!!

I'm glad my girls are such good friends. I know Brinly will watch out for Amelia. I love sisters!!!!

Jace won't start school for a few more weeks. He got up anyway and took charge of Tucker. We walked the kids up to the corner and waved good bye. Today will be just me and him. I don't mind it one bit!

This year our neighbors have both of their girls at school. Ashley will be in pm Kindergarten and will get to ride home with the girls after school. We live in a great neighborhood full of wonderful people. I hope they have a great 1st day of school!!!!!!!

Our Last Family Outing Before School Starts--Deanna Rose

2011-08-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Saturday before school started we decided to take the kids to Deanna Rose Park after lunch for a few hours. It's been the hottest and most humid summer ever and so we've mostly spent it at the pool. But it was overcast and not too hot so we thought we'd give it a go. We pulled up and sure enough the clouds parted and the sun beat down on us. It was going to be HOT! Oh, well. First things first--we bought a pass that included all of the activities (I never do this, so we only ever do the free things). The kids were ecstatic! They could finally ride the ponies. So we headed over to that FIRST.

Then we got to meet the new calf at the park and feed it some lunch.

Thank goodness they had some sprayers to cool off. After we were sufficiently soaking wet, we moved on.

This park is made into an old pioneer town. So, the kids learned what it meant to go outside and get some water. They raced to see who could fill up the bucket first.

I always love feeding the pygmy goats. They all crowd around the kids when they know that they are carrying food. It reminds me of when I bring out Popsicle's on a hot summer day and the kids all attack me to pick the color they want first.

Amelia's trying to look coy when what she's really doing is trying to avoid the goat from eating her shirt.

The gardens are usually full of beautiful flowers but the heat has been so bad I took pictures of my own beautiful flowers instead-my kids!

Cardon has a good sense of humor and went along with my proddings!

We took a walk in nature where it was a bit shady. Jace kept announcing that he was sure we were lost. We did find our way back around though--the big loop helped us out!

Jace will be in his 2nd yr. of pre-school this year. Right away he found HIS letter--J for Jace!

We ended the day with some delicious ice cream to cool us off. Happy summer kiddos-Now Back To School You Go!!!!!!

Ahhh! The Heat!!!! Must Go To Pool!!!

2011-07-25T09:15:00.000-07:00

This summer has been the hottest, most humid summer of my life---and I lived in Arizona for 3 years!!! We had record heat and humidity this year--the hottest in 25 years. The worst part about it has been that there hasn't been any breaks. So, we have literally spent the entire summer at the pool. Everyday we get up, get our work done, have lunch and then head to the pool. I take a giant thing of ice water and all sorts of snacks and then we spend 4-5 hours playing in the water. Jace took swimming lessons this year and after 2 weeks he was swimmin'! He was so proud of himself--and he should be! Swimming is quite a feat!

Cardon loved to show me that he could throw Jace high in the air and then Jace could swim back to him. They would laugh and then do it all over again. It was a great brotherly bonding time together.

Amelia loved to show me her perfect float. She learned how to do different swimming strokes this summer but the float is her favorite. She looks quite dead, but she isn't.

Jace spent a lot more time swimming this year with the girls and Cardon because they loved seeing that he could do it and he loved showing them.

It's always fun to bring friends to the pool. Katie and Brinly are good friends.

I decided it was a good day to teach the kids some new pool tricks. When I was a kid we spent a lot of time at the pool each summer and I was especially daring. I could do all sorts of flips off of the diving boards. So, I figured I ought to teach the kids a few things. Each of them learned how to do a back dive off of the side of the pool. It was so fun to see one of them get it and then cheer on the rest with all sorts of advice.

Once they all had it down I had them do it all together! Thank goodness for digital cameras. It took quite a few takes to get this just right!

Then Cardon decided once he'd perfected the back dive to take it one step further--The Back Flip!!!!! He got it down and was quite impressive on his height!

My great friend Olivia usually accompanied me to our pool with her 3 kids---Aiden, Mia, and Jack. We spent many delightful afternoons here sipping our Sonic cherry limeades.

Here is the usual group. They are all growing up so fast. I hope that they will always remember the summer where life slowed way down as they swam there little hearts out!!!!

School is around the corner my friends!!!!!

Cardon's Season End Baseball Game

2011-07-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

For the last 2 years Cardon has played for the "Gators". It's been so much fun to watch him improve over the last 3 years of playing and this year was no exception. His team is great--lots of friends from school and the parents make it a blast. This season Cardon was soon recognized as the "Black Hole". He just seemed to be able to catch anything that came his way. They had a great season and went into the final game playing for first place. The inning started off slow with quite a few mistakes but Cardon got the 3rd out when a super high pop fly came his way and he caught it! Let me tell you--the crowds were cheering! The entire game was close and we were all on the edges of our seats every inning. I almost wet my pants because I couldn't bear to leave and miss a moment. BJ was the assistant coach this year. It was fun to see him interact with the boys and cheer them on. I felt pride in him as I watched him work with the team.
Most of us moms couldn't even sit down because it was such a nail biter. These are a few of my friends and baseball moms--Jennifer, Suzanne and Kathy with no nails left to chew on!

One of the parents got us this little good luck charm when they went to Florida this summer. Go Gators!!!!!

The boys always have fun in the dug out. I've never seen so much Big League Chew and Sunflower Seeds!

When all was said and done----WE LOST!!!!! We were all so disappointed in the outcome, but the boys played hard and had a great season!

Cardon got his trophy for 2nd place. There are good memories here on these fields this season.

Way to go Gators! You got'm next year!!!!!!!!!!

The 4th of July

2011-07-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

This year for the 4th of July our Ward had a pancake breakfast. We spent the day before decorating bikes so that we could be festive for the bike parade. The kids always have a great time doing it and I always have to remind myself to let them do it by themselves. They did a great job! My face looks like if I poked it with a sharp object, it would pop. This record heat has caused this pregnant momma to swell up like a balloon. I already can't wear my wedding ring and I'm only 3 months pregnant. It better cool down soon or else I may run into some problems. The Bike Parade

Brinly was lookin' stylish in her peace glasses and 4th of July t-shirt.

Brinly rocked the gunny sack race. She is quite the athlete!

Cardon hooked up with Aiden for the 3-legged race.

They didn't quite get it down, but they had fun doing it!

Jace and Jack decided to be buddies on the tug-o-war.

Jace means business!!!!

Amelia and Mia

After the kids Tug-o-War it was time for the adult version. BJ got up near the front and worked those athletic legs of his.

I had to get in the mix too.

Later that evening we met friends to watch fireworks.

Happy 4th of July everyone!!!!!!

Arrow of Light Ceremony

2011-04-19T07:13:00.000-07:00

Last night Cardon got his Webelos badge and his Arrow of Light. Since no one in BJ's family did scouting and neither of my brothers did scouting--we are new to this. I called the scout master the evening before the ceremony to ask if there was anything we needed to do and she said "YES!" Apparantly the Arrow of Light is a big deal and Cardon was supposed to be given a special arrow with a letter as well as a special board to mount it on--from his parents. This was news to me. I hate those moments as a parent-- when something important was supposed to be taken care of and we were going to blow it. So, BJ and I got busy. He got the wood ready and then I got it finished the next day--just in time to give it to him. Now that I understand the importance of the Arrow of Light I want to tell Cardon how proud I am of him. It took a lot of work to get this and he perservered and did it. Way to go Cardon!!!!!!

We have to take 2 of every shot because Cardon is in the stage where he has to make a funny face in every photo. So we compromise--1 good smiley shot, and then 1 funny face. I just had to put this one in there to document this stage in his life. Plus, it makes me laugh when I look at BJ.

Notice I didn't put the funny one of us. That's what happens when I am the blog master!

Way to go you crazy boy!!!!!

The Luge in Rotorua-Happy 6th Birthday Amelia!!!!

2011-03-02T08:55:00.000-08:00

Today is Amelia Rose's birthday. So we decided to celebrate it the New Zealand way with an adventure experience. We rode the tram up the mountain, put on stinky, smelly helmets, got instructions on how to ride a luge car and then took off down the mountain.
Amelia was just old enough to ride a luge car by herself. She was pretty excited (6 yrs. old is great).

The ride down was gorgeous, all through the trees.

She was pretty nervous but she did great by herself.

Even Grandma Honey took a ride down. She thought it was so fun she bought us all another pass so that we could do it again.

