Our Journey

Girls

2011-08-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

So we have been talking quite a bit lately about what the kids were like when they were babies and young. My memory is fading as there is just not enough brain cells left after 16 children for normal daily activites and remembering details from the past. I have been relying on this blog alot to tell the boys what fun things they did as babies. I know I will run into this again when the girls get a little older so I thought I would write a bit about them now for future reference.

They both love their toe nails painted and Jess calls them cutes. She always notices mine and wants hers done. Annie loves "twirly" skirts or dresses. We had a major come apart the other week when the dress I selected for her to wear was not "twirly" enough. While she was crying I dressed Jessica and then told her how cute she looked. She promptly told Annie she was cute. That made the crying worse as now Annie thought I didn't think she was the cutest. Talk about drama. We are now clear that crying and fit throwing make you Not Cute. But girlies who smile and are sweet are cute and there is not a contest on cute..... I am in trouble for the future I think.

Jess loves to sing. In Sacrament meeting she will sing along every time we sing...... we can't understand a word but everyone can hear her. Annie loves to sing too. She is getting really good at learning the words. She will hum and lead if she can't remember the words. At bed time she likes to delay going to bed by singing her primary songs. She knows mom won't shush her when she sings them.

Jessica is more of a climbing dare devil than Trever was. She is all over the place. My house was Trever proof but Jess seems to find a way to make more messes than I can get to in a day.

Annie has had her hair cut now twice by Joseph. Fortunately he only cut a little and it was easily hidden, but he really did a number on his own. It was down to the scalp in several places. He got the shortest buzz on record for all three boys.

Jessica loves Annie and wants to be a big girl too. She is constantly stripping completely to go potty...... it would be great if she knew what she was doing and was potty trained now, but no, we go sit on the potty for 10 min. wipe for 5 min. get dressed and then promptly wet or poop in the diaper.

Annie is my helper and is the easiest. Jessica can find and get into my make up or markers in a heart beat. If it is quiet she is into something. Annie likes to follow me around doing what I do. They are growing up and I am almost out of the baby stage. That comes with some relief and some sadness.

It's great to be 8

2011-03-30T15:51:00.000-07:00

Trever had a great baptism. I forgot until the last minute that I hadn't printed the program and then the computer wigged on me so we didn't have a program. It was a great program. Alyssa played the piano and G-ma Thueson conducted the music. G-ma Palmer gave the opening prayer. Brother Hancock spoke on baptism. He talked about Trever and made it very personal, even playing hangman at the beginning. Trever only had to be dunked once. He was so excited. He told his dad in the dressing room that it felt nice to be all clean. Then G-pa Thueson gave a talk on the Holy Ghost. The spirit was very strong. Jason gave a beautiful blessing when he gave Trever the gift of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph said the closing prayer. Trever chose the songs I am a Child of God, and Love at Home. It was a nice day and we had a great dinner back at the house with a house full of people. I am proud of my Trever.

Busy busy busy.

2011-03-16T13:22:00.001-07:00

I am not sure why but my pictures went on backwards. I am also not sure who still follows this blog, but I am using it as a journal of sorts so I must write what we have been up to since we adopted Annie in October. First, right before Thanksgiving 2010 Trever had appendicitis. He started with symptoms on Friday night. Monday morning I took him to the E.R . He was in so much pain that he couldn't walk. His appendix had ruptured. Ogden Regional didn't want to risk surgery on a small child when we had Primary Children's Hospital so close so Monday afternoon Trev and mom got to ride in an ambulance to Primary's. Trev had surgery that night and we spent a week there. It was a long week, but we are very grateful for such a good hospital. Then we had Thanksgiving here at our house. It was a good day. Next Jessica had tubes put in her ears. It went well, but it too was a long day. A week later Annie had her tonsils and adenoids removed. That too went really well. Girls are tough... tougher than boys. Then came Christmas. In January we had Jessica's 2nd birthday. March brought Trever's birthday and baptism. That went really well. It was a great day. He is really growing up. On March 30th we will adopt Jessica. In April we will have her sealed to our family forever. And in May, Caleb turns 12 and will receive the priesthood. In the midst of all these events, life marches on. Joseph has been learning his letters and learning how to read. Trever has been struggling with headaches. Caleb has had problems with his knees. (Patella Tracking Disorder) We have had a few illnesses this year, but not as bad as in years past. For Christmas Jason and I gave each other Le Mis tickets. We are looking forward to going to the Capitol Theatre in May, and in June the adults in Jason's family are taking a trip to Hawaii for a week. I think I have sitters for all the kids and the dog. Life is keeping us busy, but life is very good. Can't believe Caleb is getting so big. Time really does fly.
There's our Jessica.
It's great to be 8.
Ambulance rides aren't nearly as fun when you really need them.

Annah Marie

2010-12-05T20:41:00.001-08:00

October 26th Annah is legally our daughter. We had such a great day. November 6, we sealed Annie to our family for eternity. It was a beautiful day. We enjoyed the day with family and friends.
The Temple was beautiful. Annie was quite shy of everyone looking at her, but she did just fine. Her dress was made from my wedding dress, and she was so beautiful. We are unspeakably happy to have our daughter.
The sealer talked about how special the children of today are. The spirit was so strong. He talked about how blessed we are to have them a part of our family. He also talked about how we would know how to care for them and how to teach them. I need that. I know all parents are biased on their own children, but my children are so special and I love them so much. I need all the spirit can give me to help them be all they can be. Annie, thank you for being my princess.

Kids

2010-10-18T12:44:00.000-07:00

This picture didn't make it on to the Adoption announcement, but I really like it. As you can see from Caleb, it was taken in the morning before school. Notice his eyes. Do NOT suggest however that he looks tired and needs to get to bed earlier. That could not possible be it. Just ask him..... I dare you. Trever is the most photogenic of the group. I love his pose. Someday he will melt some poor girls heart. Annie and Joseph forget that I really don't want a picture of the inside of their nose. And Jessica is holding relatively still and even hinting at a smile. My kids. I love 'em.

Reasons

2010-07-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

So this picture is out of date now. We had baby Sianne for a week, had a week break and now we have Jessica with us. She is 18 months old and is a cute blond hair light brown eyed cherrub. I have been feeling lately like everyone thinks we are crazy and can't understand why we have taken another child into our family. Some people have said I am a saint. I think I would admit
to being crazy long before I would consider being a saint.
I know that I shouldn't care what other people think. But is causing me some stress and worry, so I thought I would try to explain here... at least for myself and for my children someday when they wonder. (if I was crazy that is, they know I am not a saint!)

When Jason and I were first married right around the time I was expecting Caleb, I saw a commercial for Foster/Adoption. They showed teenage children needing a home and family. It struck me at that time, the need these children have and how so many of us are so blessed that we should be able to give. I thought that we would one day look into doing foster care, but not at that time. Little did I know how my life would change in the following two years.

When Jason got sick and we had to rely on so many for help both physically and financially I leared alot about needs and giving and recieving. I haven't put all that I learned into words, but the feelings will always remain. Jason and I did discuss at length the fact that when we could we would repay all that was given to us by giving to others.

Then there comes the long old story of how we tried to continue our family. There is alot of old baggage there too, but the end result is that we began Foster care. I do believe Heavenly Father had a hand in it. We also at this time moved into our home. It was so much bigger than we were used to and we both commented that we would fill it up with children.

Well, we now have had 15 children and we have 5 currently living with us. They have all been my children since the phone call was placed saying yes we would be able to take them. I have had a certain attachment with each of them and a piece of my heart resides with each where ever they are. A little over a year ago, before Annie came to us, I was beginning to think about Joseph entering into school and what I would do with no children at home. I knew I could not just stay at home and be the duster of dust bunnies all the rest of my days, but defining who I would be or what I would do was so very illusive. I called it my mid life crisis. I love and miss teaching band, but my heart just wasn't in it like before. Plus I would not be able to juggle football games and such and stay with my family like I want. I know I could go back to school and become a nurse, but that idea still just doesn't sit right. A friend told me I should just get a fun job, like at a craft store or something. As I tried to make that fit, I realized that I have always wanted to make a difference in peoples lives. I feel like I did that with band. I gave kids options and broadened horizions. But now is the time for something else.

Well then we got the call and Annie came to us. She is a light and truely a blessing just as they all have been. We thought we were finished. And yet Jason and I both kept feeling like someone was missing. So we put ourselves back on the list. Throughout this time I have come to realize that this is my passion. I feel strongly that these children deserve a chance. They teach me so much and make me feel like I am not so indebt. Heavenly Father has given me so very much... more than I deserve and I feel no more deserving that those who have so little around the world. I would truely be selfish and ungrateful if I did not share. I have love to spare and room in my home, Jason has a good job that pays well. He was spared for a reason, and until we find out what is was Heavenly Father spared him for we will create a reason.... to help his children. I know that not everyone can do this job, and I know that not everyone should do this job. I don't judge anyone for not doing it. But I do know that I can do it and so I will.

We are waiting for all the court stuff to be over and we will then make Annie a permanent part of our family. We may or may not make Jessica a permanent part of our family, it is still too early to tell. We may or may not be done adding children to our home and to our family. I can't see the future. Sometimes we feel so old to still be changing diapers and having little ones underfoot. Right now however, this is something we can do, something we feel we are supposed to do, and Heavenly Father will help us.

