Gilbride Family

January--fun or no fun?

2012-01-31T13:04:00.000-08:00

January is a very different month for me. There are times when I really like it, and times when I do not. Some years it is very cold, the kids go crazy, and it's boring and long with no holidays or breaks to look forward to. However, this January has been a really good one. It has been slower but I've really enjoyed that. December was so busy that I'm really enjoying the slower pace. We have, however, still been having a lot of fun. So here are some pictures of what we've been up to this month:

Katelyn watching a movie on the computer with her toys and crackers
(She's saying "fromage"--it's a Phineas & Ferb thing)

Building her tower--Doofenshmurtz Evil Incorporated

Lauren and Katelyn playing with play-doh

Me and James out to dinner

Katelyn and me playing with squinkies during a.m. carpool

Lauren and James enjoying a Saturday afternoon nap

Katelyn does a few cheers

Katelyn recieves a new Monkey body pillow

Lauren helps her new dog bodypillow with a few cheers

Lauren at her Wednesday Show What You Know Assembly

Katelyn creates havoc on the stairs

Lauren and James enjoying the Grizzly Game

Most of our fun has been indoors after school or on the weekends. However, James and I have managed to sneak away on dates or take the girls out for some fun. It's been a good month and there's lots more fun up-ahead so stay tuned.

New Year's Eve 2011

2012-01-02T09:30:00.000-08:00

Looking back over the past 12 months, I am amazed at all the exciting and wonderful moments and experiences I have had. I am filled with gratitude for the incredible life I have! There have been birthdays, camping trips, vacations to Disneyland, school and awards, holiday fun, playing with friends, and a Greek Isle Cruise. But there have also been those precious and cherised moments of watching my children succeed, hearing them giggling together, and having serious and meaningful conversations with them.
In truth, there is a part of me that is sad to see the end of this year, welcoming in a New Year means my children will only be growing up and becoming more independant. However, this New Year has so many possiblities and exciting times just waiting to be experienced. One of my New Year's Resolutions is to be in the moment. I have come to realize that moments are exactly what make up a life. There are periods of stress and strife, struggle and drudgery, but there are moments of happiness, joy, excitement, and pure bliss. And these moments are those things that we cling to and hold in our hearts. So this year, I am going to live in the moment and savore it completely!

So we celebrated the coming of this New Year with our annual crab fest! (A tradition we enjoy almost as much as Christmas). We had a blast and enjoyed every last second of 2011. Here's the proof:

Going out to eat lunch with family

Then getting our crab dinner all ready

Look at those good-looking legs!

Just waiting to be cooked

Let's dig in!

Ron and Nicole enjoy the crab

The kids have their own feast
(which didn't stop them from beging crab off their parents)

Lauren with her "claw"

The kids cuddled up watching tv

This was the first year in many years that James and I have actually stayed awake for the New Year. It was so much fun to be with family and enjoy celebrating the beginning of a New Year. Our family wishes each of you a wonderful and prosperous 2012!!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-28T08:53:00.000-08:00

Wow, what an amazing Christmas vacation we've had! Lauren had been counting down the days until her 18 days off. It's hard to believe that's it's all over and she's back to school today. We had so much fun. Christmas was fantastic and it was the best being at home, being together, and playing, playing, playing!! Here's some of the highlights:

Christmas Eve

Lauren digging through her stocking

Katelyn opens her 1st present

Lauren RIPS off her wrapping

Wow, it's a barbie to go with my new Barbie house!

Another gift for me?

DOMINOES!

Let's get it out of the box

Playing with all of our fun toys!

Mom, this is the best dog ever!

I always wish I would have gotten more pictures, but I get too carried away having fun and enjoying everything to remember to take more pictures. The rest of the day was just playing with all of our fun stuff and watching movies. I think this one will go down in the books as BEST CHRISTMAS EVER!! (until next year at least) ;)

Over the River and Through the Woods to Grandmother's house we go

2011-12-22T08:57:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, we drove to Palm Springs to spend a few days with James' Grandma (mine too, of course!) Monday morning we woke up early (too early for Katelyn who was finally put into the car in her jammies and without hair being combed) and piled into the car and drove into Disneyland for the day. What a fun day! Here are my favorite pictures of the visit:

Taking the tram into the park

Riding Small World--the girls fought over who got to be next to Grandma

Soup Bowls dockside for lunch

Katelyn and James on the Wildest Train in the Wilderness

Lauren mid scream (LOVE this picture)

Katelyn and Grandma playing

Swimming at Grandma's pool

Home Sweet Home

We sure had a great time visiting with Grandma. We are so glad we will be seeing her in February for her 90th birthday party! Thanks for all the fun Grandma!

Viva Las Vegas

2011-12-17T08:50:00.000-08:00

Saturday the 17th, our nephew Jonah was baptized. It was wonderful to be able to go and support him on his big day. Jonah is such a sweetheart and we were glad to be there with him.

Jonah right before his Baptism

It was also great spending time with the rest of the family. Christmas came a little early from Grandma and all the kids had a blast playing with the toys.

Tyler's wrestling cage

Dylan helps Landon with his blocks

Jonah and his remote control truck

We always love spending time with family. Thanks for the great times Nicole!

Katelyn's Preschool Christmas Program

2011-12-15T08:43:00.000-08:00

Katelyn's preschool class had a Christmas Presentation on Thursday the 15th. It was really cute and so fun to watch. Katelyn is a great little performer.

Katelyn before the program

talking to Santa afterwards

Sitting on Santa's lap

Sitting on Aunt Kristens' lap---thanks for coming!

Katelyn did a great job singing her songs and reciting the poems. Best of all, we recieved her first report card! She is doing fantastic! The best part was reading the teachers notes explaining that Katelyn is listening well, has good manners, and is kind to everyone. (to me that counts almost more than her actual school work) She is reading to start reading and adding! Way to go Katelyn! We are so proud of you!!!

Family Pictures

2011-12-06T16:55:00.000-08:00

The Saturday after Thanksgiving, my family all got together for family pictures. It was really great being with all of my siblings and their spouses and children. It was so fun to see how much our family has grown over the past almost 10 years. We've added 6 spouses and 12 grandkids. What fun to all be together and have some fantastic pictures to prove it! So here are my favorite pictures:

My beautiful family

Close-up of my beautiful family

My parents and siblings

My parents, siblings and their spouses (mine too)

My parents, siblings and spouses and kids

The whole "Merrell" family

Happy Grandparents with their 12 grandkids

I LOVE the pictures. My only regret is not having more pictures of my individual family. But what a wonderful time we had visiting, catching up, and being together.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-29T17:55:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving at home. It was quiet and relaxing and great to think about all the things I'm grateful for; which is a lot! I definitely am grateful for all the usual things like my husband, my children, my home, my neighborhood complete with wonderful and helpful neighbors and friends. But I'm also so grateful for so many small things that really add to the quality of my life (but take WAY too long to mention) But, I do love Thanksgiving and the time it affords to look back on the year and reflect on all that I have and am so grateful for.
I also LOVE all of the many traditions surrounding the holidays. I had fun with a few firsts like, making stuffing from scratch, brining a turkery (James did most of this one), and making a coconut cream pie. Lauren was SUCH a great helper and basically made the entire crust herself. I just had to help her put it into the pan.

As always, I am always amazed at the prep, work, effort, and time (and let's be honest and say mess) that goes into making ONE meal and how quickly it is eaten and over with, and just how long it takes to clean up afterwards. But it's all worth it!

After watching some t.v. and napping (by James) it was good to visit my sister-in-law and her family and gorge ourselves on pie! (I think there were more pies than people). There was no Black Friday shopping for me, but thanks to Carolynn, James and I headed out at 9:30 to go see Hugo. Fun movie with a great story but just a little slow and long (especially at the end of such a busy day)

Then Friday, after a gourmet meal of sausage, eggs, and Crepes--compliments of James; it was putting up the Christmas tree and decorations. The girls were great helpers and made a huge mess. I always wonder why it is that you always seem to make a bigger mess when you're cleaning and/or rearranging things! But it was SO fun to have the Christmas music blaring, the girls singing along, and all of us hanging ornaments together. And the house looked so nice when we were all finished. (and the house was re-vacuumed)

Saturday morning we pulled the girls out of bed and into the car and drove out to Lapoint to be with my family. ALL 6 of us siblings were able to be together for family pictures. It was so fun being together and watching the cousins playing together. Grandma played card games with the grandkids that were old enough, and Lauren and Katelyn were in HEAVEN (it probably helped that they won the first 2 games) It was a lot of fun times being together!

Then Sunday we were able to be to the blessing of my newest neice, Avarie. She looked so beautiful and tiny in her gorgeous dress her Mom made. Then of course, there was more food and visiting. Of course, the trip was over all too quickly and it was back home for us.

What a wonderful and amazing 4 day weekend! I have such an incredible life and I LOVE it all!

And just in case you were disappointed there were no pictures.. ..here are some to enjoy:

Lauren's pie crust

Sitting around talking

Grandma helps Katelyn

Grandma helping the grandkids play Disney's Sorry

Tyler has a ball by himself

Grandpa helps Mikel with the screwdriver

Katelyn and Suzie playing

Katelyn plays ball with Grandpa

Grandma and Lauren finish up their game

Our 1st Snowman of the Season

2011-11-24T09:19:00.000-08:00

We woke up Saturday monring to beautiful snow landscape

Of course, this means playing in it before breakfast
Lauren makes a snow angel

Katelyn makes one too

Hiding out in the "fort" waiting to throw snowballs at me

Katelyn rolls her snowball

Lauren rolls hers too

Very proud of our 1st snowman!

I have to admit being very childlike when it comes to snow. I love seeing the snow fall and how magical everything looks all covered in snow. I can't wait to rush out the door in the mornings after a good night of snowfall. I love watching how excited my girls get at the sight of snow as well and how magical it all is from trying to catch snowflakes on your tongue, to throwing snowballs, to making snow angels, to building snowmen, and my girls' favorite: eating snow.

My sweetheart

2011-11-22T12:15:00.000-08:00

Lauren has always loved expressing her love through drawings. She is now getting really good at writing love letters. We sure enjoy all her artworks and letters. She is such a sweetheart! (and a Daddy's girl!)

"Award for James and Kathy Gilbride"
She drew this picture for us and taped it on our wall.

She painted this beautiful rainbow for me another day

One day Dad came home to find this sweet note on his bed
"I love you Daddy so much that I can kiss you all day
and the next day or for a week. I love you Daddy"

Lauren's 1st Grade picture

My Big Girl

2011-11-20T11:44:00.000-08:00

Katelyn is just really growing up! She is learning so much at preschool and is such a big helper at home. She is my best friend, my shopping buddy, and my personal comedian. I am so grateful I still have her at home to enjoy.

