The Jeppsen Family

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2011-04-10T18:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is that time again. Time to put up the tree and hang the stockings and of course shovel, shovel, shovel.

Road Trip

2011-04-10T18:18:00.000-07:00

What's a road trip without cheesy Doritos.

*************BEFORE****************

**************AFTER*****************

Notre Dame vs. U of U

2011-04-10T17:57:00.000-07:00

OK, so it is FINALLY my turn to get to go to a game, and it just happens we were playing U of U....the place where Matt and I both got our BA degrees. ND was supposed to get killed against the Utes, but it turned out to be exactly the opposite. ND totally crushed the Utes: 28-3. Even though it was raining ALMOST the entire time and we were sopping wet, it was still fun to feel the energy of the fans...especially since the Irish were winning.

The Irish color gaurd.

The Leprachaun during the pre-game parade.

The bag pipe concert before the game.

Oh yeah...this was what it looked like at the end of the game....a massive rush onto the field for some celebration!

Happy Birthday to You

2011-04-10T15:06:00.000-07:00

This year was a special year for Brandon. He turned 8, which means a couple of things: 1) most importantly he gets to be baptized and 2) he gets a friend party! (we only do them when they turn 8, 12, and 16). So because his real birthday fell on a weekday, we had a little family celebration with donuts and presents, then had his big birthday bash on the weekend. There is not a lot of fun things to do for your birthday in the winter around here, but he chose have a swimming party at a local hotel. He invited friends from school and church, plus he got an extra special treat because his good friends from Crystal Lake got to come and stay the weekend. It looked like the kids had a great time in the pool and later we played a Phineas and Ferb game and of course opened presents and ate pizza and ice cream cake. As Phineas and Ferb would say, "it was the best day ever!" Happy Birthday, Brando! We Love YOU!!!!!!

American Girl Birthday

2011-04-10T13:45:00.000-07:00

This year Caitlyn decided that all she wanted was an American Girl doll for her birthday so we decided to make a fun night of it. We drove to Chicago and went to the American Girl Doll store downtown. There she took her time and finally decided on the doll Julie. She is the doll that is suppose to be from the 1970's. The boys were very glad when we were able to leave and go get ice cream at the Ghirardelli shop just across the street. We had a great time...Happy Birthday Cait! We Love YOU!!!!!!

Brandon didn't want his picture taken...he didn't want any proof that he was in a "GIRL" store. In fact he would call shopping there as complete torture! (so dramatic!)

As you can see Parker had no problem and proudly carries the infamous red bag. :)

Because we had to go to the American Girl store on a different day than her birthday, we still had a little celebration with her favorite donuts on the real day.

These are a couple of presents she got from her grandparents and other family.

Firehouse

2011-04-10T13:39:00.001-07:00

This year Parker and I took a field trip to the local fire station. We got to see where the firemen eat and sleep when they are on call, and most importantly we got to see a fire truck up close. The kids weren't too sure about the fireman in his big, scary mask, but it was good for them to get to see what a fireman looks like in case there ever is a real fire.

Good-bye Old Friend

2011-02-11T18:37:00.000-08:00

So, after almost 12 years of faithful service (we got this as a wedding gift), I finally had to break down and buy a new one. I could handle the melted knob and scratched lid, they were kinda like battle scars, but when the lid's handle completely popped off, leaving a whole in the top, I knew it was time to retire it. Actually, it really is weird to think that we have been married for so long that everything we got for our wedding is starting to give out, including our griddle, waffle iron, and toaster. Is this a sign we are getting old?

Happy Halloween

2011-02-06T19:28:00.000-08:00

Halloween was tricky this year because it fell on a Sunday. But have no fear, a good friend of ours found a neighborhood that was doing trick-or-treating on Saturday, so we dressed up and met some friends and got more than enough candy to last for forever.

Here we have a greek goddess, a dead hippie, and the prince of persia (chosen only for his awesome weaponry).

And of course the dual personality super hero, Batman Robin. Who needs a sidekick when you have yourself right? :)

Last Hurrah!

2011-02-06T19:11:00.000-08:00

Here we are at our last ND family tailgate! It was a perfect day and a perfect way to end this season.

Happy Harvest

2011-02-06T18:56:00.000-08:00

Can I just say that Parkers field trip to the pumpkin patch was not just cold, it was F-R-E-E-Z-I-N-G! It had been raining all week and we had a major drop in temperatures, but luckily the rain stopped just for that morning. And since the cold weather snuck up on us quite quickly I didn't have time to pull out our heavy winter coats. But with that said, Parker loved every minute of the hayride, picking out the perfect pumpkin, playing on the playground, visiting the petting farm (eew!), and the yummy treats in the greenhouse.

Pretty Ballerina

2011-02-06T18:37:00.000-08:00

Observation day came once again at Emma and Cait's ballet studio. Cait was sick on this day, so we just got to see Emma. I love to get to see her as a little ballerina, maybe it brings back memories from my childhood and a little wishful thinking. BUT, Emma doesn't share the love. We had a talk about it the other day and she told me that she ballet was ok, it just wasn't her favorite (trying to let me down easy) and it was kind of like being in school, lots of concentrating. SO, if she had her choice she would rather do horseback riding (that darn love of animals). If it has to be horses I guess it is a good thing we are moving to the south.

My Little Zombies

2011-02-06T18:18:00.000-08:00

Since we couldn't go to Grandma's annual Halloween party, she sent a party in a box to us. These crazy glasses were some of our favorites. Thanks Grandma!

Back to Basics

2011-01-24T15:26:00.000-08:00

This year we had beautiful fall weather. One Sunday afternoon we decided to get out and enjoy some of it before the inevitable gloominess of winter hit. We went to a beautiful little park with perfect little "hiking" (hiking in quotes because no mountains were involved) trails (not too long) through a forest preserve. It was a great way to spend an hour on the sabbath, because it truly is amazing how beautifully our world was created.

ND vs. Pittsburgh

2011-01-16T19:59:00.000-08:00

FINALLY it was Parker's turn to get to go to the game. Every time the other kids got to go he would say, "but mom, I want to go in there (pointing at the stadium)." So he was very excited that it was his turn. And he lasted about 20 minutes until he was ready to go. BUT it is partly my fault because that happened to be a busy Saturday for us, so I didn't get his nap in and believe, he needs his beauty rest. So, he wasn't being bad, he just told Matt he was tired and ready to go home. I think he fell asleep before the car even left the parking lot. But the good news is he has nocomprehension of time, so he thinks it was the greatest game ever and has no ideahe was only there 20 minutes.

Fall Ball

2011-01-16T19:43:00.000-08:00

Here is Brandon's last game of the season. He had great coaches this year and his team was undefeated (unofficially, they don't really start keeping score till next year, but all the boys know who wins or loses). I think his favorite position is short stop and he has been getting some pretty good hits. So far baseball is his favorite, but he is eagerly awaiting the age when he gets to play football (you have to be 8 around here). Personally, I hope he sticks with baseball....a little bit easier on the nerves.

Fall Ball

2011-01-16T19:33:00.000-08:00

Homework

2011-01-16T18:54:00.000-08:00

After the kids got back into the swing of things like school and homework, Parker would really miss them during the day. So sometimes he does his "homework" when they are at school so he can be just like them. He really believes he is doing his homework and is concentrating soo hard.

