Oreo Shake Junkies

Easter Fun!

2010-12-11T19:09:00.004-07:00

On April 4 2010, we woke up Easter morning to a white yard! It snowed! Crazy!

But inside the house it was a day full of celebration! The kids baskets were full of fun toys from the Easter Bunny. Nicole got sandals she could wear in the snow to church!

Tyler got a BYU shirt and books.
Sara got sandals and a Miley Cyrus CD.
Ben finally woke up to see his basket. He was so excited to get his very own baseball bat.
After we opened baskets, we got ready for church. It was a nice day. Then we went to Grandma and Grandpa Lemon's house. They get the kids a basket of surprises as well. Nicole was so excited to get a Zhu Zhu pet.
Sara got this darling shirt.
Ben got the movie Curious George. He was so excited and acting silly.
Tyler got Zhu Zhu pets as well. After we opened baskets we had our Easter Egg hunt, but this year it was indoors.
Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for making it a fun day!

Neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt

2010-12-11T19:03:00.002-07:00

On April 3rd 2010, we had our annual Neighborhood Easter Egg hunt. It was a lot of fun, even though it was cold and snowing. Tyler was the first one out of the gate.
Sara found an egg! Good job Sara only 2 more to find!
Tyler found his eggs, and now the snow begins to fall.
Nicole finding eggs!
Ben didn't want to find eggs this year. So after the hunts, we meet in our garage and had donuts and hot chocolate. It was a great turn out even though the weather wasn't the best.

Easter Egg time

2010-12-11T18:57:00.004-07:00

On April 1st 2010, we celebrated Easter at Preschool. Ben, Christian, and Ashlee make Easter Baskets and then went and found Easter eggs. They had a great time!

Ben showing off his Easter Eggs!
That night we decorated Easter Eggs as a family. We had a fun time.
The kids got the rubber bands out and had a fun time making cool designs.

Making Brownies

2010-12-11T18:35:00.002-07:00

On March 30th, 2010 Tyler made brownies for his Scout troop. He did a good job. He did it all by himself! Way to go Tyler! They were delicious!

Logan Dance Competition

2010-07-24T16:35:00.007-06:00

On March 27th we headed up to Logan for a dance competition. Last minute Lisa Turner decided to come with us. It was so fun having her come. We were going to stay at one hotel there, but Lisa had connections to get a free hotel with Marriot so that is what we did. It was so nice. This is Nicole, Sara, and Lisa on the comfy beds.
Then we went to dinner at Sizzler. It was yummy!

Then the girls decided to take a swim. If there is ever a swimming pool my kids HAVE to get in.
Nicole with her friend Addie. She is on Nicole's dance team.
The next morning we were off to the Stadium for the competition. Sara was all ready for Girls Just Want to Have Fun!
Nicole and Sydnee pose in there Its my Party costumes.
Sara performing. She did a great job!

Addie, Nicole, Sydnee, and Jade are back stage getting ready to perform. After they performed we went and had lunch at Subway, shopped around since we had a 4 hour break. Sara performed a lyrical dance. She did way good!
Haylee, Sara, Matti, and Jessica in the dressing rooms.
Sisters love to dance and hang out together.
Nicole in Witch Doctor. She did a great job. She was a little nervous going out on stage. After it was over, she came up to me mom we just danced for 100 people! It was really about 500. I would have been nervous as well.
After Nicole finished Witch Doctor it was off for home. It was a great day of dancing!

Sara's school program

2010-06-06T22:01:00.001-06:00

On March 25th Sara participated in her school program. She sang and dance to the song from High School Musical, We are all in this Together. They did a great job!

March Madness-St. George 2010

2010-06-06T19:25:00.008-06:00

On March 19th we went to St. George to watch Tyler play in a baseball tournament. It was so much fun. They played so well. His team is sponsored by APX alarm company.
Sara and Nicole in the hotel. We stayed in a hotel in Mesquite because we couldn't find anything in St. George. Which this worked well for our Thursday games, because they were in Mesquite.
Tyler and Ben acting silly.
Thursday, Tyler played in two games. The first game they barely lost.
Tyler pounded the ball hitting. Way to go buddy!

After Ty's games, we hit the pool. We had it to ourselves. Ben is starting to be silly and loves making crazy faces for the camera.

Tyler was worn out, but it was time to leave. So Ben took the liberty of trying to wake him up.
Friday morning we went hiking before Tylers games. We love hiking the red rocks in St. George.

This is a narrow slot that kids were climbing through.
Nicole and Ben decided they wanted to give it a try and go through the slot. So the rest of us, hiked around to the end of the opening. Nicole made it through with no problem, but Ben feel and was bleeding so he gave up half way in and just cried. Luckily there was a skinny teenage girl who rescued him. Or we would have been in trouble.

There they go. It was a lot longer than what it looks.
That evening we went and watched Tyler play. APX won both of their games. The games were great!
But it was so cold! His second game lasted until 9 p.m. and we had so many blankets and coats on it was crazy. But I guess I should have realized it still is March. I had packed a bunch of blankets, but Craig took them out of the van, so luckily others on our team and plenty to share.
Tyler getting his makeup on for the game.
After the game it was meeting time to review how they did. Because Tylers team only lost one game, they made it into the tournament on Sat. They played a team from Spanish Fork called Extreme. They are an amazing little team. We lost, but gave it a good effort.
Since we finished the tournament early, we decided to go to a park and play a little before heading home. Our friends told us about this cool park. We had a riot.

After the park, we went and ate at Chilli's and then we were off to home. It was a fun little family vacation.

Lepreuchan Trap

2010-04-06T23:20:00.002-06:00

Nicole and her Leprechaun Trap. On March 16th we took it to school so that hopefully she could catch a Leprechaun. She did not catch one, but had a fun time making it.

Crazy Saturday at the Clayson's

2010-04-06T23:13:00.002-06:00

On March 13th, we had a house full of kids. It was actually a very fun day. At one point I counted 21 kids. I was babysitting 8 of them, 4 were my own, and the rest were friends from the neighborhood. For having so many kids in my house, you would think it would have been nuts, but everyone was playing so well, it was just an enjoyable day. Lunch got a little crazy, so I made a huge batch of spaghetti, and everyone was full and happy.
All the boys played Hockey until it started pouring rain, and then played Butt Ball in the garage.
The older girls were making tents, and pretending.
The little kids were playing in the backyard, then inside, and then back outside. They were all so cute!

GNO

2010-04-06T23:08:00.003-06:00

On March 5th we had a GNO party with Sara and her friends. The evening started out with PIZZA

then teasing Tyler and Parker, doorbell ditching, playing truth or dare, and ending with many hours of Just Dance!
Ben dancing to Who Let The Dog Out!

It couldn't have been better! What a great night!

Tylers Science Project

2010-04-06T23:04:00.002-06:00

Tylers science fair project was really neat, however, these pictures don't do it justice. Tyler was able to make an airplane float around the room and control where it went by holding the blue board behind it, because of the way the air would go around it. It was quite cool!

Sleep over

2010-04-06T22:59:00.002-06:00

We had a sleepover on Feb. 28th with my friend Lisa's kids. We had a blast. Watching movies, playing toys, and had a great time!
Tyler was hurting though. Every winter season his hands look like this after he comes in from playing. We are always putting lotion on him but sometimes he refuses. Which isn't to smart. I try to keep him in from playing outside, but that is impossible.

UVU Science Fair

2010-03-21T22:58:00.002-06:00

On Feb. 25th Sara and I went to UVU for the district science fair. We had a great time together. When we arrived she set up her project. Then they had a science activity for the kids to do where they made a rubber bouncy ball. Then we went and ate an early dinner, since she would be presenting her project to the judges between 6 and 7 p.m.
While we were waiting we had a to take a few pictures. Things have changed so much since I went to UVSC.
After the judging was complete, we went to a Science Show. A scientist came and mixed different chemicals, so we could see the different reactions. It was really neat to watch.

Sara received a ribbon, and even though she didn't win, we had a great time hanging out with each other. And of course we had to stop and get a brown topper on the way home. Yum! Yum!

Tyler turned 9 years old

2010-03-21T22:41:00.005-06:00

On February 24th, Tyler turned 9 years old. He is getting so big. Craig wakes up every morning early to exercise and so he put signs up around the house for Tyler. What a good dad.
Tyler got to open a few presents in the morning.
A Jazz jersey- Boozer
And an under armour shirt for baseball.
I pulled him out of school at took him to lunch at Wendy's.
Then around 5 p.m. his friends showed up. They first goofed off down stairs. While Craig got home with the pizza, Tyler opened up his presents. Mason got him this cool S.F. hat.
Jonah got him legos and golf balls.
Trey got him a gift card to MVP.
When Craig got home with the pizza he got to open the present from us. His new Big Barrel.
After presents it was time to EAT!!!
Then it was off to the BYU basketball game. The boys were out of control. They were cracking me up the entire night. They all have so much energy.
Before the game started.

It was a fun birthday. On the way home we stopped by McD's for hot fudge sundaes before taking the boys home. It was a fun night with Ty and the boys!!!

