The West Family

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-10T23:55:00.000-05:00

day 10 - 4 day weekends

So it is official November is my new favorite month because the children have so many breaks from school! I love having all the children home with me. Although today didn't go quite how I pictured it I wouldn't have had them anywhere else but here!

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-09T13:51:00.000-05:00

day 9 - day at home

Today was the first day that I can remember since school started that Luke and I have come home after dropping Kai off at school and just laid around. It was WONDERFUL. I am so grateful for my sweet Luke who might be the best snuggler I know. I am so grateful that I have the luxury of taking an afternoon off every once in a while. Today from 1-3 was perfect!

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-08T23:43:00.000-05:00

day 8 - my church calling

I currently serve with the Young Women in our ward. It has been fun and challenging all at the same time. I have been learning so much both from the YW and the amazing leaders that I am serving with. I have also been learning so much about myself. This calling has me constantly evaluating my life and my roles specifically as a wife and mother. Boy, I have some serious work to do!

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-07T23:28:00.000-05:00

day 7 - raked leaves

This weekend Brian raked 16 bags of leaves from our yard. We have both been so busy and I was trying to find time to do it, but he insisted that I not worry about. I am thankful they are all picked up!

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-06T13:21:00.000-05:00

day 6 - daylight savings time

"Falling Backwards" has historically been one of my least favorite days, but this morning I woke up at 4:30 am. I got loads of stuff done before anyone else woke up and I LOVED it!

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-05T23:17:00.000-04:00

day 5 - seneca valley super bowl

Today the Seneca Valley Arrows WON the super bowl! What a special day it has been for Ethan and our whole family. We are so proud of all the hard work that he and the boys put into this season. What another great example of how these awesome moments are direct results of HARD WORK. I think he is starting to get it! It was such an amazing day that I know he will remember for the rest of his life!

CONGRATULATIONS SUPER BOWL CHAMPS!

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-03T23:07:00.000-04:00

day 3 - math facts

Every Thursday after we drop Kai off for Kindergarten Luke and I head into the school and to Olivia's class for math facts. I love being in the school while the children are there. I love running into them in the hall. I love seeing them with their friends. I love getting a chance to visit with their teachers. Math facts allow me to do all those things, and I love every second of it.

Also, Luke is something of a celebrity at the school. It is hilarious how many children know his name and who be belongs to. Today he had to go to the bathroom before we left, and when we walked in to the girls bathroom all the girls came right up to him talking to him and hugging him. I didn't know a single one of those girls but they all knew he was Ethan's baby brother Luke!

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-02T23:03:00.000-04:00

day 2 - pumpkin cheesecake

This morning when I was checking my email I had a sweet invitation from my friend Natalie to come over and enjoy the leftover pumpkin cheesecake from book group. After Luke and I dropped Kai off at school we headed over to Natalie's and spent the rest of the afternoon talking, laughing, and enjoying each others company. These days I feel like all I do is run from one place to another, but today I got to slow down and enjoy every second. What a blessing!

30 days of gratitude

2011-11-01T23:49:00.000-04:00

day 1 - books

Tonight was book group. I didn't attend because I am currently, as in slowly but surely, reading a non book group book. It made me so grateful that I am able to read what I want and when I want. I am grateful that I have the opportunity to get together with women who I adore, and hear their thoughts, ideas, and perspectives on all types of different topics.

Wicked

2011-10-01T23:50:00.002-04:00

This weekend some friends from church got tickets to go see Wicked here in Pittsburgh, and Olivia and I were lucky enough to get to join them! Olivia was so excited but not sure what to expect. One of her greatest joys in life is torturing the boys, so the fact it drove them crazy that she got to go and they didn't just made it that much sweeter to her! Add that to the fact that Emily and Carlie were going too, and she was one happy lady! We didn't get any pictures are the theater, but here are a few before we left!

Olivia's First Softball Game

2011-09-17T22:03:00.001-04:00

Today was the first of many crazy busy Saturday's to come. We went to Ethan's football game and had to leave early to go straight to Olivia's Softball game. My parents are visiting and wanted to make sure to see everyone play. We decided that they would stay at Ethan's football game and I would take Olivia and the boys so she could get there early. Well, I got lost on our way to the game and Brian, Ethan, and my parents ended up beating us there! It was so annoying! HA Anyways, she got over to her team and put in the game and all was well!

This week they played Ambridge. First of all these girls were all 10-11 year olds who had clearly been playing together for years and years. In the Zelie league there were so few girls that signed up for Fall Ball that they had to combine all ages 11 and under into one team. So it was a little bit of a rough go, but I think you learn so much from game situations that you can't learn in practice.

Here is my little #3 (my favorite number!)

This is Olivia's friend Alyssa up to bat!

Ollie walking up to bat for the first time ever! I knew she was nervous!

Getting ready to swing!

What a great day! I can't wait to watch Olivia learn and improve as a player over the season!

Week in the Life - Day 1

2011-09-12T23:56:00.001-04:00

I have decided to post a week of posts that is all about our routine at this point in time. A few weeks ago I was looking through all the children's past school work trying to organize it better, and I found an old schedule that I made for us to follow each day when the children were very young. What a special find it was for me as found myself, if for only a moment, back in the days of having 3 little babies at home. I had forgotten all about making that schedule and everything that was on it. It made me realize that I don't want to forget what we are doing right now, this week. So I decided every couple months I would dedicate a week to Week in the Life posts.

I have been thinking a lot about how every stage we are in, in this life is temporary. The good and the bad. I remember feeling so overwhelmed when Brian went out to sea the second time and left me with a 2 1/2 year old, a 1 1/2 year old, and a 6 week old baby. Now I look at my life, that stage over and way to temporary, and I wish I could remember every second. So here is my attempt to freeze time, so I can read this years from now and be pulled back to this time in my life, if only for a moment.

6:45 - Family Scriptures - This is a new move that we started this year. With sports, activities, and church callings we are never home together in the evenings. After lots of prayer and Brian and I talking it to death we decided that the only time that would work is mornings. It has been so wonderful to start our day together as a family (minus Luke, I am not brave enough to have him awake that early) gathered in the living room for prayer and scriptures. It hasn't been easy, and I know how tired the children are but I know, for now at least, it is what we need to be doing.

7:50 - Ethan and Olivia leave for the bus

After Ethan and Olivia are gone I do dishes and clean the kitchen, do laundry, study my scriptures, and then take a shower. Then Luke, Kai, and I play outside until 11 when we get Kai ready for school

12:30 - Drop Kai off for school and then Luke and I run errands. Today we went to Dicks to get Olivia a new softball mitt, and Kai some new cleats. Then we went to Walmart for a few lunch items and Pizza for dinner.

3:30 - Ethan, Olivia, and Kai get home from school

3:35 - Leave for Piano. Ethan and Olivia eat dinner in the car on the way.

3:55 - Drop Kai and Luke off to Brian in the parking lot at work. He brings them home and they eat dinner and play.

4:15-5:15 - Ethan and Olivia have Piano

After Piano we drive straight to Football where we meet Brian and the boys. Ethan has to change in the car before practice starts.

6-8 - Ethan football

6-7:30 - Meet the Teacher night (Ethan's Teacher) I left everyone at football and went to meet Ethan's teacher. LOVED HER!

8 - Second dinner because everyone is starving

8:30 - Prayer and Bedtime

9:15 - I drag myself exhausted upstairs to bed

*as a side note. Today was Luke's first day potty training. He did GREAT! He only had 2 accidents and we went to Dicks Sporting Goods and Walmart after we dropped Kai off. And he spent 2 hours at football practice where he had to pee in the woods! I am super proud of him, but if he is anything like the other children he is going to give me a run for my money at least 1 day this week!

The Beginning

2011-09-08T22:31:00.000-04:00

This afternoon was Olivia's first EVER softball practice! A few weeks ago I was taking with our friend Keith while we were cleaning the church about signing Kai and Olivia up for Fall Ball since Ethan would be busy again with Football. He mentioned that he was signing his son up for Fall Ball and then his daughter Alyssa chimed in saying that she wanted to play. Olivia already wanted to play but thought it would be fun to play on the same team as her friend. So Brian and I decided to put them in the Zelienople League.

On the way to practice I could tell Olivia was a little nervous and it made me so grateful she would know someone on her team when we got there! She has a great practice and had so much fun! I am so excited to watch and practice with her this season!