The kids got passes from some people leaving so while they went down again with BJ my mom and I got a snack to share. My brother in law (Wally) told me that one of the things I had to do while in NZ was get an L & P to drink. It's sort of a fizzy lemon drink. It was really good and the kids loved it.

I love my mom (adore is more like it) and I was so grateful and happy to spend a week with her and my dad in NZ. BTW--I know she looks like my sister instead of my mom. Believe it or not, she's in her 60's.

What a fun beginning to a fantastic birthday. We love you Amelia!

Rainbow Springs

2011-03-01T12:47:00.000-08:00

After doing the Zorb we headed over to Rainbow Springs to feed the rainbow trout. There is a beautiful walking trail along the stream where the rainbow trout swim, along with lots of native animals as well as the infamous "kiwi bird". At the end of the trail there is a natural spring where you can fill up your water bottles for a taste of the most deliciously clean water.

Green stone is native in New Zealand. It's beautiful and is made into lots of Maori jewelry. It's expensive so this big boy is worth a pretty penny--we had to touch it.

The Bath House in Rotorua

2011-03-01T08:41:00.000-08:00

Rotorua became known for the bathhouses that were created using the heat from the volcanos. People came from all over the world to stay for weeks and months at a time to sit in the hot sulfur water because they believed that it would heal their ailments. I think I'd feel pretty good sitting around in hot baths every day too! At some point the local volcano errupted and destoyed a lot of the area as well as killed many people. The Maori's believed that the Volcano came because of all of the greed that had come to the area. This bath house was really beautiful and they are now refurbishing it to look like it once did.

Hinemutu--The Pa in Rotorua

2011-03-01T08:16:00.000-08:00

Rotorua is full of hot water springs caused by the local volcano's. The area smells like sulfur. People used to come from all over to sit in the springs. It was believed that the water would heal your infirmities. My dad served a mission here in New Zealand. He spent a day by himself in Rotorua waiting for his new companion to arrive. This building is called a Pa. It's a gathering Holy place where the leaders of the the Maori people would meet. My dad has a picture of himself standing here in front of the Pa from his mission. His goal is to have each grandson standing here in front of the Pa just as he did. It was pretty cool to have Cardon and Jace do this.

As the Europeans came to the island, they brought with them Christianity. We had the privilege to see and old Christian church that depicted Christ walking on the water. It was so beautiful because the glass had Christ etched onto it but the water and land behind it were real.

This is a typical Moari Tiki statue. They were hand carved to keep away evil spirits.

The Drift Cars in Rotorua

2011-03-01T07:59:00.000-08:00

My dad took us over to the drift cars so that me and BJ could race Cardon. A hair net was a must before putting on the stinky, sweaty helmet. Cardon was just sure that he was going to beat us, but these cars were super fast and powerful and every movement on the wheel really affected the car. So needless to say.............

I WON!!!!!

The Agridome in Rotorua

2011-03-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

The kids loved the Agridome. A sheep herder showed us all the different kinds of sheep in New Zealand and what their wool was used for and then showed us how the dogs were trained to keep the sheep in line. Brinly and Amelia got to go on stage and milk a cow and then Cardon got to go on stage and feed the baby lambs.

Thank you Grandpa!!!!!!!

New Zealand--Here We Come!!!!

2011-02-28T10:55:00.000-08:00

Once we finally made it to New Zealand--after 25 hours of travel, we hit the ground running. My mom picked us up at the airport in the morning and we hopped in the mini van, drove 2 hours to Rotorua and spent the day doing one activity after the next. Our first stop was The Zorb. They have these great big balls with another ball inside. It's bottom is filled with water. You climb inside, they plug it up and then push you down a big hill. Brinly and Amelia are together on the left and Cardon is on the right.

Then at the bottom of the hill they unplug the opening and you experience a birthing sensation as you squeeze out. BJ and I went together. I laughed so hard I almost wet my pants but don't tell BJ!!!!

I highly recommend this if you ever visit the area!

So The Journey Begins--Spring Break, 2011

2011-02-27T11:29:00.000-08:00

We woke up on Sunday morning--our day of travel--to fog. Lot's of fog. We headed to the airport and about 5 minutes before we got there found out that our flight had been cancelled-due to fog. BJ and I felt the panick rising. He went in while I waited in the car to see what we could do. We were put on another flight taking us to Chicago instead of Colorado. The layovers would cut it closer to our departure date in L.A. but they felt like we'd be fine. When we arrived in Chicago we looked up on the screen to find that our flight was delayed by 2 hours. In order to make the 11pm flight out of L.A. to New Zealand we had to get there at least 2 hours early. Well, we didn't arrive in L.A. until after midnight. So, we missed our flight and in missing it we lost a full day in New Zealand because the next flight didn't leave until the following evening. We found a motel, crashed after a long day of travel and woke up in California. What to do all day?????

We decided to make the most of it. We rented a car and took off to spend the day at Santa Monica Pier. It was a bit chilly but beautiful.

We had lunch at Bubba Gump's on the patio basking in the sun. I looked over at a young couple eating near us. The young man was looking at our kids. I thought "I know, I know--they are stinking cute, aren't they?" He looked over at his wife and said "4 kids are wayyyyy to many!" Huh, what? Then I thought, "Oh ya, we're in California, the land of the worldly" so I didn't take offense.

We rode the Ferris Wheel. We got such a great view of the coast line up at the tippy top.

The kids played a few games.

Cardon was very proud of his winning turtle. He's got a good arm!

We hit the Merry-Go-Round and let the kids pick out a little treat.

We spent the last of the day walking on the beach. It was a great day. We headed back at dinner time and got ourselves ready to board the plane---New Zealand here we come!!!!!!

Blue and Gold Banquet

2011-02-15T20:48:00.000-08:00

Cardon received awards tonight at the Blue and Gold Banquet. They had a Star Wars Theme and they certainly went all out. They had the Jedi give out all of the badges. The boys loved it .

Jace slept through the entire event and woke up to 20 Star Wars people. He probably thought he was still dreaming. He didn't want to get near them but finally tolerated having the Jedi sit next to him for a picture.

Let Us Give Thanks

2010-11-26T17:15:00.000-08:00

This year was the first year that we were going to spend Thanksgiving with just our own little family. BJ and I discussed going out to eat but quickly decided (since Thanksgiving is BJ's favorite holiday) that we needed to do the WHOLE feast just as we always do. We usually invite families to come over but since we'd just spent the past 2 weeks fighting sickness ( 4 bouts of strep, 1 with stomach flu and a hubby with a double whammy of strep and influenza---and a grand finale with lice, that's right you heard correctly) we just didn't get around to asking which families were without a place to go. So, I casually bought all the food (the house had just been thoroughly cleaned with all the Lice and all) and got up on Thanksgiving and started all of the cooking. It was around 1pm and I was just thinking about how it was our first Thanksgiving alone and wondering if there were other families doing just the same thing when my good friend Patty called and asked what time dinner was. What a welcome surprise! Her husband and son were gone and she was alone with her daughter for the holiday. As luck would have it we had 2 extra places at our dining room table and oodles of food to share. So we had a wonderful day, full of great food (if I do say so myself) and exceptional company to spend a day full of gratitude!!! That evening the Stapley's invited us over for pie. Everyone made incredible pies and it was so much fun visiting with everyone! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!!!
Moving right along to Christmas....... In our family the Christmas Elves come by our house the evening of Thanksgiving to drop the kids off some Christmas P.J.'s and a note telling them all of the wonderful things Santa has seen them do that year and some pointers as to what they might work on that month so that he can bring them a nice gift on Christmas morning. The kids always try to catch the Elves but to no avail. This year 3 out of the 4 P.J.'s were too big so I had to do a bit of alterations. Once that was accomplished we sat down on the couch and had each of the kids read their letters. I love those letters and keep them in a special book so I can look back on each year. I love this time of year!!!! I love the Holiday Season--I'm going to try to focus on that instead of the cold!!!!

First Day of School

2010-08-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

There off--they wouldn't even turn around so that I could get a good picture of them leaving. Have a great day at school, I yelled as they rode away as fast as their little legs could carry them.
Amelia has afternoon Kindergarten. She was so excited to go but also a bit nervous. It made her feel better to see Brinly coming back from lunch right her class started. Brinly ran over and gave her a big hug. I'm so glad Amelia has 2 siblings watching out for her this year.
My little "peanut" isn't so little anymore. She begins Kindergarten with 4 missing teeth.

Love you Millie, Have a great 1st day of school!!!!!!

