A New Year has Come!!!

Time seems to be flying by! Our Christmas break was amazing, it couldn't have been better... except for that time when we all became sick. I guess that's what happens when you put 20 people under one roof. \"/
The kids couldn't get enough of the Grandparents, cousins, and exciting outings. We spent a week in St. George and one week in SLC.
Our week in St. George with my family was a blast. We went down to the "Farm" and had a scavenger hunt and hotdog roast. Don't tell my kids, but I went down earlier and dug a 3 foot hole in the ground and burried a box filled with dollar toys. We then told the kids there was a burried treasure on the property, gave them a sketchy map and shovels. It was a great time! Thanks to Neil's cowboy ambition, he got the horses saddled and we all were able to go for a ride. The farm has been such a fabulous escape for our family and I really love the time we get to spend down there. The kids have a great time and feel so free to run-a-muck. Preston was able to drive the 4-Wheeler by himself, he felt so cool. I was grateful to have some much needed girl time with my Mom. She helped me sew babydoll blankets for Kailee's Christmas. I wish I could just put her in a tote bag and take her with me. Angela was in town too... We're silly together, it made for some great chats. My kids will miss the farm, tickles, curlers, dress-ups, rides to town with Grandpa in the truck (He loaded up all three of them while he ran errands.) and Grandma's delicious Chicken noodle soup. We also were there to celebrate Mom's Birthday. She spent it, by choice, putting curlers in Kailee's hair, making bracelets with Kailee, and taking all the girls and grandkids to the movie. What a fun day it was.

Our week in Salt Lake was Fabulous. We came up on the 23rd to be there in time for Christmas. We spent an amazing Christmas Eve at Annie and Regan's new house, which was beautiful, and Annie had fixed up some amazing soups/and bread bowls for dinner. They're great hosts. Then for Christmas morning we had a fun breakfast with everyone. I was responsible for the less than perfect scones... sorry. The kids had a wonderful Christmas. Preston's highlight was his electric scooter which he had to wait a few days to ride... snow etc., Kailee loved her "Fur-Real" kitty and babydolls. Michael was just so happy and enjoyed everyone's toys. He liked his Thomas trains and the toys at Grandma's. They had a fun time with their now bigger cousins. They were so cute playing together. I felt bad one day for Tanner, Michael ran to him saying "Nanner, Hug!" and gave him a nice football tackle. Poor thing. We all got to go for a ride in Grandpa's cool airplane, except for Kailee of course who didn't want to go unless baby Brooklyn went with her. That Saturday we also watched Ashton's Eagle Court of Honor. The Next day was Zack's mission farewell. He just left last Wednesday to the Mission Training Center. He did a great job on his talk and We're excited for the experiences ahead of him. That Monday we went to see the Nativity in Temple Square, it was so gorgeous. It was wonderful to take the kids this time around because they remembered a little bit and understand things better. It was a neat experience with Adam's parents and Ashton.

The best thing about this trip I think was the way Michael really loved being around everyone and learned their names. He had so much fun chasing, hugging, playing, and begging for food, he was in toddler heaven. It was an exciting trip altogether. We really enjoy all of our family and are just so blessed to have such great people around us. So much fun!!!
Back to Real life, Pictures later :(

Birthday Moment of Gratitude...

Since it is my Birthday, I am allowed to do anything I want, right??? "Anything" includes writing on my blog if I feel so inclined... and I do.
The things I'm most thankful for vary from year to year and often day to day. The circumstances surrounding me at the time have helped to dictate my priorities and the things that mean most to me. Today, I find myself thankful for "My people". (As Preston would say)
My husband who has shown me through our marriage that I am a priority in his life. He's always making my day with something. Today he made me the most delicious strawberry pancakes for breakfast. (An invention for his strawberry loving wife.) He means so much to me and I'm so blessed to have him.
I also am feeling a great amount of gratitude for my Mother who always made my birthday special, and still does somehow even miles away. And Dad who always worked and provided and loved us with Mom... and made us laugh.
I'm grateful to Kailee who wanted to put up "Congratulations" for my party. (Meaning Decorations). To Preston who made me a card for me enclosing 3 pennies. And to Michael who knew something was special about today and greeted me with the most joyful hug out of bed.
To Grandparents leading the way with their experience and wisdom. My siblings who set such an example to me of love and encouragement and fun times. And my amazing in-laws who have joined me in their famililes by no fault of their own. Each of you have a place in my heart.
And to my friends, some old some new, who take the time to call, meet, share, and be there just when I need you... and you don't even know it.
It's one thing to be grateful for what you have, today I marvel at how I've been blessed. I am lucky girl, and so darn happy to have you all surrounding me. Thanks to God for all of you.

