We did do a few others things this last year that didn't involve sports.
In May, my sister Breanne and I flew to Atlanta to see my new niece. My youngest sister, Ashley, had her first baby, a girl, Ansley Brooke. I had to visit! She is perfect and beautiful. It was a fun trip. The time spend with my sisters was perfect. We wished Kristi could have joined us, maybe next time.
We spent a long Memorial Day weekend camping with friends. It snowed, hailed and blew horribly for a day and a half. But the rest of warm and fun. Great friends, yummy food, warm lake. Fun fun weekend!
In July, we spent a week in Idaho for Thomas' family reunion. Just his mom and step dad, her 12 kids, 11 spouses, and 36 grandkids. Yes, 60 of us! It was amazing. His sisters did a fantastic job at organizing the whole thing. Enough plans to keep everyone busy, but not to much that we didn't have time to relax and socialize. The kids had a great time getting to know their cousins again. We hiked, played and watched fireworks. Set off illegal ones and watched the parade. It was a really fun week. Wish we could do it more often. But with that many people, we'll just be happy for the time we got!
In August, Thomas, Chey and I spent 3 days, dressed as Pioneers on a Pioneer Handcart trek. I was lucky enough to be a photographer for the trip. I walked around just snapping pictures the whole time. Perfect! Cheyanne was put in a wonderful family, with the perfect "Ma" and "Pa" for her. She had a great time and made several new and life long friends. Thomas had been working on this for almost the whole previous year. He was on the logistics committee and had been planning and planning and planning for months. And all their planning paid off. It was perfect! There were parts that were hard and at times we were dirty and tired, but we learned so much about ourselves and the sacrifices the pioneers made in their trek west, so many years ago. I am thankful we had the opportunity to experience this!
Yeah, I know, not to much other stuff, but we're a busy family. We'll take what little time we can to get away,
Just Trying To Keep Up!
Thursday, January 3, 2013
A New Year
I have failed, for the second year in a row, to get out Christmas cards. It is something I have done since Chey was brand new, 15 years ago. But I guess the madness of 3 busy teenagers and 2 busy boys, has taken over. Maybe I can try for Valentines cards this year, but no promises!
So here is our family up date, for two years. Find a comfy chair, grab a snack and a drink, this could take a while!
Thomas:
He has been working for Gestamp Solar for almost 3 years now. It has been a huge change of pace for him and brought many new adventures and challenges. He has learned many things and continues to learn more all the time. He is the Senior Construction Manager for North America and is also taking on Head of Operation and Maintenance. He would love to hand over construction stuff, but they aren't quite ready to let him give it up completely. He travels a lot, and fortunately, I have been able to tag along on a few trips. He's mainly been on the west coast. But he is starting to venture farther out with trips to Colorado, Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico and soon, Vermont. Oh and did I forget, SPAIN! Yes, he spent 2 weeks in Spain for some O&M training. That is where the main office is located. And yes, I hope to be able to join him next time he goes to Spain, or Puerto Rico.
He is currently serving as the Ward Mission leader at church and stays busy, keeping the missionaries busy and teaching classes. He is currently coaching Kallie and Kassie's rec league basketball team, with the help of 4 very talented older teenagers. This is the 6th year he has coached or assistant coached one the girls team. Even though he is out of town often, he really enjoys coaching and just can't say no.
Cheyanne (15) is a sophomore this year. Let's start back a ways. She graduated from 8th grade in 2011. She played 8th grade basketball, volleyball and track. She really started to gain her confidence and strength that year and hasn't looked back or slowed down since. She spent that summer at girls camp, backpacking, and attending EFY at BYU. She loved it! She also worked hard all summer before her freshman year with the high school volleyball team. And it paid off. She was one, of two freshman that made the JV team. She worked hard and proved her self and had lots of playing time in every game throughout the season. She started basketball, the day after VB ended and worked just as hard. Again, was one of two freshman on JV. She earned a starting position about 1/4 way through the season and finished stronger than we ever imagined. She lead the team in points, rebounds, free throw percentage and shooting percentage. This earned the teams most improved player award. The day after BB ended, track started. She focused on her passion, hurdles! She knew she loved 100 hurdles and was then introduced to 300 hurdles. And she loved that even more. It is a very hard race and very few girls even attempt it. In fact, she is the only one at our school in recent years to run it. She also continued with high jump and eventually picked up long jump. She did great in all events. She qualified for the district championship meet in all 4 events. Unfortunately the week before the district meet, she severely sprained her ankle in warm ups. Despite staying off it all week and doing everything she could to let it heal, she was far from her strongest at the district meet. She missed qualifying for state by 1 or 2 spots in all 4 events. It was heart breaking. But she knew she had done all she could and it just wasn't meant to be that year. She had earned enough points in league meets and placed high enough in the district meets to earn her varsity letter. We were so proud of her!
She thoroughly enjoyed her freshman year, making many new close friends. Mostly older kids, because that was who she was around the most. She was in advanced English, advanced Math and leadership. She was chosen the most athletic freshman girl for the year.
Summer between 9-10th grade was crazy for her. VB continued as soon as track ended. Along with HS VB, she spent as much time as she could at the VB club in Carson, skill training every chance she got. She also played in a few basketball tournaments for the high school varsity coach. She spent a week at Utah State University for EFY, and loved it. She spent a week at girls camp, 4 days at VB camp and 3 days on a Pioneer Trek. And as much time at the beach in Tahoe as possible. We almost always had friends of her tag along and most of them we consider family now. She has been blessed with great friends.
Start of sophomore year: Again, her hard work paid off and she, along with two other soph, made the Varsity VB team. About 1/4 into the season she earned a starting position. She played hard and had an amazing season. Their team went to playoffs and had a great season.
Basketball season is upon us now. And yes, she made Varsity. She earned a starting position from the beginning. So far she is doing awesome and has high score in 8 of their 10 games.
School has been a bit harder this year and she is having to learn how to prioritize her time. She is still in leadership and volunteers every afternoon she doesn't have practice. She has also started lifting weights on her "free" days.