Meet the Teacher's

2010-08-16T21:52:00.000-07:00

A few days before school started we got to go up to the school to meet the teachers. The kids are always so excited and nervous to see who they got. Cardon was holding on to one hope--He'd be fine with any teacher, just not "the yeller". Apparently in 5th grade there is a teacher that yells a lot. I guess he doesn't like all the yelling that goes on (I'll keep that in mind at home). He is a big 5th grader this year and so that means extra responsibilities like Hall Monitoring once a week, announcements over the intercom, a school musical to learn and perform. I can't believe next year he'll be in middle school!!! He was happy with the teacher he got--actually all my kids were happy with their teacher. Amelia couldn't wait for her first day of Kindergarten. She'd been asking me all summer--practicing her letters, coloring inside the lines, you know all the important Kindergarten sorts of things.

Brinly was so excited to see lots of good friends in her class!

School is just around the corner--How exciting!!!!

The Last Few Lazy Days At The Pool

2010-08-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

This summer has been one of the funnest for me as a mom. All summer we had no plans, no vacations, just lazy days playing at the pool. Cardon had some baseball games and piano once a week but other than that we got up each morning, did our chores, spent some time doing our Summer School, packed our cooler full of cold drinks and snacks and then headed over to the pool for the afternoon. My 3 oldest can swim this year and Jace is very cautious to always wear his life jacket. So, I sat back with my book or magazine in a lounge chair and soaked up the sun . When I couldn't take the heat anymore I would get in the pool and play with the kiddos doing Turtle Rides and Cannon Balls into the deep end. It was just exactly the kind of summer I adore--Oh and the kids loved it too!!!

A Temple Sealing

2010-08-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

What a special experience I got to have this week. A friend of mine named Meggin (who since moved out of our ward boundaries) called me last month to let me know that she was going to go through the Temple for the first time with her husband (his first time as well) and be sealed as a family. She not only asked me to come but also asked me if I would be her Chaperon for that day. I'd never done that before but of course was overjoyed to say yes. BJ stayed home from work to be with the kids and I took off the day before the sealing to drive the 4 1/2 hour drive to St. Louis. My mom's dear friend Barbara let me come and spend the night at her home. She fed me dinner and we spent the evening catching up. It was really great to see her again. Early the next morning I met Meggin and her family at the Temple to be there for her each step of the way. After she took out her own endowments we spent time in the Bride's Room finding the perfect dress for her to wear as she was sealed to her family. The spirit was strong and I was so grateful to share in that moment with them as they made those covenants. I'm so grateful to be a member of this church and be sealed to my own family. I want to be with my family for eternity. That knowledge makes me try even harder to work towards that goal. What a great day spent at the Temple. Thank you Meggin for allowing me to be with you and your family on this incredible day!!!

The Gators win the League Championship

2010-07-22T09:12:00.000-07:00

Cardon has been playing on the Gators team this past season. It's been such a great group of kids and parents--it's been so much fun to go to every game. They ended up winning the League Championship--something this team hasn't ever done before. Last night we all met at a field and played a game of "Kids" versus "the parents" for our end of season party. The kids ended up winning it by 2 runs and then we headed back to the coaches house for cake and a video of the season. Way to go Gators!!!!! It blows my mind but Cardon has loved playing baseball so much this season he has decided to go on and play next season with the same team instead of football. I'm not sure how I feel about that yet--I love fall football--I'm going to miss seeing him out there in his pads, making tackles. Oh well, I'll just have get used to him chewing Big League Chew, getting stains out of his white baseball pants, and biting my fingernails with anticipation when he gets up to bat!

Summer Cooking Class

2010-07-20T10:02:00.000-07:00

This summer we are having summer camps at home. Each Tuesday afternoon between 3-4 you can count on a cooking class going on in my kitchen. This was our first lesson. Amelia and Jace made peanutty dip while Cardon and Brinly cut up all the fruit. It was delicious!!!! Then Brinly and Cardon made crusted chicken and after that was completed Cardon made biscuit rolls. It was tons of fun for all of us--dinner was made----AND, they all ate it because they were so excited to have made it. I call that a WIN/WIN in my book. Up next, craft camp with the homemade pinata---WE can't wait!!!!!

I think I might have a little chef on my hands!

Omaha Zoo and Temple Trip

2010-07-17T19:45:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we had the opportunity to go to Omaha, Nebraska. Our ward had a family temple day on Saturday morning so we left early on Friday so that we could make a trip out of it. We spent the day at the Omaha zoo. It is an amazing zoo with so many incredible exhibits. However it was HOT, HOT, HOT. Luckily we had a water bottle with us that we just kept refilling and there were misters all over--so we managed just fine. After seeing every single exhibit and wearing the kids out completely, we went back to the hotel and let them swim for an hour or so. That evening we met the ward members at a buffet restaurant. I think Cardon spent most of the evening at the ice cream bar--Oh well, we were on vacation! The next morning we got up and met the ward members with little children at the Temple Visitors Center. They were kind enough to allow us to use the basement classroom as a childcare area while all of us did a session. Several youth from a ward nearby came to help the other volunteers from our ward watch all of the kids. Our ward had all sorts of crafts and activities for them to do. They had a great time. It was such a joy to do a session at the Temple with BJ. It's been 3 years since we've been able to do that together and I loved every minute. When you don't live close to a Temple (our nearest Temple is 3 1/2 hours away) you realize how much you took it for granted when it was just minutes away. After attending the Temple we all met back at the Visitors Center Pavilion and had lunch together and then hopped in the car to drive the 3 1/2 hours back home. What a great experience for my family. I hope my kids know how much BJ and I love the Temple!!!

Whenever Jace saw a peacock he would yell out "Look guys it's another PeaHock!!!" So we all started calling them PeaHock's. I love this stage with Jace. If he doesn't know the word for something--he just makes it up. It's always quite funny!

I love to see the Temple......I'm going their someday.

Our Fieldtrip to the Marble Company

2010-07-09T15:10:00.000-07:00

The kids and I took a fieldtrip to see the Moon Marble Company. The store is filled to the rafters with toys that take you back to your childhood. It was so fun to walk around and show the kids all sorts of toys that I played with as a kid. In the back of the store they have a demonstration on how to make a glass marble. It is quite incredible. The lady doing the demonstration studied glass art in Venice, Italy. After the demonstration I let the kids pick out a tube full of marbles with a guide on how to play. After we'd had our fill of the Marble Company we headed over to Miss Hatties Tea Room to have lunch. After placing our order the kids got to go to the back of the store and get completely dressed up in tea party attire. The selection was grand. Cardon went begrudgingly but ended up getting dressed up in a military uniform and thought that was pretty cool. The lunch was wonderful and came with an endless pot of pink lemonade to drink in our little tea cups. To end the day we headed over to the neighborhood pool and swam the rest of the afternoon. I love summer!!!!!

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T21:54:00.000-07:00

Since BJ and Cardon were fishing in Alaska for the 4th of July this year it was my responsibility to make things a bit festive in my neck of the woods. The kids each decorated their bikes or scooters and we rode in the neighborhood bike parade. After we survived the heat and humidity of that we went to our ward party at the park. We enjoyed delicious food, and games and then headed for home. The next day when BJ and Cardon came home we had a great time watching fireworks with friends while roasting marshmallows and eating smores. I love this country and am proud to live here. God Bless the USA!!!!!!!

Alaska Fishing Trip

2010-07-04T09:41:00.000-07:00

Cardon had the privilege of going on an Alaskan fishing trip with his dad the last week of June. Grandpa Lewis had all his sons and son-in-laws as well as his oldest male grandchildren join him this year. Cardon had a great time catching salmon and halibut all week despite a day of throwing up on the charter due to sea sickness. He still never complained--had a great time with his Dad, Grandpa and Grandma, Uncles and Cousins and will never forget his adventures in Alaska--Oh, and he brought me home 100lbs. of fish to enjoy--I can handle that!!!!!

Catching Firefly's

2010-06-30T12:54:00.000-07:00

One thing that we love about living here in Kansas is the firefly's. My kids hadn't ever seen one of these lit up bugs until we moved here. The kids ran around the yard catching 30 plus firefly's in our back yard and then we watched them light up the jar. It was magical.

We of course let them go after all of the fun.

Our 3rd Annual Dirty Duo

2010-06-26T13:24:00.000-07:00

This year my good friend Corie joined me in the Dirty Duo. BJ hurt his back so at the last minute Corie agreed to run this crazy race with me.
A friend and colleague from BJ's work joined us with his wife. It was their first time and they were excited.