My "Big Helper" helping herself to some peanut butter while making cookies

Our chocolate with peanut butter middle cookies.
Katelyn helps by "squashes" the cookies

Katelyn received a certificate in preschool
for knowing all the letters and their sounds

She has enjoyed practicing writing on her marker board

She is getting so good at writing

Katelyn's preschool picture

Halloween 2011

2011-11-18T11:44:00.000-08:00

We had a very fun Halloween but I wish I would have taken more pictures. Here are a few to enjoy:

Lauren drives the tractor at the pumpkin patch

Katelyn's turn to drive

Back to the house to decorate our pumpkins:
Katelyn chooses glow-in-the dark stickers

While Lauren takes a stab at carving hers

Katelyn's preschool Costume Parade

Katelyn's witches treat bag and coffin candy case

Katelyn decides to wear her p.j's to go trick-or-treating
thankfully it was a warm night

Lauren wears her wings

The trick-or-treating duo all ready to go beg for candy :)

We had a blast walking around the neighborhood trick-or-treating. It was a very nice night and the weather was very mild this year. We also enjoyed being with our neighbors and recieving lots of fun treats.

A little fall fun

2011-10-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few fun things we've been up to lately!

Lauren's first science project. An underwater habitat. We had so much fun making this!

I asked Lauren to change out of her uniform and this is what she changed into.

Not to be left out, Katelyn has to change into a skirt as well.

Lauren advanced a reading level, so we went out for ice-cream.

The girls still like to dress-up and run around playing princess and/or fairies

Katelyn got her shoes and socks wet in the puddles from the rain,
so while we waited for Lauren in the carpool line, she put her feet up
to the heater to dry out.

Katelyn insisted on taking a picture of me as well

Katelyn and James take a nice Saturday afternoon nap

Decided to drive the Alpine Loop to see the Fall Colors.
There was a little construction on the way. Can you see the white sign

How about now? Thought this was too funny not to get a picture of.

starting up through the canyon. Did you see that sky today? Talk about blue!

The sun peeking over the mountains

Loved all the colors!

Grove of quaking aspens

Cute little camping spot

Loved the "blanket" of colors

What a beautiful world we live in!

Loved the canyons!

Loved the mountains with the snow!

I love this time of year! The days are still warm and you can be outside where all the colors are changing. The cooler weather has brought colds to our house, but hopefully, we are at the end of it and we can get back to enjoying this wonderful weather.

The Flood

2011-10-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

About 2 weeks ago the day started out like any other day. I woke up Lauren and she cried that she didn't want to go to school but I got her dressed anyways, and tried to feed her breakfast (but she wouldn't eat) and when it was time to go to school, James asked if Lauren wanted him to take her to school. She said "yes" (of course, she wanted some extra time with Dad) So I hugged her goodbye, told her I loved her and would be there to pick her up as soon as school was over and reassured her school would be fun and she would have a great day. **Ever since Lauren started 1st grade, she's had a hard time adjusting to being at school ALL day. (I have to admit it's hard for me to have her gone that long. I find myself constantly looking at the clock and wondering why the day is taking so long to get 3:30**

About 10 minutes after they left, the phone rings, it's James. Lauren forgot her backpack so I need to bring it to school. So I get Katelyn in the car and we rush it down to her. Thankfully we got there before the bell even rang and everything was fine. So Katelyn and I come home and play and ride around the block and then decide to go get a little shopping done. So we get in the car and get to the first store where as soon as we get inside my cell phone rings. It's James. He wants to know if I received the message from Lauren's school. "no, what's wrong?" "The secondary water pipes have burst and their evacuating the school, you need to go pick her up." So I turn right around, put Katelyn in the car and rush back over to the school.

Lauren is happy to see me but doesn't really talk about what happened other than there was water in the school and they needed to leave. Once home, she changes right back into her jammies and eats her sack lunch in front of the tv.

Lauren didn't end up having school the next day which was Thursday or Friday and then not either Monday or Tuesday. The secondary pipe that had burst was right under the 3rd grade classroom and when it burst, the pressure cracked the concrete foundation and sent cracks all through the floor and even up the walls in that room. It only took a few minutes for the dirty water to quickly spread down the halls and into all the classrooms. There was enough water damage that all the baseboards down the halls and in the classrooms had to be removed. Not only that, but everything off all the classroom walls had to come down and the bottom section of drywall had to be taken off and new drywall reattached. Parents were asked to come into the school on Tuesday to help put everything back together--especially putting up all the bulletin boards onto the walls.

Wednesday Lauren started back to school. She seemed fine in going and didn't cry about having to go to school. However, when I picked her up that afternoon she told me that her math classroom was still torn-up and it really scared her and she was worried there was going to be another flood. So she started crying and her math papers got all wet from her tears. I told her I was so sorry she was scared but was so glad that she was safe and there wasn't another flood. The next morning, Lauren REFUSED to go to school. She kicked and cried and wouldn't get dressed and refused to eat breakfast. I felt terrible, but with school already being cancelled for a week, I couldn't let her miss any more school. So I got her dressed and ready anyways. She cried the entire 10 minute drive to school. So I told her I would ask her teachers if I could sit in the back of the classroom for a little while and if it was okay with them, I would stay for awhile. She dried her tears and said it was a good idea.

So I walked Lauren into school and asked her teachers if I could sit in the back of the classroom. Her teacher thought it was a good idea. Apparently the day of the flood, Lauren was in her math group in her math classroom and when the alarm went off for the flood, Lauren ran screaming and crying from the room and the math teacher had to run after her. It took her 40 minutes to calm Lauren down. Then yesterday, the first day back after the flood, Lauren cried all during math, she was scared the flood would happen again and she was scared our house was flooding. So yes, sitting with Lauren during school was a good idea. I ran Katelyn to preschool and came back to sit in with Lauren. She did really great during reading and was fine until it was over, then started crying. When I asked her what was wrong, she said she didn't want me to leave. I told her I would stay until Math was almost over because that was when I HAD to pick Katelyn up from preschool. Lauren smiled and was fine during recess and P.E. She got really nervous when it came time for Math. The classroom was still scary looking as the walls hadn't been fixed since the flood. Lauren kept looking back to me every 3 minutes terrified I was leaving. Her eyes were red and tears would drip down her cheeks and she would quickly brush them away and continue working. (Lauren had been asking to take her work home because she didn't like not being the first one finished. But that day Lauren finished before most of the other kids) She was finished in enough time to be a "helper" and help those who were still working. She looked fine when it was time for me to leave. I blew her a kiss and left to go get Katelyn. When I picked her up from school she seemed just fine.

The next few days were still a little rough. Lauren still didn't like getting up and going to school and complained about having to be gone from home all day. She said she was still a little nervous about another flood. I don't know how many times and hours we've spent talking about "the flood" and about her being safe. We have also had a lot of prayers to keep her safe and to make her brave in being able to go to school and not be scared. Almost 2 weeks have passed since "the flood" and it seems like we are starting to be okay again.

I have to admit that I have spent more time worrying about her these past 2 weeks than I have the rest of her life. Lauren is normally such an easy going girl. I've never worried about leaving her anywhere before. She has always been one of those kids you could leave anywhere and with anyone and they were always happy. Seeing Lauren afraid and clingy was just so sad and hard on me. I think I cried almost everyday I dropped her off at school. It was so sad seeing her cry and then having to drop her off and drive away. Thankfully, the tears always stopped as she got out of the car and were dried by the time she walked into school. I think we are past the worst of it now and hope it will only get better as the year continues on.

We LOVE camping!!!

2011-09-20T12:37:00.000-07:00

Last week we went camping to Deer Creek Reservoir. This is the first place we ever took our motor home and the kids had SO much fun. We just HAD to go back this year and it was fatastic!

Our camping spot

James getting us all hooked up with sewer, electricity, and hot water---so nice!!

The girls had so much fun riding their bikes all over the campground

and enjoyed climbing up onto the bunks for snacks

Katelyn couldn't bear to leave her toys home and made sure to keep them comfy at all times

We enjoyed coloring and playing with Bend-a-roos during the afternoons when it rained

The girls LOVED all the rocks and enjoyed climbing up the boulders

And they had to get their feet wet

oops, just a little more got wet than their feet

What?!?! We didn't get wet.

Instead of walking, they enjoyed sitting with their feet in the water

A little sisterly love

Katelyn LOVES to have people carry her around

A gorgeous view of the "lake"

Lauren and Katelyn watching a movie in their "movie theater"

No camping trip would be complete without roasting marshmallows

and just sitting and talking around the campfire

We had 3 days and 2 nights of camping fun. I think Deer Creek is the perfect place to camp. It's just an hour away (with no steep or winding canyons to drive through), there are the boats to watch, the water to play in, beaches with rocks to throw into the water, paths and trails to wander and plenty of paved road to ride bikes. There is also a covered pavilion for each site, fire-pits, and grills not to mention all the hook-ups to make camping so luxurious! We had a blast and are so glad we were able to have another camping trip before the weather turns cold. Maybe, just, maybe we can squeeze in one more trip! (if not, we just may pretend camp in our own yard).

Snapshots of Daily Life

2011-09-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

To celebrate my 300th post, I decided it would be fun to post snapshots of our daily life. There are so many simple things that I enjoy about my life that I never get in pictures. So I decided to snap pictures of some of my favorite simple moments.

Each morning I LOVE seeing these cuties in my rear view mirror when I back out of the garage

Watching Katelyn putting a puzzle together when it's just me and her at home

Seeing her sleeping while waiting in the long hot carpool line for Lauren

Lauren getting the mail after school

I just had to get this close-up of her hair. I LOVE her hair (I admit I'm a little jealous)

Seeing Lauren dancing around in her uniform

Katelyn drawing me pictures

Lauren working so hard on her homework

Seeing Lauren's cute play dough creations

And Katelyn's too!

Brushing teeth

and in jammies ready for bed

Life is so sweet and I love each moment I have with these two cuties!! In fact, just the other day Katelyn asked me to make a wish. I never thought that question would be so difficult. I couldn't think of anything to wish for; except to maybe just enjoy each moment a little more.

Labor Day Fun

2011-09-07T19:38:00.000-07:00

Since Labor Day turned out to be a little overcast and cooler, we decided it was the perfect day to go up Big Cottonwood Canyon for a hike. There were many others who had similar thoughts as the canyon was filled with cars, bikes, and hikers. We had originally thought we'd take one of the trails near Silver Lake but when we arrived at the crowded parking lot, decided to continue on a little further up. We ended up taking the mile hike up to Mary's Lake. I am SO glad that we did. It was absolutely gorgeous. These kind of days are my FAVORITE. Here are a few snapshots of our adventure:

Holding hands and talking

Crossing a rock bridge (so exciting for kids)

Enjoy the gorgeous view--well worth the hike!

