Silver Tabs

Chiggity Check this out

2011-04-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

I love that my basement is making progress, here is a whole new room that was created for our utilities (water softener, water heater, and furnace). Still lots to do, but we're workin on it.

Thanks Gary, Jordan, and Aaron for all you hard work!

11 Minute increase!

2011-04-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

It is Sunday night, pain still fully enforced in my legs and I keep thinking what my next 1/2 marathon goal should be? I could always try to increase my time, but I am super pleased with my time on this race. To me speed is not everything - each race I do I am reminded of how the only person you are competing with is yourself. Because I am not a competitive person it is the perfect sport for me. The entire idea of running a race, even a 5k (3.1 miles), was completely undoable a year ago, here I am now wondering what the next step will bring. I am happy to say that I am enjoying running - it is no longer a thorn in my side.

13.1 - two

2011-04-12T09:44:00.001-07:00

This weekend brings my second half marathon. Although my training for this event has not been as diligent as my first, I feel good and excited for the challenge. In my preparations for this race I was able to run the course - it takes you through some fun neighborhoods of well kept yards (always a favorite of mine), and some cute older homes. There are moments of down hill which will be great for momentum and rest of pushing myself forward.

HI HO, HI HO

2011-04-01T10:22:00.000-07:00

Spring break is here! I am so excited to have some time off, hopefully the weather will cooperate. Aaron on I are on our way down to St. George for time away from the kids. Thanks Mom and Steve for taking them for the weekend. Who knows what we will do, but that is the best part about vacation. Enjoy your kids this week my friends.

My new favorite thing

2011-03-29T13:12:00.000-07:00

Van is LOVING reading, he wants to read books to himself, he wants to have books read to him, and he wants to read to Finn each night before bed. He is such a good big brother - the first night he read to Finn before bed was the cutest thing I have ever seen. They read and finished a book, then Van says "OK Finn, lets say a prayer" They then got on the floor to pray, it was so sweet. Of course I did not have my camera out and ready, so this is a partial replay of the new nightly reading ritual.

Dear Friends and Family

2011-03-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

Next time you see me and/or my sweet ride, please tell me how good my new tires look. It was the most un-fun, un-satisfying thing I have ever spent money on. - oh well, that's life. Right?

Zoo in a winter wonderland

2011-02-25T07:13:00.000-08:00

This weekend we headed up to the zoo. Van got a new book from the book fair with 100 facts of deadly creatures, we took it to the zoo to see how many from the book were at the zoo. He was very into the search and taught me about how deadly they were. Thanks to Kevin and Shannon who let me play mom to a little girl-it's so fun, but no it has not changed my mind about more kiddos.

Here you go

2011-02-14T12:38:00.000-08:00

Aaron just got back from a guys road trip. Rob that used to live with us was/is moving from near Chicago to Dallas, Texas. Aaron flew back to drive this journey with Robert. I sent the camera with Aaron telling him to take lots of pictures - I have never seen that part of the country. This is what he came back with, yes there are only TWO. So, the top is Rob getting gas, hi Rob. The second is an accident on the freeway, that diverted them off the free way (that, and Rob's Tom Tom).
They had lots of fun and glad they could be reunited for a few days.

THIRTY THREE

2011-01-12T18:41:00.000-08:00

Aaron has hit his 33rd year of life. Wow member when you were little, and to think of 33... you didn't even know that was an age someone could be.
Happy Birthday Aaron! I love you so much and am so glad I am married to you!!!

Christmas in a nutshell

2011-01-07T09:04:00.001-08:00

This Christmas was the perfect amount of everything! I really enjoyed spending time with my boys, and seeing family here and there. When the kids are not in school they get to watch movies at night and play later than usual. I thought the boys were playing, when I went in to check on them this is what I found - asleep in the clothes baskets. We did have to move them to their beds because I was afraid Van's head was going to pop off, and Finn might have major crampage in the morning. Cute brothers

Finn testing out some pilot gear at Jeff and Carolina's.

On Christmas Eve morning we get together with my mom and Steve to celebrate. The kids were so excited to be together, and of course to be spoiled by Grandma and Steve.

Here we are, checking out/opening what Santa brought for the kids.

A tradition lost then found. We each create a gingerbread house, I think we think it is a competition, but then they are all to good to decide - what do you think? Here is Van's house

Shannon and Kim's creation, inspired by Phobee's doll house on Friends.

Kevin's house.

Finn's house, mostly made for eating not to look at.

Aaron - architectural mastermind.

As a farewell gathering before the cousins left, we went to Chuck E. Cheese - always a good time.

Finn rode this little ride over and over and over again. The ride would take a picture of you and print out a black and white photo for the rider. I think we had 10-15 photos by the time we were done.

Crazy hair day

2010-12-15T07:41:00.000-08:00

I love that I get to share these precious moments with my kids at school. Van was so excited to be able to wear his hair this way.

Done, Done at last

2010-12-07T13:04:00.001-08:00

Hats off to all of you who have run a 1/2 marathon (13.1 miles), or full marathon (26.2 miles). Man oh man was that the hardest self motivating thing I have done, EVER! I am glad I did it, and glad it is done. I now have a time frame to work towards for my race in April. Thanks so much to all of you who have expressed your support, and encouragement. And thanks to my two lady friends who committed to do this task with me, I will forever be grateful.

Viewer discretion advised

2010-11-30T08:03:00.000-08:00

Here is my oldest son getting his first stitches. I fear this will not be the first time. Van was tubing down at the school (it was a tube someone gave them at the playground - we do not own tubes because of things like this.) He ran into the basketball stand and busted his head open.

Luckily Gary was available to help out with this incident. This is a picture after the stitching. Van was so brave and didn't make a sound while he was getting fixed up with 14 (I think) stitches.

Five days later it is time for the stitches to come out. I think he is nervous.

Grandpa at work. Thanks to Dr. Grandpa and Nurse Nana for staying calm and helping us (Van and mom) stay calm.

Here is Van telling his story.

10 down, 13.1 to go

2010-11-27T16:33:00.000-08:00

Today was the last long run I did before my 13.1 mile race next weekend. All went well, except for the nasty cold weather, my training schedule says I should be able to go the whole 13.1 with out any problems. For those of you who keep saying "how do you even get to a point where you can run 10 miles?" Here is the site I used, loved, and will use again www.halhigdon.com it is a 12 week program that incorporates running, strength training, and stretching - LOVED IT!
AND I finally feel like I can call myself a runner with having a half marathon under my belt, and one planned for the future.