As you can see, her life revolves around her love of sports, and she wouldn't have it any other way! We are so proud of all her hard work and dedication. She is a very sweet and energetic girl. She has a huge heart and loves helping others whenever there is a need.
Phew.... Ready for the next ones...
Kallie and Kassie (13), I'll do them together, because they do just about everything together. They have grown into amazing young women the last few years. And when I say grown, I mean it. They are currently, almost 6 foot tall. And no, they are not done growing. It was a very happy day almost 18 months ago, when they passed up their big sister, and they haven't slowed down since. The last (2011) Christmas letter would of had them finishing up their 6th grade year, participating in track. They weren't the fastest or the strongest but they always tried their hardest and improved at every meet. They played rec league basketball that winter also and really started to catch onto the game. Kassie was inducted into National Junior Honor Society that spring. Kallie would have been also, if she had turned her papers in on time. Oops, lesson learned. That summer before 7th grade they went to their first year of girls camp and had a fabulous time. It was a fairly low key summer for them and much time was spent in the pool, on bikes and at the lake. They also, happily looked after their little brothers, often, while mom was busy running with the oldest child. During their 7th grade year they played on the 7th grade basketball team, volleyball team, rec league basketball and continued with track. They were both in the leadership class at school and loved planning and organizing assemblies, spirit weeks, dances and various fund raisers for charity. Their other loves are books, books and more books. We can't keep enough books around. They read most anything they can get their hands on. Their favorite is fantasy, but will read pretty much everything. They also really started enjoying art this year. They had a great art teacher and they both really excelled artistically. At the end of their 7th grade year, they left school a few days early and flew to Atlanta GA to help out their aunt with her new baby girl, Ansley. They spent 3 weeks there being mommy helpers and learning mommy skills. They loved it. That summer was full of girls camp and working out with the high school VB team. 8th grade year started with basketball. And to much of every ones surprise, they had grown about 3 inches over the summer and now towered over their whole team. They were still figuring out how to keep everything coordinated and working together but they had a fun season. That brings us to now. They are just getting started on their last year of rec ball, with their dad and Chey and 3 of her friends as coaches. They are the tallest in the league and not really looking forward to playing against much shorter boys. We keep reassuring them, things will change in high school and there will be people taller than them. Just be patient. They've enjoyed their classes this year. Both are in honors English and honors math. They are taking the high school Algebra final to get high school credit for their class this year. Both have straight A's and are again loving their leadership class. Kallie did get her Junior Honor Society papers turned in last spring, so she is now participating in that group with her sister also.
Their new found love this last year is baking. They became quite well known around the high school for their cookies. Many many requests were made for cookies. You know, because it helped them play better on game days! :) They bake very often and love to try new things. They made their first apple pie, with crust from scratch (granma's recipe) this fall. It was yummy. They have also really developed a love for volleyball. After attending many club sessions over the summer, we decided to let them tryout for a club team. They both were placed in the top 14 team (14 black) and have loved building their skills there. Due to our crazy schedule with them and other kids, we decided against having them travel with the team. It was a hard decision to make, but they are still on the team, practicing 3 times and week and ready to travel if the team happens to be short for a tournament. They will also start 8th grade VB as soon as we get back from Christmas break.
Ok, 3 down, 2 to go!
Broc, Broc, Broc. (10) He has really grown up the last few years. He's no longer my little boy, but growing into a sweet confident young man. He was placed in a 3/4th split class last year. It was a great place for him as he learned more as one of the 3rd graders and they were pretty much caught up to the 4th grade curriculum by the end of the year. Because of that, he was placed with the same teacher this year for 4th grade and she has been able to keep him engaged and learning. He has straight A's and really enjoys school. He, like the girls, lives for sports. The beginning of the year starts off with rec basketball. Last year he was bored silly playing in his 3/4th grade age group. He enjoyed it but was easily frustrated with other kids and the smaller court and lower baskets. This year he was asked to move up into the 5/6th grade league, even though he is only in 4th grade. It should be a much more enjoyable season for him. After basketball, baseball starts. He has gotten much stronger and accurate the last few years. His knowledge of the game comes easy now. He no longer needs to think about where the ball should be thrown or if he should steal or hold. Its all second nature. His pitching improved a lot this last year and he had a great pitching season. He has a pretty easy summer. Swimming, biking, building forts, entertaining his brother and his favorite summer activity, cliff jumping. Okay, not quite cliffs, just tall rocks at Lake Tahoe. We're thankful he is a strong swimmer. He is usually off with the teenagers, showing them the best and highest places to jump. He loves hanging out with the teenagers and they love him. He has become pretty comfortable around the high school kids and they love him too. We are blessed with great teenage friends that are a great influence on him.
He started football this fall and found his new passion. He loved it from the start. He was a natural and his coaches loved him. The high school boys argued over who got to coach him at camps and who could teach him the most. It was a really fun fall. We loved watching his games and seeing the joy in his face when we made a big tackle. It's safe to say, he is a player for life!
He also continues his cub scouts rankings. He has earned all he can so far and several "optional" merit badges. Because of sports, he has to spend a lot of his free time working on scouts because he rarely makes it to pack meetings. But he manages to do everything that is required and then some. We are so proud at the great boy he is becoming. He is a hard worker and is learning quickly how that hard work pays off.
Last one... well kind of...
Nait! (4), almost 5! I love this kid. He has the biggest, funniest personality of all our kids. He is such a tease and a lover. He is old for his years and smarter than he will ever let on. He has become accustomed to always having teenagers around and that is who he is most comfortable with. He loves his teenagers and knows exactly how to make them love him back. He is a complete mommy's boy and takes full advantage. He started his sports career this last spring with T-ball. We thought he was going to love it and he was excited to start. But something was just off. He didn't play like we knew he could, he didn't talk much and was really reserved. We soon found out that he was annoyed by kids his own age. He told me they bugged him and they acted silly. So t-ball was quite annoying for him, but thankfully he had great coaches and they helped him through the silliness. He still loves the game, just needs to get used to the kids. He also thoroughly enjoyed Broc's FB season and is anxiously waiting to get old enough to play himself. He plays basketball with the big kids and really working on his dribbling skills. The girls have also been teaching him the finer points of volleyball, just in case there are boys teams here by the time he gets older!