Valentines Parties at School

2010-02-27T11:06:00.002-07:00

Sara got a red carnation from a boy at school today for Valentines. She was so excited.
Then we had to make valentine boxes for everyone for their parties. Tyler had a hard time deciding what to make. So one morning I was doing Nicoles hair in the bathroom and suggested making a toilet. I was joking, but he loved the idea. So here is Tyler's potty.
Sara wanted to make a bubble gum machine.
Nicole made this darling monkey.
It is so fun making boxes. There were so many cute ones in their classes.

Daddy Daughter Olympics

2010-02-27T10:57:00.002-07:00

On January 29th, we had our Daddy Daughter Olympics for the Activity day girls. When the girls showed up they were assigned to a team, and then they had to make a flag, representing them. Sara and Matti Bennett and their dads were a team. So their team name was the CB's. After they made the flag it was time for Opening Ceremonies.
They were all proud to come in holding their flags. Craig had surgery on Monday, so he was on crutches. What a trooper he was.
The first game was the bobsled race. The girls sat on the long boards and raced to the end of the gym. We also did hockey, downhill (running through cones), curling (rolling balls in hula hoops).
Sara participated in the biatholon. They had to skate with paper under their feet across the room, and then shoot a marshmallow at the target with a marshmallow gun. Then run back.
At the end they all got medals and stood in front of the Olympic flag on the medal stand.
Then we ate dessert. It was such a fun night! Way to go CB's!

Day of Awards

2010-02-20T17:38:00.001-07:00

On Jan. 28th Sara had her Science Fair. She had been working on her project for 3 weeks, and the day to present her project finally came. And what do you know, her hard work paid off. She won! She know gets to go present her project sometime in Feb. at UVU. Way to go Sara!!!
That night we went to Pack night, and Tyler also got a few belt loops and arrows to add to his collection. Way to go Ty for working so hard!

Something came in the mail

2010-02-20T17:30:00.004-07:00

Tylers favorite player in NFL is Austin Collie. For Christmas he wanted a jersey, so I decided to send a letter to the Austin and the Colts organization to see if they would send him something with Austin in it. We had looked for posters, but since it is his Rookie Year, nothing is out. Well Christmas came and went and we never recieved anything. On Jan. 22nd? I went to the mail box, and guess what was inside and envelope for Tyler from Indianapolis. I was so excited. I immediately called Craig.

So on Jan. 24th we decided to give the envelope to Ty since he was having a bad night. Here is Ty opening the letter, not having any idea what was inside.
Yahoo! He fell over on my bed and just sat their shocked. It was Austin's signed Rookie Card.

What an exciting moment for Ty. Now if they could beat the Saints in the Super Bowl, life will be great!

Ice Skating Part 2

2010-02-20T17:21:00.004-07:00

On January 18th, I took the kids to Peaks Ice Arena along with some of their friends to go Ice Skating. They had so much fun the first time we went that they were so excited to go again. The funny thing is when we got to Peaks, 6 of the Activity Day Girls were there are well. Looks like they must have had a fun time skating as well.

Tyler invited his friend Carson to go with us. Smile BIG boys!!!
Nicole invited her friend Ella. They were so cute on the ice, doing tricks, holding hands skating. What cuties!
Nicole going fast on the ice!
Sara met up with two of her friends, Maddie and Drew. They had so much fun on the ice.
Nicole was the only one I would see skating and that was every once in a while. They just did their own thing which was great, but I got a little lonely, skating alone. Oh well, I guess that what happens when your kids start growing up.

They had to clean the ice, so we figured it was a good time for a snack break. Nachos and a drink! Yummy!
Nicole tried being tricky and skated on one foot. Way to go!!! If you keep practicing you could win GOLD!

New Years Eve Tradition

2010-02-16T18:37:00.002-07:00

For the past few years we have gone sledding on New Year's Eve, because Craig gets off work early, so we can all go. It was so fun! This year was no exception, and we even got to bring our wonderful friends from Nevada with us, Whitnee and Austin.
Sara pushes Whit and Ben as they start to go down the hill.
Hold on tight Nicole!
Ty is ready to hit the slopes on his board. He wants to go on the real mountain, maybe someday.
Ben got so cold sledding, so I decided it was best to warm him up with the heater. Is that better???

Ice Skating

2010-02-16T18:31:00.002-07:00

On December 29th we went Ice Skating with Activity Days. It was Nicoles first time skating, and she was a pro. She walked out on the ice and off she went. Tyler had fun skating fast by everyone.
Sara did great!
Nicole and Sydney on the ice.
Sara and Katelyn show off their moves in the middle of the rink.
After skating it was time for donuts and hot chocolate. Yum!!!!

Christmas Day

2010-02-16T16:55:00.007-07:00

Christmas morning finally arrived and everyone was so excited!!! Tyler was thrilled to receive Flick trix from Santa. I think he was most excited because I told him no and he still got it.
Nicole was so excited to get her kittie, and this is one we approved of. Not real, no shedding and no pooping.
Ben loved all of his Mickey stuff!!!
Sara with her stylish boots!
Tyler got his Austin Collie jersey and his football gloves. I think he was a little excited. In fact by the time he opened the gift, his pj top was off and the jersey on his body within 3 seconds.
Sara and Nicole got new bedding for there room. They will get to pick the colors to paint their room.
Nicole wearing her headband that Sara got her for Christmas. Darling!!
Nicole got Ben his own BYU hat and fishing game.
At Grandma's house, Nicole was shocked when she received a "BOY TOY." But later realized how fun it is to fly helicopters.
I got a cricut cartrige from my mom! Yahoo! the sports mania one!
Ben and his Mickey computer. He is going to be glued.
Ty and Sara also got helicopters, which they were so excited and jealous at first because Nicole got one.

At Grandma Verdies the kids had fun. LaVerde had a lady make the kids these cute wall hangings.

She got the family this DVD player. Everyone will love it.
Colette made Ty this cool magnetic board.
We had such a great Christmas! The best part was being with family and enjoying each others company.

Christmas Eve

2010-02-16T16:40:00.003-07:00

After a fabulous Christmas Eve dinner of Prime Rib, we had the kids open their p.j.'s. Ben showing off his muscles and his p.j.'s.
Nicole, Ben, Tyler, and Sara in their new Christmas P.J.'s. How cute are they!!!
All the cousins in the new clothes/blankets. Ben and Christian received the same p.j.'s without it being planned. We missed having Cindy and her family there that night with us.
After opening presents, we acted out the Nativity scene.
Ben was such a cute lamb.
Then it was time for the tickling machine. Grandpa got Chey and Nicole.
They love teasing and playing with Grandpa.
Then they attacked Uncle Ryan.
Then Tyler and Sara went at it.

As the tickling continued, it came on the news that Santa was in Utah, and immediately all the kids jumped up without saying a word, grabbed their coats, and informed us adults that it was time to leave. It was cute!

Family Christmas Party

2010-01-03T22:03:00.008-07:00

On December 19th, we had our family Christmas Party. We started the night off with dinner- soups, poppyseed chicken, rolls, salads, and yummy desserts.
Then it was time for the Talent Show. Last year my mom talked the men into singing some silly songs, so this year it was the girls turn to make fools of themselves. It took a lot of convincing, but we finally agreed to do a Synchronized Swimming Routine. My mom and I choreographed the routine the day before and taught Cindy the day of the performance. What my mother can get us to do is beyond me.

We came out first in front of the water (the blue paper) and took off our robes, but on our goggles and then got into the water. As the music started we slowly raised our arms and dove one after each other into the water. This is me diving in.
Legs kicking and moving as we swam upside down showing our true moves.
We popped up out of the water.
And then it was time to do some spin moves in the center. While we performed everyone was laughing so hard. It was great! The hard part was trying to keep a serious face during the performance. After our performance, then the real talent started. The kids performed piano pieces and Sara sang.
Nicole wanted to do something, so last night she taught her self how to play Jolly Old St. Nicholas and Yankee Doodle.
Tyler performed his favorite song- Boogie Woogie Goose. He plays this every time he walks past the piano.
And Sara performed her song White Christmas, and did a dance in between the versus that Cindy helped her make up. Sammie also performed a Christmas song.
Then it was time for the Annual Christmas Bingo. Who would win this year???
Nicole decided that drawing on the chalk board would be more fun.
Ben didn't ever get Bingo but he had fun trying.
As we were getting ready to start a new game, Santa showed up! The kids were so excited. Nicole and Santa. She asked Santa for a Webkinz, and a REAL puppy, even though I told her I already told Santa no.
Santa gave her the game Operation.
Ben with Santa, and he went up all by himself. I was so proud of him. Way to go Ben!
Ben received 2 puzzles and color wonders.
Tyler with Santa. Tyler asked Santa for an Austin Collie Colts jersey, football gloves, and a helmet. He got the game Battleship. He was so excited.

Sara with Santa. This year she didn't know what to ask for so she wanted a surprise.
Sara got Apples to Apples.
It was a fun Christmas party, especially since many of my cousins whom we never see were able to join us for the fun.