I can't even stand it

2010-11-09T19:26:00.000-08:00

As my boys grow older they have new things that make me want to cry. I remember crying when Van started sounding out words when he was 4 almost 5. I remember watching Finn go from hardly any talking to jabber jaws. Now as they continue to make progress in every way possible, tears are leaking out of my eyes regularly.
Van is learning to roll with the punches (his wining has been happening less and less - not gone yet, but less). I can see Finn growing in all the ways he needs to, striving to be ready for kindergarten next year.
This week has been a lot of craziness with kids going here and there, being picked up by Shannon, and Aaron while mom gets to stay late and school and tend to her other kids.
Tonight I came home to a fantastic inventive surprise. Van created a potion for me to see. Not only that but he included (in his new journal from the book fair) the recipe for this secret potion. Once again the tears are streaming -

I truly can not stand how cute and ... there are no words for how much I love being their mom!

Look at this

2010-11-03T10:24:00.001-07:00

Look what I came across as I was cleaning out my files on my school computer.
SO LONG AGO! Doesn't quite seem complete without Finny.

A ya

2010-10-28T07:11:00.000-07:00

Van has shown an interest in Karate. We have discussed it is not a sport you get to run and goof around while in session. This is a little clip of his first trial run - part of the reason we have decided to put Van into karate is because of his overexcited personality that keeps him from staying focused at school. It has been less than 24 hours and I have already seen him trying to have the mind of a karate kid. This karate school I took him to has 3 rules (sweet, sweet rules):

1. Obey your parents

2. Keep your room clean

3. No fighting

What more could you ask for?

Stay with me

2010-10-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

And once again I have not stayed on top of blogging so here is a catch up post.
I don't know if I will ever get tired of the casual strolling through the zoo.

When we were at the cabin for Van's birthday we say these mom and baby moose, the picture on top we nearly ran into the baby on the trail - noticed the mom was not far behind. We decided to turn and walk the other way.

Our evening out on the Trax. They have a sweet deal - $16.00 for 4 riders using any of the UTA transportation. We did the "Frontfrunner", and Trax. It was fun, and the boys LOVED it.

First day of school for my very first 1st grader.

Van invited a few friend from school to Boondocks for his birthday. They played laser tag, and rode go karts. First grade boys are funny.

We spent the night up at Aunt April's house. It was so fun, we took our bikes and rode around Liberty, and played a little guitar hero. The next day we went up to watch Kevin race at Snowbasin.

More pictures from the cabin. Van is showing off his sweet new bike. This was his birthday cake, he all of a sudden loved snowboarding for a few days - where ever that came from?

The moment you have all been waiting for...

2010-10-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

BEFORE
As you may have read in an earlier post, this summer - in JULY - we re did our roof. Although I am forever scared from this experience, yesterday we got the final finishing touches added (gutters, soffit, and fascia). I am so excited to have this project complete and super excited about the way it looks. Thanks again to all who helped with labor, watching the boys, and cleaning the house!

AFTER

Happy Birthday to my oldest son

2010-09-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

Van is 7, HOLY COW! We went to the cabin to celebrate his big day. Thanks to all that could join us, Van was so excited to have you there. We were able to enjoy the great outdoors, and to see some moose a mom and baby - so cute!

Van got a bike for his birthday, he LOVES to ride his bike anytime he can. Of course he had to bring it to the cabin, even though the riding was not the best.

Van is in first grade, and I have loved having him here at my school. I get to watch him walk down the halls as a first grader - it is so hard not to tackle him with hugs every time I see him.

Technical Difficulties

2010-09-22T12:20:00.001-07:00

This is what happens when you have 17 kids coming to you for questions about things you have already answered only seconds before, FRUSTRATING!
Sorry friends and family
I love you all

spelling list

2010-09-21T13:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry, my weeks blended together.
There will be no math homework tonight. Today we took chapter 2 test, tomorrow we will be correcting our test and taking unit 1 test. We will start chapter 3 (unit 2) on Thursday.
Here are the spelling words for this week:

thrown, mood
stole, loaf
clue, growth
dew, youth
choose, slope
rule, bruise
boast, loose
cruise, rude
stroll, flow
route, flute
challenge words:
subdue
pursuit
molten
reproach
presume

Welcome, Welcome

2010-09-09T20:58:00.001-07:00

We are glad to have yet another Higginson cousin join the crew. Andrew Nairn Higginson. Wish they were a little bit closer.

Summer time count down - yuck

2010-08-03T13:35:00.001-07:00

Summer is winding down and I, for the first time-I think-am not anticipating the return to school. This summer has been filled with fun, and more fun. I have decided that because my kids are older and we are not trying to get back home to inforce naps we have been able to be out and about more so than years past. FUN! These are a few pictures that have been taken here and there. This picture of Finn was taken at his cousin, Layla, birthday party. I love it

Van lost his first tooth. A month or so ago Van said something to the effect of getting $5 dollars from the tooth fairy. I aske him where he heard $5.00 was the going rate, he said someone at school. I didn't want to let him down, so $5.00 it was - he wrote a letter to the tooth fairy asking if he could keep his tooth to show people. Is that something people want to see? I thought is was kinda cool.

This picture is also from Layla's birthday party. Shannon sent this to Aaron and said it looks like an ad for how to be cool. It made me laugh.

Finn chillin' at the park.

NIGHTMARE ON OUR STREET

2010-08-03T13:31:00.001-07:00

I can not relive the experience of redoing our roof to tell you the story. Just know, it was the worst thing for me ever! Thank you, thank you, thank you to those who helped in any way. We could not have completed it with out you. If you are considering doing your own roof, please talk to me before you start this never ending project. Oh, but look how cute my kids were at trying to help clean up the mess.

Colorado Fun!

2010-08-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

This summer I decided to try a trip with the boys. I was very nervous and because I knew Aaron wouldn't be there to help tame them in the car I was ultra prepared. Surprisingly they were really well behaved for a 9.5hour trip. We headed to Colorado Springs to spend some time with my cousin Jamica and her family.

Took a little lunch break at some college in Wyoming. The kids got thier scooters out to ride for a bit.

Both kids were zonked on this picture - it was a little scary. We were driving inside the clouds, for a long time I finally had to call Aaron so I didn't get to scared.

Finn found a new best friend. This is my cousin's dog named Charlie, at all hours of the day and night you could hear Finn asking or calling for "Char Char". He really did love him.

Here are a few of the kids together. Van asked how they were related to these kids, I couldn't figure it out. Bryan, Jamica's husband told me they are cousins once removed (whatever that means? Removed from where?).

At their zoo you could buy waffer things to feed the giraffs, it was so neat. I think I was the only one who screamed with the encounter.

Face painting was available, most of the kids got their faces painted. Most of those kids washed them off immediately. But the 3 that kept them painted sure looked cute!

When Aaron saw this picture he said "Woa, they let you touch the elephants?" This is infact a life size picture of elephants. I think my favorite part of the zoo was the hippos. I didn't get any pictures.