A little bit of work

Happy to be picking flowers and throwing rocks

Exploring the shore

I'm queen of the rock & I'm going fishing with this stick

James' thoughtful spot

skipping off to climb that big rock

hiking up the BIG rock

What breathtaking views

Posing for a picture in the wildflowers

I just LOVE the scenery

LOVE this scene too

Mickey Mouse hill

It was such a nice day. We slept in, ate breakfast all together, lounged, then had our wonderful hike, a nice dinner, and then baths, popcorn balls and a movie! What a FANTASTIC day!! It was the best!

1st Days Back to School

2011-08-30T12:10:00.000-07:00

Katelyn's 1st day of Preschool at Summit Academy was Thursday, August 25, 2011. She started before Lauren (who stayed home with Grandma so Katelyn and I could have a special morning together) and was really excited to go to school and wear her school uniform.

Katelyn in the customary Back To School picture in front of our door

Showing off her new school bag

Standing outside her school doors

Having her teacher "Miss Nikki" putting on her name sticker

In front of her cubby (yellow star 6)

Playing on the mat with the castle

Katelyn did so great marching right into her room and getting all settled into her school routine. Her Aunt (who teaches at the school) came and checked up on Katelyn and reports that Katelyn did really great her first day and when the teacher asked who should talk when the teacher is talking, Katelyn raised her hand and said "nobody"

Katelyn in line walking out to carpool

Being escorted to the car

Climbing up into her seat after her very first day

Katelyn had such a fun time and could even tell me the names of 3 girls and boys that she had played with that day. She LOVES school and is so excited for her next class. (She goes every Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:30-11:30)

Lauren started 1st grade this year! She attends American Preparatory Academy and has Miss Ruff as a teacher. This year Lauren gets to go the ENTIRE day and gets to eat her sack lunch at her desk every day. She was excited to be going back to the same school as last year (this is a first) and already knows half the kids in her class. It was so nice going into her classroom and seeing some familiar faces as well as good friends. Especially her friend Laurel ("it's just like Lauren ,only an 'l' at the end instead of an 'n'" according to Lauren)

Lauren in the traditional Back to School pose in front of the door

Standing next to her desk in her classroom

Sitting in her class line in the Multi-Purpose room

So excited to be joined by her friends Laurel and Tanner

Lauren waiting during carpool

Climbing into her seat after the ENTIRE day of 1st grade

Lauren didn't seem quite as happy as she normally does after school. She said the best part about school was her 3 recesses and lunch (I think she really only has 2 recesses and had PE). She said she kept falling down at recesses and got a few bruises. She seemed pretty melancholy but she wouldn't really talk about her day.

The next morning Lauren wouldn't get out of bed. When I tried to get her dressed she pushed and kicked and cried "I don't want to go to school, I don't want to go to school" It broke my heart seeing her like that and not wanting to go. I felt terrible about making her get dressed and off to school anyways. I tried to make it as fun as possible in getting dressed and ready for school but she wouldn't smile. Then when we arrived at the school she said that the reason she didn't want to go to school was because yesterday they had a fire drill. Fire drills really scare Lauren. She is terrified of loud noises and the possibility of fire. She HATES fireworks and is terrified someone or something will catch on fire. I hope that is all that was really bugging her! I asked if she wanted me to walk her into school and she did. When we got there she was really good about taking out her school work and sitting right down at her desk. I quietly told her teacher that Lauren was having a rough day and she assured me she would take good care of Lauren. I am really hoping Lauren has a great day today!!

Katelyn and Lauren pose outside our door

Tuesday both Lauren and Katelyn were having their 2nd day of school. I tried to get Lauren to at least smile for pictures and this was all I could get. I was grateful Katelyn was so happy and excited for preschool. I am hoping that the adjustment from half-day Kindergarten to full-day 1st grade won't be so bad. Tomorrow is a short day so hopefully that will help. My fingers are crossed that when I pick Lauren up from school today that she had a much better day and will be much happier about going to school tomorrow! Here's hoping!

Summer Wrap-Up

2011-08-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

I LOVE summer. . .especially this summer. There has been something magical about our lazy days. I think it's because I have never had a busier school year and summer break was much needed and very much looked forward too. This year the girls seemed to be able to play much better together and played a lot more with friends. It was so fun having friends over and going over to friends, riding bikes up and down the sidewalk with friends every night, bbq's, dinner with friends, swimming, playing, park days, and days just filled with being able to do what we wanted, when we wanted.

Here are a few of the things we've been up to the past few weeks:

Lauren & Katelyn earned bean bags

One night they even had a bean-bag sleepover

After dinner one night while driving around we saw these

so we went up to the park for a closer view

we sat in the grass, listened to music, and watched in awe as they took off

and landed with the sunset

Katelyn and Lauren enjoyed having their faces painted

and eating snow cones at our friends neighborhood block party

the girls used old mattresses and made forts and wrestled

and made sidewalk paint and painted the driveway

We went with friends to a car show

and looked at a lot of fun cars

we had a yummy lunch

and more snow cones

we even got our picture taken with the bull from K-bull 93

Man, he's big! Did I mention we had popcorn too?

and took a tour of the firetruck. What a fun time!

We even went to the "beach" for our last park day

Katelyn and Lauren LOVED digging trenches in the sand

Lauren was very particular

and Katelyn kept her eyes on everyone

What fun playing in the sand with friends!

Summer vacation is officially over for us. Thank goodness the weather is still warm so we can fit in more fun activities!

James the Juror

2011-08-19T15:02:00.000-07:00

About 2 months ago, James received a letter in the mail requesting his services for Federal Jury Duty. A few weeks later he reported to the courthouse at his appointed time. An entire 8 hours later, James calls to inform me he was picked as a juror on a 5 week case for a doctor accused of over-prescribing pain medications.

For 5 weeks James has spent from 8-3 at the courthouse only to drive to his work and continue working from 3-6 at his work. Most nights after coming home, he continued working and catching up on business emails he didn't have time to answer earlier.

The past few days have been the important wrapping up of the case with 3 hour closing arguments on each side and then 19+ hours deciding guilty or not-guilty on 84 charges. (The first day it took 5 hours to decide 7 counts which took until after 10 p.m. The next day from 8-10 p.m. on the remaining 77). After coming home past midnight last night, poor James is completely worn out. He is very much emotionally exhausted. James literally held the future of this man's life (and that of his family's) in his hands, and it was not something he took lightly, but rather put his whole heart and soul into.

I have never been selected to serve on a jury (though I did have to report once and was not chosen) and after watching James go through it, I have so much more respect for the people who are so willing to serve on juries everyday all over our country. It is so time-consuming and inconvenient, yet such an important civic duty.

I am so very proud of James for his willingness to serve, to give so much thought and consideration to every single detail and to be so fair. There are so many things that I love and admire about James. He has SO many wonderful qualities and among them is his ability to think through situations logically and fairly. He is the most brilliant person I have had the pleasure of knowing. He is also one of the most compassionate and most fair. He has such drive and determination and never lets go of what he wants and is working for. Not only did he go to court everyday, go to his work and keep up on business, but he also made sure that he had time to be with me and our children. During this time, he and I went on dates, he took the girls on Daddy-daughter dates, and he sat outside and watched the girls riding their bikes up and down the sidewalk almost every night. I am constantly amazed at is ability to manage and organize his time and complete so many projects. He is one amazing man! One that I truly admire, respect, and love so deeply. Thank you, James, for all of your hard work, dedication, and time. I am SO proud of you!

PS. For anyone wanting more information about the case, you can read it here

My current hobby

2011-08-10T12:38:00.000-07:00

The past couple of weeks I have started a new hobby. It all started a few weeks ago when I walked into Walmart for my weekly shopping trip. There was a brand new line of clothing called Bella Bird. The shirts were longer in length, had 1/2 sleeves, and a v-neck (but not low cut) I have really LOVED the longer sleeve because they hide my arms so I couldn't resist purchasing a pretty rose colored shirt as well as one white shirt. They seemed just a little plain so I decided I could easily add a little something to them to spice them up and make them a little unique.

So I searched through the craft aisle and found some pretty trim that matched the rose t-shirt perfectly. Since I am not great at sewing and didn't really see a way to sew on the seam without the stitches showing, decided to buy some Liquid Stitch since I had heard wonderful things about it. I can see why and it is my new love! The left bottom shirt is the rose colored shirt with coordinating trim. I think it turned out kinda fun!

My new fun shirts

The start of it all. The plain white "t"

The white t-shirt ended up being a little see through so I decided that since I didn't really care for the other color of the shirts offered there at Walmart and since I loved the shirt, that I would just go ahead and buy some RIT dye and color the shirt the color I wanted. So that's just what I did. I purchased some yellow RIT dye and colored my shirt. However, same problem.. . .the shirt seemed a little plain. I have seen a lot of fun shirts with flowers and decided I might be able to make something similar. So I headed over to Hobby Lobby and browsed the craft section and found a roll of flower trim for only $2.50. I purchased it in white so I could dye the flowers any color I wanted. So I cut off a couple of flowers and dyed them yellow. Then I used my liquid stitch to attach them. Voila! Another fun unique t-shirt.

So then I purchased a couple more shirts and a couple more bottles of dye and went to work coloring and customizing my shirts. I think they are fun and am excited for some new shirts.

This blue shirt was purchased in that color. However, I found instructions for cute felt brooches and had to make one in white. So I attached the brooch to this shirt to show it off :) Of course, I have purchased other colors of felt and plan on making many more felt flower brooches.

Of course, I couldn't stop there either. I found a really cute scrunch belt tutorial on one of the blogs I love and just had to make it. So another trip to Hobby Lobby to get supplies.

Finished belt

Belt with outfit

I think I like it (but without the green leaves). I also think I'm going to have to make a few more in a few more colors. It has been so fun to have a few extra things to spice up my current wardrobe. I have been enjoying these little projects and get excited to try fun new things.

Everyday Life

2011-08-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

I though it would be fun to do a post about all the little things we do everyday. There are SO many things about ordinary everyday life that I love and cherish (not to mention take for granted some days) So I thought it would be fun to share some of the things that make up our daily life.

I think this summer will be remembered as the summer of the bikes. It has been so fun to go bike riding at least once everyday. Often however, we are at the church parking lot in the mornings and then on our sidewalk in the evenings. Since Lauren and Katelyn are so fast, but still need a little help, I decided I would roller blade so I could stay right there next to them. Turns out to be lots of fun!

