Fun & Follies

Pinewood Derby 2012

2012-01-31T10:42:00.000-05:00

Third time is the charm!

This was Connor's third Pinewood Derby and he had not done very well in the past, but he always had a smile on his face and was a great sport. So of course on our way to the church to take part in the racing we had a discussion about good sportsmanship, win or lose. Thinking that the car would follow the path of previous years I focused heavily on the being a good sport if you lose.

To our astonishment Connor and his "corvette" car did great. He placed second and was thrilled with his victory, and thankfully was as good a winner as he had been when he was the loser.

Gage is SIX

2012-01-31T10:36:00.000-05:00

My little buddy is growing up. Gage is the boy who loves to be with his mom, he constantly wants to snuggle with me, read to me, generally just hang out with me. But with school, he has really started to grow up and thinks that he is getting to big for me. It's a sad day when that happens.

I took him to lunch for his birthday and when I asked him to hold my hand to cross the road he replied, "Mom, I'm a big boy now and to old for that. I think I've got this."

I think I'll be hearing more and more of that from my little man. But he always follows up with hugs and kisses, although I know that he will soon think he is to big for that to.

I love this little big boy.

I thought I'd make fun cupcakes for his birthday in lieu of a cake. When I unveiled my creation to him, thinking he would jump for joy, he simply said, "Oh, those look neat. I was hoping they would be Pokemon." WHAT? Seriously?

We love our Gage and all his great qualities. He is a genuinely funny kid with charm and personality, he gets everyone under his spell somehow and gets favors from all. But he is one loyal guy, he is loyal to the end.
We love you Gage.

Battle of Antietam

2012-01-31T10:28:00.000-05:00

With a free day on the long weekend we decided to pick back up on our sight seeing adventures.

We chose to visit Antietam to learn the history of the Battle of Antietam (or the Battle of Sharpsburg if you are from the South).

This was the bloodiest battle of the civil war and the first on Union Soil. General Lee was looking for a victory on Union soil to give a boost to the Confederate cause after winning in Manassas, Virginia. A move to northern soil would also give some of the South time to harvest crops and salvage what they could of their war torn states.

There were more American casualties on this day, September 17,1862 than any other day in military history. The Union troops equaled 75,500 and the Confederates had only 38,000. Neither side had any idea how many the other had, the Union had grossly overestimated how many Confederate soldiers there were and the Confederates had grossly under estimated the Union side. The battle lasted all day, civilians had fled their homes and farms to flee the fighting, many came home to find nothing, their homes burned, their fields and crops trampled and littered with dead from both sides, broken cannons, dead animals, absolute devastation. Many later wrote that when they returned home all they had to live on for several days were army rationed crackers that they were able to find left behind or found with the dead.

This is how Antietam looks today, not to different than it did in 1862. The same farms are there, re-built and occupied. It is quite a small area and hard to imagine over 100,000 troops flooding these fields and fighting. When I visit these places I am struck by the relatively small area and the very little amount of cover that any soldier would have had. Many of the fallen soldiers were killed in a small cornfield and a narrow stretch of land that came to be known as Bloody Lane.

Above is Bloody Lane where many soldiers were killed. When walking and driving through these battlefields there are monuments everywhere, generally placed there by a state to commemorate and honor their soldiers who fought there.

Burnside's Bridge

The last part of the battle occurred just over this bridge. The Confederates were located on the far side of this bridge, the Union where we stood to take this picture. The Confederates held the high ground and by all accounts had the upper hand here, but it was their last strong hold, their only way out of Antietam was to flee from this bridge and back across the Potomac three miles away. Ultimately that is what happened. The Union soldiers charged across this bridge, losing many on the way as they charged directly into the Confederate canons and barrage of gun fire. The Union took heavy casualties, some units suffering almost total losses. Total number of casualties for the day, 22,719 troops. It would take months to bury the dead. Some soldiers who fought here marched through on their way to battle one year later and recalled that they came upon remains after remains that were buried in hasty shallow graves and were now being exposed, it was very haunting for many of them.

What a great place to live, I feel like we are living in history's back yard.

No School

2012-01-31T10:03:00.000-05:00

The school district had a teacher work day last week and we decided to take the morning and visit the Air & Space Museum near our house and use up our IMAX tickets we had been holding on to for quite some time. We went to watch Fighter Pilots. The boys were excited, the girls questioned whey there were not princesses in the movie. I now have at least two boys who want to fly fighter jets.

The boys were all enthralled with this exhibit, it had several artifacts that were used during the Vietnam war. But this is what they were all interested in ...

The "doggy doo" transmitter. That's right, a transmitter that is camouflaged to look like doggy doo, no one would suspect a transmitter encased in dog poop so apparently it was quite effective. Of all the awesome planes, spaceships, etc the museum had to offer, this was the most popular item, and probably the smallest in the entire museum.

Double Digits for Connor

2012-01-31T09:53:00.000-05:00

This boy is 10 - not that I needed to tell you, I think you can tell by how cool he is in all his pictures. For some reason when a boy is double digits they feel the need to make silly faces and act cool for all pictures taken of themselves. Oh how fun our birthday photo shoot is going to be.

For the third year in a row Ryan was out of town for Connor's birthday. But he was the cool dad who took the boys and a few of Connor's friends to play laser tag before heading out of town.

Connor vacillates between thinking he is pretty darn awesome at everything and feeling like he isn't good at anything. Thankfully he spends more time feeling he is awesome.

He is super helpful around the house and begs me to be able to babysit. On a few occasions we have been leaving him to tend the kids while we do a few errands and we come home to find the house clean and the kids peacefully playing together, what a nice break!

Connor continues to be a great student, earning top grades in everything. He loves sports and begs us to sign him up for tackle football. I suppose it is time. He is growing up much to quickly for my liking.

Happy birthday Connor, we sure do love you.

Tate - 0 Asphalt - 1

2012-01-30T23:22:00.000-05:00

Tate has always been our competitive child. He competes with himself over everything, always trying to be better. In preparation for his first real basketball game he decided to practice outside in the driveway before his game. He worked and worked, dribbled, shot, etc. Some of the neighborhood kids joined him, he always plays with the older kids to challenge himself a little more.This day was no different.

At some point he tripped over his own two feet while holding the ball and his cute little face is what broke his fall. He didn't want to drop the ball and have the other kids get it and score while he was down. His poor face took a beating. He howled like I've never heard him howl. I had just stepped out of the shower and heard him running into the house with the neighbor kids screaming, "Tate is covered in blood!" There was quite the excitement at our house. His face was a mess, there was blood everywhere with a trail all the way up the driveway and into the house.

We got him cleaned up enough to see that we should probably take him in to be checked out. What I thought would be a quick visit for some glue and flushing the asphalt out of the many cuts and scrapes. We were sent to the ER for and MRI to rule out facial and nose fractures, etc.

He ended up with a clean bill of health, but missed his game in the mean time. But there have been some upsides, girls fawning over him, giving him all sorts of attention and scabs to pick to look at under the microscope. I like a kid who can look on the positive side of things!

What a handsome boy! He ended up with two black eyes and lots of swelling, but he's looking more like normal now.

Prima Ballerina

2012-01-30T23:12:00.000-05:00

McCall has started dance classes.

She has been so excited to be a ballerina. Grandma Gulbranson bought her her first leotard for her birthday and she has been anxious to wear it!

Let's hope she is more graceful than her mother who was persuaded, gently, to pursue t-ball or soccer in lieu of being a ballerina. Turns out, it was good advice for me.

Botanical Gardens

2012-01-30T23:06:00.000-05:00

We had been told by many that the Botanical Gardens in Washington D.C. are a must see during the holiday season. I looked forward to it until we could finally get there.

It wasn't disappointing. Each year is a different theme.

This year historic and iconic buildings throughout DC and the rest of America were featured. Each was made completely out of organic plants. It was absolutely amazing, what talent. The kids were in awe with the model trains weaving in and out of the displays. They loved seeing all of the buildings and monuments that we have been seeing all over DC represented.

The Capitol

Monticello

Smithsonian Castle

The White House

Christmas Day 2011

2012-01-30T22:53:00.000-05:00

Christmas morning came, we waited and waited and waited, until I could wait no longer.

I figured the kids would be up nice and early and I wanted to see their faces when they saw the tree and presents and stockings. So Ryan and I wrapped the kids door so there would be no sneaking out.

But by 7:30 when they were still sleeping we thought we had better wake them up. With 9:00 church and needing breakfast before hand we were running out of time.

The kids raced down stairs and opened up their stockings before having breakfast and heading to church.

It was one of the nicest Christmas mornings we have ever had.

Christmas Eve PJ's

2012-01-30T22:43:00.000-05:00

Christmas Eve tradition - pajama's.

This is probably my favorite tradition from my childhood, I don't know why, but I loved coming home from Grandma's house after stuffing ourselves on a grand Christmas dinner to find warm Christmas pajama's to put on. Maybe because it felt like we were kicking off the festivities just a little early, but to this day, I love this tradition.

We also opened gifts from each other on Christmas Eve. The kids were so excited to get the gift exchange going. It was quite fun to go shopping with them as they thoughtfully picked out presents that they really felt the other would like. I love this time of year!

Santa dropped off his yearly letter, largely ignored by most of the children until the chaos and excitement has died down slightly.

Awaiting the children.

Mr. & Mrs. Gulbranson Part 2

2012-01-30T22:30:00.000-05:00

So after the wedding ceremony we headed over to the reception and had a good old time.

This is my ideal type of get together, good food, good friends and plenty of time for visiting.

So fun to see family and friends we haven't seen in such a long time.

My family had not seen McCall since she was 1 - she is now 3 and such a big girl.

