Christmas Traditions

Every Christmas Eve we spend with Troy's side. Grandma Linda, being the decorator that she is, decorates the tables very festive. The menu changes a little from year to year, but some of the regulars are stuffed mushrooms, twice baked potatoes, creamed corn, Amy's apple desert, and Grandma's peppermint icecream lit on fire. We never got to the ice cream this year though. Troy was sick with Strep so we called it a night at 8.

Boston and Cole were little artists.

Troy and his sister Tami enjoying the feast.

Baby Lydia eating her grammies.

The kid table minus Anna who was down in her room asleep.

The adult table minus a few. Mark was sporting his new comb-over doo.

Kaela, Zane, and Jackson being crazy. They're the crazy 8s.

The dinner rolls from my neighbor were a hit. You've got to have good rolls!

The crazy Bench Brothers...Auston and

Jackson.

After dinner we sat around and talked

Amy is a few months pregnant with boy number 4.

Matt and Sherrell looking festive in their Christmas shirts.

Anna finally woke up. She was happy to see Dad, but sad she had missed the dinner with everyone.

Not sure what these two crazy 8s are doing.

Loving my girl...Anna Banana

The Nativity. It's a must and the kids really look forward to it. Auston kept asking when we were going to do " that Jesus show"

Kaela made a good Mary. She struck some kind of deal with Emma so that she could be Mary again (her second year in a row). It could have had something to do with Baby Lydia being Jesus.

Grandma Linda handing out the loot.

All the girls. Sorry Kaela about you looking cross-eyed. It was just the best pic of everyone.

All the boys. Auston wouldn't be Auston if he wasn't pulling a face!

The kids with Grandma and Grandpa.

Sporting the new pjs. The boys' sweats were some skinny leg version and we all got a good laugh watching them try them on. We didn't hesitate returning them and getting the awesome $5 specials from Kmart.

Emma wanted to give us her present Christmas Eve.

Love it! These are the best presents of all. I keep every last one of them and love to pull them out each year and smile as I remember the days.

Some of the girls' favorite gifts this year were furry friends. The Zhu Zhu Pets were especially fun.

Dad liked the Blue Ray.

Having a Zhu Zhu fest.

Christmas day night we always go down to Grandma Barbara's. She spoils the kids with fun treats and movies of their own.

Cheetos are one of Emma's favorite treats.

We love you Mom!

Emma loved her swimming dog from Santa so much that she had to take it to Grandmas.

She even got to take a bath with it later that night. I think her wishes all came true!

After Christmas Fun!

Matt gave Kaela a ginger bread house kit for Christmas. He had seen one at the craft store and knew that she would love it. She did.

Looks good enough to eat! I think Emma has tried a few times too!

Grandma Barbara's Christmas party is always after Christmas. This year we went up to the game lodge at Aspen Grove. The sledding was a hit with the littler kids, while the older kids spent the day on the slopes at Sundance.

Cousin Robert sledding with us until the boys came back from Sundance.

Pure sledding joy!

Wipe out!

Emma loved every minute of it. At least until we got a face-full on the last run of the night.

The skiers/snowboarders came back hungry.

Me and my sis. Love you Carolyn!

We loved loved loved the ping pong tables. That is definitely the next toy we buy for the house. Anna got to where she could play pretty good. Kaela had kind of a rough start, but figured it out in the end.

Matt and Rob. Matt sporting his $5 Kmart specials.

Troy is so cute with Emma. He always takes time to play with her. It was a fun place and definitely somewhere we'll go back to.

Merry Christmas to All and to All a Good Night!

Rudolf is alive and well!

Emma's dance recital with ballet teacher Roxanne. Go ahead, sing the song. We do every time we talk about her.

The grand finale! They danced to Michael Jackson's song "They don't really care about us." It was amazing! Anna had fun with it too!

The boys are so good to sit through all two and half hours of it. The itouch helps a little, I think.

Getting ready to leave for the dance recital. Strike that pose Emma.

Tumbling performance. There's no where like Jolleys. Truley. Kaela's dance recital at the Treehouse. Like the pose Kaela.

Playing the present-dice game at Grandpa and Grandma's house is a highlight.

Sitting on Grandpa Santa's lap.

Once in a while it's nice to take pics of things you don't think to take them of. Thanks Dad. Fun to remember what the tree looked like.

Makin' goodies with the gals! We each had our station.

Even Jordan got in on the dipping.

Emma's First Time on Santa's Lap

The Nutcracker

It was the girls' first time to the Nutcracker. They loved it.

Eating downtown and seeing the sights.

We had to bundle up. It was cold outside!!!

Classic!

This is how it is around our house at Christmas time. I think he was really meant to come to the Scrooge family instead of the Bench family and someone messed up in Heaven--is that possible?