He spent last school year attending a preschool one afternoon a week. That was enough for mom. He also did a few sessions of swim lessons. But mostly he was mom's car companion. We drove to and from schools, practices, games and activities. He is the best little fan in the stands. He quickly learned the basics for each sport and was able to follow along and cheer on his siblings at the appropriate times. Eventually he would crash and took many naps in the bleachers.
He loved the beach time this summer and finally got all the way in when the lake water warmed up. Not the fish that his siblings are, he did get better the warmer the water got.
So this school year. his last year before real school, we decided we better get him used to kids his own age. So his is attending preschool 4 afternoons a week and has been in back to back swim lessons since September. We also volunteered to watch a little boy his age 3 days a week. They have become great friends and enjoy all their school and swimming together. We are hoping he will be a little more tolerant of the other 5 year olds behavior this spring!
He is crazy about Transformers, Star Wars, Avengers and anything super hero-ish. He can play pretend games with pretend characters for hours, all by himself. His imagination keeps us all entertained. We very often have Optimus Prime at the dinner table, or Bumblebee camping with us. Occasionally Megatron would be in the lake and we'd have to hide under towels. His imagination never slows down. It is fun to see how his mind works because he is so good at storytelling. He is the spoiled baby brother, I never thought I would have! And I love every minute of it!
Well, that is it for our kids, but we have an addition for the year.
Maria (15) came to live with us this October. She is a foreign exchange student from Mexico City, Mexico. She is sweet and funny and kind and patient and loving and generous and silly. She has blended into our family seamlessly. We love her like one of our own. She is super supportive with all the kids activities. She enjoys sitting back and watching the occasional chaos unravel.
She has one older brother at home, but many close cousins, aunts and uncles. So our loud large family wasn't too over whelming for her. She decided to join the family sport craze and tried out for basketball. She is a starter on the freshman team and is learning alot. She picked up on it quickly and is enjoying her team. She loves the differences in our public school from her private school in Mexico. She took a huge jump out of her comfort zone and asked me to dye her hair. With her mothers permission, we added a dark red tint to her beautiful black hair. This is something completely unacceptable in her school back home. We assured her it will wash out before then, and she is loving her rebel look. We have enjoyed showing her new things and new places. We are excited for the rest of the school year and hope we can show her many more things. We are so so grateful she came to live with us. She as found a special place in each of our hearts and will forever be a part of our family!
I guess that only leaves me. Well, I drive. A lot! And do a lot of laundry. But I love every minute of it, well maybe not the laundry, but the driving, I love. I love the freedom I have to be able to make to every single game possible. I love sitting through practices and watching new skills emerge and develop. I love seeing my children form bonds with their teammates and learn respect for their coaches. I love when they see their hard work and dedication pay off. I love spending my time in freezing cold wind, rain and snow watching baseball, football or a track meet. I love sitting through 7 hours of games, so we can support all their friends team too. I love traveling to over night tournaments and being there for a team who looks for me. I love taking pictures! Lots and lots and lots of pictures. Of all my kids and all my claimed and unclaimed kids that call me mom. I feel like the luckiest mom in the world. I love these years with them and know they will pass way to quickly. So in the time I have I will drive and sit and take pictures, as much as I possibly can.
I do other things too. I teach the adult Sunday School class as church. It's been a challenge to prepare a lesson for people who, most have much more scriptural knowledge than I do. But I have learned a lot and actually enjoy teaching, something I never thought I would say about this calling. I help out the booster club at Broc's school as much as possible. I'm a popcorn maker, every Friday. It is a fun time to spend with younger kids. I've started lifting weights and getting my mommy body back in shape. So far I am happy with my progress. Almost back to my pre-Chey size. Not sure that I will ever get completely back to what I was before, but I am happy with the progress I've made.
Life is good. It is crazy, chaotic, insane, busy, fun and emotional sometimes, but is it good. I feel so blessed to have the wonderful life we have and have the opportunities our children have to choose their passions in life and go after them! The quiet Sunday afternoons at our house are our treasure. It's the time we've set aside for rest. For family. For recuperation.
I am thankful for the knowledge and our testimonies of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I know we are blessed as we follow his example and live our lives striving to be like him.
I am thankful for family. They make me happy.
Welcome to our madness. We love it and are excited for another year of it!
So here is our family up date, for two years. Find a comfy chair, grab a snack and a drink, this could take a while!
Thomas:
He has been working for Gestamp Solar for almost 3 years now. It has been a huge change of pace for him and brought many new adventures and challenges. He has learned many things and continues to learn more all the time. He is the Senior Construction Manager for North America and is also taking on Head of Operation and Maintenance. He would love to hand over construction stuff, but they aren't quite ready to let him give it up completely. He travels a lot, and fortunately, I have been able to tag along on a few trips. He's mainly been on the west coast. But he is starting to venture farther out with trips to Colorado, Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico and soon, Vermont. Oh and did I forget, SPAIN! Yes, he spent 2 weeks in Spain for some O&M training. That is where the main office is located. And yes, I hope to be able to join him next time he goes to Spain, or Puerto Rico.
He is currently serving as the Ward Mission leader at church and stays busy, keeping the missionaries busy and teaching classes. He is currently coaching Kallie and Kassie's rec league basketball team, with the help of 4 very talented older teenagers. This is the 6th year he has coached or assistant coached one the girls team. Even though he is out of town often, he really enjoys coaching and just can't say no.
