The Francis Family

No!

2012-01-02T21:15:00.000-08:00

Another year of 'no'? Yes!

Last year was a pretty good year, for the most part. Still much busier that I like, but I got really good at telling people 'no' and prioritizing. I had a lot of fun with my kids and did a lot of things that I enjoy (quilting, reading, watching movies, etc.)

Some things I want to work on this year:

* Update and organize our food storage. Yikes. It's been a little neglected.
* Completely finish the downstairs bathroom.
* Run/walk 400 miles
* Update scrapbooks. Yikes.
* Finish unfinished sewing projects.
* Organize shelves in garage.
* Read 10 books from my list.
* Update blog twice a month. (We'll see about this one!)

Here we go 2012!

their wackiness and all...

2011-11-24T07:13:00.001-08:00

I guess as long as these three were in the mix, I'd be ok.

Oh, and this little guy, too:

Ok, and about a bazillion other things.

Em was teasing me the other day that I like Ryan more than her because he's so perfect and never does anything wrong (?). She's right about one thing: he is perfect. For me. And so is she. And so is Steve. I really wouldn't change a thing about any of them. You know the saying "we may not have it all together, but together we have it all"? Totally fits. We're kind of a hodge podge of souls and we like us that way.

(As I'm typing this, the kids are fighting about orange julius. Too much, the wrong cup, not drinking it fast enough, blah, blah. I'm sure it's just the first of many ridiculous arguments for the day. Yep, still love 'em.)

Summer vacay...

2011-09-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

We took the greatest little road trip this summer! We headed up to Portland, Oregon, down the coast to the Redwoods in California, then back up to Crater Lake in Oregon, then home. We stayed 5 nights and drove for hours on end, but had a wonderful time and saw the most beautiful sites! It was one of our best vacations so far.

Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls, Idaho.

Horsetail Falls

Multnomah Falls

Oregon Museum of
Science and Industry

We finally made it to the Oregon Coast!

A cute little souvenir shop overlooking the coast

Oregon Coast - so beautiful!

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Harbor Seals at Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Oregon Coast Aquarium - so awesome!

seahorses

giant jellyfish

Heceta Bay Lighthouse - my favorite!

Sea Lion Caves is one of my favorite places. The sea lions hang out in this huge cave right on the coast. You take an elevator down about 200 feet and right into the cave. Of course, the day we got there, there were no sea lions - they were all hanging out on the rocks on the beach. We did get to walk to an observation point where we could see tons of them.

We had the most beautiful view from our hotel room. It's hard to tell in this picture, though!

Driftwood Shores

We stopped for lunch at Gold Beach and it was so peaceful and beautiful until these crazy dogs joined us. They loved Em and kept running around her and kicking sand in her food.

Cool/sad story: "Mama" the gray whale swam up the Klamath River with her baby in late June. The baby stayed for a few weeks but then got hungry and headed back out to sea. Mama hung around a bridge that crossed the Klamath River for over 2 months. We stopped and watched her for a while and it was amazing. She was huge and put on quite a show for the spectators. We found out that 2 days after we saw her she beached herself and died.

Redwood National Forest

There are about 17 bazillion "big trees" in the forest, I wonder which one this sign is pointing to??

Another lighthouse - I can't remember the name of it. It was in Crescent City, California.

Rogue River Gorge

Crater Lake. I wasn't sure what to expect at this stop, but was so glad we made the effort to get here. It was really pretty and we were amazed at how this lake was formed. The mountain was a volcano that blew its top and then collapsed on itself forming this huge crater. The crater has filled with water from rain and snow and made this lake. So cool.

The water in this lake is the most incredible color of blue. The pictures don't even come close to showing the color that it really is.

Wizard Island

We had a really wonderful time! The kids got along so well - especially considering the MANY hours we spent in the car. The Oregon Coast has long been one of my favorite places in the world - I was so happy to get to see it again!

How did we do, you ask?

2011-08-29T16:25:00.000-07:00

Remember how we were determined to make this summer better than last? Awesome or Not Awesome? Bummer or Not Bummer? The verdict is in: Awesome and Not Bummer.

We accomplished most of the things on our list but didn't make it to some places. We are also a couple pages shy of our 5000 page reading goal, we kind of lost our mojo with the craziness of school starting. But I'm still going to reward the kids because they really worked hard at it and we're so close. I think we can finish before it gets cold!

Here's what we did this summer. Buckle yourself in and be ready for a TON of pictures.

Picnics in the canyon. We made it to Logan Canyon (Card picnic area, one of our new favorites), Green Canyon, and Tony Grove. It was so fun to just hang out, play games, eat lunch and chat.

Playing "Blink" - we love this game!

Green Canyon has an awesome cave!

Camping in the backyard. I'm not a huge fan of camping, but I can handle doing it in the backyard. I didn't sleep out with everyone, but I enjoyed hot dogs and s'mores - the best part of camping anyway!

Willow Park Zoo. I love that the kids still love going there. It isn't the biggest or greatest zoo, but they still get excited about everything there.

Backpacking. Steve and Ryan went backpacking to the Wind Rivers in Wyoming - they had a great time!

Christianson family reunion. This reunion is always a favorite for the kids. They love their cousins.

Sam and Lilly

My brother Steve and his little guy, Aiden

My nephew Zac trying to smash a cupcake in Em's hair.

Our annual Fourth of July BBQ: We've done this every year for the last 12 years or so. We eat, hang out, argue about where to watch the fireworks, then watch the fireworks.

Waiting for the fireworks to start

Cyclo-cross in Hyde Park. Steve competed in this wacky race. The cyclists bike around a course which is up and down hills, over obstacles, around trees, etc. while kids spray them with water and shoot marshmallows at them. I think it was much harder than it looks - each lap was pretty long and they had to do 5 laps. He was pretty pooped, especially considering that he ran 10 miles earlier that morning!

Promontory Point. Hot, dry, in the middle of nowhere, but actually pretty fun and interesting. The kids loved it.

Rocket launching. This is a fun tradition we try to do every year with the Hooper family. Chasing and trying to catch the rocket is always the funnest part!