Ward Christmas Party

2010-01-03T21:50:00.003-07:00

On December 19th we had our Ward Christmas Party. We ate breakfast and then Santa came! The kids were so excited. Ben was a little leery to sit on his lap, so I had to join in on the fun.
Santa gave Ben a candy cane, he was so proud, until it broke and then life was over. Luckily Santa saw his distress and gave him a new one.
Sara, Tyler, and Nicole with Santa. Nicole informed me after she spoke with Santa that he was a fake because the real one comes to the Family Christmas party and that wasn't him. We can't trick her.

Christmas Class Party

2010-01-03T21:41:00.002-07:00

On December 18th, Sara only had to go to school half the day, and it was a party! They first painted ornaments.
Then they decorated gingerbread houses.
After the crafts Sara and Madi ate donuts and hot chocolate.
Since it was an early out day Sara got to join the moms in making homemade Christmas candy! Yummy!!!

Fudge and caramel, what could be better than this?

Sara's Voice Christmas Program

2009-12-24T22:31:00.003-07:00

On December 17th, we went to Sara's Christmas concert. She takes voice lessons from Debra Bonner's One Voice. The program started with all the kids singing I don't want to grow up from Peter Pan. Then each of the students performed a solo. This is Sara performing White Christmas.
After a few of the solos then they all performed You Can't Stop the Beat from Hairspray. The picture below are taken when performing this song.
They had a final group number.
Their class: Thomas, Sophia, Hazel, Josie, Tyler
Cloteal, Sara, and Amber

They all did so well. Sara has had so much fun in this group. She is so lucky to have such amazing teachers. Cloteal will be leaving in Feb. to go sing off broadway in the musical- The Color Purple, where she is the lead. Sara will miss her, but will have so much fun with her sister Yo Yo.

Christmas Books

2009-12-24T17:19:00.003-07:00

On Sunday December 13th, Grandma and Grandpa gave each of the grandchildren a book for Christmas. Every year they give one to them so by the time they are married they will have ornaments and books to take with them.
Nicole got the cute book, Merry Christmas Hungry Bear!
Ben got Who will Help Santa This Year!
Ty got the same book.
Sara and her book
My mom gave us the Last Straw, which has a lot of memories for me. Each Christmas as children we would do this exact thing, doing service for family members and filling Jesus bed with straw so it will be soft. It is so fun that I can pass down this same tradition to my children. Thanks mom~

Nicoles Eyes

2009-12-24T17:06:00.004-07:00

A week ago we took Ben to the eye doctor and Nicole to the dentist. Well at the eye doctor, Nicole decided that she couldn't see. Craig would hold up one finger and she would say he was holding up two. She played around for a couple of days, but we didn't think anything about it, until....

I received this note from her school teacher...

Jill,
I'm a little concerned about Nicole's numbers. I pulled her back one on one to go over her telling time test and found that she is really mixed up on her numbers. I wrote a # 1 and she said it was 2. I had her write her numbers from 1 to 10 and it was all mixed up.

This is an example of the attached paper with her numbers
1, 2, 4, 5, 9, 3, 3,0, 0, 0, 1, 1, 1.....

I don't remember this being a problem before!? Will you talk to her and is if everything is fine.
Thanks,
Tammy

I looked at her telling time test and she missed everyone, and she missed everything on her homework. So I had a talk with her. She told me a girl put a pencil in her face and she couldn't see any more. I told her that we had to get her eyes fixed and take her to the doctors than because I know she is smart enough to do this homework, and the test, so we need to go get xrays done.

She told me Santa could bring her glasses. After more talking and crying I told her to go in the kitchen and write her numbers to 20, while I ran over to the neighbors. I can't believe she did this to her teacher.

Well when I got home from the neighbors, her eyes were Magically better. She redid her tests and homework and got 100 % on them, and she is all better.

Oh I am in big trouble, especially since she was smart enough to keep this trick going for a while. She is a smarty pants.

Cousins and Cookies

2009-12-20T15:46:00.002-07:00

On December 12th, it was Sara's turn to pick #12 on the countdown, and her slip read: Make and decorate sugar cookies. So that is what we did that night, even though I had 10 little ones and Craig was at work. It was a lot of fun. Christian, Sammie, Sara, and Chey LOVE decorating.
Nicole, Sky, and Ben like eating the icing more than anything.
Tyler likes decorating but is very fast.
Bens Cookie: Like I wrote before he loves icing.
Sara's darling snowman.
Tyler was done with 3 cookies when everyone else was just starting. They look great!
Nicole was very proud of her candy cane.
It was a fun evening of decorating, laughing, and eating yummy cookies!

Economics Fair

2009-12-20T15:43:00.002-07:00

Sara had an economics fair at school this year. The students all had to create a product and then sell it. They had to keep track of how many items they sold and how much they sold them for. Sara made tic tac toe boards as well as necklaces. It was a fun day!

Countdown to Christmas

2009-12-20T15:36:00.002-07:00

We love Christmas! A friend of mine gives a child an envelope to open day during the month of December with an activity to do as a family. Like reading a book, seeing Christmas lights, your choice of what to have for dinner, etc. So two years ago I started doing the same with my kids. And this year we added this to the countdown. Instead of the kids opening an envelope, they get to remove the number of the day it is, and inside the muffin tin slot is a paper with the activity on it. They open this up in the morning and than at night they . . . .
get to open a Christmas present that is under the tree. There are 24 wrapped books under the tree, and each night before we go to bed that child gets to unwrap the book to see what story we get to read.

It has been so fun to do as a family. I love traditions.

Snow Days

2009-12-20T15:31:00.002-07:00

On Wed. Dec. 9th Sara had her friend Trinity come over to play. It was a cold winter day, so they decided to stay in and do crafts, while the boys ....
went to play in the snow! Tyler tried to hit me with a snow ball. Shame on him!
Sliding fun!

Peace man!

LET IT SNOW! LET IT SNOW! LET IT SNOW!

2009-12-18T20:12:00.002-07:00

Ben was ready for some HOT CHOCOLATE after shoveling the drive way with daddy, during the big snow storm we got on December 8th. Craig shoveled for 3 hours, and by the time he was done helping everyone clear their drive ways, it was time to redo ours, as if he had never shoveled.

Spirit of Christmas

2009-12-18T20:05:00.002-07:00

During the first week of December, Sara participated in the Spirit of Christmas show at ALA. The show was fabulous! All the fine arts programs in the school took part in the show. It was amazing how it all ran so smooth.

This is Sara before the show started.
Sara getting ready to go on stage.
Sara singing Frosty the Snowman. The elementary choir had 2 costume changes during the night. They were busy back stage getting ready for their other 3 numbers.
At the end of the show everyone came out on stage to sing and dance the final number. It was done so well, especially considering all the many children involved- third through 12th grade.

Religious Knot

2009-12-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

On December 3rd Tyler earned his Religious Knot for Scouts, along with other pins and belt loops. I am so proud of him and his hard work. He is so lucky to have great leaders! Way to go Ty!

Playing Kitchen

2009-12-18T19:30:00.002-07:00

My sweet little Ben loves to play kitchen. He is so good at getting you what you want to eat, even when you change your mind time and time again. What a cutie! I love playing with him.

Decorating the Tree

2009-12-18T19:13:00.002-07:00

On November 30th, we decorated our tree after church. Ben was so cute, because all week he kept asking when we were going to do it. Finally the day came. He was thrilled.
That night we went to my parents house, for dinner, and then we all helped decorate the tree. The music was blasting and everyone was having a great time.
Sara enjoyed the icicle ornaments, or should I say the snotcicles. She is trying to be like her Uncle Ryan.
Ben was so proud to be up on the ladder and didn't get down until it was all decorated.
This is Nicole's favorite ornament. A musical snow globe.
Sara was in charge of the high areas on the tree. . .
While Craig and Tyler got the ornaments ready to put on the tree. What team work. Once the tree was complete, it was time for Grandpa to give the kids a special ornament that symbolizes their year.
Ben got a Mickey Mouse ornament because he is obsessed with Mickey. If there is something in a store with Mickey on it, he will find it.
Grandpa gave Nicole the Three Musketeer Barbie ornament, because she loves all the barbie movies.
Ty received a baseball pitching ornament because he played on the Cougars/True Players teams this year and pitched.
Sara got a Hannah Montana ornament, because she sings so well, and has been performing a lot. She also loves the Hannah Montana movie.

Thanks Grandpa and Grandma for the ornaments. They are all wonderful.

Thanksgiving Eve

2009-12-12T22:28:00.002-07:00

Since all of our in laws are here, and it is hard picking who to spend the holidays with, my mom has decided that it is best for to have her Thanksgiving the day before Thanksgiving. It works out great! So Wed. before Thanksgiving, we all went to her house along with my dad's brother and his family, for our Thanksgiving Feast. We are lucky she does this, because Thanksgiving isn't Thanksgiving without mom's turkey. After eating, we played Bingo and other games. It was a fun night!

The night ended with mom heading off to work (a graveyard), and Craig deciding it was time to sing Karoke. It was so fun watching everyone. (And of course I forgot to take pics) Way to go! The men were especially impressive.

The next day we went to Craig's brothers house for our Turkey lunch. Then Heidi and I went off shopping to Shop Ko, Kmart, and Walmart. Our annual shopping spree. While we were shopping my brother called and invited Ty and I to go to the Jazz game. The seats were on row 20 in the lower bowl. Craig was actually invited first, but since he had to work early on Black Friday I went in his place. It was a great day, and the Jazz even won!