Cheyanne (15) is a sophomore this year. Let's start back a ways. She graduated from 8th grade in 2011. She played 8th grade basketball, volleyball and track. She really started to gain her confidence and strength that year and hasn't looked back or slowed down since. She spent that summer at girls camp, backpacking, and attending EFY at BYU. She loved it! She also worked hard all summer before her freshman year with the high school volleyball team. And it paid off. She was one, of two freshman that made the JV team. She worked hard and proved her self and had lots of playing time in every game throughout the season. She started basketball, the day after VB ended and worked just as hard. Again, was one of two freshman on JV. She earned a starting position about 1/4 way through the season and finished stronger than we ever imagined. She lead the team in points, rebounds, free throw percentage and shooting percentage. This earned the teams most improved player award. The day after BB ended, track started. She focused on her passion, hurdles! She knew she loved 100 hurdles and was then introduced to 300 hurdles. And she loved that even more. It is a very hard race and very few girls even attempt it. In fact, she is the only one at our school in recent years to run it. She also continued with high jump and eventually picked up long jump. She did great in all events. She qualified for the district championship meet in all 4 events. Unfortunately the week before the district meet, she severely sprained her ankle in warm ups. Despite staying off it all week and doing everything she could to let it heal, she was far from her strongest at the district meet. She missed qualifying for state by 1 or 2 spots in all 4 events. It was heart breaking. But she knew she had done all she could and it just wasn't meant to be that year. She had earned enough points in league meets and placed high enough in the district meets to earn her varsity letter. We were so proud of her!
She thoroughly enjoyed her freshman year, making many new close friends. Mostly older kids, because that was who she was around the most. She was in advanced English, advanced Math and leadership. She was chosen the most athletic freshman girl for the year.
Summer between 9-10th grade was crazy for her. VB continued as soon as track ended. Along with HS VB, she spent as much time as she could at the VB club in Carson, skill training every chance she got. She also played in a few basketball tournaments for the high school varsity coach. She spent a week at Utah State University for EFY, and loved it. She spent a week at girls camp, 4 days at VB camp and 3 days on a Pioneer Trek. And as much time at the beach in Tahoe as possible. We almost always had friends of her tag along and most of them we consider family now. She has been blessed with great friends.
Start of sophomore year: Again, her hard work paid off and she, along with two other soph, made the Varsity VB team. About 1/4 into the season she earned a starting position. She played hard and had an amazing season. Their team went to playoffs and had a great season.
Basketball season is upon us now. And yes, she made Varsity. She earned a starting position from the beginning. So far she is doing awesome and has high score in 8 of their 10 games.
School has been a bit harder this year and she is having to learn how to prioritize her time. She is still in leadership and volunteers every afternoon she doesn't have practice. She has also started lifting weights on her "free" days.
As you can see, her life revolves around her love of sports, and she wouldn't have it any other way! We are so proud of all her hard work and dedication. She is a very sweet and energetic girl. She has a huge heart and loves helping others whenever there is a need.
Phew.... Ready for the next ones...
Kallie and Kassie (13), I'll do them together, because they do just about everything together. They have grown into amazing young women the last few years. And when I say grown, I mean it. They are currently, almost 6 foot tall. And no, they are not done growing. It was a very happy day almost 18 months ago, when they passed up their big sister, and they haven't slowed down since. The last (2011) Christmas letter would of had them finishing up their 6th grade year, participating in track. They weren't the fastest or the strongest but they always tried their hardest and improved at every meet. They played rec league basketball that winter also and really started to catch onto the game. Kassie was inducted into National Junior Honor Society that spring. Kallie would have been also, if she had turned her papers in on time. Oops, lesson learned. That summer before 7th grade they went to their first year of girls camp and had a fabulous time. It was a fairly low key summer for them and much time was spent in the pool, on bikes and at the lake. They also, happily looked after their little brothers, often, while mom was busy running with the oldest child. During their 7th grade year they played on the 7th grade basketball team, volleyball team, rec league basketball and continued with track. They were both in the leadership class at school and loved planning and organizing assemblies, spirit weeks, dances and various fund raisers for charity. Their other loves are books, books and more books. We can't keep enough books around. They read most anything they can get their hands on. Their favorite is fantasy, but will read pretty much everything. They also really started enjoying art this year. They had a great art teacher and they both really excelled artistically. At the end of their 7th grade year, they left school a few days early and flew to Atlanta GA to help out their aunt with her new baby girl, Ansley. They spent 3 weeks there being mommy helpers and learning mommy skills. They loved it. That summer was full of girls camp and working out with the high school VB team. 8th grade year started with basketball. And to much of every ones surprise, they had grown about 3 inches over the summer and now towered over their whole team. They were still figuring out how to keep everything coordinated and working together but they had a fun season. That brings us to now. They are just getting started on their last year of rec ball, with their dad and Chey and 3 of her friends as coaches. They are the tallest in the league and not really looking forward to playing against much shorter boys. We keep reassuring them, things will change in high school and there will be people taller than them. Just be patient. They've enjoyed their classes this year. Both are in honors English and honors math. They are taking the high school Algebra final to get high school credit for their class this year. Both have straight A's and are again loving their leadership class. Kallie did get her Junior Honor Society papers turned in last spring, so she is now participating in that group with her sister also.
Their new found love this last year is baking. They became quite well known around the high school for their cookies. Many many requests were made for cookies. You know, because it helped them play better on game days! :) They bake very often and love to try new things. They made their first apple pie, with crust from scratch (granma's recipe) this fall. It was yummy. They have also really developed a love for volleyball. After attending many club sessions over the summer, we decided to let them tryout for a club team. They both were placed in the top 14 team (14 black) and have loved building their skills there. Due to our crazy schedule with them and other kids, we decided against having them travel with the team. It was a hard decision to make, but they are still on the team, practicing 3 times and week and ready to travel if the team happens to be short for a tournament. They will also start 8th grade VB as soon as we get back from Christmas break.
Ok, 3 down, 2 to go!
Broc, Broc, Broc. (10) He has really grown up the last few years. He's no longer my little boy, but growing into a sweet confident young man. He was placed in a 3/4th split class last year. It was a great place for him as he learned more as one of the 3rd graders and they were pretty much caught up to the 4th grade curriculum by the end of the year. Because of that, he was placed with the same teacher this year for 4th grade and she has been able to keep him engaged and learning. He has straight A's and really enjoys school. He, like the girls, lives for sports. The beginning of the year starts off with rec basketball. Last year he was bored silly playing in his 3/4th grade age group. He enjoyed it but was easily frustrated with other kids and the smaller court and lower baskets. This year he was asked to move up into the 5/6th grade league, even though he is only in 4th grade. It should be a much more enjoyable season for him. After basketball, baseball starts. He has gotten much stronger and accurate the last few years. His knowledge of the game comes easy now. He no longer needs to think about where the ball should be thrown or if he should steal or hold. Its all second nature. His pitching improved a lot this last year and he had a great pitching season. He has a pretty easy summer. Swimming, biking, building forts, entertaining his brother and his favorite summer activity, cliff jumping. Okay, not quite cliffs, just tall rocks at Lake Tahoe. We're thankful he is a strong swimmer. He is usually off with the teenagers, showing them the best and highest places to jump. He loves hanging out with the teenagers and they love him. He has become pretty comfortable around the high school kids and they love him too. We are blessed with great teenage friends that are a great influence on him.