Raptors games. Steve and Ryan love going to see the Raptors play in Ogden. Steve's parents are big fans, too. For Ryan's 'birthday week' we all went to a game and actually had a lot of fun!

Ryan's birthday. Ryan turned 15 in August. Yikes. The years are passing so quickly. He got his learner's permit on his birthday and now thinks he needs to drive EVERYWHERE we go. He also knows EVERYTHING about driving and isn't afraid to correct EVERY mistake you make. Love that boy.

Em made birthday pancakes, so cute!

I took him and a few of his buddies go-carting.

Minnetonka Cave. My friend Vanessa and I took our kids to Minnetonka Cave near Bear Lake. It really is an amazing place - quite a treasure for this area. It was freezing inside the cave (40 degrees) and we climbed 888 stairs, but it was totally worth it.

Bear Lake. After visiting the cave, we headed to Bear Lake for a few hours. This was our only trip to Bear Lake this summer, which makes me sad!

Tony Grove. On the way home from the lake, we stopped at Tony Grove just to walk around a little and play in the water. Oh, how I love Tony Grove. I think it is one of the most serene, peaceful, beautiful places there is.

A day at Tony Grove! Our neighbors, the Jones family, invited us to join them for some canoeing, fishing, and picnicking. We had such a great time and it was so beautiful!

The Wind Cave: For our grand finale, we made it to the Wind Cave. See the sign that says "Difficult"? It was. That is a tough hike but so worth it. The kids weren't all that impressed, though. We got to the top and Bailey (Em's friend) said "this is it?" and was pretty disappointed that we came all that way for just a cave. Steve and I think it's awesome. We stopped for Aggie Ice Cream on the way home and that was the perfect way to end a very busy, exhausting, awesome, not bummer summer.

Our 302k fun run...

2011-06-20T21:44:00.000-07:00

or other possible titles:
Holy Crap that was hard...
Did I really do that?
What was I thinking?
I think my toenails are falling off...

Steve and I both ran the Ragnar Wasatch Back Relay this last weekend. It was definitely one of the more difficult things I've ever done, but also one of the most rewarding. I ran 3 legs: 4 miles, 3.8 miles, and 4.2 miles. I had the easiest portion of the relay, and I am not a runner. In fact, I despise running. Our team started at 5:30 am Friday morning and we finished around 4:30 pm Saturday. You basically run, snack, sleep a little, run some more, snack a little more, sleep a little, and then run some more. It was pure misery and I loved every minute of it!

Things that got me through:
Steve with water
a very encouraging support team
beautiful scenery
singing out loud while running (it helps, really it does!)
encouragement from all the runners that blew past me

Music that got me through:
Maroon 5
Plain White Ts
Better than Ezra

Thoughts that got me through:
I can do anything I put my mind to
I love a good challenge
I will not stop moving
I can sleep/eat/pee when I get home

Things I'm proud of:
I ran the entire first 4 miles and actually felt pretty good and could have gone more if necessary
I never stopped. Even when I needed to power walk, I kept moving as fast as I could
I didn't swear
I felt genuinely happy for every runner and wanted them to succeed

Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. I'm really hoping that my back problems will go away (and the rest of my aching body will get better!) We're looking forward to next year!

Van 2: Steve, Ben, me, Andrew, Rachel, and Ashli

Em made us the cutest card and wrote the greatest poem. I hung it in the car so we could enjoy it throughout the weekend.

My first hand-off, I was completely physically ill at this point worrying about surviving! This run was 4 miles through Liberty. That it such a beautiful area.

My night run started around 10:00 pm at the East Canyon Reservoir and went uphill for 3.8 miles. It was tough. I couldn't run the entire way, but I did run most of it.

My final run went through Heber City for 4 miles. My hip was really bothering me so I ran the first mile or so, then walked/ran the next 2 miles, then ran the final mile.

These signs are either your best friend or worst enemy! You either think "I still have one mile to go" and you feel totally defeated, or "Wahoo! Only one mile!" When I saw this sign, I gave it a high-five and pushed through the pain in my hip and ran the final mile. Such a good feeling.

Steve ran what's known as "The Ragnar". It is a very steep, 4 mile climb up Guardian Pass. He rocked it, no surprise, right? I couldn't believe he was able to do it. I'm not sure I could have even walked it!

Total understatement.

That's him running up the hill.

We came from the bottom of this valley to the top of the mountain - beautiful!

There were a lot of funny vehicles along the route. This one cracked me up - so true!

These are some of our other teammates. The only thing I didn't like about the experience is that half of your team is in a different van and you don't really spend any time with them until the finish line. By then, you're all so exhausted and ready to go home that it isn't much fun.

192 miles, no shower, no substantial meals, porta-potties, very little sleep, stinky bodies, messy car, pain. Miserably good times!

Another one bites the dust...and another one gone....

2011-06-10T08:50:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks have been a little sad around here. First Gary, our snail, bit the dust. His wife Elaine died a couple of weeks earlier. It stung. But we still have Eddie Cootchie Catchy Kama Tosa Neera Tosa Noka Sama Kama Wacky-Brown, and he appears to be fine. For now.

Then our sweet little Seraphine (we called her Sarey) went back to live with her parents. She was only with us for 1 week, and was a total sweetheart. This actually did sting. I wish we would never have any placements because a placement means a cute little kiddo is dealing with stuff they shouldn't have to deal with. Stupid adults.

Ryan bit the dust on the soccer field. Broken collar bone. Boring summer. He was in a lot of pain for the first couple of days but is doing much better now. He can't do anything - except sit around and watch TV, a mother's dream come true!

Next was Juan Carlos Esteban Rodriguez Francis, our betta fish. We knew he was having problems when he kept trying to jump out of his tank. He didn't last long after that.

The saddest was Emily having to say goodbye to 4th grade and THE GREATEST TEACHER WHO EVER WALKED THE EARTH. She actually was an incredible teacher and Emily absolutely loved her. They had a sweet relationship - Em called her "Mrs. S" and she called Em "Miss E". We wish she could just follow Em and be her teacher .... just through college, that's all.

Em received the "Medalion" award for citizenship and academics.

Some of her BFFs, Addi and Hadlie

Miss E and Mrs. S!

Some of the cute kiddos in her class!

