Either I didn't find the photos from February or I lost them, or put them in a folder somewhere in the computer....
We kicked off February with an Eight is Great night for Aidan. The stake does a special night to introduce the kids that will be turning eight this year to what will happen on their baptism day. We can't believe he will be getting baptized this year. He has been reading the Book of Mormon trying to be on track to finish it before he gets baptized. We tried to grow some sugar crystals, but we weren't too successful. He is posting something about it in Cuz Chron, so if you try it and are successful, let us know your tips! He was able to take a geode to school and show the kids and he has been trying to lose a tooth --at school--because they get a little treasure box to put the tooth in. He is such a sweet sensitive boy. For Valentine's Day, he made each person in his class a personalized valentine. He made each member of the family a valentine as well, and really put thought and hard work into what he did to make others happy.
Weston also made a personalized valentine for each person--even writing or drawing something that the person liked (one girl liked One Direction, so he wrote 1D, and someone else liked moustaches, so he drew a moustache). Those are real valentines! He received quite a valentine from an admirer in his class as well. Who wouldn't love this boy!? He has also worked extra hard and finished his Bear! He was able to get all of his requirements for the Bear done 3 months early! He also earned 4 arrow points. We are so proud of him for taking this seriously. He is ready for the snow to melt so he can get out there playing soccer.
We are all ready for some sunshine--and ready to get into gardening. I was able to get some branches from the trees in Omi's old house (from where she grew up) and graft them into our apple tree! We planted the biggest tree we could find (it was very small) in the fall and now that it is almost spring the time came to graft in the branches. We found a wonderful arborist, James Batton, who happens to live close by and he drove up with us to Omi's house and cute off several branches. Our tree is a bit small for grafting, but he is hopeful that they will take. The lady that lives in Omi's old house (Carol Cramer--it happens that her mother is the one who bought the house from Gerbie and once her mother passed away she has lived there. So really, the house has only belonged to two families. Pretty cool.) Anyway, she let us go up and check it all out and she was so nice about it all. She says if they don't work then we can try again next year. I feel like this has all fallen into place so well, I am very optimistic that it will work out. I wish I could have known my grandfather, but hopefully he is happy I have a part of him in my yard (that sounds just a litttle strange...). I will keep you all updated on how the tree does.
Scott is now teaching the 10 and 11 year old boys at church and I am having lots of fun in Young Women (we have such a good group of girls). We had a Valentine Party with some friends from the neighborhood and it was great fun getting to know new people. We also went out with some friends from our old neighborhood--we miss them!
Brennan loved his first Valentine's Day with a girlfriend (Leah) who doted lots of pictures on him. He came home from preschool very happy and very full of sugar! I am proud of him for writing all of the names of the kids in his class on valentines and writing his name. That is quite a lot of writing. But, he seems to really love to write and he loves to copy what is written--often in church he will copy words --from the hymnbook or scriptures, etc. He is working hard on trying to reach a goal of sleeping through the night--staying in his bed. He does well when he has a goal and I am amazed at the determination he has to reach his goal. He is definitely a morning person--wakes up so early and isn't tired throughout the day. What a kid. One of my favorite things he does is put on his shirt backwards every day! Even though he knows it is wrong, he still does it--just for fun!
Speaking of silly little kids, our Elise takes the cake! Wow, what a riot. She makes the silliest faces. I love her facial expressions when she is surprised, happy, sad, and every other face! I want to pinch it!!! I love how much she loves her brothers and us--Everyone is her best friend. She said the other day, "I want to be with mom, she is my best friend." Then again, she also said to me, "Mom, your hair is weird." One of her jobs is to get out the scriptures for family scripture study and she takes it very seriously and gets angry when others try to help. She also HAS to open the front door when someone comes to visit and if someone else gets the door, she wants them to go back outside and she will then open the door. We adore her!
One thing we are doing as a family right now is memorizing "The Living Christ." I am trying to do it for a YW project and Weston will use it for a Faith in God project. It has been eye opening--not only because of all the great conversations we have had about Jesus Christ, but also how smart our children are --and how well they memorize! We are also going to begin our lessons from "Preach My Gospel" to help prepare Aidan for baptism. We did this with Weston and it was a great reminder for our entire family about the basics of the gospel.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
January
After the whirlwind of December, we were hoping for a nice quiet January. And although it wasn't too crazy, it was still busy. We took Weston on a snowshoeing hike to start the year off right. We went up Yellow Fork Canyon, and then Scott took just Aidan on a quick hike. I am so glad we have a fun family activity to share with the kids. Then Scott and I went an a childless hike the Saturday before his birthday. We had been having a terrible inversion in the valley and it was great to get up into the mountains high enough to breathe good air.
For Scott's birthday, we made a delicious dinner and had family over to share it. Our brother in law shares the same birthday, so we joined forces for a party. I made some "Almond Joy Cupcakes" and they were divine. He received a tile saw and a nail gun. He eagerly began a project using the tile saw and made a beautiful backsplash in our kitchen. It did take us awhile to decide what to do. We spent 4-5 hours on one day looking and then ended up not liking what we chose, so the next weekend, we spent another hour making our final choice. We love how it all turned out. Scott is marvelous at things like this and I can't wait for him to use the other tool to finish our basement...
We took some opportunities to get to know some people in our neighborhood. We had a few families over for dinner various times. We really enjoy the people here. The kids have also been invited to a couple birthday parties and have been able to get out playing in the snow the with neighbor kids.
The boys are enjoying school. Weston was chosen to be in a special science group at school. He gets to attend special classes and participate in events. He also created a piece of art to enter into a contest. Although he didn't win, it was a beautiful landscape picture and he spent a lot of time and energy to make it so wonderful. He and Scott worked all month long on a rocket for the scouts Space Derby. His rocket won for fastest rocket and most streamlined. It really was amazingly fast. I videotaped it going across the line, but wasn't fast enough to keep up with it! He was so excited to win, but said that his favorite part was working with his dad to make the rocket (awww).
We also had the opportunity to bring home Weston's class pet hampster, Snowball. The kids loved having him for the weekend (Scott and I were glad it was just a weekend... :). We played with him and held him and fell in love. We got a few good photos. Then a week or two later, Snowball died (in the classroom, not here). It was sad for Weston and he wanted to do something, so we put together a collage of the few photos we made and put it in a frame for class to have. Goodbye Snowball, we will miss you!
Aidan has been "caught being good" several times at school and is really improving in his reading. He has showed interest in starting the violin so we are looking for a teacher and a violin (Matt and Barbara have offered Grace's old one), and wondering if he will have the determination to practice both the piano and the violin daily. I think he will be a natural.
Brennan is loving preschool of course, though he asks all the time when he gets to start kindergarten. We have read through all of the "Bob Books" Omi gave him for Christmas and now we are starting on the books I had when I was a child (Sam and Al, etc). He loves to tell stories, but often we can't follow what he is saying--he is very detailed, but un-follow-able... He also makes us laugh every day because he STILL puts on his shirts backwards!