Aiah

2010-05-01T20:32:00.000-07:00

Ok, I don't know if that is how you spell it, but I will be hearing it in my sleep tonight. All three boys tested for their orange belts today. It was a very long day, but they did so well and I am so proud of them. It really is not as easy as it may look. Joseph has really grown leaps and bounds since starting Tai Kwon Do, but all three of them are learning self discipline, self confidence and respect. They are really working physically as well as mentally and it is helping them in so many ways. It takes alot of time and a fair bit of moolah, but it is worth it and I am so glad we are able to do it. I hope you enjoy the pictures... I am very proud. There are more pictures on facebook. Look how fast I was at doing this post..... same day.

Chiata Dance

2010-04-25T08:25:00.001-07:00

So my stupid camera is really broken and I am still waiting for the new one I ordered to get here. For this reason, I do not have pictures to go with this post. I did want to write about it before I forget though.
For those of you who don't really know Joseph, to say he is shy and clingy is an understatement. He has been getting better though. The other day we were in the grocery store. Joseph was walking beside me and was seriously engrossed in his own world. He invented the Chiata dance. He would say Chiiiii Ata over and over while doing various moves all of which involved shaking his cute little tushy in various ways. It was so cute. As we went along he got more and more brave (oblivious) and louder. He was laughing and have a truely grand time. He kept telling me to watch his Chiata moves.
Well as all good things must come to an end, some fairly young, nice looking, well dressed man came up behind us and passed. He was smiling as he observed for a min. Then said, " Hey dude, really nice moves." Of course that brought Joseph to a complete stand still right behind my leg with his arm around it. It has taken several days to convince him to even attempt to do the chiata dance again and I still haven't gotten the unreserved dance he performed in the store. I am so glad I got to see it, and hope he learns to "let go" a little more often. Everyone should dance to the music they hear without being embarrased. Life is short laugh more often. I love you Joseph and I so loved your fabulous Chiata dance.

Longing

2010-01-25T09:30:00.000-08:00

I always used to love the winters and the snow. I must be getting old. My least favorite colors today are brown and white. I miss family and wish I could see the sun today. Here's to Spring arriving early! Everyone think water sports.

Texas

2010-01-20T09:10:00.000-08:00

Some of the highlights (completely out of order) were watching Brinton and Ami play at their basketball games. Watching Brinton brought back strong memories of Terry. They look alot alike. Listening to Mom and Dan cheer brought back memories too and I was only embarrassed a couple of times. : ) The Temple was beautiful. The kids were so well behaved, not just in the temple but during our entire stay. I really just can't say just how impressed with the kids I am. I know they were on their best behavior for guests, but I am very impressed.

The spirit was very strong in the Temple, but I felt it throughout the weekend and in the Taylors home. It makes my heart glad to have another family blest with the experience of adoption. I could get all weepy and doctrine here but suffice it to say I consider this experience a great blessing to Patrick and Ashlyn and mabe even more so to everyone else involved. Thank you all for letting me be there.

Ashlyn and Hannah are the "two little girls" They are full of life and energy. Ashlyn is catching up and is such a pretty little thing. She is a sponge just soaking up all she can and has a sweet spirit about her. Hannah is a live wire. Her excitement for life is contagious and hard to keep up with. She is loving and so happy. Ethan is a handsome young man. He is a big helper and is so smart. Patrick is eager to please and do what is right. He loves to give hugs and be helpful. Connor is growing up so fast. He is very helpful and is so good at sharing and teaching by example how to treat others. Ami is such a beautiful young lady. She is a little mother and takes good care of the house and her little sisters. She is so responsible. Brinton is funny and helpful. He sounds just like his dad. None of the kids complained or refused to help or do something that was asked of them.

I had a fabulous time in Texas. Great family, great relaxation, great new place to see, and pretty good weather considering what I came home to. Jenny, Dan, and family, Thank you so much for your hospitality. I miss you each already. I wish Texas wasn't so far away. hoping to visit again sooner rather than later.

10 Things...

2010-01-04T20:04:00.000-08:00

I often get told by "people who have been there" to treasure this time with my young kids and that one day I will miss the things that seemed so bothersome now. Well, I have created a list of at least 10 things I am positive I will not miss.

1. Wiping the pee off the toilet seat, back and floor every time I want to use it and several times in between. (Boys)

2. Doing the laundry for 4 very messy people, Little or not. (For the hundreth time Your shirt is not a napkin or a tissue. )

3. Tripping over or stepping on someone elses belonging that were left right in the middle of the walk way.

4. Nah uh....... Yah huh...... Nah uh...... Yah huh........YAH HUH....... NAA UH......YAH HUH.......

5. Mom he's bothering me, ....... MOM he's bothering me......MOOOOMMMM HES BOTHERING MEEE.

6. Cleaning up pee in places other than the bathroom.

7. MOOOM I went Poop!

8. Cleaning bare bottoms that are older than 3.

9. Hearing " I'm not hungry, I have a tummy ach, I don't like it. " at the dinner table only to be asked for something to eat moments after the table is cleared.

10. Washing clean folded clothes that got scooped up into the laundry basket because they never got put away when you sent them to put away the clean laundry.

Now least any of you think that I am not enjoying my children and realizing how fast time flies, I have a list of 10 things I know I will miss and treasure them, even if I have to hide it.

1. How small the fingerprints on the window of every room and car are.

2. Someone needing me in the middle of the night because they had a nightmare.

3. Kissing the owies better even if I had told them to stop before someone got their eye poked out.

4. Washing tiny little baby clothes, (Already miss that one.)

5. Watching my children gobble up dinner and say.... That is the best meal ever. even if it was store bought pizza.

6. The funny way they talk when they don't really know how to say a word. (Dick Donalds and Heckitocker)

7. Watching them learn that they really can do something that they didn't think they could.

8. Them wanting to sit on my lap and play with my hair.

9. Singing bed time songs.

10. Knowing exactly where they are when it is 10:00.

Ok I could probablly list more than 10 if I thought about it, but I could probablly make myself cry too, and that was not the reason I started this entry. Time is going by so fast and I know it and sometimes I wish I could slow it down, but really Can't they at least wipe up after they hose down the toilet that I have to sit on?!!!?

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T20:39:00.000-08:00

Well, the kids seemed to have a happy halloween. We have tons of candy. It is quite the trick to dole it out slowly.

Cakeb was Spok from Star Trek. I kept telling him to be happy, and he would say.... Happiness is not logical. If he ran his ears would fall off so he was slow, but that made Joseph happy, cause he is slow. Trever was Zoro, and he had a blast. And NO this Zoro did not get a sword.

Joseph was Bat Man for the second year in a row. He would wear the mask for a picture and then put it away. It bugged him.

Annie was a Butterfly. She was not to be left behind in the stroller. She would run up to the door with the boys, and get her candy. I was surprized she left he costume on, but she did. You couldn't hear her, but she would say trick or treat, and thaaaank you and I is a butterfly.

Cute cute. Mom got a little tired of trying to keep the kids together (Trever would run ahead, and the others would get so frustrated) but it was a pretty good halloween.

The Pocket

2009-10-20T21:22:00.000-07:00

Having three boys, we have no shortage of boy parts stories. When Caleb was potty training, he was found crying one day and asked when I was going to die. I told him not for a very long time and asked why. He was so terribly concerned that I was going to explode because if I didn't have a P@#*, I could not go pee and would explode. Trever is still not sure that life is very fair. He thinks that if girls aren't lucky enough to be born with one, then they definately should be able to grow one when they get bigger. But our latest and greatest story is that of the pocket.
Joseph was having alot of trouble getting his underware on the right way. I tried and tried to show him the tag goes in the back. He was getting a sore bum because of the constant wedgie he had when his tighty whitys were on backwards, so I finally showed him the pocket in the front. I opened it up and he even put his had through it. Then he asked why he needed a pocket in his underware. I told him that he could use it when he is older. Of Course... Trever was very kind in his big brother duties to show him what the pocket is used for. Next thing I know Joseph comes running out of the bathroom with his "unit" poking out of the pocket in all kinds of pride and joy. He then wanted to show every visitor we had for the next few days his new "pocket". I do apologize to any of you who had the pleasure. You just never know what may greet you when you come to our house.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
In other news today, The permanancy hearing for Annie was today. DCFS was requesting that there be no more reunification, and that we move forward with a hearing to terminate parental rights. That was granted. The case goes back to court in Dec. We are hopeful that by the new year Annie will be leagally free, and we will proceed with the adoption. Thank you for all the prayers. Keep sending them. I feel bad for her birth parents, but they truely are not capable of taking care of her.

The Marble

2009-10-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

I started this blog as a way to keep a kind of journal about the boys. In that interrest I must tell a few stories that have stood out in the last few months. This one is about the Marble.
The marble in question is (or should I say was) one of those Magnetix marbles. It is slightly heaver than a regular marble, maybe fractionaly bigger, and of course magnetic. Well, no matter how many times you tell your children not to put certain objects in their mouths, some lessons have to be learned the hard way. Joseph swallowed it. He was pretty sure he was going to throw up, or choke, or die. We are pleased to say that he did none of these things.
I called my mother just to make sure my intended course of action(wait and it will come out the other end) was the right one to take. My sister ( I shall not name names) was very worried for Joseph and thought I should take him to the ER, so that his organs would not be pulled out of order or worse by the magnet. I did not see her perticular worry as terribly truthful, so I waited.
About four days later, this is what transpired. It is about bed time and several children have been taking baths. Each time I go into the bathroom I find poo in the toilet that no one claims. I flush. After about the third flush, I complain rather loudly that my children are certainly smart enough to learn how to flush a toilet. It is starting to stink up the bathroom. Well, Joseph say,
"I tried to flush it, but the toilet is broken." So I flush again, and watch this time. It seems to go down, and all is well. Next time I turn around the same darn log is still there. It came back. WTH. I flush again..... and again. Then I peer very closely......... That darn shiny metal marble is poking out the side. Now most of us moms know that pennies, and marbles don't flush. I was very irritably contemplating how I was going to fish out the marble when Trever walks in, says ewwwww, I'll do it and flushes. It went. The boy has an air of authority over poo. I was saved. And Joseph is well, there were no excaped organs or anything. A fairly happy ending.