Em and her friends decorated their teacher's car

Emily has stopped crying and Ryan has stopped hurting, so I think we can start summer now!

Our not bummer summer...

2011-05-27T08:54:00.000-07:00

Last summer was NOT AWESOME and we are determined to make this one better! I asked the kids to make a list of the things they wanted to do most throughout the summer. I thought it was funny how close all our lists are.

Ryan's list:

Riverdale
7 Peaks
Willow Park Zoo
Bear Lake
Tony Grove
picnics
weekly movies
caves
museums in Ogden
Fun Park
Rock Haus

Em's list:
Skyview to swim
N. Ogden pool
Timpanogos Cave
any museums
Bear Lake
tennis
Willow Park
Fun Park
Riverdale
7 Peaks
weekly movies

My list:
Windcaves
Riverdale
picnics in Logan Canyon
weekly library visits
Minnetonka Caves
Bear Lake
Tony Grove
weekly movies

We have also set a goal to read a combined total of 5000 pages. Last summer we did 2500 pages, but we didn't start until around July. We're doubling it this year and starting now. When we reach our goal, we will go to either the N. Ogden pool or Cherry Hill. Looking forward to a great summer!

We say hello, we say goodbye...,

2011-05-18T15:12:00.000-07:00

Our cute little McKenna went to live with grandparents yesterday. She was with us for less than 2 weeks, but we sure got attached! She was such a little sweetheart and loaded with personality. We really miss having her around!

2011-05-06T13:03:00.000-07:00

I dare you not to cry while reading this:

http://dennyandwendy.blogspot.com/2011/05/our-sweet-wendy.html

I'm trying really hard to change my attitude about Mother's Day - it's definitely not my favorite day of the year. This should do it for a while.

(I have no idea who these people are and came upon this blog through another blog I like.)

mahjong ... woop woop!

2011-04-12T17:40:00.000-07:00

We've been laughing our hineys off over this....

playing catch up...

2011-03-20T08:57:00.000-07:00

This has been a crazy year so far - but filled with fun things that we enjoy, so we're happy.

We just finished Winter Quarter at the ELC. This was a wonderful group of students. They were all so positive, kind, and eager to learn. We had a great time and I hope to get most of them back next quarter!

Charya, Jieun, and Mili - sweet ladies!

I'm starting to forget the names of students that I've had in the past - so I'm listing them here.

Front: Mili (Peru), Guadalupe (Mexico), Flory (Guatemala), Maria (Bolivia), Dana (Phillipines), Martha (El Salvador). Back: Theresa (Mexico), Me, Charya (Cambodia), Luis (Guatemala), Elena (Peru), Nawal (Jordan), Jieun (S. Korea), Prabanjalee (Sri Lanka). Not pictured: Lilian (Brazil), Silvana (Brazil), Manuel (Mexico), Teresa (Mexico), Ming (China?), Hyung (S. Korea).

Mariha, our foster daughter, went back to live with her mom earlier this month. She lived with us for 7 months. It was a tough 7 months, but we learned a lot of valuable lessons and were glad that we got to know her. We were also glad to be part of a reunification - she was so excited to be back with her mom.

We had a party for her the night before she left. We invited some of her friends from the neighborhood and had pizza. The kids all signed a pajama shirt for her. I think they had a great time - if the screaming, giggling, and running through the house are any indication - they had a blast!

Ryan is playing Lacrosse this year and I have to admit I really love it. It is so fun to watch. I have really missed watching him play soccer - he was on a competitive team for about 5 years and when it ended I was pretty sad. Lacrosse has kind of the same feel as soccer - the fast pace and the intensity. There are some great kids on the team and the coaching staff is so positive and encouraging. He is doing really well and seems to love it.

We went to a tournament in Boise two weekends ago, and one in Salt Lake this last weekend. It has been a little crazy, but so fun!

Em was in the spelling bee this year. She took 5th - which was very exciting. She had some tough words like encyclopedia and scientific. I can't remember the other words she had but she got out on "futuristic" . She claims that she hates that word now. :) We were very proud of her!

Ryan organized a basketball team with his buddies and Em played Junior Jazz.

Em's class had a contest to see who could make the most creative Valentine's box. She raided the recycling can and created this:

You could drop the valentines in and then watch them fall to the bottom. She won the contest by one vote!

Grandma sent another awesome Valentine's box this year. The kids opened it when I wasn't there so I didn't get pictures. grrr, they should know better! They loved making the candy suckers and decorating the house with cute stuff!

I think this long winter is getting the best of everyone! Em and Bailey got creative with the garbage again and made giraffe and owl costumes. Such goofballs!

They also had "dork night" where they dressed up like dorks and watched a movie. They're pretty good at keeping themselves entertained!

Another Monster Concert:

We LOVE the Monster Concert. It's the main reason we send Em to the YC, which can be a complete pain. This year she got to play two numbers and did great!

Happy Birthday...

2011-02-09T12:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Scooter's birthday - we missed it last year so this year we made sure to celebrate it. He got a new do and a new toy. He was thrilled!

Love this quote...

2011-02-06T21:17:00.001-08:00

"Women rock a sobbing child without wondering if today's world is passing them by, because they know they hold tomorrow tightly in their arms. When the real history of mankind is fully disclosed, will it feature the echoes of gunfire - or the shaping sounds of lullabies? Will what happened in cradles and kitchens prove to be more controlling than what happened in Congresses?" - Neal A. Maxwell

2010 in 5:55

2011-01-07T14:49:00.000-08:00

(**A little better quality now!)

2010 was a good year - a little busier than I like - but overall an OK year.

The quality of this slideshow stinks, perhaps when I have a little more time to mess with it, I'll figure out a better way to post it.

I'm making some changes this year. This is going to be the year of "no". I won't be doing any photography. I'm seriously considering deleting my Facebook account. Blogging? Who knows. I have a list of books I'm working and am determined to read at least 10 books from that list. I have a few physical feats I'm taking on and am excited about. I want to focus on just the things I love and love doing. Just some ramblings....

Happy (late) New Year!

Lately....

2010-09-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen anything cuter than Scooter? I couldn't find him the other day and when I did, he was nestled up in my pillows having a nice little nap.