Connor loved playing with his cousins and being silly, asking girls to dance.

Just a grand old time!

Mr. & Mrs. Gulbranson

2012-01-30T22:19:00.000-05:00

I used to think I was one of a kind.

Turns out, when your little brother marries a girl with your name,

you are no longer the only Kara Gulbranson.

What are the chances?

But I wouldn't have it any other way, the entire day I felt special as everyone spoke kindly of Kara and how beautiful she was and all her redeeming qualities. I just imagined they were speaking of me.

Loved it.

Beautiful day, beautiful couple.

Welcome to the family Kara (#2)!

Washington DC Temple Lights

2011-12-28T11:11:00.000-05:00

Another tradition to improvise ...

Each year we go to Temple Square in Salt Lake City to see the beautiful lights, seriously amazing. Well, this year we felt the drive would be to much for the kids to handle so we opted for the Washington DC Temple Lights and we were not disappointed. It's not quite as big as the Salt Lake festivities, but it was beautiful and we were able to warm up in the visitor's center and look at a Nativity exhibit of nativities from around the world. The kids loved looking for any from places that either their dad or an uncle had served their mission in. We found almost every country and will be doing this again!

Christmas Decor

2011-12-28T11:04:00.000-05:00

I got a little nostalgic while decorating this year. With each box I opened it brought me back to this time last year when I was packing up my entire house to move across the country. It reminded me of my friend, Luci, helping me put away a few things. It reminded me of our old house and neighborhood. As I took things out and tried to find a new place for them, I pictured where they were in my old house and I got a little teary. But I would not trade this last year for anything, we have learned so much, enjoyed so much, seen and visited so much, met so many great people and have loved every minute of it.

One day I will be decorating in a new place and remembering where we are at now.

I have to admit that as we were packing the trailer last year my Christmas trees and Ryan's golf clubs were the last things to put in the trailer. Only, there was no room at all! So they were left behind. I mourned my trees as I am sure Ryan mourned his clubs. But I shouldn't have fussed and whined, because I ended up with an even nicer tree, and Ryan still has no clubs - perhaps his birthday.

Annapolis Parade of Lights

2011-12-28T10:57:00.000-05:00

Every year my hometown has a parade of lights down main street in town to celebrate Christmas. Several businesses, churches and individuals put together floats that feature everything from the nativity to Santa. It is a fun tradition that I miss. So this year, when I heard that Annapolis does something similar - only with boats on the harbor in lieu of logging trucks and tractors down main street - we decided that we needed to go. So we headed to Annapolis with our good friends the Sorensen's and took in the sights. It was great. It didn't last very long, we had hot cocoa, it was a beautiful drive and is definitely a place I want to get back to as soon as possible! A charming town!

As you can see, Tate sampled the hot cocoa, and enjoyed it, as did his face.

Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting

2011-12-28T10:47:00.000-05:00

We met Ryan at work for the Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting. It was neat to be there and we had a great spot to see from, that is until the Occupy protestors decided to march right in front of us! UGH! The kids were a little confused at the people walking right in front of them and shouting, all they wanted to see was the Christmas tree. But they left shortly after the lighting, climbed back on to their charted bus and headed to their cozy warm hotel room and room service. I hope they didn't get to chilled in their efforts.

Christmas Advents

2011-12-26T23:31:00.000-05:00

I love Christmas Advent Calendars and traditions.

Last year my aunt Keli introduced us to a tradition that they do each year and I immediately loved it. They wrap up 24 Christmas books and open one each night before Christmas. Seeing as my mom has given us at least one Christmas book each year, as well as our aunt Cindy sending the kids Christmas books each year, we had well over 24 books, so we started wrapping. The kids took turns choosing a book to unwrap and we read them together nightly. We often forgot our candy advent calendar over the month, but we always did our books and it was by far our favorite thing to do together as a family. We will continue to do this each year and we absolutely love it.

The first book we unwrapped was "A Porcupine in a Pine Tree" - this is the book my mom sent to us last year and I think it is my favorite Christmas book right now. It reminds me of home, and the kids loved reading about Canada and getting a kick out of the illustrations, all you Canadians out there will love this book! I suggest you get a copy right now!

This is our candy and activity advent calendar. We fill the tin canisters with treats, slips of paper with things to do on them and we enjoy doing this as well, it sure beats the chocolate ones you buy at the dollar store!

McCall turns 3

2011-12-26T23:20:00.000-05:00

McCall requested a pink and chocolate cake for her birthday. So I looked all over Pinterest - they have all the answers! I found this cake that looked so beautiful and yummy and it had chocolate with pink peppermint layers inside and a pink peppermint marshmallow icing. It was gorgeous, and mine turned out like this ...

So now we know that cakes are not my thing ... but she was still in love with her cake.

Until it actually came time to eat it, sing Happy Birthday, etc. Then her little world fell apart.

I'm not sure why, it could have been a number of things, perhaps her sock was twisted, or her lip balm wasn't screwed on just right, or someone dared speak to her when she was not prepared for it. Whatever the reason, McCall had a giant melt down right before we sang her happy birthday, throughout the dishing of the cake, etc. While all our guests were so kind to her and tried to cheer her up I ignored her in exasperation. I don't understand the moodiness and utter melt downs that occur on at least a daily basis. I need a manual to go with the XX chromosome, I was not prepared for this.

But not to worry, the gifts were brought out and the girl cheered immediately with the knowledge that she was to have presents. Clothes, costumes, dolls and most importantly, lip balm.

What a difference just a few minutes can make.

She may not know this yet, but her goals for the next year are to be able to control her emotions, stop the fits and incessant whining. Any suggestions you have for helping her with this are welcome!

Three will be a good year for this girl. She is already getting so big and so very much fun. While the melt downs, alligator tears and whining drive me absolutely batty - the little girly things melt my heart. The constant application of lip balm, the sitting with little legs crossed, the "you look beautiful today Mom" comments, the crafting and "cooking" and playing house make up for it.

We love this little girl and are so grateful she is part of the family.

National Harbor ICE

2011-12-26T23:05:00.000-05:00

We kicked off the Holiday season with a trip to National Harbor to see the ICE sculptures. This year it was Merry Madagascar and we absolutely loved it! Everything was made out of ice and it was very impressive. The ice sculptures were huge and the slides were so much fun.

It was a little chilly inside the ice tents so they were good enough to lend us these beautiful blue coats, which made sliding down the slides so much better as well. This is a tradition that we will continue.

Being 9 is so cool, just ask these two!

At the end of the Merry Madagascar portion there was a nativity scene all carved out of ice and it was beautiful! I loved how it brought the spirit of Christmas to our family, top that off with hot cocoa, Krispy Kreme doughnuts and watching Merry Madagascar on the way home and it was quite the way to spend the day!

Wolf Cub

2011-12-26T22:46:00.000-05:00

The Little Man did it. He made it through Wolf Cubs and is now ready to move on to Webelos. Connor loves cubs and is so excited to move up, I was a little sad to realize that as Tate begins Cubs in a couple of months that they will not be in the same troop at all, but instead I will have two in separate troops, meeting in separate locations. Add that to basketball, dance classes, soccer and lacrosse starting up in March, I think my schedule will be full and I will be in need of a full time nanny and chauffeur because I'm tired thinking of it! Let the good times roll!

Marriott Ranch Family BBQ

2011-11-15T21:24:00.000-05:00

We were invited to go to the Marriott Ranch in Hume, VA. The kids were resistant to go, we were not sure what to expect and they thought they would be sitting in meetings most of the afternoon listening to ambassadors and general authority's from Salt Lake speaking. Well, none of that happened and within minutes of unloading from our car they were in cowboy heaven and didn't want to ever leave!

Those Marriott's know how to throw a party. They thought of everything down to every last detail and I am so glad we got to go. We arrived to a welcoming party that showered us with cowboy apparel. Hats and neckerchiefs were donned and we were off to enjoy the festivities.

There was great food all around. Games for the kids to play. American Indian dances and square dancing to watch and be inspired by. Seriously a great time. Hope we can go again next year.

The miniature horse rides were a favorite, the boys loved it for a few spins around. But McCall didn't want to get off that wagon. She was pretty sure that they were there just for her. The gentleman that was driving was happy to let her ride around with him over and over again while they boys were long gone getting into a little mischief elsewhere. I don't even know how many rides she took. We finally lured her away with pink sand - who would have thought.

The boys spent half the afternoon trying to learn to rope and they finally got it down - they could rope that face steer all afternoon - over and over again. Grandpa Gulbranson would be proud and they could probably do it to a real steer now - if it were dead and laying there real still. But they did get the basics down and it was fun to watch them put their minds to it and stick it out.

The sheer joy of finally getting that rope around those horns. This boy was so proud of himself.

I showed of my calf tying skills- which I didn't know existed! But I hogtied those two boys together quick as a flash and they couldn't get out. Wish I had thought of it earlier in the day and I wouldn't have been so exhausted from running after four kids!

The boys all build pinewood derby cars and participated in races. They were not impressed when their sisters thrown together and pink to boot, derby car beat theirs. She didn't care, she just wanted her car back.

What a fun day in beautiful country surrounded by great people. This day made me miss the mother land, the ranch, the cows, the hay, the tractors, my family - I loved every minute of it.

We ran into this rowdy crew up at the ranch. Elders who knew how to rope and ride and were happy to teach anyone who wanted - I hate to say that my boys monopolized their time, but as it turns out they did. But we felt like we deserved it - see that handsome cowboy second to the left? Well that is Elder Davie - he is from our Daybreak ward and he is (was) a great elder. This was the last time we saw him in the mission and now he is back home with his family after two great years in one of the best missions on earth. We miss him around these parts, but they are so happy to have him back home! Send us another one!