Then and Now

2009-09-01T20:01:00.001-07:00

Our house hold is growing up.

I admit that I have been very deliquent in blogging. I don't have any really good reason, just lazy I guess. I looked at the cat the other day and noticed how big it has gotten in just the few short months that we have had him. And it struck me how fast my children are growing. Some days it feels way too slow...... but other days it hits me just how fast it is flying by.
I haven't gotten any pictures of Annie when she was tiny, but I didn't want to leave her out either. She is so beautiful, and she is learning and growing up each day right before my eyes.

My stupid computer put my pictures on backwards so you will actually get the Now, and then the then. Joseph is so excited to ride his big boy bike and loves to go out and take a spin. He is very good to remember his helmet. I am glad to have one more year with him before Kindergarten.

He was such a tiny little thing. Always so good natured and easy going. Always LOUD. He came into to this world saying " I will be heard!!!!"

Trever is always thinking. Always smiling about something. He has gotten a little anxious as school has approached and started. He has some tender feelers...... sometimes.

He has always had something he seemed to be up to. He is a jokester and an adventurous little devil. He loves cats, and he loves to pester. He really doesn't like to be pestered though.

I can hardly remember when Caleb was a baby. It seems several lifetimes ago. He is so mature for his age. He is loving, kind and tries always to please and be his best. He is smart, and very sensitive.

I didn't have a digital camera when Caleb was small. I tried to scan a smaller picture in, but I was not patient and couldn't get it to work right. This is one I scanned in a more patient time. The candy bar he stole from Dad is almost bigger than he is. Such a cute little boy. So precious, the light of our lives. Always, Always moms big helper.

It seems as if our baby days are coming to an end. It make me sad, and yet I look forward to my children growing up and becoming great adults. They are full of potential and goodness. I hope and pray every day that they won't need too much counsiling to undo my damage and reach their potential and dreams. I miss my babies...... I love my children and I hope for my grown children.

The great Outdoors

2009-07-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

I find it odd how these things got on backwards. Anyway, this is what we all looked like after all the other pictures were taken. These are from our Palmer family campout at Rockport. We love the trailer and are really enjoying the lake. We have been to pine veiw a couple of times, at to east canyon, and now to rock port. We are all ready to go again.

If you look, close that is Annie and I on the jet ski. She kept begging for another "ide". It was so nice that all the kids had life jackets and just played and played. Very relaxing. Trever would swim and get cold, then lay out on his black tube and warm up.... over and over and over.

Joseph was amazing this year. Last year he would barely get his toes wet without crying. This year it was NO FEAR! He was rarely out of the water. So so so much fun. When I wasn't on a jest ski, I was relaxin on the beach. I did get to go for one wild tube ride and I made it up on skis. I was feeling like an old lady, but after my short trip on skis and my many jet ski trips, I feel much better about myself. What fun summer this is.

I am scared to get my camera ruined so I don't have much pictures. Caleb will ride the jet ski with me, but his favorite was to tube behind the boat. He didn't want to at first, but I was mean and made him go. It only took a few minutes at the right speed...(fast enough to get on top of the water) and he was a believer. I wish I had a pic of him tubing, but I didn't take my camera on the boat. I was working the ropes, being the flag person, and holding Annie... didn't really have a hand to spare anyway. Thanks to the Mertens for sharing their boat and the Palmers for sharing their jet skis. Give us a few years to save up some moolah and we are ready to get a three seater jet ski.

Lazer

2009-06-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been decided that the cat shall be called Lazer, for that is a manly name. It is getting fat, and frisky. So far it seems to know that if it goes for my legs or feet it will be given to Shadow as a play toy. So far the new has not worn off either. I still have to solve the fights over the cat several times a day. Jason however loves the cat, and even though I keep threatening, it appears that the cat is staying. Four kids, two fish, a dog and a cat. The house is full. I keep thinking "I need to enjoy the full house because it won't be full forever." Some days it is easier than others. The summer seems to be flying by. It has finally warmed up here and today was a great summer day. We slept late, lounged around this morning. After lunch, we ate Ice cream cones at the park. Now Annie is down for a nap, and the boys are jumping on the trampoline while taking turns spraying it down with water. I hope you all are enjoying the fleeting days of summer.

Goings on

2009-06-20T10:06:00.001-07:00

Caleb was riding his bike with his cousin and they found this kitten by the road. It was pretty gross looking and very scared. So they took it to my in laws house. There my wonderful sister i law and friend bathed it and cleaned out its nose and ears, and then she promptly put it in a kennel and brought it to my house. I know, she is so sweet. Anyway, I was holding it for just a minute thinking about it and Trever comes up. He sees the kitten, holds it for a second, and then hugs me saying " OH Mom, thank you thank you. I have been praying and praying for a cat. Now Heavenly Father answered my prayer. Thank you for getting me a cat. " There were almost tears in his eyes. So after Jason got the story and looked at the kitten, Trever and Dad promptly set out to get food, and litter. Have I mentioned my feelings on cats. ..... It is cute, and Trever seems to want to call him snowball. I guess I can go with SB for short. This picture is hard to see, but I had to post a picture of all the rain. No matter where we go, or what we have planned, we seem to get thunder showers to go with it. We were at the dinosaur park and the kids were playing in the sand on the play ground equipment when this cloud burst came. They were all very wet, and sandy, but it provided a great time for all.

Here is Annie and mom under the awning trying to stay dry while all the kids were having a great time in the rain.

We are all having a great time with lots of cousins this summer. The days stay busy and we are getting excited to go camping again. I will try to post more pics soon.

Fun Weekend

2009-04-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun weekend in Twin Falls. Caleb went shooting for the first time, and loved it. I tried to get more pictures uploaded, but the computer and I aren't getting along. Uncle Pat and Grandpa taught Caleb about gun safety and the he shot two different .22 pistols, and a rifle. I even got to shoot and it was a blast. Caleb is not the only one who wants a gun. : ) We had alot of fun with April, Ashlyn and Collin, Brent, Amber, Carter and Brooklynn, Pat and Jan, and Terry, Ana, Michaela, Andrea, Tiana, and Steven. The weekend went by fast, but we all had fun. We sure missed Jenny and Dan and the kids.
Thanks Mom and Dad for letting us all overrun your house. Thanks Mom for watching the kids while we went shooting. Trever and Joseph absolutely loved being with you at the fish pond. I will try to post more when my computer isn't acting retarded.

Welcome home Pat

2009-03-20T09:57:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know I haven't seen you yet, but I know you finally made it and I am so glad. I have read about how arduous the journey out of hell can be http://afghanistanshrugged.com/2009/02/09/the-land-that-war-forgot.aspx and I am just so glad your home now. We can't wait to come to Idaho for a visit.

I know that this isn't my normal thing, but I have heard about Osama's ideas on Vets and insurance. I am deeply disturbed and ashamed that our country could even entertain such and idea. If you don't know what I am talking about go to http://afghanistanshrugged.com/2009/03/18/for-wounds-suffered-purple-heart-and-a-bill.aspx . I actually heard about this on the news before I read this on the blog. I will be contacting my goverment officials to let them know that it is not ok to do anything but bluntly reject anything like this ever.

I don't consider myself especially involved in politics, but this is outrageous. I have a deep respect and appreciation for those who put themselves in harms way for our benifit. I have the same respect for their families who sacrifice, and risk so much.

Anyway, I hope that in our efforts to get out of this cruddy economy, we do not loose all that is right and good. Can't wait to see you April, and Pat. Miss you all.

Out of Control

2009-02-25T19:54:00.000-08:00

Do any of you ever feel like your life is spinning out of control? Every where I look there is a stack of stuff to put somewhere else, or something to clean, or something to paint. Every day there is a list of errends to be run, kids to feed and keep track of and homework to be done. And there are the bigger things that come up, like taxes, and painting, and new cars and getting ready for this or that. It just feels like I am running and don't seem to be finding the finish line.
Caleb had his scout blue and gold banquet tonight. It is almost May, and he still has so much to work on for scouts. I can barely keep him caught up on his homework, doing his chores, daily reading, school projects, practicing math and spelling, piano, playing with the dog, and finding time to be a kid, let alone scout projects that aren't getting done during scouts that I faithfully take him to on Wed. nights. I am told it only gets worse as the homework increases. If that is true, I am in trouble.
I swear my kids need more sleep. (at least the two younger ones) They are grouchy, and whiney, and not really very nice to each other sometimes, but do you think I can get them to even stay in bed at night, much less go to sleep at the designated time of 8 pm. It is a battle I am loosing.
Jason is sick again. Its a cold that seems to be going around. But I can never get myself to not worry when he gets sick.
I am so sick and freaking tired of hearing about the crappy economy. I have done what I can to be prepared, and we really are in a pretty good spot, so I am done with the news for a while.
After two very late nights, the apartment side of the basement is painted. (except the baseboards and moulding(sp)). I guess that is the real problem, I am tired. It is cold, or at least I have been cold all winter, and it is very grey outside. I need a sunny beach and some R and R.
I am sure tomorrow will be a better day.
I hope you all are feeling in control and well rested.