It's a Tradition

The BYU vs. Utah game is, of course, the biggest game of the year. Dad always runs his BYU flag around Draper and we try to take the boys to the game. One of these days we'll start taking the girls. When Anna asked who Cosmo was, we decided it's time to start.

What is it about 4 year olds that makes them so great? Is it their disney sounding voice? Is it their excitement for everything (everything but healthy food)? Or is it their wonderfully trusting, loving, hugging abilities? What ever it is, I wish it could last forever.

Thanksgiving Feast

Digging in.

The spread

Troy, we really have to get you an apron like that!

Grandma B

The teenage table Cece and Emma being silly

Millie and Kaela being even sillier

The football crew

Elena and Matt

Jordan's Eagle Court of Honor

Cute Jord. So proud of him!

This quite possiblly could be the biggest court of honor in all of scout history.

18 scouts received their eagle awards.

Ben Woodruff presented the eagle to us in a whole new light.

Look close to see the eagle behind them.

Getting pinned. Thanks Fred.

Jordan's scout committee.

Bishop Dave Killpack did a great job!

Jord with Aunt Tami

Me and Jord (proud mama)

The cousins. They are always there to supoort us!

Grandpa and Grandmas are awesome!

"The Brothers" as Emma calls them. Check those braces Matt!

Happy Haunting

The costume that never was. Don't you love those costumes that kids come up with that never make it out the door? Matt's mullet version of Stockton was hillarious, but it lost out to Spiderman in the end.

Kaela was a zombie and Anna was, well, I'm sure you can guess. This is the morning of the school parade, so of course costumes will change a few times from now til the end of Halloween night.

Emma finally found a fair replacement for the bunny costume. She was convinced it was a duck costume regardless of how hard we tried to convince her it was a chick. Bok bok or quak quak, which will it be?

Kaela's zombie costume was great until it started unravelling. By the end of the parade she was down to her skin colored skivies, so she called me to bring her some clothes.

Emma walked in the parade with Anna this year. She even lasted the whole time. Way to go Emma.

Anna's loot from her class Halloween party.

Okay, it's Halloween night and the starting line-up is the chick (or duck), Spiderman, a ghost (our first ever), and the football player.

Anna's friend McCall was so funny as an old lady.

Lauren, Bridger, and Emma were making their rounds. Dad said Emma had to be in the lead. Big surprise. We might nick-name her "Emma Incharge".

Sorting the loot. She was first home of course.

Big Emma and Kaela came home for a breather. That's when Kaela switched from a ghost to a princess, all in a matter of seconds. She tried just taking off the ghost costume, but I convinced her that no one would give her candy unless she was in a costume. Thus, Belle replaced Ghost for round two.

Jordan and his buddies even paid us a visit. Funny how costumes evolve as kids get older. Jordan's costume was his orange sweatshirt, grey sweats, and a ski mask. Sam and Jayden were the super hereos.

Emma got tired of sorting her candy and decided to school Caitie and her friends in a little Karate chopping.

We finally made it up to Price's party for some of Teralee's home-made chicken soup and Robyn's lasagna. Pokahantas and Cleopatra were great hosts.

Every Halloween we have our Halloween Hot List (favorite costumes of the year) so here they are:

This kid had a little trouble getting through the halls during the parade.

Greg Matis never ceases to a amaze us.

Bet this guy was tired of carrying that pumkin around all night.

And last, but certainly not least, we ended the weekend with our very own orange snickerdoodles. Kaela and Emma are quite the bakers!

Cabin Fever

Some friends invited us to their cabin over UEA weekend and this is what we did:
Jumped on the beds

played Monopoly Played Uno

Took pictures

Rode ATVs

Ate

Fixed food

Did a puzzle (which we never finished--not even close)

Hung out

Matt got sick

Played Risk

Watch TV (and Conference) and just had a generally good time. No pun intended.

Life's Little Moments

This was one of those nights where you just have to stop and "smell the roses!" It was later in the evening and I hadn't heard Emma and her friend Lauren for a while. When I peaked my head in Emma's room, this is what I found. They were reading stories and eating pop-tarts in bed. It was one of the cutest things I think I've ever seen. Emma loves pop-tarts and she loves reading.