In the bird house you could buy feeding sticks. The birds would land right on them and eat. It was way cool.

Here we are in the mountains were they rent property. The kids had fun wandering around and swinging on swings.

This picture shows Finn's everlasting search for working, and "helping" in any situation.

Record Breaking

2010-07-20T14:27:00.001-07:00

Naughtyness! I can not believe the naughty behavior Finn is starting to be capable of, AND having an older brother who helps contribute knocks all other naughtyness out of the park. We have lost DS's, park fun, and had lots of time outs. I hope this is not how my summer is going to wind down - we have been having lots of fun doing lots of fun stuff, maybe that is the problem. Any suggestions?

FOUR MILES! YIPPEE

2010-07-15T15:34:00.000-07:00

This is lame, but this morning I ran 4 miles with out stopping on my treadmill - which doesn't say much since running on land is 500% harder. But still 4 miles is 4 miles. Yea me!

My First Flower Pot

2010-06-24T13:19:00.001-07:00

We are going on year 3 in our house, each year I tell Aaron I want to get a big flower pot for the front porch. This year was finally the year. With the help of my friend Brittany I picked out these plants to watch them grow. I am excited to see what it looks like as they get bigger. Thanks Brittany!

Kangaroo Zoo

2010-06-24T13:15:00.000-07:00

Today we tried out the Kangaroo Zoo. Lots of bouncey toys to play on, and it was cute to see the boys tagging along with each other to try each new bounce house out.

Past little bit

2010-06-22T20:50:00.000-07:00

This is the part I hate about neglecting my blog - catching up. These are a few pictures of some of the things we have been doing the last few months.

Finn & Kyan - they could get into a lot of trouble, those two!
All the cousins

Finn was the only kid daring enough to submerge his head in the water.

Van, loving his swim lessons - mostly to be in the pool, not so much for the actually swim lesson.

Finn sniffing something from the river by grandpa's house (he has an oddly terrific smeller).

This is the boys helping out in the yard - I'm not sure why the decided to take their shirts off, but it sure is cute.

Took a walk up Muller Park Canyon

These pictures show Van's new gun. The expression on his face above is excitement of hitting a target. Like father, like son.

Finn's first shooting trip with the boys. He might need another year before he's ready for an all day shooting excursion.

Silver/Wood kids on a little shooting extravaganza - Fun stuff

OH MY!

2010-06-11T16:20:00.000-07:00

My last post was in April, it is now summer and we have been so busy with swim lessons, cherry hill, zoo, and swimming at nana's. I guess we can go back to school...just kidding. I saw that blogger has new templates, so I selected one that shows how many books I will not be reading this summer. I wish time would allow, but to keep my kids happy I better not. Hope summer plans are going well, I will try to visit more often to keep up on our summer adventures.

My long range tactical genius

2010-04-11T16:26:00.000-07:00

Aaron took part of a tactical long range shooting match this weekend, and came in FIRST place of 18 shooters. He continues to give the details of the day, and although I don't know what he is talking about I am glad he did so well and is excited about it. I am also glad he is now certain it does not take an even more expensive gun to win the game.

OREGON

2010-04-06T10:17:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Gary we were able to fly up to Oregon instead of drive. Although I felt I was prepared to drive, I fear my anxiety would have taken over once we hit the road.

Well we decided to go ahead with the coast. We knew the weather was supposed to be rainy, we hoped it would only be a little, but - it wasn't.

We stopped at the store to buy a few snacks, and some medicine for my insane car sickness. Here are all the kids in the cart. As we were leaving the store a lady said to me "are those all yours?" I assumed she ment the kids, I replied no and went on my way.

It was fun to see the ocean, and it was fun, being at the ocean during a rain storm. The kids had fun, until they were soaked through with rain. Big Spencer kept them intertained.

This is a seagull that was so excited to see what was going on inside Spencers car.

On the way home we stoped at the Redwoods, man those trees are big. It is crazy how they grow next to, around, and with in existing trees. Here is Van with one of his ever so cheesy poses.

Aaron has sent me pictures of the snow filled Bountiful, I think I would rather be in rainy, rainy weather than the dumb snow. I hate the snow, especially in April. We miss daddy, and hope he is not partying to much with out us.

Happy Early Easter!

2010-03-30T08:37:00.001-07:00

We did a little early celebration of the Easter Bunny. We will be heading up to Oregon to visit the Higginson family the real Easter weekend.

It is so fun to get together with the cousins and grandparents. Thanks for all the fun, grandparents.

It was fun to have John bring Kyan. We don't get to see them very often - man, Kyan is cute!

I couldn't resist this picture. It captures Finn's personality so well, "look mom, look". Always so proud of his accomplishments - good job Finn.

Happy Birthday Finny!

2010-03-22T07:42:00.001-07:00

WOW 4 years old. WOW how different my boys are. Finn is so fun and energetic, bouncing off the walls might be a better verbiage to use. But oh how sweet, in the past few days his funny words have been "I'm towtally (totally) laughing" and my favorite that he has been saying for a while is "...tell you a secret" he then tries to find your ear, then "Iloveyousomuch" kind of a one word deal. It is crazy to believe one year ago he was just getting the hang of talking, now his jaws don't stop. Also potty trained mostly - you gotta love it! We love you so much!

Arizona Holiday

2010-03-16T10:27:00.000-07:00

Aaron and Van headed down to Arizona with Gary and Mary to visit Jordan. Jordan is currently working at the worlds largest sky diving place as one of the pilots who takes the divers up to jump. This is a picture of Van in the wind tunnel, I wish I were there to see it - looks like fun!

winter zoo

2010-03-09T13:43:00.001-08:00

Finn and I were out and about this weekend, and we decided to go ride the train at the zoo. It was about 10:00am and colder than I thought it would be. As you can see not many zoo goers during the winter, but we had fun anyway.

What is that?

2010-03-09T13:08:00.000-08:00

That's right folks, you are looking at lights. These were recently installed by my husband and father-in-law, thank you, thank you, thank you!

Here are a few turned on. It is pretty exciting, at least I think so.

Treadmill

2010-02-25T19:22:00.000-08:00

This year for Christmas, I used my money plus some other saved fundage to buy a treadmill. It is my new favorite thing. Reason #1 I don't have to pay for my gym membership anymore (which I didn't use because I hated leaving my warm house in the early morning to get in my cold car), reason #2 I started a training program www.coolrunning.com couch to 5k program. I have always tried and wanted to run and entire 5k (3.1 miles), I've come close but not quite. This week I am on my 5th week of training - I have run my first 20 minute full run. I did it and was so excited! I have found the training schedule has not been as difficult as I thought, it is actually refreshing.

Yea, for me.