To end the month we had another birthday; Elise turned three! She is so much fun. She has just started liking Strawberry Shortcake, so Grandma and Grandpa gave her a cute Strawberry Shortcake tea set. She loves it! Norma and Elaine came and gave her a bunch of rings and a princess coloring book. Omi and Opa gave her her special dolly, "Princess Sparkle" with the matching dress. Elise promptly put the dress on and didn't take it off for 24 hours. I made a bed for her doll with a quilt and pillowcase. She loves to put her dolly to bed, and then carries her around all day. Having a three year old party for a little girl is so much fun! We made an angel food cake with whipped cream and strawberries and a few pink cupcakes. She loves to play with Brennan --they love to play house. Just today she was pretending that he was the baby and she was the mommy. She "read" him several books. She loves all her brothers and at night, once we've put them all to bed, she sneaks out of her room and climbs into bed with one of them! There have been several nights when Weston comes down complaining of Elise kicking him. She also says sweet and funny things. Brennan wanted to be wrapped in his blanket like a taco and Elise said wanted to do it too, so said, "I want a cock-a-doodle blankie". She loves to help with work around the house. Her job is to put napkins around the table and she takes it seriously. We love her happy happy smile, her silly silly faces, and her infectious laugh! Happy Birthday lovely girl!!!
I am still loving Young Women and I really love the new teaching program the church has in place. I think it will be so effective. I really enjoy the girls.
I cut my hair off and donated it to Children with Hair Loss. It was a good excuse to grow it out and a good excuse to cut it. I am loving my hair cut--I was getting sick of the long hair. And a change is nice, especially at the beginning of the year--to go along with our new resolutions. We'll see how well they go.
For Scott's birthday, we made a delicious dinner and had family over to share it. Our brother in law shares the same birthday, so we joined forces for a party. I made some "Almond Joy Cupcakes" and they were divine. He received a tile saw and a nail gun. He eagerly began a project using the tile saw and made a beautiful backsplash in our kitchen. It did take us awhile to decide what to do. We spent 4-5 hours on one day looking and then ended up not liking what we chose, so the next weekend, we spent another hour making our final choice. We love how it all turned out. Scott is marvelous at things like this and I can't wait for him to use the other tool to finish our basement...
We took some opportunities to get to know some people in our neighborhood. We had a few families over for dinner various times. We really enjoy the people here. The kids have also been invited to a couple birthday parties and have been able to get out playing in the snow the with neighbor kids.
The boys are enjoying school. Weston was chosen to be in a special science group at school. He gets to attend special classes and participate in events. He also created a piece of art to enter into a contest. Although he didn't win, it was a beautiful landscape picture and he spent a lot of time and energy to make it so wonderful. He and Scott worked all month long on a rocket for the scouts Space Derby. His rocket won for fastest rocket and most streamlined. It really was amazingly fast. I videotaped it going across the line, but wasn't fast enough to keep up with it! He was so excited to win, but said that his favorite part was working with his dad to make the rocket (awww).
We also had the opportunity to bring home Weston's class pet hampster, Snowball. The kids loved having him for the weekend (Scott and I were glad it was just a weekend... :). We played with him and held him and fell in love. We got a few good photos. Then a week or two later, Snowball died (in the classroom, not here). It was sad for Weston and he wanted to do something, so we put together a collage of the few photos we made and put it in a frame for class to have. Goodbye Snowball, we will miss you!
Aidan has been "caught being good" several times at school and is really improving in his reading. He has showed interest in starting the violin so we are looking for a teacher and a violin (Matt and Barbara have offered Grace's old one), and wondering if he will have the determination to practice both the piano and the violin daily. I think he will be a natural.
Brennan is loving preschool of course, though he asks all the time when he gets to start kindergarten. We have read through all of the "Bob Books" Omi gave him for Christmas and now we are starting on the books I had when I was a child (Sam and Al, etc). He loves to tell stories, but often we can't follow what he is saying--he is very detailed, but un-follow-able... He also makes us laugh every day because he STILL puts on his shirts backwards!
To end the month we had another birthday; Elise turned three! She is so much fun. She has just started liking Strawberry Shortcake, so Grandma and Grandpa gave her a cute Strawberry Shortcake tea set. She loves it! Norma and Elaine came and gave her a bunch of rings and a princess coloring book. Omi and Opa gave her her special dolly, "Princess Sparkle" with the matching dress. Elise promptly put the dress on and didn't take it off for 24 hours. I made a bed for her doll with a quilt and pillowcase. She loves to put her dolly to bed, and then carries her around all day. Having a three year old party for a little girl is so much fun! We made an angel food cake with whipped cream and strawberries and a few pink cupcakes. She loves to play with Brennan --they love to play house. Just today she was pretending that he was the baby and she was the mommy. She "read" him several books. She loves all her brothers and at night, once we've put them all to bed, she sneaks out of her room and climbs into bed with one of them! There have been several nights when Weston comes down complaining of Elise kicking him. She also says sweet and funny things. Brennan wanted to be wrapped in his blanket like a taco and Elise said wanted to do it too, so said, "I want a cock-a-doodle blankie". She loves to help with work around the house. Her job is to put napkins around the table and she takes it seriously. We love her happy happy smile, her silly silly faces, and her infectious laugh! Happy Birthday lovely girl!!!
I am still loving Young Women and I really love the new teaching program the church has in place. I think it will be so effective. I really enjoy the girls.
I cut my hair off and donated it to Children with Hair Loss. It was a good excuse to grow it out and a good excuse to cut it. I am loving my hair cut--I was getting sick of the long hair. And a change is nice, especially at the beginning of the year--to go along with our new resolutions. We'll see how well they go.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
December
The month of December was pretty good considering that we were exceptionally busy. I was not on top of things and didn't get all the present shopping done early. It didn't help that Brennan kept
changing his mind about what he wanted (up til the last minute...). Weston is getting past the toy stage and getting into expensive items. Aidan is usually easy to shop for, mainly because he always asks for rocks... and of course Elise is fun to shop for because I get to buy new girl toys!!!
At the beginning of the month we went up to Idaho to spend time with the Barkers and had a marvelous time! (It is so cold up there though!) Heidi is so good at throwing fun parties--yummy drinks, special desserts, abelskivers, etc. Cal Murdock and Mr. Bowen were invited so it was fun to get caught up with both of them. Mr. Bowen was so funny and fun. We sang Christmas songs and had a talent show from the kids. Cal gave me an update on his life and one of his good friends is preparing to go back through the temple. What a great influence he has been! The kids all had a great time together as well. Heidi and I made neighbor gifts together (Abuelitas Hot Chocolate) and we plan on doing neighbor gifts together for next year as well.