Some time in SLC July-09

We were excited to go through the open house of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. The open house is awesome because it gives anyone a chance to see inside the temple before it is closed to those with special recommends. I love the feeling I get inside the temple, espcially having all my family there together. What a unique opportunity for my children to be able to go inside and see what a special place it is. This is just one of 130 LDS temples around the world. Right now there are 8 more under construction and 13 more announced.

Here's Preston sneaking in some one on one with Grandpa. Preston had just lost his bottom tooth, that's one proud kid... and Grandpa!

The adorable girl in Pink is Brooklyn. She is Michael's competition for favorite grandchild. Just because your closest Brooklyn, doesn't mean you automatically win. Michael's got other things... like more teeth.

And thank you Grandma Copier for Kailee's Pioneer hat. So adorable for Pioneer day... She loved it. Anything with hearts. \"/

Thank You Vandy's for such a special time with you. It was great to see you working in the temple, it was like coming home. Love you.

Here is a link if you are curious about the temple.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLXYxmaHWQs

Jacob and Grace's Baptisms

Being away from family has it ups and downs. "Downs" when something significant happens in a family members life and we have to miss it, and incredible "ups" when we actually get to share their special day. Preston was able to attend his favorite boy cuz's Baptism while on his trip to California with his Dad. He had an awesome time with Jacob and was thrilled to be there for his baptism. We were sad to miss Grace's baptism earlier in the year, she had a very special day as well.
We are so proud of Jacob and Grace and their decision to be baptized. I'm amazed at these little ones and their already great knowledge of the Gospel. It wasn't until I taught a primary class of eight year olds that I realized how smart an eight year old can be, and how strong their desire is for good. They are so incredibly sweet, It's no wonder we love them so much.
And while they are busy getting smart and all, I hope they can still remember who their favorite aunt is!!! (Do you need a hint?)

Two cool dudes in Lego Land

Adam told Preston he could go anywhere in the country he wanted to go. The result... A trip, just the two of them, to Legoland. Preston was in Heaven... (Lego heaven if there is one) which meant Adam was too. The anticipation building up to the trip seemed almost as exciting as the trip itself. Preston wanted to stay in a really nice hotel, and had specifics of what made one nice. When it finally came time to go, even meeting Dad at the airport was incredibly exciting. I certainly can't speak for them and their feelings on their trip, but I know how much Preston adores his Dad and know this was likely the best time of his life.

How lucky Preston is to have a father of such good character. I've got 3 incredibles boys surrounding me.

Our trip to Houston/Galveston

In June, just as school ended, we were invited to Houston by our good friends Katrina, Ryan and Daniel. Ryan was on a project there and we were all able to stay in a large suite. The kids were thrilled to get to stay in a hotel... somehow that is the coolest thing ever. I especially appreciated the break from my household duties. We took a little adventure to Galveston and enjoyed the water. I'd especially would like to thank Katrina for following her instincts to invite me on this trip. While we were gone a small tornado hit a mile away from my house. I'm grateful I wasn't around to see it.

Houston Children's Museum

We went to an awesome children's Museum. It was comparable to one we went to in Portland. The kids were facinated with each station and had a great time exploring. We spent the most time in the science department making paper airplanes and watching them fly in a wind tunnel. We had a great time.

This is what I saw when I walked into our hotel bathroom.




Who would have guessed it... one of my children. If you are missing a child, look in your cupboards. And if you open it and find mine, please send them home.

Preston Is 6 ~June 5th~

Preston has been such a blessing to our family. He's had a kind heart, noticeable since he was a baby. He is an example to his little brother and sister as well as Adam and me. Preston has incredible faith. When ever we have a problem in our family he is the first to remind us to pray. He is a big helper around the house and is always entertaining his two little shadows. We are grateful to have such a special boy in our home. Happy Birthday Preston

Preston's 1st Baseball League Spring 2009

We've noticed that Preston is a tall kid. He is the oldest on his team and a head taller as well. Adam's been working with him and Pres is a pretty good hitter. He's had a fun time playing 1st base and wacking the ball into the field. We've sure enjoyed watching him as well. Pres is pretty serious when he plays and likes to stick to business. That said, we love when he takes time to wave to us during a game, or check to see if we're looking after hit.

Fossil Rim Safari in Texas... Huh? ~June~

So we just had to check out this random Safari in Texas. We had an awesome time cruiz'n around in the desert. The kids favorite part was feeding the animals... they were given a bag of little food. The animals took it right out of their hands, arm, face, whichever was closest. Adam and I jumped in on the action. The animals were not afraid to stick their head in our car.

St. George in May...

When we came for Matt's wedding, we were able to do a few more fun things. It was a super time because we had all the family there. Neil and Michelle let us use their pool, and their house as a hub for the wedding party. We are lucky to have some of Adam's family in St. George too. It makes the visits that much better. As you can see, the kids really enjoy spending time with their cousins.