The Marathon

Until a couple of years ago, I never thought I would want to run a marathon. Then, one day, while driving the Alpine Loop to see the fall colors, I thought how fun it would be to run through the mountains while training for a marathon. I wasn't sure just when I would feel ready to do it and I definitely wouldnt have done it this year if it were'nt for my running friend Joanna. She attended the Iron Man Cor de Leine (how ever you spell it) to watch our other friend compete in her first Iron Man this past June and when she came home...she was fired up. I call it the "finish line effect!" You can't help but want to get up and move when you watch all those people cross the finish line of a race. The first time I felt it was while watching Troy compete in the Spudman Triathalon in Burley, Idaho. I remember thinking..."if some of these people can do this, so can I"

And now, after training for 3 months, I (we) did it. On September 19, 2009 we ran the Logan, Top of Utah, Marathon. I call it "Joanna's Marathon" because she was the driving force. She was the reason we all got roped in to doing it, and I'm so glad we did! Thanks Jo!

Here I am, wearing my medal proudly!!!


We were so happy when we saw Troy, Aaron, and Scott at mile 18. It was the best little pick-me-up we could have asked for.

We started together and finished together! I love these girls!

ooooh, chocolate milk never tasted so good!

The legs were a little wobbly, but we felt pretty good--a lot better than we did after our training run of 22 miles.

My man who loves and supports me. He inspires me with his drive and discipline. Love you T-bone!!

BYU vs Oklahoma Game and Victory Run

Dad just couldn't resist taking the flag on a victory run around the neighborhood. Me, Julie, and Joanna stayed home and cheered them on. Rhett was cute to blow bubbles with Emma. He's a softy at heart. Todd Kartchner heard the commotion and came to join in on the fun. Kinnon and Jordan and his buddies finishing the victory run. Even Kaela got in on the action. Troy, Todd, Aaron, Kinnon, and Kaela. It's fun when BYU wins! Anna opted out of the victory run.

Football Pep-Rally

Matt and Chase. Boy, how Matt loves pictures! The waffle making crew Coach Price and Tbone Kaela's second round We've got some fun coaches and parents. The pyramid that never was Jordan came straight from his practice Me, Joanna, Coach Lee's wife, and Tara. Trevor and Emma. Emma, remember to play hard to get! Kaela giving me her best picture smile!

Emma's First Day of School

We love love love Super Start!

She loves putting her tuition check in the mailbox!

Swim Lessons with Becky Thomas

For years I have wanted to get the kids in this swim school with Becky Thomas. I finally got it together enough to get someone signed up (lucky Emma)! Wow! Becky and her method of teaching is amazing. I guess her mom, Jan Thomas, has run a famous swim school in California for years. Becky lives here in Utah and does a round of swim lessons at her home here after she finishes up the summer at her mom's school in CA. We got lucky to get Becky as Emma's teacher. She was amazing and Emma loves her. Thanks Becky!!

Graduation Day.

"I'm in charge!"

Finally Four!!!

For at least the last 8 months Emma has been asking when she is going to be 4. It's hard being an August birthday--I should know! Hers is even later than mine though, August 29. Sorry babe! We sure had a fun time celebrating down at Dear Lizzy's though, didn't we!?

We were minus a few. Jordan was in Alpine jumping bikes into a pond with friends, Kaela was with the Price's at a party and I think Matt was at the same party with Easton. So, the Half-Family party was what we did.

Emma loved her "Dizzy Lizzy" drink.

Anna preparing for her waittressing days.

I love the little speckles of chocolate cupcake on her chin. She's such a beauty!

Fashionista.

Fabulous hat Anna Banana

Dad doing what Dad does best!

Time for presents

She couldn't wait for those mini littlest pet shops.

Grandmas and Grandpas always sweeten the day with some loot! Thanks guys!

Kaela, always giving, gave Emma a book she picked out herself in Jackson Hole and a dollar bill. She's always got to slip in a little cash.

Back in the Saddle, so to speak!

First Day of school went off without a hitch. Kaela loved her purple shirt and matching purple shoes. That girl is Puplicious!!

Anna got hot (well, she already was) in her new Abercrombie sweater that she just "had to have".

Matt's first day of 7th grade left him sleeping on the couch until football practice.

Jordan is all about the naps right now. Think that growing thing is happening.

Girls Trip to Jackson

I hadn't been to Jackson Hole for over 15 years, so when my friend Robyn and her friend (now my friend too) Angie Bleochel invited me to go on their girl trip there, I was thrilled. Angie took her little boy Boston, Robyn took Savi, I took Kaela, and Lacee came stag. We stayed at Angie's parent's cabin up there. It was beautiful and so fun!!

The view from the kitchen window.

Boston. What a doll!

It was Kaela's first time fishing. Thanks Angie for showing her the ropes.

We just couldn't get anything to bite.

Angie helped the girls paint rocks. It was quite the hit and they brought home so many fun and colorful creations.

We enjoyed reading while the girls were painting.

Robyn and Savi being crazy monkeys

Everyone but Boston slept up in the loft. Even though the water was cold, Kaela and Savi had a good time in the river.