He also loves to burrow in to blankets. He is just so darn cute.

Steve ran the marathon last weekend. He cut about 15 minutes off his previous time! He is having a hard time walking today and says he'll never run again, but I'll give him another day and he'll be back out there.

His goal was to be under 4 hours and he came in at 3:59:43. Phew.

Since Em saw Ramona and Beezus earlier this summer, she has been spending every spare minute in this tree. She and her friends all have "sitting spots". She'll spend hours up there reading or just hanging out. I think it's pretty cute, but I'm hoping/praying that there are no missteps or slips - she's gets pretty far up there!

Em also loves helping me in the kitchen. She has become quite the breadmaker! It is so fun to see her want to learn baking skills. She is growing up way too fast but I love the cute little young lady she is becoming!

If you're looking for a good read...

2010-08-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

I started this book a couple of years ago but got distracted by other books and kind of forgot about it. I recently came back to it and am so glad I did! It is so beautifully written - very descriptive without overkill - which I think is a rare talent that few authors possess.

A review I read recently said the following about it:
"Peace Like a River serves as a reminder of why we read fiction to begin with: to commune with a vividly, lovingly rendered world, to lose ourselves in story and language and beauty, to savor what we don't want to end yet know must."

—Andrew Roe, San Francisco Chronicle

—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

I highly recommend it if you're looking for a delightful escape!

Bittersweet day...

2010-08-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

I normally love the first day of school - I get so excited for the kids to finally get back to what they love. And, let's be honest, I love having a little free time to get back to what I love! But this summer wasn't our best. We were way too busy and didn't get to do a lot of the stuff we wanted to. Next summer will be different. I'm already excited for it.


I'm certain that I have the cutest kids with the cutest friends!

Em got the teacher she reeeaaalllyyy wanted, so that was a nice surprise to end a crappy summer!

Climbing the walls...

2010-08-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

This is what Em has been doing ALL SUMMER. Do you think it's time to go back to school? One week from today!

Funny blog...

2010-07-28T18:26:00.000-07:00

I came across this funny blog about fictional Gary & Elaine who live in the pages of catalogs. It's kind of a crack-up.

While Gary and Elaine were in the kitchen getting popcorn, the brave yellow sweater attempted its escape.

Some of you may like it!

New logo...

2010-07-12T20:00:00.000-07:00

"I'm kind of a big deal" ....my favorite line from this little piece of awesomeness...

2010-05-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

census question...

2010-04-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

So, do you think we should include Scooter in the census? He thinks he's human. He's treated like one of the family. He had Cheerios for breakfast this morning. I asked him what he thought but he didn't say much. I think he was offended that I would even ask.

couldn't resist.....

2010-03-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist following this little guy around today

and I couldn't resist buying this gorgeous Easter Lily last week. I've been patiently waiting for it to open - I guess if I can't have Spring outside, I'll bring it inside!

Worth the wait, don't you think?

2010-03-08T08:35:00.001-08:00

Happy National Grammar Day!

2010-03-04T19:26:00.000-08:00

I totally forgot to tell my students it was National Grammar Day. Grrr. We could have had so much fun with it. What kind of word dork/grammar geek am I?

In honor or NGD, tell me your favorite word. Mine is "gazebo" with "coagulate" taking a close second. C'mon - you know you want to...

Seuss goodness...

2010-03-02T17:02:00.000-08:00

This has long been one of my favorite poems by Dr. Suess:

Today you are you.
That is truer than true.
There is no one alive that is you'er than you.
Shout aloud, ‘I am glad to be what I am.
Thank goodness I’m not a ham or a clam or a
dusty old bottle of gooseberry jam!
I am what I am.
What a great thing to be
If I say so myself,
HAPPY EVERYDAY TO ME!'

Happy Birthday to a brilliant man!

2010-01-31T15:30:00.000-08:00

I saved my favorite quote for last. When Steve and I first got married, I typed this quote and had it laminated. I put it on our fridge in our very first apartment and have had it hanging on the fridge ever since. Whenever we've moved, it's one of the first things I put up. I read it often and it always gives me a little boost - a little guideline - something I agree whole-heartedly with. It's a ratty, tacky, dirty magnet - but I love it.

There are a couple different versions of this quote, but this is my favorite one. And this is my blog. And I'll do what I want.

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." --Ralph Waldo Emerson

2010-01-30T15:48:00.000-08:00

You must be the change you want to see in the world. -- Mahatma Gandhi

whoops, again! Missed yesterday...

2010-01-29T09:16:00.000-08:00

Another favorite - and so true!

"In all of living, have much fun and laughter. Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured."
--Gordon B. Hinckley

I tell myself this about a hundred times a day:

"To thine own self be true." --William Shakespeare

The full quote, however, is even better:

"This above all: to thine own self be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man...."

Love this one...

2010-01-27T18:01:00.001-08:00

Courage, not compromise, brings the smile of God's approval.
--Thomas S. Monson

Almost there...

2010-01-26T16:22:00.000-08:00

This is much harder than I thought it would be. I collect 'thoughts' and have a bazillion of them, but choosing my favorites has been a challenge.

For today:

Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson

pretty logical, huh?

Remember the good ol' days?

2010-01-25T15:20:00.000-08:00

You know those days when you get chilled and can't get warm no matter what you do? Today is one of those days. I'm so wanting Summer right now.

Even the seagulls wouldn't bother me today. (If you know how I feel about seagulls, that tells a lot!)

2010-01-25T13:04:00.000-08:00

Blessed is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another.
--George Eliot

2010-01-24T16:33:00.001-08:00

Always kiss your children goodnight - even if they're already asleep.
--H. Jackson Brown, Jr

whoops, missed yesterday...

2010-01-23T10:07:00.000-08:00

...but I'll make it up with two awesome "deep thoughts" by Jack Handy:

If you're in a war, instead of throwing a hand grenade at the enemy, throw one of those small pumpkins. Maybe it'll make everyone think how stupid war is, and while they are thinking, you can throw a real grenade at them.

I hope some animal never bores a hole in my head and lays its eggs in my brain, because later you might think you're having a good idea but it's just eggs hatching.

