The Wenger Family

Tiger Mountain Adventure

2012-01-31T23:22:00.000-08:00

I woke up on a cool August morning and got the bright idea of going on a hike a few days before school started. It just felt like a hiking kind of day. I remembered going on a family walk at Tiger Mountain several years ago so I convinced Rebecca to come along and we jumped in our vans and headed out.
When we got there I couldn't quite tell where we had walked before so we asked a fellow hiker which way to go. He suggested a 1.5 mile loop and pointed in the direction to start. We headed out without a second thought.
I don't think we passed a single hiker even though the parking lot was packed.

Bradley had to drop large rocks downwaterfalls.

Rebecca was more prepared with a two backpacks...one for kids and one with a first aid kit, water, food, and an emergency whistle that the boys used so they could go ahead.

Paige used the first aid kit.

We had weeping and wailing along the trail...that kept going and going. We finally got to a road, but didn't know which way to go....we chose one path and walked for about 1/2 a mile and finally turned around. Then we went the other way for several hundred yards and didn't feel right about that way either. We could use our cell phones to make calls, but didn't know where to tell anyone we were so they could help us!

Finally we decided that they only sure way back was to turn around and go the way we came. So the exhausted kids and moms had to buck up and make it back. Well, we walked and walked and finally made it back. After 3 hours of straight walking the girls ended on a good note holding hands...

Later that afternoon I looked online and mapped out that we (including Paige...still 2) walked 5 miles!

Closing the summer at Coulon

2012-01-31T23:16:00.000-08:00

An afternoon at the beach and park. Dig, dig, digging

None of the boys would join Tyson, so he took the swimming test and enjoyed with diving boards on his own.

Sydney, Kate, and Susie

Rocking on the giant playground.

Teeter-totter.

It was so nice I told Rebecca I wanted to trade my house in for a condo and boat on the water. With a giant park, great beach and a dock nearby it sounded great to me.

Camping Fun at Ensign Ranch

2012-01-31T22:45:00.000-08:00

We had 3 days filled with fun at Ensign Ranch with the Gealtas, Ellsworths, and Humphreys. Many canoe rides..

Including one where Bradley got stuck in the lake in a canoe by himself and I was in a canoe with 3 kids...that was interesting trying to toe him in against the lake current.

We sailed off the rope swing, including me!, despite the warnings of the leech filled lake...sure enough several of the kids ended up with them on their legs...gross.

One of my favorite shots...diehard watersliders heading in for a wet ride.

The girls went on pony rides

while the boys practiced lasso-ing. We also went on a group hayride complete with camp songs.

We got to go rock wall climbing. Paige waited so patiently while all 12 kids and few adults climbed and she still wanted a turn. They let her go and she made it pretty far, giggling all the way.

There was also a ropes course that the men did with the kids. Working together as a team, they did several fun activities.

The 5 boys got to spend the night on an island in a large tee-pee. They biked all of their supplies over (using a bridge) and camped out for the night. The moms went to check on them and were more scared than the boys!

The girls got cute Rebecca hairdos. Running in the dirt and eating smores were favorites.

BFF Up and down the slip n slide we went, eventually making trains and riding on laps and backs to enhance the fun.

Goodbye Hanbys

2012-01-31T22:42:00.000-08:00

The Hanby family moved to Spokane. We had a nice evening and the park to say goodbye.

Renton River Days Celebs

2012-01-31T22:32:00.000-08:00

Bradley, Kate, Paige, and I headed off to Renton River Days on our own while Rick and Tyson were at Scout Camp. We ended up being interviewed by the Renton Reporter and had a picture with a few quotes written up. I never saw a hard copy, but was able to look the article up online. We went on bouncy houses, crafted fancy headbands, tried the hamster ball,petting zoo, and many other fun booths. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon.

2011 Youth Pioneer Trek

2012-01-31T22:20:00.000-08:00

Rick and I were priviledged to be able to be 'Ma and Pa' to 9 youth during a 3 day Trek in southern WA. We met up with the group of youth from Kent at the Columbia River Temple on Wed afternoon. We headed to the site near Hermiston, WA and met our new children. We started treking and went about 3.5 miles the first afternoon in about 100 degree weather; that is decked out in pioneer clothing.
We slept in a tent, while the youth slept under the stars. The next day we went several more miles, but had to change our course because of 35-40 mi/hr winds. It helped with the heat and the bugs, but not the dust in the face or the ability to talk to each other well. We continued on the next day and made it to Zion (pictured below) after about 5 miles that day. It felt sooo good to toss our shoes off and run with bare feet in the grass. We enjoyed having our hair washed and the shade of the trees that night. As well and good food and dancing.
We had an awesome group of kids and ended up with even a few others 'joining' us. Many firesides and reinactments helped us really come closer and appreciate the pioneers and what they did for us. Despite many other adults warning us about how hard it would be, we loved every minute and would do it again.

Summer Swimming

2012-01-31T22:00:00.000-08:00

Our annual trip to Tri-Cities for summer fun and swimming came to fruition. Kate started out with water wings and ended up jumping off the diving board and swimming to the side all by herself, and she does a mean dive off the side of the pool.

Paige refused to swim with her boy teacher for the first week, but gave in towards the end. But she loved with water and would swim all afternoon.

4th of July was celebrated on the Columbia River. We took the seats out of the van for a nice comfy seat, while the boys had their fun sitting on top of the van. Rick got a ride over and joined us the next day, Sunday evening.

Baby Josh got blessed on Sunday.

One of my favorite summer photos. Cousins at Leslie Grove Park, visiting with friends.

Tyson joined the swim team and had his first meet at the Racquet Club, my former employer..(just a few years back ;).

Tyson and I got to do baptisms for the dead with my parents since they work in the baptistry. It was his first time, since he just turned twelve. The interesting part was that it was in Spanish!

The girls got treated Monkey Dooz..so fun. Hair washing, cut in a barbie car with a movie, hairstyle, sparkles, balloons, and candy!

"Mom, I think you're getting confused!"

2012-01-16T21:14:00.000-08:00

Well, I did just have a birthday, but I didn't expect to have that phrase pronouced quite yet. Kate braided my hair today and I said "Kate, how did you learn how to braid? I didn't teach you that. In fact, I didn't teach you how to tie shoes either. I'm missing out teaching you these things, where did you learn them." To which the comment came..."Yes you did, Mom, I think you're getting confused."
I guess she's a quick learner and my brief explanations (that I barely remember) worked! Or maybe I am becoming senile in my young age!

Happy 35th Rebecca!

2011-07-24T21:54:00.000-07:00

After heading to the beach the day school got out and going to Richland for swimming lessons and straight onto Trek, I threw a birthday party/welcome back party for the Haddocks. We had about 25 people over.

Happy Birthday!

Building Sandcastles with the Wellers

2011-07-24T21:39:00.000-07:00

Whoever said the Washington Coast is not as beautiful as the Oregon Coast??? We took our first trip to Long Beach, WA with the Wellers the day school got out. It was beautiful and sunny with lots of things to do and see.

Go Karts....a kid favorite. As well as pony rides.

We stayed in the home of Monte L. Bean of the Life Sciences Museam at BYU. Wow, Dave, cool relatives.

Launching water balloons over the vast sandy beach. Dave also took us 4X4ing on the beach.

Our gracious hosts...Dave and Lori.

We even got to go on a little date...a couple beachside bike ride. Dave's mom stayed home to hold the fort down.

We hiked to a lighthouse. And went to a Columbia River Museam and a cranberry museam.

We ran up and down the longest boardwalk in the US. But of all the fun things we did...the kids' favorite was probably walking to the market across the street for treats!

The Fun Never Ends

2011-06-25T01:14:00.000-07:00

The elemenary school carnival is always a main event of June. Bradley, never afraid to be bold and walk on the wild side.

Paige and her very favorite babysitter, Rachael.

Happy as a clam with TWO painted cheeks.

Cuties. And then, the pinacle of 6th grade comes with.....THE DUNK TANK. Apparently the new PTSA did not realize this until after the announcement about the carnival went out over the loud speaker that morning. Tyson, not hearing a dunk tank mentioned quickly let her know how important it was. The poor woman said she spent half the day trying to arrange one and pulled of the biggest and best one they had ever had. The drama didn't end there. No one could fill it up because there was a leak in the hose, so they called the fire department across the street and a fire engine finally came and filled it. Tyson was of course first to volunteer. He said it was actually a little scary he were so high up there and now knowing when he was about it fall.