We made it!!!!!

Thanks Corie!!!! That was soooo much fun to do with you!!!!!

Cardon and Brinly did the kids version this year. It was Brinly's first time doing it and she did awesome!

They came in 2nd overall in the kids version and each won a Target gift card. Way to go!!!

What a fun way to spend a Saturday---getting a little exercise and then playing in the mud with my kiddos! I can't wait till next year!

Little House on the Prairie

2010-06-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

I took my girls to see the new Broadway Production of Little House on the Prairie at the Starlight Theatre--an outdoor Theatre. My mom made each of the girls a Pioneer costume a few years ago for a 24th of July Ward Party and they still fit so the girls decided to wear them . We stopped and picked up some Pioneer treats like salt water taffy and gingersnaps and headed to the theatre. Melissa Gilbert from the original Little House played Ma so it was fun to see her and reminded me of all those days growing up watching her as a little girl. I loved that show and it was fun to experience a reunion of those memories with my own little girls.

Blueberry Picking

2010-06-23T12:20:00.000-07:00

Each summer I go pick blueberries with the kiddos. This summer I went with my good friend Olivia and her kids. There were tons of blueberries to pick and we enjoyed a treat, train ride, and playtime in the hay bells afterward.

Father's Day

2010-06-20T15:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to the best Dad around. The kids each made him a card and then combined efforts with a hand made coupon book.

BJ inherited this tender way of saying "I love you" from his own dad--something I always love to see. I think he came up with this when his kids were embarrassed to say it in public. Thanks Howard--you're a great Dad yourself!
We ended the night with BJ's favorite banana cheesecake. Super easy and delicious!

We love you and hope you had a fantastic Father's Day!

Activity Day Spa Day

2010-06-19T11:12:00.000-07:00

Now that Brinly's 8 she gets to be part of the Activity Days in church. Her wonderful leaders planned a Mother's Day Spa Day. We got to give each other facials, paint our nails, and have a wonderful little lunch while the girls sang us love songs. She's so excited to be a part of this awesome group of girls. Thanks so much for a lovely afternoon.

Girls Camp

2010-06-18T17:50:00.000-07:00

I was asked to be the Girls Camp Director this year for our ward. After much planning and organizing the week finally came. I'd never been to this camp before and as it was run much differently than previous Girls Camps I'd been to--I had no idea what to expect. I learned one thing really fast---DO NOT PUT YOUR ELBOWS ON THE TABLE!!!!!! I learned this during our first meal in the cafeteria when Amy Stephenson (here cooking all week long) put her elbows on the table. What ensued after that was a very joyful song about manners and the consequence that followed. She had to get up on her chair and sing a song in front of everyone to remind her not to put her elbows on the table EVER AGAIN.
Each morning we had flag raising ceremony and it rotated among the girls to participate. During the day the girls certified, did crafts, swam in the pool, ate delicious food and were spiritually nurished.

We had lot's and lot's of games--some which included the mud.

And then the hike--I remembered this part! I learned all sorts of songs during this 6 mile adventure.

Our fearless leaders guiding the way.

Here are my valiant girls. They each had to give themselves a spy name since the camp theme was Mission Possible. Some of these girls as well as others in the cabin kept me up till 3 am. I realized during this week that I'm not as young as I once was.

I grew to love each of these girls this week and was grateful that each of them had this week to grow spiritually stronger in a world that is trying to destroy their spirit. My heart ached for the real struggles that they face each day. I learned this week that it truly is a challenging time for the youth and they need every bit of love and support they can get. I was honored to be able to give it to them this week. I look forward to watching them become strong women of the church.

Scout Camp

2010-06-09T17:15:00.000-07:00

Each year I get to spend a day with Cardon at Scout Camp. Last year we had a huge storm blow in on my day so my day got cancelled. So Cardon was especially excited to have me come this year. It's a great group of boys so after finding someone to watch all of my kids I was excited to spend the day with them.
I had a few other wonderful moms to spend the day with as well.

Brian Busby, the local weatherman came by to entertain the kids for a bit- he should be a comedian when he's not talking weather.

I even got to participate in the sling shot. It's fun to be a kid again.
These are some great boys!

What a fun day spent with my oldest kiddo--love you Cardo!!!

Hershey Track Meet

2010-06-07T15:03:00.000-07:00

Our 3rd annual participation in the Hershey Track Meet. Both Cardon and Brinly did very well and had a great time. Cardon came in 2ND over all in the Standing Long Jump. He has quite a jump and Brinly came in first in her heat of the 50 yard dash. This is a fun free event every year but I'm not sure that I can handle 5 hours in the sun on the bleachers next year. I went home with sun hives all over my chest and arms and quite a back ache. Oh the sacrifices we as parents make! I'm glad they had fun.

Memorial Day

2010-06-01T08:34:00.000-07:00

BJ's parents stayed for a visit after Brinly's baptism so we got to spend Memorial Day together. We've never been to the World War 1 Museum (the only one in the country) so we thought it was a perfect day to visit it. I would recommend it to anyone--it was very well done and we learned a lot about that time in our country. I'm so grateful to all of the men and women that have fought and are fighting now to protect our country.

We took the elevator up to the top of the tower and looked out over Kansas City. It was an amazing view.

When we got home the kids played Book of Mormon Bingo with Grandma Carol (a game she brought them). It was fun to play a game that everyone could participate in. Thanks Carol!

We ended the day with a big barbecue.
There's nothing like a delicious burger with corn on the cob!

Thanks for the wonderful visit. We love you!!!!

Brinly's Baptism

2010-05-29T22:15:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day spent with family in honor of Brinly's Baptism into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We all enjoyed a delicious breakfast together that morning and then got ready and headed over to the church for the Baptism at 10am. Brinly was so excited to see all of her family and friends there to support her. She even had several friends from school come which meant a lot to her and to our family.

Brinly and Grandma Carol

Brinly with Grandma and Grandpa VanOrman

Brinly loved having Uncle Mike there as well.
The first of 2 white dresses I hope to see her in. My heart was full that day. I love my Brinly girl and was so proud of the decision she's made to follow Christ in her life.

It was so wonderful to see BJ use the priesthood and Baptize and Confirm Brinly. I'm so grateful to have the priesthood power in our home.

My sweet little bunch

After the Baptism we honored Brinly's decision and took her to the Plaza for a nice lunch at The Brio. She wore her white dress and just glowed like an angel. She was beautiful and everyone commented on how beautiful she looked.

Congratulations Brinly. We're so proud of you!!!!

The T-Bones Game

2010-05-28T23:23:00.000-07:00

Brinly and Amelia got to perform at the minor league T-Bones baseball game on the evening school got out. They were so excited but they were even more excited that they were going to get to see their Grandpa and Grandma VanOrman and Uncle Mike. BJ picked them up from the airport and met us at the game. They arrived just as they were going on the field.

They got all lined up and ready to go.

And then they did 2 dances. It was soooo cute!

Here they are shaking their tail feathers!

Way to go girls!

After the dances they finally got to see their Uncle Mike. They had so much to tell him.
Jace really got into the game--either that or he was eyeing the cotton candy guy.

It was so much fun having BJ's parents in town for the weekend.

What a fun evening spent at the baseball field with family!

School's Out!!!!!

2010-05-28T23:09:00.000-07:00

Cardon and Brinly had a surprise awaiting them when they got home from the last day of school today. It's been a countdown for the last few weeks--not only is SUMMER here but today is the day Uncle Mike, and Grandma and Grandpa VanOrman are coming. We had to have a PARTY to celebrate! A sign was made saying "SCHOOL'S OUT...... SUMMER'S IN!!!!"
All the necessary items were bought....chips, watermelon, popsicles, sidewalk chalk, bubbles and of course water guns.

As the kids rode up on their bikes they could see the sign awaiting them. Time to PARTY!

They broke through the sign and then...........

I soaked them with my water gun! Don't worry--they got me back.

I filled this little pool with water so that we could use it to refill our guns.... So the water fight began! The kids were laughing and soaking each other when out of no where came..........

Our neighbor Tyler. He's home from college for the summer and decided to get in on the action. He surprised us all from around the front of his house with a huge water gun ready to soak some little people!

Brinly was ready to fight back!

They immediately all ganged up on Tyler and completely soaked him. I couldn't stop laughing!

Tyler finally got Jace to go on his side by bribing him with an even cooler water gun.

What a fun beginning to summer!