Katelyn riding her bike while Mom rollerblades next to her

After I wore my roller blades, Lauren decided she needed to wear hers the next day

Katelyn riding her bike down the sidewalk

Even the weather can't put a damper on our fun, we just have to change it up:

A little afternoon hail storm

After running through the rain and hail in swimming suits, Katelyn comes inside for cake

These are those fun Cake-in-a-mug chocolate cakes.

Lauren just likes the cool-whip. (so I helped her with the cake--good thing I didn't make my own)

The girls do so many funny things around the house. I love listening to them making up stories, playing house, dressing up, and rocking out to music. They are so much fun and keep me smiling and laughing.

Katelyn shows off her sense of style

Katelyn building her castle

Even running errands can be a lot of fun!

Lauren and Katelyn receiving "Back to school" haircuts! FINALLY!!!

Katelyn's cute updo

Lauren didn't want an updo

Lauren experienced her first flat bicycle tire. So I took her bike to the local bike store and had it fixed. But while we were there, we couldn't help posing with the mannequins and looking around.

Lauren and "Taylor"

Katelyn and her mannequin friend

Katelyn takes a minute to play in the "spot" at Target

And after some shopping, Lauren and Katelyn look around Petco

Saturdays are my FAVORITE day because we always spend it having fun as a family. Whether it is making our own meals or going out to eat we always have a good time.

Lunch at Pie Pizzeria

Look at my stretchy cheese

Yummy!!!

I LOVE my life. Each day is filled with something wonderful and special. Summer has been so wonderful. We have had SO much fun just playing and being together. I have loved hearing all the laughter, giggling, and talking (sometimes way past bedtime) and I am going to miss the care-free fun of summer when school begins at the end of the month!

And she's off. . . .

2011-07-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

on her bike that is, and without training wheels! Katelyn and Lauren have been riding their bikes on the sidewalk basically every single night. They love going up and down the sidewalk (or around the block if we're feeling generous) and beg to ride bikes ALL the time. Katelyn has been going so fast and her training wheels have been moving all over the place. It looked like she wasn't relying on them to ride her bike so we wondered if she could ride without them. Since James had the 24th of July off from work, we decided to take her to the church parking lot and try 2-wheeled riding.

Katelyn was so excited to try! She wanted to ride her bike with the training wheels on one last time down to the church, then we could take the training wheels off there and then she could practice without them. So that's what we did. James took off the training wheels and Katelyn jumped onto her bike. I held the seat and she began riding. She was so good that I instantly let go and just started running beside her. I could hardly believe it. Even though I knew Katelyn was really good and was probably ready, it was still amazing seeing how quickly she caught on and how fast she was riding. I think I didn't want her to be ready, because I don't want to be ready to let go of my little girl just yet.

Katelyn was flying around the parking lot all by herself in no time and it was fun to just sit and watch her ride all by herself. After lots of riding we decided it was time to go home and the girls begged to ride their bikes home. So James followed Lauren and I went with Katelyn. Katelyn was doing really great, but riding on a sidewalk takes a little more practice. So I ended up jogging while holding onto her handle bars so she could still keep peddling but stay on the sidewalk. She did a great job and was even able to do short bursts of doing it alone.

Great job Katelyn we are so proud of you!!!

PS. Here is a link to the youtube video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muL_9aWOEjE

Catching some air

2011-07-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Each summer, I LOVE taking pictures of the girls running through the sprinkler, playing on the slip 'n slide, and especially catching them mid-air while jumping. Call me crazy, but I LOVE seeing pictures of them mid-air. So I couldn't help myself from lying in the grass at the bottom of the slip 'n slide while taking dozens of pictures, trying to get that perfect picture of them in mid-air.

Katelyn mid-air

Lauren mid-air. Look at that height!! (love the angle since it looks bigger than it is)

Here she comes

Look at that splash!

wheee

whoah

aaaaaahhhhh

attempt at the mid-air shot

yet another take

Lauren's attempt at the mid-air shot (look at those long muscly legs!)

Katelyn trying to grab some leaves with her toes

Karaoke and the band

Fun art projects ,thanks to Grandma Merrell!!

my cuddly sleepers

Of course no summer would be complete without swinging, playing in the sandbox, having friends over, art projects, and sleepovers. It has been such a busy and fun summer. Thank goodness it's not over yet!!!

Happy Birthday James!!

2011-07-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

July 16th, James turned the big 3-0! I wanted to do something fun and memorable and surprising. However, his actual birthday was on a Saturday, which hopefully would mean that doing something on a Friday would be a little less obvious. So I talked with a few of his co-workers and arranged for a fun surprise at work on Friday. (No, James does not like surprises but I like to adopt the phrase "better to ask for forgiveness than to ask for permission" at a time like this)

So James' co-workers had arranged for a "company meeting" at 10 o'clock that morning to discuss something or other. However, that was when I was bringing the girls and the cake into the office so the entire company could be present and sing Happy Birthday to him.

After arriving at his work, the girls and I were hidden away in a side office where the girls were given coloring pages and crayons to color James a picture.

waiting to surprise James

When 10 o'clock came, the announcement was made for ALL employees to report to the meeting. A few minutes later when everyone was gathered, a co-worker stood up and announced that everyone was really there to celebrate James on his birthday. Then I walked in holding the cakes with Lauren and Katelyn behind. Seeing James' stunned expression was priceless!!! The entire company (about 82) sang Happy Birthday to James and then yelled "speech, speech, speech!" James got up and said a few words and then we took the cakes into the break room and invited everyone to come have some cake.

The cakes! Only chocolate will do for James

James' team offering Happy Birthday wishes as well as a nice card and gift certificate

After being wished a "Happy Birthday" and eating some cake we returned to James' office. I wanted to see first hand just how creatively they had decorated his office.

A view from the outside

His couch

I LOVED how they put James' picture on this guy

Katelyn and Lauren enjoying all the decorations (mostly the balloons)

It was SO fun to be there at James' work to surprise him and wish him a Happy Birthday. The next day for his actual birthday we took the girls to see Whinnie the Pooh and then went to lunch. It was a great day and we enjoyed being able to share it with him. Happy Birthday James!!!

3 weeks already?!?!

2011-07-24T13:49:00.000-07:00

The morning after coming home from Disneyland, Katelyn had her appointment to have her cast removed. I must admit, that never having broken a bone or seeing anyone else receive a cast, or have one removed for that matter, the whole cast process was very intriguing to me. Katelyn was such a brave strong girl through the whole thing. I am so proud of my big girl.

Having the cast "sawed" off. They say it only vibrates, but I know it still hurts

Prying it open

It's off, it's off!

A very happy cast-free Katelyn (who is in DESPERATE need of a hair cut)

Katelyn is back to all of her normal activities and you'd never know she ever had a cast. (even though she didn't let her cast slow her down.) However, loves to tell everyone, "I grew a new bone" I am so happy that her bone grew back and she is healing nicely!

Time once again to visit. . ..

2011-07-12T13:48:00.000-07:00

DISNEYLAND!!! You know we can't go more than 6 months without a visit to the happiest place on earth. Poor James was so tired and stressed that he came home from work on Thursday the 7th to announce that he just had to get away and since he didn't have anything pressing on Friday or Monday we were going to spend the weekend at Disneyland. We had already made plans and purchased tickets a few weeks ago for Hale Center Theaters' production of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels that night, or we would have left right then. However, not wanting to miss out on a night out with friends, we enjoyed our night out and left FIRST thing Friday morning.

At exactly 5:45 a.m. we carried Lauren and Katelyn out of their beds and into the car where they continued sleeping.

Enjoying some sleep

Hardly even knew they'd been moved

When they woke up a few hours later, it was time for some breakfast:

Granola bars and chocolate milk

yumm, breakfast of champions

Just before summer, we had anticipated taking a long car trip somewhere so we decided to purchase a cool entertainment center for the car. We got the two TV's that velcro onto the back of the driver's and passengers seats and have two headphones for quiet listening. It was heavenly!!! The kids didn't fight and bother each other and it was quiet enough that I could read (or talk) to James without frequent interruptions. The girls LOVED it as well. They enjoyed watching Finding Nemo and Alice in Wonderland.

By the way, I should probably mention that the kids have NO idea where we are going. They were just content being in the car and watching movies.

Lauren enjoying her soft taco lunch

Katelyn chows down on her lunch

By the time we were ready for lunch and into Las Vegas, Lauren recognized where we were and asked (or demanded rather) to know where we were going. When we told them Disneyland, they were excited.

We drove straight through (yes, all 10 hours) and arrived at Disneyland at 3:00 p.m. California time. We checked into our rooms and took the traditional "kissing the swan towel" pictures:

then changed into swimming suits and headed out to the pool to get out the wiggles and cool off. Then we showered, and changed and were ready and eager to go play at the Happiest Place on Earth for the next 3 days.

One of my favorite times is walking into the park, yet I've never taken pictures of it so I thought I'd try getting some pictures of that this time.

James and Katelyn walking towards the park

our shadow family

standing in line a the security check-point

waiting in line at the entrance

and we're in!!!

We had so much fun playing and being together. It was a fantastic get-a-way and a much needed vacation. Here are a few pictures of our fun times.

Katelyn on Mr. Toad's Wild Ride (she didn't even cover her eyes or ears this time!)

Posing with the statue of Pluto

James' S'more

Katelyn on the Davey Crockett Canoes

Lauren worried about paddling

James enjoying our "leaders" hilarious comments

Since Katelyn's birthday was just the week before, and James is a week after we got home, we decided to do something that we've never done and eat at the Blue Bayou. We were so excited to make those reservations!!! We've always told ourselves "someday" we'd do it, and here we were actually doing it!
(for those of you who haven't been to Disneyland, the Blue Bayou is a really cool restaurant inside the Pirates of the Caribbean Ride)

Had to take a picture of the menu, just to prove we were there :)

Katelyn in her pirates hat

Lauren's pirate hat (the kids menu folds into this cute hat)

Arrrrg, Matey

Of course, after finishing eating at the Blue Bayou, we had to immediately get into line to ride Pirates. Lauren had to wear her new pirates hat onto the ride!

Enjoying the jungle cruise and the skipper's corny jokes that NEVER change

Dad & Katelyn walking down Main Street U.S.A

Had to see Muppets in 3-D over at California Adventure

Does she look like the Unibomber or what?

Katelyn's favorite ride---The Ladybug Boogie

Toy Story is a MUST as well

Riding the King Arthur's Carousel

Mom and Lauren time

Finding Nemo Submarine ride

Inside the ride--also a MUST

Katelyn and Lauren inside the tree house on Tom Sawyers Island

Kissy Kissy (Katelyn did great taking this picture)

We're right here!

