tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-226192112024-03-07T22:03:23.308-06:00Green BluebirdsWe're relatively new Missourians. Our state bird is the bluebird, so that's where the name comes from. This is a blog where I post about my kids, my projects, and anything else on my mind. Welcome to our nest!Paulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18336930396176627693noreply@blogger.comBlogger653125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-17432154612246792462015-05-15T14:31:00.003-05:002015-05-17T22:24:27.924-05:00Momentum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
About three months ago, I was approached by a friend, wondering if I could help her out with a mural she was coordinating for her daughter's band teacher. I said I'd be happy to do it, then all but forgot about it while I waited for her to give me more specifics. When she finally gave me the dozens of pictures and ideas that she had for me to work from, I had about a week to make it happen. (!!) Lucky for her, I work pretty well under pressure...I was practically the queen of procrastination, growing up. ;)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have to say, it was fun picking out art supplies for the project, setting up my own space, and carving out as much time as I could that week. I don't know why it's so hard for me to make creative time for myself, but this commission got me thinking that I really need to. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPX8g6KWxFjUmeVd8B8ZG9SHaJeqkT-WTosU2ArxzmbLMosC8qRSk1j4uu6NHJOmRKvcSb6OL4wrqargQjBEWqH_9QENpJDPv8xPGSCG8magkUHJ4vjCkSiFvvjSoTIL0JrATtuA/s1600/IMG_20150428_161004364_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPX8g6KWxFjUmeVd8B8ZG9SHaJeqkT-WTosU2ArxzmbLMosC8qRSk1j4uu6NHJOmRKvcSb6OL4wrqargQjBEWqH_9QENpJDPv8xPGSCG8magkUHJ4vjCkSiFvvjSoTIL0JrATtuA/s320/IMG_20150428_161004364_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I set up the dining room as my mock studio, since it was easy to work on and off in there, and there was plenty of natural light. Plus, we hardly ever use that room, so it didn't really disrupt our lives too much. Which is what got me thinking, why don't we just make this permanent?! So we'll make it our occasional dining room, with storage and everything I need for my studio. Something kind of like this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKbFFKbx6rdKX2tK7NXcUI3vX-OXaYumaf5iOHaYad13YNDiPsJ_nKya7izPGXOKOYsNv7lmixv0iCkAIHgNUYs4p-S_YA_i8YxLLn5IubyfLCYJlvy59m4U-enLm0IIipkd1kQ/s1600/2d28a3dc520dab0231b208ca51d74838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKbFFKbx6rdKX2tK7NXcUI3vX-OXaYumaf5iOHaYad13YNDiPsJ_nKya7izPGXOKOYsNv7lmixv0iCkAIHgNUYs4p-S_YA_i8YxLLn5IubyfLCYJlvy59m4U-enLm0IIipkd1kQ/s320/2d28a3dc520dab0231b208ca51d74838.jpg" width="221" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://jeanneoliverdesigns.com/blog/2014/06/04/art-studio-makeover/">{source}</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Beautiful, right? I could definitely produce good stuff in a space like that. Plus, it looks "normal" enough to use as a dining room when needed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCWdOFoCJ-0GiuCzshSa50a4Jv-YBN61U6JxLU_kL0BJkJ4upOqw9W7_wP4eDTjdpL8c8aI8KPTrW6sUJJ4r-iT6dHmMQ_sZ4JV7je67AhXVJzzrHQ6YbhKiChYD5J_yZYB6-1w/s1600/IMG_20150505_174804641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCWdOFoCJ-0GiuCzshSa50a4Jv-YBN61U6JxLU_kL0BJkJ4upOqw9W7_wP4eDTjdpL8c8aI8KPTrW6sUJJ4r-iT6dHmMQ_sZ4JV7je67AhXVJzzrHQ6YbhKiChYD5J_yZYB6-1w/s320/IMG_20150505_174804641.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I did two big pieces for the band teacher- one 2'x2' mural of the band in marching formation.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh81_gpE3OQ4o0vrzJ_Wv6PG2dS9A_T2_muOwvSHnbrJ-bqS-1G5BNSeNV0AInAMkuzbYsatTSKDFYCyQ8PBAU3CP31en6ZT4B9SEy0DhkO1N2-HJ8c1VfQUWlgZTZyyLNQCW_yyg/s1600/IMG_20150505_174830424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh81_gpE3OQ4o0vrzJ_Wv6PG2dS9A_T2_muOwvSHnbrJ-bqS-1G5BNSeNV0AInAMkuzbYsatTSKDFYCyQ8PBAU3CP31en6ZT4B9SEy0DhkO1N2-HJ8c1VfQUWlgZTZyyLNQCW_yyg/s320/IMG_20150505_174830424.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