Crunchy, Crunchy Apples

2011-01-16T16:17:00.000-08:00

So, Parker started preschool this year and LOVES it. He has great teachers, Mrs. O and Mrs. Romey, and has made a cute little friend John. He comes home everyday and tells me what he and his friend John played that day. He also is a little tattle tale and will tell me what kids were not using their listening ears or if they took a toy away from another kid. This is his first field trip and we went to an apple orchard nearby in Michigan. We got to pick lots of yummy apples, have a little picnic in the orchard and try out a tractor. After the field-trip was over, Parker and I stayed behind and picked some green tomatoes so I could make some fried green tomatoes. My grandpa Blaine made them for us over the summer and I had had a craving ever since. Needless to say, mine didn't turn out quite like his. Maybe next year I'll have to practice with him, cuz they seriously were delish!

ND vs. Stanford

2011-01-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

Emma's turn! She picked to go to the Stanford game, and again, unfortunately we lost (I know it's not looking like a promising season). She and Matt went tailgating without us because the weather was pretty crummy, it had been raining off an on the entire day and made everything all wet. They made it to the trumpet concert in the dome which was pretty cool and she thought the game was great too, even though it was wet and pretty cold. She learned the cheers and also got to do touchdown push-ups.

ND Baseball Practice

2011-01-16T15:42:00.000-08:00

Brandon's fall ball coach set up a practice on the ND baseball field. It was pretty neat to practice on a "real" field, although it was just a "little" bit bigger than the little league diamond so he slept good that night. :)

ND vs. Michigan

2011-01-16T14:23:00.000-08:00

Next was Caitlyn's turn. Unfortunately, we lost, but it was a close game and Cait said she had fun. Although, I think she might have been more interested in the cheerleaders than in the game. :) She was a little more shy doing the cheers and the push-ups were not her thing, but the usher by our section made sure she had a great time. He let her come down to the rail to get a better look and called the leprechaun over for a photo op. At the bottom you can see her standing in front of the library, or more commonly know as "touchdown Jesus." You used to be able to see the mosaic from the football stadium at the end of one of the goal posts, hence the nickname, but since they added the upper bowl on to the stadium you can't really see it anymore.

ND vs. Purdue

2011-01-16T14:07:00.000-08:00

Brandon got to go to the first game of the season. We all went and tailgated, but we only have 2 tickets, so we have to take turns going into the game. Plus it is fun to have a little one on one time with Dad. I asked Brandon what I should write and he said just write that ND CRUSHED them! This year we have great seats, and even though the student section can get a little rowdy sometimes, he definitely had a great time. He was learning and doing all the cheers and per tradition, got to be a push-up guy. Each time ND scores a touchdown someone from the crowd gets lifted over everyones heads and gets pushed up and down (push-ups) for each point that is on the score board. We are definitely all looking forward to our turn!

Soooo Last Minute

2011-01-11T16:34:00.000-08:00

We have been saying for forever that we wanted to take the kids camping because there are some great spots to go that are not too far from our house. However, we found ourselves in September and we still hadn't gone yet. So, one Friday afternoon when the kids got home from school I decided that we were going to go for just a little over-nighter. Matt didn't get done with his classes until 5, so the kids and I ran around getting our camping supplies ready and packing the van so we could leave when Matt got home. We were pretty much ready and hopped in the car and were on our way. We headed over the the Indiana Dunes and pulled into our spot just in time to set up our tent and start a fire before it got dark. We roasted hot dogs and marshmallows, played games in our tent, and snuggled down for a chilly night. We woke the next day to a yummy donut and juice breakfast and headed over to the dunes state park which is on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is kinda funny because we have lived in the Chicago area 2 times and never made it to the beaches of Lake Michigan, but here we finally get to see it up close in Indiana. The water was F-R-E-E-Z-I-N-G cold, so it was totally ok that we only had a little over an hour to swim. Actually, I am pretty sure I was the only one that got in farther than my knees, everyone else was being party poopers (Matt). Anyways, the kids LOVED every minute of it and as you can see were tuckered out, which made for a nice quiet ride home. :)

First things First

2011-01-10T20:15:00.000-08:00

Yes the time has come for another year of school. I think the kids were all excited to start a new year, well I guess as excited as they can be going back to school. Actually, Caitlyn was very much looking forward to being able to stay all day and being able to eat lunch at school. They all have great teachers and we are looking forward to a great year. While I am looking forward to getting back in a routine, I am definitely not looking forward to the early hours.

PS...take a look at Parker's bag. Yep I made it! Just a little proud.

Endure

2011-01-10T13:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, so since February of 2010 I have been potty training Parker. And pretty much it is already the WORST part of motherhood, but Parker is so completely stubborn it was 10 times worse. Basically I couldn't really say he was completely potty trained until the end of the summer, not because he couldn't get the concept, he just chose not to. Let me give you a scenario to explain the situation. We are at my moms house and he is wanting more juice. I tell him to go in and go potty first and then I will get his juice. He then gets upset and starts throwing a temper tantrum and I tell him he can't have any juice until he goes potty. So what does he do? Yep, sits down on my mom's kitchen floor and goes potty all over the floor. Exactly. So needless to say, now that Ireally don't need a diaper bag I am pretty sure I have earned this. Don't you think? :)

Summer, Summer, Summer (part 2)

2011-01-07T18:17:00.001-08:00

The summer ended with Parker's 3rd birthday. We had a little family celebration, which Parker thought was great. I can't believe how fast time seems to be going by...it truly is bitter sweet. I miss my cute little, chubby babe that I could burrito wrap and snuggle, but it is so fun to hear him talk and see his little personality (most of the time :) and he is so excited about preschool. So, on we go to another fun and exciting phase of life.

One last hurrah before real life starts and we all head home and start school and schedules. It always goes by way too fast. Thanks mom and dad for a great summer!

Oh yeah, we did a little bit of this (work), this summer too. :)

****The Big Day****
Kurtis and Haylie

August 12, 2010

I think the girls and I might have snuck away to do a little shopping.

Lake Powell. Between all the weddings and parties we still had time to squeeze in a week at Lake Powell. For the first time in a long time we had some scary weather. It rained quite a lot and it was pretty cold, cold enough to be grateful for the sweatshirt you always pack but never end up needing. One day we were there the winds started picking up and there were white caps on the waves out in the bay. Some day campers next to us had to come take shelter because of the high winds blowing sand every where. But we had some good tie downs and our boat held strong. I am really proud of all the kids. They all tried knee boarding, water skiing, tubing and cliff jumping at least once. Brandon is quite the little daredevil...he got up on the knee board and started doing 360's without anyone telling him and he was jumping off the high cliffs with uncle Jerry and uncle Jordan. Emma got up on both skii's and kneeboarding and after a lot of talking, ok let's be honest, BRIBING, Caitlyn gave it a good try. She is now enjoying those Calico Critters she got...thanks Aunt Alli. We played lots of games, played in the sand, and even got to ride on some Jet skiis (thanks Paxton and Kara). All and all it was a great trip, but we missed those who weren't there this year! Thanks grandpa for all your hardwork!

Haylie's bridal shower. As always, good food, good people, good fun.

This is Grandpa's summer pride and joy. Yes, he grew it all by himself.

T-R-O-U-B-L-E...BUT SUCH GOOD FRIENDS!

The climb. So we decided to try something different this year and took the kids to hike Mt. Timpanogas. Grandpa came with us and THANKFULLY grandma stayed home with Parker---If you can't tell from the picture, I made it (barely :) and can't picture having to carry Parks up the mountain, since most nights he can't even make it up the stairs to bed without me carrying him (ok so he might be SLIGHTLY spoiled). But, it was a great time and the kids were real troopers, Brandon and Davis practically ran the whole way up the mountain. The cave at the end was really great and it happened that some people from our part of Indiana were out visiting Utah and taking the tour at the same time...man it's a small world.