Baby Boston had a good time too!

We loved this joint. Their hot turkey sandwiches are scrumptious!

Tea Party

Tea Parties with Aunty Letty are the best. She brings her bags of goodies, scarfs and hats, and we all have a blast.

A tea party just wouldn't be a tea party with out a hat!

Frog Fest!

This week's adventure was the junk/fish stand. Hannah and Kaela started out selling odds and ends from Keala's room. Some where along the way, they got the idea to sell fish and frogs from the pet store. Being the nice mom that I am, I took them to Petco to get some critters. The frogs they wanted ended up being more money than they thought, so Kaela just got one for her self. The 13 cent gold fish would be in at Petco on Friday so they decided to come back for them then. But, until then, we had a new pet to care for. We went home, ready to set up the frogs new abode, and were surprised to find 20 anxious frog owners waiting in line on our driveway. They were sadly dissapointed to learn that we only had one frog and it wasn't for sale.

Some of the future frog owners stuck around to see Kaela's cool spotted fire belly frog.

Friday finally came and the gold fish were a hit. Hannah ended up getting a spotted fire belly frog herself and she and Keala decided their frogs would marry. Matt got a fire belly as well and they all lived happily in the big plastic box out in the garage until Peyton, the neighbor boy, decided to take the frogs for himself. The kids recovered them three times and after the third time they couldn't find Hannah's frog. Distraught. Hannah and the girls made "Lost" signs for the frog who's real name is Max, but to keep his identity confidential, they called him Buddy.

Here's the girls with one of the signs. They put up 5or 6 of them all over the neighborhood.

So funny!!

Draper Days Parade and Carnival

We're too sexy for our shades! The boys went to the carnival that night and this is what they came back with.

It's such a fun tradition...All the kids have their bags for collecting candy. It's really what the parade is all about. This was our first year without Dad and Jordan here. (still at scout camp). Matt had to take the four-wheeler down and find us a spot.

Emma C and Kaela (and Emma's crazy dad in the background)

Um, I think that stroller is a little small for you Riley and Matt!

I think it got a little too loud for Emma once in a while.

Kaela's 8th Birthday

Cute Kaela. She is such a giving girl. We love her sooooooo much! She is one of those Mother Theresa's in the making. She is always doing nice things for people. She is either giving money to a beggar on the street, making a card for her sick primary teacher, wanting to buy someone in the family a nice birthday present (with her own money), or making a new friend out of a total stranger on the beach (child stranger mind you). She is a sweet, generous, loving little girl! Happy Birthday Kaela. We love you!!!

For her birthday meal, she wanted to go to IHOP. Wow, what a treat! She wanted to eat breakfast there and then go back for the kids eat free special after 4. Some how I convinced her that it's really just a breakfast place so we didn't have to go back for round two.

She also wanted the family birthday activity to be a trip to Cowabunga Bay. Dad and Jordan were at scout camp, and Matt had heard it was lame, so just us girls went. The lazy river was fun, but the slides were freezing. For all the money that place charges, you'd think they'd heat the water a little bit. I couldn't even convince Emma to go on a slide. Too bad. We'll have to go to Seven Peaks next time. At least we can say, "been there, done that" when it comes to Cowabunga!

I love this pic of Kaela thanking Matt for his gift. This is exactly what happens everytime the girls try to hug their brothers. "The Brothers" as Emma would put it. Jordan is getting a little better, but Matt, well, his face says it all.

Anna and Kaela still manage to share the love once in a while. Oh I miss how they used to be best friends. That will come back again after the clothes wars years, won't it?!

Darling Jordan picked out some shells and a vase for Kaela's shell collection. She loved it.

The sewing machine....a world of fun awaits her! She is my Craft Queen.

The Oreo Cold Stone cake. Yum yum!

The best part of the cake, right? Emma can't wait for her birthday now!!

Sundays

It's Sunday and Anna and I are just fooling around with the Blog tools. We'll see what happens.

Fourth of July at Springdell

Every year we go down to my Mom's to celebrate the Fourth. We paintball, run the river, play in the pond, have water fights, and eat. We have a big breakfast and then a big dinner. The Moms usually head to the Freedom Festival Craft Fair and the Dads take the kids down the river. We do a lot of hanging out underneath the gorgeous Springdell trees. It's the best!

The boys were not afraid of that ice cold water.

There were some pretty sweet moves on the rope.

Grandma B and Anna

Doing some of that hanging out

Kirk launching his potatoe rocket

Elena and Anna

Even Wagna got in on the water fight

Emma was showing off her letter skills

Jenny took Emma for a ride.

Thanks Jenny!

Getting the balloons ready

Emma liked those frosting coated 4th of July cupcakes.