70's Show

2009-12-12T22:22:00.003-07:00

Sara performed on Nov. 11-14th at ALA the 70's Show. It was so amazing! She is so fun to watch, and has so much energy. She is normally so reserved, but when she gets on a stage, something in her comes out. Good job Sara!
Sara before the show!

It was such a Great Night! Craig was so impressed, especially since it brought back so many memories for him of the 70', with the Brady Bunch and the Love Boat, not to mention all of the music. I am to young to remember all that he did, but it still was great!

Garage Problems

2009-11-14T20:49:00.002-07:00

This afternoon, I had to pick up Sara from ALA at 4 p.m. so at 3:45 I opened the garage to a get in the van to drive through the blizzard to get her. But plans changed when the garage door would only go up a fourth of the way. Crap! What am I going to do??? So I closed the garage and tried opening it again, nothings. So I tried lifting the garage door, but I forgot to turn into She Ra before trying and failed miserably. So now what??? Then all of a sudden the door fell. Well I guess I am stuck.

So I called my brother to pick up Sara. Called my dad to see if he could help. He came over and lifted the garage door so I pull the van out, and told me the main spring snapped. Great!!! So I called Craig at work to tell him the problem.

While all this was happening, my siblings were all going on dates, which means I have 10 kids in my house right now. Sara had another program so I had to call my trusty neighbor/babysitter to come and sit with all the rug rats so I could take and pick up Sara.

How grateful I am for friends and family. You just can't do it alone.!!!

No clean bowls

2009-11-14T20:45:00.003-07:00

This morning, Tyler came up to me with big crocodile tears, "Mom, I did the dishes two days ago, and put all the cereal bowls away, and I didn't even get to use one. They are now all dirty." He was shocked and upset, since there were no clean bowls. I felt bad, because I understand how he feels. Sometimes things happen in life and it isn't fair. And yet I had to snicker, because now he knows how I feel on many days, cleaning and then coming home to a messy house. Life is tough sometimes, but it is great at the time.

Halloween

2009-11-01T18:31:00.002-07:00

This year for Halloween we wanted to dress up with a family theme of the 50's. The girls in poodle skirts, and the boys as greasers. But as you can see, I didn't win. Tyler wanted to be a NERD. And I must say, he played the part well.
Nicole in her poodle skirt.
Ben ended up this morning deciding he wanted to be Spiderman like his cousins. So we called the neighbors and borrowed the costume. He was so excited.
Sara dressed in her poodle skirt, showing attitude.
Craig had to work until 7 p.m. so he this is his costume at work. We never got a picture of him and I together in our 50's clothes.
This is my dad! Every year my parents go all out for Halloween. They were both dressed as hippies, and I must say they looked great!!
We spent the day at ALA, for their Halloween Carnival. Sara, Tyler, and Nicole all won gold fish, pop, and had a blast playing all the games. Then at 5 p.m. we went trick or treating. Last we ended up at my parents home to eat dinner, and play games. This is the kids playing BINGO.

It was such a fun day! Full of lots of fun activities, but we are all exhausted! It is a good thing we got an extra hour of sleep thanks to the time change.

Red Ribbon Week

2009-11-01T18:10:00.002-07:00

For Red Ribbon Week, the kids had to dress up saying that they would be Drug Free. One day they had to dress up like the 80's. Tyler found bright green clothes, while Nicole did the big hair, like the 80's. It is crazy to think that they are dressing up like the 80's and not an earlier decade. Man we are getting old.

Clash Day! We were shocked Tyler actually dressed up and let me do something silly with his hair. Way to go Ty!
Nicole all ready for crazy hair/clash day. I couldn't be wild enough for her. She just kept wanting to keep adding more.

Gardne Village

2009-11-01T17:54:00.005-07:00

Saturday, October 17th we went with the Ortiz Family to Gardner Village to see The Witches. The place was crowded because it was womens weekend. There were many women dressed up, but we didn't go to see them. We went to see the fake ones. They are so cute! We got to go on a scavenger hunt looking for the many witches. The first one we spotted was the one hula hooping.

The kids were nervous to get by this witch. My dad for years has dressed up and sat on the porch to scare kids on Halloween. Nicole was leery standing next to this witch, and I am sure the reason was because of Grandpa.
This was everyones favorite witch. Cute Witchy Poo!!!
This witch would do anything for chocolate. This is a witch after my own heart.
After we were finished with the scavenger hunt, we turned in the sheet to the bakery for a chocolate chip cookie. It was a fun day at Gardner Village.

Goblin Valley

2009-10-26T10:09:00.003-06:00

For Fall Break we went to Goblin Valley for the day. We had a blast hiking, well everyone did except Ben. He was fine if he was climbing up rocks, but if he had to walk he just cried.
Tyler climbed up to this cool cliff.

Sara seeing what she could find high up the mountain.
Smile!
There were a lot of narrow spots on the hike. It was beautiful seeing the many different formations and the slots. Some areas, you could barely get your body through.
Ben was happy straddling the rocks.

Goblin Valley: What a beautiful site

Narrow slots.
Nicole climbing on the goblins.
Thanks Mom and Dad for suggesting that we go. It was a fun day with everyone. And the best part it was Craig's day off, so the whole family was there. Yahoo!

Jumpin Jacks

2009-10-26T10:02:00.003-06:00

Nicole's field trip was on October 14th, and they went to Jumpin Jacks. The kids had a ball. It was crazy in there with 140 1st graders, but they got their money's worth.
Nicole climbing up the ladder. It took her a few times to get over the top.
She made it to the end.
After Jumpin Jacks, they were suppose to go the park to eat lunch, but it was raining, so we went back to the school. It was good, because I got to eat with both Tyler and Nicole. After lunch we headed to Macey's for a tour. Nicoles favorite part was the seafood section, can you tell. She also like looking at the cow tongue. Sick! I can't believe people eat that.
It was a fabulous day, with Nicole. To bad I didn't have my wallet I could have gone shopping during the tour.

12th Wedding Anniversay

2009-10-26T09:47:00.004-06:00

I can't believe Craig and I have been married for 12 years! It has gone by so fast! Craig surprised me this year, with the day out on the town. We started the day at the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, for a session. Then we ate lunch at Chili's. We next went shopping for Christmas, and then ended up buying Craig a much needed new ward robe. I must say he looks mighty fine in his new clothes. Lastly, we ended up in Salt Lake at the Hales Center Theater, to watch the play called "The Curtains." It was so nice to be able to spend time together, relax, and laugh.

Thanks hon. . . I love you!

Camp Floyd

2009-10-26T09:47:00.002-06:00

Sara's 5th grade class went up to Camp Floyd on October 13th. They are learning about the Civil War, and so it was the perfect field trip.
They got to shoot military gun, (not really loaded).
Make candles. This is the beginning of Sara's candle.
Learn how to make bricks.
Sara and her teacher, Mrs. Youngs. It was a fun day, and we learned a lot.
Thanks Sara for inviting me to come along with you. It was so fun spending the day together.

Fall Sing

2009-10-18T11:33:00.002-06:00

October 8th was a busy day for Sara. She started the day going to school, after school she went straight to dance. I picked her up a half hour early from dance so she could change in the car, eat dinner in the car, and headed back to her school for the Fall Sing Program.
Sara performed It's a Groove Thing! She did a great job! You can tell she loves performing!

The last song of the show was a song that thanked the Military for their sacrifices. It was great!
The kids and I watched her perform at the 6:00 show, Craig and my parents came to 8:00 show. Sara didn't get home until 10:30 that night, and had to take a Science test before she got to go to bed. She was exhausted! But had a fun day!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-18T11:25:00.002-06:00

On October 7th, we went with friends in the neighborhood, to the Red Barn in Santaquin to go on a Hay Ride and play in the pumpkin patch. Ben on the Hay Ride.
Ben picked the perfect pumpkin. It took him a long time to pick the "Perfect" one, because it couldn't be wet or dirty. And in a pumpkin patch that was hard to come by. But he found it.
Pumpkin Faces
When the hay ride was over, they got donuts and coloring books.
It was a fun day with Ben at the Farm!

True Players Baseball

2009-10-18T11:14:00.003-06:00

Tyler has been playing Fall Baseball, and has been loving every minute of it.

Safe!
He loves playing second base. He made a couple of plays this year, getting others out.
Bunting! Tyler had the best bunt this year. It went right up third base line. Way to go Ty!
The last game of the season was COLD! Ty didn't want to wear his sleeves, and so his arms were literally purple, and his teeth were chattering. Between innings he would put my coat on to warm him up. Next year, I bet he will listen to his mom, and wear his sleeves, and a jacket on cold days like this.
Team meeting: True Players went 7-0. A perfect season. But the best part of it, was the way Tyler was coached. He learned a lot, everyone was positive, and they learned what it means to be TRUE PLAYERS!!!

32 years old

2009-10-18T11:09:00.003-06:00

Since my birthday was on Conference Sunday, we spent the day chilling out. Craig did everything while I relaxed. It was very nice. Amy brought over ice cream, more as a joke, than anything else. Because a month ago, I ate an entire carton on Dreyers Butterfinger Icecream in about 24 hours. I made myself SICK! But oh it tasted so yummy! Remember Dreyers ice cream is light and fluffly so it doesn't take much for it to be gone. Ben did help a little.