You've heard shop til you drop? Well this summer it was PLAY til you drop. This would often be the case. Parker just konk out totally exhausted in the middle of playing.

Welcome to the Wild West. Grandma (and grandpa) like to throw a little party for the kids. This year it was the wild west. They made some tasty grub, got to dress up like a cowboy/cowgirl, played some games (including a sunflower seed spittin contest), panned for gold, traded in their gold pieces at the trading post, and even learned a little line dancing. The kids always have so much fun, thanks grandma and grandpa!

My Grandma and Grandpa were the Grand Marshals of the Pioneer Day festivities, so we got to get up Xtra EARLY (notice Tyler sleeping) to see them drive by in the carriage in the parade. Hey we even got to see a group of missionaries parade by! Amazingly it was still blazing hot even though it was so early and I think more cotton candy ended up ON parker rather than IN him.

Pioneer Days Rodeo...I think our favorite parts were the bull riding, mutin bustin, the rodeo queen contestants, barrel racing, and the motor cross demo at the end. Oh, and of course all the yummy treats, gotta love the ginormous snow cones.

Happy Birthday, Grandma Nanny!
What better way to celebrate 93 great years than a little pizza pool party. We love you Grandma!

****The BIG day*****
Amy and Tyler
July 16, 2010

Summer, Summer, Summer (part 1)

2011-01-02T17:43:00.000-08:00

I debated the best way to blog our summer in Utah. And after feeling very overwhelmed because of the HUNDREDS of pictures taken, I think the best way is this...One long post in chronological order with just a couple of my favorite pics from each event. I know it may be boring to some, but I am thinking about posterity.

The long awaited day came and we went to see Toy Story 3. Of course the kids LOVED it and of course their favorite line and most often quoted, "Hey I thought I told you kids to stay out of my butt," by Mr. Potato Head.

Oh, he wishes...

Another favorite thing: the coaster cars. The kids spent hours of time outside riding around in circles. And the girls got a special treat...making jewelry with Aunt Gyla...fabulous!

My birthday...oh yeah, when you get this old it's just another day! :)

July 4th equals parades, "fishing," and swimming. We got to spend it with both Matt's family and mine, but unfortunately, not Matt...still in Tennessee. At the end of the day we got to see a couple of different fireworks displays from grandma's house. Although, I think most everybody fell asleep before they were over.

This is one of their favorite pastimes, hanging out with Aunt Amy.

Night swimming...yep...just in case we didn't get enough swimming in during the day we always had night swimming. Actually, some times we did both...swimming ALL day and NIGHT! As you can see, they usually lasted in their swimsuits WAAAY longer than me.

Happy Father's Day! The kids and I got to celebrate Father's Day with grandpa. We cooked him a yummy breakfast and after chruch we went out to Grandpa Blaines for a visit which happened to include some scrumptious marshmallow roasting.

Unfortunately, Matt was in TN working for the summer so we didn't get to celebrate with him in person. Even though we missed him over the summer and he "says" he missed us ;) he really liked Nashville. Among other things, he made some fun friends that introduced him to some authentic Indian food, spent time doing some service projects, and even got to check out some local honky tonks.

Just keep swimming...Oh yes, we went swimming in Grandma and Grandpa's pool ALMOST every day.

Amy's bridal shower.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-01-02T17:26:00.000-08:00

Mother's Day was great this year with breakfast in bed, gifts from Matt and the kids, teaching a lesson AND giving a talk in church (I know, Happy Mother's Day to me). It was a great day and I am very blessed to be a mother. Oh, and I got this funny in my email in honor of the occasion that I thought would be fun to share.

THE NEXT SURVIVOR SERIES
Six married men
will be dropped on an island

with one car

and 3 kids each

for six weeks.

Each kid will play two sports
and take either music or dance classes.

There is no fast food.

Each man must

take care of his 3 kids;
keep his assigned house clean,
correct all homework,
complete science projects,
cook,
do laundry,
and pay a list of 'pretend' bills
with not enough money.

In addition,

each man
will have to budget enough money
for groceries each week.

Each man
must remember the birthdays
of all their friends and relatives,
and send cards out on time--no emailing.

Each man must also take each child
to a doctor's appointment,
a dentist appointment
and a haircut appointment.

He must make one unscheduled and
inconvenient visit per child to the Emergency Room.

He must also make cookies or cupcakes
for a school function.

Each man will be responsible for
decorating his own assigned house,
planting flowers outside, and keeping it
presentable at all times.

The men will only have access to television

when the kids are asleep and all chores are done.

The men must shave their legs,

wear makeup daily,

adorn themselves with jewelry,

wear uncomfortable yet stylish shoes,

keep fingernails polished,

and eyebrows groomed

During one of the six weeks,

the men will have to endure severe
abdominal cramps, backaches, headaches,
have extreme, unexplained mood swings
but never once complain or slow down
from other duties.

They must attend weekly school meetings

and church,
and find time at least once to spend
the afternoon at the park or a similar
setting.

They will need to read a book to the kids each night

and in the morning,

feed them,

dress them,
brush their teeth and
comb their hair
by 7:30 am.

A test will be given

at the end of the six weeks,

and each father will be required to know

all of the following information:
each child's
birthday,
height, weight,
shoe size, clothes size,
doctor's name,
the child's weight at birth,
length, time of birth,
and length of labor,
each child's favorite color,
middle name,
favorite snack,
favorite song,
favorite drink,
favorite toy,
biggest fear,
and what they want to be when they grow up.

The kids vote them off the island based on performance.

The last man wins only if...
he still
has enough energy
to be intimate with his spouse
at a moment's notice.

If the last man does win,
he can play the game over and over and over
again for the next 18-25 years,
eventually earning the right
to be called Mother!

Welcome Baby Crew

2010-12-22T13:06:00.000-08:00

The newest addition to our extended family, our new nephew/cousin...Crew William Taylor. So sweet!

The Blue and Gold

2010-12-22T12:46:00.000-08:00

Our first ND Tailgate experience...the Blue and Gold game. The tailgating was fun and the game was good too, oh all except for the cold and rain.

Spring Break

2010-12-22T12:28:00.000-08:00

We stayed and played in Iowa over spring break. We made a trip to the park and played with our bubble wands from Easter.
We were there about 30 minutes before it started pouring buckets of rain, by the time we gathered everything and loaded into the car we were sopping wet! Also, no trip is complete without a stop at the Children's museum. This time there was a cool aviation exhibit which the kids had fun exploring and testing their skills as a pilot.

Gotta Love the Midwest

2010-12-22T12:21:00.000-08:00

Matt came home from our weekend in Iowa while we stayed back for our spring break. This is what greeted him when he arrived.
At first we thought that some of the teenage kids were playing a trick on us, but when Matt inquired of the neighbors they said that there had been some pretty strong winds that weekend that could have easily flipped our tramp over. Luckily, it looks like the wind just lifted it up and set it down in the same spot, only upside down, instead of crashing into someones house and causing some real damage. It kinda looks like it won't ever be the same, huh?

Happy Happy Birthday

2010-12-22T12:16:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Matt's birthday while visiting Iowa and he had some yummy (at least he thinks so) crab legs, courtesy of Aunt Jen's recent trip to Alaska.

Easter

2010-12-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

We got to spend Easter with Grandma and Grandpa and Aunt Jamie in Iowa. We did all the usual festivities like coloring easter eggs, hunting for them in the morning, finding baskets, and eating a yummy dinner. This year was a special treat and we got to listen to General Conference on Easter Sunday and were able to remember the real reason we celebrate...the resurrection of our Savior. I love it when Easter falls on Conference because it really becomes a time of reflection of all we are blessed with and a time to commit to be better in the coming months.