Queen of the treasure

this. is. so. stuck!

Lauren and Katelyn take their picture with the star

All too soon, our wonderful vacation has come to an end and it's time to go home. But to cope with the sadness of leaving, Dad stopped for lots of treats on the way home.

Lauren enjoying her "push pop"

Katelyn devours hers

But before long, they can't help themselves and are fast asleep

On the way back, we stopped in Las Vegas to visit James' sister Nicole and her cute family. It was SO great to see them and spend time with them. We even went swimming in their totally awesome pool. (Just wish I would have been smarter and applied sunscreen on my shoulders so I wouldn't have fried.) I also wish I would have taken my camera out of the car and taken some pictures. It was such a fun time and so good to be with family. Thanks for the fun times, Nicole!

It is always so good to get away and so nice to come home. What a fun, spontaneous trip!

4th of July Celebrations

2011-07-05T15:57:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful 4th of July holiday. It started off with our neighborhood bike parade. The kids put some red, white, and blue crepe paper on their bikes that morning (thanks to our wonderful neighbor Angelina) and rode around our block to the designated meeting spot. When everyone arrived and the drums began to beat the kids were off and down the street.

Lauren on her decorated bike

Katelyn and her decked out bike

The parade always ends at the park where the kids get their faces painted and a popsicle.

Lauren chose a flag for her cheek

Katelyn picked fireworks for hers

Then we went to the store for Katelyn's sheets and got her all set-up then started the prepwork and baking for the family BBQ we would be having later that night. I wish I would have gotten pictures of our fabulous spread, but of course, I didn't. We had brisket, baked beans, corn on the cob, watermelon, strawberry and spinach salad, garlic bread, lemonade, jell-o poke cake, and rootbeer ice-cream.

After dinner we headed out to the front lawn where we sat out blankets and chairs and gathered around for our annual family firework show.

Katelyn sits on Paige's lap

YAY! for fireworks.

Lauren, Jared, and Katelyn come inside to watch a movie. The fireworks were a little loud and scary

It was such a fun day and a great firework show but most of all, it was great to get together with family and visit.

Katelyn's birthday update

2011-07-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

As promised, on Monday morning we ran over to Target (since they had princess sheets on sale this week) and let Katelyn pick out her brand-new princess pillow. Grandpa & Tutu Gilbride were very generous so not only was Katelyn able to get a princess pillow, she was also able to get new sheets and a matching comforter as well. She was so excited and carried her bedding all through the store and on her lap the whole way home. As soon as we walked in the door, she carried it upstairs and started ripping it out of it's packaging to put on her bed. So we took off all her old sheets and put on her new princess ones.

Katelyn so excited for her new bed

All her matching princess bedding

Mom, it's so comfy!

So comfy I'll just take a nap

Getting new sheets was so exciting for Katelyn!! It is so fun seeing how excited kids get and what a difference new sheets can make. Katelyn was so excited for her sheets and even laid down and went right to sleep. Katelyn NEVER takes a nap and she NEVER just goes upstairs and puts herself to bed. I sure hope this lasts!!!

Thank you Grandpa & Tutu for making Katelyn's birthday so special, wonderful, and exciting!

Katelyn's 4th Birthday

2011-07-03T12:57:00.000-07:00

About a week ago, James asked Katelyn what she wanted for her birthday. She was very specific in her response. "I want a car racer, to go camping with the motorcycles, and a princess pillow." James was very pleased that she wanted to go camping so that's what we did. I think she had a really great day and enjoyed turning 4.

The morning started with opening presents with Grandma before she left for work.

Grandma holds up her vintage Cherry Coke t-shirt

Her My Little Pony

A dump truck for the sandbox!

Then we went to the splash park with the neighbors for some fun in the sun and water. Then we hurried home and threw everything in the camper and set-off for our camping adventure. The day was really warm and sunny but our canopy did a great job providing us with shade and there was a delightful breeze that made being outside very pleasant.

Our fun little set-up

We've LOVED this sun-canopy

After getting all set-up we sat down for lunch. Katelyn disappeared inside for a few minutes and reappeared in her jammies. She was so excited to sleep up on the bunk beds that she just couldn't wait any longer.

A cute little pose in her jammies (she said she was all set for a nap)

After lunch, we let Katelyn open up her presents. She was SO excited and eager to open them all up.

Wow, stick-on earrings!

The long anticipated "car racer"

A glow board-- now she has one like Lauren

Playing with the glow board

After opening presents, the girls headed back outside to play. (Just in case you were wondering about her 3rd wish, the princess pillowcase, that will be our fun on Tuesday. Thank you Grandpa & Tutu Gilbride for the birthday money!)

The neighbors came over to play and Lauren had fun riding her bike with her new "best friend"

Katelyn's friend gives her a manicure

After being out in the hot sun, it was fun to come inside and have popsicles

mmmm, red is my favorite because it's Daddy's favorite

Then it was time for dinner. Some yummy chili and then the long anticipated birthday cake.

Katelyn blows the candle out on her cake. All 4 in one breath!

After the cake it was time for a little more bike riding and playing outside. Then it was time to hit the showers, get in jammies, and climb up onto the bunk beds. We popped some popcorn, turned on a movie, and drew the curtains so the girls could enjoy their movie in the "movie theater" while James and I enjoyed a conversation of our own. Then we all curled up and went to sleep.

The next morning the first thing Katelyn asked me was if she was still 4. I told her yes. When she asked if it was still her birthday and I said no, she started crying. Deep wailing sobs. I hope that means that she really enjoyed her birthday. But she couldn't be sad for too long, we were having her favorite breakfast--sausage and eggs.

Yummy breakfast! Thanks Daddy!

While we were cleaning up, the girls darted back outside to enjoy the beautiful morning. Lauren has been doing such a great job riding her bike and can now be found constantly riding it. She did really great riding on the dirt. It was pretty bumpy and she took a few good falls, but she was always so good to get right back up and keep riding. (even though she scraped some skin off her leg)

More bike riding

A nice cold drink

Some cuddle time with Daddy

After lots of playing and bike riding, some cuddle time, and more popsicles, it was time to clean-up and go back home. It was such a fun time!

Katelyn, you are such a wonderful daughter. You add so much adventure and happiness to our lives. We love you so much and are so glad to have you in our family!!!

Summer So Far

2011-06-30T13:51:00.000-07:00

For the past 3 weeks, which have been summer vacation, we have been having fun playing in the sand and water. This past Saturday we even took our first family hike of the summer. It was so fun but a little different from what we were expecting. Here are our adventures in picture form:

Lauren building a sand castle, complete with a moat

Katelyn builds her sand fortress

Here she is going down the slide---because you can't keep a good Katelyn down

Katelyn goes swimming at the neighbors

Lauren & Katelyn in our pool

Thank goodness for a waterproof cast!

On our way up Big Cottonwood Canyon the water was flowing so fast. It was amazing! (this picture really doesn't do it justice)

Dad & Katelyn on the boardwalk

Lauren & Dad on the boardwalk

A gorgeous view of the lake

Dad helping Lauren over the snow

The family hikes down and out of the snow

Stopping to enjoy the view

What a pretty view

A fun view from behind the branches

A house near the lake

Lauren & Katelyn pause to check out their surroundings

Walking down the boardwalk by themselves

Just so amazing to have the weather so nice and warm, yet have so much snow around

Katelyn and Lauren all dressed for our summer hike, with a snowy mountain background

We have been having so much fun and are looking forward to all the many wonderful times that are still coming this summer!

Gourmet S'mores

2011-06-29T18:07:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to make home made marshmallows for a very long time. Every year, especially around Easter, I think I am finally going to do it, but I haven't. Now that it is summer I figured making marshmallows would make for extra special s'mores. . . so I did it. I have now made home made marshmallows and I have to say they weren't as hard as I thought they'd be and they were more delicious than I expected. I'd definitely make them again!!!

Lauren and Katelyn LOVE to help me cook/bake and I love spending that time with them. So they helped measure, pour, and mix everything together. When it was all finished they were able to enjoy licking the bowls and whisk.

Lauren stretches her marshmallow mixture

Katelyn trying to lick the bowl

Lauren takes a gigantic lick

Katelyn "biting" the marshmallow off the scraper

After we "poured" our marshmallow mixture into the pan we had to let it sit for 3 hours until they would be firm enough to cut and eat.

Finished product. . .square marshmallow?

I cut the marshmallows into squares, then sandwiched it between graham crackers. (I used a little bit of water on top and bottom of the marshmallow to make it stick to the cracker for this next part.)

Then I dipped the entire thing into chocolate until covered. They went into the fridge to harden for a few minutes

And the gourmet s'more is born

and then we devoured them. So yummy and really not too bad for a few hour's work.

ahhh, so yummy!! Must make again!!! (maybe this time double dipped in chocolate) :)

A Saturday Tradition

2011-06-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

Ever since Lauren was tiny, James and Lauren have LOVED watching cooking shows together every Saturday morning. Most Saturdays they find a recipe they like (usually pasta) and then make it together. It is a great tradition that we really enjoy. This particular Saturday was a pasta dish. So they made the home made dough together, then put it through the pasta maker, and made a delicious sauce. What a fun time!

James and Katelyn making the noodles

Katelyn turns the crank while Dad inserts the dough

Lauren making sausage meatballs

The finished product! Yummy!

Lauren stretches her noodle to see how long it is

Katelyn LOVES slurping the noodles

I don't know of anything that beats a Saturday afternoon spent talking, laughing, and eating good food.

Katelyn Breaks her arm

2011-06-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, June 15, we were all outside riding bikes on the front sidewalk. Katelyn was in front of one of our neighbor's houses when she spied their cat. She got off her bike and went over and pet the cat. So I walked over and watched her and after awhile the neighbor came outside and the cat walked away. So we started back towards our house. Katelyn decided to run back home and I watched as she tripped and her arm went underneath her body as her knees, then hands and chin hit the sidewalk and skidded until she stopped there sobbing on the ground. I ran to her and scooped her up in my arms. My eyes raced over her body checking out the extent of her injuries. I carried her sweet little body inside the house and laid her down on the couch as I talked with her about where she was hurt. Her knees were skinned up, but thankfully not too bad. She wanted them to get band-aids so I got out our trusty 1st aid kit and starting applying band-aids. Her hands her sore from hitting the cement, and her chin was a little cut up. After taking care of everything that needed a band-aid she said that her arm hurt. I hoped it wasn't broken and I felt her arm and she didn't complain. I figured it would be best to wait the 2 hours until James would be home to have him check her over since he has broken both arms a few times and would know better than me just how badly her arm was hurt. She laid there on the couch and watched an entire movie. Then she got up and resumed playing. However, she kept her right arm close to her body and wouldn't use it. I started to worry it was really hurt. Katelyn didn't complain or act like she was in any pain, she just didn't use her arm.