Cardon got invited to a 4th grade water party at a friends house down the street after our little party was over. Nearly all of the 4th graders were there and he said it was the funnest party ever. He felt so grown up to be able to go and come back all by himself. I was actually excited for him---He is growing up!
The girls are ready for some fun in the sun...... just like their mom.

We sat outside in our soaking wet clothes and ate a summer lunch. I have a feeling that this is going to be the best summer ever!!!!!

An Honor to Cardon

2010-05-25T14:33:00.000-07:00

All year long in Cardon and Brinly's Elementary school they have focused on Kindness. Both of them were in a Kindness Club where service projects were organized and kind things were accomplished. Each time anyone on the faculty saw a child do a random act of kindness they were given a link with their name on it and the links were joined and strung down the halls of the school. Today they had a kindness lunch and assembly outside of the school with all of the kids and their families to talk about all of the service projects completed and see how long their chain of Kindness had become. At the end of the Principles speech she said she had one final person to recognize and called Cardon to come up in front of the whole school and all of their families. She told the school that a few weeks ago Cardon was riding his bike to school with Brinly and a few neighbor kids when our neighbor Nicole crashed on her bike. She was cut up, and crying. Cardon told Brinly to stay with her and raced up to the school. He parked his bike, ran over to the Principal and told her what had happened and asked if he could go back and help her. He ran down the hill, helped Nicole up, then walked her and the bike up to the school where she could see the nurse. The Principal said it was the kindest act she had seen the whole year and then got choked up saying that if her child was riding their bike she would want Cardon with them. He was given the final link with his name on it to join the chain. BJ and I were sooooo proud of him--more proud than any academic achievement would be because this reflected Cardon's character--the person he is becoming when others aren't around to notice. I wasn't surprised that Cardon helped Nicole but boy we're proud of that guy! Way to go Cardon--I don't think you'll ever forget it!

Amelia's Pre-School Graduation

2010-05-18T21:55:00.000-07:00

When I heard that Amelia would be having a formal graduation ceremony I thought that seemed a bit much---I mean--come on--they're in Pre-school. But I ate my words when all was said and done. Amelia loved it and it was so sweet.
They sang songs about being ready for Kindergarten. It was fun to see Amelia knowing all the words.

Then she got to get her diploma. Her teacher Miss Jan gave it to her and then the rest of the faculty shook her hand. Seems silly but actually very sweet.

She has loved Miss Jan for the last 2 years! She's the best!
Next it was time for cake. Each of the kids names were on it. She chose chocolate of course.

Then it was time to sign autographs. It was cute to see that each of the kids knew how to sign their name.

Even Miss Jan signed year books.

KINDERGARTEN HERE WE COME!!!!!!

Cheerleading at the Farmer's Market

2010-05-15T14:59:00.000-07:00

Brinly and Amelia have been taking a cheer leading class for the past 4 months. It's been so fun to have them take a class together. They have loved it. They had their first performance at the local Farmer's Market--a sort of pre-run for the T-Bones game they get to cheer at later this month. They did a great job and it was so fun to watch them enjoying themselves--Oh and I went home with 2 dozen farm fresh eggs and a loaf of homemade cinnamon bread--Yum!!!!

Way to go girls--I'd do a toe touch right now if I could!

Kansas City Royals Game

2010-05-14T23:30:00.000-07:00

Nearly every month BJ and I go out with our good friends Gene and Marjean. We usually try a new restaurant and then hit a movie afterward but this month we decided to do something different. We went to a Kansas City Royals baseball game and Oh what fun!!!!

There's something very American about being at a baseball game. The smell of fresh cut green grass, peanuts, and the hope to see that ball fly over the fence--Oh the possibilities!!!!

I love this lady! It is a joy every month to get together with her and her husband and enjoy an evening together laughing, eating, and conversing---Did I mention the eating part? We always have good food--the movie isn't always the best but we always have BJ to blame for that one! Ha! Ha!

To finish off the night--Fireworks of course!

We love Deana Rose Park

2010-05-13T10:09:00.000-07:00

On a beautiful spring day there isn't anything more enjoyable than time spent at Deana Rose Park. There is so much for the kiddo's to do and so many beautiful flowers for the adults to admire.
Jace looks good as a Caterpillar.

Isn't this Peony just gorgeous!!!

All the kiddo's standing in the children's garden.

A few of the moms--we can't forget them! Oh the beauty!

We had so much fun watching all the fish eat our chips. Thanks Elizabeth for the supply.

Happy Spring!!!! I welcome you in !!!

Brinly's Birthday

2010-05-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

Right after school on Brinly's very birthday she got to go and get her ears pierced. We have an 8 yr. old rule at our house so she was counting down the days until she could go.
She got to go with her friend Katie. They both picked out flowers for their earrings of choice. Brinly picked out blue and Katie pink.

She said it hurt for just a second but then it was fine. She couldn't stop looking in the mirror

For dinner that night she picked out homemade mac and cheese, watermelon and corn on the cob. It was the first of the season. Delish!
Time to blow out the candles.

She got scriptures from Grandma Honey, jewelry and a book about baptism from Grandma Carol, a new bike helmet, a few new t-shirts for the summer, and a new belt and purse from the rest of us.

Happy Birthday Brinly......It's great to be 8!!!!!

Brinly Bee's 8th Birthday Party!

2010-05-08T23:56:00.000-07:00

Brinly decided that for her 8th birthday party she wanted to have a "Late-night Camp out". It seemed like a perfect idea since she loves to sleep outside in our tent and watch movies on the back of the house. So, invitations were sent out and the planning began.
13 of Brinly's closest friends came in their P.J's ready for some backyard fun.

That afternoon we made "campfire cupcakes". Sooooo, cute and easy!

We had to have a tug-o-war.

The girls really got into it. They really were very strong!

We had a camp out scavenger hunt where the girls found all sorts of things related to camping--water bottles, compasses, whistles, bugs, etc....

And then we had hot dogs, watermelon, chips and drinks around the campfire for dinner.

After dinner we spent some time in the huge tent playing "telephone". The girls were so cute and often came up with things to spread like "Brinly is so cute" or "Brinly is so funny". I think it made her day.

She absolutely loved all of her presents and couldn't wait to wear her new cute shirts and jewelry to school.

Then it was time to sing "Happy Birthday". Everyone gathered around her in a circle and sang to her.

Then she blew out her campfire cupcake. It's official--I have an 8 yr. old!

We sang campfire songs and roasted marshmallows around the campfire and had to make smores.

Gracie is one of Brinly's best friends.

To finish off the night we watched Alvin and the Chipmunks--the Squiquil on the back of the house in sleeping bags. It was such a fun night! Happy Birthday Brinly!!!!! We love you!!!!

The Temple Dedication

2010-05-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

My girls and I had the opportunity to be on the temple grounds for the temple groundbreaking ceremony here in Kansas City. BJ got the tickets from work since his company is building the temple. Our ward only got 15 single tickets so after much consideration we decided to give them to someone in the ward that had been here in the area for a long time since we didn't see how we could make it work to go. BJ was at a Father's and Sons cam pout the night before and Cardon had an 11am baseball game the day of the ceremony and I had to get ready for Brinly's birthday party at our home that evening. On late Friday afternoon I started calling people with the good news of 2 extra tickets. To my surprise--NO ONE WANTED THEM! I was disheartened and was determined that those tickets would not go to waste. All of the above mentioned reasons were not nearly important enough to miss this unforgettable event. So I woke the girls up early (figured that they could count as 1 adult and hoped they wouldn't turn us away), got them dressed in warm clothes, packed a light breakfast and off we went. The whole way in the car (45 min.) I talked to them about the importance of the temple. The spirit was there teaching those sweet spirits and as a mother to those little girls I was touched and so grateful to not have let this opportunity go by. As we pulled up to the site I saw tons of people carrying camping chairs and my heart dropped. It didn't say anything on the invitation about bringing a chair and it was cold and windy. What would we do? My girls couldn't stand there in the cold for 2 hours. I pushed the worry aside and figured we'd work it out when we got there. So as I kept showing the parking attendants my ticket, they kept directing me closer and closer to the sight. I was getting excited. We weren't going to have to walk a long way--And then to my surprise we were directed to park right next to the site (maybe 20 cars were allowed to park there). We walked up to the usher and he looked at our ticket and said "Oh, you have a special ticket." We were given colored programs and taken over to the third row of arranged seating, right in the center. I was so excited. Not only were my girls going to have a seat but they were going to be able to see everything!

Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Presidency of the Seventy spoke to us as well as several other speakers. His talk was wonderful and I felt the spirit as he spoke of the importance of the temple.
The picture of the temple was revealed. It's going to be so beautiful up on that hill.

And then Elder Rasband said the Groundbreaking prayer and proceded to brake the ground with those beautiful gold shovels.

The first shovelful of dirt.

Elder Rasband then had many other dignitaries break ground as well, including the President of JE Dunn (he's in the light colored suit)--the company that my husband works for who is building the temple. Thanks by the way for the amazing tickets!

After the ground was broken Elder Rasband got on the stand and invited us all to get a shovelful of dirt. He said, "This is your day--these are your memories--this is your temple." It was very powerful. My girls were so excited to be able to do that. I think that they will remember this experience for a lifetime. On this day I'm so grateful to say---We chose the better part (not always the case I'm sad to admit)!

Mother's Day Spa at the Pre-School

2010-05-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

A week or so ago I was invited by Amelia to come to school for a relaxing, Spa Day to celebrate Mother's Day. Well if you know me--that's right up my alley. Plus, Amelia was so excited!!! So, I was escorted into a room where a warm, herb smelling neck wrap was put around my neck, while Amelia rubbed lotion on my feet. There were even cucumbers to put on my puffy eyes.
Then we got to fill out a questionnaire all about Amelia and have cookies and strawberry lemonade.

Next came my favorite part--Amelia got to put nail polish on my fingernails with REAL nail polish. She picked out purple and concentrated really hard to do a nice job.

She did great!

Now came the back rub. I could get used to this!
We were all given Mother's Day gifts, including a beautiful little hand decorated potted plant by Miss Amelia herself.

Thanks for making Mother's Day so special Amelia. I love you!!!!

Cardon's 10th Birthday

2010-04-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

Cardon's birthday was the last day of my trip to Utah so we celebrated the next day. We took him out to dinner and let him get a special banana malt. He played a few video games.

And then the kids gave him a birthday kiss. He tried hard to get away but in the end the kisses were delivered.

He got a Wii game from me that he's been wanting.

And all sorts of other fun things.

BJ made his cake. He did a great job.

Make a wish!!!!!

Happy 10th Birthday Cardon!!!!!! We love you!!!

A Weekend of Babies!

2010-04-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

2 of my sisters and 2 of my sister in laws all had babies within the last 5 months and I was feeling forlorn to not have met them yet. Sweet Mr. BJ surprised me with a weekend getaway for my birthday present to go and see those babies. I was elated!!!!! My sister in law Jacque lives in California so I wasn't going to see her new sweet baby but 3 out of 4 would have to do. My oldest sister Amy had her 5th baby--sweet little Emma Claire and she picked me up from the airport. I thought it would be fun to stay with her for a couple of the days and then end up at my sister Ginny's for Sunday. I loved being with Amy. I love her family and it was wonderful being at her home. Baby Emma and I loved each other from the moment we met. She knew who her favorite Aunt Kiwi was! I loved holding her, making her smile, putting her to sleep--It was so fun being the Auntie for a change. I love all of my nieces and nephews. The first night there we got the kids all to bed and then met Ginny at the dollar movie for a chick flick. It was nice of Amy to think of doing that for me--that's not something she would usually do but it was really fun anyway--even if I felt like my mom was next to me during the kissing scenes--Amy hates that stuff! Ha! Ha!
Baby Emma has red hair. If she keeps it she will be the first red head in 19 grand children. Grandma honey is ecstatic (a red head her self with not a single child or grandchild with red hair--until Emma).

I enjoyed lunch with my Mother in Law and 2 sister in laws at a restaurant my college girlfriend Lindsay opened. It was great food, great company and so fun to see Lindsay again. After lunch my Mother in Law--Carol and I went shopping for some special presents for Brinly's baptism. I just love Carol. She is a wonderful Mother, Mother in Law, Grandma and YES friend. I could spend all day with her and love every minute of it!
Then it was time to meet up with my sibs and go to dinner and my parents cabin for the night.

It was fun to have everyone come----So much laughter!!!!

I finally got to meet the newest member of the family--my sisters 2nd boy--Brody. If you can't tell he was surprised to meet me!

And then a bit overwhelmed by all of my attention. We laughed at these 2 pictures until tears streamed down our faces. Eventually Megan started to get a bit unhappy by our laughter at Brody's expense so I made sure to get a better picture later--But these 2 pictures are forever priceless to me!!!!!!!
Here's the little guy looking quite cute.

That same night I got to meet my brother Colby and Steph's 1st baby--cute little Samantha--Sammy for short. It was so fun to see her with her beautiful big eyes and so cool to see Colby as a Father. My little brother's growing up! It was girls night at the cabin so of course--Colby had to come-he's one of us really--he just adds to the laughter!

The weekend was too short. It was a whirlwind--but I did spend every minute I could holding those cute new babies. They may not know it now but later in life they will see pictures of me holding them as babies and know that their Auntie Kiwi loves them and flew all the way from Kansas to see, hold and love them.

The last night I spent with Ginny. I tried to help as I could--her husband Wally was out of town and she is 7 months pregnant with her 3rd girl (her 4th baby). We went to church together and spent the afternoon making cookies and food for dinner that night. Everyone came over for the Sunday feast. It was so good to see everyone. I made my special chocolate chip cookies for the family--something I rarely do anymore now that BJ has taken over that job but I was the chocolate chip cookie maker of the family before the role was taken over.

Here's Ginny and that baby girl of hers. She's due in July---another baby that I won't get to meet. What will I do?

These are all of my adorable nieces and nephews that live here in Utah --I have 4 more in Boston. I just love them all!

Thanks for letting me come spend a weekend with you all. I know that my sisters and sister in laws know that I love them but this really was a special weekend for me to relish in family. I'm so lucky to have a family that I adore and love spending time with. It makes me smile to think of all the good memories I have with them. I will think of those memories until we meet again.

Easter

2010-04-20T07:08:00.000-07:00

Easter this year was so much fun. The Monday before Easter we had a Family Home Evening about the "Meaning of Easter" and then decorated a cute little Easter Egg House. I hope that each year my kids are understanding more and more about the "true" meaning of Easter--not just the Easter Bunny festivities.
On Easter Morning the kids woke up to an Easter Basket full of goodies and then we had our traditional Easter breakfast----Hard boiled eggs with coffee cake.
That afternoon our Easter guests arrived. We invited two of our favorite families to come for an Easter Egg hunt and dinner. It was nice and warm and the kids had a ball hunting for all of the Easter Eggs hidden throughout the yard.
Miss Amelia

Jace really got into it this year.

Brinly Bee on the hunt

Tucker wished that he could run and find eggs with the kids but Mr. BJ held him so that he wouldn't run out of the yard.

Jace especially looked for all of the sport eggs.

It was especially fun for me to see all of my spring bulbs coming up. I wait all winter with a secret smile on my face awaiting those beauties.

Look at all those adorable kids 3 families created--minus 1. Little Owen wouldn't have anything to do with picture taking.

The Wallace Family

The MacArthur Family

Our little family

What a wonderful Easter Sunday spent with people we love. Happy Easter!

Spring Break in San Antonio, Texas

2010-03-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

This Spring Break we decided to do a bit of exploring. We'd never been to Texas so we decided to take a road trip and see what San Antonio was like. After 14 hours of driving we made it. Our first exploration took us to see The Alamo. For those of you who may not know--"There ain't no basement in The Alamo." This history was something I didn't know much about. Many men lost their lives here trying to protect Texas from the Spaniards. Texas Pride is something you can feel in the air here. Once control of Texas was taken by the American men and women who lived here--they became part of the United States only after making it very clear that they would be able to fly their state flag by itself. The rest of the country can only fly their state flag with the flag of the United States with it. There are huge Texas flags flown everywhere here. This is where the battle grounds are located.

The men knew it was most likely a hopeless cause when they went against the Spaniards (there were so few of them to fight). The leader asked those who would stay and fight to the death to step across this line. All but one stepped across it. They all lost their lives in that fight but because of it Texas' freedom was realized years later. You never know the difference you might make in your lifetime.
I sang praises to the sun and enjoyed every last minute of that 80 degree weather.

Then we took a stroll down the River Walk. The river goes right through the town and they've made beautiful walk ways, bridges, and restaurants all along it. It was a lot of fun to hang out down here.

We had some Mexican food on the River walk. It was so nice to be out in the warm air enjoying lunch with my family.