He started football this fall and found his new passion. He loved it from the start. He was a natural and his coaches loved him. The high school boys argued over who got to coach him at camps and who could teach him the most. It was a really fun fall. We loved watching his games and seeing the joy in his face when we made a big tackle. It's safe to say, he is a player for life!
He also continues his cub scouts rankings. He has earned all he can so far and several "optional" merit badges. Because of sports, he has to spend a lot of his free time working on scouts because he rarely makes it to pack meetings. But he manages to do everything that is required and then some. We are so proud at the great boy he is becoming. He is a hard worker and is learning quickly how that hard work pays off.
Last one... well kind of...
Nait! (4), almost 5! I love this kid. He has the biggest, funniest personality of all our kids. He is such a tease and a lover. He is old for his years and smarter than he will ever let on. He has become accustomed to always having teenagers around and that is who he is most comfortable with. He loves his teenagers and knows exactly how to make them love him back. He is a complete mommy's boy and takes full advantage. He started his sports career this last spring with T-ball. We thought he was going to love it and he was excited to start. But something was just off. He didn't play like we knew he could, he didn't talk much and was really reserved. We soon found out that he was annoyed by kids his own age. He told me they bugged him and they acted silly. So t-ball was quite annoying for him, but thankfully he had great coaches and they helped him through the silliness. He still loves the game, just needs to get used to the kids. He also thoroughly enjoyed Broc's FB season and is anxiously waiting to get old enough to play himself. He plays basketball with the big kids and really working on his dribbling skills. The girls have also been teaching him the finer points of volleyball, just in case there are boys teams here by the time he gets older!
He spent last school year attending a preschool one afternoon a week. That was enough for mom. He also did a few sessions of swim lessons. But mostly he was mom's car companion. We drove to and from schools, practices, games and activities. He is the best little fan in the stands. He quickly learned the basics for each sport and was able to follow along and cheer on his siblings at the appropriate times. Eventually he would crash and took many naps in the bleachers.
He loved the beach time this summer and finally got all the way in when the lake water warmed up. Not the fish that his siblings are, he did get better the warmer the water got.
So this school year. his last year before real school, we decided we better get him used to kids his own age. So his is attending preschool 4 afternoons a week and has been in back to back swim lessons since September. We also volunteered to watch a little boy his age 3 days a week. They have become great friends and enjoy all their school and swimming together. We are hoping he will be a little more tolerant of the other 5 year olds behavior this spring!
He is crazy about Transformers, Star Wars, Avengers and anything super hero-ish. He can play pretend games with pretend characters for hours, all by himself. His imagination keeps us all entertained. We very often have Optimus Prime at the dinner table, or Bumblebee camping with us. Occasionally Megatron would be in the lake and we'd have to hide under towels. His imagination never slows down. It is fun to see how his mind works because he is so good at storytelling. He is the spoiled baby brother, I never thought I would have! And I love every minute of it!
Well, that is it for our kids, but we have an addition for the year.
Maria (15) came to live with us this October. She is a foreign exchange student from Mexico City, Mexico. She is sweet and funny and kind and patient and loving and generous and silly. She has blended into our family seamlessly. We love her like one of our own. She is super supportive with all the kids activities. She enjoys sitting back and watching the occasional chaos unravel.
She has one older brother at home, but many close cousins, aunts and uncles. So our loud large family wasn't too over whelming for her. She decided to join the family sport craze and tried out for basketball. She is a starter on the freshman team and is learning alot. She picked up on it quickly and is enjoying her team. She loves the differences in our public school from her private school in Mexico. She took a huge jump out of her comfort zone and asked me to dye her hair. With her mothers permission, we added a dark red tint to her beautiful black hair. This is something completely unacceptable in her school back home. We assured her it will wash out before then, and she is loving her rebel look. We have enjoyed showing her new things and new places. We are excited for the rest of the school year and hope we can show her many more things. We are so so grateful she came to live with us. She as found a special place in each of our hearts and will forever be a part of our family!
I guess that only leaves me. Well, I drive. A lot! And do a lot of laundry. But I love every minute of it, well maybe not the laundry, but the driving, I love. I love the freedom I have to be able to make to every single game possible. I love sitting through practices and watching new skills emerge and develop. I love seeing my children form bonds with their teammates and learn respect for their coaches. I love when they see their hard work and dedication pay off. I love spending my time in freezing cold wind, rain and snow watching baseball, football or a track meet. I love sitting through 7 hours of games, so we can support all their friends team too. I love traveling to over night tournaments and being there for a team who looks for me. I love taking pictures! Lots and lots and lots of pictures. Of all my kids and all my claimed and unclaimed kids that call me mom. I feel like the luckiest mom in the world. I love these years with them and know they will pass way to quickly. So in the time I have I will drive and sit and take pictures, as much as I possibly can.
I do other things too. I teach the adult Sunday School class as church. It's been a challenge to prepare a lesson for people who, most have much more scriptural knowledge than I do. But I have learned a lot and actually enjoy teaching, something I never thought I would say about this calling. I help out the booster club at Broc's school as much as possible. I'm a popcorn maker, every Friday. It is a fun time to spend with younger kids. I've started lifting weights and getting my mommy body back in shape. So far I am happy with my progress. Almost back to my pre-Chey size. Not sure that I will ever get completely back to what I was before, but I am happy with the progress I've made.