Happy Birthday Daddy

2010-02-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

This weekend was my dad's birthday. We went down to spend some time with him. It was a wet weekend, and we didn't get out much. Of course that is no excuse for my dad, he always has lots of stuff planed for when we come down. This picture shows twinners with my dad and Finn - cowboyboots and jeans.

This is the wildlife museum at the Dixie Center in St. George, it was pretty cool. All of the different animals in thier habitats. At one point the lights turned out and they played a thunder storm, Finn got a little scared but soon revived.

Van was so excited to get this mustache out of a quarter machine, he looks so manly.

At the museum they give the kids binoculars. The boys had a fun time looking and being explorers.

Happy Birthday dad, we had a fun time as always.

Chuck E. Cheeses, where a kid and be a kid

2010-02-23T07:33:00.000-08:00

CHUCK E. CHEESE, remember when we would always go there on our birthday as kids. Man that was the best.
This is not celebrating a birthday but a success at school. Van was so excited to win tickets so he could get prizes. Finn wanted to ride all the moving rides. The horse was his favorite.

The speed of the horse would change if you leaned forward, or moved from side to side - pretty cool, I thought.

Hardware Ranch

2010-02-01T12:30:00.001-08:00

Grandma and Steve invited us to go up to Hardware Ranch. It started out as a cold, snowy morning.

By the time we got up there the snow was slowing down, and plows were working hard to clear the roads.

Finn was so excited to ride on the sleigh with the horses pulling. At one point when we were stopped he yelled "go horsies" - it was cute.

Here is Van acting afraid of the snow cat.

While we were at the visitors center Finn first saw this mountain lion and said "so cute" and kept petting it. The signs said - please do not touch - but he didn't care it was "so cute"

Here are a few of the bull elk we were so close to them, it was fun to see all the things they do, and the noises they make.

Home Theater

2010-01-25T13:05:00.000-08:00

Van made movie tickets for each member of our family. He was in charge of passing out the tickets and letting us into the "theater", and we couldn't do the movies with out popcorn. It was a fun family event (cheap too). Oh - we watched Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, it's a long one.

Bowling

2010-01-19T10:01:00.000-08:00

Last night we went bowling, we had a good time. There were times I was not sure Finn's ball would make it down the lane, he was mostly interested in going to the arcade and playing a car game. In the end Aaron won.

Video soon to come.

Happy 32

2010-01-15T08:30:00.001-08:00

32, WOW. For Aaron's birthday we went out for a dining adventure. We went to Benihana to get sushi. Aaron has had it before, but it wasn't his favorite. With a new year to come he gave it a try and LOVED it! We had lots of different kinds of sushi rolls, and some tempura. He even tried the vegtables and liked them. It was fun to spend time with friends, and enjoy the atmosphere. Happy Birthday!

"my nose hurt"

2010-01-15T08:26:00.001-08:00

After Finn has been crying he will often tell us how his eyes hurt, or his nose hurts. If his nose hurts he asks for a tissue, and if we don't have a tissue he will get upset again and cry more. While we were driving in the car, there was an episode. I did not have a tissue, nor did I want to hear more crying - so I did what any parent would do to make the crying stop. Offered a band aid. The crying did stop, when we got to our destination we found Finn like this. If you can't see it, look at his upper lip - the bandaid.

The City

2010-01-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

Ever since Van was little we would refer to Salt Lake as "the city". He could recognize when we were near "the city" and he knew what we meant when we said "we're going to go to the city". He is always excited to go, no matter what the trip entails. Last weekend we needed to return a few items, so we headed down to the gateway. To get the kids excited about going we told them we would ride trax while we were down there. It was fun, Van likes to stand in the middle where the cars connect so he can turn as we go around corners. Finn just likes being on the train - although he is starting to understand there is a difference in the types of trains: I can not verbalize in words the way he says front runner, but it is so cute, he also knows about the train at the zoo and all things things we see on that train. And now Trax is also in his train data base. I have always known I love spending time with my kids, but sometimes the struggles out way the fun times. Lately when I am out doing things with friends or I am away from my kids for a time, I get anxious to spend time with them. They really are the funniest to be around.

New template

2010-01-08T10:36:00.001-08:00

I like this template, it makes me feel like an architects wife. I know Aaron would only roll his eyes and say "why?". The answer is I don't know, it just does - like many of my other reasonings.
Have a good day!

Farewell Diet Coke Bank

2010-01-07T13:26:00.001-08:00

I am so sad to say that the diet coke bank (Van's words) that is right near my house (that had the "good" ice) has closed it's doors. I nearly cried when I pulled through the drive through and read the sign.

Good-bye Sinclair

Christmas Vacation "Wal-mart"

2010-01-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

It was fun to be able to be home with the kids over the holiday. We had fun and tried our hardest to stay busy. I was not as organized as I was this summer with our time at home. Poor organization = chaos. So, I start my spring break preparations for activities.

One of the few snow days we had over the holiday we stayed home ALL day - that is so unlike me - they kids were so excited to go spend some time outside. I was excited for them!

We decided New Year's Day to head down to see grandpa in Hurricane. While we were there they had a wild west shoot out. These groups of people (sort of like a bowling league) go around to different sights and put on these competition things. The public is welcome and we had a good time watching them in their costumes and using their old time guns and such.

The Silver family version of the Polar Express.

My mom put together a gift extraviganza for the kids. They got to open one gift a day, they were little toys, crafts, and goodies. This was one of the gifts.

My 5th grade students were learning about electricity, they built a Christmas Village by making a circuit with a battery. Van was so intrigued he wanted to build one too. His is the one with the green outline around it.

Most blogs I have checked seem to have this same tradition - Christmas Jamies.

One thing I can say that many of you know who know my dad, he loves his cowboy boots. He got a pair for each of the grand kids, except the two small ones - maybe next year?

Finn is all tuckered out from our morning of present opening.

Van likes to be like his dad anytime he gets a chance. Aaron got a few new supplies for work and Van wanted to try them on.

Christmas magic

2009-12-09T08:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we got home from school and it had been snowing all day. I said to the kids as we pulled into the garage "let's shovel the driveway, so daddy doesn't have to do it when he gets home" Van shouts out "Christmas Magic" I asked what Christmas magic was and he went on to tell me it is doing something for someone with out being asked or getting paid for. We cleared out driveway off and Van wanted to do the neighbors, he went over, knocked on the door and asked if he could shovel, then added "it's free". I was so cute, I love watching my boys grow, they surprise me everyday and make me laugh everyday.
Merry Christmas

Sounds of the Sabbath

2009-12-01T14:23:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday in sacrament meeting they had different people in the ward come up and tell us a favorite hymn then we would sing a verse of that hymn. It was delightful, we got to sing all the good ones, plus there wasn't a lot of talking that I couldn't listen to because my kids needed attention. I could sing even when I was helping them, they should do that more often.

lovely Finn

2009-11-24T11:51:00.000-08:00

Aaron and I have a calling in our church to run the library. Each week as we go up early to get things going Finn likes to stand on a chair or stool and sing. There is a microphone stand that props the door open, so he proceeds to get a book (his singing book) and sing. Aaron told me last week he was singing to each new costomer, here is a picture - so cute.