Superhero

2010-12-22T11:30:00.000-08:00

Parker loves getting dressed up, and isn't afraid to mix superhero legends. Here he is at BatKnight.

Mr. Lego

2010-12-22T11:27:00.000-08:00

While the girls went to American Girl the boys made a trip to the Lego store. They make it look so easy, but lets face it...not so much.

The Bean

2010-12-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

It was FREEZING cold, but this was kinda cool.

Here's the Deal

2010-12-22T06:24:00.001-08:00

OK, so I had all these big plans to update over the summer so when we got back for the fall and winter festivities I would be able to just post as we go. Well, that would have been a great plan, except for my computer crashed....completely losing the hard drive...including all my pictures! AARGGH, to say the least. We were able to recover most of them (after a lot of time and money), but needless to say I was a little disenchanted with my computer, we had a love hate relationship for a while. But it is true what they say, time heals all wounds, and I am back and ready to start updating, so even though these posts won't be of current life events, they happend, and I just can't bear to skip them and not record them. And two HUGE lessons learned from this little experience 1. Don't believe the commercials...macs really aren't superior to PC's and 2. BACK-UP BACK-UP BACK-UP, so much easier and costly to back up your stuff on an external hard drive than to try recover everything after it is gone.

Time For A Little Big City

2010-06-13T19:19:00.000-07:00

We couldn't resist heading into Chicago for a couple of days. We started out with a birthday dinner for Allison and then got a birthday treat at the Ghiradeli Store...scrumptious ice cream. We also spent time at Navy Pier, the Childrens Museum, the bean statue, the American Girl doll Store, and of course a little shopping.

Yeah Visitors!

2010-06-13T18:39:00.000-07:00

We got a special treat and got to have an early spring break and visit with my sisters and their kids, and my mom. Since Haylie just got home from her mission, we all wanted to spend time with her, so we decided to meet here in "the middle." Mostly we just hung out and chatted and the kiddos played and played and played. I am sure the neighbors thought we were crazy because even though it was spring, we were having a little cold spell and it was pretty cold, but the kids loved playing outside. We also got to have FHE together, we did a little bowling, a little mini golfing and a couple of rides on the go karts. It was so fun to visit and catch up and hear about Haylie's mission experiences.

This is one of my favorites! What good friends! (most of the time) :)

Crazy

2010-06-13T18:08:00.000-07:00

Parker's hair does some pretty crazy things when he is out jumpin on the tramp.

Observation Day

2010-06-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

At the girls' dance studio they don't have "recitals," so at the end of the year the parents get to go into their class for an observation day. It is fun to get to see them so up close and see how much they have learned in such a short amount of time.

Yeah, the boys weren't too thrilled about observation day.

Gotta Get Away

2010-06-03T06:42:00.000-07:00

During Matt's 1 week spring break, I got to take a little break of my own. I spent a couple of days in this quaint little Amish town that is pretty close by. And I know that some of you might be asking what in the world did I do by myself for two days in a very small town? The beauty of it is that I didn't HAVE to do anything, but I got to do a lot of uninterrupted blogging, window shopping, lesson planning and reflecting. I don't know, maybe I should feel guilty for needing a little time away and maybe only mom's will understand; but it was a refreshing reprieve from the mundane daily tasks that we mom's are faced with and the never ending needs of our sweet little ones. In all honesty I think I came back a better mom...a little more patient, a little more grateful. So maybe in the end I shouldn't feel guilty for needing a littler recharge--a chance to fill my bucket, every once in a while. In the end I think it truly makes giving (what mom's do best) easier and helps keep life in perspective.

Parking for the Amish.

These buggy's were everywhere and shared the road with all the cars. Some even were decked out with headlights.

This was my "motel." Yes, you should be scared. :)

Welcome Home, Haylie!

2010-06-02T07:51:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how fast 18 months go by. It is already time for my sister Haylie to come home from serving in the New York, Rochester mission. My parents went to pick her up and spend some time in the area and getting to meet some of the people she served, and lucky for us, my dad was able to book a flight back home that had a 6 hour lay-over in Chicago. So we drove up to the airport and were able to get to spend a little time with her before she headed back to Utah. It was so neat to be able to see her and how much she has grown. We are so glad you served well and made it home safe and sound. We Love You Hay!

They came down a completely different escalator, so they saw us before we saw them.

Parker was just a baby when Haylie left, so a couple of weeks before she came home I put her picture up on the kitchen cupboard so he would know who she was and wouldn't be shy around her. I was so happy it worked, this was so sweet.

The kids were so proud of their sign, they all helped make it, even Parker added his artistic touch/scribbles.

Sweet Sundays

2010-05-16T19:34:00.001-07:00

One of the reasons I love Sundays is this: it is one day a week that for the most part our kids get along (for the most part). One Sunday we noticed it was pretty quiet and went upstairs to investigate. We found all the kids playing with with those color changing cars in the bath tub with bubbles, and even though they weren't IN the tub, they were all drenched like they were.

Boys Will Be Boys

2010-05-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

These pictures are just so typical of my little guys.

Wrestling, what they LOVE to do.

Some of Parker's favorite things.

Happy Heart Day

2010-05-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

This year we got a special treat and Grandma and Grandpa Jeppsen got to visit us over Valentine's Day. They guys let us girls go and get pedicures and it was Caitlyn and Emma's first time. Other than being extremely tickelish they loved it, especially since they got to pick out and take home their own bottle of nail polish. Valentine's Day happened to fall on a Sunday this year, but we were still able to celebrate and have our traditional heart shaped pizza dinner by candlelight (even though it was during the middle of the afternoon) and chocolate fountain. Happy Valentine's Day!

PS...Sorry for the bad quality of pictures, I am not sure what was wrong with my camera, or probably the lady taken the pictures. :)

The Luck of the Irish

2010-05-16T17:49:00.000-07:00

The family life center had a little meet and greet for the kids. They got to meet the ND cheerleaders and the official Leprachaun mascot.

Boys and Baseball

2010-05-16T17:36:00.000-07:00

Brandon wanted to dress Parker up in his old baseball uniform, and Parker was just loving it. I am sure we will have many more pictures like this in the not so distant future. Parker is counting down the years until he can play baseball, or soccer, or football--just like his big brother Brandon.

Murphy the Monkey

2010-05-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

Caitlyn's kindergarten class has a special friend Murphy the Monkey that gets to go home one weekend with each of the kids. They get to READ to him and basically he gets to go anywhere and do anything that they do that weekend. The kicker is that the kids get to scrapbook a page about all their fun activities, so we had to make sure Murphy had a great time. The activities Caitlyn wanted to do that weekend included baking her favorite cookies, snickerdoodles, going swimming at the ND rec center, a play date at our friend's house, reading, and of course a trip to primary.

Everyone Needs One of These

2010-05-10T08:57:00.000-07:00

We had to ship some of our Christmas presents home because we couldn't fit everything in our suitcases and when the box finally arrived the kids were very happy to see their new treasures. BUT, they were equally ecstatic to get to play in the big box that those treasures came in and it kept them entertained not just for hours, but for days. Love the box.

New Years Day

2010-05-02T20:43:00.000-07:00

2010 started out with yummy colored pancakes and then finished up with a little bowling.

New Year's Eve

2010-05-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

New Year's Eve was great, lots of fun games and of course, lots of good food. Something extra fun the kids got to do was to make a time capsule. Each one had a picture of them and a paper they filled out with lots of questions about what is going on in the world and what their favorite things are.