But of course loving every minute of it. With all the waiting to get it started there was a huge crowd by the time he got up there. It was great watching the excitement of all the kids. He had so much fun he did it again an hour later and Rick got the throw the ball and knock him in.

All on a cool June evening!

Tyson's 12th Birthday

2011-06-25T00:55:00.000-07:00

Tyson wasn't having a big celebration for his birthday this year since he went back East with Rick. We'd had a busy week, but he decided he wanted to spend the afternoon with a few guys from the neighborhood. So word spread quickly and soon we had lots of boys to hang out. We had snacks and cake and they hot tubbed, jumped on the trampoline, and played wall ball and basketball. It was a great impromtu party and the guys even came up with a few gifts we weren't expecting. They went to a neighborhood garage sale and got him some gag gifts and then pooled some cash and candy for him. We had Andy, Christian, Logan, Eric, Trey, Zac. Plus Bradley, Kate and Paige.

He got a frisbee, yo-yo, Phillies shirts, hat, and shorts. New tennis shoes, shorts, a mess kit...etc

We ended the night by taking the boys out to Applebee's for half price appetizers.

Happy Birthday Tyson. Current interests...sports, baseball, Phillies, friends, wii, scouting activities, and Young Men's activites like ultimate frisbee.

Meridian Mini Marathon

2011-06-25T00:40:00.000-07:00

This year's annual mini marathon fell on Tyson's birthday. We ran, we placed, everyone sang to Tyson and we lost Grandpa and Paige. Tyson got first for his age group, Bradley got second, and Kate, yes Kate got 4th for the Kindergarten and under.

The plan was to have Grandpa watch Kate and Paige so I could finally run myself, without pushing the jogger this year. That was until Kate INSISTED on running. I tried and tried to talk her out of it. 2.6 miles seemed a little far for a preschooler, but she won and we ran...and she cried and I made her keep running, and she learned a few lessons about not listening to her mothers advice! And at one poin,t as I was trying not to get totally frustrated, I was encouraging her on she said "Mom, you sound like a coach and you're embarrassing me!" (No one was around and I have no idea how she know what coaches saw, but it did make me laugh and help me to endure the last mile of torture).

But we made it, and I was proud of her. But where was Grandpa, Paige and the camera? About 15 minutes later we found out when they came jogging in!

Rick beat his time of last year and made it into the top 4 adult finishers (one of the adults that beat him finished in the state high school track tournament this year).

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-25T00:33:00.000-07:00

Apparently I didn't take very many pictures, but it was a big week for us. Brian and Jessica came into town. Rick was ordained a High Priest and was put into the bishopric and then the following week, Tyson was ordained a deacon. You sure are growing up.

And Paige fell in love with baby Josh, her newest cousin. Even two months later she is still carring blankets around the house and pretending she is holding and taking care of him.

Happy Fathers Day 2011

2011-06-24T21:21:00.000-07:00

The kids did a great job of pitching in and helping cook an amazing Fathers Day meal for their Dad on one of his first long Sundays of being in the Bishopric. Banana Cream Pie...one of the whole familes' favorites. Now we just need to work on our Sunday attire!

Phillies vs. Mariners

2011-06-24T21:17:00.000-07:00

Rick and Tyson treated themselves to seeing a second Phillies game of the season since they happened to come into town to play the Mariners. They had fun watching batting practice and seeing all the players close up.

Home Away From Home

2011-06-23T23:54:00.000-07:00

The girls get mighty used to the baseball fields since they spend up to four nights a week at them all Spring long. This night was not such a great one for Paige... She never cried, and it didn't bleed much, but it was a full thickness cut. I was worried it needed stitches so I dropped into a friend's house, who happens to be an ER nurse. She kindly helped us steri-strip it and all was well. The only bribing Paige needed to sit still was to pet their dog when she was done, worked like a charm.

Another tragic moment for Paige was when she fell down and embankment and was stranded, hanging on for dear life for an unknown period of time (sounds more tragic than it looks in real life. You would laugh if you saw it, but to her, scary. It really wasn't far or steep, she just didn't know that) poor girl.

On a happier note, the girls found a pet snail during one game that became quite popular with all the girls.

Paige even reluctantly held it.

Baseball friends.

Kid Pitch Baseball for Bradley

2011-06-23T23:50:00.000-07:00

Bradley had another fun season of 3rd/4th grade Kent Parks baseball. He started off the season by pitching the opening of the first game, to our surprise! He had some great hits and plays (mostly in the outfield since he was one of the younger kids).

I still think his favorite part is the snack at the end of the game...

Relay for Life 2011

2011-06-23T00:26:00.000-07:00

I taught nutrition again, Minute to Win It style, at the elementary school for their Relay for Life event. It went over really well again this year. It was a lot of fun having the kids compete in games, being cheered on by the audience of about 125 kids, and then teach them nutrition concepts between each game. Each of the four 30 minute segments flew by.

The previous coordinator for the event has since had all of her children leave the school and I have agreed to help organize the event next year....guess we'll see what that entails later.

But my favorite part of the whole event was during the hero lap, when the kids walk around the track with a hero. Tyson came to me and said "Mom, walk with me". I felt like crying I was so touched. It was very sweet of him.

Piano Recital 2011

2011-06-23T00:23:00.000-07:00

Tyson played "The Pines" by Alfred.

Zoo Time

2011-06-23T00:18:00.000-07:00

Kate's last preschool fieldtrip was to the Point Defiance Zoo. I took Paige and went along. It was a gorgeous day and we had a lot of fun with all of Kate's friends.

Paige is the perfect age to take to the zoo, she just loves it.

Kate's two good school friends, Allison and Leah.

Little League Tournament

2011-06-23T00:12:00.000-07:00

The Giants ended the tournament with Second place. Wow, they did great. It was a fun tournament with close games, great plays and a lot of excitement.

I loved watching Rick coach the boys. And Tyson, knowing the game really well, was always coach junior.

Spring's Pet

2011-06-23T00:06:00.000-07:00

And people say I don't like pets....well we had one this year, a few as a matter of fact! A bird built a nest in front of our house.

She had her babies there and anytime we came in or out she was there protecting her young. I loved listening to her song.

Then nature took it's course and one day those little birds grew up and flew away and the nest came down. It was neat. And as close as I want to having a pet :)

MV vs Canine

2011-06-14T23:36:00.000-07:00

Yes. I really did drive a duct-taped car for over a month! The story goes:
It was a dark rainy night on a two-lane road...when a large dog ran out in front of us... Sad for the dog, and sad for the mom who had to calm 3 children down that clung to her because they were scared every night for a week (while their dad was out of town) and then had to pay $500 to fix it! But we enjoyed the duct tape job for two months first. Who has time to give up their car for 2 days?

The kids couldn't stop talking about the experience to anyone and everyone. Paige kept saying "Dog scary. Dog bit our car!" (And she had slept through the whole thing)

Derby Day

2011-06-14T23:28:00.000-07:00

Bradley got first place in the bear den and 5th overall in the pinewood derby this year. He also got an award for the 'best body' because of his great style.

He called it the 'black banged-up derby car' because of the crazy paint job. It was the combined efforts of Bradley as design, Grandpa in cutting, Mom in paint, and Dad in weight distribution, and Bradley in graphite application (sounds like Bradley did most of the work-wink!)

Playful Paige

2011-06-14T23:14:00.000-07:00

We love Paige, she brings so many smiles to our home with her cute ideas. One day she built this baracade all by herself.She recently starting riding the broom around the kitchen saying "witch, witch".

She also says "All aboard!" and "Giddy-up horsey" and "SUPER (fill in the blank) usually Girl, or dress." She loves the read books and always wants to pick which book to read next. She even wants to pick when there is only one book left!

Recently she heard that her friend Taylor was going swimming. When we got home she put on her swimming suit and later brought me a roll of duct tape and said "fix it". It took me a while, but I figured out she wanted me to fix the hottub so she could go swimming!

Today she starting using a marker that didn't work. She quickly hopped up to solve the problem. She came back with a battery! When I told her it wasn't going to work she said "need smaller one".

Last week Paige was sitting on Rick's lap and examing his face. She wanted to show him what she was looking at so she kept saying "look dad". She wouldn't stop trying to contort his face so he could look at himself until he faked that he could see his own face.