Side note: I did share the ice cream this time, and it took us a lot longer to eat it. LOL

50's Party

2009-10-18T11:01:00.004-06:00

On September 20th, we had our Mother Daughter 50's party. It was so much fun, eating, visiting, dancing, and most importantly spending time with Sara.
Sara dancing to her favorite 50's music.
The Diner finally opened- we were served Hamburgers, French Fries, and Rootbeer Floats.
All the girls by Grandpa's Motorcycle.
Next we had a Hula Hoop Contest,
Bubble gum blowing contest,
and a Dance off.
It was a fun time. I felt bad, because I was in charge of the evening and so Sara had a lot of alone time. I will have to make it up to her on another Mother Daughter date.

Grandparent Program- Credit Card words

2009-10-13T21:29:00.004-06:00

Nicole had her first grade grandparents program on September 13th. She was so cute. Her part in the program was: Grandma's are a lot like mom's, except they say yes more often. She is loving first grade. She has a fabulous teacher and friends. The other day we were going over her spelling words, and she looked up at me in a panic. Mom, what about my Credit Card words? I told her she would have to ask her teacher tomorrow for her extra credit words. The next day she ran into the house and said, Mom I have my credit card words. Oh I just love her to pieces. She is so full of life.

Vikings Flag Football

2009-10-13T21:17:00.004-06:00

Tyler got to play flag football this year, and he was so excited. Craig was the assistant coach which made it even better. Tyler had a great season! He was the wide receiver, and had a few catches, one touch down, and pulled lots of flags on defense. It was so fun watching him play, because of the intensity that he plays with. He is so focused.
Tyler on defense.
Tyler after getting a short pass, runs up the field.
With Tyler's spin moves, he was able to get past this guy. Go Ty!

The bad part of the entire year however, was that there shirts were Purple!!! Tyler could have handled any other color, but made the best of it. He really wanted to be on the Colts, so he could be like Austin Collie. Maybe next year!

Playing T-ball

2009-10-13T07:25:00.004-06:00

On Sept. 7th, Ty and Ben went into the back yard to "Practice" baseball. Ben goes to all of Tyler's baseball games, and so now it was Ty's turn to watch Ben. Ben cracks us up, because of the way he prepares before he hits. He was watched Tyler so much, you can tell why he does what he does. It is absolutely adorable. Tyler is such a good big brother. He has been waiting a long time for Ben to get old enough to play with. How cute!

Let's go Golfing

2009-10-11T22:18:00.004-06:00

Craig has been giving boys Tyler's age and their dads golf lessons. So Tyler started bugging Craig to give him lessons as well. But I think what happens when you are a professional at anything, you see the needs of others before you take care of your own. For example: A mechanic usually has a ton of broken down cars in his yard, or a fix it man has many projects to do around his own house, or a contractor who never finishes his own basement. It isn't that Craig doesn't want to give Tyler lessons, but we were worried it would affect his baseball swing, and without fail, the other lessons would go to long, and we would have to go to our softball game. Now their lessons are over, and Tyler FINALLY gets to have lessons.

So on Sept. 5th, Uncle Ryan called to see if Craig wanted to go golfing. When Tyler found out, he of course asked if he could go. His first official 9 holes of golf. And though I know little of golf, I can truly say his form looks great! Craig's brother Scott also came along for the fun day!

Some day hopefully all his hard work will pay off, and maybe become a pro!
Tyler did great!!! He is going to be the next pro.

Family Pictures

2009-10-11T20:38:00.003-06:00

Craig's sister, Colette, took us out for family pictures. She took us to many spots- Sunflowers, train cars, train tracks, red brick walls, ect. It was so fun to see what she did. Thanks Colette!

Tyler is a Wolf

2009-09-16T19:30:00.002-06:00

Tyler received his Wolf at Pack Night this month. We are so proud of him. He has been working so hard. He also received 7 arrow points, 2 belt loops, and 2 pins. Way to go Ty! I hope he continues with this enthusiasm for the Scouting Program.

Thankgiving Point

2009-09-14T21:36:00.006-06:00

My Sister in Law, Angie invited Ben and I to go with her and her kids to Thanksgiving Point. It was the last Tuesday in August, so everything was 2.00 to get in, and I think all of Utah was there. Even though it was so crowded we had a BLAST!
Ben and I will the horses.
Ben loved looking at the pigs.
We bought corn to feed the goats, and Ben thought it was great! He was laughing so hard because the tongue tickled his hand. He even got brave enough to do it by himself. I think the goats there are starved, just look at him, he is practically climbing out the gate.

Ben in his cute cowboy hat. He was so excited to ride the ponies. He had to wear his cowboy boots, hat, pants, and a cowboy looking shirt. What a cutie!
Well, my wonderful brother, sat in line for over an hour so the boys could ride the ponies. Did I mention it was crowded??? Well at first Ben loved it, but. . . . .
Within 4 or 5 steps, he was screaming to get off. Moms were watching, commenting on how sad that he was upset. But I think they were really thinking, I can't believe that mom is making him sit on the pony, when he hates it so badly. So I said to them in a laughing voice, We waited in line for over an hour and he is going to ride the pony, whether he likes it or not. They all laughed.
Then there was Sky, who laughed the whole ride. He thought it was great!

After the pony ride, we still had tickets left, so Ryan and Angie took Ben and Sky on the hay ride, while Tyce and I stayed behind.
Tyce is getting so big. He is sitting up. He is so handsome!
Next we went to The Gardens. The boys loved the waterfalls.

Lastly, we ended up at the ark. They got a little wet, but then it was time to go home.
The funny thing about the whole thing is if Ben told anybody about his day, he would tell them about riding on the pony, because he had so much fun!!! It is a good thing kids have short term memories and tell what they want to tell. Thanks Ang for a wonderful day!

Peyton is here

2009-09-14T21:28:00.003-06:00

We were so excited for the day to arrive that my sis had her baby. Her doctor had a feeling that he needed to have her do a C section, because her last baby got stuck, and boy was the doc ever right. Peyton weighed 11 pounds. We were all shocked. Before he arrived we were guessing he would weigh 9 pounds, oh no we were all Wrong! It was kind of shocking to here what he weighed and then to see him in the NICU by other 1 or 2 pound babies, made it very comical. He was so big they had to make sure he was okay, hence the NICU.

Baby Peyton- He is adorable!!
Ben and Christian- Best Buddies! But watch out they are partners in crime-
Ty holding Peyton.
Sara and Peyton- what a proud cousin!

Where did summer go???

2009-09-14T21:21:00.002-06:00

I love Summer!!! Baseball games, swimming, late nights, night games, vacations, and the list goes on.... But this summer, it seemed to have only lasted one month. And in a way it kind of did, with June being rainy, man it is crazy school is starting once again. Even though summer was so short the kids are excited to be back in, especially since they all got fabulous teachers.

Nicole is in Miss H's class. She was so excited to get her since both Sara and Ty had her as well.
She has lots of friends in her class, and is so excited to make more.
Tyler with his teacher. He didn't want me to take a picture, but oh well I won!!! He is getting old enough that he is thinks I am embarrassing. But I do it because I love him!

Sara's First Day at ALA

2009-09-12T20:55:00.002-06:00

On Aug. 17th Sara started her first day of school at American Leadership Academy. She was excited, nervous, scared, and many other emotions. I can't believe she is already in 5th grade. She is growing up so fast. Before I know it she will be in high school. She is just a sweet girl, always helpful and kind to everyone. I love you Sara!

Meeska, Mooska, Mickey Mouse

2009-09-06T15:50:00.008-06:00

This is a long post, but it was such a fun birthday party. Ben is completely obsessed with Mickey Mouse Club House so we did a Mickey Mouse birthday party. I tried to make it just like the show. Here are the kids getting ready to go to the club house. But before they could enter into the backyard we had to sing the Meeska Mooska Mickey Mouse so that the club house would appear. It was so cute. We played the song and for roll call dubbed in the kids names instead of the Disney Characters.
Entering in Mickey Mouse Club House.

Mickey left a bag of equipment for the kids to play with since he couldn't make it to the party. But when we found the bag it was empty, and so the search for the missing equipment started. But first we needed our Mousekatools. So we had Oh toodles song playing, and Nicole danced around carrying Toodles with all of the clues on it.
They could use a ladder, blanket and book, a board, Mickey Ears, and of course the Mystery tool.
The kids followed bear tracks to the front yard, and in the tree were cones. But how can they get them down? They had to call on Toodles for help.
They decided the ladder would help them get the cones out of the tree. They took turns getting cones out.
Then they noticed there were shapes on the ground. A row of circles that led to the road, a row of squares that led to the neigbors house, and a row of triangles that led to the front door. They decided to follow the triangles. But when they got to the front door, they saw a Big Brown Bear, so they couldn't get by. So what did they do??? (There expressions were so cute) They called for Toodles.
They decided to use the blanket and story book to put the bear to sleep so that they could tip toe tip toe tip toe past the bear.
Once inside the house, the bear tracks led them to the kitchen. They spotted a poster of Mickey Mouse, but something was missing??? This Ears. So once again they called upon Toodles for help.
They each pinned the ears on Mickey and then received their own ears to wear.
Ben wearing his cute Mickey Mouse Ears.
Smile big!!!
The footprints then led them to the living room, but they couldn't get outside, because Pete was blocking the door. Pete was holding the key and the only way to get the key was to throw bean bags at his belly.