Sunday

2011-09-04T15:30:00.000-04:00

Capture the Flag

2011-08-30T19:33:00.000-04:00

Our Summer days are numbered and we are trying to squeeze in as much fun as we possibly can. Today we had our friend Kaden over to play and Zack and Nate come out to play. It ended up in a Capture the Flag game Nerf gun style. They all had a great time and it was so fun watching them running around the yard dodging and rolling.

All the while Luke drank water and played games on my phone while I read my book!

This was a perfect summer day!

Scrimmage vs. Keystone Oaks

2011-08-27T06:57:00.002-04:00

Ethan was #52 in this scrimmage against Keystone Oaks. It was a beautiful day and the boys played a great game again! After these 2 weeks of scrimmages everyone is ready to get going with the regular season and see how the boys do!

Ethan blocking

New Pictures

2011-08-25T19:46:00.000-04:00

This morning I decided to take the children out for an impromptu photo session. Olivia has just turned 7 and I was feeling like everyone needed an updated picture. We went out to the field near where Ethan practices football and we had a great time! I can't believe how big they have each gotten.

I am so in love with these babies!

Jersey Party and Meet & Greet

2011-08-24T18:00:00.000-04:00

Tonight they ended practice early to go meet their Cheerleaders. Basically they boys go to watch the girls do a cheer for them and then they exchange gifts.

Here is a picture of all the 8-9 2011 Seneca Valley Arrows Football Players and Cheerleaders!
After the Cheerleader Meet & Greet they boys headed to the pavilion for their Jersey Party.
Ethan #56 with Coach Rocco

GO ARROWS!

It's Official.... Football Season has Started!

2011-08-20T13:00:00.001-04:00

Today the Arrows had the first scrimmage. It was an "in house" scrimmage meaning that they played other Seneca Valley teams. The boys looked great and neither of the teams even scored on us! Ethan is playing middle linebacker and offensive line. Which means he is playing the whole game, and it is still pretty hot out here! Brian is helping coach again this year and Ethan LOVES that! Here's to a great season for the Seneca Valley Arrows!

It was a fun day and the best part was we were home by noon. So maybe the Football Season isn't official just yet!

Sunday

2011-08-14T21:01:00.000-04:00

Pirate's Game

2011-08-04T23:44:00.001-04:00

Tonight we had tickets to the Pirates Game with the Steinhafel's. The children's first professional Baseball game, and my first in 9 or 10 years. I had been so excited all week, and trying to amp the children up as well. Part of the fun was getting them to earn new Pirates Shirts. It was hard work, and it started looking pretty grim for one. We took a few family shots in our new gear before we left for the game. Brian laughed they they are liked trained monkey's. They go right to the spot! Ha

We had a blast at the game. The children loved all the cheering, singing, and clapping. Luke liked the clapping the very best. He clapped about 85% of the game. It was a very good game, but the Pirates lost in the end. There is nothing like a night at the baseball game.

Gourmet Lunch

2011-08-03T21:40:00.000-04:00

Today for Lunch Ethan asked to make his own "special" sandwich. Who am I do say no to someone wanting to make their own lunch? This is what he came up with. Yes, those are blueberries on a tooth pick. I love it! Ethan is never lacking in the creative department, and this lunch is no exception.

Here is the proud chef with his masterpiece! Oh, I love this kid!

Manic Monday

2011-08-01T16:17:00.003-04:00

Luke is our newest escape artist. Brian came inside from working on his homework yesterday frustrated with us that Luke was outside again. The front door was locked and so was the back door. So he asked us how on Earth he got passed us down to the basement, and opened the garage door which we didn't hear, and then off to the back. Well, I still wasn't feeling well, but I knew I would have heard the garage door open. We rounded Luke back up and when he left the room again I followed him. He was headed for the dinning room. I hid around the corner to see what he was up to. He moved the dinning room chair over to the window to open it up. Then jumped out through the screen he had already pushed out!

Needless to say I happily reported to Brian that we are all not the oblivious to the baby! HA Looks like the windows ALWAYS have to be locked, until he figures that out too!

I hope I start feeling better soon so we can get back to the pool! Only 1 month left of summer. I think I might be sick because I am so sad it is already August! But if I have to be sick at least it is during Shark Week!

Sunday

2011-07-31T16:10:00.003-04:00

Obviously not everyone went to church this week. Yesterday I was super sick all day (still not feeling great, but don't have anyone to do singing time) and today Olivia has a fever. We think she is just getting what I had. So Brian stayed home with her today. I REALLY wanted Luke to stay home with them since I still an not feeling great, but of course he started FREAKING out about wanting to go to church. He got his clothes out, and so I agreed to take him. He was a MANIAC. He normally isn't a maniac. To top it all off he wouldn't go to nursery and I wasn't feeling good enough to deal with it. So he went to Primary with me. More torture. He was actually really good during Senior Primary and sat with Ethan and Alyssa the whole time. It was just a very long 3 hours! HA
So it was a me and the boys church day! When we got home Brian was snuggling Ollie on the couch, which I know she was loving! All in all I am glad Luke came with me and Brian was able to give Olivia 110% of his undivided attention! She deserves it! Also, she wasn't keen on the idea of being in the family picture. When she came outside she said "I knew better then to not take a shower" HA

The good news is that Shark Week starts tonight! Although we try to follow the advice of Tracy Jordan (from 30 Rock) to live EVERY week like it's Shark Week. It is really special when it actually is Shark Week! HA

Back for More

2011-07-28T14:40:00.001-04:00

This morning we got up bright and early again to head to the blueberry patch. This time I had Ethan and Olivia in tow. Kai decided he needed his beauty sleep! We went with the Henrie's and my friend from church Tiffany. It started raining while we were driving up, but that didn't deter us! When we got there it was barely sprinkling. We picked for almost 2 hours when it started POURING buckets. We decided we would just take what we had and get out of there. Because of the rain I only got 1 picture of Ethan. Big shocker, he isn't wearing a shirt! We ended up with 14 1/2 pounds which puts our total pounds of blueberries this year at 27. YUM! We have been busying eating, freezing, and prepping them for jam. Why on Earth and I considering going back just 1 more time?

Our Usual

2011-07-27T14:37:00.000-04:00

A day at the pool! Luke likes to swim, and he likes the sand box. But what Luke spends most of his pool time doing is eating all the snacks. For hours he will sit with me, eat, run and play a little, and then right back to the food.

Is is just me or do we eat WAY more food at the pool then we would if we were at home?

School then Pool

2011-07-26T21:30:00.000-04:00

Luke "helping" Ollie with her math

Lukie and Joshie sharing pool snacks

Before school even got out I made a deal with the children. I promised that I would be ready for the pool to leave the house each day at 11:15, and all they had to do was have their bedrooms "vacuum ready" and have their reading and math done. It is something that I am not willing to budge on and they know I mean business. With the summer more the half over (cry) I am happy to report that we have only missed 1 pool day because those things weren't done. I think those are great odds! It has been a wonderful motivator and something we have all enjoyed! The biggest struggle has been keeping Luke entertained, and not with the TV which just distracts everyone else, while the rest of us are working. The good news is that he usually wakes up between 9:30 and 10:30 which gives us a good chunk of time. Lets just say he is becoming a VERY good colorer! Ha

It's Raining..... It's Pouring

2011-07-25T14:14:00.002-04:00

And the children are playing!

Today was a rainy day, which means no pool for us. Instead the children are outside jumping on the tramp, and when the come in we will watch a "surprise" movie. The only thing that is a surprise about it is that I choose it, so there will be no fights!

On a side note Ethan hasn't worn a shirt since football camp started last week. He cracks me up!

Sunday

2011-07-24T17:47:00.000-04:00

Headbands

2011-07-23T22:23:00.001-04:00

Today I spent all afternoon hiding in the dinning room make these adorable headbands for my sweet little Olivia. In the last few months I have noticed how big Olivia has gotten, how mature she is, and how unready I am to take the giant leap from little girl to big girl. One big thing that I have noticed during this change is that she wants her hair done differently and that she isn't liking the "baby" bows so much. She told me last week that she should really be wearing more headbands, and who am I to argue that! I love you Olive!

Blueberry Picking

2011-07-21T23:53:00.000-04:00

This morning I got up at 4:45 am to get ready to pick blueberries, and then I woke Kai and Olivia up at 5:00 am to get them dressed and on the road by 5:20 am. I was so tired and DID NOT want to get up, but I am so glad that I did! We had a wonderful time with our sweet friends picking buckets and buckets of blueberries. I hope that Olivia and Kai will always remember this morning. I hope they will remember how tired they were this morning when I woke them, how much fun they had while they were there, and how yummy their hard work tastes. Just like everything in life , that is worth anything, it starts with hard work. The hard part always precedes the reward.