Anna and Elena made pets of their balloons.

Kaela really enjoyed the water balloon fight!

Fun Times with Friends

Kaeal and Emma

Bree, Anna, and Cambria

Sarah, Anna, and Addison being crazy

Ahievement Days Daddy Daughter Date

The Hoedown was at the Ashton's house. There was square dancing, horseback rides, and a fire. Anna and Kaela had a great time with Dad. They didn't even mind sharing him as a dance partner.

Lake Powell-House Boat Style

Getting ready to leave Antelope Marina

Dad bringing a wave runner out


The greeting squad-they were hungry and ready for us to get there. Thanks for saving the spot guys.

Dad and Kinnon were wiped out from loading the trucks, loading the boat, and finding our spot!

Too tired to smile.

Brock, Rhet, and Jordan fishing off the top of the house boat. Rhet was our designated fisherman.

Emma loved the sand until she discovered the slide.

Jordan and Perry taking out the wave runners

Kaela in the hot tub. The hot tub was quite a hit with the little kids. So much so that the rest of us didn't want to get near it.

Emma and the other girls loved the slide. They played on it for hours.

Matt liked jumping off the houseboat.

Cambria, Anna, Jessa, and McCall

Ever catching Catfish

When the Mayers came out for the day, we couldn't get enough of baby Phillip. Lucky Julie got some good snuggling time.

The wind and rain brought all the girls in off the top of the houseboat. We were wall to wall bodies.

Perry was so tired he didn't seem to care where he slept. Matt didn't seem to care either.

The older boys were all about their bachelor pad upstairs.

Blokus was a favorite game.

Kaela's hair got a little wind blown!

Emma loved to ride on Sandlin's boat. It had this magical affect on her.

Jessa, Anna, and Cambria going out for their first run on Mable

Kaela and Ellie getting in on the Blokus fun

Emma's imagination corner. We just couldn't keep those oreos away from her. Who taught her to twist, turn, and lick the middles out anyway?

Kaela, Bridger, Perry, and Matt looking for lizards

Alex "the Claw" Killpack. Emma couldn't get enough!

Cambria, Anna, and Jessa enjoying the ride to Rainbow Bridge

That's quite the beard there T-bone. We'll just call you Salt N Pepper.

All the gang at Rainbow Bridge

Emma was tired from the walk.

The boys getting some rays on the way home from Rainbow Bridge

Kinnon was a great captain!

We stopped for some cliff diving on the way back to the houseboat. Here's Kaela ready to make a splash.

Jordan helping Emma learn how to cliff jump. She was not afraid.

Jordan made it look so easy!

It's a miracle, Matt actually smiled for a picture. He's pretty much at that "Mom, don't take my picture stage"

It was actually a double rainbow and it was so pretty!

Kaela and Bridger on the tube. Her knees and face got pretty beaten up after 3 hours.

Back at Antelope Marina. Bye Bye Houseboat!

Troy being his usual crazy self

Loading the trucks for home

Kenzie was so cute with the kids. She helped entertain them while we got everything off the boat.

Saying good bye to a super fun week. Matt was a little less than happy. We had just put lotion on his wind dried face and it stung pretty bad. Benson, Rhet and Jordan were so cooperative with my never ending photos. Thanks guys! Your Mom's will be so grateful.

Beautiful Newport

It's family trip time again--crazy that we hadn't been on an airplane together for two years. We really need to get out more. It's always so funny watching fellow travelers responses when they see our family of seven boarding the plane. We were excited to say the least. C A L I F O R N I A here we come!!

Our first destination was Disneyland, but a detour to IHOP for breakfast was a must. The kids thought the food there was the best. IHOP is now one of their favorite restaurants. Funny how we have to leave home to experience it. I guess that's a good thing. Right?!

Disneyland wasn't seeming as unpopulated as we had hoped. We cringed a little as we watched the people pouring in. I was lucky to get this pic without some other friendly tourists in it with them.

Emma and I headed for Fantasyland and ToonTown. She loved the Dumbo ride and wanted to get right back in line after having waited an hour for it. What spirit! Mickey and Minnie were amongst her favorites as well. She kept wanting to go back to them. Can't blame her, their houses are so cool.

Minnie's house we timed just right and only had to wait a few minutes for our grand appointment. Love the shoes, Minnie!

After being split up all day, the fam reunited and went on Soaring over California together. We had to stretch Emma's neck a little to get her in, but we're glad we did. She loved it. It's the best ride.

Swimming at the pool back at the condo was another highlight. The girls just couldn't get enough of it.

Dad and the boys having a little v-ball fun.

Thank heavens for hot tubs. They just never go out of style, do they?!

Enjoying the life.