Catching up

2009-01-21T20:04:00.000-08:00

I have'nt put any new pictures on this computer, but I thought I would write an update anyway. Things here are plugging along. We have been struggling with colds/sinus infections for a while now. It just seems to keep circling through. I am proud to say that so far I have been doing well with my new goals. I have part of the basement preped and ready to paint. I plan on starting with my sewing room on Monday.
Jason is doing well at work. He gets to work out 2 times a week during work and gets paid for it, so he is still maintaining strength and improving his health. Being the membership clerk is frustrating, but he does his best to keep up.
Caleb is doing well at school. They are getting ready for the Utah program next week. He got to watch the inaguration of our new president on Tuesday and thought that was pretty neat. He is growing up so fast. He is working hard in scouts.
Trever is such a smarty pants. He is well on his way to reading. He does really well in school. He still has his challenges, but don't we all. He is a great helper with Caleb's dog. He absolutely loves the x box, and gameboys. It is a challenge to limit his time on them.
Joseph is doing well in preschool. We are all so glad he is potty trained now, and doing so well with it. He still likes to be momma's baby sometimes, so I get lots of hugs and wet kisses. (that kid has trouble keeping his tongue in his mouth and swallowing his spit) EWWWwwwww how sweet. : )
We are all feeling a little sad to not have a baby in the house. We all miss Kamden and Cami. We hope to get a little girl soon. Keep praying for us.
Well, I guess that about covers the main points right now. Hope you all are doing well, and that warmer weather is coming soon.

New Year

2009-01-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

Ok, I have never been really big on New year resolutions... I have no follow through. I was feeling a little stagnant yesterday so I wrote down a few things I want to accomplish this year. Maybe you all can come help.
I am going to paint the entire basement (apt side and all). The celing needs done upstairs, but I just don't think I have it in me, not even just to write it down. You all know how decorating challenged I am so I need ideas on color. I am also going to use my new surger to sew curtains for the entire basement (4 lg windows). Again color suggestions will be welcome. Trever needs a big person sized quilt for his bed. The baby ones just aren't following his body as he rolls in the big bed.
So I have several sewing projects to do. I also make hooded towels now, and I want to try to sell them this year. Those of you who I have made towels for your kids, if people admire them, tell them where they can buy them for a decent price.
The boys are getting older and just don't need my constant attention like they used to so I want to be productive this year. We were thinking of hiring someone to do the painting, but we decided to save the money and try to get a new truck and a camping trailer this year. We would love to take a big vacation each year but with Jason's health it is sometimes hard to rack up enough hours to get away. We can however take more advantage of his every other friday off and take small camping trips with the kids. So that is the goal. Have more fun this year and less serious, never go anywhere work. We'll see what happens.
I always say I want to be more healthy, but I really really need to loose some weight. So I am starting out small. For the first three months this year my goals are to only drink diet when I have a soda. (Diet Mt. dew isn't too bad.) Walk the dog at least 5 nights a week. And continue my endevors to have balanced, somewhat healthy meals. After a couple of months I will try to add a few more goals. I do want to be successful and I know if I try to go too fast I will just bag the whole thing.
So I will keep pleanty of paint brushes on hand for you all. : ) And I anxiously look forward to hearing some good color suggestions.
Happy new year everyone. Let me know your goals this year.

2008-12-19T08:10:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note. These were taken at the Jump to it place in Twin Falls. We had such fun there, playing with cousins. We were so glad that Andrew and Alyssa got to join us. Anyway, I just wanted to put up these pics for everyone. Happy kids is always good to see.

Christmas Play

2008-12-19T07:58:00.000-08:00

Well, Caleb had his first ever Christmas play last night. He has been so excited for weeks. He would go around the house humming and start singing the songs, then he would ubruptly stop and say.... "oh, I don't want to spoil it for you." Well, he came through last night. The auditorium was completely packed. (In fact, I heard the fire marshal was there and not very happy) Not only at 20 to the start time was there standing room only, by the time it started, standing room was 3 and 4 deep. The kids had a good time and Caleb sang his heart out. He was so annimated and he sang every word. It was so fun to see him so happy and into music.

It is official, my camera sucks. I really have never liked this one as much as the one before, but sand in CA took the good one to its grave. Anyway. To the left of Caleb in the pictures are his two best friends Tyler and Breanna. They have their own book club and everything.

I didn't get pictures, but Joseph had his preschool party. They got to wear their pjs to school and then they went around the world to see how different places celebrated christmas. Every new place they would lay down and pretend to sleep and wake up to Christmas morning again. He had a ball.

Trever's party is coming up next week. It's hard to imagine him being more excited for anything. He loves Miss Amy and enjoys school.

Well, the time has come for me to get ready for the day. As always the house work is calling. Hope all the kids enjoy their programs and partys.

Tis the Season

2008-12-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving in Twin..... until the day after. I don't even know what happened that day except for pain and puking and bouts of unconsciousness. I have heard that Jenny's whole family had it and that is worse, but it has taken me a week to finally feel like I will live.

The kids are all excited to return to Twin for a reunion/celebration on the day after Christmas. We are all so excited to have Michaela finally be an official Thueson. They will be sealed on the 27th. I wanted to post about Thanksgiving, and all that I am thankful for. Temples is a big one. Over the years I have slowly talked less and less about my feelings about spiritual things. It tends to make me very very emotional. But since none of you can see the blubbering, I would like to take a minute and be greatful. Simple things My husbands life, his job, my THREE children. (its really 13, but not all of them live with me) A home, heat, food, school, books, and I guess alot of it comes down to the miracles of God. I don't know why some people get the miracles they pray for and others do not. I don't know why we were given the miracle of Jason's life and health. But I am greatful for it and all things that have come from it.

Our little Kamden and Cami went to live with their grandparents the week of Thanksgiving. It has been a difficult time to reconcile the loss with the graditude and love we feel this holiday season. I am greatful for all of my children. We miss them dearly and pray for their welfare continually.

This week I spent sewing....(Christmas jammies, and hooded towels). I want to start baking. I LOVE all the Christmas traditional treats. I am having a hard time getting started though. I don't have enough time to make them all, and it cramps my style to know that. I will do the olympia creams for sure, and some fudge. I really would like to do the Christmas bread, but I just don't know. I need some visitors to come cook with me. I think I love the kitchen most when their are friends and family to work and laugh with.

Well, I have to get the french bread started for dinner and the olympia creams started so they will be ready to dip on Monday. Pat, they may be late, but I will get some to you. (I love you and miss you that much!!!) Everyone stay safe and well (or get well). I love you all. Happy holidays.

Sixes

2008-11-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

Ok I got tagged by my sister Jenny. I really don't do this very often, but I love to read them so here goes.
6 Tv. shows-
The Unit
Numbers
Greys Anatomy
Boston Legal
The Office
Life
Now I like all of these shows, and I could name a few more, but I don't get to watch them very often.

6 Things I did yesterday-
Changed several poopy diapers.
Laundry
Went to dinner with Hubby
Went Christmas shopping with Hubby
Went to Caleb's Parent Teacher conference
Had White Molten Cake from Chilis for desert.

6 Places to eat.
(This is kind of hard)
Olive Garden
Chilis
Maple Garden
Sizzler
IHOP
Rickenbackers

6 things I wish for
Kids that listen before I yell.
Laundry that stayed done for one day.
Self cleaning toilets
To go to Hawaii
To keep my diet and excercise plans
No holes in the walls. ( I have 4 boys)

6 things I look forward to-
Twilight (the movie Next weekend)
A new good book (I just finished The Hunger Games...very good)
Sewing the kids new Christmas PJs
Making the traditional Olympia Creams (fond memories there)
Spending time with friends (Jan, Becky.... I never see you)
Being able to travel more toSee family (Its too long inbetween visits.)

Now I know that if I tag 6 people they wont do it so my sixth thing is
6 things I miss
Ricks College (ok College days in general. I wouldn't want to go back for good, but I would love to visit for a few days.)
Friends and Family
All my children that aren't with me.
Being able to eat what ever when ever and not care about it. (I think the last time that happened I was 9.)
Skipping school and taking a treat to my dad. (High school is always rough, but I enjoy that part alot.)
Band.... Being in or conducting music. Even practicing. (I so NEVER thought I would say that.)
Consider yourself tagged if you haven't been already. Have a great day.

Halloween

2008-11-07T20:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween everyone. I know I am a week late in this post, but the kids are cute anyway.

Our fearless Lion hated his costume, and the baby wasn't going anywhere in the chilly weather, but we had Batman to defend against criminals, Zoro to defend against villians and Ben Ten to defend against aliens.

Batman and Zoro both had a hard time keeping their masks on their faces, but they had fun. And the glow sticks dad bought special for this ocassion was a hit. We went around the neighborhood for about an hour and then headed over to make sure Grandma Palmer was safe. She had lots of treats and her usual hot chocolate waiting.