Jack-o-lanterns

2011-11-15T21:04:00.000-05:00

We must include the yearly jack-o-lantern carving that took place at our place. The boys are getting old enough to do most of their own carving - can I just say that is my favorite part of them getting bigger? It may be the only part I like ...

We had fun of course. The sad thing is not having a "Y" pumpkin this year. I nearly did it, but was to tired and decided without our neighbors and friends to deface it, hide it or decorate it in Ute apparel, it just wasn't as fun. Everyone here thinks we really like Yale and are graduates from there - sometimes I'm tempted not to correct them. But then if I spoke they would know immediately anyway ... it's a real dilemma.

Fall 2011 in Virginia

2011-11-15T21:00:00.000-05:00

I am absolutely in love with Virginia - I can see why people were willing to brave the seas, the illnesses, the depravity and utter unknown to live here. This really is one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Pumpking Patch 2011

2011-11-15T20:56:00.000-05:00

I have been a slacker these past few months, with little time to post and computer troubles that are ailing me I have fallen behind. But I think most of that is behind me, at least for the moment! I vow to catch up!

We visited a "local" farm last month to select our pumpkins and pick some apples so I could bottle apple pie filling - oh it is so yummy!

The kids were excited to go, even though we were literally there for 20 minutes and we were losing daylight quickly. They chose their pumpkins quickly from the few that were left, yes I procrastinated just about as long as I could on this annual tradition. Every time I thought I would be able to go something came up and it kept getting pushed back. But finally we headed out to the farm. It was so beautiful. Even the drives on the freeways are beautiful out here, the autumn leaves and foliage all turning different colors are stunning and I can't help but marvel at the scenery and it continually reminds me that God is real and that he must really love us to give us all this beauty.

McCall was thrilled to find a pumpkin just her size that she could actually hold all by herself. She was the first to pick hers out. The boys had specifications that were very important - they had to be BIG!

Grandma was in town with us and graciously went with me to help with crowd control. Only we were the only ones there right before closing time, in the middle of the week and so close to Halloween - I may try to do that again next year!

We found this sign right as we were leaving, it is meant for farm accidents, accidents picking apples, accidental vehicle dents, etc. But as it was located right outside the bathrooms, we found it fitting to pose right before the boys used the facilities before heading home. They are a bunch of clowns - but I'll keep them!

Family Pictures

2011-11-04T19:55:00.001-04:00

We had our family pictures taken out in Maryland and a beautiful farm. It was awesome - at least once we got there it was. The location was only 30 miles from our house so I left an hour and 45 minutes before our appointment because I was sure that would be ample time. Traffic was the worst I have ever seen it and it took us 2 and a half hours to get there! I was biting my fingernails, we were literally running out of daylight and I knew we would have a very limited amount of time to get our session done. Thankfully the kids were on their best family picture behavior and we were able to do it all in 25 minutes. With only 25 minutes I was thrilled with how they turned out. Phew!

Arlington

2011-11-04T15:33:00.000-04:00

Arlington National Cemetery is absolutely beautiful, inspiring, humbling and reverent. I absolutely loved it and can't wait to return. This will be a must see for any visitors coming to DC.

The cemetery sits on Robert E. Lee's estate. General Lee turned down President Lincoln's invitation to lead the Union troops after the state of Virginia decided to secede from the union. He was then made General of the Confederate Army. Lee was then regarded as disloyal by most of the Union officers and his property became a popular burial ground for Union dead. Lee never returned to Arlington.

The Tomb of the Unknowns is guarded day and night, rain or shine, hurricane or blistering heat by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment. This guard has been maintained since July 2, 1937. Never has it been left unattended. It is considered an honor to be a guard here, the requirements are immense, and only a few are chosen each year. Everyone should take the opportunity to attend the changing of the guard, it was really neat.

JFK's memorial was pretty inspiring here to. I pretty much love this place.

Mr. Smith goes to Washington ...

2011-11-04T15:12:00.000-04:00

and he brought his family!

We were so excited to have Matt, Lisa and the kids come to visit for a long weekend. We have been friends forever - at least I think it has been that long! We love getting together and though several moves have spread us out over the years we still are able to see the Smith's. I have to say though, I am not happy at all that the kids are growing up so quickly. Kiana is as tall as her mom, and both her and Katy are way smarter than me. Tanner and Gage are two peas in a pod, watch out women of the world (in about 20 years), they actually took the time to compare girlfriends and share tips. AWESOME! McCall and Keilya just loved playing and catching rides on their daddy's shoulders. It was a great trip and so good to visit. Not sure when the last time I stayed up until 3:30 am just visiting and catching up. Oh how I miss those Smith's. Perhaps we will be Chicago bound soon to make a visit.

I feel like I must point out that Lisa is tiny so tiny that I look huge, larger than I really am, but I do dwarf her, so that part is real.

These two are hilarious together. They warmed right up to one another and enjoyed every second together. They were a hoot and I think they should have been brothers!

The two "babies" of the families. Maybe in 30 years there will be a picture of them just like the one of Lisa and I above. If so, I'm going to tell McCall to sit down and try to look smaller :)

Thanks for coming out to visit Smith's, we thoroughly enjoyed you and all the fun we had!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-03T23:20:00.000-04:00

Another successful Halloween

They are already planning for next year.

Right now, we are slated to be Lord of the Rings characters ... YIKES!

Trick or Treating at the Senate

2011-11-03T21:46:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween!

To start things off we headed into the city to join with the staff and their children trick or treating through the office. Each of the employees had treats to share with the kids. Some had decorated their offices and really got into the spirit of things. It was quite fun. The kids loved it as many of the staff gave out "whole" candy bars! I guess when you know exactly how many kids will be coming it is easier to do that. Or, it just may be that many of the *single* guys forgot about it and ventured down to the vending machines in the basement just minutes before the children arrived. Either way, the kids loved it and will probably think that they should have that kind of treatment each time they visit the office from now on.

Gage was Flash - appropriate since he is now training to be the strongest man in the world and by his reports, he is already half way there. Way to go Gage!

Audrey and Lily were super hero girls and played their parts very well. They had the best posing for pictures!

Quite a coincidence that most of the kids were dressed up as super heroes. Perhaps they also feel the need to save America from it's current condition.

Senator Lee of course had treats to hand out to the kids, mixed in with a few Canadian jokes, he's good like that. Only I'm not sure that the foreign relations committee would appreciate them as much as we do.

Connor decided this year that he was to big and cool to dress up with all of us as super heroes, apparently those are "baby costumes and he would rather wear a tutu." I was tempted to grant his wish or call him on his bluff. But the tears got to me and I relented. He chose to be an Angry Bird. Good choice on his part. All the middle school girls were commenting on his costume the entire night while out trick or treating - he enjoyed it, to say the least.

This little girl loved the camera. And the camera loved her. Everywhere we took McCall in her costume people stopped to admire her, it was fun and she loved telling people that she was "Wonder Woman, except I'm modest."Fun times had by all.

A Visit from the McCoy's

2011-10-13T13:12:00.000-04:00

Brad and Tara and the boys came for a visit!

The weather was perfect - well kind of. Depends if you like monsoon rains for the first few days, followed by super humidity and 80 degrees in late September!

So we braved the elements and were soaked between museums and such.

Having our umbrellas didn't help all that much when we had 6 boys trying to hold them over our heads.

Let's just say, they need to get taller really quick!

We visited the Bureau of Engraving and Printing where they print money.

It was a really quick tour, only about 45 minutes, but I think that was the perfect time for kids. They loved seeing all the money come off the printer, get cut and banded together ready for the banks. I just wondered if the people who work there get strip searched daily before heading home? Not a job I would want, the searcher that is, making the money might be cool for a few days.

How tall are you in $1 bills?

We then hit up Gettysburg. Visiting the museum there and driving past the battlefields and cemeteries. It is such a beautiful place. One day I'm going to go back without kids and shop at the antique stores, secretly I wish I could wear the vintage clothing and have a girdle on with a huge hoop skirt, I'm pretty sure I could hide at least 20 pounds in one of those things!

The kids especially loved the gift shop and enjoyed dressing up in hats and playing with the guns. Why do we even bother paying the museum entrance fee when we could go to the bookstore for free?

We of course had to get our picture taken with our good friend Abe Lincoln, I don't think he ever saw this coming, what a group converging right on his lap!

And this boy, man is he getting big. I remember going to the hospital to meet him, we brought pizza and he didn't even eat any. But now he is 11 and a pretty nice kid to boot, and he eats tons of pizza! Stop growing Braden!

And this girl was spoiled rotten, again, by uncle Brad. I'm pretty sure her middle name should have been "Lip Balm" because it's all she wants all the time and her uncles are very happy to indulge her, constantly. That is not making my job very easy! She can't understand why mom always says no, but all the men in her life always say yes, except Gage. He is not swayed by the sweet smile and the puppy eyes and the crocodile tears.

We had a great time with you McCoy's. Let's do it again, only there will be one more of you by then! Tara was a good sport and trooped all around the state in her pregnant state - now if only she'd find out if that were a little pink or blue peanut in that belly we would all be happy :)

I'm in trouble ...

2011-10-13T10:50:00.000-04:00

This little girl is such fun.

She is perplexing.

She is genuine.

She is emotionally diverse - a phrase borrowed from a friend!

She is sweet and can be sour.

But when I get the camera out this is what I get.

All smiles, sweetness and innocence.

How will my mother, who rarely gets to see her, ever believe me when I say she is anything but what these pictures show?

No matter.

The girl is such a joy and a pleasure.

We love her to pieces.

Did You Know?

2011-10-11T12:01:00.000-04:00

Did you know ....