A shooting we will go

2009-11-24T07:31:00.001-08:00

Here is Van and Ridley tagging along with Aaron and Jeff for a regular day of shooting. I love that they are old enough to go spend time with their dads - good bonding. I used the film section of the editing gear to make this picture look like this.

photo editing

2009-11-16T14:30:00.001-08:00

As I have said before I got a new camera. Now I am playing around with different editing skills, here is one tecnique my sister has helped me with:

Sleeping beauty

2009-11-13T07:43:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I have a hard time sleeping, either I can't stop thinking about stuff or I just am not tired but I know that if I don't sleep the next day will not be successful. So this weekend I saw a sleeping mask at Old Navy for 3 dollars, I bought it.

The last two nights Van has been fighting bed time, he says he is scared of the shadows in his room. After many minutes of fighting I decided maybe he could use my mask - at first that wasn't going to do it, then I suggested he listen to my ipod (kids music) while he fall asleep. Finally he agreed. I could not resist this photo:

Won't this be great in his wedding video.

HALLOWEEN

2009-11-05T07:28:00.000-08:00

Halloween week seemed very busy this year. With Van in kindergarten it added a bit more excitement to our calandar. Also the pictures on this post are taken with our new camera, YIPEE! At school we had a halloween parade, then the kindergarten put on a little song program. The camera was not purchased at the time and Van was pretending like he was not sick, when really he was. So naturally I was more concerned about how he was feeling than the program. Later that night Shannon invited us over to the Days annual pumpkin carving fest: I know the picture is fuzzy, but it was the cutest one. Van was so excited to

be able to carve with Shannon.

Later in the evening Aaron took Van over to the Days once again to do the final carving-here is the finished product. Aaron did one too.

The next day was Halloween day, Shelly invited us up to decorate cupcakes, the kids had lots of fun eating the cupcakes and candy involved. The finished products turned out really cute.

And of course trick-or-treating:

Aaron did a pumpkin too, and finally we went to the Silver's for the after party - the kids were tired and ready to be done. It was a fun holiday, and I am glad for the new camera to capture it all!

Day One

2009-08-25T07:39:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was the first day of school, it is a different feeling to have a first day of school that includes your child going to actual school. I was excited for Van, and nervous. He now has to wait until next Monday to come to school full time (the rest of this week they do testing). I really like having him at my school, I am excited to see him during assemblies, and in the halls. Finn was excited to go back to see his friends and teachers - I am so glad my kids have been able to go to Viewmont's Daycare!

Two gone

2009-07-27T19:28:00.000-07:00

Two of the Silver boys are out of town this week (Aaron and Van). Grandpa Gary took them to the air show in Oshkosh, WI (I think it is in Wisconsin?). While they are away I am trying to find activities to keep my littlest busy body busy. Today we had an eventful day: We did our usual Cherry Hill Monday (met up with Shelly and Olivia), came home for nap time (always fun!), went to run an errand to Salt Lake to find out I did not have what I needed to resolve the errend, when I got home there was a message from Shelly inviting us to get some dinner with her and Olivia (San Fansico Sour dough Pizza -YUM), we then joined Shelly and Olivia for a hike up Muhler Park canyon - the kids had a good time and did really well considering all the distractions.
Thanks Shelly and Livy for the day of fun!

Gary asked Van what his favorite part of Oshkosh was so far, and Van said "resting in the tent.

Finn and I have been enjoying our time with just the two of us. He is so funny, I am laughing out loud many times aday. This is a picture of Finn talking to Jesus, this is how the conversation went

"Hi, Jesus...gibberish...gibberish...my mad...gibberish..." (my mad means I'm mad)

Aaron and Van get home today and I we can't wait to see them. I am glad they were able to go and spend time together with Grandpa Gary, Thanks grandpa. Here are just a few more pictures of Van enjoying all the planes.

First Timer

2009-07-27T19:22:00.000-07:00

Van was so excited to race his first race. He participated in the Bountiful kids K (.62 of a mile) He was so cute while running, I think he was more interested in his surroundings than the act of running, I was nervous he was going to trip.

When the race was complete they gave out medals, and Van is cherishing his race number (he is convinced he won the race) Good job Van!

Newest member of the family

2009-07-14T18:56:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to say WELCOME HOME to our new cousin, baby Layla Marie Day. What a journey and adventure Kevin and Shannon have been on. Visit there sites if you have a minute, make sure you have a kleenex.

Here is the sweet picture of the boys and thier cousin Layla, not to be confused with Lila (their other cousin on the other side). I think we have permenantly confused Finn, he now refers to Layla as my cousin.

Documentation

2009-07-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

I have decided it will be my pass (or is it past) time to blog - at least for now. I have been trying to get pictures of all the things we do. For awhile I was a bit sad on how when I looked at others blogs how filled with fun they were. I am not sure why I felt sad, WE (the silver's) have fun so here is our fun the past few weeks:

I met up with my cousin Jessica to go to visit the Thanksgiving Point Museum, there was lots for the kids to do: they ran (mostly Finn) around the museum looking at the all the bones, then there was a section where they could play in the sand/water, as you are exiting the museum there is a fossil diggining station the kids had a good time.

One of the many parks in Bountiful, it has not been super hot yet, that makes park days a lot more enjoyable for the adults.

Aaron's parents invited us to see the Utah Symphony perform at Thanksgiving Point, they have an outdoor ampitheater with grass. Seldom do I get in the pictures, and now I know why (look how much of the picture my teeth take up) It was fun to spend time with them and have an evening out with out the kiddies - Thanks Gary and Mary

Late afternoon is when Van will conk out in the car if we go somewhere. We went to run an errand and Finn (who already had his nap) was comforting Van as he dozed off "cmere Zan, is ok" I love hearing Finn talk, he has made HUGE progress in the past 6 months. But this whole scene was one of the sweetest I have seen.

They have been re-doing our road, and starting today we can not park in our driveway for a week. Late last night Aaron and I took our cars down to the school to be safe. As we left the house today for our day of outings my arms were loaded, the kids were slowly fallowing me (lots of tractors to stop and see), I got to the car put ALL the stuff from my arm in the car, go Van in and Finn was nowhere on the walking path to be found. Van says "there he is" I could not see him, as I continue looking I glance up and there he is up in the tractor ready to go help with the road. Even though I was scared the workers were going to yell at me for him touching and pushing every button available to touch and push, I had to get a picture. Anyone who knows Finn knows he gets away at an incredible rate, and thinks he is doing no wrong - I love our monkey harness!