Ben got the key to fall out of Petes hand. It wasn't planned to happen that way, but hey it worked out better. He was so excited to get the key. So Ben opened the back door, and they all followed the feet to . . .
The Backyard, where they were stopped by a pool of water. They could see balls on the other side of the pool, but could not reach them so they called for Toodles for help.
The board was perfect for them to use to cross the pool and get a ball.

After they got the balls, we talked about what clues they got... Balls, Cones, Mickey Ears, but they still didn't know what game Mickey wanted them to play, so we found a Mickey puzzle on the table. Pieces to the puzzle were missing, so they asked Toodles for help, and the myster tool was the missing puzzle pieces. The puzzle was of Mickey playing soccer. So we then did the Hot Dog Dance, and then played Soccer.
Finally it was time for treats- We made Mickey Mouse Ice Cream heads.
After ice cream, it was time to open presents.

Ben showing off his strong muscles.

Since the county fair was going on, after his party was over we went down to see how the kids did in the fair with their photos and pictures and to see the animals. Ben was disgusted by the smells. He plugged his nose the whole time.
That night he opened presents from us.... Soccer outfit,
Webkinz Jr.
His bery own chocolate for his milk,
and his Bike.
Then he decided he needed his tools to fix his scooter. It was such a fun Birthday! I can't believe he is already 3. We love you Ben!

Fallon Here We Come

2009-09-06T15:27:00.003-06:00

The beginning of August, we went to visit our friends the Woodhouse's in Fallon, Nevada. The amazing part is I had to travel with the kids by myself for 8 hours and we made it alive. The dreaded scenery to Nevada can kill anyone. But the scenery was well worth the trip so we could be with our friends for the weekend.

The kids were so happy to play and just hang out. So the first day, Ty and Austin played sports all day long, while the girls dressed up, modeled, danced, jumped on the tramp, and played. Then on Saturday we went to Austin's baseballs team banquet, and then bowling.
Whitnee, Sara, Nicole, Austin, and Ty wait to go bowling.
Kinzee and Steve watch the kids bowl, patiently waiting their turns. It is crazy to think Kinzee starts college in a few weeks. Man time has gone by.
Go Dee Dee go! Get that Strike so you can beat Steve and get your back massage.
Ben had a blast, bowling. What a big boy! He kept telling me, I can do it by myself.
After bowling, it was time to hit the arcades. Dee Dee, Steve, Nicole and Ben all played Deal or No Deal. Ben picked the million dollar case. They all recieved points for playing, which made it so we all ended up with an ice cream cone, for Free! Way to go guys!

Playing in the kiddie area.

After bowling, we went swimming and their friends house.
We ordered pizza, and wings, and had a fabulous time.
That night, Dee Dee put curlers in the girls hair.

Ben felt left out, so we had to put some in his hair as well.
The next morning we hit the road again. When we were close to Wendover, Ben decided he had to Pee right now! So I pulled off the side of the road and he did his duty and as we were getting him buckled up, a high way patrolman stopped to see if everything was okay. He chatted with me for a few minutes and then said well if everyone gets in their seatbelts I will be off. Nicole just stared at him. So he said sweetie can you please put on your seat belt, again, there was no response. She just sat their looking at him frozen. The cop looked at me and said, Good Luck, I hope you makes it home before you strangle one of them. It took me a few minutes to get Nicole to get her seatbelt on. I don't know if she was scared or what, but man I was glad when we finally pulled into the drive way and let Craig have a turn with the kids, while I relaxed.

Block Party

2009-09-06T15:10:00.003-06:00

Neighborhood Block Party--- There was lots of chatting, water balloons, marshmallows, treats, and of course a movie and popcorn.

Water balloon fun. First it started as water balloon volleyball, but it turned into human battleship. The kids were on one side of the net lying on the ground while the adults tossed water balloons over the net. If it hit a child, the adults sunk their ship.

It didn't take long before a big water fight started. Brandon and Mitch attacked everyone. Later it was noted to me, that I was the cause of the water problems, because I would tell someone to go get Craig, or Brandon, or Mitch. Oops I guess I did start it. Luckily I was protected a little because I had my camera.
Then it was time to roast marshmallows and eat S'mores. Yummy! Yummy! When it got dark the kids watched Kung Fu Panda, on the side of Jackson's house, while everyone else chatted. What a fun gathering.

Provo River Falls

2009-08-23T14:06:00.004-06:00

Provo River Falls- On July 30th we went up to the Provo River Falls, up by Kamas. Holy Cow they are simply amazing. It is such an amazing sight. Thank you Mena, for telling us about it!
Tyler and Jill at the bottom of the Water Falls.
Climbing down to the falls.

Sara was the BRAVE one. She got into the water, and walked over to the other side. The water was ice cold. Tyler tried, but slipped, and was basically soaked. It took him forever to dry off, since it was a cool breezy day.
After the water falls we drove a little ways to Mirror Lake. The drive there was simply breath taking, and we kept passing other lakes, thinking what is so amazing about Mirror Lake, because the others were so beautiful. Well when we got to Mirror Lake I got the answer. IT was simply Beautiful! We are so lucky to have these beautiful creations around us.

After walking around Mirror Lake, we drove home. But before we could get to Provo Canyon, we had a quick stop at Granny's. My kids had never been there before, so we had to go!!!

The shakes are so big, that we all shared 3 different flavors- Snickers, Chocolate Banana, and Rocky Road!!! What a fun day!!

Air Force Base and the Tree House

2009-08-18T21:44:00.006-06:00

On July 29th we went up to Roy to have a fun day with Cindy and her kids. We first went to the Air Force base to look around at the air craft. It was so neat to see the planes from the past to the present. They are so big. The boys had a blast running from plane to plane. They all had their favorites.

Nicole and Andrew underneath the plane. It just shows how big they truly are.

Inside the museum they had a kids section, where they could dress up and play in air craft simulators. They had so much fun pretending to be driving the planes.
Sara and Ty made it to their location--- The Moon!!!

Good Luck Nicole!!! Way to get your wings!
Nicole got everyone safely to the moon!

They wanted to try flying again. There were tons of different helmets for the kids to wear. I think Ben chose the best!!! LOL After we visited the Air Force Base, it was time for lunch. Cindy fixed us sloppy joes, a pasta salad, chips, and homemade chocolate chip cookies. We were spoiled!!! And she did it all before we got to her house. She is a wonder women.

Then it was time to go to The Tree House. We didn't know how the older kids would like it, but by the pics below you can see the LOVED it!! The tree house is made up of different themed rooms that the kids can play in, for example a doctors office- there were doctor outfits, babies, Xray machines, tables, ect. These are some of the kids favorite rooms.

Rodeo Time!!!

Nicole at the rodeo.
Ben riding the Bronco, while Ty was the clown.
Where is the Fire??? Here we come!!!
Today Class we will be learning basic addition . . .
The Whole Clan- 12 in all, with one on the way!
Thanks Cindy for having us up for this special day! You are the best!!!

Pioneer Program

2009-08-01T19:10:00.003-06:00

Sara and Nicole were asked to sing in a program called the Trek. They sang the song Somewhere theres a Mountain. It was so neat. They sang with a live band. It was such a special day.

Lets Play Music

2009-08-01T19:02:00.002-06:00

Sara and Tyler graduated from the Let's Play Music program on July 27th. Many might not know what this is-- it is a music program that helps children learn perfect pitch, piano and voice skills while having fun. You are suppose to start when you are 4, but I had Tyler and Sara take the excelerated class (going through the summer), so that they could enjoy all the benefits of this program.

Tyler started off singing monotone. He stayed on the same note no matter how hard I would try to get him to go up and down. He is an amazing athlete with gross motor skills, but his fine motor skills were struggling. But know that the program is over, he can sing on key, play piano songs (he begins regular piano lessons next week and is able to skip all the primer books), and can do things he other wise would never have had the confidence to do. Sara also improved. She is already taking regular piano classes, but LPM helped her understand theory and techniques easier with the fun ways they teach.

Sara and Tyler for the final assignment had to write a song, and I was very impressed. Tylers of course was titled, Lets play Baseball, and Sara's was called Springtime. Wow! is all I can say about the program!!!
Thanks Melissa for being such a great teacher!!! We love ya!

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

2009-08-01T18:34:00.004-06:00

I hate making decisions. I hate deciding were to go to dinner, or what movie to see. I hate deciding what to cook for dinner, but I think the thing I hate most are the decisions I have to make that affect my kids. I hate having so many different choices and opportunities that are out there and knowing if I pick the wrong thing than I could scar them for life. So this year I had to decide if I leave Sara in public school or do I switch her to a charter school. All of her friends are in public school, but there are programs that the charter school offers that I think will benefit her. Will she be left out if we switch her by the girls in the neighborhood. When I was little my mom didn't have these decisions, there was one school. And it is good we can decide but man it is hard.