The Marriott Coastal Villas Resort was beautiful. Marriott knows how to do it right.

Is it Charlie's Angels?

An unforgettable face. Nothing like happy kids on vacation.

We picked up some skim boards at Costco and the boys had a blast with them. They even got pretty good on them, unlike Anna and myself. Anna got some pretty good bruises for giving it her best. Way to go Anna.

Emma and her yellow life jacket. They are both keepers.

There is just nothing like the beach at sunset. Isn't it beautiful?

Troy would take Emma for long walks on the beach. Any where but in the water is where she wanted to be. I can't blame her though, the water temp was a little chilly.

Dad and Kaela rented beach cruisers and took a ride down Newport beach. Anna and I took a turn after them. Cutest houses you've ever seen. Love it!

Chasing the birds is Emma's favorite beach pastime.

It's just not a real beach trip if you don't get buried.

Taking the car on the ferry over to Balboa Island.

Dad the Driver.

Kaela and Emma found a good way to dispose of all the left over chips from Picante Martin's Mexican Restaurant. The birds seemed to like the idea too.

Bubble Gum ice cream on Balboa Island. What a combo. We had fun strolling Maine Street and buying a few trinkets from the stores. Favorite store was Even Sisters--their kids craft table allowed us to stay as long as we needed.

The third day we were off to Sea World with the Sandlins and Hathaways. Our first show was the Shamu show. Way to start with a bang! This is a picture of the boys dry.

And this is a picture of the boys wet, after Shamu got them good!

We all liked the new Atlantis water flume ride.

It was another neck stretcher to get Emma on. She like it so well she wanted to go on the "roller poster" again.

Emma and her buddy Julie Sandlin.

Katie's a favorite amongst the little girls. She had a few fans!

Oh the seal show. That's when I start checking out, but the kids and Troy loved it.

Here's Kinnon "the Navigator" making our game plan.

Shannon was nice to go with Halley and Emma on the spinning cup ride. I had had enough motion fun on the Antarctic Cat ride just before that. Thanks Shannon.

After Sea World we headed to Old Town San Diego for a Mexican feast. These boys were pretty hungry!

After dinner the boys headed back to Newport with Hank and the rest of us went to Sea Coast Village for a little shopping. We happened upon this pretty Cinderella carriage that Troy took the girls on.

Speaking of Cinderella...Rather than wait in the two hour line at Disneyland, Emma and I stood off to the side where the princess come in and out from their shifts. We just happened to catch Cinderella as she was leaving. She said to Emma, "I love your dress. I will tell my friend Aurora that I saw you."

Kaela, the bikini sand babe!

Kaela made Anna a birthday wish in the sand. Cute Kaela is always thinking of others. We walked by a beggar on the street the day before and she said, "Mom, are we going to give him some money?" She was also insistent that we take her shopping so she could get Anna a Bday present. She is always like that.

Jordan giving Anna his present (the star necklace). Sweet brother!

Anna's Bday Bash at the Cheesecake Factory. She loved her orange chicken and Oreo cheesecake.

Back at the pool. Halley and Emma found a way to get their Shirley Temples. They went right up to the bar, sat down, and asked the bar tender for them. Luckily, Shannon noticed and helped them pay for them.

It wouldn't be right to end this entry with out mentioning Crystal Cove. It was one of our favorite places. Great skim boarding, great treasure hunting, great food at the Beach Comber, great everything. We can't wait to go back.

Jordan's Eagle Project--Awesome!

Jordan's Eagle Project was gethering and servicing bikes for a refugee community in Sugar House. With ward donations, Jordan and the Deacon and Teachers Quorums went down to help these refugees. As these pictures protray, it was an amazing experience.

Bob Ward (from the CC 7th ward) is a service missionary down there and he's the one that helped Jordan organize this.

The people were very anxious to claim a bike for their own. It was difficult to watch as there weren't enough bikes for everyone.

Little children in the neighborhood

Jordan explaining what they'd be doing

Some of the boys that came

The grateful recipients

This picture helps portray the excitement the children felt about the prospects of getting a new bike. This little boy in the red shirt was a special kid!

Some more of the boys that came to help

An Eastern European girl and her new bike

McKay Gleason was a great help!

Two best friends waiting for their bike to be fixed.

This darling little thing was very curious.

Jordan and Benson together fixed 3 or 4 bikes.

Troy was in the thick of it.

and loving every minute of it.

Tyson helping a kid with his bike.

Fred and the other leaders made it all possible.

Jordan helping a dad fix his little girls' new bike.

Matt and Benson

Brother Edmun and his wife Kay were the first couple missionary from our ward (the 7th ward) called to serve in this area. The gentleman in the coral colored shirt was very grateful for a bike.