We left with 12 1/2 pounds of delicious blueberries, minus the ones already in our bellies! I think it was worth it, and so do the children. In fact we are planning on going again and bringing the rest of the gang! So I guess in the end they decided that the reward as worth the hard work! I am so proud of them!

When we got in the car to head home Olivia insisted her bag stay on her lap. Then she fell asleep, and then Kai fell asleep. But the blueberries were always protected!
Ethan had his last day of football camp today, and that is why he didn't join us. I thought 5:00 am was too early for a boy who had 6 hours of football in the blistering heat in front of him. He wasn't pleased with me, not one little bit! However, when I picked him up and the car said it was 103 degrees, I know I made the right choice! Ethan had a great week at camp and got a great "report card" from his coach! We are super proud of him and excited to watch him play this season!
For dinner we ate blueberry pancakes of course. Olivia and Kai wanted them for breakfast, but I didn't want Ethan to feel more left out so we waited for dinner! They were fantastic!

We have eaten and entire bag of blueberries already today!

HOT & HUMID

2011-07-20T21:06:00.002-04:00

Today had to have been the hottest day of the summer so far! When we left the house at 8:30am to take Ethan to football the humidity was already thick!

We watched little Ethan today while Emily had a doctors appointment and it is always a blast when he is over here. My children go crazy over him, and just love him to pieces. He wanted to go outside from the second he walked in the door. I hurried to do a quick load of laundry to take him outside. They all jumped on the Trampoline until Emily got back! Seriously, could they be any cuter!

After little Ethan left Olivia, Kai, Luke and I headed to the pool. It was so stinking hot the only thing that made since was to be fully emerged in the water. All day as I was burning up at the pool I felt so bad for Ethan to be out in that nasty heat.

This picture is of Ethan before practice started, happy and dry!

This picture is after it was over and the temperature was 95 degrees, soaking wet and still happy!

I sure love this boy!

The Pool & Chipolte

2011-07-19T20:58:00.000-04:00

Today after we dropped Ethan off at football camp the children BEGGED to do to the pool, and I obliged. We only got to play for an hour and a half because we needed to get to Chipolte by 1:00 for Elisha's Birthday Lunch!

I took a few pictures of the children

Then once Olivia and Kai were done eating I gave them my phone to tide them over so I could visit for a few more minutes. Here is a lovely picture of the birthday girl that Kai took!
Of course, what trip to Chipolte would be complete with the self portrait.

The whole group!

Happy Birthday Elisha! Thanks for sharing a little bit of it with me!

Wacky Monday

2011-07-18T22:52:00.000-04:00

I came up stairs to go to bed and found Kai asleep in Lukes crib

Luke asleep in Kai's bed

Then woke up to both of them in my bed!

Also, today was Ethan's first day of football camp. He goes from 9-3 and it is MEGA hot and humid out there. The other children and I arrived a little after 2 to watch him in action, and when we got there he didn't have a shirt on! He put it on a few minutes before I took this picture of his team playing Raider Ball.

Sunday

2011-07-17T16:44:00.000-04:00

Drive-In

2011-07-16T20:22:00.000-04:00

Tonight we headed to the drive in with the Steinhafel's. Both Nate, myself, and all of the children had never been. I absolutely loved it and can't wait to go again! We saw Cars 2 and then the new Pirates movie. Kai and Olivia were asleep before Pirates came on, but Ethan was still going strong as we drove away. I think it was our latest night EVER out with the children. We didn't get home until about 2:30am.

Zoo

2011-07-14T23:23:00.001-04:00

We finally made it to the zoo this summer. The children love being at the zoo and could go once a week and still love it! Luke was a totally blast today at the zoo, and was going crazy over all the animals. It is so fun to watch him grow and learn new things, and enjoy himself like a big boy. Even though I still treat him like a little tiny baby! HA

Tigers are the first animals you see when you walk in to park. There is a little cub in the background and boy has he grown since we went in March.

Luke wasn't sure about the leopard. He kept saying "its eat me, mama!" I told him no Lukie he won't eat you, but he didn't believe me at all!
The cute Steinhafel's.
My favs, the elephants.
Here is the baby who has also grown like crazy since we were there last.

Then the best part, watching the elephants get a bath. Here she is laying down, but she did what they told her to do and would switch from side to side, lift one foot then another, face forward and backward. IT WAS AWESOME! The kids loved it.
They really wanted to watch the baby get a bath, she wasn't as good of a listener as her mom, though! HA

Luke has got a serious tan going on!

My boys next to the crocodile. Olivia was hiding behind me once she realized it was real!

Lazy Pool Days

2011-07-14T21:17:00.002-04:00

Today we spend a solid 6 hours of quality time at the pool! It was awesome! While we were there the Webb's, who just had a baby, showed up. Luke was in love with sweet baby Abrie. He kept kissing her and wanting to hold her. It made me sad to see my baby holding a baby. Most of the time I pretend he is still an itty bitty baby, but today I couldn't deny that he is getting big!

Water Balloon Fight

2011-07-12T23:38:00.003-04:00

Today it was hot, a perfect pool day. However, the children and I have a deal. We will go to the pool after their rooms are "vacuum ready", and all their school work is done. This morning was a slow morning. No one was motivated, and by noon they still weren't ready to go. Since we were planning on going out to dinner tonight I knew that we just had to call off the pool. Of course the children were devastated, and acted like the world was coming to an end. Then miraculously hopped to and finished their work. Still we couldn't go to the pool because we needed 2 hours after we got home from the pool for everyone to shower and get ready for dinner, which would have left us with only about an hour and half of actual pool time.

I did want to reward them for getting all their stuff done so I secretly went down to the garage and started filling up water balloons. When I was almost finished filling them up I told the children to get their swim suits on and wait for me on the bench upstairs. It was so fun to hear them guess all the things I might have planned (it actually gave me a few ideas HA). I did give them one clue, and that was that it was on our "summer to do" list. They still didn't get. I got a picture of them, and told them to meet me at the garage where I showed them all the balloons. They were super excited and carried on about how I was the best mom over. I may or may not have replied "what is that you say, say it a little louder!" But it wasn't long before they were fighting with each other, and I had to shut it down. Being the best mom in the world was too much pressure, anyways! HA

Happy Birthday Emily & Little Ethan!

2011-07-12T22:37:00.000-04:00

Tonight we headed to Lone Star, our favorite Tuesday Night joint, to celebrate 2 birthdays and the last radiation treatment for Ryan. It was so fun to be surrounded by friends and fun!

Miss Emily-11

Ethan-2

Ethan trying to get a cherry. It was HILARIOUS!

Introducing Mr. & Mrs Wright

2011-07-09T14:49:00.001-04:00

Today we were able to attend the wedding of Brian's mom Rene and John. I am so grateful that we were able to be there to support and love them on their special day. It was beautiful and everything was perfect!

The children and I in our seats waiting for the bride and groom to walk down the isle.

The ceremony was wonderful and afterwards we all went to take some family pictures. Rene looked absolutely beautiful.

Ok seriously, Rene has the SMALLEST fingers known to man. That ring is a size 3 or something insanely small like that!
I love this picture of John!

Congratulations! We love you guys!

Last Day at the Lake

2011-07-09T09:55:00.000-04:00

Today we got up bright and early to spend our very last day out on the lake. It was chilly and a little bit windy so instead of Ethan insisting on being first he wanted to be last. I couldn't blame him I wanted to be last too! Since we were all being wimps about the cold water my dad went first.

Then Ethan and I volunteered Brian to go.

Then it was my turn. The water is only cold right when you get in the water, but still I hate it. I was practicing my (baby) jumps, but I kept getting scared and letting go.
It is so frustrating when you know you could have rode it! UGGGH!
This is a picture of my while Brian is giving me a lecture telling me to ride it out! I KNOW, I KNOW!

After that last fall I was done and Ethan was up! He was awesome as he as been all week. Crossing the wakes no problem, and steering where ever he wanted to go.

He even got a little air on this one! WOOOHOOO Go Ethan!

Casa Bonita

2011-07-08T20:28:00.001-04:00

A trip to Denver is NEVER complete without going to Casa Bonita. The children love the divers, gorilla, arcade, and scary tunnel. I also love it, but you don't go for the food, you go for everything else. Eden came with us and the children and I were so happy she did. They are so in love with her, and love to spend every second they can with her.