This post looks sort of like one of my sisters - no offense Kris. Perhaps I should post more often, I always tell her she puts so much on one post as I read through her blog I think of comments but by the time I get to the bottom, I forget what I was going to say on each of the pictures or comments. Lastly I am having a fun summer being at home with my kids - organization is key!

Truckin right along

2009-07-06T12:19:00.000-07:00

Man, summer is flying by. We have in the past few weeks been going, going, going. Aaron got a new truck, he traded in his commuter car for a manly vehicle - and he does feel more manly. They boys rather enjoy it too.

I have been doing all that I can to stick to a schedule for my sake and my kids sake, this is a tentative schedule of our daily routine. So far so good, it has been fun to try to come up with activities for my kids to stay busy.

I bought this puzzle to take to the cabin a few weeks ago and we didn't get around to completing it, so I brought it home and finished. Every once in a while I get into a puzzle funk, I think it is good for the brain?

Next on the list of summer stuff is to start getting my ideas put together for next years school year - it is difficult because there are so many ideas out there trying to put them into working order can be overwhelming. But I have great confidence this next school year will be a success!

cabin fever

2009-06-29T21:01:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we headed up to the family cabin. We were joined by the Wood and Garlick Families. The kids had fun exploring and running around the spacious place. The adults enjoyed good dialog, good food, and fun games while we tried to get the kids to sleep. Every time we go there I remember how much I love it there! This picture is Carolina exploring ways to improve her vision.

Summer time, livin is easy

2009-06-14T18:10:00.001-07:00

We just got back from a trip to Oregon. It was fun to stay with my sister and spend time with her family. Aaron got to do a little shooting, and golfing. I don't know if we have ever really hung out with Kristi and Spencer besides holiday get togethers - it was fun for Aaron to get to know Spencer a little better (only after 9 years). We went to parks, let the kids play, and watched some serious Wipe Out action (the TV show). Here are a few pictures from the park.

Aaron was not going to come on this trip but decided to a week before we left - Thank goodness, I didn't realize how LONG of a drive it was. I can't believe how often Kristi and Spencer come to Utah knowing the duration of travel. BUT, the time spent there made up for the longness of the drive. Thanks Kristi and Spencer for your hospitality!

Shooting time

2009-05-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

Aaron took Van shooting this weekend. They had a good time and Van was so excited to go spend the day with Aaron doing grown up things.

Our last Hurah's

2009-05-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Van finished his soccer season on Saturday. He has shown much improvement from the fall. His coach put lots of time into showing them soccer tecniques, and different moves - it is so fun to watch them use the tricks. Thanks Jill for a job well done.

Thirty Something

2009-05-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

I have decided birthdays as you get older are more fun because it seems you celebrate for a longer period of time. Last Friday my mom and Steve cooked a delicious birthday dinner for me and my family, last night Melissa and Sarah took me out for dinner and some shopping, today is the actual day - cake and ice cream, and Aaron has arranged something for the weekend. So a week of people celebrating your birth is awesome - or I am just surrounded by awesome people who like to make me feel loved. Thanks everyone.

PLUS - Look how cute my students are, they have been giving me gifts all day. One student, Mason, had his mom bring in a cake - I've never had that before. I am so lucky!

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T07:34:00.000-07:00

This is the first mother's day that feels like a true mother's day. Up until now it has been more of a husband treat your wife nice day. Van came into my bedroom at 7:00am to give me the gift that was prepared at school. He was so excited for me to open it, when I was done opening he said "I want to bring you breakfast in bed" I told him I didn't want to get cereal and milk all over the bed, and I would like to have all of us sit down at the table together. As I was getting up and getting cereal taken care of Van came in to tell me he had prepared a menu for tonights dinner, and that it was a surprise. He was just so sincere and cute in all his mother's day tactics, I really did feel appreciated. When it came time for dinner, I selected some items from the menu, and he served me dinner.
He is very excited to do the same for father's day.
Thanks Van for making mother's day so special, I love you.

20 days and counting

2009-05-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

Any of you who have kids in school that get out June 5, there are TWENTY more days of school. I don't know if that is a good thing or not, but I am pretty excited!

The past few months

2009-04-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

I think I haven't blogged in a while because it seems like we don't do anything. When I look at other peoples blogs, especially my sisters, we are boring - maybe I am a little jealous.

Here are a few pictures from some of the stuff we have done:

We went to Hurricane for spring break. Grandpa rented a rhino four wheeler for our family. It was so much fun. The kids loved being buckled in the back riding with their helmets on.

Grandma and Steve did an easter egg hunt for the kids, Kristi was in town - so all the kids were there. Van is going threw a stage of needing to have exactly what his cousin Spencer has, even if he really wants something else - I HATE IT!

Here is Finn cruisin to the finish line, I guess.

Van showing off his scooter stunts, he's so brave.

While Kristi was in town it was lil' Spencer's birthday. He invited Van to Chuck E. Cheese to celebrate - I thougth this was so cute (Kristi might have already put it on her blog?)

Ok, Ok, Ok

2009-04-20T20:12:00.000-07:00

I think I am feeling like I want to blog again. I have many pictures to add, but they are from the last time I was on. So tomorrow I will post them all, they may or may not have comments.
Hope you all are having a great day.

Throwing up is stupid

2009-01-16T16:23:00.000-08:00

Van was sick today. I think this is the first time he realizes what it means to be sick. He has been up since 5:00am with a bucket by his side. After about the 4th time he finished cleaning up and said "throwing up is stupid". I feel bad for him, but that was probably the cutest thing I have heard in a while.
Get better, Van.

Happy Holidays

2009-01-12T09:42:00.001-08:00

Did that go way to fast or what? It was fun being home with the kids for the break, we hung out and cleaned and enjoyed time with family.

This was the first big storm, I think it started on the 19th - that was the day school got out. It was a nice way to start the holiday fun.

Shelly invited us up to decorate gingerbread cookies. She made all those, isn't she amazing. It was fun to see the kids creativity, and mingle with new friends.

The finished product. I was proud of the outcome.

This is my favorite part about have two kids. Watching them interact with each other and the sweet moments of Van playing the big brother role.