Scott and I somehow (miraculously) got tickets to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir Concert. It was with Alfie Boe and Tom Brokaw. Tom Brokaw told the story of the Candy Bomber (Col. Gail "Hal" Halvorsen)--look it up, good stuff. It was an amazing performance and I was brought to tears (which doesn't happen often. Scott, of course, was crying...) When it comes out on DVD next year I suggest you all watch it. We went with some new friends from our ward and then went out to Cheesecake Factory. It seems we were out every night this month!
Speaking of music, Scott and I sing in our ward Choir and there was a Stake Night of Music we were a part of. The songs were really pretty this year. One was a Brazilian Christmas Folk Song that was beautiful! The kids also learned another new song for this year (they learn a new Christmas song this year) and we practiced and practiced and then went to a few homes in our neighborhood and sang to some people and then went to our local Nursing Home and sang to them. It was a great experience. We do it yearly and sometimes I think, "Why do we do this? It is such a hassle and the kids don't seem to get it." This year, it paid off. Weston could not stop talking about it and what a great time he had. Yippee! He loved it! Weston had a recorder recital at school as well this year and he has done a great job with it. I am glad my kids love music so much. And continuing on the subject of singing, Aidan had a very special part in our ward Christmas program in Sacrament Meeting. He sang the first verse of Silent Night all by himself. The primary joined him on the second verse and the choir joined on the 3rd. He did a marvelous job and it brought tears to many people. Brennan also had a chance to show off his singing when his preschool had a Christmas program and they all sang fun songs. He has some really good friends in preschool and they are so cute together.
One of the funnest parts of the month was the Brown Family party which we hosted this year. Barbara always seems to be hosting and she needs a break, plus we wanted to "show off" our new house. I always love to host a party because I really clean the house!!! I know there is clean up after, but paper plates help with that. The regular clan showed up, Matt and Barb and their kids, Lynn and his kids, Jennie Stephens and clan, and this year Adam and Jan brought some of Jan's family and they were a delightful addition. Hilary brought her new beau Charles, great to meet him. We all had a great time and the food was great. The highlight of the party was the nativity when Lily was Mary, and she had a doll, but then the other three girls (who were angels or etc) all came in with their baby Jesus dolls (Elise's was Minnie Mouse). So we really had four Mary's...
We had two nights of Christmas parties with the Daws. One night we took presents to some families in need (instead of getting presents for each other or from Mom and Dad, we took that money and got presents for three different needy families), and then Santa came to visit. It is such a highlight for the kids. Then, the next day we had a huge dinner together and visited and watched the movie "Silent Night" (another great DVD I suggest).
Even though we were busy having fun a lot of the month, we didn't miss out on our share of sickness. Everyone went through a bout of a stomach bug, and then all the kids had fevers and colds at some point. That didn't seem to stop us from having fun though.
Christmas eve was full of our usual traditions (this year they got Angry Bird pjs). It was a really snowy night and so we curled up with hot chocolate and watched Christmas movies together. Christmas morning was fun in our new house, but different, too. Before they couldn't see the living room with all the loot, but this year they came out of their rooms and peeked over the banister. Weston received a soccer trainer and Ute stuff, Aidan got Ninjago Legos toys and rocks, Brennan got an art easel and a donut maker, and Elise got a bike and Minnie Mouse toys. Weston made us some presents at school and scouts and Aidan gave each person a present he had made or found. Brennan made some special gifts he left for Santa. On Christmas Eve he said a special prayer that Santa's sleigh wouldn't crash. Elise loved getting into all the Christmas fun.
I am curled in my my bed with a heating blanket on me--it is my favorite gift from my husband. He also gave me a entry table (yea!). I got him some foam mats for his workout room and a tiny Moroni. He has a Salt Lake Temple replica from his grandparents, but the Moroni broke off and was lost years ago. I found a tie pin of Moroni and it fits perfectly!
Ali came in to town and we had so much fun playing and shopping. We went to City Creek and spent lots of time just window shopping--Anthropologie is the greatest!! Such cute stuff that costs way too much, but let's us dream... my dream house is so nice!!! Then we spent time not window shopping, on little girl clothes. Gymboree had a great sale and then we both got an extra 25% off the
total! Ali is so much fun to shop with. We also treated ourselves to cute shirts as a reward for being such great shoppers.
They whole Garner clan came over on Sunday and joined us at church and then we had a great afternoon just hanging out together. We made a delicious dinner of chicken enchiladas and Hil and Charles joined us. I didn't make enough, things were gobbled up quickly. We played a really fun game (I don't know what it is called, but it is where everyone writes names of famous/well-known people and then we split into teams and try to guess the names... It was pretty fun). I loved having Ali close and spending good time with her! Elise and Mer had a great time playing and Ethan has grown so much (I am trying to convince him to come live here in the summer and help finish our basement.... :) Noah was just as fun as always--Thanks for coming to visit!
Over the break we had fun with cousins at grandma and grandpa's, went to a movie (Rise of the Guardians), went out to Tepanyaki (lots of fun, especially cause we put all the adults at one table and the kids at another!), played with all the new toys, played in the snow, and Scott and I went to Les Miserables and went to a party with friends from the old neighborhood. I am glad we can keep in contact with them. For New Year's Eve we went to Matt and Liz's house and had a fun party. We are all getting tired from staying up so late! I am ready to get back to a schedule. Happy New Year everyone!
changing his mind about what he wanted (up til the last minute...). Weston is getting past the toy stage and getting into expensive items. Aidan is usually easy to shop for, mainly because he always asks for rocks... and of course Elise is fun to shop for because I get to buy new girl toys!!!
At the beginning of the month we went up to Idaho to spend time with the Barkers and had a marvelous time! (It is so cold up there though!) Heidi is so good at throwing fun parties--yummy drinks, special desserts, abelskivers, etc. Cal Murdock and Mr. Bowen were invited so it was fun to get caught up with both of them. Mr. Bowen was so funny and fun. We sang Christmas songs and had a talent show from the kids. Cal gave me an update on his life and one of his good friends is preparing to go back through the temple. What a great influence he has been! The kids all had a great time together as well. Heidi and I made neighbor gifts together (Abuelitas Hot Chocolate) and we plan on doing neighbor gifts together for next year as well.
Scott and I somehow (miraculously) got tickets to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir Concert. It was with Alfie Boe and Tom Brokaw. Tom Brokaw told the story of the Candy Bomber (Col. Gail "Hal" Halvorsen)--look it up, good stuff. It was an amazing performance and I was brought to tears (which doesn't happen often. Scott, of course, was crying...) When it comes out on DVD next year I suggest you all watch it. We went with some new friends from our ward and then went out to Cheesecake Factory. It seems we were out every night this month!