Luke really loved the waterfall, but when the diver came up to give him a high five he wanted no part of it!

Pictures

2011-07-07T15:52:00.001-04:00

The Lake & Temple

2011-07-05T23:40:00.000-04:00

This morning we headed out to the lake as we always do. Ethan was excited to show off his wakeboarding skills. Olivia and Kai were not really wanting to try. Olivia because she was cold in the water, and Kai because he got launched a few days ago off the tube and was scarred to be in the water at all.

Luke was pouting and saying "my turn yet?"
Ethan was doing such a great job wakeboarding, and was able to go switch foot no problem. He has a really easy time crossing the wake going to the left, but going back across the wake to the right is really hard for him. I am blown away at how well he is doing. He is such an awesome kiddo.

When it was Olivia's turn she didn't want to go but we really encouraged her to. She ended up just crying in the water so we pulled her out. As I tried to talk to her I really wanted her to understand that we do hard things in our family. That by doing hard things we learn and grow. Only through doing hard things do we get to feel that sense of accomplishment and pride in what we do. I don't know if she was really listening, but I have a feeling we will be talking about more about "doing hard things" in the years to come.

After the Lake Brian and I headed to the temple. It was so nice to only drive 2o minutes to get there. We had a wonderful time, and we were asked to be the witness couple. We spend a lot of time talking about our children, and things we need to work/improve on. I love walking out of the temple feeling like I can accomplish anything.
I am going to print this out on canvas for our home. I am so grateful that I was sealed to my family in this beautiful temple. I have been unbelievably blessed.

The Lake

2011-07-01T19:21:00.000-04:00

Originally we planned on arriving at my parents house between 8:30am and 9:00am. Planns changed about 6:00am when we got into an accident and hydroplaned off the road. So we didn't get there until about 1:00pm. Brian and I were both wiped out, but the children just wanted to know when they were going to get out on the boat. So we had a quick lunch and off we went.

It was so nice to be back out on the lake with my little family. I have been working on getting 2009 ready to print out into a book, and I just finished the summer. It was so hard for me to see my children so much older even though it didn't seem that much time had passed. Luke was just a few months old in all the boat pictures, and now he is this big, talking 2 year old. Ethan, Olivia, and Kai all looked SO much older. I wanted to soak in every second of them right now at these ages. I just listened to their little laughs as if they would never change, or go away. I tried to memorize every sound, smell, and sight. Time is flying by and I refuse not be a part of every second with them!

FHE Fun For All

2011-06-27T23:27:00.000-04:00

While my parents and sister were still here we decided to do something the children have been wanting to do since we moved here. Go to Fun For All. Which they cleverly added to the Summer To Do List. We each got tickets allowing us 2 hours of fun. When we got the tickets the girl suggested that we wait until we have 5 minutes left to start the miniature golf course which allowed us to play for much longer! We had a great time.

Our first stop was the go carts. I was taking pictures while driving, which Brian later pointed out was against the rules. OPPPS!

Then we headed over to the bumper boats. Somehow Ethan and Kai ended up in a boat together and Kai jumped in! Well, it was fun while it lasted! And we ALL got SOAKED!

Then Eden took Luke on the rides while Brian and the older children did the rock wall.

Then more go carts and some batting cages.

Then with our time almost up we headed to get our mini golf stuff. The children LOVED the golfing and were hilarious. I was terrible of course, and Brian was super serious. We are so predictable! Ha

Luke was hamming it up like crazy!
It was a great Family Home Evening with the whole fam!

Duquesne Incline

2011-06-26T21:06:00.000-04:00

Since we had family in town we thought we would head downtown to the Duquesne Incline. It is something that is on our Summer Bucket List, and also on all the top 10 things to do in Pittsburgh lists.

My mom and the boys waiting to go up, up, up!

On the incline

It only took a couple minutes to get to the top. Once we got to the top there was a great view of downtown. We took a bunch of pictures then went for a little walk.

The Pirates were playing!

The whole group

Sunday

2011-06-26T18:39:00.000-04:00

Ethan's Baptism

2011-06-25T20:50:00.000-04:00

Today Ethan got baptized. I can't believe it. It was a wonderful day that we shared with my parents, grandma, Eden, and many friends from our ward. Ethan looked so handsome, seemed so calm, and years beyond his age.

Right before he was confirmed a member of the church I looked around at the wonderful men that were surrounding him, and I was overwhelmed with gratitude. How blessed he is to have these wonderful men in his life. I was so grateful that Brian is such a great example of what it is to be a worthy priesthood holder.

Congratulations Ethan! We are so proud of your decision to be baptized. We love you!

Bishop's Interview

2011-06-21T23:21:00.000-04:00

Today at 7:30 Ethan had his baptism interview with Bishop Wahlstrom. We thought it would be a good idea to get him a suit for the baptism, and that would be fun for him to wear it to the interview too. Since there is nothing like procrastination in my book we went to Macy's this morning to pick it out. Luckily they had his size! He couldn't wait to wear it all day long, and he couldn't have looked more handsome. I am so proud of Ethan and the decision he has made to get baptized. He is such a great kid and we love him so very much!

Ethan's Birthday

2011-06-20T20:34:00.000-04:00

Even though his baptism is going to be the BIG celebration this year we wanted to make his birthday special for him. I decided to take the children to BounceU. They have been begging to go since school got out, and as an added bonus it is on our Summer Bucket List.

I loved every second of watching the children running around enjoying everything they were doing. It was "all ages jump" so there were even some teenagers there so Luke stayed pretty close to me.

Luke would go up those stairs and then come right back down.
The children had a great time. My favorite part of the was listening to all the chatter about their favorite part, or when they were coming down the slide and they did a twist so they were backwards, or how they slipped going up the spider web but helped each other. It was awesome!
Ethan had a friend Joe come over to spend the night with as a special treat.

Happy Birthday ETHAN!

Happy Birthday Ethan!

2011-06-20T09:31:00.000-04:00

(4 year old Ethan on Valentines Day 2008)

I was up all night last night thinking about your special birthday. I know I say it all the time but I can't believe you are 8. Lately, you have been running and doing drills with dad in the back yard for the upcoming football season. Whenever I see you running around I can't help but remember when you were about 2 and we lived in Charleston. Every time you went out back you would run to the back fence, and then run 2 laps the length of the fence before you started playing. Dad and I would watch you and laugh at how insanely cute you were. Now you are out there just as cute, but way sweatier!

Time has past and you have a grown, but so many things about you are the same. You have always played with a purpose and an objective. You are incredibly creative and come up with fun things to play with your friends and siblings. You are so kind and come home from school all the time with stories of how you helped others. You love to learn new things. Recently, you have been very interested in US Presidents, and spend a lot of time reading and doing projects about the ones you find interesting. You also love to teach others the new things that you learn, and have "school time" with Kai and Olivia all the time.

We have been talking about your upcoming baptism a lot since the beginning of the year. You are very excited and have been reading your scriptures and praying more and more on your own. We are so proud of you and the awesome person you are becoming. You are such a great example to us and everyone around you. We love you more then anything in the world and feel so blessed to have you in our life. Happy 8th Birthday Ethan!

Father's Day

2011-06-19T22:54:00.001-04:00

Last year Father's Day and Ethan's Birthday were on the same day. I tried to do a little something to show Brian how much we love and appreciate him, but it was totally trumped by all that we had planned for Ethan. So this year I wanted to do a little extra for him. Since yesterday's Amazing Race was his gift from me, I wanted today to be all about food and rest.

For breakfast we made steak and eggs, with bacon, toast, strawberries, and orange juice. I think he was very surprised!

Luke in bed with Brian to mooch all his food!

My favorite 5 people!

Before we headed off to church!

Brian had a nap after church and for dinner I made kabobs with one of his favorite salads and watermelon. We all told Brian what we loved most about him, and then Nate, Emily, and Ethan came over for dessert, brownies and ice cream! I think Brian really enjoyed his day!

What we love about Brian:

Ethan: He helps us with our homework and stuff like that.

Kai: The best thing about my did is that he is my dad. He helps do my room and he is going to put my basketball hoop back up.

Olivia: He helps me with my basketball camp. He helps me shoot and dribble. He helps me with my room. He helps me make things. He helps me draw. He helps me with my homework. He is my friend. He reminds me to brush my teeth. He tells me to go to bed so when I first get in my bed so I won't be tired in the morning.