2010-01-21T16:50:00.000-08:00

No matter how calmly you try to referee, parenting will eventually produce bizarre behavior, and I'm not talking about the kids. --Bill Cosby

It's been one of those days here at our house.

2010-01-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in moments of challenge and controversy." --Martin Luther King, Jr.

2010-01-19T08:44:00.000-08:00

Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.
--Charles W. Eliot, The Happy Life, 1896

What's everyone reading? I'm currently reading Joy in the Morning by Betty Smith for book club. I'm really enjoying it so far - it's bringing back a lot of memories of the early days of marriage. I'm also about half way through The Book Thief and I'm enjoying that one as well.

on kids...

2010-01-18T06:47:00.000-08:00

Mother Nature, in her infinite wisdom, has instilled within each of us a powerful biological instinct to reproduce; this is her way of assuring that the human race, come what may, will never have any disposable income. --Dave Barry

There is only one pretty child in the world, and every mother has it. --Chinese Proverb

Another favorite....

2010-01-17T12:34:00.000-08:00

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
--Marianne Williamson (quoted by Nelson Mandela in his inauguration speech. Correct me if I'm wrong on this! I know it was one of his speeches, but not totally sure if it was an inauguration.)

more than half way there...

2010-01-16T13:46:00.000-08:00

This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson

I wish I knew!

2010-01-15T10:27:00.000-08:00

It is easy enough to be pleasant,
when life flows by like a song.
But the man worthwhile
is one who will smile,
when everything goes dead wrong.
-- Ella Wheeler Wilcox

All-time favorite movie quote...

2010-01-14T06:06:00.000-08:00

I'm in love, I'm in love, and I don't care who knows it! -- Buddy the Elf

(you know, when he comes bursting into the conference room during the big meeting...)

and.......

Happy Birthday, Steve!

If you see this old man today, give him a hard time!

(...and please disregard the BYU shirt Ryan is wearing. Our fingers are crossed that this phase is over - he gave all his BYU stuff to his cousin. Yes!)

2010-01-13T17:04:00.000-08:00

All the world is full of suffering. It is also full of overcoming. --Helen Keller

2010-01-12T20:47:00.000-08:00

Work will win when wishy washy wishing won't. --Thomas S. Monson

2010-01-11T09:40:00.000-08:00

It's nice to be nice to the nice. --Frank Burns

It's really just nice to be nice.

2010-01-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened. --Dr. Suess

Great perspective!

Another of my favorites...

2010-01-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

“Real charity is not something you give away; it is something that you acquire and make a part of yourself. And when the virtue of charity becomes implanted in your heart, you are never the same again. …

“Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don’t judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone’s differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn’t handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of another’s weakness and being willing to forgive someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other” --Marvin J. Ashton

More Pooh...

2010-01-08T06:21:00.000-08:00

It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn't use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like "What about lunch?" -- Winnie the Pooh

Love lunch!

For today...

2010-01-07T10:17:00.000-08:00

Don't waste yourself in rejection, nor bark against the bad, but chant the beauty of the good. --Ralph Waldo Emerson

2010-01-06T12:27:00.000-08:00

Two for today since I missed yesterday!

Choose your love, Love your choice. --Thomas S. Monson

What do we live for, if not to make life less difficult for each other? --George Eliot

A quote a day...

2010-01-04T12:48:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine was asking for inspiring quotes on Facebook and it got me thinking that it would be fun to post some of my favorites. I'd like to post one for each day of January (minus the 3 days I've already missed!)

"When you are a Bear of Very Little Brain, and Think of Things, you find sometimes that a Thing which seemed very Thingish inside you is quite different when it gets out into the open and has other people looking at it."
-- Winnie the Pooh

This happens to me all the time. Things always seem better and smarter inside my head.

I think Pooh is my favorite philosopher!

2009-12-22T10:47:00.000-08:00

Craft blog...

2009-12-12T20:12:00.000-08:00

I'm making my craft blog public (yikes!) if you would like to view it.

It's called "Crafty Ang" - enjoy!

2009-12-12T08:33:00.000-08:00

2009-12-11T07:59:00.000-08:00

Can I hear a hallelujah? An amen?

2009-11-23T17:38:00.000-08:00

I've been reading a lot on Facebook and blogs about what people are grateful for. I'll join in. While I'm very grateful for these little goofballs:

and this handsome stud:

and this little cutie:

and a million other things, lately I've been VERY grateful that
our basement is finally finished!
It took us 2 1/2 years, but we are very happy with the result.
Can I brag for a moment?

the family room before:

and after:

I can't find the picture of Em's room before, but here is the after:

Ryan's room before:

and after:

and my sewing/craft room before:

and after:

Let the decorating begin! Can't wait. We love it!

Trip to Oxnard...

2009-09-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

Our neighbors, the Christensens, told me I put too many pictures on my blog. What?!?! Pure hogwash, I say! You can't have too many pictures on a blog - especially with kiddos as cute as mine! If you see 'em, tell 'em they're crazy (the Christensens, that is).

In August we took a trip to Oxnard, CA. Steve had to go there for work so we tagged along. We spent a week in a beautiful hotel ON THE BEACH. It was gorgeous and we had a blast.

The view of the hotel from the beach...

One of the highlights was renting this chariot/surrey thing and cruising up and down along the beach. We had a riot in it.

We reluctantly let Em steer and she was a total maniac. We almost tipped over a few times and she was all over the grass and in the sand. I can't imagine that she'll ever pass a driving test.

Ryan was fearing for his life...

The hotel grounds were gorgeous...

Our view from the hotel...

Ry turned 13 while we were there.

Love this kid!

He wanted to go to the Santa Barbara Zoo for his birthday, so we ventured up there and spent the day. It was a nice little zoo.

This guy kept staring right at me. It kind of freaked me out a little...

We saw quite a few dolphins only about 20-30 yards from where we were sitting on the beach. It was pretty exciting!

I can't get enough of the beach. I was very sad to leave it behind on the last day.

We loved hanging around the Channel Islands Harbor area. We rented a paddle-boat and cruised around for a while. It was beautiful.

I have about 400 more pictures, wanna see 'em? Just let me know....