Matt and Jake

You could tell this little girl was very happy about her new bike.

Fred showing Sheff Jr the ropes.

Matt greasing a chain.

Dan Northrup was working hard.

Here's some of the grateful kids.

Tag teaming

It was a little crazy with all the bikes that needed to be fixed.

This lady is the manager of the complex. She commented on how pleased she was to see the service today.

Kay Edmun and Gayla Ward--two of the people that made this all possible.

It started to rain and hail (quite hard) but the people stayed.

They wanted their bikes fixed so badly that they covered the boys so they could continue to work.

We all got pretty wet, but it was worth it!

Brother Northrup was able to work under the shelter of Brother Edmun's umbrella.

Dillon was trying to keep Troy dry.

We took down popsicles to the kids. I think they might have been a bigger hit if the sun had continued to shine.

Troy was working hard.

Perry and Tyson were a good team.

Matt made a friend, Bien Venue, from the Congo in Africa.

Some more of the grateful kids.

This was such an incredible experience. I know that Matt and Perry, who were in my car, chatted about it the whole way home. They were glad to have been able to serve. I think they were probably even a little enlightened as to how good they have it at home.

A special thanks goes out to Bob Ward from the 7th ward. He has been Jordan's friend and mentor for a few years now. He is the one that made this all possible. Thanks Bob!!

The Draper Temple Celebration

Kellen, Perry, and Matt all ready for the big night. Hours and hours of practicing were about to pay off.

Matt and Jenna Davies were partners for the dance. (Big surprise!)

Jordan and Chelsea Katchner were dancing partners.

The Young Men Young Women leaders were so great. They fed all the kids before leaving for the conference center.

My little soldiers. Hopefully this is the only time they have to wear these kind of uniforms.

Corner Canyon 4th ward youth. Draper Temple Celebration. May 29, 2009. Pic taken infront of Fred and Ashley Sheffner's home.

Draper Elementary Anual 5K

The speed demons! Perry and Chase came in 3rd and Matt was right on their heels.

Keala and Anna both put in a pretty good effort. They were both there to run. No socializing for them during the race.

We lost Emma for a minute, but then, luckily, found her. Isn't that a pretty back drop. Oh, how we love these Utah mountains!

The sun was a little bright for Kaela that morning.

Nothing like a run in the sun!

Emma only wanted a popsicle from Julie Sandlin. No one elses would do. Thanks Julie!

Bridger and Emma, loving those popsicles!

Stacy, you finally made it to my blog. Man, we must be really good friends now!

Anna and good friend Maddie (center). We love Maddie!

Kaela and Emma Ware. Sun still too bright Kaela?

Emma's Last Day of 3-Year Old Preschool

Emma has had the cutest preschool teachers ever!! Ms Sue, Ms Darcie, and Ms Natalie you have been awesome. Emma loved every minute of her time with you and the frog princess. Thanks for loving her and teaching her so much! Emma always says, "Ms Sue says that we have to hold our Mom's hand", when we are walking through the parking lot. Thank you Ms Sue.

Memorial Day

We always love to barbeque, but especially on holidays and with friends! Perry, Matt, Chase, and Walker were digging in.

Kaela was waiting for her turn to drive the 4-wheeler--her new found favorite hobby.

Dad was teaching Bridger how to drive.

Emma fell asleep after a couple hours at the pool. Looks like I needed to pull out the sunscreen a little sooner.

Dad and the girls taking a neighborhood tour--Taiwan style!

Matt wanted in on the fun too.

Anna testing her driving skills

Jordan finally came home. Glad I could sneak a pic!

Matt's 6th Grade Lip Sync

The "can't touch this" crew. As tradition would have it, the 6th graders at Draper Elementary put on a fabulous lip sync performance! Easton Price, Kellen Westra, Chandler Salazar, and Matt all shook their booties to the tune of MC Hammer, Can't Touch This. Loved their outthere outfits!!

Princess Day at Super Start Preschool

Emma loved and still loves her new found princess dress. We've even put it in the jammie drawer since she likes it so well. She also really liked the magic wand her teachers helped her make. Sure, a candy filled wand, who wouldn't love it.

Crazy Hair and Hat Day

This week was spirit week for the kids at the elementary. I'm usually pretty good about snapping pics on all the fun days, but some how all but this one escaped me.

Here's Anna's beginning and end.

Kaela's hairdo was some version of a pineapple, so she tells me.

Matt borrowed Jordan's blingy LA hat (the one we hope he never wears for real.)

Dinner with Dad's side--Baby Lydia

Darling baby Lydia at about 1 month old.Isn't it amazing how little babies bring such joy to life!

Amy rescuing Cole from underneath the tramp.