Life is good. It is crazy, chaotic, insane, busy, fun and emotional sometimes, but is it good. I feel so blessed to have the wonderful life we have and have the opportunities our children have to choose their passions in life and go after them! The quiet Sunday afternoons at our house are our treasure. It's the time we've set aside for rest. For family. For recuperation.
I am thankful for the knowledge and our testimonies of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I know we are blessed as we follow his example and live our lives striving to be like him.
I am thankful for family. They make me happy.
Welcome to our madness. We love it and are excited for another year of it!
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Attempt!
So one of my oldest and dearest friends has inspired me to start posting again. I will promise nothing! But I will make an attempt. Life is crazy busy, but we wouldn't have it any other way.
But right now, I'm suppose to be at Broc's school in 20 minutes and I still haven't showered, so my first attempt to update with real info will have to wait!
Hopefully I'll be back real soon!
But right now, I'm suppose to be at Broc's school in 20 minutes and I still haven't showered, so my first attempt to update with real info will have to wait!
Hopefully I'll be back real soon!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Missed a few things
oops! I kinda missed a few of the really important things that have happened lately.
Kristi got married! It was a wonderful day. It was snowy and cold but they are so happy and beautiful together. The wedding was small, in Rob's house. Kristi looked fabulous and is so very happy. We all aer loving having Rob and Teresa in the family!
Broc turned 8. I love my little man. He is so responsible and helpful. He still loves me and tells me everyday with hugs, kisses and words. He is a wonderful example to so many people. He does his best to make the best choices everyday. He loves his brother and sisters and is happy all the time.
Kristi got married! It was a wonderful day. It was snowy and cold but they are so happy and beautiful together. The wedding was small, in Rob's house. Kristi looked fabulous and is so very happy. We all aer loving having Rob and Teresa in the family!
Broc turned 8. I love my little man. He is so responsible and helpful. He still loves me and tells me everyday with hugs, kisses and words. He is a wonderful example to so many people. He does his best to make the best choices everyday. He loves his brother and sisters and is happy all the time.
He chose to get baptized. We held the baptism in Nevada City Thanksgiving weekend. We had so many friends and family there. I was so touched that so many people came in the snow and through the mountains. It was a wonderful service and Broc was beaming. As was I, a very happy mama.
The drive home that trip was amazing. Bright sun and feet and feet and fresh new snow. We had to stop to play, just for a minute!
December
So many things are happening around here. We've been swamped with school, sports (VB and Basketball this time), church, Christmas fun etc. But it seems like we are always having fun and we are usually together, so that makes all the madness worth it.
Thomas' traveling has slowed a little bit. He is really learning and doing more and more at work, which is good. We are extremely grateful for a steady job and regular paycheck. This time last year, we had neither. Add to that he enjoys his job and is learning new things all the time, we are really thankful!
The kids are all doing well in school. Chey has started VB and all 4 of them will start city rec basketball in January. We love staying busy, as long as I can keep up.
Our vehicles have begun to protest the busy-ness. But what else is expected when you go as much as we do.
As of right now, everyone is home, enjoying our break from school, sports, and many other responsibilities. It is so very nice to sit at home in our PJ's all day, playing games, eating and having everyone get along. Hence the time to up date the blog!!
As we get closer to Christmas, it makes us even more thankful for all the may blessing we have. Not just our family, but their health, our home, a job, great friends, wonderful supportive family and so many other things. We wish all of our friends and family a safe, warm and love filled Christmas.
Thomas' traveling has slowed a little bit. He is really learning and doing more and more at work, which is good. We are extremely grateful for a steady job and regular paycheck. This time last year, we had neither. Add to that he enjoys his job and is learning new things all the time, we are really thankful!
The kids are all doing well in school. Chey has started VB and all 4 of them will start city rec basketball in January. We love staying busy, as long as I can keep up.
Our vehicles have begun to protest the busy-ness. But what else is expected when you go as much as we do.
As of right now, everyone is home, enjoying our break from school, sports, and many other responsibilities. It is so very nice to sit at home in our PJ's all day, playing games, eating and having everyone get along. Hence the time to up date the blog!!
As we get closer to Christmas, it makes us even more thankful for all the may blessing we have. Not just our family, but their health, our home, a job, great friends, wonderful supportive family and so many other things. We wish all of our friends and family a safe, warm and love filled Christmas.
Our Little Family
Thanks so much to Lynda at Blue Lake Photography. You are the best!
bluelakephotos.com
Monday, November 8, 2010
Catching Up!
Yep, so it has been a really long time since I have been on here. I really wanted to do better over the summer, but the summer fun got the best of me and I didn't keep anything caught up. I will try to do a quick version of the last few months.
August.
Chey and I spent a week at Girls Camp. It was awesome. We had a great time. Thomas's mom came and stayed with the other kids for the week. They loved having grandma here.
Chey and Sabrina turned 13. Before Sabrina moved to DC we had a Farm campout slumber party for them. All girls involved had a great time. We miss her terribly around here!
Broc started fall baseball. He loves baseball! I am asst. coaching his team. It is great to work with such fun kids!
We spent as much time as possible up at the lake. That is the hardest part of school starting, that means lake time is over for the year.
School started the end of the month. Everyone was very excited.
September.
We spent Labor day weekend with lots of family at our house. My niece Amelia was baptized that weekend. My older sister had her second date with a man we know from Carson. We all went out shooting and had a great time.
The next weekend was Dad's car show. Ashley flew in for the week. It was great having mom, dad and all 4 sisters working the registration booth for the weekend. Dad raised his girls to love the Hot Rods!
Broc's games started.
Chey started 8th grade basketball.
Kallie and Kassie are running cross country.
Kristi got engaged. Yep, it was a very quick courtship, but they both knew it was right and didn't want to date long distance, so they are getting married. YEAH!! We all love Rob and we are so happy for them.
My cousin Julie got married. We went to the wedding in Sacramento. Lost the transmission in the van right after the wedding. With all the family around, we quickly were rescued and van picked up. We got it back 3 days later, running great!
Chey is playing great. She is starting every game and playing all but about 30 seconds of each game. She has really grown alot in her game play. So much fun to watch.
K&K are running well. They are getting better every week. They are getting more coordinated and enjoying the season.
October.