We went to the zoo last week and Paige couldn't wait to see the elephants, which we unfortunately last on our route. But the next morning I asked her what her favorite animals that she saw and she listed Zebra, Giraffe, Elephant, and Hippo (only one of which do they have at Point Defiance Zoo)!

Spring Break In D.C.

2011-06-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

Tyson and Rick went back East for Spring Break as an early 12th birthday present. They spent a few days in D.C. with Jeff, and few days with Rick's Mom in Chambersburg, PA, and even spent and evening in Philadephia at a Phillies game. Bradley was sure they were going to Chuck E Cheese, without him, so they sent some pictures to tease him.

The Potomac River and JFK Theater.

Lincoln Memorial.

The Washington D.C. Temple where they watched General Conference.

The U.S. Capitol. They also went to the Smithsonians, National Archives, National Cemetary, Washington Monument, National Cemetary, Mt. Vernon, Beaureau of Engraving and Printing, and their favorite the Spy Museam, and many more...

But I think the trip to the Phillies Stadium wowed Tyson the most...

Classic Easter Photos

2011-06-14T22:30:00.000-07:00

One of many attempts... Trying to remain calm...

My favorite of the kids...everyone loves Paige's energy and expressions. (She does the same thing after she says Amen when she prays.)

The best group shot (after deleting the first 10 or so because Paige's panties were showing)! It was a wonderful Easter Sunday. The hunts were over and we were able to focus on the real meaning of Easter, the Resurrection of our Savio, Jesus Christ.

Clever Bunny

2011-06-14T22:21:00.000-07:00

It was getting late Saturday night and the kids wanted to do an Easter Egg Hunt at home (which Rick despises, thinking they've had enough fun and candy already). So while the kids bathed and got their jammies on the Easter Bunny came. Since they hadn't eaten dinner yet either, the Easter Bunny left a special note/treat this year. It was a card that read something like "If you eat some of my food, you can have a treat too. Love, the Easter Bunny." It was a plate full of carrots, apples, etc.

The kids saw right through my scheme, but they cleared the plate and the had fun hunting for candy and toys!

Neighborhood Annual Easter Egg Hunt

2011-06-14T22:11:00.000-07:00

We had beautiful weather for our Easter Egg Hunt this year. There were lots of kids and lots of chocolate. Kate is off...

Paige is thrilled.

Tyson is loaded.

Bradley is frantic. (Looking for a penny to turn in for a prize)

Tyson in the Talent Show-Meridian's Got Talent

2011-06-13T23:12:00.000-07:00

Tyson showed his talent playing the theme song of "Charlie Brown". It was a classic, fun, recognizable song, making it very enjoyable. It took alot of convincing, talking into, guilting into, but he was glad he did it.

Rick showing off his tan from Washington DC.

Paige did a little impromtu after the show.

A Spring Hike

2011-06-13T23:05:00.000-07:00

We finished up Spring Break (after hitting a dog and then Paige getting the flu) with a nice hike in Federal Way. The boys show their stuff.

Girly girls.

A happy moment. (They weren't all happy!)

The Moms.

It took us a trek through some deep mud to find the right trail (a dry boardwalk!) but we enjoyed some wildlife along the way.

Spring Break 2011

2011-06-13T22:58:00.000-07:00

Bradley, Kate, Paige and I went to the Seattle Aquarium and the Red Robin to celebrate Spencer's 4th birthday. Um YUM!

We enjoyed the remodeled aquarium including a giant wall of fish.

AAA Baseball

2011-06-13T22:51:00.000-07:00

Rick coached Tyson's team again. They had a great season. Tyson played mostly catcher, and second base, but did pitch a few times. He was a great hitter. It was fun to watch him because he loves the game so much.

Go Giants! "Black and orange, black and orange"

Great Wolf Lodge

2011-06-13T22:41:00.000-07:00

We took the kids down to Great Wolf Lodge and loved it. It was a great way to celebrate Bradley's 9th Birthday. We went with the Hatch family. The kids loved the Magiquest game.

We all loved the slides.

We can't wait to go back again.

Crystal Mountain

2011-06-13T22:35:00.000-07:00

For Christmas I got Rick a night at the Crystal Mountain Resort. Michelle and Dixon came with us. It was fun to get away, stay the night, have a big breakfast and ski all day. There was so much powder it was exhausting, but a lot of fun.

Bradley becomes a Bear

2011-06-13T22:27:00.000-07:00

There are advantages to being short. Bradley won!

Bradley got his Wolf at the Blue and Gold Banquet in March.

And it was my debut as a Scout Leader. Lovin' that yellow shirt!

Way to go Bradley!

Sweet, sweet girl.

2011-03-06T22:02:00.000-08:00

I'll enjoy her while she's young and sweet.....

Mom and Kate picking flowers.

Hanging with Cousins

2011-03-06T21:51:00.000-08:00

After celebrating Bradley's birthday at Red Robin (as evidenced by the giant chocolate syrup stains on his white shirt) the cousins came to hang out, literally. Woo hoo, no hands! She might be a girl, 6 months older and taller, but Bradley loves his cousin, Emily.

Tooth Two

2011-03-06T21:37:00.000-08:00

It seems like that's how it usually works, lose a tooth and they all start falling out... I didn't expect it while she was in preschool still. This time I had to help her pull it out. After it was hanging by a thread for a few days. This time her cousin was there, who also had a loose tooth. So while they wore matching shirts I oragelled them up together and the wiggled away. Finally, after Kate's was out Megan said "Wow, I can't believe I was here for this!"

In all of the excitement, Kate subsequently lost the tooth, so had to write her fairy friends a note. It read. "Thank you for the dollar. I lost another tooth. From Kate. To tooth fairy. I love you. I see you." I'm sure the tooth fairy will deliever after that!

New Bed!

2011-03-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

Well, it was before I was hoping, but sure enough we had some crib hopping. Last week Paige started showing up downstairs about 5 min after we put her down for a nap. After interrogating each family member, in hopes that she really hadn't done it, I finally had her show me how she got out. Yes, unaided, except by a pillow to stand on. So, we had our last night of reading stories in our favorite glider rocker....

and then reluctantly sold it the next day on craiglist. Also got a twin mattress on craiglist. And wa la, Paige got a new room. (We had the bed and bedding in storage). The furniture was mine and also my Mom's when she was young.

Here's her version...

Zumba!

2011-03-01T21:50:00.001-08:00

I've been joining in the ZUMBA craze at the gym. It's a fun fast-paced dance/aerobics class that is a great whole body workout.
Paige and Kate were begging me to dance with them last night to music in the family room. As we were rocking out Bradley said "if someone walked in right now, I would tell them you are NOT my mom!"

Kentwood Band Festival

2011-03-01T15:12:00.000-08:00

Tyson got to play the trumpet in a band festival with several area elementary schools, the junior high, and high school.

Kitchen Makeover

2011-03-01T14:48:00.000-08:00

While Grandma was busy getting makeovers, watching Mary Poppins, and being Mary Poppins, Grandpa (Dad) and I were busy making over the kitchen. This was before the granite came. We had to put plywood on the countertops and have them level.

After the granite we tiled the backsplash. Grouting is seriously a painful process...

But well worth it. We ended up wrapping the window (and slider), shortening the curtains and many other side projects....THANKS DAD! And Mom, the behind the scenes helper.

My desk that will have to stay clean now that it's so pretty. I Love, Love, Love it.

Makeover Fun

2011-03-01T14:41:00.000-08:00

With Grandma in town, Kate had no problem giving up her bedroom, because she had a new client for her makeovers. Paige joined right in on the fun. They woke grandma up every morning at 7am to remind her! Grandma was great. She handed over all her make-up and let them have at it (something Mom would NEVER consider).

It was hard to get Paige to stop. She would have done it all day if allowed.

The results were beautiful, an a 2 and 5 year old sort of way!

A Tooth Fairy Sighting!

2011-03-01T14:27:00.000-08:00

It was a dramatic and exciting event when Kate discovered that she had a loose tooth. Of course Paige was sure she had one too, so I wiggled hers several times that evening too. Kate was surprising tenacious about trying to pull it out. She said "I just can't stand it in there anymore, I want it out." But after a oragel treatment and lots of tugging, she decided to wait... until Grandpa volunteered to give it a wiggle! And we all know Grandpa loves to pull teeth.