Then Tyler got asked to play on a different baseball team, so do we switch??? Do we hurt friends feelings by switching to a better team that will help him get better??? Is it worth it??? It seems like all summer long I have been faced with decisions like this. It would be so much easier if it was between a good thing and bad thing, but when both choices are good with different pros and cons man it can be challenging. I just wish I had a magic ball that told me immediately what to do in situations like this. But I guess I have to be patient and keep praying and hope I make the right choices.

Spanish Fork Reservoir

2009-08-01T18:25:00.002-06:00

On Saturday July 25th, we went hiking at the reservoir. We went on the "other" hike. It was cloudy, and so we didn't know if we would go swim or not, but after the hike, we knew we were going swimming. It was so hot!
Ben had fun playing in the sand (rocks). He made many birthday cakes and sang Happy Birday to himself. I love how he says birthday. He is so excited for his birthday that he talks about it all the time.
Grandma brought some rafts for everyone to float it. It was so fun!
Craig was swimming all over, diving down looking at the fish. Tyler is holding a fish. Then Craig took Ben and Ty out for a ride.
We packed a lunch and had a great time swimming, floating, talking, and eating. It was a fun day!

Real Camping

2009-08-01T18:07:00.005-06:00

On July 23rd, we started out little vacation. We went campjng at Whiting Campground up Mapleton Canyon. We had to go somewhere close because of Craig's work schedule. Four wheeling was great, and bumpy. Craig and my dads took the kids that morning, and met my mom and I plus Amys kids at the campsite for our camping fun.

Grandma brought l0ts of crafts for the kids to do while there was down time.
It was so hot so we decided to play in the creek to cool off a bit.
Then we had to get some work done- setting up camp.
Ty was still so hot. Which I can't figure out why. He was wearing his LONG SLEEVE BLACK under shirt with a t-shirt over it. We finally convinced him to take off a shirt, but he chose to take off the cooler of the two.
Then it was time for hiking fun.
On the way back we found a small pool of water, and decided to wade our feet to help cool off.
Well Craig decided to dive in, therefore, others followed.

I was actually quite impressed that Ben got completely in, because the water was freezing. Hence why he sad now and can't walk because he was so cold.
After dinner, Sara, Sammie, Craig, Tyler, Jeff, and Nicole put on a skit. Sara and Nicole sang a song, Tyler told a few jokes, and then it was s'mores time.

The next morning Craig made us a yummy breakfast! Thanks for treating us to good food.
After a few more hikes, and the rest of the family four wheeling, and an explosion of other things we decided to go home and get ready for dinner at Ryan Lemon's and to watch the fireworks.

Children's Parade

2009-08-01T18:01:00.003-06:00

Every year since I was probably 3, the Saturday before the 24th of July we participate in the annual Childrens Parade. It is funny, because I remember when I was little some of the different floats my mom would put together since she was Primary Pres. Oh the memories! But the best part of the parade is the end when they give you a carnival ticket. Well now it is time for my kids to enjoy this tradition.

After the parade, we ate Popsicles and then went to the childrens tent for some fun games and prizes. What a fun morning.

Oquirrh Mountain Temple Openhouse

2009-07-26T22:22:00.003-06:00

On Friday, July 17th we picked Craig up from work and headed up to the Oquirrh Mtn. Temple Openhouse. The kids love going to the temple, and we are truly blessed to have so many close by. And to actually go into two in one year is awesome!

Hiking to the Cross

2009-07-26T22:16:00.002-06:00

So I have lived in Spanish my entire life and never once have climbed to the cross on the mountain side. My neighbor had to tell me about it, who isn't from around here. She also told me of many other little hikes to go to in Spanish. I think I am the one who is suppose to be doing the telling, but not in this case. It was a fun hike.

Camping in the Backyard

2009-07-26T22:09:00.002-06:00

A camping we will go, a camping we will go, hi ho the dairy oh a camping we will go...
Even if it is in the backyard. The kids have been wanting to go camping, and so we did. We set up the tents, had a camp fire, roasted marshmallows, and then set up a movie to watch. The night was perfect, except for the Spanish Fork wind that started around midnight. I thought the tent was going to fall over, but it didn't. The next morning we had to hurry and put everything away, because it started raining.

Our New Addition

2009-07-26T22:04:00.002-06:00

So after months and months of begging Nicole and Sara talked us into getting a cat. They named the cat Jazz, then Ty changed it to Cougar. The cat was fun to play with, but was very lonely. He was missing his mom and we found out Craig is allergic to cats. So after a few days of having the cat, Nicole woke up one morning and informed me that she did not want the cat any more. This surprised me because everyday she would lay outside by it for hours and play with it. But I think it scratched her one to many times and she was finished. I don't think Craig minded because he was sneezing all the time, but he was a cute cat. Now Nicole wants a dog. If we get one of those maybe she will keep it for 3 days.

Let Freedom Ring!

2009-07-26T21:41:00.003-06:00

Our July 4th started out early. We were up very very late the night before visiting with the Woodhouse's and therefore, slept through the alarm clock. For some reason Craig woke up at 5:50 a.m. and within 10 minutes the kids and I were out of the house. But we made it, and I am glad we did. Last year, Craig took the older three to see the balloons and I stayed home with Ben, so this was my first year experiencing the balloons. I never knew they blew up the balloons with a simple fan. It was so neat to watch. Ben however was scared to death. He knew the balloons were going to fall on him.

After seeing the balloons we went to the Ortiz' house and had breakfast. It was very yummy! Thanks Ryan for the yummy breakfast.

During the day the girls went back to Amy's to play in the water while the boys slept. Then everyone met at our house for dinner, and of course a backyard baseball game.
Craig set up a tent for the girls to play in. They had fun chatting and goofying around.
Ben eating Angie's yummy cup cakes. Ben decided to grow a frosting beard.
Ben's third cupcake. He was so cute eating them, so I just letting him eat and eat.
Uncle Ryan and Nicole were teasing each other, and he got some frosting on her face, so therefore, he got an entire cupcake in his.
Nicole is proud of her work. Thanks Ryan for having a good sense of humor and taking it like a man!
When it got dark it was time for Fireworks. The kids had a blast playing with the sparklers. It was such a windy night, so we did sparklers and snaps for a long time, but finally the wind died down enough so we could watch the big fireworks.

Yes, I can hardly believe my eyes as well. Yes, that is right Ben, is actually holding a sparkler. What a brave boy!!!

It was a crazy night. The Ortiz' van starter went out and the men tried for an hour or so to fix it, but nothing worked. So atleast the wind stopped blowing so that atleast we ended the night with some entertainment admist the frustrations.

Fun day with cousins and friends

2009-07-25T22:15:00.006-06:00

I had to babysit my sisters kids on July 3rd and it was such a hot day that the boys wanted to play in the water. They found these water guns, and Ty was so nice because he just sat there and let them get him wet.

While the boys were in the water, the girls were inside making up funny skits. Everyone was laughing so hard. It is fun when cousins can do things together.
That night we took the older kids and the Woohouses and went to hike the Y. I haven't hiked the Y since I was 18. The kids were excited and ready for the challenge.
Craig and Nicole after a few hills.
Sara and Whitnee were exhausted after this hill. Unfortunately for them we were just beginning.
The boys were tough. They could have hiked it in a half hour or so. I told them that the BYU football team have to run it and so of course they had to as well.
The girls taking the a break.
The side view of the whole Y.
We all made it to the top!!! What a fun, hot day. While we were on the Y, we heard the Jonas Brothers practicing a song from the Stadium.
The view from the Y.

After the hike, we decided we needed to cool off with ice cream sundaes. Yum! Yum!

Lots and Lots of Dental Work

2009-07-25T22:07:00.002-06:00

All I can say is this summer has been filled with many visits to the dentist. Tyler and Nicole have had a ton of work done. We have kept the dentist in business this year. Tyler had to have 3 teeth extracted. He had an extra tooth coming in between his two front teeth. It was shaped like a tear drop. It is crazy looking. Then he had to have a cap put on plus 8 cavities filled. Because of all the work he had to have they had to put him under. Which that costs 75.00 every 15 minutes he is under, with the first 15 minutes costing 150.00. Lets just say that bill alone was $750.00 and we had to pay up front. Hopefully the insurance will come through.
Then Nicole had to go 4 different times to get all of her work done. She is so brave. She didn't want the gas. She just sat their calm and watched a movie. She had a tooth pulled and a spacer put in. 2 root canals, 2 caps, and 11 cavities.
So when it was time for Sara and Ben to be seen they were expecting tons of problems, since the other two had so much. Ben had no cavities, and Sara had one small one. It is crazy, because we really do have the kids brush their teeth, and yet look at all that had to be done. All I can say is what if we didn't have them brush their teeth?

Dance Tryouts

2009-07-19T12:44:00.001-06:00

Sara and Nicole tried out for Heart n' Souls dance competition teams this year. Sara made Junior Elites team, and Nicole made the Minis team. They did so good learning their dances and performing for the judges. Way to go! I am so proud of you!