Christmas tag

2008-12-09T13:29:00.000-08:00

1. Wrapping paper of gift bags? Wrapping paper
2. Real or artificial tree? I love the smell of real, but for convienece we have artificial
3. When do you put up your tree? The Sunday before Thanksgiving
4. Do you like eggnog? Have you ever tried it with Root beer? I like eggnog in small increments, I have never tried it with Root beer, at what point do you root beer it?
5. Favorite gift recieved as a child? Um...That was a long time ago. Sorry mom and dad
6. Hardest person to buy for? Parents, in-laws, brother
7. Easiest person to buy for? My kids
8. Do you have a Nativity Scene? No
9. Worst Christmas gift recieved? deer antlers (it was a white elephant gift)
10. Mail or e-mail Christmas cards? what are Christmas cards?
11. Favorite Christmas movie? Elf
12. When do you start shopping? Whenever I see something someone would like, Jan, Feb, Mar...ect.
13. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Who hasn't
14. Favorite things to eat at Christmas time? treats, oh wait that is all the time
15. Lights on trees? Colored
16. Favorite Christmas song? Baby it's cold outside - the version on Elf soundtrack
17. Travel at Christmas or stay home? What ever
18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Only if I sing the song. Just kidding
19. Angle or star on top of tree? Right now there is a home made star Aaron and Van made last year.
20. Open present Christmas Ever or Christmas Day? majority on Christmas Day, a few Christmas Ever (grantsville)
21. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Um... is there anything annoying - OH when people break into your car and steal thing (sorry about your car and purse Jeff and Carolina).
22. Favorite ornament theme or color? Don't have one
23. Favorite for Christmas dinner? What ever is served.

Man these tags take it out of me.
Again I tag anyone who wants to be tagged!
Merry Christmas.

I have been tagged -twice

2008-12-09T13:06:00.000-08:00

So here it is

7 things I can do:
multi-task quite well
roll my tounge
sing John Jacob Jingle Himer Schmit in Spanish
teach a class full of kids
Make a kite out of paper - it really flies
remember how to get somewhere that I have only been to once, or long ago
Mow and edge all of my lawn in 1 1/2 hours.

7 things I can't do:
anything that includes music
understand facebook
figure out what a jet stream is
stop eating Ghirardelli peppermin bark squares - YUMMY!
think of more things to put on this list...
speak another language
stand how cute my boys are

7 things I like to eat:
Kettle pops
soda
resturaunt food
again, Ghirardelli peppermint bark squares
corn on the cob
chocolate covered strawberries
steak

7 things I always say:
Ill wait (to my students)
stop whining (to Van)
really?
what does that mean?
Aaron will you...
Find you seats in 5,4,3,2,1
So...

Is that right Peg? Thanks for making my think a little.

I invite anyone who wants to be tagged, tagged.

Dear Santa

2008-12-04T12:19:00.000-08:00

I just have to write to you and say my son wrote you a letter last night. Man, was it a task. He was so stressed about what to write and how it looked on the paper. He started writing and then got distracted by drawing a snake, or something. When we were done, I told him I would take it and mail it to you, he FREAKED out telling me you would not want a letter that looked like that - with all the scribble marks and stuff. I assured him you would love it, I even tried to have him email it to you. He told me you don't have a computer. He wrote all of it by himself and I was very proud of him. Please bring him the bike he asked for, so he will understand that it is OK if things aren't perfect. Do you think I have anything to do with his reaction? I hope not.
Thanks Santa - you are the best.
Van's mom

I am thankful for...

2008-11-20T10:25:00.000-08:00

*my good friend Shelly for giving me this idea
*my boys for always making me laugh - out loud
*Aaron - for understanding the need of time away
*Family
*Friends
*having a job I love!
*5th graders sense of humors
*books that teach us
*the internet
*cell phones
*students that can fallow directions
*soda
to be continued...

Funny Finn

2008-11-19T13:24:00.000-08:00

I know I have quotes on the side bar, but Finn is so funny with all his talking now-a-days. The other morning the second he woke up he had a purse on his sholder and was walking around saying "shopping, shopping" He calls Van "brother" Aaron brought to my attention that I refer to Van a lot as "your brother" we are working on that now. We have started painting our hallway and Finn points and says "paint". It is a little funny because he will choose a word and repeat that word over and over - until a new words comes up.
I can't believe how far he has come, hopefully he will be caught up by the time he starts school?

Hurricane

2008-11-12T06:48:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we went down to Hurricane to spend some time with grandpa. This is a lake that is sort of by Zions/Hurricane (I can't remember the real name). The boys had fun running around. We tried to show them how to skip rocks, it was more of a ker-plunk than a skim on top of the water.

Thanks grandpa, for letting us come visit.

So stinkin cute!

2008-11-04T12:47:00.000-08:00

These are a few random pictures I have taken of Finn. He is finally finding joy in toys and other household items.
These headphones are one of Finns favorite things to play with. There is no music coming out, but he loves to wear them around the house.

Don't we all love the huge diaper boxes? These boxes have been trains, planes, and automobiles.

Frustration level is setting in.

Halloween fun!

2008-10-31T05:37:00.001-07:00

I have to begin by say how much Finn's speech has improved. It is saying all sorts of fun things. It was Nanna's birthday this week, we I told Finn we were going to take her to dinner for her birthday he said "Happy". He is starting to be more fluent in putting words together. Last night we went to my schools Halloween Carnival, he said "Halloween party". It is so fun to hear the things he can say these days.
So here is our last post for October, can you believe it is over? Finn is a spider, he was so excited about the hat, he kept tapping the top of his head and saying "hhhat". Van is the coolest power ranger out there. The first picture is Van posing in his power ranger way.

Autum Outdoor swimming

2008-10-24T10:36:00.000-07:00

Yesturday was a nice day. A little cold but the pool was very warm. We went up to Nanna's and Grandpa's and took a dip in the drink (Melissa, is that something?) Anyway, the kids had so much fun swimming with grandpa and Aaron.

Amazing Grace

2008-10-21T20:23:00.001-07:00

Tonight in class we started learning Amazing grace. Even though I am the slowest one in class, and can not transfer from one note to the other very well, I am loving what is being taught. I have attached a clip from you tube, if you want to hear what I may sound like years, and years from now check it out.

As Promised

2008-10-21T09:38:00.000-07:00

Here are a few other pictures from my trip. These are taken at Mary Poppins, and Wicked.

So much fun!

New York City

2008-10-20T13:17:00.000-07:00

Man, what a fun trip. I just got back from New York with my girl friends. It was so perfect of a trip. We ate at some fun resturaunts, saw fun shows, toured the city on the double decker bus. Someone asked me this morning what was my favorite part about the trip, I think the whole thing was my favorite! Here are a few pictures of the city and two of the three friends I went with. More pictures to come.

Thanks to the girls for such a good time and fun memories!

Soccer is done

2008-10-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

Van is done with the first session of soccer this season. The boys had so much fun playing, the first few games were the most successful, as far as attention goes. After that there were other important things on their minds, shadows, shirts over heads, no arms, ect. It was fun to watch, and we are excited to see how it goes in the spring!

Speech Therapy

2008-10-09T13:30:00.000-07:00

Finn is doing very well in speech. His therapist told us yesturday we could start coming once a month instead of twice a month. He was having SOOO much fun blowing bubbles yesturday, I just had to take a picture. He is so stinkin cute!