Sure enough they got it out and then came the tooth fairy.Kate woke up in the morning and said "Mom! I heard a sound in the night! It was fairy wings. And I saw them! There were three of them in pink and blue. They were tiny like a button and had sparkly wings and they had wands in their hands!"

I of course was amazed at how many details she could remember from a nighttime visit. When she questioned why they didn't take her tooth that she had hidden in the pocket of her sleeping bag I told her that it would have been a pretty big tooth for a fairy the size of a button!

She was thrilled with her dollar and excitedly spent it the next day on a Costco hotdog, after holding out 10 cents for tithing. Of course Bradley had to inform her about how dumb that was since Mom would have bought the hotdog anyway!

Firestation Fun

2011-03-01T14:21:00.000-08:00

Bradley needed to visit a fire station in order to earn his Wolf rank in Cub Scouts. So he and Kate and I went to visit one after school one day. Bradley seemed in awe the whole time. He was pretty speechless, which is unlike him.

Kate liked seeing that the wheels of the firetruck were as tall as her.

I guess I shouldn't have enjoyed this scouting activity as much as I did, because a week later I got called to be Bradley's scout leader...can't wait to don the yellow shirt!

Boys and Basketballs

2011-03-01T14:12:00.000-08:00

Bradley played his first season of basketball and Tyson played his first in 4 years. They had a great time. We lucked out having the same coach for both boys so all of our games were back to back. I must say, it is a very exciting sport and a WARM one at that! All went well except for the darting 2 year old onto the court. This would happen when Rick would volunteer to keep score the second game because he was tired of helping corrall the girls. Then Paige would get tired of being coaxed to stay on the bleachers and make dash for her dad accross the court-taking the direct route of course. To my dismay we spent many second halves in the hallway. Fun watching those buckets.

Bradley's team was undefeated! Way to go.

Thanks coach Goodwin.

Valentine's Day on the Slopes

2011-03-01T13:36:00.000-08:00

Although we don't work for Boeing, we do enjoy their perks every once in a while. We went night skiing at Snoqualmie Pass for $10/each (normally $30). Luckily that's all we paid since we left early (a first for me) with dripping gloves and wet bottoms. That was an uncomfortable ride home! I guess I should expect to ski in rain living in Seattle, but I never had before. Miserable! That being said, the first two hours were perfect and it was well worth it. We had great company. Rebecca and her boys and my sister, hubby, and daughter. We also brought along another guy friend who put up with all of us and the kids. Maybe the propane fire will dry our soaking gloves.....no such luck!

Bradley chillin' on the lift after Tyson and Christian ended up on the one behind.

Happy Valentine's Day sweetie!

Christmas in Kent 2010

2011-01-23T22:10:00.000-08:00

It was actually Christmas Eve morning. We celebrated early so we could pick up Jeff at the airport and have him home for Christmas, they kids didn't argue with that.

I made the girls bracelets. And they got costumes, etc.

The boys got watches.. Tyson got some awesome ski boots to go with his skis...

But my favorite part about Christmas was a few days prior. We went as a family to the Supermall. We split up into boys and girls and bought gifts for each other with a budget of $5 each. The kids had fun shopping and exchanging the gifts. Kate got a cute heart necklace and Paige got a teddy bear and a noman (snowman) shirt that she LOVES. Kate picked Old Navy fleeces for the boys.

We also did some secret santa gifting that was fun.

On our way to Richland we went sledding at Snoqualmie Pass. I was hesitant at the thought of bringing all the gear, getting cold, and riding the rest of the way wet, but it was a blast. Even Paige picked a sled right up at said "ride it". She loved it. I was surprised since she didn't like a lot of the theme park rides last summer.

Happy Birthday to Me...

2011-01-23T22:02:00.000-08:00

I thought this picture of the boys was sweet. It was a nice day. Rick took me out to a nice lunch. We had cake (a free one from the glean of course) with the kids, they enjoyed decorating it with 35 candles. Yes, I blew them all out!
Rick went shopping the day before, to the Supermall, and got me a sweater from Banana Republic and a cool skiing hat, I was very impressed.

35 here I come....

Look What I Did!

2011-01-23T21:44:00.000-08:00

I made some cute Valentine pom poms out of old t-shirts.

Scored a free pair of hip boots in Kate's size at a Relief Society clothing exchange. A bit of polish, and wow! Super cute. I've been seeing subway art on the blogs and at boutique. So I decided to make my own, of course. Got my new Cricut, which I LOVE, and here's one of my new projects.

First I painted the board off-white. Cut and applied the contact paper. Sprayed it black. Pulled off the contact paper, sanded and stained. Wa La.

I also made curtains for the boys room. I LOVE CRAFTING!

Tyson for President

2011-01-23T21:30:00.000-08:00

Tyson decided to go for it in the 6th grade year at Meridian Elementary. He ran for Student Body President. With Bradley as a diligent campaign manager they went to work.

His slogan was 'Play your cards right, I'm dynamite'. He handed out hundreds of playing cards with his name and slogan.

The voting was on election day. Tyson stayed after school for volleyball practice. Bradley came home with a forlorn face....and then gave every detail and emotion of the annoucement, and then said "HE WON!" and gave me a big hug!

We celebrated with confetti.

Tyson had promised the student body in his speech that he would color his hair school colors if he won....

Congrats Tyson, and big thanks to Bradley for all his help.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-30T23:09:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving ended up being a two week celebration including:
A giant snowstorm and subsequent freeze lasting several days.
A visit from Great Aunt Kay, Grandma and Grandpa Hoyle, and a surprise visit by Brian, Jessica, and Zachary.
A wonderful meal at our house, my favorite food being the fresh cranberry sauce
Black Friday shopping, of course
Dancing at the Center House, Seattle Center
A Christmas Story, premiering at the 5th Avenue Theater
My first visit to the Seattle Art Museam
Annual visit to Maple Valley's Community Center light festival and Santa
And much, much more including Paige learning how to say Pepsi and copy! (coffee).
And Kate asking Santa for a white poodle that she was going to name Fluffy. When Grandma said she wasn't sure Mom would go for that, Kate quickly replied "Doesn't matter, just asked Santa!"

Paige was scared of Santa

Aunt Kate brought oragami, like she had brought to me when I was young, the kids loved it.

Goodbye Craguns

2010-12-30T23:01:00.000-08:00

There was certainly only one good thing about this game of bowling. Rick beat all the men, I beat all the women, and Bradley beat all the kids....other than that it was our goodbye to our close friends the Craguns, that lived just 2 doors away for the last 5 years.

We bowled and then we cried again....it was really, really hard. Then they headed for the airport.

Best Wishes in Texas, we love you and miss you!

Halloween Trickery

2010-12-30T22:23:00.000-08:00

Halloween 2010, Ward Party/Truck or Treat

It was a menagerie of costumes, but everyone was happy. Rick as himself, I mean a nerd! myself as a bumblebee, Tyson as Jack Sparrow, Bradley as an astronaut, Kate a cheerleader, and Paige a unicorn with her belly hanging out. And all I bought was a shirt from Value Village that I cut into Tyson's vest. And I made Bradley's space helmet out of paper mache (Ok, I just upcycled a paper mache pumpkin from last year so all I had to do was spray paint and cut!)
We went to our ward party, trunk or treat and an Egyptian themed carnival.
Since Halloween was on Sunday we chose not to trick-or-treat, but thought we'd be neighborly and hand out candy, which the kids enjoyed doing. The Hatch family joined us. We went to decorate brownies and discovered that Bradley and Kate were missing. Sure enough they had gone out trick or treating, Kate wearing a red and black tutu and a random t-shirt and a witch's hat, and Bradley with his astronaut costume, but a baseball helmet. It's no wonder a few neighbors asked where their parents were. They had gone to half the neighborhood and had collected quite a haul of candy, which of course was confiscated for disobeying. Their story was that they decided to just go next door, and then they just couldn't stop....(can't wait for them to be teenagers). When we asked if they had gone to their friends' house, Bradley replied "Of course not, I'm way too smart for that!" When Rick went to that friend's house to see if they'd seen him, his friend said "Man, he's so smart!" So I guess Rick and I got the trick that night....