Speaking of music, Scott and I sing in our ward Choir and there was a Stake Night of Music we were a part of. The songs were really pretty this year. One was a Brazilian Christmas Folk Song that was beautiful! The kids also learned another new song for this year (they learn a new Christmas song this year) and we practiced and practiced and then went to a few homes in our neighborhood and sang to some people and then went to our local Nursing Home and sang to them. It was a great experience. We do it yearly and sometimes I think, "Why do we do this? It is such a hassle and the kids don't seem to get it." This year, it paid off. Weston could not stop talking about it and what a great time he had. Yippee! He loved it! Weston had a recorder recital at school as well this year and he has done a great job with it. I am glad my kids love music so much. And continuing on the subject of singing, Aidan had a very special part in our ward Christmas program in Sacrament Meeting. He sang the first verse of Silent Night all by himself. The primary joined him on the second verse and the choir joined on the 3rd. He did a marvelous job and it brought tears to many people. Brennan also had a chance to show off his singing when his preschool had a Christmas program and they all sang fun songs. He has some really good friends in preschool and they are so cute together.
One of the funnest parts of the month was the Brown Family party which we hosted this year. Barbara always seems to be hosting and she needs a break, plus we wanted to "show off" our new house. I always love to host a party because I really clean the house!!! I know there is clean up after, but paper plates help with that. The regular clan showed up, Matt and Barb and their kids, Lynn and his kids, Jennie Stephens and clan, and this year Adam and Jan brought some of Jan's family and they were a delightful addition. Hilary brought her new beau Charles, great to meet him. We all had a great time and the food was great. The highlight of the party was the nativity when Lily was Mary, and she had a doll, but then the other three girls (who were angels or etc) all came in with their baby Jesus dolls (Elise's was Minnie Mouse). So we really had four Mary's...
We had two nights of Christmas parties with the Daws. One night we took presents to some families in need (instead of getting presents for each other or from Mom and Dad, we took that money and got presents for three different needy families), and then Santa came to visit. It is such a highlight for the kids. Then, the next day we had a huge dinner together and visited and watched the movie "Silent Night" (another great DVD I suggest).
Even though we were busy having fun a lot of the month, we didn't miss out on our share of sickness. Everyone went through a bout of a stomach bug, and then all the kids had fevers and colds at some point. That didn't seem to stop us from having fun though.
Christmas eve was full of our usual traditions (this year they got Angry Bird pjs). It was a really snowy night and so we curled up with hot chocolate and watched Christmas movies together. Christmas morning was fun in our new house, but different, too. Before they couldn't see the living room with all the loot, but this year they came out of their rooms and peeked over the banister. Weston received a soccer trainer and Ute stuff, Aidan got Ninjago Legos toys and rocks, Brennan got an art easel and a donut maker, and Elise got a bike and Minnie Mouse toys. Weston made us some presents at school and scouts and Aidan gave each person a present he had made or found. Brennan made some special gifts he left for Santa. On Christmas Eve he said a special prayer that Santa's sleigh wouldn't crash. Elise loved getting into all the Christmas fun.
I am curled in my my bed with a heating blanket on me--it is my favorite gift from my husband. He also gave me a entry table (yea!). I got him some foam mats for his workout room and a tiny Moroni. He has a Salt Lake Temple replica from his grandparents, but the Moroni broke off and was lost years ago. I found a tie pin of Moroni and it fits perfectly!
Ali came in to town and we had so much fun playing and shopping. We went to City Creek and spent lots of time just window shopping--Anthropologie is the greatest!! Such cute stuff that costs way too much, but let's us dream... my dream house is so nice!!! Then we spent time not window shopping, on little girl clothes. Gymboree had a great sale and then we both got an extra 25% off the
total! Ali is so much fun to shop with. We also treated ourselves to cute shirts as a reward for being such great shoppers.
They whole Garner clan came over on Sunday and joined us at church and then we had a great afternoon just hanging out together. We made a delicious dinner of chicken enchiladas and Hil and Charles joined us. I didn't make enough, things were gobbled up quickly. We played a really fun game (I don't know what it is called, but it is where everyone writes names of famous/well-known people and then we split into teams and try to guess the names... It was pretty fun). I loved having Ali close and spending good time with her! Elise and Mer had a great time playing and Ethan has grown so much (I am trying to convince him to come live here in the summer and help finish our basement.... :) Noah was just as fun as always--Thanks for coming to visit!
Over the break we had fun with cousins at grandma and grandpa's, went to a movie (Rise of the Guardians), went out to Tepanyaki (lots of fun, especially cause we put all the adults at one table and the kids at another!), played with all the new toys, played in the snow, and Scott and I went to Les Miserables and went to a party with friends from the old neighborhood. I am glad we can keep in contact with them. For New Year's Eve we went to Matt and Liz's house and had a fun party. We are all getting tired from staying up so late! I am ready to get back to a schedule. Happy New Year everyone!
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
November
Feasts and Fun this month with Thanksgiving and Brennan's birthday. Turning five has been the funnest for Brennan. He has been planning his party for almost a year... He wanted a "Haunted Halloween Party." I wasn't quite sure how to pull that off, so I made it into a Carnival (though we still called it a Haunted Halloween Party...). We had four different little games for the kids to play and earn tickets (bean bag toss, ring toss, etc). Then with the tickets they got to go in the bounce house (just our little one--we had filled it with balloons), or do a cakewalk (where they won a cupcake), got their face painted, or got popcorn and cotton candy--oh and they got to turn in tickets for little toys or candy. The kids absolutely loved it! We did it in our unfinished basement and Brennan kept wanting to decorate it really scary... so for that, I put up streamers. Scary, right? It seems like it was a lot of work, and it was a bit of planning, but it wasn't too bad. And it was so worth it because Brennan loved it! Norma and Elaine saved us by coming to help, otherwise it would have been more crazy.
That night we went out to a pizza place with Scott's parents and family and Grandma Nancy. He opened presents--he is fun and difficult to shop for--He couldn't decide what he wanted, and he wanted everything! He is really into Lego's right now, so he got some Lego City sets, an angry bird game and a kids cooking magazine subscription.
Brennan is such a light in our lives. He is extremely funny and full of energy. He loves preschool and is making even more friends. His teacher told me that he is winning the hearts of all the girls because he is so nice to everyone. And he is! He is nice, sweet, obedient, and wonderful! And he is so funny--constantly saying things to make us laugh. We love you Bren!
Elise is really talking, too. She has had a bit of hard time sleeping. She has stopped napping, unless she is in the car and falls asleep. The problem comes when she takes any sort of nap, she won't fall asleep until 10 or later! So she wants to come "hang out" with mom and dad. And although we should be more diligent about putting her to bed and making her stay there, it has really been fun being just with her. Eventually she falls asleep and we take her up to her bed. What a love! Her hair is growing longer and she is getting better about letting me comb it and make it all pretty. Though usually it is pretty gross and messy after an hour or so. She loves it when her daddy sings to her, and her favorite songs are: "bity-boo" (Bibbity-bobbity-boo), the "mermaid song" (Part of Your World), "temple" (I Love to See the Temple), "bird" (My Heavenly Father Loves Me), and "God" (I am a Child of God).