Danae: I love that Brian is so helpful around the house and with the children. I love that he is willing to do whatever crazy project or idea I have. I am so grateful for how hard he works and his great example to me and the children. I am so grateful that he is a worthy Priesthood holder. I love the way he teaches the children what is right and wrong with love and compassion. I love that he wants to spend all his free time with his family and loves us so much!

Happy Father's Day

Basketball Camp

2011-06-15T22:23:00.004-04:00

Yesterday Olivia started her long awaited Basketball Camp. I signed her up about 6 weeks ago and she has been practicing and talking about it ever since. Olivia has been dribbling up and down the drive way, using both her right AND left hand. My dad instructed her to use her left hand to eat, open doors, comb her hair, and any other things like that. Olivia, the rule follower, has followed these directions strictly. It has really paid off because she is one of the best dribblers there.

Lay-ups

Dribbing

Passing

The last thing they did was a relay race. Olivia's team won both times. She was so proud. We were so proud. It was so fun to watch Olivia play. She is very shy, and I hope that sports will help her come out of her shell a little bit. We love this sweet girl, and can't wait to see her play again tomorrow!

Sunday

2011-06-11T20:37:00.001-04:00

Our pre picture, picture. Brian trying to get something out of Kai's hair. What he was trying to get, we still don't know for sure, but somehow it survived through Kai's 30 minute shower.

Last Day of School

2011-06-10T08:30:00.006-04:00

The long awaited last day of school finally arrived. Personally, I think that school after Memorial Day is just cruel, but the truth is I have been over this school year since March. The children don't get home until 4pm and they go to bed at 7pm which gives me only 3 short hours with them each day. That is just not enough!

So here they are looking as adorable as ever! Brian was home today for the send off and told them they would never again be 2nd and 1st graders so enjoy it. I had to blink away the tears.

Off to the bus they go!

Here is Ethan on the first day and on the last day. His shoes sure took a beating this year, if those are even the same shoes. I can't tell or remember when/if he got new ones! HA
Olivia has clearly had some big changes from the first day to the last. She has switched her pose from right to left, wore her hair down (only the second time this year), and bravely wore flip flop even though they have been forbidden and she hasn't dared wear them all year.

The wild bunch on the first day.....

and on the last!

Adios 2nd and 1st grade!

Reunited And It Feels So Good

2011-06-01T23:51:00.005-04:00

The pool is finally open and we are enjoying every second we can there. I dream of summer days poolside and those days are HERE! It would be perfect if Ethan and Olivia were out of school and could join us!

Luke doing his favorite thing at the pool, eating.

Take 1

Take 2

Summer Days are the best!

Sunday

2011-05-29T16:12:00.000-04:00

I sewed the ties that Kai and Luke are wearing. I am pretty proud of them. So after church I took a few extra picture of Luke with his adorable tie on!

I love this little boy!

Olivia's First Haircut

2011-05-28T21:24:00.000-04:00

It seems like it has been forever since Olivia had a first, but today she had her first real haircut! He has has gotten so long but the ends really need a trim. I reassured her that it would still be long.

These are her "before" pictures outside the Salon. She NEVER looks right at the camera so we had to take a few!

The back

She tried not to smile the whole time she was getting her hair washed!

Almost time to start cutting.

And now there is no turning back. Because he hair is curly it doesn't seem that long, but looking at it like that shows it really is!

The "after" shots

I LOVE it. Now we can do so much more with it, and even leave it down.

Red Velvet Cupcakes

2011-05-27T07:55:00.005-04:00

2 1/2 cups all purpose flour

2 cups sugar
1 Tablespoon cocoa
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups oil
1 cup buttermilk
1 Tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 oz. red food coloring

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.Lightly stir eggs in a medium bowl with a wire whisk. Add remaining liquid ingredients and stir together with whisk until blended. Set aside. Place all the dry ingredients in your mixing bowl and stir together really good with another wire whisk. Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix on medium-high for about a minute or until completely combined.Bake for about 30 minutes.After about ten minutes, remove from pans and cool completely on a wire rack. Then make the frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla
6 cups confectioners’ sugar. Beat cream cheese and butter on high until creamy. Add vanilla. Then, add the sugar in batches. Scrape down the sides in between each addition. And frost away.

Red Velvet Cupcakes are my families favorite and we make them for just about everything we celebrate.

Kai's Pirate Party

Dr. Seuss's Birthday

Olivia's 1st Grade Choir Concert

2011-05-23T23:48:00.006-04:00

Today finally arrived for my sweet Olivia. She has been singing around the house, in the bathroom mirror, and in her bed before she goes to sleep for at least two weeks now. She couldn't wait for her very first Choir Concert.

So here she is on her BIG day!

Striking a pose and looking adorable as always.

The proud parents.

Am I the only one wondering when she got this big and where my little baby girl went?!?!?

Brotherly love.

We arrived early (I may or may not be an obnoxious mom who wants a good seat) and it must have felt like church two days in a row to Luke. But once he saw Olivia on stage it was well worth the wait! What could be better then a proud wave from this baby?
It was a wonderful performance. They sang 15 songs, and I could have watched her up there for 15 more. Although, I was holding the video camera, and I am not as confident that my arms would have lasted 15 more. She did fantastic. Afterward she asked me if I noticed someone and then described them. I had to be honest and say that I didn't notice a single other kid up there except my sweet little Ollie. She had my undivided attention. I couldn't take my eyes off of her. I felt like if I did by the end of the performance she would be 12. That is how fast I feel like she is growing.
Then I asked for something small, something easy, something I knew would be perfect. A picture of Olivia with the boys, and this is the best I got. HA
Brian got flowers for Olivia on the way home from work. She loved them.
Olivia and her super sweet teacher Mrs. Cadman who will retire at the end of this year after 35 years of teaching. I think that is pretty awesome!

Great job Olivia! I love your guts!

Happy/Crazy Sunday

2011-05-22T22:12:00.004-04:00

Lukie pulled the fire alarm at church today. When I was only about one foot away from him. Embarrassing!

BBQ Chicken Pizza

2011-05-20T11:26:00.006-04:00

Every Friday night in the West's house is Pizza night. Brian has become the master of pizza dough and yummy toppings. Whenever anyone is over for our pizza night they too fall in love with Brian's recipes. BBQ is our family fav!

Dough ingredients
2 chicken breast, thawed and diced.
1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese.
5 strips of bacon or 1/4 cup of ham. ( Bacon is better, but the ham will do if you're short on fat back)
1/2 cup of thinly sliced red onion (The more the better, whomever you are making this for will love you so much they won't care about your onion breath)
1/2 cup of tomato sauce
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 shredded Parmesan cheese.

Pizza Dough

1 package active dry yeast

1 cup warm water (110 degrees F/ 45 degrees C)

2 cups bread flour

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons white sugar

1. In a small bowl, dissolved yeast in warm water. Let stand until cream, about 10 minutes.

2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups bread flour, olive oil, salt, white sugar, and the yeast mixture; stir well to combine. Beat well until stiff dough has formed. Cover and rise until doubled in volume, and about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

3. Turn dough out onto a well floured surface. Form dough into a round and roll out into a pizza crust shape. Cover with your favorite sauce and toppings and bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Chicken

Before you prep your dough, thaw and marinate in your favorite BBQ sauce. Sweet Baby Ray's is the best in my book and you can get a big ol' double pack a Costco.
While the pizza is in the oven cook the chicken on the stove in a pan on medium-high heat. Ensure you add all of the BBQ sauce to the pan as well as some extra for good measure. You want enough sauce so that it lightly caramelizes on the chicken. Once the chicken is almost fully cooked (8-10 minutes) turn down the heat to medium-low so that you don't burn your nice gooey sauce covered chicken bits.

BBQ Pizza Sauce

1/2 cup of tomato sauce
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 shredded Parmesan cheese.

Prep dough according to recipe.