That I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints? Most people refer to us as "Mormons", only that is a nickname given to us because we believe in the Book of Mormon.

Yes, I do believe in the Book of Mormon, which testifies of Jesus Christ. I also believe in the Bible, which prophesies of Christ, records his birth, his ministries, his life and teachings, his death and resurrection.

Yes, I believe in Jesus Christ, with all my heart and soul. I know He lives now, I know he lived and died for me, and you, and for every child of God that we may all live again. I read daily from the scriptures, and renew my faith in Jesus Christ each time.

I believe in the same Jesus Christ that you do. I believe he was born of Mary, in a stable in Bethlehem. I know He is the Son of God. I know he taught and lived the gospel setting an example for us to live by. I know He loved all people, even those who refused to believe Him, those who mocked Him, those who persecuted and crucified Him. I know He loves all of God's children, no matter our station, our choices, our mistakes or failures. He loves us and I love Him.

Jesus Christ is my Savior and Redeemer. But not mine alone, He is the Savior of the world. He is not a respecter of persons. While in the Garden of Gethsemane He atoned for ALL sins, of ALL people, of ALL religions. He does not offer this gift to some or an elite few, it is a gift available to all people - all that have ever lived here on earth. He loves us all equally.

Yes, it hurts and is extremely frustrating when there are those who want to diminish my faith for whatever reason. Those who want to claim that they know what I do and do not believe in. Yes, our faith differs from many in specific doctrines, as all religions do. But I KNOW that I believe in Jesus Christ. He is my exemplar, my friend, my Savior, my Redeemer. I know He LOVES me, unconditionally, but with that, I also KNOW He loves you to, and every individual on earth. Even those who condemn, judge and persecute.

The gospel of Jesus Christ gives me hope. It can give us all hope.

I love my Savior, Jesus Christ, and I BELIEVE in Him.

If you have questions about what we believe in please do not hesitate to ask. I am happy to share what I believe. You can visit www.mormon.org to have any questions answered, contact me directly or attend a local congregation at any time - all are welcome.

I know many of us differ in our beliefs and I believe my life is richer and more full because of my friends from many faiths who have shared their beliefs with me and who show each day how to live a Christ like life. Thank you for showing me how to be a better person and for adding to my faith in Jesus Christ because of your example and your way of living. Thank you.

The Lone Girl - (she may be bipolar!)

2011-10-04T21:43:00.000-04:00

This girl of mine ... I sure do love her. But most days I am left utterly confused as what to do with her. She spends her days alternating between laughing hysterically and crying uncontrollably. I don't know what or where the off/on switch is. One moment she is fine, then the next in a puddle of her own tears. Other times she will be crying, only to start laughing and talking the very next breath.

And the clothes, let's not even go there. How many times can a girl change in one day? And what 2 year old is so concerned that they match all the time, from hairbows to shoes. The girl has issues.

But we love her, even with all her "bipolar" tendencies.

My Boys

2011-10-04T21:37:00.000-04:00

When Michelle was in town we spent a few minutes at the Jefferson Memorial. The boys are getting used to me telling them to pose for a picture. Gage leaned up against this column and called me to take his picture. Connor and Tate followed suit. I love these three boys, I can't imagine life without them - although, I think it would involve less laundry and more boredom.

A Secret Visitor

2011-10-04T21:19:00.000-04:00

Look who came to visit us!!

Michelle surprised us, well most of us, with a visit that only lasted 30 hours. But we packed a lot into that 30 hours and loved our time together. The kids were so excited to have Aunt Michelle here, especially after McCall got over the fact that she had NOT brought MaKenzie. Plus she left them M&M's just like her Aunt Kay used to do. She is working hard for the "favorite aunt" title!

We ran around DC and were lucky to have gorgeous weather. We hit all the monuments, two of them were even new to us. The Jefferson and the new Martin Luther King Jr. memorials were finally open so we visited those. I loved them!

We also went on a tour of the Capitol, our first time going with a Capitol tour guide instead of a staff member. It was kind of nice, the kids had headphones so they could hear so much better and paid attention pretty well. Every once in awhile they would take their headphones off to tell Aunt Michelle something else that they knew about the Capitol, I think in a few more months they may be able to give the tour themselves. It helps that they have been on at least 8 tours!

Michelle and the kids are standing at the center of the Capitol, it is rumored that if you rub your foot on the star you will have good luck. So we all took our turns basking in the good luck star. It has been rubbed so much that it is concave!

Thanks to Caleb and Nicole for bringing Michelle along, it pays to have friends that are pilots. At least I think it would, I imagine it would. I think I may need a new career.

I love the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, it is amazing. So many of his great thoughts and quotes are written there and it is very inspiring to go. I would recommend this to anyone coming into DC.

Thanks for coming to visit us Michelle, we LOVED having you!! Please come again soon and make sure to bring the rest of the family or we will have rioting on our hands!

Our Very Own "Night at the Museum"

2011-10-04T21:03:00.000-04:00

Every once in awhile the Senate and Congress host a Congressional Family Night.

Sometimes at the zoo, sometimes it's an ice cream social, sometimes ...

It's a family night out at the museum!

This was so much fun, to spend a few hours in the American History Museum after hours.

Great food, fun exhibits, activities, etc.

The kids were enamored with R2D2. They spent most of their time following him around!

So while R2D2 was babysitting, the girls headed upstairs to check out the first lady's dresses.

Pretty cool, glad that my dress isn't sitting next to Nancy Reagan, man she was TINY!

I came back to this.

I'm thinking of getting one of my own and I may never have to parent again!

(Ryan was also with them, lest you think I abandoned my children)

Then we got to meet a bunch of past presidents. They had a little dialogue going on between them and then drifted through the crowd in character. I loved that all the boys knew who each president was and what they were known for during their time in office.

I love that history is coming alive for them.

Connor has decided that being funny in pictures is much more fun than behaving himself. One day I hope he will look back on this and think, "man I'm a bonehead!"

I'm already thinking that about him.

We got to meet Kermit and see Indiana Jones' hat and whip (outside of the case)! I felt like Toy Story when Stinky Pete gets out of his box! Out of the box! Can you believe it. We were allowed to play with stuff as long as we had some great latex gloves on.

It was a fun night and we really enjoyed ourselves.

Luray Caverns - a Labor Day Excursion

2011-10-04T15:16:00.000-04:00

We spent Labor Day in Luray, VA.

A tiny little town that draws thousands of visitors each year because of this:

These caverns are amazing! They were discovered in 1878 by five local men and a 13 year old boy.

They were simply stunning and open and HUGE!

We went on a tour that lasted an hour and we were walking underground that entire time.

Kind of made the old Nutty Putty caves looks small and scary - which in hind sight, they were!

I'm not sure Gage saw much of the caverns.

He has other interest it appears.

I couldn't pry Gage away from his little friend to join our family picture.

All the kids posing in front of the biggest formation found in the cave.

There is a "lake" inside the cavern. It is only a 20 inches at it's deepest. But because of the formations around it, it becomes a perfect mirror and it tricks your senses! Unbelievable!

Gage still staying with those he feels most loved by and comfortable with, girls!

Back to School 2011

2011-08-30T22:37:00.001-04:00

Welcome back to school McCoy boys!

The boys were excited to start school this year.

They each got the teachers they wanted - no small miracle considering how many teachers they are!

Connor - Grade 4

Mr. S - apparently he doesn't like or appreciate homework for his students, so he is a natural favorite teacher. Connor is thrilled, he shares the same homework philosophy!

It is also rumored, among the students, that he has a whoopie cushion in his desk.

Very cool for 9 year old boys, not so much for their mothers.

Gage - Kindergarten

Mrs. J - very cool because her name rhymes with Kick Buttowski.

I'm praying that is not brought up in the classroom or on the playground!

Thankfully Mrs. J has taught for 20 years and has encountered other fabulous children like Gage.

She will be keeled over laughing one moment and pulling out her hair the next.

Please say a prayer for Mrs. J.

Best part of school so far for Gage - riding the bus home.

Biggest let down - "there are sooooo many rules!"

Tate - Grade 2

Mrs. D -

Mrs. D does believe in homework, which bodes well with Tate, since that is his favorite thing about school.

Another plus, she is rumored to be the very nicest teacher in the school. She is kind and has high expectations from her students.

Tate is a great fit! He has high expectations of himself and is quite a kind boy himself.

Look at these handsome boys.

I'm afraid that we won't be paying out the cash Ryan has promised them this year.

He gives them $$ at the end of the school year if they went all year without being kissed.

So far our pocket books have shelled out money to Connor and Tate.

We will see what this year brings.

This girl won't know what to do without these 3 boys to spoil her and grant her every wish.

She is in for a few changes.

First day excitement - they were literally running to school.

But when they got to the front door there was a little hesitation.

But they pulled it off and braved the crowds.

I will miss these boys. I love them to pieces.

Best of luck this year.

Work hard and play plenty.

LOVE YOU!

{Megan & Chris}

2011-08-30T22:18:00.000-04:00

This adorable girl ...

really likes this cute boy ....

I have it on good authority that he loves her to.

So we had a big party to make the two into one.

And we loved it.

And we love them.

A lot of love going around.

There was also a lot of lipstick going around - mostly on McCall who kept sneaking into it.

While the ladies primped and prepped, I ventured downstairs to find this.

The poor groom waiting for his big moment and chumming it up with 8 kids.

Welcome to the family!

These two thought they would ham it up for the camera.

These three girls were excited to have flowers and be wearing pink.

McCall ran out of petals shortly into the walk down the aisle.

She paused to ask for a "refill".

Unfortunately, there were no refills to be had.

What a beautiful day and a beautiful start to a beautiful life together.

Congratulations Megan and Chris!