Aidan is loving school and excelling. His reading has exploded and is finding more books he likes to read. But he is mostly reading the Book of Mormon. He wants to finish it before he turns eight and he is right on target. One of my favorite things he does is every day before he goes to school he says, "You're the best mom in the universe." Oh I just love him!
Weston is doing great, too. We were able to go back to the old neighborhood for an afternoon and it was so fun for him to play with his friends! They miss him so much and he misses them! He has been reading the "Fudge" books, the "Unwanteds", and Grandpa and Grandma Daw's family history book. He is so responsible and helps take care of Elise and his brothers. I am so grateful to him!
We had more time on Saturday's to work on things in the house. We put up a bunch of shelves in the storage rooms and really organized the basement. Things are really coming together in the house and we really feel like we are home.
Thanksgiving was pretty normal and good. We went to Scott's parents' house. I made 96 rolls. Twenty six people were at dinner. We ate all but 16 of the rolls!!! We are so grateful for all of our blessings, especially our families and the gospel. Love you all!
That night we went out to a pizza place with Scott's parents and family and Grandma Nancy. He opened presents--he is fun and difficult to shop for--He couldn't decide what he wanted, and he wanted everything! He is really into Lego's right now, so he got some Lego City sets, an angry bird game and a kids cooking magazine subscription.
Brennan is such a light in our lives. He is extremely funny and full of energy. He loves preschool and is making even more friends. His teacher told me that he is winning the hearts of all the girls because he is so nice to everyone. And he is! He is nice, sweet, obedient, and wonderful! And he is so funny--constantly saying things to make us laugh. We love you Bren!
Elise is really talking, too. She has had a bit of hard time sleeping. She has stopped napping, unless she is in the car and falls asleep. The problem comes when she takes any sort of nap, she won't fall asleep until 10 or later! So she wants to come "hang out" with mom and dad. And although we should be more diligent about putting her to bed and making her stay there, it has really been fun being just with her. Eventually she falls asleep and we take her up to her bed. What a love! Her hair is growing longer and she is getting better about letting me comb it and make it all pretty. Though usually it is pretty gross and messy after an hour or so. She loves it when her daddy sings to her, and her favorite songs are: "bity-boo" (Bibbity-bobbity-boo), the "mermaid song" (Part of Your World), "temple" (I Love to See the Temple), "bird" (My Heavenly Father Loves Me), and "God" (I am a Child of God).
Aidan is loving school and excelling. His reading has exploded and is finding more books he likes to read. But he is mostly reading the Book of Mormon. He wants to finish it before he turns eight and he is right on target. One of my favorite things he does is every day before he goes to school he says, "You're the best mom in the universe." Oh I just love him!
Weston is doing great, too. We were able to go back to the old neighborhood for an afternoon and it was so fun for him to play with his friends! They miss him so much and he misses them! He has been reading the "Fudge" books, the "Unwanteds", and Grandpa and Grandma Daw's family history book. He is so responsible and helps take care of Elise and his brothers. I am so grateful to him!
We had more time on Saturday's to work on things in the house. We put up a bunch of shelves in the storage rooms and really organized the basement. Things are really coming together in the house and we really feel like we are home.
Thanksgiving was pretty normal and good. We went to Scott's parents' house. I made 96 rolls. Twenty six people were at dinner. We ate all but 16 of the rolls!!! We are so grateful for all of our blessings, especially our families and the gospel. Love you all!
Sunday, November 4, 2012
October
Full swing of nothing but normal busy-ness this month! Most days begin getting the kids off to school (a lot of the days hopefully even getting music and chores done before school) and then Jazzercise for me and preschool for Brennan. Elise and I spend a lot of time cleaning up the house. She is a good helper. She loves to clean glass (and make it dirty) and help with putting things away. She also likes to help me get ready--even picking out my clothes (sometimes she makes me "run into" my shirt) and puts my socks on me. She sits with me as I get ready and puts makeup on herself. We have a lot of fun together. She is very motherly--always taking care of people, singing sweetly, and telling people what to do--"Use both hands", "be careful", etc.... She loves to look at magazines and say, "Hey, I like that"--pointing to every pink thing. The boys taught her about "stealing noses"-- where you put your thumb between your fingers. She is very serious about it and loves to take our noses and put it on her own face. It has been a fun game to play with her.
We've had the last of fall soccer for Weston, but that doesn't mean he has stopped playing. Every afternoon we have a yard full of neighborhood kids playing a game--usually filled with some "unfair" calls... The weather has been so nice and the kids have spent a lot of time playing outside with friends.
Aidan tried out Karate once or twice this past month, but it was a no go. Hopefully next year we'll try again. But he is busy enough doing music--he has now learned how to transpose some of his songs from C Major to F Major. Pretty amazing. He loves to just sit at the piano and tinker around.
Brennan loves preschool! Everything about it is great--he loves singing the fun songs he has learned and telling me about apples, fire safety, and the alphabet. There is a girl in his class who gives him notes and pictures. I asked him why she did that and he said he didn't know... And he really didn't know! Humble even with girls falling for him already. He says the funniest things: When I asked him if he was ready to be five he said, "Yes, and I want to go to College so I won't have scary nightmares." He wanted me to get him some milk and he told me, "I need a picker upper thing that picks up milk."
Heidi, Beanie and Ro came down to stay with us for a bit. Hil came over, too and we had a great time together. I am so glad we get together!
Not much else happened except Halloween, which was great, but too sugary. The kids loved it. Weston was Harry Potter, Aidan was a ninja (with the outfit that came from trying out the karate class... at least it was good for something!), Brennan was the spider, and Elise was a clown. We had a neighborhood trunk or treat and Mom Daw had a Halloween party. Along with all that candy, classroom party candy, and trick or treating candy, we are good to go til Christmas!
We've had the last of fall soccer for Weston, but that doesn't mean he has stopped playing. Every afternoon we have a yard full of neighborhood kids playing a game--usually filled with some "unfair" calls... The weather has been so nice and the kids have spent a lot of time playing outside with friends.
Aidan tried out Karate once or twice this past month, but it was a no go. Hopefully next year we'll try again. But he is busy enough doing music--he has now learned how to transpose some of his songs from C Major to F Major. Pretty amazing. He loves to just sit at the piano and tinker around.
Brennan loves preschool! Everything about it is great--he loves singing the fun songs he has learned and telling me about apples, fire safety, and the alphabet. There is a girl in his class who gives him notes and pictures. I asked him why she did that and he said he didn't know... And he really didn't know! Humble even with girls falling for him already. He says the funniest things: When I asked him if he was ready to be five he said, "Yes, and I want to go to College so I won't have scary nightmares." He wanted me to get him some milk and he told me, "I need a picker upper thing that picks up milk."