More basketball, baseball and cross country. That's what I do. Nait and I live in the van and love watching everyone do what they do.
Kids all had dentist appointments. Except Nait. He refused to let anyone close to him!
Nait started in a preschool group. He does pretty well. It is more like a structured play group. Just to give these kids others to play with. He enjoys it!
I took Chey and some friends to a UNR USU volleyball match. It was lots of fun. I am thankful she has such good friends!
We helped at the 1st annual fall carnival at the kids elementary school. It was a fun day and plenty of money was earned!
League championships tok place. K&K improved their time over the season by over 12 minutes! Chey's team took second in league and she earned the top point award. 98 points on the season, not bad for a 10 game season! Kallie was given most improved award.
We had a bridal shower for my sister. Lots of people were there. It it fun to see her so happy!
We took Avery and Broc to a UNR USU football game. The boys had a great time, so did we. It was Avery's birthday and he said it was the best birthday yet!
We skipped trick or treating and everyone was fine with that. The church trunk or treat was plenty for everyone.
November.
Parents teacher conferences were the first week. Kassie had all A's, everyone else had 1 high B and the rest A's. Everyone of them are in honors classes. Every teacher loves them. I was really proud of the things that were said about each of the kids. Good examples, trustworthy, hard working, kind. The list goes on and on. So proud.
Two of Broc's best friends were baptized. He was so excited for him. Just a few more weeks until it's his turn. How are my kids getting so old so fast?
Well that was pretty much the quicky update. Kristi is getting married on the 20th. We are all excited for the whole family. Chey is heading to DC to stay with Sabrina for a week, over Thanksgiving. She is super excited to see Bri. Thomas got a lot of grass planted in the backyard. Yippee!! The "puppies" Mo and Yuba are huge. At just 7 months, they are bigger than most full grown labs. Yuba is a gentle giant. They are both sweet and wonderful.
As for Thomas and I, we are just enjoying each day. Work is good. Kids are healthy, smart and helpful. I'll try and get pictures up. And really try to update more often.
August.
Chey and I spent a week at Girls Camp. It was awesome. We had a great time. Thomas's mom came and stayed with the other kids for the week. They loved having grandma here.
Chey and Sabrina turned 13. Before Sabrina moved to DC we had a Farm campout slumber party for them. All girls involved had a great time. We miss her terribly around here!
Broc started fall baseball. He loves baseball! I am asst. coaching his team. It is great to work with such fun kids!
We spent as much time as possible up at the lake. That is the hardest part of school starting, that means lake time is over for the year.
School started the end of the month. Everyone was very excited.
September.
We spent Labor day weekend with lots of family at our house. My niece Amelia was baptized that weekend. My older sister had her second date with a man we know from Carson. We all went out shooting and had a great time.
The next weekend was Dad's car show. Ashley flew in for the week. It was great having mom, dad and all 4 sisters working the registration booth for the weekend. Dad raised his girls to love the Hot Rods!
Broc's games started.
Chey started 8th grade basketball.
Kallie and Kassie are running cross country.
Kristi got engaged. Yep, it was a very quick courtship, but they both knew it was right and didn't want to date long distance, so they are getting married. YEAH!! We all love Rob and we are so happy for them.
My cousin Julie got married. We went to the wedding in Sacramento. Lost the transmission in the van right after the wedding. With all the family around, we quickly were rescued and van picked up. We got it back 3 days later, running great!
Chey is playing great. She is starting every game and playing all but about 30 seconds of each game. She has really grown alot in her game play. So much fun to watch.
K&K are running well. They are getting better every week. They are getting more coordinated and enjoying the season.
October.
More basketball, baseball and cross country. That's what I do. Nait and I live in the van and love watching everyone do what they do.
Kids all had dentist appointments. Except Nait. He refused to let anyone close to him!
Nait started in a preschool group. He does pretty well. It is more like a structured play group. Just to give these kids others to play with. He enjoys it!
I took Chey and some friends to a UNR USU volleyball match. It was lots of fun. I am thankful she has such good friends!
We helped at the 1st annual fall carnival at the kids elementary school. It was a fun day and plenty of money was earned!
League championships tok place. K&K improved their time over the season by over 12 minutes! Chey's team took second in league and she earned the top point award. 98 points on the season, not bad for a 10 game season! Kallie was given most improved award.
We had a bridal shower for my sister. Lots of people were there. It it fun to see her so happy!
We took Avery and Broc to a UNR USU football game. The boys had a great time, so did we. It was Avery's birthday and he said it was the best birthday yet!
We skipped trick or treating and everyone was fine with that. The church trunk or treat was plenty for everyone.
November.
Parents teacher conferences were the first week. Kassie had all A's, everyone else had 1 high B and the rest A's. Everyone of them are in honors classes. Every teacher loves them. I was really proud of the things that were said about each of the kids. Good examples, trustworthy, hard working, kind. The list goes on and on. So proud.
Two of Broc's best friends were baptized. He was so excited for him. Just a few more weeks until it's his turn. How are my kids getting so old so fast?
Well that was pretty much the quicky update. Kristi is getting married on the 20th. We are all excited for the whole family. Chey is heading to DC to stay with Sabrina for a week, over Thanksgiving. She is super excited to see Bri. Thomas got a lot of grass planted in the backyard. Yippee!! The "puppies" Mo and Yuba are huge. At just 7 months, they are bigger than most full grown labs. Yuba is a gentle giant. They are both sweet and wonderful.
As for Thomas and I, we are just enjoying each day. Work is good. Kids are healthy, smart and helpful. I'll try and get pictures up. And really try to update more often.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Summer - So far
So here it is, the middle of July and I have slacked on here already. So sorry. We've been keeping a pretty low profile around here. The kids have been swimming alot. Pretty much most of the day, once chores, workbooks and rooms are done. We've been to the lake several times. It is wonderful. I wish we could go everyday. The last 2 times, we've stayed for over 10 hours, and the kids don't want to leave. I think we should jsut move there for the summer!