Kids Cook-off Winner

2010-12-30T22:16:00.000-08:00

So Tyson, with my help, entered a Kids Cook-off Contest at Red Robin where you get to make up your own burger recipe with 10 ingredients or less and the winner has their burger featured at stores nationwide. Tyson didn't win the whole contest, but managed to win for the Kent store. He got a $25 gift card and his name on two posters at our local Red Robin. His burger was call the Fajita Avocado-inator, a chicken burger on a ciabatta bun with roasted peppers and onions...So we went out at celebrated as a family. We had a great time.

Fall Ball

2010-12-21T23:19:00.000-08:00

Tyson's true love: baseball, so he plays it twice a year. A practice season in the fall, and a competive season with Little League in the spring.

He had a lot of friends on his team, did well fielding the ball and enjoyed the season overall.

Sixth Soccer Season!

2010-12-21T23:12:00.000-08:00

Bradley played soccer for his 6th year! He scored a goal in the jamboree. I think his best position is midfielder, he has the energy to run the whole game and is not afraid of the ball or the other players. He is very aggressive and does well at turning the ball around. And after all these years and hundreds of pictures, I actually captured a pretty cool one, which is tough to do in soccer. Great season Bradley.

Happy Birthday Paige

2010-12-21T22:55:00.000-08:00

Our baby is growing up! A tea party with her new two-year old proof tea set.

After the pumpkin patch till 3, then parent teacher conferences and a quick party we had to move the tea party down to a baseball game for Tyson in Tacoma!

A new fancy dress from Grandma that she promptly insisted on trying on.

A new piggy, pots and pans, color wonder...

A giant cupcake for the birthday girl.

The cupcake concoction I created in about 2 minutes....my excuse, 4th child. Sorry Paige, but some things will be to your advantage being the last...

Nothing says a two-year old party like party hats and noisemaker you blow--do they have a name???

She caught right on to those. Happy Birthday, we love you.

A Trip to the Farm

2010-12-21T22:35:00.000-08:00

It was Paige's 2nd birthday, a what a better way to celebrate than at the farm. It was a gorgeous sunny day. We headed down to Maris Farms in Buckley. We went with Tia and her kids and met up with Michelle and many of her friends and their kids. We watched the pig races.

Went down some giant slides

Is that picturesque or what?

The kids loved the 'tractors'.

Of course there was a hayride and a corn maze. And mom's favorite part, free pizza for lunch!

And a cow ride. It was so sunny the kids couldn't pose for a picture.

Plenty to keep us busy all day long.

First Day of Preschool

2010-12-21T22:28:00.000-08:00

It's a long story, but to summarize, it was 6 months of agonizing over two different preschools and then on the last day of summer vacation a new opportunity fell into our laps and we finally found the right one for Kate. We are so grateful. Kate attends Miss Ashlee's preschool. She has met great new friends and it is just right for her. It's 12:30-3:00 M-Th and I started carpooling the first week, hurray!

And Paige loves it too, because there is a park right next door.

Kate turns 5, or was that 15 or 50?

2010-12-21T21:58:00.000-08:00

Kate is always blurting out something beyond her years. She's a tiny little spitfire. If I don't know something or can't find something, she's the one to ask. If she doesn't know she'll tell you something believable. It's fun to have her around. She's very girly. She loves picking outfits, painting nails, putting on make-up etc. In fact, one day we were talking about what we would do with a million dollars and she immediately stated that she would get a make-over! Don't even know where she heard that term. And what's there to make over? She's darling except for that hair, and not much to cut there!

Cupcakes with the family.

Hair do's and nails for the girls.

All to get ready for a trip to the new McDonalds playland!

After school her new classmate, Leah, joined us for ice cream, what a treat for Kate. And what a difference that headband makes!

Presents with the family including clothes and a baby alive doll, that really does poop on your carpet! Watch out.

Here you can see Paige's clenched fist which means she wants that. She's always showing me pictures in books and clenching her fist because she wants whatever it is, like a toy etc.

Happy Birthday sweetie, we won't forget this one!

Back to School 2010

2010-12-19T21:31:00.000-08:00

Tyson, 6th Grade, Mrs. Anderson.

Bradley, 3rd Grade, Mrs. Solomon and Mrs. Curry.

Christian, Zach, and Tyson

Tyler, Logan, and Bradley

Loading the bus to Meridian Elementary.

Having brunch with only 5 (of 12) kids left behind.

Kate's New 'Do'

2010-12-19T20:44:00.000-08:00

She really did it. At nearly 5 I would have never guessed she would have done such a thorough butch to herself, and her toy dogs, and her friend, but she did. Rick commented when I came home about how quiet she and Ella had been. Later when they walked downstairs, Kate with a pillow over her head, we noticed Ella's short bangs. Kate hid herself for about a half an hour. I didn't even want to see what she had done because I had gone upstairs and had seen the ginormous pile of hair in my bathroom. Admitedly, I wailed for a good long time, and then I decided I had to stop so we could both move on. Kate had broken blood vessels under her eyes she had cried so hard. She knew by then it wasn't good. Apparently she started with the animals and Ella in her room and then she moved onto my bathroom to do her own in the mirror. She said she wanted to make her hair look cute, but it didn't work out. So then she tried putting a poodle on her head to cover it up so we wouldn't notice. It just fell off so she went to a pillow. Well, then we went to headbands and giant flowers.

And it would make me so mad when people at the store would compliment her on her cute headbands!

She had cut only a small chunk off the sides, but the beautician said we needed to cut the length off. She originally cut it straight off the back just above the shoulders. I had wanted an A-line, so I mistakedly took her back and asked for it to be re-cut. That was one of the most horrifying hours of motherhood for me. When an obviously inexperienced hairstylist cut and cut and cut her hair 3-4 more inches off the back and sides. Well, I got my A-line! So now, not only was she butched in the front, she was butched in the back. GREAT! Good thing she's adorable, with a fun personality! We're hoping it's all restored by her baptism. And all I want for Christmas is her bangs back!

2010-10-31T23:45:00.000-07:00

The Ellsworths left early, and the Craguns and Gealtas decided to rent a ski boat. We opted for a morning in Chelan. We rode the trolley again (apparently a real sleeper for some of us!) Went to a park.

Played miniature golf on a real green. Paige LOVED putting.

And cruised around in go carts. Tyson got to drive his own.

Chelan Events

2010-10-31T23:23:00.000-07:00

Before we left we got a group shot since it was the last trip to Chelan with the Craguns. We started with a 6 kids and doubles to 12!

Hanging at the playground.

The boys decided to have a stroller derby with their siblings.

Playing games after putting the kids to bed.

Sitting still for a moment.

The girls found a great hideout under a nearby tree.

Cooking up some dutch oven cuisine, pineapple upsidedown cake.

Showing off at the beach.

Rafting around.

Joe and I took 14 of 16 kids on a trolley ride from Slidewaters to downtown Chelan for dinner. To my dissapointment ;) the drive in was closed. We ordered pizza and ate it at the park.

Sunny Slidewaters

2010-10-31T23:01:00.000-07:00

It was definately our nicest day at Slidewaters ever. The weather was perfect, the lines were short, the kids were easy, and we bought tickets ahead of time that included lunch, score!Hardly saw the big boys.

Got my best 'air' ever, and recorded on film. Was proud of myself until I was informed that I am supposed to lift the mat up too!

Check out these cool dudes!

Not so cool now! When you fall off your tube, oops.

It took some convincing, but Kate warmed up to some of the big slides. I took her on an intertube slide and was nervous she was going to fall off. As we're bobbing up and down, racing around the corners she says 'don't worry mom, we're ok'.

And little Paige must have ridden the littlest baby slide 150 times. We'd catch her at the bottom and she'd tottle up to the top all by herself and go again, and again, and again.

She was a trooper going on our laps on the bigger slides too.

Go, go, go

2010-10-31T22:26:00.000-07:00

Rick and Tyson took an early morning hike to the "Y" with all those brave enough for the steep incline.

Rick and 3 of his sisters, Michelle, Cheri, and Darla

We went swimming with the Haddocks. So fun to see them a year after they moved from WA to UT.

We went to a pioneer set up on Pioneer Day. The kids enjoyed learning some pioneer games.

A lot of car time... old fashioned style. Without a DVD player, handheld games, or even a CD player! Apparently the digital camera was used for entertainment.

The Bean Museam was one of the highlights of our campus time.

A late night trip to the creamery with the whole crew.