When James came home he went right to Katelyn and felt her arm and had her bend and flex and do all the things the doctors had done to him and she did everything without complaining. We figured her arm was just sore and just continued to watch her. The next morning she was still not using her arm. I looked it over and noticed that her wrist was swollen. I touch her fingers and forearm and she didn't wince, but then I felt her wrist and she winced and pulled away. I figured I better take her to the doctor. So we got in the car and ran over to the Insta-Care where they had her move and bend her arms. The doctor said she had a great range of motion and she didn't act like she was in any pain, but would do an x-ray to make sure. Katelyn was fantastic in getting her x-rays and the technician complimented her many times on how well she was doing and what a good girl she was.

After the first picture was taken, the technician could tell it was fractured. Back to the doctor we went where he explained that she would be getting a soft cast and would need to wear it for an entire week before we could take her into her pediatrician for a hard cast as well as talk about whether she would need to see an orthopedic surgeon. Katelyn was very still and was an excellent patient while receiving her soft cast. Upon arriving home, I called her pediatrician to set up an appointment to get on the hard cast. So I asked them whether Katelyn would need to see an orthopedic surgeon. They said they would read her x-rays then call me back letting me know where I should make my appointment, with them or the orthopedic surgeon. When the call came back we were referred to Primary Children's for the hard cast. When I called James to let him know she would need to take her into Primary's for the hard cast he felt terrible he didn't think her arm was broken right away. Katelyn is one tough girl!

All wrapped up so we could go to the Splash Park for our neighborhood park day

The cast all wrapped up so Katelyn could take a bath

Katelyn sleeping so peacefully. She did so great with her soft cast.

At Primary's waving goodbye to her stinky old cast

Having her cast "squeezed" to make it hard.

The moment we'd been waiting for--the hard cast. The first thing Katelyn said to me was "Mom, knock on it! It's hard!!!"

Phew, we're all done. She slept the whole way home.

Katelyn has been the bravest and best patient this whole time. She hasn't ever complained about her cast and she has been excellent about following doctors orders not to mess with her soft cast and in avoiding her most favorite activity--jumping on the trampoline. Katelyn, you are the best, we love you!!

In James' Words

2011-06-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

So James decided to blog about our trip as well. He thought it would be fun to make a new blog where we can keep all of our adventures together. He is a great story teller and was willing to spend the many hours required to tell a "proper" telling and showing off of our trip. So please read! Just go to the website http://gilbridetravels.blogspot.com/ or click HERE ENJOY!

Europe Trip 2011

2011-06-15T06:52:00.000-07:00

Wow, where do I even start on telling some of the adventures we had on our 12-day vacation through Europe? I guess I'll start at the beginning and give you the highlights of each day. (All stories are my perspective only, you can read James' perspective here)
This was my first cruise (James's too!) and I enjoyed it. However, I think that not all cruises are created equal. I think each ship and destination will make your experience completely different. If you want to completely relax and sit in your room reading a book, or out at the pool sunbathing, or taking dance or fitness classes then cruising is probably right up your alley. I have to admit that I found myself looking for things to do to occupy my time and keep me entertained as working out, sunbathing, and reading weren't at the top of my list. Having 4 free restaurants to choose from was pretty cool (the first 2 days). However having an ice-cream machine available almost 24/7 was for sure the highlight! James and I found ourselves constantly going up to the 12th deck to grab an ice-cream cone. The theater was a fun place to spend the evenings, the performances were pretty good. My favorite was a man who was able to climb a single ladder all by himself, he did it blindfolded too. Then he stood at the top and juggled then wrapped himself in hula-hoops. It was really amazing! Otherwise, the 2 days that we were out at sea the entire day, I must admit, were pretty boring. Thank goodness 4 days we had off-shore excursions. Here they are in order:

Corfu, Greece (Monday, May 30th)
Corfu was my favorite day over all. I still hadn't quite adjusted to the 8 hour time difference and was wide awake at 4 a.m. after lying there for an hour, James woke up and we turned on an episode of Golden Girls. Then we got up and dressed and James went for breakfast while I jogged the jogging track. It was such a beautiful day! It was a really fun feeling jogging around the track on a huge cruise ship sailing through the water with the sea breeze blowing through my hair. The sun was just rising up over the ocean and the land was just coming into site. James and I spent at least an hour watching the boat come into port and seeing the sunrise. It was a fantastic way to start the day.

Corfu was a regular Greek city full of life and history. The smell of spices and cigarettes was strong in the air and souvenir shops and bakeries lined the narrow city streets. After walking for hours, James and I stopped at a little street cafe for lunch. We HAD to have a Gyro as our first meal. It was delicious and the staff was very friendly. I loved watching the 2 gentlemen at the table across from us who enjoyed watching and talking about us, as much as we enjoyed our meal. For me, the highlight of the day was probably touring the New Fort which looked really old to us. Everything there was so old and so intriguing, just a fun place to explore and experience.

Santorini, Greece (Tuesday, May 31st)

Santorini was the prettiest of the islands to me. Half the fun was just getting to the city itself. The cruise ship couldn't get very close to the shore so it "docked" further away and we boarded a smaller boat and were "tendered" to the shore. We could either choose to take the cable car up the cliff, ride a mule, or walk the 850 steps up. James and I chose to take the cable car up. For someone who is a little afraid of heights, (me) it was very fun and the view was amazing. All the buildings were were so pretty and most were newly whitewashed. We spent most of our day shopping in all the quaint little shops. (I purchased a really pretty pink embroidered and beaded scarf.) That evening we ate dinner at a gorgeous restaurant with a spectacular view and the food was really yummy. I just loved how pretty and different this city was. Such an amazing and gorgeous place. (We ended up opting to walk down all 850 stairs with the mules. James was pretty scared of the mules and I think would not do it again. I would opt for shoes other than flip-flops which were pretty slippery against the worn stones.)

Mykonos, Greece (Wednesday, June 1st)

Mykonos was our next stop and the city we had picked for our guided tour. We enjoyed our bus tour all over the island and our guided tour through a beautiful Greek Orthodox church, a bakery, and then the narrow winding city streets. The city is known for it's 5 historical windmills, narrow winding streets (to confuse the pirates) and it's "little Venice" The city was really beautiful and nearly all the building were newly whitewashed as well. The churches can either be painted white with red or blue tops. And all the buildings are required to be painted white at least every couple of years and you can choose the color of the windows. I must admit to liking these rules, it makes for a very pretty town. The waters near the city were SO blue and yet so clear. I think it had the prettiest water and was the only town where I got into the water. It made me wish I was wearing my swimming suit and could have gone for a swim.

Katakolon, Greece (Thursday, June 2nd)
Katakolon was our last city and unfortunately James got really sick that day. He thinks he got sick from eating a raw muscle from the buffet on the ship. We only spent about 2 hours walking through the city. We saw the beach, the cemetery, and some pretty houses but that was really about it. In order to get to the "real" place you wanted to go. . .Olympia (the city of the first Olympics) you would have to take the train, a bus, or get a taxi to go the 30 miles to get there. Since James was so sick we decided to cut our losses and go back to the ship so we could rest. Thankfully he was only sick for about 24 hours and the next day we were out at sea so it was nice he could rest up so he could be back to normal for the rest of our trip.

Milan, Italy (Saturday, June 4)

After our cruise, we rented a car and drove from Venice to Milan where we stopped for lunch. The food there was really yummy. In fact, our friend Tom ordered chicken with potato chips. The chips were home-made and the most delicious I've ever had. The drive was really really gorgeous and each view a postcard. The roads were really good and we ended up taking 2 toll roads. Thankfully we didn't need to read or speak Italian or French to use them. We could understand credit card and were able to use it no problem. I can understand why as we drove through about 60 tunnels and over a couple large expansion bridges. Again, the views were just so amazing and breathtaking! Then we drove through Monaco and Beaumont Sur-Mer. (If any of you have watched Dirty Rotten Scoundrels , a lot of this movie was filmed in this area. Since James absolutely LOVES this movie we had to drive all through this area and made sure to stop at The Grand Hotel. James was in heaven!!! This was such a beautiful place and we saw 3 different Ferrari's driving ahead of us.) Then we drove into Nice where we stayed for 2 days.

Nice, France (Sunday and Monday June 5th & 6th)Nice was nice. haa haa haa I don't think I'll tire of saying that. In all seriousness, it really was a great place. The town had a lot of beautiful buildings, some fun history, and the ocean. James was a little disappointed at what seemed to him, a lack of true French food. There were still so many pizza and pasta places. So the first night we were there in Nice, James asked w our waiter what he thought was the best "French" food they offered. James took the recommended suggestion and was sadly disappointed. (The rest of us who stuck with the pizza were very happy with our meals) It rained during dinner and thankfully we were covered and it really only lasted through our meal. The rain left the city fresh and sparkling and I loved how it looked in our night pictures.

My favorite story also took place here. The day we arrived in Nice, we found our hotel and parked on the curb (since there was no parking anywhere close by, and hey everybody else did it) then went and checked-in. We asked about the parking garage and they said the doors to the right of the hotel were to the parking garage and the receptionist would push a button to have them open when we were ready. We got back into the car and James announced we were ready. The doors slowly opened revealing the tiniest entrance and parking garage I have ever seen. There was literally only an inch and a half on each side between the car and the cement walls. James took a deep breath and a large gulp and drove our stick-shift small car down a 20% grade hill (or something like that) into the small cramped lot. He did a 25 point turn around to back the car into it's small spot. Phew! He then exclaimed that he really didn't look forward to getting it out. We did however 2 days later. James slowly eased up the steep hill until the sensors were triggered and the door began it's s-l-o-w process of opening, by that time we'd lost momentum and after not driving a stick-shift in 15 years, James gunned the engine, the tires spun and we started slipping down the hill. James slowly reversed to the bottom of the hill and very steadily climbed up and out into the glorious bright city street, where we again parked on the curb and then piled in the suitcases.