We love you!

Summer time fun -

2011-08-30T21:07:00.000-04:00

I don't know what this little girl is going to do without her constant side kicks around during school hours. She talks big and acts like she is excited to have "girl time" with mom. But when it comes down to it she has spent the last two days asking me every five minutes if it is time to pick up the boys yet. Only to pick them up and she won't let them in the door because it is "girls only"! What a tease!

But on to what this post is supposed to be about.

Our summer has come and gone and I have been absent in the blog-o-sphere.

I guess we were just having to much fun playing and travelling and playing and a little more playing. We just returned from a few weeks in Utah where we ran around like crazy getting everything in. But the best part was a wedding - yep, that's right, I got a new brother-in-law, which is probably good since a few of my old ones were getting, well ... old. But we will still keep them around to! More on that later.
We loved beautiful weather over the summer and we were lucky enough to enjoy heat and humidity, then heat and dry while we visited Utah. Ahhh, the joys. But for the first time in my life I had a tan - thanks to swim lessons at the pool each day and it being to hot and humid to do anything else. The kids enjoyed their "swimmers" tans, I guess they preferred them over the "farmers" tans that we all usually have.
So now I have some things to catch up, I can't promise that they will be in chronological order, because the truth is I don't think I can remember everything! But rest assured we had plenty of play time this summer and we {I} are looking forward to the "calm" and structure that school brings.
Bring it on!

The Last Seven Days

2011-07-30T11:14:00.000-04:00

I don't even know where the past week has gone. If I really think about it, I need to say I don't know where the last seven months have gone. How is time flying so quickly? I guess that is just how it goes, that's how I know I'm getting old!

But this last week has been a crazy, busy - but good, one.

Here is a run down of what we have all been up to this week.

Ryan - I wish I could tell you, only I haven't had a chance to really talk to him or see him this week. He has been involved in a few small political deals recently - he may have played a rather large role in the crafting of the Cut Cap Balance Act on the Senate side - did you hear of it? It turns out it took a lot of his time, only to have it tabled by Harry Reid (insert expletives here). They continue to argue on the debt ceiling so his hours continue to be long. We have seen very little of the guy, and we miss him!

Connor - He has become quite a fish lately. After completing a month of swim lessons he has become quite a good swimmer. He would have been even better, but he spent the majority of his practice time "picking up girls" - as he put it. There was a cute blond who swam just after him, so he spent his time swimming in the lanes just to impress her, only he would stop often to see if she was still watching. Where did that come from? I have since talked to him about age appropriate activities at the pool.

Tate - This boy actually WORKED at swimming! After his lessons, instead of staring at girls and stalking innocent blonds he swam laps. He swam and swam, then swam some more. He only stopped to get a drink and rest his arms. Yesterday he swam 15 laps! He is looking forward to swim team next year, while his brother is probably looking forward to the life guards. I love that boy and his determination.

I would like to think that both of the boys are somewhat like me. I really liked boys and I was real determined to make them like me. But instead, I think they take after their father, confident and hard working.

Gage - well Gage is up to his same old antics. He keeps me on my toes - I think I've been saying that about him for about 5 years now. Just today I took him out to do errands with me and he gave me an earful. He said, "Mom, did you know that the other kids don't like you very much? I thought you should know, they don't like you as much as I do. Do you think I should ground them from the xBox so only I can play it?"

This was followed up about a half an hour later by this little conversation. I gave him a kiss in the grocery cart, he quickly wiped it off and said, "good thing no one saw that mom or you would be arrested for kissing in public. That's illegal!"

McCall - McCall is busy being spoiled rotten. But during all of her spoiling she managed to be potty trained. I made a deal with her. I told her if she stopped using diapers that she could go to Aunt Megan's wedding and wear a pretty new dress. Apparently that's all that she needed, she will do just about anything to be a big girl. She has not had even one accident since she started, and it's been over a week. There is something about a tiny little bottom wearing little undies that is so stinking cute, add to that a little tan line and I just think she is so darned cute!

Our lives keep spinning madly on, but we are enjoying the ride.

2011 Congressional Baseball Game

2011-07-29T20:57:00.000-04:00

We are slowly learning about all the traditions and activities associated with Ryan's new job.

Some of the traditions are just plain old fun!

Like this one -

The Congressional Baseball Game.

Senators and Congressmen play a ball game on the Nationals field.

It's the Democrats vs. Republicans.

The boys were so excited to be at the baseball game!

They had big plans of catching fly balls and such.

Only those old men can't hit it out of the park :)

Each politician wears the uniform of their favorite team.

Some were MLB teams, others college teams.

It was fun to see them play.

We had so much fun with friends, who have become family out here.

We're so grateful for them!

Jamestown

2011-07-29T20:38:00.000-04:00

We made it down to Jamestown and loved it!

We learned so much and had so much fun.

This was the first settlement in America.

The hardships were immense, only 1 in 10 of those who sailed to what later became America lived.

It was the Indians who, in the end, saved the settlers and taught them how to survive.

Amazing people, amazing stories, amazing place.

The next time someone comes to visit us I think we take them here.

There was an Indian village - brilliant people really.

They made the very best with what they had and lived so much more comfortably than the settlers.

They knew what they were doing!

Here the kids learned the many uses for a deer.

They helped make a needle out of a bone, helped skin and tan a hide.

They were enthralled with the process.

McCall was only concerned with getting her picture taken.

She had no clue what was going on.

Gage loved the Indian huts - with the raised beds filled with furs.

He was pretty sure that Grandpa Gulbranson would LOVE the beds and could probably make his own.

Connor was excited to find a turtle shell and learn the many uses for it.

They were all excited to explore the ships - exact replicas of what the settlers sailed over on.

They did NOT look comfortable, roomy or exquisite.

No wonder so many didn't make it.

It was fun to try out all the armor.

It was heavier than they thought and not very comfy.

Turned out it wasn't the best costume.

But then the heavy lifting began.

The boys initially filled the water buckets all the way to the top.

They quickly changed their minds as soon as the yoke was placed on their shoulders.

Much to heavy for their liking.

Even without the additional load, it was still pretty over whelming.

In the mean time, McCall continued to pose and request that her picture be taken.

We had a wonderful time and can't wait to go back - but in the fall when it's cooler!

Spoiled - by brothers!

2011-07-29T19:19:00.000-04:00

This little girl is so spoiled by many.

We take her to the office and everyone goes crazy for McCall.

They give her gifts, lip balm, soda, gum, etc.

I go shopping with her and perfect strangers stop to talk to her and tell her she is so cute.

She takes it all in stride and knows she is the best thing to ever happen to this world.

But of all the places she is spoiled - at home she is the most!

And it's NOT by me!

The boys can't get enough of her.

They do anything she wants them to.

They give her anything she asks for.

They fawn over her and smother her with kisses, hugs and treats.

They sneak things for her.

Sympathize with her when she is told no.

They are ruining her - but I love that they are loving and protecting her.

It won't be long before she annoys them and this is all over.

I do worry that she will go to kindergarten and expect that all the kids - especially the boys - are supposed to love her and give in to all her wishes.

She's in for a big surprise, but not for a few years.

DC with Uncle Blake

2011-07-29T19:09:00.000-04:00

While Ryan wasted his time in his office, doing who knows what, Blake, the kids and I toured a little DC.

We started with Ryan's office, but that got boring, quickly!

So we headed to the Capitol. Which was much more interesting.

We found Brigham Young. He was excited to see us BYU alumni.

At least that's what I think he wanted to say.

McCall didn't like that Blake was getting in all the pictures and she wasn't.

She sat here and told me to take her picture.

Then we picked up Ryan and headed to see some monuments.

Gage of course dominated Blake's time and attention.

He does that.

Ryan got off the phone long enough for us to snap this shot.

But then he was back on soon enough. He was working on something - turns out.

Maybe you heard of it? More on that later.

"Old" Friends

2011-07-18T21:55:00.000-04:00

I love people. I always have and I'm sure I always will. I love friends, new and old and everything in between. People bring so much enrichment and emotion and pleasure into our lives. I have been pleasantly surprised at how many visitors we have had while living out here in the DC area. Many are on their way to work related conferences or seminars. Others are coming to visit the area and see all the many wonders of DC, while others actually came just to see us - or at least that is what I like to believe. Regardless, we have been greatly blessed by many friends and family who have made their way eastward over the last 7 months.
The most recent to visit us was Blake. We LOVE Blake - he is Uncle Blake around these parts and the kids absolutely adore him. He wrestles with the boys, snuggles with McCall, teases and jokes and tortures - just as an uncle should. We were so glad to have Blake here for a few days and we had several fun adventures with him.
It also turns out that our good friend Matt, and Kristen and family, live out this way now to. Just two hours south in Richmond. They arrived here 5 months before we did, so they are the resident experts! They have tenure here. So we all ventured down to the Richmond area to see what it had to offer and we were not disappointed. It was BEAUTIFUL. We can't wait to go back!

Hard to believe that 17 years, ummm, let's just stop there!

It's hard to believe that we all met 17 years ago! Is that possible?

Holy crap, I feel old now.

Well, I'm sure we all still look 18 ....

But look what has happened in 17 years ...

All these fun kids (lined up according to age).

Hannah, Connor, Katherine, Tate, Gage, Elizabeth, Olivia, McCall and Jonathan

We had a great time!

Thanks for having us!

Makeovers

2011-07-18T21:42:00.000-04:00

McCall and I both got makeovers this weekend.

Mine involved feet eating fish and was not entirely pleasant,

But it was unusual and strange. Not necessarily a good idea for a girl who hates to have her feet touched or tickled in any way. And they were not minnows - I'm sure a relative to piranhas. But I survived to live another day. However, I cannot yet post pictures - too traumatizing!