How to be Disorganized & Unproductive....

2009-09-07T07:06:00.000-07:00

I've been reorganizing our entire home lately. bleh. I'm not a perfectionist, but I do like things to be orderly and clean. We just finished our basement and now I am rearranging almost every room and I feel like I'm creating more of a disaster than we started with! I keep reminding myself "it has to get worse before it can get better..." but I am so anxious to get it all done and move on to bigger and better things!

I came across this article the other day and thought it seemed pretty sensible. I like that someone else has put into writing what I've been thinking as I've been decluttering, chucking and revamping!

http://simplemom.net/how-to-be-disorganized-unproductive-2-aim-for-perfection/

Found a gem...

2009-06-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

While watching some home movies, we came across this clip from when Ryan was 6 and Emily was 2. We were at Disneyland and it was a total downpour and our rental van had a flat tire. We were stuck in the hotel room for most of the day.

Em (yes, here's proof that she's been doing this since she discovered she had a voice box) entertained us.

My favorite things about the clip:
- her runny nose and her hair stuck in the snot
- the big wad of gum
- the upside down crown
- Ryan spanking her while she's singing

Enjoy!

Good times...

2009-06-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

Only a few more days and then let the fun begin! I put this together when I thought Winter would never end, but I think we've finally gotten rid of it.

Here's to another great Summer!

Giant Random Recap.....

2009-05-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

Blogging would be so much easier if I would keep up on it, but I don't, so here is a very lengthy recap of an incredibly busy last couple of months.

Two of my students, Savoun and Hap, got their US citizenship last week. Very exciting!

Another soccer season...

I love trying to get a good action shot - so there are a ton!

Em kept herself entertained at Ryan's games...

Em played Cousin It's team...

My Spring Quarter class...

Hap, Saveun, Angel, Guadalupe, Angelica, Sam, Mercedes, Patricia, Gabriel, Eduvina, Salvador, Sarey and Savoun. I love these people!

Weekend trip to St. George for my nephew's wedding...

I got to be their photographer - they are such a cute couple!

We stayed at my brother Roger's house and the kids loved riding his horses and hanging out at his place...

Easter Egg Hunt...

Easter morning...

New Easter dress...

Decorating Easter Eggs with cousins...

Science Fair...

Dinosaur Diorama...

Emily played in the "Monster Concert".....

And yes, I'm going back to February - that's about how long it's been since I've done this kind of a post!

Valentine's package from Grandma...a favorite!

Scooter even got a treat....
He loved it!

cool moon last night...

2009-04-10T16:21:00.000-07:00

A minority...

2009-03-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today was the last day of our quarter, so I went to lunch with some of my students. I caught a glimpse of what it must be like to be the minority. I can't say that I liked the feeling! I never knew what any of them were talking about and my brain ached trying to keep up with the conversation. They are a delightful bunch and I am really going to miss those that won't be there next quarter.

Ryan came with me one day as part of a 'job shadow' for his school. He loved meeting my students and hearing them speak. I had each of them write him a note in their language and he was thrilled to get a sampling of their writing - especially the Cambodian script, it's very interesting.

Here he is with Rodrigo (from Brazil)

and Sam and Hap (both from Cambodia)

I'm looking forward to another quarter - I really love this job!

They were totally in to it.....

2009-03-17T09:31:00.000-07:00

Only in Utah...

2009-03-13T20:56:00.000-07:00

Only in Utah can you go from skiing on Tuesday to golfing on Saturday. Ryan's school had a ski day so Steve, Em and I joined him and had a great time. The weather was perfect - jackets and no gloves. Ahhh, the perfect ski day.

We were exhausted - and our faces got fried!

I took a trip to St. George with some high school friends last weekend. We had a riot and it was so good to get away and laugh until my stomach hurt. We always have a great time together and there is never a dull moment.

We thought we were pretty cool on the golf course, but really? We weren't so much.

Laurie gave up on traditional putting and opted for a 'billiard style' putt.

She sure looked cute, though...

Nat had beautiful form and a mean swing.... and no clubs were bent or thrown!

Cristy likes to point at things while having her picture taken. She made an awesome 'golf pro'.

The course was gorgeous!

We also shopped and spent way too much money, ate out and consumed way too many calories, but it was an awesome trip and I'm so glad I went. Thanks to Cristy for her hospitality and putting up with us!

Love this guy...

2009-03-09T19:57:00.000-07:00

I missed this game, but apparently my favorite guy was at it again.

Calling all grammar geeks....

2009-03-04T16:02:00.000-08:00

Happy National Grammar Day!

I'm thinking of getting this shirt....

Cute, eh? It says: Everyday, is national Grammer Day - but it's been 'corrected' with a red pen. Me loves it.

woot woot!

2009-02-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/rankings (check out #21/17)

http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1151776/index.htm (interesting article)

Go Ags!

LMBO at the last game at this:

This guy was doing some kind of 'strip tease' type moves as the other team was shooting foul shots. He was slapping his thigh and pulling his shorts up to show off his sexy leg. I thought I would die laughing.

Kind of unrelated - but stinkin' hilarious
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpHB6W_r9ag&feature=related

Update...

2009-02-01T04:59:00.000-08:00

These last couple of weeks have been so busy, blogging has not been a high priority. I know that Christmas is long over, but I have tons of pictures that I never got around to posting, so enjoy!

A new puppy - this is how Em kept herself entertained all day Christmas Eve.

Decorating a gingerbread house.

Christmas Eve...

Em made cookies and hot chocolate for Santa...

Christmas morning...Rock Band - another reason blogging is a low priority - Rock Band Rocks!

I also started a new job this month. I am now teaching English at the English Language Center. I really love it so far. I have 11 students: 4 Cambodian, 6 Spanish speaking (from Guatemala, El Salvador, and Mexico) and one Brazilian. They are a lot of fun and are so eager to learn.

Be grateful if you speak English fluently - it is such a complicated and confusing language.

2009-01-22T12:49:00.000-08:00

Favorite line from 'Lost' last night:

Hugo to Sayid (when Sayid refused a french fry from Hugo): "You know, maybe if you'd eat more comfort food you wouldn't have to go around shooting people."