4th of July weekend was great. We had lots of family come visit. Thomas' little brother Mark, his wife Jenna and their 2 sweet kids came for a few days on their way back to ID from Cali. It was fun to see them. We definitely don't get to see the ID crew enough. My parents, 2 sisters and their families all came also. It was a really fun weekend. We went to the same place we always go for fireworks, in Carson. It was a beautiful day. No wind, cool temperature. It was a great day. (Pictures to come.)
Since then we have been hanging around the house and lake. I've been going to camp meetings and they are getting longer, the closer we get to camp. So much to do, so little time! Our Summiteer hike is next week. I am really looking forward to that. It's been too long since I went backpacking. And this will be Thomas' first official backpacking trip. He was a spoiled farm boy scout and never packed his own gear because they all had horses to do the packing for them. And the walking for them. Hopefully he likes it and will want to go again.
His work has kept him very busy, which we have learned to never complain about work! He has work, that is enough to thankful for! Anyway, he has been flying to Vegas twice a week and now to California once a week. That won't be regular for a while yet, but, needless to say, he has been really busy.
Kids are great. Chey is officially 5' 7". K&K are 5' 3 1/2". Their all like desert weeds that never stop, even if you starve them. I've tried, but they complain too much! Broc had a minor toe surgery to remove a really nasty ingrown toenail. He was not liking the restrictions for recovery. He was suppose to stay out of the dirt, sand, pool and lake. Seriously, he's 7 and it's summer. Long story short. It only lasted 4 days and we got really good at making sure it was cleaned well every night. It probably made the recovery longer, but it is finally looking good and shows no sign of infection. Nait is enjoying having all the girls at his beckon call. He is a huge movie addict right now and usually will only watch Toy Story 1 or 2 or Cars. Occasionally he'll branch out, but those are the most viewed. He is starting to say more words, but will only say it once, then when you ask he laughs or grunts. Very stubborn. The words are easy, he just will not humor anyone that asks. I wonder where that stubborn streak came from. Must be a Strong trait!!
Thomas' nose it all healed up and looks fabulous. It is much straighter than I have ever seen it. We are still playing softball every Friday. It's been fun. We have a great entertaining team. Good friends, good times.
We'll that's the short story.
4th of July weekend was great. We had lots of family come visit. Thomas' little brother Mark, his wife Jenna and their 2 sweet kids came for a few days on their way back to ID from Cali. It was fun to see them. We definitely don't get to see the ID crew enough. My parents, 2 sisters and their families all came also. It was a really fun weekend. We went to the same place we always go for fireworks, in Carson. It was a beautiful day. No wind, cool temperature. It was a great day. (Pictures to come.)
Since then we have been hanging around the house and lake. I've been going to camp meetings and they are getting longer, the closer we get to camp. So much to do, so little time! Our Summiteer hike is next week. I am really looking forward to that. It's been too long since I went backpacking. And this will be Thomas' first official backpacking trip. He was a spoiled farm boy scout and never packed his own gear because they all had horses to do the packing for them. And the walking for them. Hopefully he likes it and will want to go again.
His work has kept him very busy, which we have learned to never complain about work! He has work, that is enough to thankful for! Anyway, he has been flying to Vegas twice a week and now to California once a week. That won't be regular for a while yet, but, needless to say, he has been really busy.
Kids are great. Chey is officially 5' 7". K&K are 5' 3 1/2". Their all like desert weeds that never stop, even if you starve them. I've tried, but they complain too much! Broc had a minor toe surgery to remove a really nasty ingrown toenail. He was not liking the restrictions for recovery. He was suppose to stay out of the dirt, sand, pool and lake. Seriously, he's 7 and it's summer. Long story short. It only lasted 4 days and we got really good at making sure it was cleaned well every night. It probably made the recovery longer, but it is finally looking good and shows no sign of infection. Nait is enjoying having all the girls at his beckon call. He is a huge movie addict right now and usually will only watch Toy Story 1 or 2 or Cars. Occasionally he'll branch out, but those are the most viewed. He is starting to say more words, but will only say it once, then when you ask he laughs or grunts. Very stubborn. The words are easy, he just will not humor anyone that asks. I wonder where that stubborn streak came from. Must be a Strong trait!!
Thomas' nose it all healed up and looks fabulous. It is much straighter than I have ever seen it. We are still playing softball every Friday. It's been fun. We have a great entertaining team. Good friends, good times.
We'll that's the short story.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Camp Outs
This last weekend we did our first separate camp outs. The YW were having a mother daughter camp out, so the boys went camping themselves. We, the girls, had a great time. There was a wonderful program Friday night. Then a very "girly" game of capture the flag. I am used to playing with boys. Enough said! The next morning we had a wonderful breakfast, cleaned up, packed up and then went on a beautiful 5 mile hike. We hike to a river coming straight from the melted snow. It was really really cold, but felt so good after hiking up to it. I have to say, I have hiked hundreds and hundreds of miles. This was not an easy hike. It was a lot of elevation change. Kallie and Kassie struggled, but they didn't give up and we all made it. They agreed that even though it was hard, it was definitely worth it!
The boys went camping down on the Walker River. The big boys like that place for the fishing. It is a little more difficult for the little kids because there is lots of brush and trees that lines get caught in. But they took them all anyway. My boys, Kleins and Fowlers took all their little kids and boys. So between the 3 dads they had 8 kids. Thankfully they all came back with only minor scraps and bruising! They all had a great time and the kids all had a chance to reel in a fish. Avery cast, set and reeled in his little tiny Tiger Trout all by himself! We moms are very thankful for wonderful daddy's!
Friday, June 25, 2010
11 Years
Happy Happy Birthday to my sweet girls. It is hard to believe it has been 11 years since Kallie and Kassie joined our family. They were so tiny and are now becoming such beautiful young women. I can't express what a unique and fabulous experience it has been raising them. The love they have for everyone and everything continues to amaze me everyday. Their smiles are so contagious and so honest. I still love to sit outside their door and listen to their conversations. They still finish each others sentences, talk in circles about several different subjects and laugh themselves silly so easily. The bond they have is amazing and wonderful. It makes most people envious. Wouldn't we all love a best friend by our side, everyday, that you never get tired of having around? They are such a special blessing to our family. I love watching them grow and learn. Love you, girlies!! 
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