McCall just got to sit in my lap on Sunday evening to get her hair put in curlers and her nails painted.

She enjoyed every second of it.

And in the end declared herself beautiful.

I have to admit, I love this part of having a little girl. I think I have become more girly myself because of her. I wonder how long this will last though?

Family Photos in DC

2011-07-12T18:30:00.000-04:00

Our friend Scott was in DC for several weddings last month.

Between living in his car and shooting weddings he crashed at our place whenever it was convenient.

We met up with him in the city one night to do some family shoots at the Capitol.

The kids were in dandy moods - McCall was whining (big surprise).

Gage was not about to sit still for anything.

The older boys were "bored"!

I was roasting - it's hot here!

But it all turned out great.

I'm so pleased with how they turned out.

Scott is amazing!

Fourth of July - in our Nation's Capitol!

2011-07-07T20:55:00.002-04:00

The 4th of July in DC is absolutely FABULOUS!

We spent the afternoon on the lawn of the Capitol visiting with friends and eating delicious picnic food.

The crowds of people were amazing - we were told that there were "hundreds of thousands" of people there.

McCall loved the day.

She had her daddy to give her attention.

She had her friends to giver her attention.

She had the office staff to giver her attention.

And she had the film crew to give her attention.

It was heaven for her.

Gage was in heaven with an iPod and office interns to swing him around.

Not to mention all the candy.

McCall enjoyed passing out cookies to everyone.

I had fun laughing with people and at people.

A great past time of mine.

Stacy and Paul and family came with us.

We had so much fun - and her fabulous s'more brownies.

Can you believe that this bunch made it on camera?

PBS was filming the entire production and we made the cut :)

We were on the program at least 3 times that we saw.

The kids think they are pretty famous now.

But the most exciting part was getting the texts and phone calls for the next

several hours from friends and family who saw us on tv.

Made it feel like we were not so far away!

Gage wanted to be a GI Joe man, this is what he came up with.

Only, we never took any of these props with us.

So I'm not sure where he got them or how.

But it entertained him for a good hour!

Ryan was looking so cool in these patriotic sunglasses.

I'm pretty sure he is going to bring back the look.

This fella was there to play his banjo.

And I was this close to him - it was a little exciting.

The views were stunning.

Overall, WONDERFUL day.

We would recommend everyone do a fourth of July in DC.

And remember to invite us!

Fourth of July - Breakfast

2011-07-07T20:35:00.001-04:00

We had a 4th of July breakfast with our ward at 8:00 a.m.

The hope was that it would be cool at that time of day.

Well, it was not cool.

Within minutes of being outside - perhaps seconds - we all felt as if we had just gotten in a sauna.

But that did not deter us.

There was fun to be had and fabulous food to consume.

There was a pancake bar with 4 different kinds of pancakes.

Many toppings, fruit, etc.

It was a great start to a great 4th.

The only pictures I got were these.

I had to show how hot it was - McCall's hair was wet just from sitting and eating.

Gotta love the humidity!

A Capitol Fourth - Preview

2011-07-06T12:02:00.000-04:00

We were so lucky to be able to attend the Capitol Fourth at the Capitol.

We had fabulous seats and so much fun.

We also made it on national tv!

Several times!

You can watch it here.

We were on three times that we could find.

What a great time.

McCall has been telling people she is a rock star now.

The boys were just excited to be silly on national television.

So much fun!

Pictures to follow!

Canadian Quiz

2011-07-06T11:57:00.000-04:00

Just for fun on Canada day we got all dressed in appropriate red and white and headed into DC.

We stopped in at Ryan's office - which just happens to be a US Senator's office.

Said office just happens to be on the Foreign Relations Committee - specifically North America.

So I thought it was a good idea to introduce the office staff to a little bit of Canada.

We brought Smarties - a Canadian candy staple.

Pecan bars - it was the closest I could get to butter tarts.

I think Nanaimo Bars will be on the menu for next year.

And I gave them the following quiz - just to see how they are doing on their

Foreign Relations Committee assignment.

They passed!

Canadian Quiz

1. If a Canadian says they are going to Tim’s, or Timmies, where are they going?

2. In Canada, what is The Bloc?

       a. A television show

       b. A political party

       c. Biker Gang

       d. Dance Move

3. Canadians lowest bill is a $5. What are the one and two dollar coins called?

4. In what sport do you have a “bonspiel”, “rocks”, brooms and a “hammer”?

5. What is Poutine?

6. What is a winter cap or beanie called in Canada?

7. What is Canada’s favorite letter of the alphabet?

8. What is Canada’s national sport? (hint there are two, one for summer and one for winter)

9. Name 5 famous Canadians

Canada Day 2011

2011-07-06T11:50:00.000-04:00

We spent Canada Day doing what most Canadians do - just in another country.

We had so much fun with the Sorensen's watching fireworks and eating treats.

I thought it was particularly nice of the city of South Riding to do fireworks for us on Canada Day

This little girl was pretty sure the entire day was just for her.

Lily was good enough to show us how to relax at the end of a long day.

It was a great Canada day.

Now if we can just get the Canadian Embassy to invite us to their big party next year ...

Scout Camp

2011-07-06T11:39:00.000-04:00

4 Days of Excitement and Filth.

AKA - Scout Camp

Our troop sent 9 boys to scout camp this year, and I think they enjoyed every moment of it.

From the outset we found this beautiful "little" beetle.

I'm not a huge fan of bugs, but you have to admit, he's pretty!

Then there were water fights, ultimate frisbee, art classes.

Pint sized boys everywhere I looked.

And pint sized boy smells everywhere I went.

These pictures should put fear in every mother's heart.

BB Guns - all I could think was, "You'll shoot your eye out!"

But the protective glasses were worn and no eyeballs were lost in earning this belt loop.

The camp even provided lunch.

I haven't had a bologna sandwich since grade school, and you know what?

I haven't missed them!

Mormon Tabernace Choir - In Virginia and DC!

2011-06-24T12:27:00.000-04:00

We took the kids to see the Mormon Tabernacle Choir at Wolf Trap this past week.

They were astounding.

They sang beautifully and entertained the crowd with the dancing and jiving - a little different from your typical General Conference hymnal singing.

It was absolutely beautiful.

We had a great time picking out the 3 members of the choir that we know.

We were lucky enough to run into two of their spouses and catch up on our

old neighborhoods and wards.

We opted for the lawn tickets and enjoyed a picnic feast!

So many people from the office were there and we had a great and relaxing time.

The kids even enjoyed it.

I'm so impressed by this choir, orchestra and everyone who volunteers with them.

The fact that this is an entirely volunteer organization is so impressive to me.

I'm so grateful for so many people who will share their talents with others!

What a blessing.

They also participated in a flash mob in Williamsburg, VA - so much fun.

Go here to see their performance.

Odd Combination - Fantastic Night

2011-06-24T11:58:00.000-04:00

I had the most fantastic night with my good friend Ellen and her daughter Janessa.

We got to sit with this lady (and 150 other people, but who's counting?) ....

Former First Lady Laura Bush.

I absolutely adore her.

She is kind, sincere, unassuming, FUNNY, real, and a go-getter.

She is a great role model for women.

A sounding board, confident and counsellor to her husband.

She is one charming lady and I love her to pieces.

Afterwards we headed out and walked back to the Capitol.

It was a beautiful evening - one of the best in DC so far.

The fireflies were just starting to come out.

We headed to dinner over at 7th Hill for some real Italian pizza.

Ummmmm ....

DELICIOUS!!

How can you go wrong with Bacon on your pizza?

And everything fresh?

Not to mention the Nutella Calzone - go ahead and salivate because it was that delicious!

Then off to home where the fireflies were in fine form and illuminating the trees.

It looked like someone had strung blinking Christmas lights through all the trees.

I have never seen anything like it.

It made me feel not so bad about not seeing the Northern Lights.

I guess God made Southern Lights to - just in different form.

We live in a beautiful land, full of God's beautiful creations.

And amongst some of the most beautiful people.

I am grateful to love and know the people in my life.

Just a day of gratitude and graciousness really.

Thank you for today!

Field Guide Needed

2011-06-20T11:49:00.001-04:00

I am continually amazed at the beauty out here.

I think it makes up for the heat and humidity.

It is absolutely stunning to drive roads within the city and not know you are in the city

Everything is green and beautiful.

Wild flowers grow everywhere with more trees than you can count.

And all different kinds of trees - I have no idea what is what!

One of my favorites though are the Magnolia trees (above).

I had no idea how large those flowers really are.

Pictures don't do them justice.

But they are about the size of dinner plates.

Oh, and the smell - divine!

Boys Entertainment

2011-06-20T11:43:00.000-04:00

We visited Old Town Alexandria with Grandma and Grandpa.

The boys were not excited.

The complained when the park we took them to didn't have a playground.

They neglected to see the water and rocks and sticks while they complained.

The next thing we knew they were complaining when it was time to leave!

The adults pulled up a park bench looking over the Potomac River.

The boys were instantly drawn to the water.

They found mounds of driftwood and rocks to throw in and entertained themselves for over an hour.

They were in boy heaven.

Watching the geese land and throwing objects in the water.

Eventually we had to leave to get ice cream.

And our day ended in a giant thunder and lightning storm that we are starting to get

used to here in Virginia.

Virginia knows how to put on a good storm.

We love it!

Our "Not so Photogenic Girl"

2011-06-20T11:36:00.001-04:00

Our little girl does not like to hold still for the camera.

She is difficult to pose.

She has her own ideas of how to pose.

They don't always work out so great.

So Grandpa joined in to help out,

It seems to have helped.

But now that he is not around, I'm not sure how we are going to fare.