Sledding Three Times

2010-05-02T19:31:00.000-07:00

On New Year's Eve day we went sledding, but this time we did it Plain City style. We went out to my Grandma and Grandpa's house and my Uncle Jerry's house and got to go sledding in their field. We tie sleds up to a four wheeler and it pulls us through the snow, around the field. It really is so much fun and it brings back memories because that is what we used to do when I was a kid. And just like old times, Grandpa had a big bonfire going for us and Grandma had some delicious soup and hot chocolate to warm us up from the inside out. It was such a fun day, and great memories for my kids, thanks Grandma and Grandpa and Uncle Jerry and Aunt Kit, for letting us come! We love you!

Sledding Twice

2010-05-02T18:57:00.000-07:00

The day we planned to go visit the Ashton's, Parker started running a fever, so Matt took the other kids down to their house so they could hang out for the day. They had so much fun playing with Josh and Alli, and they had a special treat, they finally got to meet their new puppy, Ewok. Plus, they got to go sledding again, which is always a crowd pleaser.

The Lights on Temple Square

2010-05-02T18:19:00.000-07:00

Even though it was FREEZING cold, we took some time to go visit and see the lights on temple square. They were amazing as usual and the kids loved them. And of course we finished the night off with some Hires Big H, root beer. They make the best root beer freezes, Y-U-M!

Back to Bethlehem

2010-04-27T15:35:00.000-07:00

This year my mom really wanted to put on a back to Bethlehem night so the kids could remember the real reason for Christmas. It was wonderful, and everyone who came got all dressed up, we paid taxes (food donated to the food pantry), ate some yummy food, and then the kids put on a little program that told the story of the first Christmas. It was so wonderful---thanks Grandma and Grandpa (Grandma is always the brains behind the operation, but Grandpa is always such a great help for the execution). We love you!

PS...Matt helped Paigely, Madi, Emma, and Caitlyn practice and perform "Silent Night" with the bells. It sounded great!

Round Two (or Three)

2010-04-27T05:12:00.000-07:00

After all the craziness of Christmas morning got over, the kids got to open their presents from Grandma and Grandpa. They all loved everything they got, but Caitlyn I have to say had the BEST reaction. I wish I could have got it on a digital video, but I was taking digital still pictures and Matt had our normal video camera. Anyways, so for Christmas Santa had brought her an IPOD, so Grandma and Grandpa bought her a purple Hannah Montana docking station with a microphone. As Caitlyn tears back one side of the paper and can see what it is this is exactly what she says, in a very dramatic voice, "OH, no, Oh no, You didn't.." then she continues to tear open the rest of the package. It was like she couldn't believe they got her that, even though it wasn't something she was even asking for. Except for the funny thing was is that I am not sure she even knew it was an IPOD docking station until we told her. I don't know, it doesn't sound funny on paper, but believe me it was hilarious!

We're Here Santa

2010-04-26T04:35:00.000-07:00

This year, just because of the way plane tickets worked out and because the move to Indiana was harder on my kids than expected, we flew to Utah on Christmas Eve to spend the rest of the holidays with my family. The kids were very concerned that Santa wouldn't know where we were, but we had a special friend, our elf David, who told Santa where we would be on Christmas Eve. Grandma and Grandpa had everything set up for us when we got in and after a very excited reunion with cousins it was off to bed. In the morning, the kids were very relieved to wake up to find presents under the tree. And, after the rush of opening presents, one of the best parts of Christmas day is having a jammie day and being able to spend to whole day playing!

Round One

2010-04-26T04:10:00.000-07:00

The kids got to open their presents from Grandma and Grandpa and Aunt Jamie on Christmas Eve. It is funny how you can tell each child's different personality just by the presents they got. For example: Emma got a set of good books, Brandon got the biggest Nerf gun I have ever seen, Caitlyn got a make-up artist kit, and Parker got Uno Moo (which is very cute, and I highly recommend it for your little ones).

Two of my favorite favorite parts about Christmas are: 1) Getting my kids matching PJ's to wear for Christmas morning, which they get to open up on Christmas Eve, which is amazing they still get excited for because it is the same thing every year. 2) Going to the dollar store and letting the kids pick out presents for each other and mom and dad. This year, since we were in Iowa, they got to pick out stuff or Grandma and Grandpa Jeppsen and Aunt Jamie too. And let me just say you can find some pretty "special" items in the dollar store. :)

The Nativity

2010-04-26T04:01:00.000-07:00

It is definitely a family tradition to act out the night of our Savior's birth. Grandma Jeppsen made us some awesome costumes and just in case you couldn't tell, here is a list of our cast (in no particular order):
Mary: Caitlyn got the special role this year
Joseph: Dad
Angel: Emma
Wise men: Brandon and Parker
Shephards: Grandma and mom
Narrator: Grandpa

Sledding Once

2010-04-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

The weather cooperated and we actually got to go sledding a little bit over winter break. I don't know if you can see it, but there was a HUGE bump down the hill. The kids went off it at full speed and caught some pretty good air. They talked me into giving it a try and I was really afraid for my life! I don't know what has happened to me, but in my old age I have gotten to be such a fraidy cat. "In my younger days" (now that makes me sound REALLY old) I would have done it without giving it a second thought. I think it must have something to do with having kids, the mom instinct is a little more cautious.

Ok, so I didn't get quite as much air as the kids, but it was still scary.

Gingerbread Surprises

2010-04-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

While we were decorating gingerbread houses at Grandma and Grandpa Jeppsen's house, Grandma arranged for a special visit from Santa. The older kids thought it was pretty neat being able to see Santa, but Parker not so much. Thanks Grandma!

The Inspiration

2010-04-06T13:09:00.000-07:00

This year at the girl's and I traditional Nutcracker outing they became inspired future ballerinas. They loved the performance we saw because it was from a local ballet school (similar to Clytie Adams Ballet school in Utah), which meant that Clara was played by a young girl, instead of a prima ballerina pretending to be a young girl (like we usually see in the Joffery Ballet Company). I don't think they ever thought that a young girl could actually be in such an important ballet. So after it was done, they really wanted to sign up for lessons so they could be in the performance next year. So, hopefully next year instead of posting about watching the Nutcracker, I'll be posting about the girls performing it! :)

The Best Thanksgiving Ever!

2010-04-06T12:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know you are all wondering what made this Thanksgiving the best one ever??? One word...CATERING! Yes, since we just moved into our new house and spent the whole last week getting settled, I was just not feeling in the mood to create the traditional homemade spread. So, there is this great restaurant near us that you could order your dinner from, and it was great! My kids thought I had lost my marbles because not only did I not "cook" Thanksgiving dinner, we had it the day before as well. I was leaving to go on my annual Thanksgiving shopping trip with my mom, sisters, aunts, cousins, and grandma Thanksgiving evening so there wasn't time that day. I have to admit it did take some of the festiveness away from the celebration---it really didn't feel like Thanksgiving dinner, but I think it mostly had to do with the fact that we had no family around, and let's face it, family is really what makes Thanksgiving so special.

While I was on my trip and Matt was "watching" the kids (which you can't really say watching when they are his own kids, right? I should say staying with the kids), they created their own little band and gave me a private concert. Dad's get to have all the fun...this is the perfect example of what they did all weekend, which means everything else was pretty much neglected (ie laundry, dishes, cleaning), which all are not that important in the grand scheme of things, but somebody has to do them right? Anyways, hope you enjoy!

Oh yeah, just a little note about my black Friday experience this year. It was a total let down. Toy's R Us was a complete disaster! They were handing out tickets for the door busters, but then when you went to redeem your ticket they had sold your item to someone else, who obviously did not have a ticket. And, they weren't letting anyone in and people were starting to get into fights and cops were called. Then once you finally did get in, the deals weren't even that great. What a waste of time! Hopefully next year will be better, or we will just have to get some pampering done instead of shopping!