We took a boat ride down the river and learned all about the area. The kids really loved it.

Then we had to stop for ice cream. You can't have Spring Break without it if you ask me!

A few days later we did some cave exploring. We'd never done anything like this before with the kids. It was really amazing and I think they'll remember it always.

We also did some shopping, miniature golfing, movie watching and swimming but the finale was Sea World. We'd been to Sea World before in Florida so the kids knew what to expect and they were so excited! We started out with feeding the Dolphins. You couldn't ask for a better beginning. The kids just loved those Dolphins.

How adorable is this cute little dolphin?

We explored their amazing aquariums.

We rode the Shamu Roller Coaster.

We saw amazing shows with Beluga Whales, dolphins, Walrus', and killer whales. They were all amazing.

This show was incredible. There were probably 15 acrobatic divers, dolphins, and beluga whales. The girls insisted on getting pictures with some of the acrobats after it was over.

Amelia went on her first scary ride. BJ took Cardon, Brinly, and Amelia on the log, water ride.

She loved it and wanted to go on it over and over again but we had other adventures to explore.

This was the next adventure. Since BJ took the kids on the last water ride it was my turn to take them on this one. I've been on this kind of ride before and hardly got wet--so I took the challenge. We went along getting sprayed a few times. No biggie---and then we saw the waterfall--and I'm not talking about a little waterfall--I'm talking about a HUGE WATERFALL. The raft turned just before we got there so that I was headed right for it. We all got completely drenched--like I took a shower with my clothes on. BJ thought it was very funny--Me---not so much. I spent the rest of the day chaffing and cold in soaking wet clothes. BJ bought me a funnel cake to make me feel better. It did.

The killer whales are always a sight to see--even if they didn't ride them.

We ended the day with a 4-D movie. Amelia and Jace were completely freaked out by it. Amelia couldn't take it anymore and hid her face but Jace couldn't take his eyes off of it. He just kept crying and watching. I think he wanted to know what was coming next.
On the way home we stayed at our friends-The Stevens house. It was sooo much fun to see them and the kids had such a great time re-uniting with their friends. We had a wonderful Sunday meal with them, relaxed, visited, stayed the night and then got up to an incredible breakfast. Thank you so much for a great visit! I would recommend San Antonio to anyone. It was a great Spring Break!!!!!

BJ's 34th Birthday

2010-03-03T06:54:00.000-08:00

BJ was such a good sport on his birthday. He took the day off, dressed up in a tuxedo and spent the afternoon playing the "Butler" for Amelia's birthday tea party. He welcomed in all the guests, served them lunch, took pictures and helped clean it all up. He's such a sweet man! Then after piano lessons and cheer leading classes we all headed to get some barbecue for dinner. When we got home we all had BJ's favorite dessert---banana cheesecake. We just dug right in with our forks---family style.

Happy Birthday BJ---We Love You!!!!!!!!!

Amelia's 5th Birthday Tea Party

2010-03-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

Amelia decided that for her 1st real friend party she wanted to have a tea party. Invitations were sent out. We decorated the house and made yummy food for lunch and got all dressed up in our pearls and party dresses and waited for the guests to arrive. Two bears having there own tea party on the front porch awaited the guests.

I dressed up in a beautiful gown as the queen of the house and Amelia put on her Princess Party Dress. She couldn't wait for her friends to arrive.

BJ the Butler (daddy) took the day off of work (his birthday), dressed up in a tuxedo, welcomed the guests as they arrived, seated them at the table, served them lunch and even took pictures of the party. What a guy!!!!!

The table was decorated with tea pots, candles, pearls, etc. and each of the girls had accessories to put on (white gloves, jeweled rings, pearls, lip gloss, and hats). I talked to the girls about how we sit at the table, drink our tea (pink lemonade) with our pinkies up, eat our food with our mouths closed and talk nicely to each other using "please and thank you's". I was surprised at how well they did.
We had fruit and petit fours.........

Turkey and cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in fun princess shapes, fruit kabobs and string cheese.

After lunch the girls each decorated their hats with flowers and ribbon--the fancier the better at a tea party!

Then it was time to play "Pin the Cup on the Saucer". No one got very close to a saucer but they all had fun wearing the blind fold anyway.

After the games it was time for birthday cake and singing. I made giant cupcakes with princess sparkles and each girl got to blow out there own tall candle in the cupcake. Everyone loves to blow out a candle--why not let them?

To make present time fun for everyone we played "Musical Tea Pot" to determine who's present Amelia would open. She loved each of her gifts.

After all the presents were opened the girls gave Amelia a big birthday hug. That was really sweet.

Happy Birthday Amelia! We love you!!!!

Father/Daughter Night

2010-02-19T07:51:00.000-08:00

A week after the Mother/Son Night the school hosted a Father/Daughter Night. The theme was a 50's Sock Hop. The girls had so much fun getting dressed up. We played beauty parlor in my bathroom where we did hair, makeup and of course nails. They felt so pampered once they were ready.

BJ dressed up in his Letterman jacket. It was cute to see him in it. He used to wear it a lot when we dated in high school. I think I have a picture of him standing just the same way 16 years ago.

The girls had so much fun. BJ took them out to eat with some friends first and then they headed to the dance for some games, fingernail painting (again), glittery tattoo's, and lot's and lot's of dancing. What a fun night!!

Mother/Son NIght

2010-02-12T07:13:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege of taking Cardon out on a date. The elementary school hosted a Mother/Son night so we met up with lots of friends for dinner and then headed to the school for the dance. We played Bingo in the library where Cardon won nearly 10 times and then headed to the gym for some dancing and games. They had a dance contest and Cardon and I made it to the final 3 contestants and then lost at the very end. Boy did I have to let go of any insecurities that night--only for my boy!

Cardon attempted to learn the Marcarena. He was lot's of fun to watch. We had a great night. It was so much fun spending some quality, alone time with my 1st baby--whose now almost 10!!!!

The Sunday Cookie--Off

2010-02-09T08:26:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago we had a "Cookie--Off" and invited 8 or so families to participate. Here were the rules.

1st: Only the males in the household could participate

2nd: The cookie needed to be some form of chocolate chip

3rd: The women couldn't help--although they could taste to their hearts content

The competition was stiff--we have some bakers in this neck of the woods. Cardon came home from church wanting to make his own cookie. I was a bit nervous but told him I was fine with it although I couldn't give him any help. He felt confident--he comes from strong genetics in the male cookie making department -and I'm not so bad myself! He made a cookie with peanut butter, rice crispies, oatmeal, chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. When everyone came he was so nervous. We did a blind taste test. I tallied up the votes. Cardon's cookie was labeled #4. I kept seeing that number over and over again as I tallied.

Cardon couldn't believe it---He came in 1st place!!!!! Looks like I'm going to need to spend a bit more time in the gym if I'm going to survive in this family!!!! Way to go Cardon--they were delicious!!!!!

Cardon's Pinewood Derby

2010-02-09T08:17:00.000-08:00

This year Cardon had his second Pinewood Derby. He geared up to make a much better car than his first. He learned some tricks that would help his car go faster this year. He was excited to see if it worked. BJ and Cardon worked for hours together cutting, sanding, painting, etc. The big day came and he was nervous.The line up was pretty amazing!We were all there to cheer him on! He did great--He didn't win 1st, 2nd or 3rd--but his car did do better than last year! Way to go Cardon! I can't wait to see what you come up with next year!

A New Haircut and Color for a New Year

2010-01-09T08:12:00.000-08:00

Always nice to have a welcome change!

Happy New Year 2010!!!!

2010-01-01T07:55:00.000-08:00

Since we moved here to Kansas we've thrown an adult only New Year's Eve party. Everyone brings something delicious to snack on, the Wii is ready to go in the basement, there is always lot's of talking and laughter and occasionally we play games. This was no exception. Some of the men headed down to the basement to play some competition Mario Kart while the rest of us hovered over the yummy snacks and visited. Then when we were all tired of eating and video gaming we all sat down and played a very funny game of "2 Truths and a Lie". Before we knew it it was 11:30 and it was time to get ready for our toast and midnight kiss. My kids (who had been upstairs all evening watching movies and eating treats) came down to get ready to bang pots and pans. We saw the ball drop, we toasted, we kissed, we banged pots and pans and we welcomed in the New Year! I look forward to an incredible 2010. It's nice to look forward with a world full of optimistic possibilities!

Happy New Year Everyone!!!!!!!