Perhaps another trip is in order?

Lake Anna

2011-06-15T22:29:00.000-04:00

In central Virginia I felt at home.

(Besides the heat and humidity of course.)

But along the small country roads were sights like this ...

and this ...

surrounded by fields with tractors in them.

I was thrilled.

Then we saw this ...

I had to get a picture, even if my Dad never checks my blog.

But it was a little bit of home for me.

And the lake ... it was beautiful.

The kids loved the water, it was warm ... I've never swam in a lake that was warm.

It was pleasant!

The boys would have stayed on this raft for a week.

On and off, on and off, repeat.

It was the most relaxing time we have had in months.

Maybe the last two years.

And we loved every minute of it.

Montpelier - James Madison

2011-06-15T22:19:00.000-04:00

Another amazing estate.

This time Montpelier - the home of James and Dolly Madison.

Another amazing man - with an equally amazing wife.

It is so impressive to be able to visit these places where the founding fathers lived and worked.

After visiting Montpelier I really want to learn more about Dolly Madison.

She was one impressive woman.

When Madison ran for president his opponent was quoted as saying,

"If I only had to win against James Madison I would be President.

But I had to beat Dolly Madison, and that is impossible."

This statue is supposed to be true to size of the Madison's.

Both quite small - but especially true for James Madison.

We were allowed to go on top of the house, it was beautiful.

Monticello - Thomas Jefferson's Home

2011-06-15T22:08:00.001-04:00

Monticello.

One of the most beautiful places in Virginia.

Thomas Jefferson.

One of the most brilliant men in history.

Together they are amazing.

The day we went to Monticello was blazing hot and humid.

95' and about 75% humidity.

It was hot, sticky and muggy.

But still beautiful.

Gardens at Monticello.

View of the valley from one side of the home.

This is the back yard and it was fabulous.

Flowers everywhere.

Beautiful huge trees.

Birds are everywhere!

Thanks for going with us Grandma and Grandpa!

It's always fun to discover and explore something new.

Come back soon!

Wolf Trap and "The President's Own"

2011-06-15T21:58:00.000-04:00

There is a great National Park here.

It's called Wolf Trap.

And it's a performing arts park.

It is FABULOUS!

We spent an evening at a Memorial Day concert and fireworks.

For FREE!

And it was FABULOUS!!

My mom would be jealous.

She probably has more patriotic music than anyone I know.

The performers were the "President's Own Marine Band"

AMAZING!

We loved the music - even the boys.

Grandma and Grandpa were there with us.

Grandma even made a new friend and now knows everything there is to know about quilting!

I think she has a sign on her that says -

"Please tell me your life story, especially all the trials."

The kids especially loved the xylophone.

They are considering playing that - but the drums are still high on their list!

The fireworks were great and it was an absolutely gorgeous night.

So glad we did this - it may be our new Memorial Day tradition!

We get to go back to Wolf Trap next week with a bunch of our friends.

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir is coming and we are so excited!!

Mount Vernon - with Grandma and Grandpa

2011-06-15T21:50:00.000-04:00

This was our best trip to Mount Vernon so far.

There were a lot more "staff" dressed up and wandering the grounds.

They were playing all sorts of time period games on the grounds and the boys were able to join in.

We enjoyed a little picnic overlooking the Potomac.

Measured a few of the huge trees there.

A rare quiet and still moment for Gage.

I'm going to blow this up and look at it every day to remind myself -

He can be so cute and quiet and still - for small moments.

We had an overall fabulous time.

We love Mt. Vernon.

Confused Princess

2011-06-07T10:18:00.000-04:00

This little girl thinks she is a princess.

(Thanks to her sweet cousin MaKenzie she can now dress like one.)

No one told her that princesses do not bear arms.

But she can't help herself in a house full of boys.

She must defend herself.

And it appears she must also shoot the poor bunnies out the window.

She is figuring out the Nerf Guns - she loads them up and then brings them to me -

And asks me to "cock it Mom".

Then runs off to find a victim.

Usually a willing brother.

Her confusion extends beyond the gown/pistol dilemma.

Yesterday McCall and I headed into the city, just the two of us.

We were bringing some treats to the office for the Senator's birthday party.

I pulled up just outside of the Capitol to snap this picture on my phone.

She got VERY excited and exclaimed,

"Oh, Mommy, look!"

"It's the castle that my Daddy works in!"

She must really think her Daddy is Prince Charming.

(I know I do!)

She was in her element at the birthday party.

She had 40+ adults all clamoring to hold her, give her treats, coddle her and all together spoil her.

She entertained and charmed the Senators and staff and she has no clue.

It was a great afternoon.

**sorry for the poor quality of pictures - phone pics!

Findings in Virginia

2011-06-07T10:09:00.000-04:00

We just had Tom and Lani out to visit us in Virginia.

It was WONDERFUL!

After dropping them off at the airport I had a car full of crying children.

That's the downside I suppose.

But we had a wonderful time.

We were able to see and experience a few new things while they were here.

Here are a few of them:

Gallon sized jars of pickled pigs feet.

At the local (west/central Virginia) grocer.

Not only were these available, but they must be a popular item because they were taking up

valuable real estate as an end cap - and stacked 5 foot high!

This one really got me.

Were people waiting for this so they had to advertise that NOW they finally have the coveted gator meat?

I thought that was illegal.

You should know that this was also on the end cap of a grocery store -

Virginia's finest!

What I didn't get a picture of was their "fresh meat" section.

We were able to dig through and find some decent hamburger.

But it was slim pickings.

Too bad we were not in the market for some "fat back" - because there was a plethora of that!

No joke people!

There were different cuts and flavors and seasonings to choose from.

Who would have thought?

I should point out that my dad would have LOVED this grocery store.

Straight out of his childhood - minus the gator.

In hindsight, I should have looked for possum and squirrel.

**more to come on our adventures with Tom and Lani!

New Career Path

2011-05-18T16:18:00.000-04:00

While eating our lunch today Gage informed me that he no longer wants to be an NFL player.

Really?

Why?

What has swayed you?

I'm hoping for bigger aspirations - doctor, dentist, scientist ...

Nope.

He found out that if you get hurt or injured you have to sit in an ice bath.

He hates to be cold.

And if that wasn't bad enough ..

"Your coach and teammates watch you and you are {naked}!"

Both good reasons not to be an NFL player.

Weekend of BESTS!

2011-05-17T17:22:00.000-04:00

BESTS!

Ryan and I had the BEST time in New York City.

We were with the BEST people.

Eating the BEST food.

Enjoying the BEST that NY has to offer.

It kind of turned out to be a foodie trip.

We wandered the streets of NYC and made our plans around meal times.

It was most enjoyable.

Brent conquered his small sandwich.

I ordered something small off the menu - so I could have dessert.

Unfortunately it was this huge egg salad sandwich, which was delicious.

And I still had to have dessert.

Ryan ordered this small plate of ribs.

And Luci had this tiny piece of fabulous cheesecake -

We all had to help her finish it.

We stayed at Times Square.

Enjoyed watching the crazy people and street performers.

Chinatown, Little Italy, Central Park, the Met, Ground Zero Museum.

It was all so much fun and I can't wait to do it again!

And thanks to Brent and Ryan who let us do all the things we wanted to do!

Great Urban Race DC

2011-05-17T16:29:00.000-04:00

I just completed the Great Urban Race DC 2011

With these fun ladies!

Myself, Stacey, Natalie and Corinne.

Oh so much fun.

We were given a sheet of clues that sent us running all over the city to complete tasks.

We ended up in several bars in DC - probably the only way I'll see the bars of DC.

We had several challenges to do.

They ranged from doing a yoga course to trying different Indian sauces and identifying them.

From math problems to asking strangers to do a congo line with us.

We had so much fun and I can't wait to do it again next year.

The question is - which destination next time?

My thoughts - Boston? Toronto? Vancouver? Salt Lake?

If you get a chance to do one of these races in your area over the summer I would encourage you to!

You won't regret it!

And how did we do?

We were team 151 of 375 teams.

Not too shabby, and loads of fun!

Gettysburg

2011-05-03T12:27:00.000-04:00

This is a must see.

Gettysburg is fantastic.

I am so grateful for the brave men who fought here and for the local residents who banded together to care for the wounded - numbered in the thousands.

The museum is worth the time and $ to go to.

When I went a few years ago with my mom and sisters I fell in love with the place.

Only I have to go back just to go to the antique shops and darling cafes.

Oh, and the drive there ... GORGEOUS!

This is Gage's favorite President.

He lovingly refers to him as his friend Abe.

Perhaps he was precocious child as well?

Flat Stanley made the trip with us.

We will be sad to have to send him back to his school in Utah.

Thanks Halle for letting us have him as a guest for the past few weeks.

He has one trip left in him - New York City!

Then back to Salt Lake City.

Mount Vernon in April ... Lovely!

2011-05-03T08:27:00.000-04:00

We love Mt. Vernon and were so excited to take Jessica and James.

Of course, Flat Stanley made the trek with us as well.

He has been to a lot of fun places.

Our first stop was to visit Lady Washington.

She was absolutely charming to visit with.

She told us many stories about her and the General's life.

She allowed for any question.

Connor waited very patiently to ask something.

"How long was General Washington gone from Mt. Vernon during the Revolutionary War? And who took care of his farms while he was away?"

SIX YEARS! He was gone for 6 years! Only stopping in once as the army was literally marching right past.

Wow. That is committment.

His cousin took care of things while he was away.

But no one took care of things like the General and everything was in disrepair when he returned and had to start again from square one.

The grounds are absolutely beautiful.

Trees that George Washington planted himself are still there.

He kept immaculate records, with detail about everything.

Which tree he planted where and when.