Feeling Better

2008-10-28T07:55:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I might be the "glass half empty" person, but I like everyone to believe otherwise. I am feeling quite a bit better. I wanted to post some pictures, but the rambunctious two year old that keeps climbing into everything when I leave the room has kept me from downloading pictures lately.
For recent news, our renter has moved out. We are exctied to have the extra space, but I am a bit nervous about the extra cleaning. I sure wish robots were more affordable.
Caleb is doing well in school. He is really enjoying reading and is trying hard on his spelling and math. He is going to be Ben Ten for halloween.
Trever loves school and is really doing well. He is starting to read and does fairly well. He is going to be Zoro.
Joseph is loving preschool and is officially potty trained. The latter is a day to be celebrated with joy and glee. He is excited to be bat man.
Kamden is so full of energy. His personality is a lot like Trevers. He is always looking for trouble, but has the cutest angel face, and smile. He is going to be a lion.
Our sweet Cami is growing ...... way to fast as usual. She is so happy and easy to make laugh. It is Joseph's favorite past time. She is very talkitive and giggles all the time. She is now four months. For halloween, I would rather she be warm and inside, but we may put the lady bug costume on for a bit..... just long enough for her to puke on it. : )
The dog is still a puppy, but a big one. She is potty trained.... I think. And she loves to be outside (very good) She is well behaved for Jason and I, but the kids have a harder time with her when she get hyper. Joseph is probablly the one with the most control with her. He gets treats for her and she will calmly sit for him and behave for him. ......
The guy is here to replace the water filters, the kids are screaming and the baby wants attention. I guess that is all for now. Thanks for all the warm thoughts. It helped me feel better.

Life

2008-10-20T14:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I have used the excuse of being really busy for some time now. The truth is, I have been having a down period and I really didn't want you all to have to endure the whining. I love my husband, my children, my life. I know that doing foster care is what we (my family and I ) are supposed to be doing for now. I love having all the things that we have and I feel very blessed. That being said, Jason has had alot of migrains lately and it is difficult for us all when Dad is sick. I worry like crazy, and that only increases my stress level. Going from three kids to five over night has had its challenges. We are just getting into a routine, and I know that any day now DCFS is going to call and tell me to pack up yet some more of my children and give them to someone else. The minute these children come to me, I feel like they are mine, and I have now given away 8 children. When these two go, it will be ten. I don' t want sympathy, and I get tired of people telling me I need to quit. I would like to, but every time we don't have a placement I feel very unnerved, agitated and restless. Maybe this is just what it is like to go crazy.
I have come to the conclusion that I am a "glass is half empty " kind of person and that really bothers me. I would like to be the other way.....
We have been sick around here for the last little while with different things. I have parented enough kids to know that that is just how it goes, but it causes stress too.
Jan, I miss you. I know you are busy with work and family, me too, but I miss you.
Like I said I have been in a funk for some time now. Not depressed, just not Jubilant. I guess that is just life. I know that it will get better and I really do recognize my blessings everyday, and am very greatful. I love you all and miss a great many of you. I check all your blogs regularly (unless you are lurking and I don't know who you are) and pray for all of you.
The baby needs fed, Joseph wants to play a game, and the oldest two are due home from school soon. I hope you all have a "glass more full " day today.

School Time

2008-09-16T07:27:00.001-07:00

School time is always a little nerve racking. (I do not know why this is underlining, and I can't seem to fix it..... help!) Caleb is so excited to be in fourth grade. He really likes school, and generally does well.
Trever couldn't wait for school to start. He had to wait an entire week after Caleb started to go himself. It was a cruel form of torture. He is still enjoying it so far. We are all still trying to adjust to new schedules and homework, but things are starting to settle down.

This is Joseph's third day of school, but this is such a cute picture. He loves school, not even one tear on the first day. He gets treasures for reading and they are already being super heros, and pirates. He asks every day if it is school day, and begs to go on the weekends.
last weekend we got to watch Mia over the weekend and it was a true treat for us all. Ok, 6 kids with 5 age 5 and under was a little crazy. Mia is quick to laugh and squeal and is very loving. She is healthy and happy. She turned one in July. She is walking now, but still falls half way there and finishes crawling. We sure love her and miss her sweet loving spirit in our home. We are grateful her birth parents are so willing to continue sharing her with us.
Kamden and Cami are still a part of our family. Kamden is alot like Trever. He is always on the go, and is pretty happy. Cami is the most smily happy baby I have seen. She is very content, and easy. Of course she has the reflux, all my babies do, but despite the constant puking she is happy. She usually has a huge grin with goo leaking out the sides.

We all remain busy. Jason has been doing well. He just usually has more projects than time to accomplish them.

Canning and Kids

2008-08-30T12:13:00.001-07:00

So we started canning a couple of weeks ago. My sister in law and I did Apricot Jam. Well it seems that every time I start canning and the kids go back to school we get more kids. Yes it happened again. We are now a family of 4 boys and 1 girl (not including the parents who are very much out numbered) Our two yr old boy and two month old girl are setteling in pretty well now. I am just running all the time, but I find running better that being bored. Caleb is really enjoying fourth grade and Trever and Joseph cant wait to start school this coming week.
I also heard from Mia's mom this last week. They are graduating from drug court this week and invited me to be there. We are so happy for them that they are doing well and continuing on the right track. I am excited to go and support them and see our Mia. It made my day that Susan would invite me and warms us to know they appreciate and accept our part in Mia's life. I really couldn't be happier for them.
Joseph turned four this week. He is really growing up and is such a fun part of our family.
Well, hopefully next week I can find a few minutes to put some pics on the blog. It is fun to hear everybodys blogs, I just don't have time to comment sometimes.

One Busy Summer

2008-08-07T14:16:00.000-07:00

Well to begin with, we have had several owies this year. Yes the E R doctor recognized me. Poor Joseph's head didn't fair to well when matched at great speed against the marble fire place. He did really good though, and even fell asleep while the dr. put in his stiches. (2internal and 5 external).
We were so very lucky to have my sister April and her cutie pie kids come to visit. On the way to the airport to pick them up, Trever asked if it was just Aunt April, or if Ashlyn was coming too. When I told him Ashlyn was coming he said......."Oh good...... I just love that girl!" We all feel that way not just about Ashlyn, but about April and our cute boy Collin too.
We tried to keep the busy. We went to the movies, and the Treehouse museum. We all went to Cherry Hill and everyone went down at least one water slide. We look forward to seeing them again at Thanksgiving.

Other things I have done that have kept me from posting....... I stayed up most of the night with the Crook family to walk in the Relay for Life. I have taken the kids to This is the place monument park and pioneer village. Every wednesday we have gone to the summer movie at the movie theatre. I have taught a few piano lessons, and up until last month we had little Kianna. We are anxiously waiting for another baby and hope one comes to us soon. School starts on the 25th of this month, so now it is get ready time. Hope you all are having a fun and busy summer too.

(ps. I just got a new computer and haven't learned quite how to work it all. Sorry about the funny font stuff. I am quite computer dumb.)

Memory Lane

2008-07-18T08:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, I usually don't play the tag games and stuff, but since I have been feeling a little lonely lately, this one sounded fun.

1. Leave a comment here of a memory you have of you and I. It doesn't matter if we know each other well or just a little.
2. If you leave a comment I will go to your blog. If you are playing there I will leave a comment, if not I will comment here on my memory of us.

What is new

2008-07-03T12:27:00.003-07:00

Well, I ended up having my gall bladder removed this month and our little Kianna went to live with her Aunt . Last week our new door finally came in and we had it installed. Jason got it stained, but we are out of time and he will have to finish caulking and painting the trim after the fourth. The best news is that Caleb got his cast off. There was much drama and trauma, but we got it off and now he just has to wear the wrap for two weeks. He also decided to go for a new look and wanted me to buzz his hair again. It is nice to see his face again.
This month we also went up to Rock Port. The Palmer family had their anual camp out. We just went up for a day....... I wasn't up for the all night tent and cold thing while I was still being super glued together. The kids all had fun, and we were glad Caleb's cast was waterproof.

Best Friends

2008-06-19T15:40:00.000-07:00

Most of you know how crazy scared of dogs Joseph was. At the sight of even a small dog out the front window, Joseph would cry and be afraid. When outside with one in sight, he would litterally crawl up my leg and scream about the dog eating him. Well, today Joseph asked if he could go outside to pet the doggie. I said yes, and for over an hour I watched him gate off his garden and talk and pet and play with the dog with her chew toy. I finally decided that I couldn't get a good pic through the blinds, so I went out to find a very hot boy and a very hot dog. So I let them come in and Joseph wanted to give the dog a treat for being so good. And you can see what he did.

Shaddow sat when Joseph said, and took the treat nicely right out of his hand. Now Trever on the other hand .... I just can't get him to understand that he is the one teaching the dog to treat him like a big chew toy. I think some weird part of him kind of likes it. I just hope they will both grow out of it before someone gets hurt.