AMAZING

2008-10-08T07:09:00.001-07:00

As I was logging on to my computer this morning at work, making all the necessary clicks it takes to get onto the programs I need throughout the day, it occured to me how crazy it is that just by a tap of the finger on a small contraption (mouse) you open up a whole new world of information. Seriously, what would we do these days with out the internet?
Deep Thought by Kim Silver

Chopper 5

2008-10-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

We just had chopper 5 come to our school. It was cool to see the helicoper up close and the kids went wild, although it was a bit long for the kids (the entire school) to be in an unstructured enviornment. One of the camera men for the news came with the pilot, he took some pictures and told us we would be on the news sometime today - whenever that is?

Anyway you just never know what is going to happen at an elementary school. That's why my job is so cool!

Perfect zoo morning

2008-09-30T07:02:00.000-07:00

This last weekend Aaron left to go shooting at 6:00am. As I was waking up later that morning I decided I needed to take the kids to do something fun. We packed up the car and headed to the zoo. When I pulled into the parking lot there was a man directing traffic at 9:00am (that is when the zoo opens) I though "oh great it is going to be so crowded, I knew I shouldn't have come on a Saturday". So we headed in and saw there was an event for select health care going on, so once again I was thinking it was going to be a short zoo trip. Anyway as we made our way down the zoo path past the elephants, on to see if the carousel was open yet (it wasn't) we decided to walk down to look at other animals while we waited. From the kangaroo's up to the cat house, down around the giraffes we only saw 3 people, literally 3 people. I think it was my favorite zoo trip yet. All the animals were out pacing waiting for their breakfast, so we got to see all of them up close. The boys were so cute playing with each other and interacting with the animals. Hope next time is the same-luckily we have a pass so if it is not we can try another day. Melissa, sorry my trip was so successful and your wasn't. (ha, ha)

Out of breath

2008-09-25T07:08:00.000-07:00

Did you know that as you play the bagpipes you have to use a continuous deep, deep from you gut breath. You can take breaks to do another breath, but it continues on with a deep, deep from your gut breath.
I had my secong bagpipe class - I really like it. I got my practice chanter and the reed is no good. I borrowed one of the teachers reeds and was able to make the correct sound, so now I need to find a specific brand of reed to make my chanter work right.
We practice the scale and some exercises, that seem tricky, but will be fun when I can do them. The teachers were telling us of different competitions that go on, they mentioned the world competition which is in Scotland, in August every year. I told Aaron we are going, it might be in a few years but we are going.
For those of you that do not like the sound of babpipes, well, frankly that makes me a little sad for you. (ha, ha)
Maybe some day I will hold a little concert me on the pipes Aaron on the drum?

Bear Lake

2008-09-22T10:26:00.001-07:00

My friend just sent me these pictures from Bear Lake. We were there at the beginning of August. It was so much fun, I would have liked to have Aaron there to help me manage my kids, but it ended up working out. I went with three of my girlfriends and their kids - it was a mix of ages, and fun for all! Thanks for the invite Shelly.

Happy Birthday Van

2008-09-18T19:09:00.001-07:00

Van wanted a birthday party again this year and I am not cut out to do a party every year. I told him he could choose two friends to take bowling and get ice cream. He chose two neighbor boys Badger and Shane. He loves to play with them and they had a good time bowling (it was probably the longest game I have ever bowled).

Here is a picture of the 3 goofballs. I am so glad he has friends he loves to play with that live so close.

Pipers Piping

2008-09-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

Well, I am not a piper yet but I am on my way. Who knows how far and how serious I am about playing the bagpipes? I did enjoy learning about them last night and I am now on a quest to find what is called a long practice chanter. Even the best of bagpipers use the practice chanter when they practice, maybe I could be semi-pro. Although I have not music reading ability the teacher said pipe players usually do not use sheet music to play, they learn just by watching and practicing. While I am waiting for my quest to end I can practice on a pencil, or pen.

Our teacher played amazing grace for us last night and said we should be able to play it by the end of class, we'll see? It is fun, and now I don't have to say "I am going to learn how to play those someday"

sounds of the scotts

2008-09-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am starting a beginning bagpipe class. I am so excited and don't really know what to expect. I hope I am not the only one in the class, I am still not real clear on how I learn to play. Do I rent bagpipes, or what? I will let you know.
We are getting ready for Van's birthday on Friday and he is so excited to be 5, YIPEE!
I am really enjoying this time of year, it is still a little hotter than I would like, but I don't think it will be long before we are cooled off. Yea.

Has it been that long?

2008-09-12T07:32:00.001-07:00

I decided to view my blog this morning and realized it has been a while since I have blogged. So here goes: I think life gets more crazy the older your kids get, not the more kids you have - I could be very wrong only haveing two, but every single night this week we have had some sort of event that does not allow us to just go home after school. It wears me out a little bit. Van started soccer and loves it so much, this year he has realized you have to work together as a team to get the goal. He is now happy when another teammate makes a goal instead of upset. My favorite thing will always and forever be the thumbs up from the field when he likes how things are going!
I was visiting with my friend Sarah yesterday and while I was trying to get my kids into the car with many times of asking, Sarah kept laughing at my kids short attentions span and I realized that although I am frustrated there is not enough time in life to really get that upset. Who knows maybe I will become stronger by physically carrying my 5 year old to the car.
As hard as this summer was chasing my kids around this summer, I am missing them throughout the day while I am teaching. I enjoy spending time with them each night laughing and playing.
I am going to end now, because I want to see what happens to my left nav when I enter a post in September, will all my August things change? I know it doesn't take much to get me excited.

TKO (total knock out)

2008-08-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

I was informed that Van punched a kid in primary yesterday, and gave him a bloody nose. What does that mean? Aaron and I were still in Las Vegas, so Shannon and Kevin took the boys to their church. In primary there was a kid who was bullying Van and pushed him. So I guess in return he decided to punch him. I am glad he can stand up for himself, I just wish there was a nicer way to do it. Anyway, Shannon talked to him, and I talked to him when I got home - I think he knows it was not the best way to take care of the problem. Pray for him please! (and me cause obviously I am doing something wrong).

EIGHT years

2008-08-23T08:33:00.000-07:00

Aaron and I have been married for eight years. Isn't it amazing how time flies - we thought we would celebrate by taking a weekend road trip to where else but Vegas. We stayed at my dads house in Hurricane and are heading to Vegas today. It is fun being on our own, when you have kids your life seems no longer your own. The boys are having so much fun with Kevin and Shannon this weekend and they have some fun things planned for them, thanks so much guys for helping us out!

We came to Hurricane by way of Delta and stuff, Aaron spent all Friday cleaning the car so it was pretty for our gaunt - now look at it...SICK.