Cannes, France (Monday, June 6th)
We took a little road trip into Cannes and I must admit that after being in Monaco and Nice, it wasn't as glamorous as I thought it would. (Woah, I think I might just be a little dis-sensitized after being to so many amazingly beautiful places. If I were to have flown into the city, I think I would have been more impressed with how beautiful it was) The city was really pretty and we enjoyed being there (and being able to say that we'd been there!) While we were there, I was so excited to find a $2 Euro store (like a Dollar store here) and to find that they sold talking phones. I had purchased a talking phone for Lauren last time I was in Italy and it was so cute listening to hear repeating the Italian phrases. (Which I had purchased at a 1 Euro store) I was really hoping that I could do the same only this time, in French. I purchased 2 phones (one for Lauren and one for Katelyn of course) and was thrilled to have them. However, upon returning home and giving the girls the phones one was very hard to hear and only made ringing tones instead of speaking and the other phone didn't work at all! I was completely disappointed. (even more than the girls) sigh! C'est la vie

Paris, France (Tuesday, June 7th)

Paris was our final destination in this amazing vacation. Thank goodness we had saved the best for last. We were hoping to have been able to have spent more than just one day there, however, we weren't able to get train tickets any earlier. It worked out pretty nicely though as we arrived in Paris at 10:15 p.m. which meant it was dark and the Eiffel Tower was aglow. It was so exciting to see it all lit up my first time. We had a quick glimpse from the taxi to our hotel so after settling into our room. James and I ventured back out to go visit up close and personal. (On a funny sidenote, our friends and other couple we were traveling with had decided to get some dinner and we all met up in the lobby so we headed out together) It was AMAZING being able to see the Eiffel Tower in person. I couldn't get enough. We happened to still be there at midnight when the tower twinkled. I think it's one of the grandest sights I've ever seen! I would have been happy with Paris with just that. Although, lucky for me we still had an entire day left to explore in broad day light.

The next morning, we headed back to the Eiffel Tower to catch an open air hop-on/hop-off tour bus. It was the best thing we could have done. It was so fun sitting on the top of this double decker bus snapping pictures of this beautiful city. Within minutes I could completely understand why everyone LOVES Paris, why everyone goes there, and why so many movies take place there. It is everything wonderful everyone says it is!! James and I plugged in our cute lime green headsets and enjoyed the history being narrated to us as we rode along in our bus. The bus stopped at about 20 stops, but you could also transfer to another line to stop at 20 more stops. The one disappointment was that after James was so excited to see the Mona Lisa and being so close, was stopped short as the Luvre is closed every Tuesday, and the one and only day we had in Paris, just so happened to be on Tuesday. James says it's just a sign that we have to go back. We jumped off at most of major stops to take pictures but didn't actually go inside (another reason to go back.) I loved hearing the bells at Notre Dame, how exquisite the building was, I enjoyed taking pictures for other tourists and watching traffic navigate the traffic circle at Arc De Triomphe, and I loved seeing the beautiful tree lined streets and the beautiful white Parisian buildings. It was a magical day. If only it wouldn't have rained, I think it would have been just a tad more enjoyable. Sitting on the top of that double decker bus in the rain and wind made it a little harder to take pictures and not want to hop inside the nearest restaurant and eat all day. What a magical city! I can't wait until I can go back. Seeing those places from the outside, only makes me want to return to go inside all those wonderful places we weren't able to see this visit.

Home: Wednesday, June 8th

After being away from home and my 2 precious daughters, home with my girls was the best place to be! (Especially after an entire day of travelling--even though we took the really cool non-stop flight from Paris to Salt Lake) After seeing some of the most spectacular places and sights, eating the most amazing foods, and having such incredible experiences, my favorite experience of all was walking into my own home and smothering my girls with hugs and kisses!

**Cute story: A few days later, I had to go shopping and Katelyn wanted me to carry her everywhere. I just couldn't stop kissing her and then I hugged her tight and kissed her all over her face and asked her, have I caught up on all the kisses I missed while I was gone? she quickly replied "no, I need lots more"

Lauren's 50's Performance

2011-06-09T06:57:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know I have already done a post where I had pictures of Lauren in her adorable '50's outfit for her singing performance, but she had 4 and I just can't helping adding a few more pictures. I am really hoping to get my videos to load. I really tried last time, but didn't have any success. I am crossing my fingers, I can get video on here.

I LOVE watching Lauren perform. I think she has a love for performing on stage. She seems to be so comfortable on stage and singing and dancing. She loves keeping her songs and dances a secret so that we can be surprised when we come to her first performance.
She seems so alive when she is singing and dancing. I am so grateful for this little group, Mini Melody and for all the fun Lauren has had this past year. Lauren, we are so proud of you!!

Mini Melody 2010-2011

Katelyn's Field trip &Preschool Graduation

2011-05-25T12:04:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that Katelyn has already finished her first year of preschool. She has had such a wonderful year and has really learned a lot. We are so proud of her and her accomplishments.

Preschool FieldtripKatelyn's last preschool field trip was at the Bluffdale Fire Department. Here she is posing in front of the building.
One of the firemen got into his gear and they talked about fire safety.

Then they went into the garage and looked over the fire engine
Here Katelyn gets to sit in the drivers seat and pretends to drive
Katelyn's class sitting on the front of the fire engine

Katelyn's last day of Preschool

My favorite part about having Katelyn in preschool was watching her run to me every time I picked her up from school!
And here is a close-up as she is ready to throw those sweet arms around me

Preschool Graduation
Katelyn sitting with all the other preschool classes during her Graduation Ceremony. They performed a few of the poems, songs, and counting they had learned during the year. It was really cute and they all did a great job.
Katelyn waiting to receive her diploma
Teacher Heather hands Katelyn her diploma, a book, and a bag of goodies
The graduate with Dad
and with Mom
Katelyn is a Rising Star! I feel the same way about Katelyn graduating from preschool as I did about Lauren---thank goodness she still has one year of preschool left :)

Camping and the Zoo

2011-05-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was really fun. Since it was actually sunny and warm and we decided to make the most of it and go camping. We got the camper all ready and drove out past Cedar Fort to the "West Desert" where James loved to ride and race his motorcycles when he was a teenager. It was fun for him to be back and watch all the motorcyclist, I think the girls enjoyed watching them too. Here are a few of the things we enjoyed (in picture form, of course):

Katelyn all snuggled up in her sleeping bag on the bunk bed (her favorite spot!)
Lauren making a pet and showing off her bracelet "Fuzzoodle"
Katelyn playing peek-a-boo through the screen door
Lauren running back to the camper to come get Katelyn to look at something
Lauren blowing bubbles
Katelyn blowing bubbles (do you like how she's wearing her swimming suit? Even though we told her there wouldn't be any water, she insisted she had to wear it under her clothes)
A wonderful breakfast (made by James) of bacon and scrambled eggs with orange juice

It was a fun trip and we are so excited for our next outing. (Especially since after this trip we know to watch for vapor lock and how to fix it so we won't have to stall at an intersection and be towed to an empty parking lot like this last time!)

After we arrived home we cleaned up and got ready for our trip to the zoo. James had VIP tickets that included free admission and lunch from his work. Of course, there had to be a storm moving in but we hoped the storm would stay away until we got home, but we weren't so lucky. We had a fun time and enjoyed seeing Grandma Glauser enjoy her first trip to Hogle Zoo anyways.
Katelyn excited to see the elephants

An elephant eating a watermelon (very fun to see)

Lauren watching the dinosaurs (we even got sprayed by one)

Grandma and Katelyn watching the dinosaurs

stopping for a drink out of the lion water fountain---a must for each visit.
Katelyn measuring herself against the juvenile ape (I think it's a match)
and watching the bird show and getting rained out after this first bird came on stage. So back home to curl up and watch a movie and enjoy the rest of the night! What a fun time!

Lauren's Spring Singing Recital

2011-05-15T15:23:00.001-07:00

Last Friday, Lauren had her first spring singing recital. The theme was '50's and it was SO cute! I thought Lauren looked so cute in her little outfit! She did a great job performing as well! This recital was a little last-minute and the group hadn't planned to have a performance for another month, but I thought they did really well. I can't wait for the next performance.Lauren with her friends
Holding her Teddy Bear to be used in a song later
Lauren visiting before the performance began

Okay, I have really tried to get at least one video to upload but haven't been successful yet. Sorry for just the pictures but I thought Lauren looked too cute not to share. :)

Easter Celebration

2011-04-23T14:07:00.001-07:00

Last weekend I was able to celebrate Easter with my family out in Roosevelt. It was really great that all of the siblings and spouses were there (except for mine). It was so fun to visit, color Easter eggs, have an Easter Egg Hunt, visit, eat lunch, visit, celebrate my niece Mercedes 5th Birthday, and visit.

Then Sunday I was able to take my kids to the ward I attended all my life and it was so fun seeing so many friends! Then we had a wonderful Sunday dinner and visited. Then everyone went home and we got to spend the night at my Mom and Dads.

Monday we visited my Mom's work, drove around town seeing all the new sights and visited my sisters Renae and Debby at their homes. It was so great getting to see and visit everyone. What a wonderful weekend. Tuesday morning came so quickly and it was back home all refreshed and relaxed for the rest of the week of Spring Break. Now here comes the pictures you've all been waiting for:

Lauren coloring her egg
Kaloni, Tyler, and Katelyn color their eggsThe kids and parents on hunting eggs. Here is Katelyn and her basketfull
All of my parents grandchildren (and a couple parents)
Mercedes opening her presents
And here are my Dad and Mom (with Lauren on her lap) while we were visiting.

Here are some current pictures of my family. (I am a little sad that we weren't able to get a picture of all of us together so these individual ones will have to do)

My Dad (and Katelyn)
Me and My Mom
My oldest sister Leisa and me
My older brother Scott and his family (next in age is me)
Me and my little sister Julie
My and my little sister Debby
me and my youngest sister Renae. It was so fun getting to see everyone and visit. Next time, we'll have to do better about getting family and group pictures!

Megan and Lauren. This was at my sister Debby's new house in Vernal. Megan and Lauren are just 2 months apart with Megan being the eldest. These two were really fun to watch playing together.
Back at my parents Lauren and Katelyn play with the Lincoln logs and Lauren builds a house
and my girls favorite part of the whole weekend: Playing cards with Grandma. I think Lauren would have been in heaven if all we did was just play cards.

It was such a great visit and a wonderful 3 days! Thanks to my wonderful family for a spectacular time. I can't wait until we're together again.

This and That

2011-04-13T15:19:00.001-07:00

The past few weeks have been really fun. We have days where it is not so cold and the sun is almost out, so we head to the park for a few minutes, or roller skate or walk around the neighborhood before school. We LOVE those days! However, a lot of the days it is still cold and grey outside and we find lots of fun things to do indoors. It makes for hodgepodge pictures :) Here's what we've been up to:

Since Katelyn's birthday is in the summer (July 1st) she wouldn't have a chance to celebrate at preschool, so the teachers try and give them a day to celebrate. Last Tuesday was Katelyn's un-birthday at preschool. We made a fun little poster filled with pictures of the things she loves to do.
Here she is in her preschool room with her friends
and you can't see this picture very well but, Katelyn received her birthday present and was so excited to put it in her backpack. She just has a tiny backpack and her teacher asked if she thought it would fit and Katelyn quickly said "oh yeah, it will fit" and ran back and shoved it in. She turned too quickly before I could get a good picture of the present being shoved into her backpack. :)
We've also been doing some artwork and paintings. This is Lauren's painting of a palm tree in the bright sunny weather! (Can you guess what she's dreaming about?)