When proofing dough add one good pinch of sugar to the warm water for each yeast packet ( one per batch)
Add the rest of the sugar to the yeast mixture just before adding it to the flour mixture.
Mix flour and salt prior to adding the oil, then add the yeas mixture. I prefer to do this with the wisp attachment.
If using a Kitchen Aid or other similar mixer: Mix, flour, oil, and yeast mixture, and then add flour in 1/4 cup increments until the dough starts to pull away from the side of the bowl, then switch to the dough hook and kneed for about 5 minutes. The longer you kneed the better the rise you will get.
Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for atleast 15 minutes. The dough will be better if you let it rise for more like an hour, but we normally are all starving and want pizza NOW, so a short rise will do just fine.
While dough rises prepare your sauce and toppings.
Once risen, dump dough out on a lightly floured surface. I recommend using a large cutting board, like the bamboo one we have. This keeps the flour contained to the board and off of your counter and subsequently your floor.
Loosly form into a mount. DO NOT KNEED IT, if you do it will be difficult to stretch out to a full sized pizza.
Lightly flour the top and make sure your hands are nice and floury.
Slide your hands under the dough, palms down so the dough is resting on the back of your hands, now lift the dough up and form the pizza. As you lift the dough up at an angle it will start to sag down on the side, this is where you turn it to let the other side stretch. Nothing fancy just a couple of turns to stretch out the dough, no tossing necessary. (unless you're feeling froggy). then place the dough back on the floured surface and finish forming the pizza by stretching out the uneven sides.
Transfer the dough to your stone or baking sheet. If using a stone I recommend preheating it so that it is not cold when you put the pizza on it. It does not have to be super hot, just not cold.
Top with BBQ pizza sauce, 3/4 cup of cheese, and onion. (Add ham now if using).
Place in oven on bottom rack; 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Pull pizza out, top with chicken, bacon, and last 1/4 cup of cheese. Brush crust with olive oil so the crust will brown.
Place back in oven on middle rack, remove when newly added cheese is melted and crust is golden brown.
Allow to cool for 2-3 minutes, cut, and pig out.

Sharing this recipe at Kelly's Korner today

You Know What They Say.....

2011-05-19T08:37:00.001-04:00

..... big brother's who sit on their little brothers lap,

Stay Together!

Drop Him

2011-05-18T08:33:00.007-04:00

Last night at dinner, during best and worst, Olivia shared that her worst of the day was a boy in her class pushing her. I can only described Brian’s anger with the amount of time steam flew up from his ears, 63.5 seconds. Then he eventually asked her what she did. Like a lady she asked him to stop, then she told the teacher.

This is where Brian’s expertise came in. He told her that if it happened again to (and I quote) “drop him.”

I just shook my head knowing there wasn’t anything I could say at this point. He was already moving this discussion from the dinner table to the family room. I suspect so he would have more space to demonstrate how he wanted her to “drop him.” Understandably the kitchen table got in the way of that.

Here is what transpired:

Why Would I? means Yes Ma'am in Spanish

2011-05-17T09:24:00.002-04:00

Asking Kai to clean or pick anything up is like asking him to stab Olivia in her sleep. At least that is what you'd think he’d been asked to do by his over the top reaction, coupled with sobs of

“Don’t you know I am only 5”

“I am just a kid”

“Kids are supposed to have fun. Why don’t you want your kids to have fun?”

Oh the theatrics.

On one particularly blissful day sprinkled with a little Kai drama I asked him to do a Laundry Round Up. His immediate response,

“WHY WOULD I?”

I followed, ready to end his life or at least his day of fun. To which he quickly replied,

“Why would I? means Yes Ma’am in Spanish.”

All In A LONG Days Work

2011-05-16T08:28:00.007-04:00

Saturday mornings are the only day throughout the week that I have to sleep in, and yet it is the only day of the week that I get up BEFORE my 6:30am alarm. This type of frustration can only be summed up by singing Alanis Morissette's "Isn't It Ironic" ......... don't ya think!

In some other crazy twist of fate I ended up being the first person outside working on the yard. Before I got started I took some before pictures. When ever I take before pictures I always have high hopes for the project. I don't have many before pictures. Maybe I am not quite the optimist I consider myself to be.

7am Before:

5pm After:

All that with only 1 down poor of rain right at lunch time! Miracle, no just an answer to my prayers! Ha

We couldn't be happier with how it turned it out, and the mulch has now officially survived 2 big rains and 3 little sprinkles. That type of excitement can only be expressed through song, "Hey Ya!"

Linked up to DIY by Design

Savvy Southern Style

Marburger Dairy Farm

2011-05-12T08:38:00.000-04:00

On Saturday Kai decided to cut his own hair, AGAIN. I tried for 3 days to comb it over because the truth is I LOVE his hair long. Well, it wasn't working and so yesterday morning Brian went into work a little late to cut it. Then Luke said "Baby Next" and climbed into the chair, and after that Brian cut his own hair. They all looked so handsome!

A little later on we headed off to the Marburger Dairy Farm only 15 minutes from our house. We had some wardrobe issues because if Kai is wearing rain boots so is Luke, and we don't have any Luke's size.
This little cow was just his size. However, I think what really won him over was that it wasn't real!
The Mama and her baby.
Kai's pose with the cows.
Then after a while looking at just that mama and her baby I found Luke like this. How long could I ask him to look at the same cow, who wasn't even mooooing.
They were great little listeners and Kai learned so much!
Then all the cows starting coming into the barn, and this is about the time Luke's enthusiasm for cows picked back up.
Although he still wasn't interested in touching them.
Then we headed to the milking house. That big cylinder is where all the pumped milk goes. They milk the cows 2 times a day every day (even Christmas, Birthdays, and Weddings) and each time they get about 5 gallons from each cow. Pretty impressive. Right now she said they milk about 129 cows. Feel free to do the math!
More great listening, I think I know of a little boy who is ready for Kindergarten!
The actual milking room, which for me resembles more of a torture chamber.
Again the pose. We weren't able to touch anything in this room, so I am sure you can imagine all the fun that Luke and I had while we were in there.
Then Ms. Becky asked the children if they remembered what the "thing" between the cows back legs was, and Kai proudly answered "the milking bags." Classy!
We then got to see the babies which was more Luke's cup of tea. He even tried to feed one.

A nice normal smiling picture of Kai, it can't be! HA
Ahhh there we go, that is much more like it boys!
Then the best part! The milk! Kai and I got strawberry and Lukie got Chocolate! YUMMO!
Top that delicious milk off with a mini swing set and we are all in business!
I loved this! Kai being a gentleman and pushing his little friend on the swing. She couldn't even get on at first and so he lifted her up! He can be a little wild and crazy some (ok most) of the time, but he is the sweetest little guy in the planet!
I give this field trip TWO Thumbs WAY UP! If you live in Western PA you have got to go and check it out!

Right or Wrong

2011-05-10T08:27:00.003-04:00

Sunday night after the children were sleep I told Brian that I just didn't think we were doing a good enough job raising the children and teaching them the gospel of Jesus Christ. I think he felt blind sighted. We discussed what I thought we weren't doing, and then Brian started listing all the things we do, do. I didn't want to think about or acknowledge those things. I just wanted to focus on the areas that I feel are lacking.

After a long discussion we agreed on some simple things to do surrounding our main focus which is for all of us to be a little more reverent, especially at home.

In hind sight I think I was suffering from some sort of mothers-are-awesome Mother's Day depression, where I wasn't feeling quite so awesome. There are so many things I want to do better as a mother, and since the children are getting so big so fast sometimes I feel like I am running out of time.

Then Monday morning I came up stairs to see what was taking Ethan, and this is how I found him. In his bean bag reading his scriptures.

Maybe I was wrong. Maybe we are on the right track, but there is always room for improvement.

30 before 30

2011-05-09T09:54:00.000-04:00

A little over six months ago I started a list of 30 things I want to do/go before I turn 30. Making the list was almost as hard as some of the items on it! At one point I seriously considered adding "just finish this list" to the goal. I even accomplished a few things on the list while still working on it, and no I am not above doing something hard and then adding it. Not only adding it but putting in the middle to make it look like I had it on there all along. Half Marathon anyone?

Well, this last weekend I decided once and for all to finish it up. The hardest thing was trying to challenge myself but still be realistic as to what can be done with the time and money that is available. I ended up scratching a trip to Russia, (my love for all things Romanov's knows no bounds) but will happily add it as an honorary 31 if it happens. So basically, heres hoping!