The Birthday Boy

2010-04-04T21:20:00.000-07:00

So basically I should just copy and paste everything I just posted about Cait's birthday to Brandon's. :) But, since I have always felt so guilty about having their birthdays only one day apart, I have tried so hard to make sure they each get their own special day and celebration. So, it is only fitting they should get their own special blog post, right? Brandon thinks it is so cool to have his birthday on Veteran's Day. We have tried to teach him what that day is all about, and I think he understands. He also wanted so bad to have a friend birthday party this year because we are moving and next year when he turns eight we will be in a new place. I felt so bad and almost gave in, but in the end we decided to stick to our 4, 8, 12, 16 rule (those are the ages the kids get a friend party). He was a good sport and was just happy to get to see his dad on the weekend. He has really missed him because they are such good buds right now. Besides, mom just doesn't wrestle as good as dad, right? Anyways, Happy Birthday Brandon! We love You!

The Birthday Girl

2010-04-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is that time of year again. The time when Caitlyn and Brandon have the same conversation about who is older than who. I have to admit it's got to be confusing for a kid because technically Caitlyn's birthday is a day before Brandon's, but Brandon is older cuz he was born the year before, but that totally doesn't make sense to little kids. We end up just settling the matter by saying that they are the same age for one day (Caitlyn's birthday), and then Brandon turns a year older the next day (his birthday). This year we did something that I have never done before. We had two birthday celebrations, which for anyone who knows me, knows that it is so not like me. One celebration on their birthday is all I can handle. But this year we celebrated once on the weekend so dad could be there (he went to school in Indiana during the week and drove home to be with us every weekend) and once on her real birthday. Which, it turns out, Grandma and Grandpa Jensen were able to celebrate with us because they flew in to help us pack up and move. So, Happy Birthday Caitlyn! We love you!

PS...Caitlyn is the funnest person to give presents to because she gets so visibly, genuinely excited about each and every one. Just look at her reaction to her new journal (the picture in the middle).

Spooky Night (I really mean day)

2010-04-04T18:30:00.000-07:00

I thought for sure with Halloween being on a weekend this year we would get to trick-or-treat at night, but oh no, I guess the city has a curfew ordinance that mandates trick-or-treating be done between 4-7 pm. So that is just what we did, except for at least this time we were a little more prepared. And in all fairness, I really do see the purpose of afternoon trick-or-treating, it is so much safer, I guess I just have fond memories of my own late night trick-or-treating adventures when I was growing up. So I promise, no more whining.

Just in case you couldn't tell, we have Spider-man here.

Here is the pirate princess. Emma is totally into the double identity thing, remember the vampire cheerleader last year?

Here is our very hip witch.

And of course Brandon couldn't resist the double blade weapon that came with this white ninja costume.

Finally!

2010-03-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

So one of the best parts of our trip to Maine was that while we were there we truly had an answer to our prayers! Yes, we finally sold our house. Of course as they say it isn't official til the money is in the bank, we are pretty sure this will go through. It was a bitter-sweet reality, we are definitely ready to be with our dad, but not quite sure we are ready to leave everyone we have grown so close to. But either way, I definitely know that Heavenly Father was watching over our little family and knew that it was time to be together again. Hopefully we (I) have learned the lessons that we were meant to learn from this whole experience. I can definitely say that nothing is worth the stress on a family when you are apart and the the idea that families are forever has so much more meaning to us. Anyways, so off to Indiana we go!

Mainly Maine

2010-03-28T13:15:00.000-07:00

My sister and her family moved to Maine so her hubby could complete his residency for his master's degree in health administration. So, for our fall break the kids and I wanted to go up to visit. We heard that the fall colors in Maine are amazing and we had a great opportunity to see them AND get to play with cousins too.

On Columbus Day we actually got to go sailing on a schooner. Let's just say it was a once in a lifetime experience. We called ahead and the sailors said that we could bring donuts and hot chocolate on board as a little snack during our sail, which we thought would be perfect because it was freezing cold. Well, little did we know that when you sail on a schooner you are hanging on for dear life because the boat is literally sailing on it's side the whole time. Needless to say, none of the adults got any donut time but the kids managed a few while they were scrunched down in the cracks. Luckily, no one ended up overboard and we all made it back to land safely.

Playing games with Grandma is one of our favorite activities.

We went on a "hike" which I always feel funny saying because the hike wasn't really like what I consider a hike to be because I grew up around mountains. But, it was a little hike up to the top of a pretty big hill, but it was definitely worth it at the top. It was gorgeous! The trees are so dense and the colors are so bright and vivid, breath taking! I know Maine isn't really on anybody's list of places they hope to visit, but it is definitely worth giving it a chance.

We got to see Carter play one of his soccer games. He did awesome!

No fall trip is complete without a trip to the pumpkin patch and a little pumpkin painting. We got an extra special treat and had delicious homemade apple cider donuts---and they were delish.

This is one of my favorite pictures. Isn't it just beautiful! I can't remember the name of this lighthouse, but it was so incredible to see one in real life. The concept of the lighthouse is so amazing and to think that before electricity the light house keepers kept them lit on stormy nights all by themselves is such an incredible thing. They are such a symbol of safety that you can't help but compare them to our gospel and the strength and safety it brings to our lives.

Grandpa and Grandma flew into Maine on Grandpa's birthday, so we decided to surprise him and pick him up at the airport in a black limo. The kids thought it was so fun and it definitely was a surprise for him. We drove right past him and he didn't even see us until Tara got out and brought him over to the limo. We had a yummy dinner at the Sea Dog restaurant, and some yummy dessert at home. We were so glad we got to celebrate his birthday with him.

We went to the the beach twice and both times we were just going to play in the sand, but the kids couldn't resist and ended up getting soaked. This was the first time my kids had seen the Atlantic Ocean and they just wanted to dive right in. But, it was FREEZING cold! Grandpa helped them build a sandcastle, but half way through it turned into a turtle. Also, both times we went a couple of hours before sunset, and ended up getting to see some amazing sunsets as well.

The Talent Fair

2010-03-10T19:39:00.000-08:00

The kids wanted to participate in the primary talent fair. Brandon did a lego creation with a couple of friends from the neighborhood. They worked on the display every day after school until they had everything just right. Emma and Caitlyn did a cheer routine. They practiced everyday after school and did such a great job. (I don't know what I was thinking, and I thought I had a digital video clip of it, but I didn't.)

Back to School

2010-03-10T18:41:00.000-08:00

I think this day comes faster every year. Caitlyn was sooo excited to get on that bus with everyone else in the neighborhood and loves Kindergarten, she only wishes it would be all day.

No, Parker isn't in school, but he really wants to be.

Finally! The bus!

Goin' for the sling backpack this year.

This actually wasn't the first day of school, but is was literally pouring rain on the first day, so we didn't get any pictures. Emma is sportin the shoulder bag this year, which I have been informed is not called a book bag, it is still a back pack.

Turnin' Two

2010-03-10T17:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Parks! Parker's birthday was on Saturday this year and Grandma and Grandpa were able to come for a visit but had to leave in the afternoon, so we had a morning celebration. Which actually worked out quite nice because Parker wanted donuts instead of cake. Plus I am sure he appreciated getting to open presents first thing in the morning instead of having to wait until after dinner. He was/is totally obsessed with Diego this year and loved his rescue pack and Diego train. He also loves his shiny new red wagon, which already has been used on many a walks to the bus.