An evening playing pool, ping pong, and shuffleboard at the Senior Center Darla works at.

Our highlight of the whole trip was rock climbing at the quarry. Rick and I, the boys, and even Kate found a new activity to love. After coaching Kate to the very top, while belaying her, I actually climbed it myself and was nervous. I couldn't believe I had just talked my still 4 year old all the way up the 30+ foot wall!

Paige loved Darla's dog, cat, and even their cages. Kate wasn't nearly as scared as she had been of Grandma Brown's dogs, and Bradley seemed to be allergic to them. Darn, guess we won't be able to get any pets ;).f

Living it Up

2010-10-31T22:11:00.000-07:00

Rick got to take Cheri's bike for a ride.

While the kids entertained themselves on their own sweet ride.

A trip to campus to relive our glory years was not complete without a stop at the Courgareat. As well as the creamery, the bookstore, and a drive by the basball fields and our old apartment complexes.

We hiked up to see Bridal Veil Falls with the Holmes and Grandma Brown.

Holmes and Wenger cousins

Utah Bound

2010-10-31T21:50:00.000-07:00

From the Oregon Coast we headed to Utah for a week with Rick's family. On the way to Provo we stopped at Temple Square for the evening. We discovered the Church History Museam. We all loved it. The kids played upstairs at the "I am a Child of God" exhibit, and Rick could have spent an entire day downstairs looking at church history artifacts. There weren't many other visitors so we enjoyed a lot of attention from the volunteers there.

We also got to see a new replica of the Salt Lake City Temple that shows inside all of the many rooms.

We took a walk on the 'straight and narrow path.'

The Flood is Coming

2010-09-19T23:39:00.000-07:00

Well, they do say the valley might flood this winter, but I am referring to the flood of blog posts. Yes, I am finally playing summer ketchup, a phrase my friend, Kelly coined. So get ready, here they come...some tonight, many more in the near future. They may not be as creative, witty, or proof-read because I'm slamming them out. But our summer will be recorded for all to see. Thanks for reading, feel free to leave us a comment ;-).

Zooing it

2010-09-19T23:21:00.000-07:00

We went to Point Defiance Zoo a few times this summer. One time we even ran into our good friends, the Wellers. That was a treat. We also went to Zoo Boise on our way home from Utah.
We saw wildlife inside and outside the zoo.

Andy, Tyson, Tyler, and Bradley monkeying around with their new monkeys.

We could hang out at the kidzone all day.

We discovered the Budgie Buddies. Paige loved holding a bird on a popsicle stick, but Iwasn't too sure about her doing that.

Cousins

2010-09-19T23:14:00.000-07:00

My cousins, Lori and Melanie, from Utah came to Seattle with their families. We spent a day at Pacific Science Center and riding a ferry to Bainbridge Island.

Kate, Michelle, and Megan

Fast friends Emily, Kate, Ashley, Courtney, Drew, and Megan.

The girls, plus Spencer and Luke. Not pictured, Paige and Dane.

Tyson stayed home sick, and Bradley was at Cub Scout Daycamp.

Wild Waves 2010

2010-09-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

We spent a day at Wild Waves, thanks to the Ellsworths for their season pass discounts. For the first time, we let Tyson who was with Gunner, hang out on their own. They spent most of the day at the waterpark.

Bradley and I on one of my favorite rides, the Kangabounce.

Paige didn't like the rides, but was happily entertained in the water, or just hanging out.

It was a nice, relaxing family day.

Bradley, Gunner, Tyson , and Kate. Kate could not get enough of the rides, she went on anything she could over and over again. Bradley braved 'the Wild Thing' and was happy he had.

Keep it coming!

Seaside Oregon

2010-09-19T22:27:00.000-07:00

My two cousins from Utah and my sister, along with our parents spent a few night together at the Oregon Coast. The temperatures were cool, but it was fun to get together in a place we remember spending time as children. It was fun to have all 12 of our kids get to know each other better and reminisce.We enjoyed climbing the 'Column' and riding a trolley in Astoria.

An eternal family. Neighboring Cannon Beach was the most beautiful.

Playing on the beach. Bradley followed the tradition of being buried in the sand. Despite the wind, we roasted hotdogs and marshmallows.

My cousins, Melanie and Lori, and my sister, Michelle, and I.

Kate and Paige digging for treasures.

We went on a truck tour of Fort Stevens. We also frequented the $.75 Tillamook ice cream shop on the cute downtown boardwalk of Seaside. We even got to go to dinner without the kids one night, thanks Grandma and Grandpa.

Summer Fun

2010-09-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

We started off our summer vacation with our annual trip to Richland. The kids took swimming and tennis lessons. They had free breakfast and lunch at my almamarter, Jason Lee Elementary, and made new friends. Tyson learned to backflip off the board, Bradley improved his endurance and passed his level, Kate swam across the shallow end all by herself, and Paige had no fear, she loved it.
We went to the park and a car show/parade.
I convinced my dad to have a granite slab put on their island and then I shopped for granite, shopped more for granite, and more and more...but that's not all...we also bought new living room furniture and carpet. It was a busy two weeks, as usual. We were so happy to have Rick come both weekends to visit and drive us home.

Packed in Pack Meeting

2010-06-12T00:35:00.000-07:00

Snapped a picture of all the kids together, haven't done that in a while.

Bradley got his Bobcat. They hang him upside-down so he will to do a good turn (deed) before he can turn his pin right side up.

Tyson and three other boys got their Arrow of Light (the Eagle of cub scouting) Award. The best part is when they get to bridge (walk a suspension bridge held up by fellow scouts).

Non Pictured Notables

2010-06-12T00:27:00.000-07:00

We've been busy this spring with baseball, but other events that the camera didn't make it to include:
-The boys went to a Mariner's game
-The Artwalk at school
-The Fathers and Sons and Father Daughter campouts
-I taught nutrition to the school at a Relay for Life Event
-The kids and I went to Richland for Memorial Day while Rick went to Pennsylvania for his Grandma Rock's funeral.

Minute to Win It Party

2010-06-12T00:04:00.000-07:00

For Tyson's 11th Birthday we put on a party based on the show Minute to Win it. It was perfect for a big group of boys. We went to the church to have the competition, which included 10 different games. Then we came back and ate and the kids hot tubbed. If you haven't seen the show check it out on NBC, Wed at 7pm.

Tyson got some great presents for his birthday including a sleeping bag, digital camera, wii baseball game, pull up bar, games, etc.

My favorite part of the party was after I had been watched in awe the boys ran in and out of the hot tub with squirt guns and bowls of ice water etc, and Tyson looked at me with a straight face and said "that's what we do."

Mom's Day 2010

2010-06-11T23:56:00.001-07:00

It was a true Mother's Day including sick kids, crying kids, making dinner, cleaning up, kids eating my candy bar from church and all denying it!, etc. But hey, that's what I signed up for! There was a silver lining. This fabulous painting that Bradley made for me at school. I hung it on the wall the same day. What a gem. Love it.

Paige's Playset Venture

2010-05-10T22:55:00.000-07:00

At 19 months Paige decided it was time to take on the playset. Clad in her new crocs (that by the way, she will not take off even for naps) she made it up safely.

Down she went...again and again and again and again.. I think we'll be doing this until October.

She's gotten a lot of what she LOVES lately, outdoor time. Thanks for enjoying all those many, many baseball games. In fact, she likes them so much I can't get her in the house when we get home. She sits down on the front steps and pats her little hand so I'll sit down next to her. So cute.

Luckily, being the youngest fan she gets lots of attention from the other moms. She has no problem making new friends and they help entertain her and keep an eye on her. Helpful since the games go for over 2 hours sometimes. I think I'll actually miss going to them as the weather gets nicer. It's a great way to relax outside while the kids play, with something to watch (as well as chatting with other fans/friends).

Our Little Leaguer

2010-05-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

Tyson has had a great time playing Little League this year. Rick is his Manager (coach). He has improved in hitting, done well as catcher, and started some pitching. Their team has had some tough loses, but some big wins. It's been really fun and exciting to watch, especially when it's sunny! It's also been fun to watch Rick as a coach. He hasn't coached since Bradley was 3 (soccer). It's a great age to work with because the boys are serious, but teachable. Rick has loved doing it.