Without further ado here it is:

1) Learn to can

2) Learn to sew

3) Go to the Kentucky Derby

4) Attend a UK basketball game

5) Ride in a hot air balloon

6) White Water Rafting

7) Go on a cruise

8) Run a Half Marathon

9) Helicopter Ride over a big city

10) Host Thanksgiving dinner and not have Brian cook everything

11) Get in ~~great~~ decent shape, who am I kidding I love the recess peanut better cups

12) Attend the Temple Regularly

13) Plant, Have and Keep a garden

14) Learn to play the piano much, much better

15) See Loretta Lynn’s House and try to get the tour from her brother

16) Go to Gettysburg

17) Go on dates with Brian every Friday

18) Have Blog Books printed (2003-current)

19) Do the splits

20) Have no credit card debt and be more focused on Savings

21) Visit Maine in the summer

22) See the tree in Rockefeller Plaza

23) Visit somewhere outside of the US

24) Get a more substantial food storage

25) Help the children gain a testimony of the gospel

26) Read More

27) Take the children back to Charleston

28) Be more organized

29) Develop Christ-like attributes

30) Read books to the children at night in their rooms in their beds

I do realized that #26 Read More is a little vague, but I didn't like the pressure of having to read certain books. I mean what if I started them and hated them but had to keep reading them because the 30 before 30 list depended on it.

Also #30 seems very random but when I pictured myself as a mom (before I became a mom) I saw two things, summers poolside and reading to the children in bed. I have mastered summers by the pool, but bed time reading not so much. Time to up my game since those two things are obviously going to determine what type of adults my children turn out to be! HA

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T19:33:00.003-04:00

Today was perfect because of these adorable cuties. Scavenger hunt to presents, on time to church, lots of snuggles and kisses, and a nap! PERFECTION!

I am a seriously lucky lady!

Kentucky Derby 2011

2011-05-07T21:16:00.000-04:00

Today we all made our guesses and watched to see if our horse would win. And then out of no where Ethan's horse, Animal Kingdom, came flying to the front of the pack and won! IT WAS AWESOME. If only we were betting people who put down $100 on Animal Kingdom we would have won $2600. IF ONLY!

Punta Cana

2011-05-06T07:26:00.002-04:00

At the beginning of April we went to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. We stayed at the most beautiful resort The Reserves at Paradisus Palma Real and it was one of the most wonderful weeks ever!

We searched for weeks to find the perfect location and all inclusive hotel. Millions of review were read and the decision of where to go became daunting and honestly was loosing its fun. We finally chose The Reserves and it was the best choice. I was the most grateful that the pictures matched what was there. Nothing is more frustrating then getting somewhere and it looking nothing like the pictures! HA

The resort was beautiful and at times it felt like we were the only people there.

The rooms were amazing

They had different entertainment each night. We didn't go every night but on the nights we did it was a blast. My favorite was their 80's dance night!

The beach had a roped off area where only people staying at The Reserve could go. Also, The Reserve offered free scuba diving with the lesson included.

We only did one excursion while we were there(I just wanted to bum around the whole time) and it was Zip Lining. It was totally amazing and I want to do it again.

The food was wonderful and we went to a different restaurant each night. The room service was included which never happens. It was perfect and I would highly recommend it to any looking for a tropical getaway.

Punta Cana - Part 1

The Drive

2011-05-01T21:45:00.001-04:00

Ethan read 2 whole chapter books.

Kai slept and snuggled his pillow pet. Also he wanted to eat the whole drive.

Luke stretched.

Luke read.

Ollie pulled on a tooth that was barely loose.

Then Ethan pulled

and finally she got it out!

Ollie looks beautiful with her toothless grin!

Brian was particularly in love with her new look.

When we got home our front door was decorated by our totally awesome friends the Henrie's! Thanks guys, you are the best!

It is nice to be home!

S'MORES

2011-04-30T21:03:00.000-04:00

After the race we came back to the house, ate, got cleaned up, and took naps in no particular order. I had basically put my self on bed rest at this point because moving was just too painful. Everyone gathered around me in the room where we visited for a while. It felt way too much like a hospital room! HA

After a delicious dinner that Brian made for us all Nate and Brian started up the fire for some S'more's. They were a crowd pleaser as always and were the perfect ending to a fun trip!

Then I saw my Ethan reading to sweet baby Ethan! It was the cutest thing I have ever seen!

Kentucky Derby miniMarathon

2011-04-30T12:55:00.001-04:00

The day I had been dreading since mid January has now come and gone. It is was the day I had agreed to run a half marathon with my friend Jenn.

Jenn, Nate, and I got up early and headed out to the race. Apparently my prayers to get lost and miss it were overlooked as some hilarious joke. I was very nervous the night before and the morning of, but once we got there my nerves were gone. I just wanted to get this over with! I knew I would be able to run it. I had ran 10 miles two weeks before so what is 3.1 more. I didn't train as hard as I could have and miss a whole 3 weeks of training before I ran the 10 miles, then I only ran once more after the 10. Before the race started I wished I had prepared better, but it was too late. I had to forget about all that and just do my best! I felt as long as no "speed walkers" past me I would survive!

Good News I did survive and I met my two goals for the race: finish with walking, and not throwing up (although there were a few times I thought I might).

Here is Nate's big finish in 1 hour 48 minutes. He was going for speed, he was going for distance! Lets all just pretend that the lady in front of him in the pink sports bra is me. Yeah, that is much better! HA

Ok, fine! The real me is in a little more than a sports bra. I finished in 2 hours and 15 minutes. For a little more fun lets pretend like that grandpa in front of me is 16! I am proud of my time and the fact that I finished, but honestly I could barely move after this.

Here comes Jenn! Brian had the lens cap on when she came running by so this picture is more like a Where's (Jenn) Waldo. She did great even though it was hard for her to train with school, being a single parent, and dealing with sick kids off and on for the last 3 weeks leading up to the race!

Me and a few of the cuties!

Here is our runners picture! YAY for us!

Here is our runners in pain picture. Although I am pretty sure I am the only one in pain! HA

I DID IT!

Louisville Day 1

2011-04-29T21:25:00.000-04:00

We left the house at the crack of dawn this morning so we could spend as much time in Louisville as possible. The drive was great, the children were champs, and we made it in just 6 hours.

Probably because of Brian's game face, just a wild guess!

We decided to rent a house instead of staying in a hotel, mostly because by the time we went to book a hotel everything within a 30 miles radius was completely booked. The house is totally cute and has given us plenty of room to spread out.

After we unpacked all of our cars we decided to venture out for lunch. We were looking for chick-fil-a but after almost an hour we gave up and settled for Wendy's. Those darn GPS's will take you anywhere! HA

After a nutritious lunch of burgers and frosty's we were back out on the open road in search of the expo where we needed to get our packet's for the race. Once again the GPS took us FAR, FAR away from the expo. After a quick round of musical cars I took the lead and got us there safe and sound! And thank goodness we got there when we did because none other then Spider-Man himself made an appearance!

It is early to bed because tomorrow is the big day!

Ethan's New Look

2011-04-26T09:07:00.002-04:00

Today started out business as usual. Waking up the children, school lunches, hair, reading logs, and teeth brushing. It was during the bushing of their teeth that I noticed something odd about Ethan.

Now normally I do not monitor their teeth brushing, but they were being very loud and I didn't want them to wake up Luke.

I was looking at Ethan through the mirror and I couldn't quite put my finger on what was different. Then I turned his face to mine and BAM there it was, he cut his eyebrows. I tried not to laugh or freak out, but just couldn't understand why he would do that. I tried to explain to him that eyebrows don't grow like hair and it would be FOREVER until the grew back.

He couldn't ever give me an explanation as to the thought process behind this genius idea, and I am assuming it is because there wasn't one.

I guess Ethan will sporting this new look, new look minus his eyebrows for a while! Good thing he is a cutie!

Children's Museum

2011-04-22T20:43:00.000-04:00

One of my biggest complaints about where we live is the lack of school breaks. There is no Fall Break, Christmas Break isn't a full two weeks, and Spring Break is a measly 3 days. Since our mini Spring Break was upon us we decided we might as well go out and have a little fun, so we headed to the Children's Museum.

I forgot my camera and only have phone pictures!

We started out in the arts & crafts room and then ventured out to see what else there was. When the children spotted this giant chicken coop they were in heaven. They played and played until Brian couldn't take it anymore and insisted we see what else they museum had to offer.

We played and played and had a great afternoon. We didn't even get to see half of all the the children's museum had so I guess we will just have to go back!

Organized?

2011-04-22T10:58:00.004-04:00

I wouldn't consider myself to be among the super organized, but I sure wish I was. In order to try and be a part of that group I have to try twice as hard since it doesn't come naturally. Here are some things that make my life easier.