Potowatomi Zoo (say that 3 times)

2010-03-09T16:44:00.000-08:00

While Matt was finishing up some of his orientation stuff I took the kids to the local zoo, which wasn't really a zoo, more like an animal park. But it was fun and the kids loved seeing the animals they had up close.

This is a rare sight...this is an albino alligator...he was pure white, kinda cool.

Emma's favorite animal, the peacock.

Honestly, I think petting zoo's should be banned, anyone else?

ND Orientation

2010-03-09T16:14:00.000-08:00

Notre Dame has a new student orientation and for some of the activities the families are invited, so we went over to South Bend to see what to expect. Not that it matters at this point because our house still hasn't sold, so we are staying and Matt will be commuting back and forth. So he will go to school during the week and come home on the weekend. He "gets" to stay in a old nunnery that has been converted into dorm rooms for graduate students...and that is exactly what they are....his room is 2 beds, a desk, and a sink and he has to walk down the hall to the community bathroom---gross---thank goodness for flip-flops. Anyways, on family day of the orientation we were able to go down to the ND football locker room and then get to go out onto the field. We got to have lunch in the VIP room/sky box, which the kids though was pretty cool.

The mural on the library has been nicknamed "Touchdown Jesus" because it can bee seen from the stadium inbetween the goalpost.

What?

2010-03-09T16:06:00.000-08:00

Here is Parker obviously enjoying a little summer fudgcicle.

The End

2010-03-09T15:56:00.000-08:00

This picture pretty much sums up the end of our summertime in Utah...exhaustion from fun. One night as we were pulling into the garage after one of our activities, Parker got out of the car and just laid down on the garage floor. He couldn't even make it into the house, he was soo tired. Is there such a thing as having too much fun? :)

I Scream, You Scream

2010-03-09T13:08:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like a Farr's ice cream cone, and you don't really appreciate it until you move away and can't have one. Caitlyn's favorite is Lime Rickey, Emma love chocolate chip cookie dough, Brandon loves playdough, Parker is still in the boring chocolate or vanilla phase (all my kids go through it), and I love the butter pecan. Ice cream is definitely my weakness.

L-A-G-O-O-N

2010-03-09T12:40:00.000-08:00

No summer is complete without a trip (or two) to Lagoon. Why do kids love this place so much?

PS...I know that you can't really see these pictures, but there were just too many, and let's face it, Lagoon pics not really that interesting.

Pretty, Pretty Princess

2010-03-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it was the girls turn for their big shindig. Grandma and grandpa pulled out all of the stops. The party started off with pink lemonade and finger foods dinner, then grandma treated the girls to a pedicure and of course there had to be a little dancin (which Aunt Gyla totally rocks at!). And of course what is a princess party without some fashion down the runway. The girls loved this girly night! Thanks grandma and grandpa!

Happy 78th Birthday, Grandma Nanny!

2010-03-09T11:42:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Grandma's birthday at the Timbermine Restaurant. Yummy food, great family, and good memories. My kids are pretty lucky to get to be able to know and have memories of their great-great grandmother. Even though Grandma can barely see or hear, she knows each of the kids by name and always makes them feel special. We love you Grandma!

Great-Great Grandma Nanny

Great Grandma Bonnie

Discovering

2010-03-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

We normally don't dress up when going to the children's museum, but we met the Ashtons and Aunt Jen at the museum after the temple open house. It is always a classic and the kids really love getting to spend time with their cousins.

Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple Open House

2010-03-09T10:27:00.000-08:00

We were so lucky that the Qquirrh Mountain Utah Temple open house was going on while we were in Utah. It is a rare opportunity to get to go to a temple open house and I was so glad my kids got the opportunity to go through the open house. They loved it and had lots of good questions about what takes place there. I just think it is so great because now when Matt and I say we are going to the temple they have a little bit of an idea of what that means and have a picture of what it looks like on the inside. Hopefully it has instilled in them a desire to want to go through and be married in the temple one day.

A Birthday Treat

2010-03-09T09:33:00.000-08:00

We gathered to celebrate Grandpa and Grandma's birthday and Grandpa gave us all a little treat...he played a couple of songs on his harmonica, which is totally something he wold do. When I was growing up we would visit them on Sundays and Grandpa would often get out his Omnicord and sing "You Are My Sunshine" or "Babes In the Woods" to us. I love that my kids know their great-grandparents and they are able to make these great memories too. We love and miss you Grandma and Grandpa!

Click here for a link to the Babes in the Woods song.

Arrrgh! (It's a Real Pirate's Word)

2010-03-07T13:00:00.000-08:00

I don't know where my mom gets her energy and I was definiely not blessed with the "party gene" considering my poor kids only get a friend birthday party every 4 years, but this summer she wanted to throw her grandkids a little party, just because it would be fun and they would definitely love it. She and my dad (her willing? helper) gave the boys a pirate party. They got to eat pirate pizza and peg leg pretzels, make their own goblets to drink from, dress-up in full pirate attire which included eye-patch, whiskers, and hook hand, walk the plank, and of course what pirate party would be complete without a treasure hunt? The boys LOVED it! Here are just a couple of pictures of the gazillion I took. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa! ARRGGH!

Pineview

2010-03-07T12:20:00.000-08:00

So we got this great idea to head up to Pineview Dam and spend the day there having a picnic, boating, waterskiing, and tubing. Unfortunately, everyone else had the exact same idea on the exact same day, so we spent hours driving from beach to beach looking for a good place to set up. After such a frazzled start, both the kids AND the grown-ups were glad when with a little stroke of luck we landed on a great beach, perfect for swimming and sand-castle-ing. Thanks Grandma for the great picnic and thanks grandpa for being our captain all day.

The Funniest Things

2010-03-07T08:38:00.000-08:00

Isn't it amazing the simple things that keep kids entertained. Almost every morning the kids would spend a good hour out on the porch watching the diggers in Grandpa and Grandma's back yard (and usually grandpa was out there too.) :) I mean they had a whole play room full of every kind of toy imaginable, yet they were mesmerized by the truck digging a hole. Definitely gonna make me think twice when that new toy comes out that they just HAVE to have.

4th Continued

2010-03-02T14:01:00.000-08:00

After our Plain City festivities, we just had to continue the celebrations with a little water fun at Aunt Alli and Uncle Jerry's. They have a great pump up water slide that the kids loved going on. Grandma and Aunt TT had some fun water games planned like water kickball and a sponge relay. We ended the day with yummy taco salads from Taco Time. And just as a side note, Grandpa and daddy were in big trouble because they paid, yes PAID, Brandon to dump a great big bucket of COLD water on his totally unsuspecting mom, yes that would be me! I didn't even see it coming, I was totally dry and engrossed in a conversation with my mom and sisters, then the next thing I know I am soaking wet, freezing cold, and speechless. What was the price for this evil scheme? $5 bucks! Yes, what my kids won't do for a little green. I was trying to be a good sport, but someone definitely slept on the couch that night! :)

Tradition

2010-03-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

Almost every year we are in Utah to celebrate the 4th of July. And what a better way to start the day than riding in the Plain City Parade on Grandpa and Grandma's fire truck. The kids love to throw candy to all the spectators and then head over to the park for all the good food and festivities. But I think what they really love the most is being able to spend time with their Grandma and Grandpa's and making such good memories.

Brandon was the only one that went "fishing" this year. Every year there is a homemade fishing hole made and the kids get a chance to catch a fish with their bare hands. There are a ton of fish just swimming around the kids' feet and they try to catch one as fast as they can, which is a lot harder than it looks considering the fish are slippery little things. Brandon was very happy he caught one all by himself! Good job Brando!