And here is Lauren's painting of a volcano. I'm biased, but I think she's a pretty good little artist!

I made home made donuts for the very first time! It was pretty fun and I think they turned out pretty decent. Here are my donut holes, lemon filled donuts, and chocolate frosted donuts. YUM! (thanks for the recipe, Julie!)

In good news, the sun came out today and it was GORGEOUS. Days like today have really helped my rhubarb plant grow! YAY!!!

And since it was so gorgeous outside, I decided to mow the lawn, the first of the season! Katelyn couldn't help jumping into all the clippings. (I know, still in her jammies. It was a very lazy enjoyable day)

And here is the front of the house all nicely mowed with only the tree stump to show I am missing a beautiful tree. (Wish I would have taken pictures of the house WITH the tree)

and here is the backyard with the beautiful stripes from mowing! SO glad for our tree here in the backyard so that when summer FINALLY rolls around, we will have a nice shady place to play.

Destruction from last nights storm

2011-04-03T16:47:00.001-07:00

My beautiful globe willow was split in half due to the rain and snow that froze on it's budding branches. It was devastating to look out the front window this morning to see this.

The root was pulled up out of the ground even!

My beautiful tree lying here on my front lawn

all my wonderful and amazing neighbors who just showed up at my door to clean up my destroyed tree! Thank you, thank you, thank you!! It's so nice to know that even when James is gone, I always have help!

Katelyn is fascinated by the whole thing

The aftermath. The tree is all chopped up and ready to be hauled away.

Just to review:
My tree all covered in snow lying across the front lawn

and the tree all chopped up after the snow had melted

I just cannot express my gratitude enough to all the men who helped clean up this tree. It's always hard having something this big happen when James isn't home but it's so wonderful having such amazing neighbors who always come to my rescue!!!

Katelyn's Library Fieldtrip

2011-03-30T18:36:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday Katelyn had a preschool field trip to the new Herriman Library. She was really excited to go and it was a fun time.

We got there a little early so Katelyn started to write me a note while we waited. If you click on the picture I think you can read "mom" on her paper. :)

We started out with some library rules and a story.
Then they got a tour and were mesmerized by the giant letters in the "KIDS" area
So mesmerized that Katelyn had to ask a question. (wish I could remember what it was)

Then they were able to make a bookmark with really cool stickers. They were told they could each have 10 and they did a great job counting out their stickers and placing them onto the bookmark.
Here's Katelyn's finished bookmark

She gets into an "s" shape inside her block letter "S"

Afterwards we stopped at McDonalds for an ice-cream and some fun time playing at the playland.

It was a really fun field trip and I enjoyed my special time with Katelyn!

Bowling for Lauren

2011-03-25T13:34:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, we took the girls bowling for the first time. They LOVED it! They were both really good and had a lot of fun. We played two games and Lauren and Katelyn scored higher than me on both games. Wish I could have used those bumpers too! Lauren loved it so much, that she has been BEGGING us to take her back.

She has been doing really great in school and her 3rd term report card showed all A+'s except one for citizenship which was a B. She had been sitting in the back of the classroom with some talkative boys and had been talking during class. However, she has now been moved up front and is doing really great. So to celebrate, we took Lauren bowling last week.

Here Lauren hefts her ball and gets ready to roll

and here it goes
She grabs the ball again

and throws it down the lane

Katelyn tried out a few different ways. Here is her Granny roll

Here she gets her ball and gets ready to bowl again

this time she tries the kid stand and throws it off. Look at all the air that ball caught. Unfortunately we were a little noisy with balls crashing onto the lane.

It was really fun. I have to admit it was definitely more fun for me this time around as I found the right weighted ball for myself and won the game! (especially after coming in dead last for the two previous games!)

Way to go Lauren. We are so proud of you and all your great hard work in school!! Keep it up!

Mini Vacation

2011-03-15T12:52:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we headed down to St.George to attend the wedding reception of a good friend. We decided to make a mini-vacation out of it and had a blast. It was the perfect weather and a perfect weekend.

Lauren and Katelyn climbing some rocks up at Red Cliffs

Katelyn playing in the red sand

Katelyn and Lauren playing in the dirt

Katelyn crawling under a big rock

James and Lauren looking at The Narrows. He used to climb through when he was a teenager. Lauren was petrified and wouldn't let James get any closer.
Katelyn and Lauren at the arch. (I'm glad that I caught this picture of Katelyn playing with her belly-button --it is her nervous tick)

Katelyn poses with the cactus

Lauren and Katelyn sitting on the "truck bench" at Troy's BBQ. We LOVE it!

Unfortunately, I forgot my camera in the car when we got to the reception (since I was getting a sleeping Katelyn out of the car) It was so good to see everyone and visit. It was a fun time!

Back at home the girls make sleeping bags out of the chair covers.

On Monday my sister Renae and her family came for a visit. It was so fun to visit and catch up.

Brianna "smiles" for the camera

On Tuesday morning the girls skate around the block before school

What a fun weekend! I am LOVING this warmer weather and being able to go outside and play!

Roller-blader-In-Training

2011-03-09T07:49:00.001-08:00

Back when James and I lived downtown and before we had our two beautiful daughters, we each purchased a pair of roller blades and would skate around Liberty Park. It was a great form of exercise and we enjoyed our summer evenings out at the park together.

However, since moving to Riverton we haven't actually used them very much. Right after purchasing a double jogging stroller 2 summers ago, I realized that I could roller blade while pushing the stroller. This was actually great because I had something to hold onto, and pushing the stroller worked my legs even more.

During the winter however, these poor roller blades sit unused. That is until Lauren found them. She loves to put on just one skate and push with her other foot. She has LOVED using them. For her birthday her Grandpa Gilbride (who lives in Hawaii and is always so generous) sent her some birthday money. When Lauren was asked what she wanted to get with the money she had a few things in mind and finally decided on roller blades. She wanted some just like Mom and Dad.

So we looked online and found a really great set. They are adjustable training roller blades. They can adjust to fit 4 different size feet and they start out with the one front wheel and two in the back, then later when she is roller skating like a pro, we can move the wheels in-line and she can have roller blades. The skates come in a clear plastic backpack with helmet, wrist guards, and knee pads.
Here is Lauren all ready to hit the pavement

and here she is rolling up the driveway and into the garage! Whew what a good workout!! She had to take a couple breathers as we went around the block but she did a really great job!

Katelyn of course didn't want to be left out so we purchased her a little set of adjustable roller skates that fit right over your shoes. I figure this way, until it warms up we can go to Classic Skating and all skate together and then this summer we can be out and around the neighborhood skating. I am really excited for another fun activity we can do as a family!!! (not to mention one that is so healthy!)

Cabin Fever

2011-03-02T14:45:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was a BEAUTIFUL day. It was sunny and warmer with not much wind, so we dashed off to the park before Lauren's afternoon kindergarten to have a little fun and get out some wiggles. It was so fun that the girls begged to go tomorrow.

Well today didn't turn out to be as bright or sunny but we decided we weren't going to let that stop us. So we packed up a picnic lunch, all our winter gear and headed off to the neighboring park. (This park has those little rubber tire pieces and there isn't any mud to battle, so it's the perfect park!)

We decided it was a little too cold to eat out in the weather, so we had our little picnic in the back of my car. It being a station wagon has a nice large flat trunk and was absolutely perfect for our little picnic. Here's our story in pictures:

Her sneaking a LARGE handful of Pringles

oops, you caught me
mmmm
I'm in HEAVEN!!!

cheese, see my food!
wwwwhhheeeee
How do I get off this thing
Whoa, what a rush!
sssslllluuurrrppp
Hey Mom, look at my hair!
hmmm, can I reach?
Let's make a bigger pile
haa haa haa
Yes!

What a fun little outing. It was exactly what the doctored ordered for our cabin fever. A nice day out swinging, sliding, and running around outside. We CAN'T WAIT for warmer weather. (really, we can't. So until it warms up, we're just going to keep bundling up and heading outside!)

Just in case you were wondering. . .

2011-03-01T13:43:00.000-08:00

where the post about Katelyn was. . . here it is.

Katelyn just started a little tumbling class through the community called Tiny Tumblers. She LOVES it! She is not afraid to try anything and gives 100% at everything!

Here Katelyn does her "arches" She thinks her head is supposed to be on the ground-- we'll have to work on that at home. :)

Here she does "forward rolls" (she LOVES these)

Here she practices her handstands against the wall. She was really great at these and could stand there for a long time.

Katelyn gets so excited to go to class each weeks and LOVES wearing her "gymnastic suit"

P.S. There are 2 little boys in the class. Katelyn quickly made friends with one who follows her around everywhere and does everything she does. Guess I thought having her in gymnastics would help her find girlfriends. She has proven me wrong once again. . . guy best-friends in preschool, church, and now gymnastics!

Lauren's new smile

2011-02-22T20:13:00.001-08:00

So for the past month, Lauren's gums above her two front teeth have been swollen and you could actually see where her adult teeth were. About a week ago, one of the adult teeth broke through and started growing down over her baby tooth. This baby tooth was very loose but for some reason, Lauren was TERRIFIED of pulling out her tooth. We asked, begged, and pleaded without success. So I gave her an ultimatum; either she could pull it, have Mom or Dad pull it, or the Dentist would pull it. She chose the dentist.

Here she is right before leaving to visit the dentist. It's kind of difficult to see, but there is half of her adult tooth in front of the baby one

And here she is as soon as she got home. She chose Dad to accompany her to the dentist. (Which was nice that he had President's day off so he could) James said that the laughing gas made her really loopy and he had a lot of fun watching and talking to her while under the gas. He even recorded a little video of her on his iphone.

Thankfully, she was very brave and said it wasn't scary and didn't hurt. (Have I mentioned that we absolutely LOVE our dentist?!?!) She was actually very happy about her new smile and couldn't wait to show her teachers and friends at school the next day. In fact, on Friday Lauren received a candy gram from a boy in her class and all yesterday all she could say was that she couldn't wait for this boy to see her new smile. As promised, once we drove up to school today, he was standing at the front of the line and she literally jumped out of the car and straight to him and was just inches from his face showing him her missing teeth. :)