Laundry System – It has only taken me 8 years come up with a laundry system that works without me feeling like I was drowning in it. I do at least 1 load a day (it is sometimes more when I am doing sheets.) I hang everything up except underwear, pajamas, pants/jeans/shorts. Everything else I fold and put directly into each persons laundry basket, everyone has there own. Daily I put away Luke’s, Brian’s, and my own laundry; the older children put their own away, and then put their baskets away. Now, laundry hardly every gets out of control.

Tip: I safety pin each pair of socks together, a genius idea stolen from some friends we knew when we lived in Washington. The safety pin stays on the inside of the right sock while you wear it, and when you take them off you just pin them together again. They get washed together, and never get headaches from searching for socks to pair up; if you have one then you have two. BIGGEST TIME SAVER!

Toy Baskets – In the pantry I have baskets for each of the children. Throughout the day as I find things that belong in their rooms I put it in their baskets. Each day they are to put their stuff away. This has eliminated toys all over my stairs that they just walk past anyways.

Label, Label, Label – Label everything drawers, closets, shelves, toys.

. Throw Everything Away – It seems simple but this is the hardest one for me. The less you have the less you have to clean.

Bathrooms – Under each bathroom sink I have a basket with Windex, paper towels, disinfectant wipes, and toilet bowl cleaner. Each day when I wipe down the bathrooms everything I need is right there.

I can’t wait to get more idea’s over at Kelly’s Korner!

Shopping with the Boy's Take Two

2011-04-21T09:05:00.004-04:00

After the disaster that I now loving refer to as our-trip-to-the-outlets-on-Monday, I wisely decided to take Tuesday off from any shopping. However, as Wednesday rolled around I knew we would have to try again because I needed to go to Pottery Barn to quadruple check the color of our new couch. And just like I thought the Stone has not changed, and is still Stone. Just thought I would save you a trip incase you were also having the same issues!

stone

Now this wasn't just a trip to check colors. I am also in the market for some new rugs. Of course they didn't have any samples or swatches of the rugs I really wanted, but did have one that I was just curious about. I decided I would bring it home and check it out in my room for the small fee of $25.

wanted

just curious

Before I headed to the checkout counter I grabbed a few other things I saw and liked (everything in the store was 20% off). I think it was at this point that I went to grab my wallet, and it wasn't there! I had left it at home on the counter where I used it to pay for the children's upcoming field trips! I was so annoyed! Mostly because the mall is at least 25-30 minutes away, and I wanted to reward the boys for being so good, but of course could not.

I am going to try again on Friday. This time with no kids in tow!

This is my most favorite rug right now!

Sums Up My Whole Day

2011-04-18T23:06:00.000-04:00

I took the boys to the Outlets today because I needed new running shoes and the 1/2 marathon is less than 2 weeks away. Of course I got distracted by all the other shops there and didn't get to the shoes until 2 hours into the shopping trip. Needless to say the boys were DONE at that point, but I still couldn't resist hitting just two more stores. It was at this point that Luke went into totally melt down mode, but it wasn't until we got home that he covered his face with mascara.

Thanks for the adventure today boys!

Surprise Visit from the Easter Bunny

2011-04-17T22:46:00.001-04:00

While I was napping and Brian was cleaning out the basement the children noticed a ton of easter eggs in the yard. They were trying so hard to figure out how one of us could have done it, but they finally realized the only thing it could have been was an early visit from the Easter Bunny. They were so excited and grabbed the first bags they could find and ran out there to get those eggs.

Enjoy our wonderful Sunday attire where apparently pants are optional, and babies have marker ALL OVER them.

Books from Punta Cana

2011-04-15T08:22:00.006-04:00

One of my favorite things about our trip to Punta Cana was all the uninterrupted reading time I had, and I am so grateful I took some great books with me.

The night before we left I had book group and we discussed The School Of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister. Even thought I didn't technically read it on the vacation I have to mention it because I loved it! I fell in love with each of the characters and felt like I knew them personally. I read it in about 2 days, (thanks to Kai and Luke for sleeping in until 10am on the second day) because I just needed to know more about each character. If you haven't already read it, you need to. Also, good news, her next book is coming out in June.

Jackie & Bobby was the first actual book of the trip. I started it on the plane and finished it the day after we arrived. It is all about the relationship that grew between Jackie & Bobby out of their grief from losing John F. Kennedy. I learned a lot I hadn't known before, and I was heartbroken for Jackie most of the book. I really enjoyed it however, if you are not interested in the Kennedy's or non-fiction it might not be for you.

Here I am reading Jackie & Bobby poolside.

Then I started to read a book I have been wanting to read since I saw it at Target, and then saw it on a blog I like. It is Bloodroot by Amy Greene. I loved every second of it. It is about a girl named Myra who grew up in Appalachia, told through the people closest to her. It was a heartbreaking and vivid story of her family. My mom grew up in the Appalachian mountains of eastern Kentucky, and although her experience growing up there (and mine visiting as a kid) was nothing like this families, I could relate to her love of the land around her. Visiting Kentucky as a child was the most amazing experience, and I think part of my love for it was trees, creeks, hollers, and animals that were always surrounding me. My grandparents owned an awesome house on over 350 acres of land, all untouched and unexplored. Amy Greene did an amazing job of writing about the land surrounding Myra, it was almost its own character.

Here I am reading Bloodroot with the ocean right in front of me. I love this picture because it pretty much sums up what we did the whole time. Brian tanned, I read, Emily put on sunscreen, and Nate took pictures.

Lastly I started to read Wild Swan by Jung Chang. I read it about 4 years ago for my book group in Washington, and now I am reading it again for this book group. This is another great book, and is about three generations of Chinese women. Jung Chang does a wonderful job telling her story as well has her mothers and grandmothers. Parts are brutal but she doesn't hold back. I am so excited to read it again because I already see myself noticing things I didn't the first time around. I can't wait for another great discussion about it.

Happy Reading!

*Side note: We just traded pictures with the Steinhafel's and I am sorting through them right now, so the rest of our trip pictures will be up soon!

Bird Watching & The Dentist

2011-04-13T22:22:00.000-04:00

Today while we were eating lunch we noticed a bird with a beak full of grass. After Kai stopped laughing because he thought it looked like a silly beard, he came to the conclusion that he was building a nest. Naturally, he wanted to know where his nest was. As luck might have it, it was right under our neighbors deck. An ideal spot for us to bird watch from our kitchen window. We saw other birds, but we could always tell if it was our bird if he went back under the deck.

Kai and Luke were both highly entertained by the bird and the potential nest making that was going on just a few feet away. Then Kai made up a "pattern song" that went:

Churp, churp,

Tweet, Tweet.

(repeat about 1 million times, yeah that should be good)

Then Luke chimed in. I am pretty sure that was just what the bird needed to encourage him to hurry up with his nest making.

After nearly an hour of Bird Watching it was time for Kai and I to head to the dentist. This was Kai's very first time, and he was a little nervous even though he is five years old and very brave.

Here is a picture of us in the car before we went in.

Not so scared anymore.

Good News, clean teeth are the best! Bad News, I have two cavities. I have NEVER had a cavity before and I am FREAKING OUT. I of course realize that every day people are getting cavities filled, but somehow that just doesn't help! Sedation Dentistry anyone? Just thinking about it (and typing about it) makes me want to vomit!

Its been 1 Week

2011-04-13T11:03:00.004-04:00

It has been one week back into the life I knew and lived before Punta Cana. I am not even going to lie, it has been rough.

I have been flung right back into the rigorous life of school lunches, hair braiding, laundry, dishes (without a dishwasher), bathrooms, vacuuming, mopping, play group, homework, church callings, phone calls, doctor and dentist appointments, and the hardest chore of all, making my own bed (and 4 others).

And not once during all these difficult takes has someone offered me a Pina Colada, NOT ONCE!

Happy Sunday

2011-04-10T09:42:00.000-04:00

Take 1....nope

Take 2...still no

Take 3... seriously guys, just get in the car we are going to be late

Punta Cana - THE END

2011-04-06T22:18:00.000-04:00

I guess it is true what they say, all good things must come to an end. I was really missing the children and was ready to get home to them. Somehow that still didn't make it easy to leave. I loved every second of this trip and am looking forward to the next one!

Sad Faces

BYE PUJ

Punta Cana - Part 6

2011-04-05T22:10:00.001-04:00

This morning Brian and Nate headed down to the beach for the scuba diving lessons. It was a very quite morning and I finally headed down to the pool around 10. Brian and Nate got back around 2 and had a great time. I wish we had some pictures of them down there.

We spent our last night down in the main lobby listening to music and just having a great time!

Punta Cana - The End