Bradley Plays Baseball

2010-05-09T14:46:00.000-07:00

Bradley is enjoying this season of Kent Parks Coach Pitch Baseball, being one of the star players (many of them are younger or have not played before). Bradley has a great swing and knows what to do when he plays the infield. He had two great hits at his game this weekend.

GO BRADLEY!

Talent Show Highlights

2010-05-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

Our Primary had a Talent Show. Kate, Bradley and Tyson all performed. Tyson decided to play the trumpet this time. He played 4 songs he learned in band at school. He had to rush off to a baseball game afterward.Pretty in pink.

"Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" dancers: Taylor, Sydney, Kate, Susie, and Ella. My friend, Kristen, a dance teacher, choreographed the dance.
Kate did better in the dress rehearsal, which I didn't record. I had forgotten to tell Andrea, the girl who was running the music that she needed to fade it out at the end. So the girls just kept spinning and spinning.

"Be a Friend" dancers: Tyler and Bradley. They choreographed most of the dance themselves. These are two boys that wouldn't even speak in the microphone at church until a year or two ago. I was so proud of them.

One of their signature moves.

Paige loved watching, on my knee.

It was a lot of fun, I was proud of all of them, I know how hard it is to get on stage in front of people (we had an audience of 50-75 people). For Bradley it was a little easier since I promised him $5 =-).

ROCK! The History of Rock and Roll

2010-05-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

Tyson's 5th/6th Grade class put on a play about the history of Rock and Roll. My parents and sister were able to attend. We watched along with the students. Tyson was Ed Sullivan and John Travolta. With a little help from the Value Village we got him all decked out. He really got into his characters after researching them on Youtube. He looked like a natural up there.

Meridian Elementary Talent Show 2010

2010-05-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

It took a little bribery ($10 cash), but Tyson braved his peers and perfomed a Jazz piano solo at his school's Talent Show.
He did a great job, even under pressure and looked stylin' in his new hat.
Way to go Tyson!They even had a nice little finale with all of the performers.

Off to D.C.

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

My parents came into town on Tuesday April 13th, to fly out to see my brother, Jeff, in D.C., the next day. They suggested that I come, I ended up booking a ticket on Friday and flew out, with Paige, on Sunday morning. Paige did really well on the plane, thanks to a really nice lady who entertained her and held even held her for the landing.

Sunday night we had dinner with the missionaries and a friend of Jeff's.

Monday morning we headed into downtown. Paige had her first bus ride. Then it was on to the Metro. Our first stop was the U.S. Capitol

Paige loved all the statues.

The weather was beautiful.

Next stop: Library of Congress, which was gorgeous. We saw Thomas Jefferson's phenomal library. We also toured the Supreme Court. Paige and I got kicked out, not sure if it was her acting up or the cell phone ringing simultaeously!

We went home early that night and had dinner at Jeff's apartment.

Tuesday: We stopped at the National Zoo. Paige loved all the animals. The weather was even better.

Paige was great about sitting in her stroller and taking naps in there. Luckily she loves to be out and about. Even after being out all day, she would cry when we'd take her inside.

Next Stop: White House Visitor Center. Paige cleaned the floors for them. Anything to keep her entertained. I enjoyed looking a pictures of the First families and ladies.

We stopped for dinner at the Reagan Center in the Federal Triangle. Paige got soaking wet in the fountain, but she didn't mind.

Jeff met up with us to tour the Portrait Gallery with art of/by people who was influenced America.

This was one of my favorite pieces. Also, a portrait of Joseph Smith. There happened to be a Jazz group performing that evening so we stayed and listened. It was relaxing and a nice atmosphere.

Before going home we had ice cream and walked through Chinatown. Wouldn't want to miss seeing a kitchen full of dangling chickens with their heads still on.

Wednesday: We took a break from DC and went up to Fredrick, MD. It was raining, but they had a great downtown area with shops and some beautiful bridges.

We met Rick's Mom and Barry for lunch at the Olive Garden. My parents and Paige had never met Barry. It was nice to have everyone together-Rick was there via cell phone.

Paige also got to meet their dogs, Cocoa and Java. She LOVED them.

We met Jeff at the National Naval Medical Center, where he works. He made impressions of my Mom for whitening trays. It was fun to watch Dr. Hoyle in action. I played assistant.

We went back to Jeff's and made cinnamonless cinnamon rolls bachelor pad style (the water bottle was the rolling pin). Paige and Grandpa had a early night; Mom, Jeff and I went shopping at Macys.

Thursday: We walked the National Mall, there was a big Earth Day celebration going on including a 'Save the Whale' demonstration. Collected freebie souveniers!

It was Smithsonian day. We went to the Hirshol Art Smithsonian and then took a snack break in the Smithsonian Gardens.

We spent a little while in the Air and Space Museam. It was very overcrowded, but I enjoyed the Wright Brothers display.

Paige was a trooper, but she did have her moments. This was her throwing a fit for an entire train full of people on the Metro. Video would have given better justice. It was quite a show.

There is a new Smithsonian called Native American. It was beautiful. They had exhibits for all the Indian tribes, including the Yakama Nation of Washington State. I loved the special exibit that featured art made of sports gear. Next, we met up with Jeff and toured the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. It's were all of our bills are printed (there and another plant in Dallas). It was probably my favorite thing to see. The day before the new $100 bill had been unveiled. It will come into circulation early 2011.

We got to watch people printing, inspecting, and packing real bills and a stack of a million dollars in $10 bills. I think I'll start stating my height in $100 bills, it sounds pretty high!

As the sun was setting we walked along the Mall some more.

I had never been to the WWII Memorial, and what a great evening for it.

Friday morning we drove through the Shenandoah Valley to Charlottsville, VA, were Monticello is (Thomas Jefferson's estate). There's a picture of it on the back of one of our coins... (check a nickel). Overlooking the estate was a phenomenal view.

Paige and I also got kicked off this tour, but we spied at Miss Virginia who was walking around and enjoyed the gardens. We had dinner at a cafe in downtown Charlottsville. Wow, what a nightlife, which wasn't too surprising since the University of Virginia is located there.

Saturday morning Paige and I packed up and then we all headed to Great Falls, in Virginia. It was a gorgeous cascading waterfall in a wonderful park. We enjoyed driving through the amazing neighborhood getting there.

We watched kayakers brave the trip down the rapids, crazy.

It was a perfect ending to a great trip. Paige was amazing on the flight home (mostly because she had her own seat, and she was exhausted from a long week).

A special THANKS to Rick, who took care of Tyson, Bradley and Kate all week.

Easter Events

2010-04-05T00:40:00.000-07:00

We headed down to Kent Station for the second year to the Easter Scavenger Hunt, Egg Hunt, and picture with the bunny.You would never guess that two seconds earlier Kate was screaming and bawling because she was scared of the bunny, even though she knew it was 'just a person dressed up like a bunny'-classic.

I headed up the neighborhood hunt again. This year we had about 24 hunters with 400+ eggs. It poured all day Friday and into the night. Luckily it was a dry morning, just wet grass.

Paige did quite well, she actually collected eggs instead of just opening the first one she got.

By the time we hit Kent Station Paige had a hard time being limited to her 5 eggs, she wanted them all.

We had bagels, muffins, donuts, and hot chocolate after the neighborhood hunt.

Later that night we did one at home. I decided that to make it fair for the girls Tyson should have his legs tied together and Bradley had one arm tied behind his back. They thought it was fun, and it worked out well.

It was Bradley's favorite hunt.

Kate loved her chocolate bunny and furbee baby.

Rick thought 3 egg hunts were a bit excessive, demeaning the real meaning of Easter. We debated this on the way down to Kent Station. Luckily Kate saved me by giving an accurate account of the Ressurection, completely impromtu. Pheww!

By the end of the night Paige had figured out which chocolates she could open herself so she didn't have to bother asking for assistance.

We ended the evening with egg coloring.

Sunday we watched conference and had the Hatch family over for Michelle's birthday dinner- Happy 37th sis....wow we're getting up there!

A Mouse in the House!!!!

2010-04-05T00:29:00.000-07:00

No, just Paige chewing through a stick of butter, April Fools!

We started putting in a new closet organizer on April Fools Day, so I told Kate we were emptying it out to be her new bedroom. She said "how are you going to fit my big bed (double) in here?" Turns out, she ended falling asleep in there...and we didn't even have to move a bed in for her!

But our best joke of the day was on Bradley.

He got plastic food in his lunch box courtesy of his brother!