Our New Member of the Family

2009-12-30T15:35:00.000-08:00

BJ surprised us all with a cute little puppy this week. He is an adorable Teddy Bear (Bischon and Shihtzu mix) and will get to be around 10 lbs. We named him Tucker--I like to call him Lil' Tuck. I wasn't sure we'd ever get a dog but he has been so sweet and fun for the whole family. We love him already!!!!

Welcome to our family little guy!

Jace's 3rd Birthday

2009-12-28T14:46:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my baby turned 3 today! The time has gone so fast. First thing this morning I asked him what kind of cake he wanted. He said "chocolate, with chocolate frosting and lots of sprinkles." So I got to work. My kids always get to lick the beaters by themselves on their birthday.It was a sunny snow day so we headed outside for some good ol' snow fun. The boys threw snowballs at each other and then threw them at us until Amelia cried "TRUCE"!Then we made a snowman.He turned out pretty great I think!Look at my sweet little 3 year old. He's wearing the hat I made Cardon when he was 3.Next it was time for me to get creative. So I made a snow babe, snow bathing.She's even got her sunglasses on and a little something to sip on when she gets thirsty. All she's missing is a good book!Then we headed to the Jumpin Jax for some indoor fun. The place was nearly empty and so the kids had the run of the place. It was great.Jace's best friend Shawn and family came as well. All the kids couldn't have been happier.When we got home BJ was waiting with pizza for dinner. Jace is very picky as far as food is concerned unfortunately but he likes pizza. I asked him what he wanted for his birthday dinner and he said he didn't like dinner--so we went with pizza.He was so excited to blow out his 3 yr. old candle. Make a wish!His Grandma Honey and Grandpa Chu Chu sent him some spider man underwear for his birthday---just what he wanted (for real). He's been waiting for months for this day so that he could get spider man underwear and start using the potty. We talk it up for months in our family but tell them they can't do it until they turn 3. So 3 is a big year. He can't wait to start this grand adventure---it's nice when you can turn something that can be difficult into a privilege.What a fun day full of family and friend fun. Jace was so excited to start playing with his new toys--he wouldn't touch his cupcake with lot's of sprinkles--crazy kid! Happy birthday big guy!!!! We love you!!!!!

Day after Christmas Snow Day

2009-12-26T14:20:00.000-08:00

The girls loved playing in the snow after Christmas. It was so fun watching them play outside with their friends Nicole and Ashley. There was a perfect hill outside for the 4 of them to slide down. They were out there for hours.

What a fun Christmas break.

Christmas Day

2009-12-25T13:36:00.000-08:00

This year I didn't get a chance to take any pictures of the kids and their stockings because BJ told them that they could get up early and open and play with only their stockings. Soooo...... by the time we got up the stockings were down, contents taken out, unpacked and played with. The stockings are always a big deal around this place.Then we got to the presents. The kids each get 1 present from Santa, 3 from us (symbolizing the 3 gifts given to Christ), cousin gifts, Grandparents gifts and an exchange to each other. There's plenty to open. It's so fun to see their reactions.Brinly got a makeup kit, 2 webkins, and a blow dryer with hair supplies. She's growing up!
Amelia got a fur real kitty. She loved it so much I can't remember what else she got.Jace got a pirate ship, a scooter, and a soccer net.Cardon got a swing for his room, spy gear, kinetics and the 4th Fable Haven book signed by the author. I always love to open the presents the kids made for me at school.This year BJ and I gave each other.........................Griddles. That's right..................Griddles. If you don't know the story ask me later but I will tell you that mine is going back.I always give each family member a gift of meaning. This year it was an especially meaningful gift to give BJ because I had to force my fingers to make this hat. I do much better making a U but for him I'll do anything! I must admit that blue does look good on him. Later that afternoon our neighbors came over for a candlelit dinner. It was wonderful. We love Kim and Cliff and their girls Nicole and Ashley. After dinner we headed downstairs for some Beetles Rock Band (a family gift from Santa) and enjoyed some play time. It was a wonderful Christmas Day!!!!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T11:29:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve is full of traditions for our family. Since we moved away from family we created a few of our own traditions. We always take the kids to an afternoon movie and then to dinner. We don't even decide where to eat until after the movie. This year we saw The Princess and the Frog (2 thumbs down) and then took the kids to Mimi's cafe for some good home cookin'. We were about the only people in the restaurant and were well taken care of. I love not cooking on Christmas Eve. It allows me to just enjoy my family and participate in the fun of the day.
When we got home all the kids got dressed up in their costumes for the nativity. BJ read the story of Christ being born in the Bible. He got teary as he read it as the kids acted it out. It was a gentle reminder of the spirit bearing witness to this wonderful event taking place. Cardon was Joseph, Brinly was Mary, Jace was a shepherd, and Amelia was an Angel--baby Jesus was played by one of Amelia's baby dolls.Then we watched the reenactment of this special day on t.v. We ate chocolate chip cookies that B.J. made for Santa--and us while we watched.Then Brinly got out the milk and cookies for Santa........

...but couldn't forget the reindeer. Earlier that day Brinly went to her friend Nicoles house to make some granola for the reindeer. They threw it out into the snow so they would be well fed while Santa visited our home.We read our final Christmas book. This is a special tradition. Each year I buy a Christmas book for each of my kids and write in the front of it about their past year. We have so many now that I line the stair case with them and each night starting from Dec. 1st we read one. They love to hear who's book it is and have me read about them. It's so fun remembering each stage of their lives. It's so easy to forget. This was the final book on the stairs.We started a new tradition this year. Cardon is now taking piano lessons and has learned Christmas songs this year. So, we stood around the piano and sang Christmas Carols together. I hope he keeps taking so that we can make this tradition permanent.This year was the first year the kids had ever witnessed a White Christmas. It started snowing on Christmas Eve and the kids were so excited--BJ and I were too. There's something especially magical about a white ChristmasThe kids each opened 1 gift and then it was off to bed!Each child was tucked in bed with visions of fairy plums dancing in their heads--and all that Jazz.

I love Christmas! Merry Christmas Eve everyone!

Christmas Activites--Part 2

2009-12-17T10:20:00.000-08:00

A few of my friends and I decided on the spur of the moment that it would be so fun to get together and bake all of our Christmas goodies together and then split them all up for neighborhood gifts. It was a warm December day so the kids played outside while the screen was open so that we had a nice breeze blowing through the kitchen and could hear the kids outside. We all brought a bowl of cookie dough to bake and something else like fudge, or toffee to make. It was such a fun day for me. I loved laughing and enjoying the afternoon with my friends.

The kids all enjoyed the taste testing and periodically came in to see what else they could sample.

In transport to the dining room we only had one casualty. I think the kids took good care of him though.

Look what selection we ended up with!!!!!!

Many friends make light work. It was so fun packaging them all up and delivering them to all the neighbors. I stayed in the car while the kids ran them around wearing Santa hats. I think we have a new tradition in the works!

We also got to participate in the neighborhood family Christmas activity. Santa came (thanks to our friends--Whew!) and the kids got to sit on his lap and then get a candy cane in the club house.

This shows the progression of our little Jace with Santa. He doesn't want to go---BJ is coaxing him. He's been through this before at our church activity---he knows he doesn't want to do it again.

He's mad at us for making him go--he's not going to sit on his lap, but he'll stand next to him and show his annoyance. Santa's being really good with him but he doesn't care--he wants nothing to do with this man in the red suit and crazy facial hair!

Santa is smart----He gave Jace a candy cane--his favorite treat this Christmas Season----all is well in the world now!

The girls hung out with their friends and colored while eating cookies and sipping on hot chocolate.

Now it was time to take a horse drawn wagon ride through the neighborhood to see the lights. We couldn't have been more excited about this.

Our friends came to enjoy the evening with us. It was so fun to have them there!

We sang Christmas Carols and enjoyed all the lights. Some of the neighbors went all out on their lights this year. I love to see merriment like that!

When we got back we roasted marshmallows out in the parking lot and had more hot chocolate. It couldn't have been any more picture perfect. What a great day!!!!

The Magic of Santa Claus

2009-12-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

There is always something special about watching my kids sit on Santa's lap. Seeing the excitement, and joy that they have in their eyes as they tell him what they would like him to bring on Christmas is magical. It reminds me to have fun and find joy in this season.
It's also always fun and funny to see the fear that Santa can bring out in the little one's. I always try to get a good picture of that. Next year I'll have to do a post of all the pictures of my kids
terrorized by Santa!!!!