Annna and Lydia

Tami and Matt

Mark showing off his rugby wound

Whitney, Jodi, Anna and Lydia

Dad taking Mark's bike for a spin. Hot stuff!

Kaela and Lydia

Jodi and Boston (the proud big brother)

Emma and Lydia

Mother's Day

Troy barbequed a feast for us.

Reading Kaela's letter to me. I love Mother's Day letters!

Me and Matt

Emma felt bad because she didn't have anything for me (she had already given me the things she made at preschool), so Dad helped her out.

Anna made me the funnest folding card and flower pen. Thanks Anna!

Looks like Jdog got a little help from Dad too! His card was sweet though. He always thanks me for making him breakfast.

Cute Kaela, has the kindest heart!

Tbone is always full of surprises.

Love you, Honey!

Kaela's Playing Soccer Again

Kaela and Emm being silly!

Emma Got Glasses

Cute little Emma has a slight lazy eye. The doctor suggested she wear glasses to help strengthen it.

Sunday Night Treats

Sunday night treats have always been a tradition, but now with the Temple Jubilee preparation, the treats have gotten even better. The kids have been practicing their dance at Sandlin's on Sunday nights and Julie and I have started making treats for them. It's fun to see how much they enjoy it.

Anna and Kaela have loved all the kitchen time. Their little Hawaiian aprons have come in quite handy!

The J-Dog's Birthday

Jordan turned 14 today! He is an amazing kid! We love you Jord.

Grandma B came with her bag of goodies, which the kids always love.

Our "cousin" Cam was over to enjoy the celebration with us.

Emma loves her Grandma B and so do we!

Kaela's present to Jord was a homemade card with a balloon on it and $5 inside.

Anna's made him a card too, and gave him a little more cash for his stash.

Grandma S and Grandpa J came for birthday cake. Their card was stuffed with greens, as usual. The kids' faces always light up when they see it.

On my day of 3 lacrosse games, 2 volleyball games and 1 dance competition (plus Troy was out of town) I forgot to get the birthday candles, so we had to settle for a popsickle stick instead. It was perfect, though, for the boy that has always loved fire! It smelt good too!

The gang singing him the song!! Matt was missing in-action that day. He'd decided that he'd rather go to his room than help with dinner and clean up.

By the way, his shirt says "united" in Greek. It's the Alta lacrosse shirt for 2009.

Emma decided to take the documenting into her own hands. It's nice to have proof that I'm part of the family. It's easy to forget who's behind the camera.

Grandma S loves the little ones. She spent over an hour looking through scrapbooks with the kids. They love that kind of attention. Thanks Grandma S!

Birthday Boy! What a handsome brute!! Nice smile too!

Jordan's Lunchtime Birthday Surprise

Jord wasn't so sure about all those balloons in the cafeteria.

I think he was kind of embarrassed, but was a good sport anyway.

At least the Big Daddy's Garlic Chicken Pizza was good. Thanks for puting up with me Jord.

Neighborhood Fun

Chatting on our porch. Terilee looks as good as ever!

Kinnon planning the YM/YW fundraiser bash

Adam Gleason giving Kaela, myself (still in my running clothes) & Anna a ride around the block

Julie Sandlin looking like the Wyoming girl she is

Miss Draper, oh, I mean Kaela, loving every minute of it

Troy's always hamming it up. He's so fun!

The kids racing Julie Sandlin on the Rhino

Troy thought Kinnon's dirt bike was pretty cool. So did Robyn Price (too bad I didn't get a pic of her on it!)

Anna, Bridger, Emma, Ellie, Griffin, Jessa, Ireland, & Keaton

The Sandlins are always sharing their toys

Matt & Perry and their buds raced around the block. We had to remind them of the speed limit

I took a turn driving the Rhino. Hold on for dear life!

Co-ed Volleyball

Here's Jordan's team (minus Tyson). Nice shirts guys!

Sweet serve Jord. At least I got him smiling!

Matt is playing co-ed volleyball too. Here's him and a few of his buds.

Anna 4th grade Utah Program

Anna's part in the program was "Miss Utah". We altered a dress from a wedding last year for her to wear. Just wish I could have been there to do her hair. Dad did pretty dang good getting there and taking pictures.
He was a super "Mr. Mom" that week!

Looks like she's got the wave down.

Easter With Out Me

Dad was holding down the fort while I was in Hawaii. He did a great job and the kids seemed to have a fun Easter. He was even so kind as to take some pics for me. Here are some of them.

Not sure why Matt wasn't dressed for the occassion.

The girls' new Easter dresses. I was told skirts this year.

"No dresses", Anna said.

Just wish I could have been there to do their hair.

Love this pic! Great backdrop for the pic Dad.