There was also a note that said his real lunch was in a brown bag in his backpack. Apparently his teacher thought it was hilarious and showed the whole class.

Bradley's Big Baptism

2010-04-05T00:19:00.000-07:00

Bradley was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on March, 27, 2010. He was baptized at the same time as another classmate, Rachel. It was a nice service. His uncle Brian gave a great talk on the Gift of the Holy Ghost that he related to his GPS.

Afterwards, we had friends and family over for soup, salad, and dessert. It turned out the be a sunny day in March, though originally forecasted at 80% chance of rain. Instead we actually used the deck/yard which was great since there were over 40 people at the house!

Thanks to all who attended and made it a special day for him. We are so proud of you Bradley. You're really growing up.

My Spring Chicken

2010-04-04T23:52:00.000-07:00

I was planning a trip to the zoo with my family, but we spontaneously decided to pull the boys out of school an hour early to join us. It was a fun surprise. Good thing we took the boys out of school early... otherwise they might have missed out on their gravity lesson...

We went to the Woodland Park Zoo with my brother, Brian and son Zachary, Michelle and Spencer, and my parents. A little role reversal I'd say.
Just monkeying around.
It turned out to be a cool but sunny day. A lucky break in a crazy spring season of downpours.

The most entertaining animals of the day were the monkeys. There were two of them playing/fighting for a burlap bag. It was so funny to watch. There was quite a crowd all roaring when they would tease and bat at each other.

Cousins Spencer and Zachary with Kate.

This peacock certianly wasn't afraid. She put on quite a show.

Double Derby

2010-04-04T23:39:00.000-07:00

Bradley turned 8 just in time to join scouts and enter the pinewood derby this year. They (mostly Rick and Tyson) worked and worked on the cars. We pulled it off and at 7:50 and glue still drying they headed out the the weigh-in on Tuesday night (doors closed at 8:00).
They had a lot to live up to since Tyson won the whole thing last year.
They raced and raced... winning most, but a few second places...

Bradley ended up (after computer glitches and judging errors--we missed you Rich Haddock!) with first place in the Wolf Den.

Tyson got first place (was supposed to be second) in the Webelos Den.

Kate and Sydney hung out at the coloring table.

Paige learned how to climb and stand on the chairs.

Overall, it was kind of a bummer that the computers were down and the trophies got all mixed up, but the cars looked at raced great... a success.

Big 8 Bradley

2010-04-04T23:25:00.001-07:00

Bradley turned 8 on MARCH 9TH. He recently gave a poem during a school assembly for their virtue of the month, it was on Honesty.

Hanging out in the temporary playhouse (dishwasher box, courtesy of a friend).

We had a birthday party Monday night with Grandma and Grandpa Hoyle and the Hatch kids (their parents were on a cruise.)

He got CASH.... always a favorite gift. As well as two video games, scout stuff, baseballs, and a racetrack.

Kate was equally as excited...

On Bradley's actual birthday, he, Tyson, Rick, and I all went skiing at Crystal Mountain. It was Bradley's 2nd time. We took him on the real lifts and he did great. He was on and off the lift and up and down the mountain like a pro. It was really fun. Tyson is a great skier too. We had a great day. Thanks for watching the kids Mom.

Love Abounds

2010-03-08T22:09:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day 2010.... We had spinach stuffed manacotti and heard-shaped breadsticks for dinner. Tyson helped me make it. We've had a lot of fun cooking together on Sundays now that we have church from 1-4pm. We make something and put it in the oven to bake while we're gone. His goal is to make a whole meal by himself soon. I LOVE having his help/company in the kitchen.

Valentine's Eve: Rick and I went to a party with some friends. Tyson babysat (Paige slept). We came home to this. It was so sweet. Bradley was on the floor next to them. We had a fun morning as a family.

The boys all got new sneakers, Paige tried them on, while getting her fill of chocolate. My Valentine to her was a helium balloon. I knew she'd love it. It was also part of the center piece with some flowers for our dinner.

But they couldn't have been more excited about the Valentines' from Grandma and Grandpa Hoyle. After Kate saw her $4 dollar bills she shouted "I'm free!." Later, she said "I can buy ANYTHING I want!"

Showing off his 8 dollar bills. He was so happy that Grandma rounded up.

Paige helping herself to one of her favorite and most accessible foods. Thankfully she put something healthy in her body after all that chocolate.

The next two days were mid-winter break (shortened due to the teachers' strike in September). Monday, the kids played with their friends all morning, then we went to the Supermall as a family in the afternoon to rent skis and climb the wall. Tuesday the boys went skiing with Rick. It was Bradley's first time, and Tyson's 3rd.

I'm in BIG trouble

2010-02-22T23:23:00.000-08:00

So the kids and I are reading the Friend magazine for FHE tonight and there is a picture of a dog. Paige got excited about it. I said "if she can say doggie, I'll get one." Mind you, this is a 16 month old that can only say mom, dad, and hi-and not on command. Also, this is 3 other kids that REALLY want a dog. I had no idea that I had set myself up for disaster.
After about a minute, Paige said "Do die" WHAT?????
My poor kids were so excited, discussing what breed, when we'd go to the pet store...
until I dashed their hopes again, telling them they were only getting a stuffed animal.
OOPS!

Bargain Shoppers Lottery

2010-02-22T21:02:00.000-08:00

I am admittedly a bargain shopper through and through. I pretty much don't buy anything unless I feel like I'm getting a deal. In fact one of my new favorite websites is Common Sense With Money. I love Craigslist, garage sales, Ross, Target/Kohls clearance, the list goes on.

But today, my friend Tia and I got a great deal at Fred Meyer. We had picked out some earrings that were supposed to be 70% off clearance. Already a super deal at only $.99. But when we got to the register she had a pair that rang up for $.02! We had a little celebration-you'd thought we'd won the lottery- and then the gal rang me up and mine came up the same price. Grantid they were only $5 earrings to begin with, but still, that was 99.6% off. Probably my best deal ever! Cool, I'll wear them with pride!

Glamour Girls

2010-02-21T16:41:00.000-08:00

Kate and I had fun doing hair the other day while Paige napped. We both had on new outfits and decided to take some pictures just for fun.

Baby Don't You Cry, Gonna Make a Pie

2010-02-21T16:27:00.000-08:00

Kate and I made pies one Saturday evening while the boys were out and Paige was asleep. It reminded me of one of my favorite songs from the movie "The Waitress."

When the world is gray and bleak

Baby don't you cry

I will give you every bit of love that's in my heart

I will bake it up into a simple little pie

Baby don't you cry

Gonna make a pie

Gonna make a pie with a heart in the middle

Baby don't be blue

Gonna make for you

Gonna make a pie with a heart in the middle.

Gonna be a pie from heaven above

Gonna be filled with strawberry love

Baby don't you cry

Gonna make a pie

And hold you forever in the middle of my heart.

Baby here's the sun

Baby here's the sky

Baby I'm your light and I'm your shelter

Baby you are mine

I could freeze the time

Keep you in my kitchen with me forever

Gonna be a pie from heaven above

Gonna be filled with strawberry love

Baby don't you cry

Gonna make a pie

And hold you forever in the middle of my heart.

Gonna bake a pie from heaven above

Gonna be filled with butterscotch love

Gonna bake a pie from heaven above

Gonna be filled with banana creme love

Baby don't you cry

Gonna bake a pie

Hold you forever

And hold you forever in the middle of my heart.

You can listen to it here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avg8EjzWHZc

Paige LOVES....

2010-02-21T14:42:00.000-08:00

to try on everyone's shoes (this is her favorite pair, Kate's friend Susie's boots).

to help mommy (stirring eggs; an act of bravery on my part!)

to eat by herself using utensils. Actually the ONLY way she will eat.

to wear bows in her hair. Oh wait, maybe that's my favorite thing. This is her new hairstyle. Everyone has been commenting how grown-up she looks.

to dance to music. She is very proud when she turns on the IPOD all by herself.

to get her own snacks. Pouring a bowl of her favorite cereal, Oatmeal Squares.

to sit in the fridge and turn off the light.

to do everything Mom and Dad do. We had just finished fixing this cabinet when she found a tool and started imitating.

to PLAY!

to go outside. She wants to walk or go on stroller rides at all hours and in any weather. Let's go Mom!

to be Mommy's little helper......and oh what help it is! We love you, Paige.