11 Years

2008-06-17T12:50:00.003-07:00

I can't believe that we have been married 11 years. Most days it feels alot longer than that. We have had a very busy and somewhat stressful 11 years. I am so greatful that we have had them and look forward to many more. I guess 11 years to me means that this is not only the most recent pic of us together, it is the only one, since we have had kids. I guess one of us is usually using the camera. Well, I just wanted to let everyone know that I am proud of my husband and I love him very much. I am so greatful that he has worked so hard to be here and do all that he does. Happy anniversary. (Note: for our actual anniversary I had surgery and Jason took care of the kids. FUN)

Dad's Birthday

2008-06-09T09:10:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Dad! I hope your birthday was something to be remembered. I know that most of my readers know my dad, and that those who don't might think they do for how much I talk about him and quote him. But for those who don't, let me just say for the record that He is the best. I know that most think that about their dads, so I will give some proof. I have been a daddys girl for as long as I can remember. I have always been emensly proud of him. He is my hero and has been a hero to many. I remember standing outside our apt in Buhl on a dark night. I must have been 3 or 4. We could see what appeared to be a head bobbing up and down in the front room of the apt. I remember my dad showing up in his uniform and telling us to stay put. Soon he came out of the house with a balloon and told me we were all very silly to be afraid of a balloon. I remember his smile on so many occasions that lightened the mood and helped us all to find happiness. I remember him letting us try to ride the cow, and laughing at Terry and I as we pretended to be cows and actually tried the cow lick. I was always so proud that he was a police man and I loved his stories. (Ok except the ones he told to scare me straight as a teenager)
Some of the most important lessons he has taught me are: Progression means that we try to be better with our children that our parents were with us. As our family progresses and gets better we perfect our ancestors. and If you are living the best you can and asking for the Lords help, He will guide your life, even if your path does not appear to follow the way you thought. Each path is different and just because it is different doesn't mean the Lord is not guiding it. and Heavenly Father does not stop all bad things from happening just because we pray for it. This life is a mortal one and is meant to be a trial. If we are to gain glory with our Father in Heaven, we must endure the trials of mortality. and there are really so many more. He taught me the power of a good laugh, and not to be so hard on myself. (ok dad, I still struggle with that, but I am trying)
Well, I miss my dad every day. He was my best friend for a long time. He taught me to be independant, but I still need him and often ask myself what he would do or what he would tell me if he were here. I remember many many nights of writing English papers or math homework in front of a good movie with my dad after work. I remember him rubbing my feet and vice versa. I now know what a great service that was. I truely miss things like........him calling me back up the stairs at 12:00 Am to ask me how far I would be if he hadn't called me back, and telling me to spit in one hand and want in the other to see which filled up faster and especially where to find sympathy in the dictionary. I could go on and on, but I don't want this to sound like an obituary. He is still kicking and is as busy and fun as ever. (Note the four wheeler rides he took the boys on) Here is to another 60 great years dad. (and I didn't even touch what a great Grandpa he is.) I love you.

Broken bones are no fun

2008-06-09T09:02:00.000-07:00

Caleb mentioned on the way to the Dr. that he had secretly wanted a broken arm to see what it was like, and to get the attention. Now he totally regrets that wish. I think every kid between 6 and 11 sometimes wants to know what a broken bone is like. Over the last week and a half Caleb has really begun to hate having a broken arm. His cousin Garrett broke his arm also, a couple of days before Caleb did. They were both very happy to have some company in their misery.

Broken

2008-05-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

Well, I knew it was only a matter of time.......We took another trip to the E.R. last night. When Caleb was younger he was never one to take risks. In fact I often had to urge him to be brave and try new things. It took me by surprise to find his wrist not only broken but displaced as well. He was playing on the monkey bars out back, and just dismounted wrong . We were on our way to a family birthday party, I was just telling everyone to load up, and I hear Caleb screaming. He was pretty hysterical, at first. I knew by the look of his twisted left wrist that it was broken. He asked his dad for a blessing, afterwhich he was much calmer. When he found out they might have to do surgery to fix it, he was verry upset again, but then had us say another prayer. He calmed down, and did very well. He even handled the x-rays pretty well. And those aren't gentle. Anyway lon story short, they sedated him and were able to set the bone back in place. He is in a splint for the next week, and will then move to a cast for four to six weeks. What a way to kick off the summer! I feel so bad for him and wish I could make it feel better. I have pics from the hospital on my phone and when I figure out how to get them on the computer I'll post a few.

Babies

2008-05-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

Well, Shadow is the name that was given finally to our puppy. She is doing much better at night now, and I only had to get up once with her for the potty last night. She is getting quite alot of attention not only from Caleb, Trever and Joseph, but from all the neighborhood boys as well. I still can't believe Joseph. Two weeks before we got her he would go into hysterics at the sight of a dog. And now is totally fine with most dogs.
We also brought our little girl home from the Hospital this week. She is doing really well and we were vey glad she worked so hard and got off all tubes and monitors before coming home. She is a sweet little angel and we are all loving having her home with us.
So what are everyones plans for the summer????? I need some good ideas to keep my kids busy and happy, and not in front of the tv or x box all summer.

Puppies

2008-05-18T20:19:00.000-07:00

Ok folks, how long does the crying and howling last? This is our fourth night and I am getting sleep deprived. The boys all sleep straight through the noise, and yes the mommy is left to take care of the baby. It is a good thing I like dogs. But really how long does it last?

New......

2008-05-15T13:43:00.000-07:00

This is what we have been up to this last week. This little girl was born pretty early and is still in the hospital. She is most likely going to go with her aunt, but for now we are visiting her in the hospital trying to help her feel loved and cared for. It is fun to hold such a tiny and sweet little baby.

And this sweet little girl is the newest addition to the family. She is almost 8 weeks old and we just brought her home today. So, we need a name for her. Right now she is very calm, ok afraid and not hyper at all. She is a lab mix. Everybody let me know your ideas for a name. If these aren't pictures of a very busy house hold I don't know what is.

More Vacation

2008-05-07T20:30:00.001-07:00

Ok, I had to include a shot with Jason in it. He was there, and we all had a good time. Here he is rescuing poor Joseph from the waves and a dog. The dog was on a leash and not even paying any attention to us, but poor Joseph was sure the dog was going to eat him and his bucket, and his shoes. Tell me how we are ever going to get a dog for Caleb when Joseph is so terrified of them. This is some of the cousins at the big stump. It is an ancient stump that was washed ashore a long time ago. It was pretty cool. And yes that is construction in the background. Even on vacation we have to be right next to the construction. Seriously, our yurt is only about a one minute walk from here.

This is my ALL BOY Trever. Keri took us on a nature walk and we found a newt. All the kids held it..... except Joseph, but Trever had to kiss it. Lets just say that I prefer kisses on the cheek instead of the lips from my darling Trever. I took a few minutes on Thurs day morning to try and get some good pictures of the ocean. Caleb came with me and this is one of my favorite shots.
I have lots of pictures of the Aquarium , but this was my favorite creature that we saw. It is a Japaniese spider crab. Totally amazing. The whole time we were on this trip, I missed diving. I remember the time I went diving in Puget sound. The ocean facinates me. I will choose warmer waters to dive in next time though.

Vacation

2008-05-07T20:15:00.003-07:00

This is how we started our trip to the Oregon Coast. It was a long ride, and mom and dad were ever so greatful for the wonderful technology of portable Dvd players, game boys, and leap pads. Each stop we made, the kids would have to sing abc's, count to 20, do the 7's times tables and tell me three things they saw that were different from home, before I would let them turn the movie back on. (I am an evil and cruel mother I know.) The entire 853 miles to the campsite at Beverly Beach State park Joseph kept asking....."Are we on our twip" I would say "yes honey, this our trip" He would then adamately insist that he have his bucket that I had purchased for the trip to the beach. He learned how to say Idaho, Utah and Oregon as well as finially ....... the beach where he was givin his bucket. He could not have been happier.
This is the Yurt we stayed in. It had electricity and a light in it as well as a pretty good heater. This one also came complete with a racoon living under it. He growled at Caleb and I one night as we came out to go to the bathrooms. When we came back he was slinking under the yurt. All night long I heard him dragging and trying to get into various plastic things that he was finding elsewhere in the campsite. The next morning, while we were eating breakfast, he came back. I swear I could read his thoughts. "If there were only three of you instead of four, I would seriously take you on." (Jason was having a shower)

The ocean was very very cold, but the kids loved to run from the waves anyway. It never pored rain on us, but it never did get really warm either. The sky in this picture is about the best shot of the sun I had.

Hanging in There

2008-04-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

Well, our dear little boy has returned to his great Grandma. We have all been a little sad this week. Our prayers will always be with him and all of our children....especially the ones that aren't living with us. On top of that I just finished taxes. Though it could have been worse, it was not as pleasant as it could have been either. And as if that weren't enough, the tredmill is truely kicking my butt. I am pretty sure the machine is evil and only thrives on my pain. Tomorrow we go to Kindergarten round up for Trever. He is soooooo very excited. I am happy for him, and am praying that he will have a good schooling experience. What a journey.
Well, I thought I would get the negitives out of the way. I intend to get some cute pics, and fun stories to post next. Please everyone pray for spring. I can't stand the cold any more.

Being mom is often a gross job

2008-03-19T17:17:00.000-07:00

Ok, I guess I am looking for some sympathy, or maybe just misery loves company, so I thought I would share. We have had another round of the the cold junk going through the house. Trever just gets really stuffy, and has a cough. Joseph.......my dear boy. I really need him to find a clue and some desire in the potty training department. Nasty Nasty (toxic waste type) diapers. Then the nose......Well, then the baby got it. He is so stuffy, the dr. gave us a machine to suck the grossness out with. Seriously, this machine is just about as big as the baby is and sucks at about 4lbs of pressure. Now you all should be thankfull I am not really using my adjectives well, and going in to detail. Bottom line here is that I am sleep deprived and if someone throws up in the next day or so I will have covered evey gooey nasty ooze they can put out. I thought CNA's took care of this kind of stuff. Have you ever noticed that kids can't keep their fingers out of their faces, or yours when they are sick...... so yes, now I am getting it...........all. At least I can say I taught my kids to share.
I guess Trever and Joseph needed a break from being sick today. They both took off their clothes to play Wild Animal Kingdom. All I can say is that We are all so very glad that, thought tigers, bears, snakes, cats and dogs do not wear clothes, they do wear underware. : ) Then the kids found a pen (I am usually very careful to hide all things like this) and decided to brand the animals. They don't color their coloring pages this thouroughly. The entire time, their was laughing and pretending going on and no screaming or fighting. When they got bored they decided to ransack the house and dump every toy out of every organized place. By noon they were ready for a rest time with a show, and I was ready for a cleaning lady. Oh yea..... thats me. At least my kids had a fun day, and I was too tired to ruin it by yelling at them about the mess.