Heidi, Beanie and Ro came down to stay with us for a bit. Hil came over, too and we had a great time together. I am so glad we get together!
Not much else happened except Halloween, which was great, but too sugary. The kids loved it. Weston was Harry Potter, Aidan was a ninja (with the outfit that came from trying out the karate class... at least it was good for something!), Brennan was the spider, and Elise was a clown. We had a neighborhood trunk or treat and Mom Daw had a Halloween party. Along with all that candy, classroom party candy, and trick or treating candy, we are good to go til Christmas!
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
September
It is different now, being on traditional rather than year-round school. We were able to have a much longer summer which was nice since so much of our summer was spent living in limbo and then moving into the new house. I am glad we had some time to get to know our neighborhood, feel more settled, and do some fun summer activities. We got in some swimming, fun centers, the aviary, playing with cousins, Thanksgiving Point gardens, and more. We had been moving things in and getting the house all situated, so the kids were getting a bit stir crazy. We only had dirt in our yard, so they couldn't really play outside. Except when they saw the neighbors outside--the minute they would see them they would all go running over and be in heaven--a trampoline, a playset, even a little jungle gym thing. And then when the neighbors went in, the kids would be back in--It felt a little wierd to be playing on their toys when they weren't around... And the wood floors were disasterous with all the dirt; constant dirt footprints all over. So, we remedied that with sod! It took about a week to get the sprinklers in, the yard leveled, etc, and then the sod laid. But then we couldn't walk on it for two weeks! That seemed to drag on and on. But now the kids are out there running around and although we don't have a play set, it seems our yard is the designated soccer field.
We live in a "horseshoe" (or so they call it around here). Our street starts by going west, then turns south, then turns east. It surrounds a little circle (does that all make sense?). So it is not a lot of traffic--only those who live on the actual street. It feels so much safer than the busy street we lived before. It is a great place for the kids to play. Across the street is an empty field--lots of dirt, sand, old wood, rocks, etc. Such a fun playground for the kids (kind of reminds me of the field where the Thurstons now live). There are great families all around us, and the house is constantly filled with kids. I am grateful the kids have made some good friends.
Weston has a few his age, and a few the grade younger. They are good kids and they all love soccer and bike riding. Weston is a bit of a role model for them all--they look up to him. One friend told his mom that he was so impressed with Weston cause Weston was so nice and sweet to his little sister--even in front of friends! He tends to be a leader (nice way of saying a bit bossy...) so I am especially excited that the elementary school is going to be implementing the "Leader In Me" program. I hope it helps him hone those leadership skills so he is being a good positive and helpful leader. So life is treating Weston kind--and he is being a good boy. We did have to take Weston in and get some cavities filled... first, but hopefully only, cavities for him. He is enjoying school, but really working on some tough things and I think it is a surprise to him that some things don't just come easily to him. He is expected to do high quality work and take time to think things through. He is an avid reader still and just finished the Fablehaven series (author Brandon Mull) and is now reading the Kane Chronicles (by Rick Riordian, author of the Lightning Thief--good books for those who are looking). His soccer has started up again and he is doing fabulous! We just don't understand where he got his athletic ability. He has scored 10 goals already and he has only played 2 games! He is on the same team as last year, though many of the children are new and some from last year didn't return. His coach is new as well, and he is a great coach. Weston plays soccer daily at school, and then after school with several friends from the neighborhood. He is not going to enjoy the winter...
Aidan is really starting to love reading, too. He made a chart to see if he could read 10 chapter books (his level). It only took him 2 weeks. He read quite a few of the Black Lagoon books and some Little Bear books. It makes me so happy that he wants to stay up late reading! His reward for achieving his goal was a giant kit kat! We made it with wafer cookies and melted chocolate. Now he wants to make charts with rewards for everything he does! Aidan has started up music again and it is such a great program!!! He was stubborn about starting back, but now that he is into it, he practices what he is supposed to, but then sits there and plays around for another half hour! He is really going to be able to be creative with music, but be able to understand the theory of it! He is really growing up--finally lost his first tooth! Weston actually is the one who got it out for him. We had been trying all evening (and for several days) asking him to wiggle it and try pulling it, but then late at night Weston just stuck his finger in and flipped it out. He has also learned to ride his bike without training wheels Again, thanks to Weston! Weston said he would help him and we went out a few minutes later to see Aidan riding along by himself. Scott is starting to feel gypped out of his fatherly duties... We have divided up the yard/flowerbeds into sections and each child is in charge of keeping their own section weed free. Aidan takes his responsibility very seriously and I often find him outside weeding. He is excited to get flowers/etc in next year to take care of as well. What a great kid! I love him--every day as he leaves for school he says to me, "You are the greatest mom in the universe."
Brennan loves preschool! He is so lucky he has so many friends in preschool with him--our new back door neighbor (his new best friend) Lincoln, his friends from our old neighborhood, Kinsey and Adam, and his cousin JJ. He loves his teacher, Mrs. Jean, and all the fun things they do (this is the same teacher Weston had, and Weston got to go in one day and "help out"--what a great teacher she is to allow that!). He looks darling in his backpack--which he uses to carry his water bottle to school. (Elise loves his example and puts a backpack on, too, every time we take Brennan to preschool!) He has already had a "performance"--all parents were invited to come to the class and listen to them sing songs. He was very intent on watching all the other children as they sang. He loves all the songs. He was a bit scared to sleep in his own bedroom so for several weeks each night he ended up on the floor of our room. So, we made a chart for him (charts are great, aren't they?). His prize was a lego set. And he did it! Two weeks without coming down to our room. We are so proud of him for setting a goal and accomplishing it. He made sure he said his prayers nightly asking for help to not be scared. One night he wanted to go to bed early, so I told him that he could skip doing his "night things". He crawled into bed and then said, "Oh mom, what about my prayers? I don't want to get scared in the night." He promptly got out of bed and faithfully said his prayers! He is such a good boy. He STILL loves to bake and cook and recently checked out a recipe book from the Library and we have been doing a lot of cake baking! He loves to try new treat recipes and is even doing better about eating his dinner. He ate his entire dinner the other night (sloppy joes!). He still keeps us laughing--like the other day when he was picking his nose and I asked him to stop. His reply: "I am not picking my nose, I am getting something out of it!" He also said another funny thing the other day. His friend Lincoln is in his Tuesday and Thursday (but not Friday) morning preschool class. Friday Brennan goes, and some other children from the teacher's other classes (afternoon, etc), and I guess there is another boy named Lincoln who goes on Friday (though I didn't know that). Brennan came home from school and said, "Lincoln got a new voice." I thought that was strange, so I asked him about it and he said, "Yeah, a new voice and a haircut---it is kind of curly now." I couldn't figure it out until I remembered that his friend Lincoln didn't go on Friday and he must have confused him with another Lincoln! What a funny kid!