Each field and which crops it had been planted in for how many years.

The rotation schedule for crops.

Which slave had which blanket, etc.

He didn't miss a thing.

We decided to eat there before leaving and a fun thing happened.

Tate finally lost his very first tooth!

He is almost done first grade and his first tooth just came out!

He told me afterwards that his goal is to lose all his teeth at Mt. Vernon.

Oh, the grand dreams of youth.

Monuments by Day and Night

2011-05-03T08:10:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite parts of DC are the monuments and memorials.

It's just so fun to be right here where there is so much American history.

We took Jessica and James to visit a few of the monuments.

The first was FDR - It's one of my favorites just because of the park like feel.

It was raining pretty good - so we left the kids with Ryan in the car and grabbed the umbrellas.

Only, one wasn't working so well.

So Jessica made the best of the situation.

The Lincoln Memorial is just so impressive and surprisingly reverent given the amount of people there at any given time. I love this one.

WWII Memorial. It was so dark and hard to get a good picture.

But we were able to find Utah and take a moment to remember.

Washington - amazing.

I love this man, he's one of the first I want to meet in heaven.

All of us at the Lincoln Memorial with the Washington Monument behind us.

I must say that Jessica and James chose the perfect time of year to come.

The weather was beautiful and not too hot.

The kids just happened to be on spring break so we were able to go anywhere and everywhere with absolutely no schedule to follow.

What a great time.

Family Comes to Town!

2011-05-02T21:10:00.000-04:00

We were so lucky to have Jessica and James come to visit us over spring break!

We had so much fun and did as much as we could fit in.

It was wonderful.

Be prepared for another onslaught of pictures!

The first day we visited the Senate and the Capitol.

We had a great tour from Senator Mike Lee, UT (R).

Ha, I've always wanted to do that.

We were not allowed camera's past this point.

So we had to get a picture of Flat Stanley going into the Senate Chambers.

Once inside we got a tour of the chambers and an education on the history of the Senate floor.

The boys favorite part was the "candy desk".

Years ago one Senator kept candy in his desk for everyone.

To this day, the member who inherits that desk keeps it full of candy for anyone on the Senate floor.

Then we had to find the Brigham Young statue.

You see, Flat Stanley comes from a UTES household and he is going back a BYU fan.

Learning truth does that to a person, flat or not.

McCall was so happy to have Aunt Jessica again.

She always has a purse full of goodies to rifle through.

Ahh, to be spoiled.

Jessica and James in the old Senate Chamber.

Very cool room, with a very old history.

Then it was off to the National Archives.

I still get emotional seeing the Declaration of Independence and The Constitution.

We are a very blessed nation.

White House Easter Egg Roll

2011-05-02T20:55:00.000-04:00

We were able to attend the White House Easter Egg Roll this year.

We were so excited to be able to go.

I had visions in my head of my beautiful children strolling through the White House Gardens.

Taking our time and getting gorgeous photos of the kids in the azaleas and dogwoods.

Oh it was going to be grand.

And it was, only in a different way.

Had I known how hot and crowded it was going to be once we got inside I would have done more pictures outside while waiting in line.

But - this is what we got just trying to pass the time.

The day was a balmy 90 degrees with about 70% humidity.

And over 30,000 people participated.

Of course only 6,000 per session.

YIKES!! I thought I would lose a child or two!

I love these socks!

And it was the only part of Gage not being a goof.

McCall was elated to meet the Easter Bunny.

But refused to go anywhere near him without Daddy.

Flat Stanley also got to meet him. We have loved having Flat Stanley with us!

The boys were not thrilled to take pictures.

They wanted to be off in search of eggs and participating in all the events.

McCall somehow hurt her leg that morning and couldn't walk a step.

Getting her to stand for a picture was difficult.

But it all turned out just great and the kids had a blast.

Flat Stanley enjoyed his trip to the White House.

But the best part of the day was the very last thing we did.

The boys REALLY wanted to play basketball on the White House basketball court.

So they did.

They were the very last group to be able to.

And they were elated!

Each of them took part in a shooting game.

And guess what?

Connor won for his entire group of 30 kids!

And because they were the last group for the day, they each got to take home an NBA basketball.

Don't worry I checked - they were a gift from the NBA - not a government bailout!

Poor Gage was so little that he couldn't even get the ball to the basket.

The NBA staff tried to help him out.

But to no avail.

But no worries, as the kids in line started laughing at him his big brother Tate straightened them all immediately.

"Hey, that's my little brother. He's way smaller than you and he is really good at lots of things. Don't laugh at him. That's being rude."

I was proud of him. Even though I tried to tell him they just thought he was cute.

Tate didn't agree and insisted on defending his brother.

Then I wanted to get some pictures of McCall in the azaleas.

But she had had it and wouldn't cooperate one bit.

But at least I got one of these adorable shoes!

What a fun time.

I hope the kids will always remember this.

Easter Egg Hunt #1

2011-05-02T20:36:00.000-04:00

We had so much fun with Jessica and James here - more to come on that.

Easter was so much fun to spend with family.

McCall enjoyed the hunt - at least until she found an egg and opened it.

Then she was done.

The first one she had found was split open and the jelly beans had spilled out.

She quickly snatched up the jelly beans and with her little hands full was eating them as quickly as she could.

I went to get a picture.

I told her - "oh look, the Easter Bunny pooped."

She promptly threw down the jelly beans and moved on to another egg.

Oops.

Tate was all about the quantity of eggs.

Connor was happy to fill his basket then share with his sister.

Gage had a hard time deciding which way to run - he'd pick up a few in the stash then move to the next one.

Shouting all the while for his brothers to slow down!

James and Ryan just looked on.

They knew they could pilfer the kids baskets without any effort.

So there they sat.

Easter 2011

2011-05-02T20:28:00.000-04:00

Our 2011 Easter

In pictures

McCall ended up in more pictures for many reasons.

1. She is more fun to take pictures of because she like the camera.

2. She holds still longer than her brothers.

3. I really love pink and Grandma G. sent her this beautiful little dress for the occassion.

4. She matched the flowers on our tree so well.

White House Spring Garden Tour

2011-04-12T13:08:00.000-04:00

We were fortunate enough to get tickets to the White House Spring Garden Tour.

It was absolutely gorgeous and so much fun to be able to walk all around the beautiful gardens.

Of course I took a few pictures.

And to make it even more fun, we had our friend Flat Stanley with us from our good friend Halle!

Here is Flat Stanley making a friend in the Marine Corps Band.

Rick, Janessa and Ellen. Thanks for going with us!

I think I would like to have this view out my back window.

Oval Office and West Wing

First beehive in the White House gardens.

It was an absolutely gorgeous day, surrounded by gorgeous trees and flowers and the like.

Spring + Day off school = Smithsonian Zoo

2011-04-12T12:29:00.000-04:00

Recently we had a VERY warm day here.

It was 80 degrees!

And a little humid after all the rain.

The kids had the day off of school so we went to the zoo.

I sometimes feel like I live in a zoo ...

But that is for another post.

Seriously it was hot!

We got a little sun burned.

But we had a lot of fun.

There were some great exhibits.

The big cats, gorillas and, surprisingly, the spider exhibits were GREAT!

We will definitely be going back.

I enjoy a good laugh!

2011-03-29T21:24:00.001-04:00

Last July we had family pictures done.

As I was perusing them I found this one.

I think it's my favorite.

Mostly because of the memories involved.

I especially love Lani's face here, shocked yet again at her wonderful and funny daughter-in-laws!

I miss laughing with all you girls.

But I laughed with you tonight as I saw this!

Thanks for the laugh.

Twins?

2011-03-29T12:22:00.000-04:00

I often get asked if these two are twins?

I can't think of two kids who are more different than these.

They are different in every way.

Different eyes.

Different sizes.

Different ages.

Different attitudes.

Different deameanors.

Different interests.

Different EVERYTHING!

But they do share the same last name.

And the same adoring parents.

Progress

2011-03-29T12:17:00.000-04:00

Remember this girl?

We're working on a few things.

Taking away the sippy cup with milk - except for nap time and bed time.

One day down and already improvements.

The whining has decreased a little bit.

Just a little bit.

But every bit helps my sanity.

Or what's left of it.

And meal times have been so much better because she EATS!

Give me a week or two.

Then on to potty training!?!?

Oh, and she is starting to like her daddy more - but still claims to like mom most.

How is that possible?

I'm the only one who disciplines her - others are wrapped around her little fingers.

Adoration

2011-03-29T10:00:00.001-04:00

I just can't get over those freckles!

They are just so endearing to me.

As is this boy.

Connor is a sweet boy.

He tears up easily when others feelings are hurt.

He is thoughtful.

After I had to buy lacrosse equipment he felt badly that it cost so much.

So he brought me his money he has been saving to help off set the cost.

Sniff ...

One day a silly old girl will come and steal him from me.

Probably because of all his charm.

But I think the brown eyes might have something to do with it.

And of course,

the freckles!

Pinewood Derby 2011

2011-03-28T22:06:00.001-04:00

Connor was so excited to participate.

He loved making his car - from the cutting, sanding, painting, even putting the wheels on.

We were so proud of him.

More importantly he was proud of himself and his car.

He didn't win a single race.

But his cute face wore a smile all night long.

Then I was REALLY proud of him.

I LOVE this boy!

Beautiful SPRING!

2011-03-28T21:30:00.000-04:00

We live in a beautiful place.

Just look ...

Does it get any better than this?

BYU across the nation ...

2011-03-24T12:38:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the poor quality phone picture - but hey, it's game day, we are excited!!

Everyone has on their BYU shirts.

BYU Mint Brownies just waiting to be consumed.

Now, on to victory!