Happy Birthday Trever

2008-03-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast they grow. Trever is now five. He still has the same "I am always up to something" grin. Just watching him makes me smile......ok there are times I want to pull my hair out too, but He is a great kid. He used to be so little. And now he is really growing up.
Trever can always come up with something silly to make us all laugh. We are all so greatful to have Trever.

Update

2008-02-26T21:05:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know it has been forever since I posted anything. Life has been a little crazy........ even for me. Our dear Mia went back to her birth parents the second week of Jan. Three weeks later she came to visit for three days. Then we got our little A.J. who is two and a half months old. He is soooooo cute. The bluest eyes I have ever seen. We thought that he would just be passing through and be back with his birth family in about 72 hours, but he has been here now for two weeks. We are enjoying every minute. Then little Collin was born (April's) and I got to go and spend the weekend with the California clan. Ok, so it rained the entire time I was there. But it was a good 20 degrees warmer than here in Ut. and it was sooooo quiet. Yes, poor Daddy got to have all four of the boys to himself for 4 days. He did great, and Thank you so very much to all of his family who helped out. Collin is just adorable, and Ashlyn and I had a great time cooking and making cookies. I am just so glad to have my sister April in my life. I love her to death.
The boys are all doing well. They seemed to miss me while I was gone, but the morning I was back they were more interrested in what I had brought them, than in me being there. I am glad they felt secure that I would come back to them and had confidence in their dad.
On a funny note, Caleb is really into his look lately.....especially his hair. Tonight he took a very long shower and then came out with quite the slick hair do. I asked what he put in his hair and he said Gel. Since we don't have any hair gel, I was immediately nervous. ......So it was Deoderant (mens shower cool quick drying gel). He didn't just use a little either. Well, I will try to get some pics on here soon, but for now it is bed time.

Snow and more Snow

2008-01-18T13:22:00.003-08:00

Ok, this is what we have.... snow, snow and I hear that more is coming. Now don't get me wrong, I am greatful to be getting the water for the summer. Caleb is having fun with all the snow, but Trever and Joseph take about a half an hour to get bundled up, and then spend about 10 min. outside. Then it takes another 30 min. to get them warm and the mess cleaned up.
This is what I am wishing for about now. Well, I hope you are all staying warm and that we will all survive the artic blast over the next few weeks.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-28T19:04:00.000-08:00

Trever and Joseph had a good little talk with Santa a few days before Christmas.
I am glad that I was protected by the back door when they let the snowballs fly.
Everyone was very happy with the new matching pj's and rice bags on Christmas Eve.
And Santa seemed to get the message the boys gave him, and brought just what everyone always wanted. We had a very good Christmas and we hope that you all did the same.

Holiday songs

2007-12-28T18:10:00.000-08:00

I have enjoyed each of the kids at about age 3 singing their favorite Christmas carol.

Sleepy

2007-12-07T10:31:00.001-08:00

This post is for Jenny. You really don't want to see all the pictures of my kids sleeping in weird places or positions, but this one is pretty cute.... and recent. After I took this picture I went to do a load of laundry and discovered why he hadn't come up stairs to sit on my lap and say Hi to aunt Shai....... He had gotten into the laundry and there was soap every where. Aparently he had tried to wash his pants because they were half in the washer with soap on them. I guess he got distracted because it looked like he had started making pictures in the soap. This is just a cute picture of Trever my little indian. His preschool is so much fun.

Adventure with Caleb

2007-12-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

This is Calebs most recent basketball picture. Yes the hair was driving mom crazy, so he went to the barber. Of course he had to have pictures first to show off those locks. Ok, the adventure really has nothing to do with basketball. It just makes it better to have a current image of Caleb in your mind. It was about a week ago, and I had already had a pretty hecktic day. I had to report to jury duty that morning and fortunately the trial was put on hold. So I was home and things were starting to calm down. I was just starting to think about what to put on for dinner. It was 5 min. to 3 and I get a call from the school. The secretary said that Caleb had fallen and banged his head. She then said with audible concern in her voice that his eyes were black and blue and that someone needed to come to the school to see him. I hurried and called the neighbor who came over to watch the kids and I ran up to the school. Now we had just had an incident at scouts where one of the boys ran into a chalk board and fell banging his head and he was transported to the hospital via ambulance with a mild concussion. So I go running up to the school telling myself not to panic. Panic never helped anyone. I get to the nurses room and Caleb is so still. They having his head on an ice bag and his feel proped up. He is quiet and not moving a muscle. His eyes, lid and underneath are black blue, and a hint of purple. He looks terrified. The secretary is bodering on panic. I sat down and felt his head..... no goose egg. I asked him what happened and as he is laying there, he tells me the story..... I could hear him, and I knew he was making sense as he told the story, but it just didn't register. I just kept looking at those eyes. Then I just picked up his hands and looked at his hands. There was marker all over his fingers. I had the secretary get me a wet paper towel, and the black and blue eyes wiped clean off. The principal was great and so very releived. He said he had never come so close to a heart attack over marker. Well everyone was relieved. Caleb then started to cry and said he was just so scared he would have to go to the hospital. The secretary kept asking how I knew that it was marker. I still really don't know other than, I just felt what to do. Aparently Heavenly Father knew that taking my son to the hospital and panic over marker just might have done me in, so he helped me out. Later that evening Caleb came clean and told me that he had tried to make his eyes black and blue, but that he didn't think it had worked. He was so afraid he was going to be in trouble. Well I guess the moral of the story is, when everyone around you is in a panic, take the time to just look and feel. I just might be marker.

Poll

2007-11-13T12:25:00.000-08:00

Ok, I only have a minute..... a messy diaper is calling. It is amazing what I will answer. : ) Anyway, I am starting to get my Holiday baking scheduled. I want to know who out there likes Grandma Mencl's Christmas Bread. I admit, I hated it when we were growing up, but I really have been craving it lately. So I am making some this year. If you don't respond to this poll, you might end up with some when you don't like it and you may not get any when you really would like some. I am also excited to make Grandma Thueson's Olympia creams, and of course a Pumpkin roll. I think this year I will be making Pinwheels, and Christmas Star cookies as well. So anyone who wants to come baking with me come on over and do let me know your favorites so I can include them in your packages.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Trick or Treat

2007-11-02T18:03:00.001-07:00

Jason and Mia decided tobe the ones to stay home and pass out candy to the trick or treaters, so me and the boys set out with Jana Tabor and her boys from next door. Some of us are very glad that Halloween comes only once a year. On the up side, everyone slept really long and hard that night. They all were very happy with their costumes and very excited about the loot they gained. Joseph just kept saying, " Mom, they gave me candy!!!!!!"

Happy Halloween

2007-11-02T17:52:00.001-07:00

This is the corn maze went to this year. We actually went twice. The first time we went with the ward primary, the second time we went with Trever on his preschool field trip. The slide was kickin'. Caleb and Trever would fearlessly run all the way to the top, and launch themselves down the slide in any direction. Joseph however was very timid. Being the good mom I am.....(ok it is more like the crazy mom I am) Mia, Mom and Joseph all went down together. I must tell you that it is one very tall, very quick slide.
We all had alot of fun, but missed Jason very much, as he had to work both times.

Big Man

2007-10-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

The other day I set the juice out to get the boys a drink and got called into the bathroom to help Trever. When I got back Joseph was sitting on the counter, helping himself to the juice. Apparently he just couldn't wait. Terry, Pat, this scene reminded me immediately of you both, only you were a little bigger and standing in front of the open fridge with a milk jug. My Joseph is a mans man already. I have to teach the kid to use a glass, he personalizes anything he drinks with very visable backwash. YUM!

Trever The Fierce

2007-10-25T08:53:00.000-07:00

Trever is going to his school Halloween party

today. He is excited to take the cookies to decorate

and to be a pirate. He also loves to see himself on video.

Personally I think a pirate is fitting. He often tries to mutany on me.

2007-10-10T10:14:00.000-07:00

Trever had his first day of preschool a couple of weeks ago. He loves school, and asks every day if it is a school day. He absolutely loves Mrs. Sara. We personally think she is a bit nuts to try recorders with 3 and 4 yr. olds on the first day of preschool, but I guess a little crazy is just what these kids need. We love Mrs. Sara. A big thank you for all you do.

2007-10-10T10:01:00.000-07:00

We had a fun trip to Twin Falls over Conference weekend. It was very rainy the first day, but lucky enough it dried up and Saturday the kids all went to the Pumpkin patch. They had fun, even if it was really really cold.
One of the big favorites is the Tractor train ride. They all had to go at least twice. It wasn't very crowded at all so they didn't have to wait in line.
The beauticians, Andrea and Tiana just had to give the boys, Andrew and Caleb their cool dude mohawks. And Grandma had pleanty of carmel apple suckers to go around. After such a busy day, they all wanted to watch a movie. Good thing Grandma and Grandpa have such a big couch.