Elise is potty trained! We are so proud of he. She had a little sticker chart (again with the charts!) and we bought her a Minnie Mouse toy to work towards. Once she had two days with no messes she received her toy! She thought it was really fun to be naked all the time (eek!), but did a great job of daily making progress. Such a difference to my first two potty training experiences! She is is big prayer girl, too. She has taken to being lazy though, and instead of saying the names of the people she wants to include, she just points at us and says, "you, you, you, you..." She also prayed the other day that "Elaine come to my house" (Elaine--the lady we lived with that loves Elise and Elise loves her). My two favorite things she says is when we explain something to her, she says, "Ohhhh". And when she wants us to do something she says, "K?" Of course, writing it, you can't hear the way she says it and it doesn't seem as cute... Although she still doesn't talk in total full sentences, she is really improving. She says random things at random times. In the car the other day she said, "I pinchess (princess), you a guy dad." And another time, "Daddy fall hit tree owie"...
Yes, Scott fell off his bike! He was invited by some of the guys in our new neighborhood to go mountain biking and along the path he hit something and flew off and pounded a tree with his chest. That caused a few weeks of slow moving and not a lot of being able to move or lift things. Before his accident he did get a bunch of things done in the home and we have all the hooks up in the toy room, the pictures up on the wall, and basically, we have the house put together. Sure, there is always something to be done... But we feel moved in. And with the yard in, Scott now has lots of work to do--mowing the lawn takes twice as long as before! We are thinking it is time to teach Weston how to mow the lawn! He has been called into Primary and teaches those who are turning eight. It is different for him, but he does a great job.
With school in full swing, there is a lot more going on and we are busy, busy, busy. One Saturday, we had a soccer game, cub-o-ree, Relief Society Super Saturday, dig up and move and then plant three trees, get 2 box springs, one bookshelf and put them up, put up a fan in the bonus room, made bread, and played with friends (and then a bunch of other normal life stuff)! Whew, tired! At the Super Saturday, I made two pillowcases to match my bedroom and they turned out fun (I can sew straight lines!) and I finally finished the curtains as well.
Before soccer began, we took a Saturday and went out rock hunting. You know how whenever you go anywhere with little children they seem to come home with rocks in their pockets? Well, we decided if they are going to look for rocks, we might as well take them rock hunting! The kids loved it and are excited to go again sometime. Aidan tells more about it in Cuz Chron.
Now, with soccer season in full swing, we never have a free Saturday, but one of Weston's games was cancelled, so we were spontaneous and went camping! It was so fun. We used Scott's parents camper (again) and went up to Wasatch State Park (again). We did all the usual things: fishing (Adian caught a fish!), hiking, hot dog and marshmallow roasting, rock and leaf collecting, and more fun. We did add a new activity--geo caching. We have done this before, but not while camping. We found two different treasures and the kids loved it. We went up Friday afternoon and came back Saturday evening, so it was short, but it was so sweet. By far, camping is my favorite family activity (my kind of camping.... not in a tent...).
General Conference is coming up, and we were talking about prophets. I asked, "When do we hear prophets?", hoping for the answer, "General Conference." Instead, Aidan said, "Once they speak." I guess that is true. I was able to go downtown for the General Relief Society session with some ladies from my new ward. We went on TRAX, something new for most of us. I was very impressed with Elder Eyring's talk and am motivated to serve more. He said that one of the purposes of his talk was "to describe some of what is yet to come in your unified service". This made me perk us and listen--it is a clue that what he is about to say is prophetic and important! He said, " I can tell you something of what lies ahead for you. As you keep the faith, you will find yourself invited by the Lord often to serve someone in need when it will not seem convenient. It may appear to be unpleasant and perhpas even impossible task." My eyes are now opened, looking for these times. I hope I am ready!
We were also blessed this month to be able to take Weston to the Brigham City Temple dedication at our church (an extension of the temple that day). How neat for him to be able to experience that at a young age.
I am sure I have missed things that we did, but I have written enough! Can't wait to see how everyone else is doing. Shout out to mom--We love that you make this into a family letter for us. Scott compared it to Nephi writing things for his children. I don't know if this is all scripture... but it is family history at its finest!
We live in a "horseshoe" (or so they call it around here). Our street starts by going west, then turns south, then turns east. It surrounds a little circle (does that all make sense?). So it is not a lot of traffic--only those who live on the actual street. It feels so much safer than the busy street we lived before. It is a great place for the kids to play. Across the street is an empty field--lots of dirt, sand, old wood, rocks, etc. Such a fun playground for the kids (kind of reminds me of the field where the Thurstons now live). There are great families all around us, and the house is constantly filled with kids. I am grateful the kids have made some good friends.
Weston has a few his age, and a few the grade younger. They are good kids and they all love soccer and bike riding. Weston is a bit of a role model for them all--they look up to him. One friend told his mom that he was so impressed with Weston cause Weston was so nice and sweet to his little sister--even in front of friends! He tends to be a leader (nice way of saying a bit bossy...) so I am especially excited that the elementary school is going to be implementing the "Leader In Me" program. I hope it helps him hone those leadership skills so he is being a good positive and helpful leader. So life is treating Weston kind--and he is being a good boy. We did have to take Weston in and get some cavities filled... first, but hopefully only, cavities for him. He is enjoying school, but really working on some tough things and I think it is a surprise to him that some things don't just come easily to him. He is expected to do high quality work and take time to think things through. He is an avid reader still and just finished the Fablehaven series (author Brandon Mull) and is now reading the Kane Chronicles (by Rick Riordian, author of the Lightning Thief--good books for those who are looking). His soccer has started up again and he is doing fabulous! We just don't understand where he got his athletic ability. He has scored 10 goals already and he has only played 2 games! He is on the same team as last year, though many of the children are new and some from last year didn't return. His coach is new as well, and he is a great coach. Weston plays soccer daily at school, and then after school with several friends from the neighborhood. He is not going to enjoy the winter...
Aidan is really starting to love reading, too. He made a chart to see if he could read 10 chapter books (his level). It only took him 2 weeks. He read quite a few of the Black Lagoon books and some Little Bear books. It makes me so happy that he wants to stay up late reading! His reward for achieving his goal was a giant kit kat! We made it with wafer cookies and melted chocolate. Now he wants to make charts with rewards for everything he does! Aidan has started up music again and it is such a great program!!! He was stubborn about starting back, but now that he is into it, he practices what he is supposed to, but then sits there and plays around for another half hour! He is really going to be able to be creative with music, but be able to understand the theory of it! He is really growing up--finally lost his first tooth! Weston actually is the one who got it out for him. We had been trying all evening (and for several days) asking him to wiggle it and try pulling it, but then late at night Weston just stuck his finger in and flipped it out. He has also learned to ride his bike without training wheels Again, thanks to Weston! Weston said he would help him and we went out a few minutes later to see Aidan riding along by himself. Scott is starting to feel gypped out of his fatherly duties... We have divided up the yard/flowerbeds into sections and each child is in charge of keeping their own section weed free. Aidan takes his responsibility very seriously and I often find him outside weeding. He is excited to get flowers/etc in next year to take care of as well. What a great kid! I love him--every day as he leaves for school he says to me, "You are the greatest mom in the universe."
