Sunday, May 30, 2010

Aunt Lynda

We have a favorite 70 year old at this moment: My Aunt Lynda. Happy Birthday to one of the sweetest ladies I know. Lynda is always loving and serving others. Ever since I was a young girl, I have always been truely spoiled by her goodness. We're glad it's her special day so we can actually do something nice just for her! Enjoy!!

Thursday, May 27, 2010

School Wide Dance Festival

It's an exciting day when it's the Dance Festival. School is almost out and it's time to celebrate.
All the fourth grade classes tie dyed these shirts last week. They danced to "The Eye of the Tiger". This song takes me back to high school as it was our theme song.
Waiting for their turn to run forward down the field. AWESOME! Can you see Madi on the front row with her fists ready to go?Sara with her friend Jensen and their teacher Mrs. Bezzant.
Sara danced to Disney Mania's version of Zip-a-dee-doo-dah! She had the motions down perfect and she just couldn't stop smiling. Such a FUN Day!
Grandma Judith had a very busy day but, was kind enough to squeeze in seeing the girls. Christina, Sue and Sandy are visiting her from Taiwan. Thanks for coming!

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Sweet Pony


You can't see the expression on Sara's face. But, I know she is beaming from ear to ear and she has thanked me at least 10 times. It was not our original intention to visit this pony. But, as we were driving by...Sara wanted to stop. I figured there are not many times when we don't have other particular places to be and...the sun was shining. This picture is with my phone...not the best quality...but, it shows a moment in time that will too soon not be asked for. Sara, thanks for asking, you made my day!!

End of the Year Concerts/Programs

Jake was given a certificate for 3 years of honor roll. Congrats!
Timberline's Night of Excellence

Spring Choir Concert. They sounded awesome! I know Alli will really miss Jake not being in the same school as her next year.
Alli's School Dance concert.

Alpine Peaks Dance Performance.



Sara was able to do a tap and a ballet dance.
These five cute girls come from our neighborhood. They have had a great year taking Jazz together.
Our three girls!

Monday, May 24, 2010

Last week of School - SNOW?

This is what we woke up to this morning. Yikes! I'm really tired of winter.Last weekend, we planted flowers and now I'm wondering if they will freeze? The kids have outdoor activities planned for everyday this week. Are we sure it's really May 24th? I think we might need to adjust the calendar.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Practicing Pays Off

Sara and two of her friends have been practicing hard to make it into the school talent show. Tuesday they tried out in their own class, Wednesday they did their dance for the entire second grade (175+ kids) and today they just found out that they made it into the School Talent Show for tomorrow. Only five second graders made it. She is so excited... She is a little scared. We are all thrilled for her...We can't wait to watch her perform again. Way to go-Sara, Jensen & Brie. We think you are all so brave.
Sara is on the left side in the video below:

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

You might be a redneck if...

...you walk out your front door and this is what's going on in your own front yard.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Mother's Day

I am a blessed mother to have five happy, wonderful, healthy children.
They mean the world to me.

Sara's self-portrait in the midst of the lilacs.

Enjoying the day with Derek's parents and
his brother Greg.

swimsuits

Problem:
We LOVE to swim at Snowbird but despise the excess chlorine which ruins our swimsuits. This picture represents the same exact suit bought together at the same time last year. The one on the right was taken to Snowbird for a week and the other one was left at home.

Solution:
Plenty of hand me down swimsuits that won't matter much if we ruin them. The girls can enjoy the fun of the pool as much as possible and not have to worry about their suit.
My sister gave me a "bag o' suits". I would love to share any that fit your girls.

Saturday, May 8, 2010

An Inspirational Mother

I have been reading NieNie's Blog for the past 18 months and there are times when I just sit and weep. Stephanie has such incredible strength and endurance. I am amazed at her spirit and love for those around her. She is a great example of faith and hope. She chooses to be happy each day through difficult circumstances. What a beautiful woman...What a beautiful mother!

Friday, May 7, 2010

Happy Birthday Derek!

Yes, another birthday for Derek. Time passes so quickly. Fortunately, I can always say I am younger than him. Thank goodness we still feel like we are in our twenties. It's all good!

20 (Very Random) Things About DB...

1. He works harder than almost anyone I know.
2. He loves peanut butter capn' crunch just like a little kid.
3. He gives the most amazing foot massages. (hint, hint)
4. He can learn a new sport or skill really quickly.
5. He can play the guitar like he has been playing for a few years (it's only been a few months).
6. He loves to waterski and he looks hot on a Slalom Ski.
7. He loves running in marathons, 1/2 marathons, triathlons...I don't know why he loves it?...but, I love to watch him.
8. He is always on time (or as he would say... "if your not 5 min early your late")
9. He likes to play card games with me and video games with Jake.
10. He loves to find a real dive Mexican joint like Juinitos, Lone Star, etc.
11. He gives the best hugs!
12. He likes to watch and talk about Lost with his kids (the older ones). I gave up in season 2.
13. He helps to bring in lightheartedness and humor in a home full of drama-girls.
14. His favorite candy bar is Reese's Peanut Butter Cup.
15. He likes to read books and always finishes at least 2 or 3 while I am still working on 1.
16. He loves to travel with and spend time with our family.
17. He doesn't like being the center of attention/person in the spotlight.
18. He loves Nielsen Frozen Custard.
19. A perfect day for Derek would involve being by a beach or water, bike riding, surfing, swimming, hiking, snorkeling, running...anything active.
20. He is the most patient, consistent, and steady person. It is one of the things I am most thankful for in him.

I feel so blessed that I have known this man for over 25 years. He is so different than me in so many ways but so alike in other ways that really matter. I appreciate his wonderful qualities and I love to spend time with him. Hopefully, some of his great qualities will rub off on me.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Loverboy!!!

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

TULIPS!!




Before going to the Tulip Festival the girls set up these pedicure stations. Heated water included. Pedicures anyone?

Monday, May 3, 2010

Weekend in Chicago

Heather and Steve met us in Chicago. Actually, they drove up, picked us up curbside, and took us to Giordano's for Chicago style pizza. Woo Hoo! We stayed right on Magnificent Mile and our weekend was fast and furious. I love all there is to see in Chicago and we had the greatest weather: 70+ degrees. We walked all over both days...I even have a giant blister to prove it.


Friday night we saw Blue Man Group. A totally unique theatre experience. SO COOL! It's hard to believe all they do without any expression and no words.
The Bean in Millennium Park


Inside the bean. We are the four dots in the center with muted reflections all around.
Me and Heather

My new favorite restaurant - Grand Lux Cafe - Delicious!

"Take me out to the ball game..." Wrigley Field

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks. What an awesome game!! The score was close the whole time. Cubs Win 7-5.
Garretts Gourmet Popcorn... YUM!
Michigan Bridge

Sunset Lake and River Tour

On the last night we walked to the Buckingham Fountain (no photos-dead battery). For 20 minutes on the hour the fountain goes off into a giant 150 ft geyser with music & color changing lights.
What a fantastic trip!! I would love to go back!