Entertainment

2007-09-04T13:14:00.001-07:00

When your a very active boy, and mom is busy .......making dinner, feeding the baby, going to the bathroom....... here are some things you can to to entertain yourself. This first one is called "The Stair Slide". Believe it or not, mom actually let us continue. Maybe because we were actually laughing and playing good together...... or maybe just because she is an awesome mom. At least it is slower than sleeping bags.
This one is called "The superhero run". You have your mom tie a dupe (burp) diaper around your neck like a cape, pick your favorite superhero who's name ends with man, and run up and down the hall shouting his name as if you are his sole source of advertising. Mom also let us continue with this game. She is soooooo cool. Yea ok, it made us a little tired, and the rest of the evening we didn't even have enough energy to fight, but it is soo much fun.

Now this game, called "Surprise" was not really so keen with mom. It was at first, until Joseph jumped....yes right on guess who. I tried to tell mom he has been earning it for a while now, but she still said I can't flatten my brother, at least not while she can prevent it and he isn't activily asking for it.

Now thats what I call Entertainment baby!!!!!

Birthday Boy

2007-08-30T13:06:00.001-07:00

Joseph was very excited to watch me decorate his cake. He has loved playing with his animals. He liked the mouths full of frosting mom spoiled him with een more. What a treat- a- holic.
We successfully kept the other kids out of the way and he got to blow out the candles all by himself.

We had all the Palmers over for dinner then presents, cake and ice cream. He finally started to understand that it was his birthday alone and not Trever's and Caleb's too when he was eating his cake. Too bad I didn't get the camera out when he was eating his cheetos with dinner...... that was the messy photo. Aunt Shai gave moms favorite gift. Josephs very own water bottle. Anyone who knows Joseph knows he is a drink steeler and drink hog. He also backwashes something fierce, so his own bottle is great. The trick now it to convince Trever to leave all of Josephs new things alone.
Happy Happy Third Birthday to our dear Joseph.

Back To School

2007-08-27T09:57:00.001-07:00

Here is Caleb holding Mia one last time before heading off to school. And notice he has a real smile on his face. He usually does when he gets to hold his sister. He is a big help and loves to feed her bottles and even burp her. When ever I get out the camera Trever has to be in the picture. Caleb is heading off to Third grade. He has Mrs. Hyde, and says she is a fun teacher.
Heres the side shot to show his back pack and his new "must have" cool shoes. He also wants to grow his hair out of a buzz to be "cooler" this year. I don't know if I can handle the peer pressure. (And Yes, Joseph had just gotten out of bed and hadn't coughed up the binki yet. I just can't bear to take away such a good friend. He only has it at bed time, and we are working on that.)

Sick,Sick, Sick.

2007-08-24T13:22:00.000-07:00

Well, We are slowly coming to our senses again after all the illness that has gone through lately. Joseph started with a stomach bug. Then Caleb came down with Strep and the stomach bug. He is good at sharing, so Jason next got it all and then mom got sick, and when that happens the whole world seems in trouble. Our biggest problem was when Mia got sick. She had a urinary tract infection. Because her fever was so high, and she is so little, they started with blood work, urine sample, and a spinal tap. For three days, Mom and Mia spent hours in the Dr. office, and hospital getting lab work. Finally after the third shot of antibiotics she is feeling much better. We all seem to be on the mend now and are hoping that we have had our turn at the sick bug for a while. Caleb has started Third grade and likes his new teacher. He likes school and is excited to be back at it. He is also taking piano again. Trever starts school on the eleventh. We are all excited for his school to start. Miss Sara is so fun and she is even going to start teaching them recorders this year. What a good teacher (crazy lady).

A Vacation

2007-08-16T07:44:00.000-07:00

Our Vacation with the Thueson family was so much fun. We actually ended the vacation with a tour of the temple square and the conference center. We also saw the new church film, Joseph Smith Prophet of the Restoration. It was very good, but a tear jerker. This is actually the roof of the conference Center. The fountain is directly over the podium so that President Hinkley will be the first to know if there is a leak. Here is Caleb and Trever with the Prophet Joseph Smith. I think they both could learn a thing or two about work from him.
The first day we went the the tree house museum. I of course forgot my camera, but the kids had a blast with all the fun toys, and I enjoyed the fact that I didn't have to pick them up. On Thursday, we went to the Dinosaur Museum. We all enjoyed it. Joseph was scared the whole time and since I was carying the baby, insisted that Aunt Ana or Uncle Terry carry him. We also went the the water park that day to cool off. Joseph would swim, and Mia is too little but everyone else at least got wet. Caleb even braved the heights and went off the high dive. That night, the kids had their favorite sitter come over and the adults went to Borne Ultimatum. It was a very fun day.

Friday we all went to Lagoon. We all had fun and went home completely exhausted. Thanks Terry, Ana and all for including us in your vacation. We all had fun, and really enjoyed spending time with your family. Lets do it again.

Sun Valley Ice Show and Dinner

2007-08-06T10:59:00.000-07:00

I am not sure which was better, the dinner or the ice show or the concert before the dinner. We had so much fun this weekend. Pat, Jan, Ana, and Terry sat at one table and Jason, Me, Mom and Dad sat at another. The raspberries and other fruit was to die for. They had wonderful crusty rolls and all kinds of cheeses. My favorite was the brie.......oooohhhhh so good. They had shrimp and crab legs and salmon, steak, prime rib...... vegies that I couldn't even name. It was truely a great dinner. Before the dinner we listened to the Sun Valley Symphony and they played American classics.... Gershwin etc. I so enjoyed it. They sounded surpurb . It made Jason and I miss playing in the orchestras. It was interresting to sit outside and listen to such good music, and all around us people we sitting on blankets or lawn chairs drinking wine, eating fine cheeses...... quite interresting.
Even though it was moms birthday, It was a gift to us all to share the fun evening. Happy Birthday mom. The few pictures I had of the ice skating didn't turn out very good. It was fun to see Emily Hughes. I enjoyed the couples skating most, but the trick skaters with the hulahoop and the fire was pretty entertaining.

Baby Fever

2007-07-25T08:29:00.000-07:00

Well, we are all really enjoying our little Mia. She is a very quiet baby, only crying when she spit up alot, and when she had to have a blood draw to check her jandice. She is very alert when she is awake. She just takes it all in. Mom thinks she is just perfect. Caleb loves to hold her and feed her. He is a big help to mom. Trever loves her too. He loves to kiss her soft cheek, and help mom by getting a diaper or wipes, or blankets.
Joseph goes around the house with his hands together saying "hold her" "Hold her" and he is constantly thinking she is awake. We are all smitten by the princess.

New Bundle of Joy

2007-07-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Joseph when we brought him home from the hospital. I am not able to post a picture of our new bundle, but it looks similar...... just add more dark hair, and a little bit smaller. Our Meia is 6Lbs 8oz. and 19 inches. She is very quiet and does not fuss much at all. Again soooooo different from Joseph. Plus we put her in as much pink as poor Caleb can stand. He's not a big pink fan, but he loves to hold and help feed Meia. Can't wait till you all can see how perfectly beautiful she is.

A Good Mom....

2007-07-19T08:46:00.001-07:00

It was 97 degrees, and we were all so hot. But what a fun time we had at the Hoagle Zoo. We went with Aunt Shai, Gabe and Regane. We packed sandwhiches and some snacks. It was a very good thing that the food booths refilled our water bottles for free. We were not only drinking them, but pooring them on our selves to try and cool off a little.

The first thing we did was watch the elephant show. I have never seen inside an elephants mouth.... what a tongue.

The kids all liked the Giraffs. Trever wanted to ride one. Who could have guessed? Caleb and Regane were the only ones that would get in the picture with the Giraffs.
We all enjoyed the rest to our feet with a train ride. Then we decided the best way to end a trip to the zoo was with ice cream. Diary Queen still makes the best dipped cones and blizzards. I figure that now I have photographic proof that I love my children. It is a good mom that takes her children to the zoo. We had so much fun. Thanks aunt Shai for taking us.

Camping Two

2007-07-17T14:12:00.000-07:00

We all really enjoyed our trip to Willard Bay with the Bartschi family. Caleb was definately in heaven, as he loves camping and never seems to get enough time with Bryce. They loved playing in the water together, and they were able to duel with light sabers to their hearts content.
Bryce was very quick at learning how to row the boat. Caleb was very quick to let him as he was riding look out. Now exactly who was the smarter?????

Joseph was a drink thief. He would very quietly go around to all the drinks that were left unattended and take a swig.....or two or three. Jan was our camera bug. She always takes such good pictures. We are glad to have her snapping away .....most of the time. I will have a few more pics for you to see when I learn how to get them off of Jans camera. : )
Thanks Bartschi's and lets do it again next year.

Camping

2007-07-17T13:57:00.001-07:00

We have actually made it to two camping trips this year. The kids are thrilled to go as often as we take them. Even the sleep deprived parents have decided to try and go more often.

The Palmer trip was really fun this year. We really like Pine View. The water was perfect. Caleb had a blast as usual. We made sure that Trever and Caleb had life jackets. It gave them such feedom and they are really getting to be good swimmers. Our dear Joseph was just as happy as a "clam". He dug in the sand and ate what ever treats anyone got out. Just don't ask him to go in the water......... do do do do. (jaws)

A Start

2007-07-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

I am a real novice to this, but it is so fun to see what is happening with everyone on their blogs that I wanted to do one too.

We are having a pretty good summer. Trever and Joseph love being outside and love to help Dad. He is such a good dad, he lets them. Caleb is having fun with the neighbor kids and Bryce every chance he gets. He and Trever have discovered another hero...... Zoro. They love to run around the house playing Zoro, with a little tag along Joseph right behind them.