Brennan loves preschool! He is so lucky he has so many friends in preschool with him--our new back door neighbor (his new best friend) Lincoln, his friends from our old neighborhood, Kinsey and Adam, and his cousin JJ. He loves his teacher, Mrs. Jean, and all the fun things they do (this is the same teacher Weston had, and Weston got to go in one day and "help out"--what a great teacher she is to allow that!). He looks darling in his backpack--which he uses to carry his water bottle to school. (Elise loves his example and puts a backpack on, too, every time we take Brennan to preschool!) He has already had a "performance"--all parents were invited to come to the class and listen to them sing songs. He was very intent on watching all the other children as they sang. He loves all the songs. He was a bit scared to sleep in his own bedroom so for several weeks each night he ended up on the floor of our room. So, we made a chart for him (charts are great, aren't they?). His prize was a lego set. And he did it! Two weeks without coming down to our room. We are so proud of him for setting a goal and accomplishing it. He made sure he said his prayers nightly asking for help to not be scared. One night he wanted to go to bed early, so I told him that he could skip doing his "night things". He crawled into bed and then said, "Oh mom, what about my prayers? I don't want to get scared in the night." He promptly got out of bed and faithfully said his prayers! He is such a good boy. He STILL loves to bake and cook and recently checked out a recipe book from the Library and we have been doing a lot of cake baking! He loves to try new treat recipes and is even doing better about eating his dinner. He ate his entire dinner the other night (sloppy joes!). He still keeps us laughing--like the other day when he was picking his nose and I asked him to stop. His reply: "I am not picking my nose, I am getting something out of it!" He also said another funny thing the other day. His friend Lincoln is in his Tuesday and Thursday (but not Friday) morning preschool class. Friday Brennan goes, and some other children from the teacher's other classes (afternoon, etc), and I guess there is another boy named Lincoln who goes on Friday (though I didn't know that). Brennan came home from school and said, "Lincoln got a new voice." I thought that was strange, so I asked him about it and he said, "Yeah, a new voice and a haircut---it is kind of curly now." I couldn't figure it out until I remembered that his friend Lincoln didn't go on Friday and he must have confused him with another Lincoln! What a funny kid!
Elise is potty trained! We are so proud of he. She had a little sticker chart (again with the charts!) and we bought her a Minnie Mouse toy to work towards. Once she had two days with no messes she received her toy! She thought it was really fun to be naked all the time (eek!), but did a great job of daily making progress. Such a difference to my first two potty training experiences! She is is big prayer girl, too. She has taken to being lazy though, and instead of saying the names of the people she wants to include, she just points at us and says, "you, you, you, you..." She also prayed the other day that "Elaine come to my house" (Elaine--the lady we lived with that loves Elise and Elise loves her). My two favorite things she says is when we explain something to her, she says, "Ohhhh". And when she wants us to do something she says, "K?" Of course, writing it, you can't hear the way she says it and it doesn't seem as cute... Although she still doesn't talk in total full sentences, she is really improving. She says random things at random times. In the car the other day she said, "I pinchess (princess), you a guy dad." And another time, "Daddy fall hit tree owie"...
Yes, Scott fell off his bike! He was invited by some of the guys in our new neighborhood to go mountain biking and along the path he hit something and flew off and pounded a tree with his chest. That caused a few weeks of slow moving and not a lot of being able to move or lift things. Before his accident he did get a bunch of things done in the home and we have all the hooks up in the toy room, the pictures up on the wall, and basically, we have the house put together. Sure, there is always something to be done... But we feel moved in. And with the yard in, Scott now has lots of work to do--mowing the lawn takes twice as long as before! We are thinking it is time to teach Weston how to mow the lawn! He has been called into Primary and teaches those who are turning eight. It is different for him, but he does a great job.
With school in full swing, there is a lot more going on and we are busy, busy, busy. One Saturday, we had a soccer game, cub-o-ree, Relief Society Super Saturday, dig up and move and then plant three trees, get 2 box springs, one bookshelf and put them up, put up a fan in the bonus room, made bread, and played with friends (and then a bunch of other normal life stuff)! Whew, tired! At the Super Saturday, I made two pillowcases to match my bedroom and they turned out fun (I can sew straight lines!) and I finally finished the curtains as well.
Before soccer began, we took a Saturday and went out rock hunting. You know how whenever you go anywhere with little children they seem to come home with rocks in their pockets? Well, we decided if they are going to look for rocks, we might as well take them rock hunting! The kids loved it and are excited to go again sometime. Aidan tells more about it in Cuz Chron.
Now, with soccer season in full swing, we never have a free Saturday, but one of Weston's games was cancelled, so we were spontaneous and went camping! It was so fun. We used Scott's parents camper (again) and went up to Wasatch State Park (again). We did all the usual things: fishing (Adian caught a fish!), hiking, hot dog and marshmallow roasting, rock and leaf collecting, and more fun. We did add a new activity--geo caching. We have done this before, but not while camping. We found two different treasures and the kids loved it. We went up Friday afternoon and came back Saturday evening, so it was short, but it was so sweet. By far, camping is my favorite family activity (my kind of camping.... not in a tent...).
General Conference is coming up, and we were talking about prophets. I asked, "When do we hear prophets?", hoping for the answer, "General Conference." Instead, Aidan said, "Once they speak." I guess that is true. I was able to go downtown for the General Relief Society session with some ladies from my new ward. We went on TRAX, something new for most of us. I was very impressed with Elder Eyring's talk and am motivated to serve more. He said that one of the purposes of his talk was "to describe some of what is yet to come in your unified service". This made me perk us and listen--it is a clue that what he is about to say is prophetic and important! He said, " I can tell you something of what lies ahead for you. As you keep the faith, you will find yourself invited by the Lord often to serve someone in need when it will not seem convenient. It may appear to be unpleasant and perhpas even impossible task." My eyes are now opened, looking for these times. I hope I am ready!
We were also blessed this month to be able to take Weston to the Brigham City Temple dedication at our church (an extension of the temple that day). How neat for him to be able to experience that at a young age.
I am sure I have missed things that we did, but I have written enough! Can't wait to see how everyone else is doing. Shout out to mom--We love that you make this into a family letter for us. Scott compared it to Nephi writing things for his children. I don't know if this is all scripture... but it is family history at its finest!
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