Amen to that!

Caution: Lots of cute pictures of cute kids having fun in the snow...

2008-12-24T13:23:00.000-08:00

Shhhh....

2008-12-24T13:15:00.000-08:00

I made a bed for Emily's American Girl Doll. I'm not known for my sewing or woodworking skills, but dang! these turned out pretty cute! I had extra materials so I made one for her friend Bailey, too. I hope they like them!

Cute Christmas poem...

2008-12-19T15:20:00.000-08:00

Em wrote the cutest poem in class a couple of weeks ago. The translation is below. Apparently she's sad about it no longer being pheasant season. I thought it was pretty clever!

It is almost Christmas
it is coming soon
right now it is December 5
in the afternoon.
I rilly love Christmas
because I get lost of presents,
but now sense it's colder
we wont be shooting pheasants.
Soon Santa will be coming
down our big fat chimney
he'll bring me lots of presents
then say hello to see me.
Now its geting closer
and colder
we won't be going out just
to ride roller costers.
Now it is Christmas
we got a lot of toys,
and now sense it's Christmas
it broght us lots of JOY.

The marching man...my favorite Amazing Race Moment this season

2008-12-18T05:37:00.001-08:00

The Big 4-0

2008-12-14T07:34:00.000-08:00

I normally try to avoid getting philosophical on my blog, but just indulge me for a moment. I turned 40 today. I know I'm not the first to accomplish such a tremendous feat, but I get a little sentimental and reflective on birthdays.

I've never been one to get depressed about getting older. I am honestly and deeply grateful that I am getting older - I always think about those who are denied the opportunity. I'm healthy, happy, safe and comfortable - what more could I want? I get to spend my days with the three people I love and adore more than anything in this world. I am the luckiest human on the planet.

A couple of months ago I thought it would be fun to make a list of some of my greatest memories and experiences. I learned a few things about myself: 1) I don't care much for possessions. I'm more about relationships and experiences; and 2) WOW! What a fun ride it has been. I haven't done even close to what I would like to do before I expire, but I have been very blessed with opportunities and experiences that I think have molded the person I am today.

Here is the list, it's very random and not in any particular order.

In 40 years

I’ve...
gotten married
held a human brain
sunbathed on both the Waikiki and Copacabana Beaches
adopted a child
given birth to a child
visited the Caribbean Islands
broken a finger twice in the exact same place
had surgery, twice, on said finger in the exact same place
ice blocked down Old Main Hill
had many friends whom I’ve loved and adored
seen the Tetons on a cloudless day
had a c-section
swam in canals, rivers, lakes, ponds, and oceans
read and loved many books
collected bugs
toured a rain forest
ridden in a taxi and thought I might die
played on a championship team
fished on the Homer Spit
graduated from college, twice
swam with sea turtles
gotten straight As
built a house, twice

I’ve been...
to Brazil
fishing on the Ninilchik River in Alaska
atop the Pao de Azucar in Brazil
to Puerto Rico, twice
to Disneyland, many times
skinnydipping
through the catacombs under USU, more than once, shhh...
pregnant
on a cruise
lost in the Alaskan wilderness
a spelling bee champion

I’ve learned to...
crochet
sew
play the piano
knit
tie my shoes
read
ride a bike
drive
water ski
snow ski
love unconditionally
overcome some fears and insecurities

I’ve seen...
miracles
Beluga Whales swim in the ocean
The Grand Geyser erupt at Yellowstone
Phil Collins
Bon Jovi
Chicago
Kenny Loggins, twice!
the Christus statue in Brazil
the Ipanema Beach
absolute and pure joy on the faces of my children
a semi-truck tip over on the highway

I have really loved my life. I have amazing parents, wonderful in-laws, fun and supportive friends, and siblings and other family members that I adore. Most importantly I have a wonderful husband and the greatest kids a mom could want.

Here's to at least 40 more years and a new list of adventures!

2008-12-13T15:27:00.000-08:00

Miscellaneous Christmas stuff...

2008-12-08T08:39:00.000-08:00

We went to Temple Square Saturday night after the Aggie vs. Bougar game. The game stunk but Temple Square was a lot of fun. Our kids are at perfect ages right now where they are really in to Christmas and still love everything about it.

We put up our Christmas decorations last night and that was a lot of fun, too. I can't believe how excited kids get about decorating the tree! One of my favorite things about Christmas is our ornaments. Steve's mom gave her kids an ornament each year and then when we got married we inherited Steve's collection. She still gives the kids an ornament each year and it has become one of our favorite traditions. The star above is my favorite one of Steve's - from 1972ish. There's just something about it that I love. Not sure what.

Funny side story: Ryan made banana bread last night and when we took it out of the oven he confessed that he might have put in a little too much vanilla - on purpose. He loves the smell of vanilla and assumed that because it smells so good, TONS of it must taste really good. He learned a valuable lesson that too much of a good thing is not so good.

We thought we were pretty funny....

2008-11-22T18:44:00.000-08:00

Steve and I went to a Halloween party, hosted by Mark & Georgia. It was a total riot. We had a lot of fun playing the Wii, gambling for white elephant gifts, and enjoying yummy food. We dressed up as Aggie Football Fans - it hasn't been a great season - but I'm not sure very many people really got it. Ah well, we thought we were funny.

(Georgia - I stole this pic off your blog! Thanks!)

More Halloween Hoop-la

2008-11-01T19:43:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...

2008-10-31T15:53:00.000-07:00

The truth hurts...

2008-10-30T12:28:00.001-07:00

I went with Emily and her class on a field trip today and was asked to stay in the back of the line and watch for straggling kids. Apparently Emily didn't know they had asked me to do that and I heard her yell "Wait for my mom, she's 39! She only runs if someones chasing her with a knife!"

She knows me well.

2008-10-27T16:10:00.000-07:00

This has become a fun little road trip that we love to take. Remember this? We went there again this year. The Briggs' are so hospitable and make us feel right at home.

We went up through Jackson Hole and then over to Teton. This is a gorgeous time of year for driving through this area. The Tetons were more beautiful than I've ever seen them.

We stopped along the Snake River and skipped rocks. It was so pretty.