Summer Kick Off

2010-02-06T20:25:00.000-08:00

The kids and I got to spend a couple of weeks in Utah visiting friends and family. And what a better way to kick off the summer fun than taking a train ride to the splash fountain. And I must say it was definitely an adventure. We were running late (as usual) and just jumped on the train before it was shutting it's doors. Paigely didn't think everyone made it on so she was trying to look out the door and see, but the doors kept closing. Poor thing almost got her head shut in the doors, which was definitely a little traumatic. In fact, Emma now has a phobia of elevator doors closing on her. But, once e got to the water park it was all good.

Play Ball

2010-02-06T18:57:00.000-08:00

Baseball season started again this year and Brandon landed on the Dodgers team. He did awesome and was so very excited because it was coach pitch this year and they were even learning how to do a little sliding (which Brandon did every chance he got, whether he needed to or not).

The beloved trophy---makes all those practices and games worth it.

Good hit bud!

Just fielding the ball.

...And he slides...

9 in '09

2010-02-06T18:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Emma! We celebrated her 9th birthday this year with just our little family. Emma got to open presents and we had brownies and ice cream. Luckily for me, cuz I am not the best cake decorator, my kids don't really like cake. So they always pick other fun treats like brownies or doughnuts, and as long as I can put a candle in it, perfect. We can't believe how fast our little girl has grown up! We love you, Em!

It's a Classic

2010-02-06T17:54:00.000-08:00

I think one of the best perks of being a mom is getting to dress your kids however you want, and I just couldn't resist this bowtie. There is just something so adorable about a little boy in a bowtie.

The Dells

2010-01-24T18:31:00.000-08:00

This year we got to take a summer vacation with all of Matt's family. We all decided to meet in Wisconsin Dells because it really is such a great little vacation spot. Melissa and Alan and their kids, Josh and Alli, drove over from Utah, and Jen flew into Chicago. Grandma and Grandpa drove over from Iowa with Jamie. We got to stay in a little cabin at the Wilderness Resort, which has a ton of both indoor and outdoor swimming pools and water slides. As you can imagine, we have a TON of pictures of this fun trip, but I just wanted to highlight some of my favorites. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for making these great memories possible!

Here is the cabin we were able to stay in. It was super nice and perfect.

Besides water-slides the Wilderness Resort had a great indoor playland and climbing area.

Here are the kids making plans for their "attack" in the ball pit. There are huge air-soft guns that you can load with soft balls and shoot at anyone in the play area.

I believe this is the "target," who is having just as much fun as the kids I might add.

The adults got a little grown-up game time in.

Aunt Jen was being a good sport---the kids loved wrestling with her.

Aunt Jamie gave many a piggy-back rides during our stay.

While we were all together we celebrated Josh and Emma's summer birthdays. Josh will turn 8 this year and Emma will turn 9.

Just takin' 5 (or maybe 20).

Of course swimming was the favorite activity of the day. I swear if we let them the kids would have stayed in the water all day and night.

This is Parker's kind of swimming. He had great fun filling up his bucket over and over.

Caitlyn is playing a little water basketball, with the help of Uncle Alan of course.

Alli is testing out one of the waterslides.

Ah, yes. No swimming trip is complete without a little (or big) water gun fight.

This is one of my favorite pictures....cousins make the best friends!

Emma getting ready to spend some time in the wave pool.

They emerged from the black hole alive!

The water skiers at the Tony Bartlett show were amazing! I mean who can do that?

This is the horn guy. He seriously could play any song on these horns placed all over his body.

"Patiently" waiting for swim time.

PS...I don't have a picture but we also went and got our pictures taken in one of those old time photo shops. We all got dressed up as old time "gangstas" and the kids had a ball. The pictures turned out so cute and fun. Definitely a classic.

Quick Trip

2010-01-24T18:11:00.000-08:00

We made a quick trip to Iowa before the summer got started and one of the kid's favorite thing to do is take a trip to the children's museum.

Mom's Day

2010-01-23T13:23:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I am feeling like a really bad mom because it was mom's day at Caitlyn's preschool and I totally forgot my camera---so sorry Cait! But, we did have an amazing time spending the afternoon together at her school. Among our activities were a hand massage, making matching bracelets, planting a flower, eating yummy pretzels and juice, and last but certainly not least reading some of her favorite classroom stories. It was a really special day and I am so glad we got to spend it as mom and daughter. Her preschool also gave each mom a copy of this great story that I thought I would pass along...just something to think about.

The Invisible Mother
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone (or even on the toilet) and ask to be taken somewhere.

Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm busy?" Obviously, not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all.

I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more; Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this?

Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a taxi to order, "Right around 5:30 PM, please."

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude---but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going; she's going; she is gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package and said, "I brought you this."

It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees." In the days ahead I would read---no, devour---the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work.

No one can say who built the great cathedrals--we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it." And the workman replied, "Because God sees."

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on , no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.

The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4:00 AM and bakes homemade pies. Then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to hi friend, to add, "you're gonna love it there."

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

Great Job, Moms!

Decisions, Decisions

2010-01-23T09:22:00.000-08:00

After much pondering, fasting, and prayer, we made the decision that Matt would apply to graduate school and attend full time if he was accepted. Actually, Matt really has been trying to get his MBA for a long time, it just seems like other things kept taking precedence (ie, kids, new job, and moving). It is kinda funny though because our whole married life we have said that we never wanted to have five kids and have him trying to go back to school for his MBA. Funny how life never seems to go according to OUR plan though. So, with FOUR kids we are starting this new phase of our life. Matt applied to lots of places in the Chicago area, but his hope was that he would be accepted into the University of Notre Dame's MBA program. Growing up in the midwest, he always thought it would be great to attend ND. Unfortunately, his GMAT scores had expired so he had to retake the GMAT, which meant a lot of hard studying and lots of prayers. But, it ended up to be a blessing in disguise because he did much better the second time around. So, a couple of months and interviews later, we got the good news...he was a an official "Domer," he was accepted as an MBA candidate at the University of Notre Dame! He will be attending their two year program full time, so we put our house on the market and are hopefully heading to South Bend, IN this summer. The kids took the news of the move better than expected, but I don't think they really understood that we won't be coming back to our neighborhood, and with the housing market in a huge slump right now, we could almost guarantee them they would be able to finish out the school year and spend one last summer in Illinois---that was a great relief to them. So, with lots of faith and a little bit of luck, we are hopping on the starving student wagon hoping to be in a better place at the end of the ride. Wish us luck!

Two Wheeler

2010-01-23T08:57:00.000-08:00

Yea! Caitlyn is so ecstatic that she can finally ride a two wheeler like all her friends! Actually, it was a couple of her friends, Emily and Taylor, who taught her how on her little bike. They kept working everyday after school until she finally got it. Good job, Caitlyn!

Pug Party

2010-01-22T18:04:00.000-08:00

Aunt Jen came all the way from Utah with her pug, Samson, to go to a pug party downtown. These pug parties are a huge deal and people attend them with their pugs from all over. The kids were very excited to see both her and Samson and couldn't get enough of him. They all went with her to the party and had a great time seeing all the pugs in their costumes and generally just seeing sooo many pugs together at once. It was a great experience! Thanks for sharing!

I Put Ketchup On My Ketchup

2010-01-22T17:39:00.000-08:00

Yes, this picture is exactly what you think it is...Parker is DRINKING ketchup out of the bottle. I literally turned my back for 2 seconds and when I turned around this is what I saw. One of those make-u-gag mom moments. I guess when you need more ketchup, you need more ketchup, right? All I can say is his Aunt Amy would be so proud....she who puts ketchup on cottage cheese and doesn't mind a ketchup sandwich (bread + Ketchup) every now and then. Bottoms up?!