Water fun and Tball game

2009-07-19T12:29:00.002-06:00

Ben on June 29th wanted to play on the slide with the water. He had so much fun!

Nicole had her last tball game as the Red Hots! She had a blast playing this year, and met a lot of new girls who are know her friends.
When Breanna got to the game, the girls made a train and were dancing around. This is what we do for warm ups in T-ball. Who needs to practice catching and throwing the ball? Obviously not them.
Nicole fielding a ball.
Run Nicole! Run! Nicole is a good little hitter. It is fun watching her play.

This is Nicole playing outfield. The girls only like to play a few positions- catcher, pitcher, and the bases. So if they are in the other positions, they are usually doing cartwheels, talking with the other team members, or with the other team. This is Nicole playing short stop.
Everyone ready for the girl to hit, but most balls only go to pitcher, so Nicole decided to have a break. Only in T-ball.
I had such a fun time coaching her this year! We had such a cute team! Way to go Red Hots!!!

Yuba

2009-07-19T12:03:00.007-06:00

The end of June we went to Yuba Lake with my parents BYU ward. They had 3 boats, lots of college students, food, and fun. My kids loved every minute of it. They especially loved the water fun and hanging out with the college kids.

Ben being brave getting his feet wet. When we first arrived, all the kids got on a boat and went out for a ride, except Ben. He was very hesitant so him and I stayed back. So him doing this is huge!
Ty having fun skipping rocks.
Sara is my little fish. She was constantly in the water, only getting out to eat lunch or if she was on the boat.
My mom had Ben sit on the tube while it was on shore, and he cried and cried. It was so funny, because they were in water up to my calves. Oh well maybe later we will get him use to the water.
Nicole waiting for a boat to get back so they could take her out on the tube.
While people were on the boat others had water fights. Tyler was getting blasted by Christian and his new found college friend.
Then it was Nicoles turn to get Grandpa. She snuck up on him. It was so funny!
Grandpa sticking his tongue out at Nicole for getting him! She was so proud of herself. It was hilarious!!!
Sara and Nicole out of the rafts.
Tube Time!!! Sara, Sammie, and Tyler had a blast on the tube. They didn't want to get off, but everyone else wanted a turn.

We finally got Ben to get on the boat! He had fun but was very very nervous.
Yes, that is Ben on the tube. He even raised his hands. What a brave boy!
We had such a fun day at Yuba! It couldn't have been a nicer day. Hot day, cool water, and lots of fun!

Tylers last ball game

2009-07-12T22:30:00.002-06:00

Tyler ready for the ball to come to him- playing short stop.
Making a play at first
Nicole going a little crazy- but this is the last one she will have to endure for a little while.
Cheering on their team mates.
After the game the Bennetts had pizza and drinks delivered for the team. IT was such a fun season. The boys got better with each game. Thank you Kelly and John for all of your time during this season! Go Cougars!!!

Scouting Belt Loops

2009-07-12T22:20:00.002-06:00

Tyler has been busy this summer earning his scouting belt loops in many categories. He received 6 belt loops- baseball, softball, basketball, b b shooting, archery, soccer, bowling,
and 3 pins in baseball, softball, and basketball. He was so excited to get his belt loops. He wants more than anything to get his beads so that he can earn his wolf. He will have that completed by Aug. at the rate he is going. He just loves scouts and all the fun things they do.

Every Girls Dream- A Pirate Party

2009-07-12T21:54:00.003-06:00

Nicole struggled this year, trying to figure out what theme to have her party be. We went through 3 books of ideas, plus the internet trying to come up with something. Finally, a week before her party, she decided on the Pirate Theme. Which kind of makes me laugh because she is a girl, and girls are suppose to have Princess parties, ect. at this age. But leave it to Nicole to go against the grain and pick a theme that is more boyish.

However, with that being said, the party was a blast, and all the girls had a great time. First I had set everything up out side, and then a big black cloud showed up. So 5 minutes before the party was to start, we grabbed everything to pull it off in the house. Which was a challenge, since we had a swimming pool full of water with a board over it to walk the plank, the treasure hunts clues were all to outside areas, we had games that included sinking ships where you threw water balloons at the ships. Lets just say I was MAD for a moment. But as it started to rain I am glad we decided to bring it in the house. The bad thing was, it only rained for a few minutes.

When the kids got to the house, we put bandanas on them and some material around their waist. Then since it wasn't raining, we split the kids into two groups and had a race to see who could sink the other teams ship first. My mom drew ships on black card stock with chalk. So when the kids threw water balloons at the ships they would erase. The first team to get the ship erased first sunk the ship and won. The kids had fun, even though some of the cannons (water balloons) didn't pop until they hit the ground.

Next it was time to pin the patch on the pirate. The kids at the end all recieved eye patches.
How cute they all look. Aarr ye mateys! After pin the patch on the pirate we played musical islands. They all recieved telescopes when their island was called out. Then we played a bean bag toss, gold coins into a treasure box. They all recieved a few gold pieces that they could use to buy their desserts and jewerly with.
Then it was time to go down stairs and do the obstacle course. They first had to walk the plank, then crawl under cannons,
get to the ship, throw 3 cannons at the ship (balls, it was suppose to have been water balloons) and then climb back under the cannons, walk the plank. Once they did that the time stopped. Each pirate recieved a gold earing and some rings.

Then it was treat time. We had sword popsicles. Yummy!!!
After treats, Nicole opened presents. One of the boys got her some jewrely. Well, she was excited. There was a ring, necklace, and earings in the set. She yelled, It is like I am getting married. She was so tickled at the thought of getting married. The boy that gave it to her, Blake, went red and the other boys teased him saying, You're going to marry Nicole? It was hilarious.
After presents, it was time to look for the treasure. Nicole read the first clue.
After many clues, they finally found their treasure. . . Ring pops, gold coins, braclets, rings, necklaces, whales crackers, carribean blue drink, and salt water taffy.
What a fun party!!! Aaargg ye Mateys!!! Yo Ho Yo Ho A Pirates Life for Me!!!

Nicole's Birthday

2009-07-12T21:43:00.003-06:00

Nicole turned the big 6. She enjoyed her day getting this new outfit, going shopping with Grandma Lemon, then we had pizza for dinner. I felt bad because her birthday was a busy day, but we tried to make it special any ways.

After dinner it was present time. Grandma got her pencils to draw with, a webkinz, and a swim suit . . .
She got a new wallet, so she can put her Library card in it. She was thrilled.
And she finally got her own pair of Rollerblades. She was excited because know she won't have to fight with her siblings when they want to all go and ride them. After presents we went do to get a snow cone.

Yummy! Yummy! Yummy!

Ben and Ashlee

2009-07-12T21:39:00.002-06:00

So this is what happens when your best friend is a girl . . . Dress ups!!!
Ben felt so beautiful. He changed dresses many times, from Snow White, to the Wedding one, and to a pink gown. How fun is that! Not a care in the world, just happy to be playing.

The Best Summer Science Project Ever

2009-07-07T20:38:00.003-06:00

So Sara came home on June 14th with Seven caterpillars. She put them in a jar with a few branches and they immediately started crawling up the branches and hung up side down. We didn't think any thing about it, until the next morning when we woke up to this. In fact I am kind up sad they turned so quickly because we didn't get a picture of the caterpillars. Next time if there ever is a next time I will take pictures immediately.
The tops of the cocoons are the caterpillars skin coming off. A few weeks later we were wondering if they would ever change, but we woke up one morning to a few butterflies getting out of the cocoons. It was so awesome to watch.
When all seven were hatched it got a little squishy inside the jar so we carefully pulled out the branches and put them inside a card board box so that they could have room to dry their wings and fly a way.

This is the butterfly with the wings spread open.
Two of them flew in the house and so the kids and I got them and put them back in the box so they could fly a way. This one had a hurt wing and so Ty decided to get a picture holding it.
It is amazing how nature works and how miraculous our creator is. It is simply amazing and mind boggling.

Fat Cats

2009-07-07T20:30:00.002-06:00

So the kids came home from school with a gift card saying they could bowl 2 games free every day at Fat Cats, if you register at Fatcatsfun.com. So we did it. And sure enough all we had to pay for was the shoe rental. It was a fun day to spend together while it rained again outside.
Sara did really well bowling. She even had a few strikes. Way to go Sara!!!
Tyler and Nicole wait their turn to bowl. They were cheering each other on. Nicole won the first game and Ty won the second.
Ben getting ready to go bowl his favorite green ball.
He is such a big boy, he would do it all by himself. Sometimes the ball would stop half way down the lane, and we would have to get a worker to retrieve the ball. But for the most part he was a very good bowler.
Ben waiting for his ball to make it down the lane. He was so cute to watch. He would watch his ball the whole way down and then jump up and down so happy that he knocked down even just one pin.

I Can Do It

2009-07-07T20:26:00.002-06:00

So this is kind of funny. Ben has been bugging Craig and I for a while now to fix the flat on Nicole's old bike so he could ride it. Well, we kept putting it off, because he would never pedal his big wheel. So on June 9th, Craig finally gave in to his request, and there you have it. He immediately started riding the bike. My other kids would get on and always push backwards on the brakes, but not Ben. Off he went. Next time we will listen to him when he asks the first time.