We drove over the Teton Pass and is was gorgeous!

This is the amazing Haunted Mill The mask Ryan got to wear to work in the mill and terrify people!

I wonder where Em gets her goofiness from... hmm...

The kids had a blast spending time with their cousins.

Thanks again to the Briggs family and Holly & Dave - we had a wonderful time!

Emily's baptism day

2008-10-27T15:53:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting around to getting these posted. The last couple of weeks have been insanely busy! Emily's baptism day was such a great day. It snowed that morning and a little throughout the day and we were very worried about everyone traveling - but thankfully everyone made it here and back with no trouble.

She had a lot of family and friends here to support her. We are so blessed with amazing family and friends.

Em is such a fun part of our family and it was so great to celebrate this special day!

Grandma C.

Grandma F.

Cousin Brynn

Grandpa F., Dave, Holly, Liliona, Grandma F.

Michael, Matthew, Connor & Alec

the 'big sandwich'!
Amazingly there was only about a foot of it left!

Ahh, the craziness...

2008-10-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

Crazy Hair Day, again! It's amazing how quickly the year goes by. Ryan did his own this year - not bad! I took his picture right after he took a bite of his breakfast. He was thrilled. Em was excited to have hooks to hang her jacket on. (Only Em would think of that...)

DWTS

2008-10-23T11:05:00.000-07:00

Funny, eh?

(Steve just forwarded this to me and it totally cracked me up.)

The big day...

2008-10-04T05:04:00.000-07:00

Em is finally 8. She's been waiting for this her whole life as she often reminds me . The celebration was a little toned-down this year as she didn't want a friend party. With the baptism next week, she thought that would be enough celebrating and I didn't complain! I would say it was a low-key, quiet day, but with Emily nothing is low-key or quiet. Have I mentioned she can be a little dramatic at times?

I didn't get a picture of her bedroom door, but Ryan got up at 5:50 am to decorate it before he had to leave for school. How sweet is that? He is an awesome big brother.

2008-09-27T11:53:00.000-07:00

Favorite part from "The Office" on Thursday:

Michael: "Does anyone have any idea what the number one cause of death is in this country?"

Dwight: "Shotgun weddings."

Creed: "Fright, being scared to death."

I don't think I've ever laughed so hard during a TV show. So glad The Office is back.

The marathon...

2008-09-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

We didn't plan a funeral this week. No heart attacks, no amputations, no blisters - just a lot of sore muscles. Steve finished the marathon in 4:14. Awesome, eh? He got a medal to add to his collection and I got a new shirt, he he. (I like to take over his race shirts.)

Invitation

2008-09-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

Emily helped me design her invitation for her baptism. I think it turned out pretty cute!

Photo shoot

2008-09-22T07:26:00.000-07:00

I took Ryan's 12 year old pictures and Emily's 8 year old and baptism pictures last night. Photo shoots are funny - the end result makes it seem like everyone just sat there and smiled. Not true!

The facade:

The reality:

Food for thought...

2008-09-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law sent me this link - I thought it was interesting. You might, too!

Breakfast of Champions

2008-09-19T08:06:00.000-07:00

Steve was complaining this morning that there was no 'champion' on the Wheaties box. I took care of that for him. He's running the marathon tomorrow. Wish him luck!

He'll be an engineer...

2008-09-10T09:01:00.000-07:00

A few of you might relate...

I can totally imagine Steve being like this as a kid. He's still taking everything apart and building new things out of the 'components'.

Withdrawals...

2008-08-25T13:17:00.000-07:00

Is anyone but me really missing the Olympics? We had a lot of fun watching them every day and I'm feeling really sad that they're over! It was a very productive time for me, though.

I made a quilt...

a pin cushion...

and a doll blanket and some pajama bottoms for Em...

Having some fun projects to work on makes me feel not so guilty about spending so much time watching TV. Too bad regular TV isn't as exciting!

1/2 marathon

2008-08-25T13:14:00.000-07:00

Steve ran the Top of Utah 1/2 marathon on Saturday. He beat his last year's time by a few minutes so he was pretty happy about that. Em and I handed out water and Gatorade at one of the aid stations. It was a fun morning and we're looking forward to the full marathon in September!

Just Scooter and me...

2008-08-21T12:13:00.000-07:00

School started today and the kids were thrilled to be getting back to the life they love. They were so excited to see their friends and Em can't wait for homework!?! Is she really my child? Ryan was most excited for the pizza at lunch. He is for sure my child.

I can't believe how much I've accomplished since early this morning when Ryan left. It's amazing how productive you can be without a bazillion distractions.

Scooter looks a little deflated, I think he misses them. I'm sure he'll lick 'em to death when they get home. He's waiting by the door...

Some pics of the big day:

Ry still catches the bus at the crack of dawn. And no, he wasn't a bit embarrassed to have his picture taken this morning.

Emily told me the other day "all my dreams are coming true - I got the teacher I've wanted my whole life". Have I mentioned that she can be a little dramatic at times?

Makeover...

2008-08-19T14:24:00.000-07:00

It's been 2 years since I started blogging and I had the same template the whole time. I decided it was time for a new look. What do you think?

Summer recap...

2008-08-19T13:08:00.000-07:00

This has been an insanely busy summer and I'm so glad it's coming to an end! Here are a few of the things we did this summer.

Decorating bikes for the bike parade in Ogden.

Waiting for the fireworks to start...

Annual waterfight at grandma's...

July 24th Speedy Spaniard 10k and 1 mile run...

Trips to Bear Lake. Scooter loved the water and he especially loved chasing the seagulls!

Ryan turned 12 this year and we had a surprise party for him. We actually pulled it off! After the surprise and pizza, they had a giant water fight in the back yard.

Em decorating Ryan's room while he's sleeping...

S'mores at grandma's...

Logan River with Bailey...

Hannah Montana performed for us...

Seven Peaks and Build-a-Bear with cousins...

Whew. It's a good thing school starts in a couple of days, I'm out of energy and money!

Adorable...

2008-07-28T00:03:00.000-07:00

This is my nephew, Aiden. I took his pictures last week and he is the cutest little guy ever. He has the most amazing eyes and the cutest personality. He's adorable!