And one 2'x4' mural of the memories and trips the band has taken over the past decade or so.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQTJVfYgwfB6B5uic2uHQUTJ8f8PiSArtuhYyvYKacHmOD-bT_7NZI_9WvKvd5dtcdG5TYFaiMlsWL8Dskk0LEaAPZ72mvMCpJFDyUuYISz7phXknj4e9qvKeIo6kehVQA5pAQA/s1600/IMG_20150505_174902870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQTJVfYgwfB6B5uic2uHQUTJ8f8PiSArtuhYyvYKacHmOD-bT_7NZI_9WvKvd5dtcdG5TYFaiMlsWL8Dskk0LEaAPZ72mvMCpJFDyUuYISz7phXknj4e9qvKeIo6kehVQA5pAQA/s320/IMG_20150505_174902870.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Besides a suggested general layout and source material, I pretty much had creative control over this project. Their school color is purple, the other colors- including the metallics, I chose.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQxDasvkK4xW6jP-ZgWWdasjw5lemVVyv6lDcY2Bozt6sRID9KuRWQ5mj0n5mhH55weE8DxEBHxhm9UZ95anT0ysEU6egoV8HmswSVW4Dr9xt8yUpDzEgIkhOczhbiKxBE31FKg/s1600/IMG_20150505_174930905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQxDasvkK4xW6jP-ZgWWdasjw5lemVVyv6lDcY2Bozt6sRID9KuRWQ5mj0n5mhH55weE8DxEBHxhm9UZ95anT0ysEU6egoV8HmswSVW4Dr9xt8yUpDzEgIkhOczhbiKxBE31FKg/s320/IMG_20150505_174930905.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I think they turned out pretty well. Not that I'd hang them in my house, but I think they work for their intended purpose- at school, over their teacher's desks. The students all added their signatures around the borders, which I think was a meaningful touch.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbaF2pmV7v1jRBsO21Z6F5OjQVM-oXuFqQRVdYyLOwvAM7UBaSt8iBJW9_n3YRqYKNB2I7eedzbhM_9FH8QgOSDt33jAEqTaBrN4wDKSLE2zVo_E0o64LV_JLA4cuB6KrSt0cSQ/s1600/IMG_20150510_084835331_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbaF2pmV7v1jRBsO21Z6F5OjQVM-oXuFqQRVdYyLOwvAM7UBaSt8iBJW9_n3YRqYKNB2I7eedzbhM_9FH8QgOSDt33jAEqTaBrN4wDKSLE2zVo_E0o64LV_JLA4cuB6KrSt0cSQ/s320/IMG_20150510_084835331_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It was harder than I thought handing them off, mostly because it was such a rushed project. I really didn't have any time to sit and stew over it and change things. With all my new-found time, I felt like it was time to get moving on house projects. And I have! I've painted our foyer, the front door (on the inside), and bought a new rug and light with the money I earned. I started building a pair of stools to go under the console in the entry too, inspired by some <a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/product/53431/3812101">pretty upholstered ones</a> I saw on One King's Lane. I've also gotten to work painting our fireplace, the upstairs bathroom (which is still awaiting tile), and finalizing colors for the main living areas.<br />
<br />
Paul must have noticed my new found zeal to get things done, because he gave me an air compressor and nail gun for Mother's day!! Now board and batten in the dining room (er, studio) can happen! And crown molding throughout the rest of the house!! I'm loving having something to work on (besides laundry and dishes) and having real progress to show for it. I'll have to post an update of the foyer once it's finished. Hooray for projects!<br />
<br />
p.s. Thank you for all of your kind comments on my last post! I think it's a topic that I might have felt too taboo talking about a few years ago, but I'm coming to realize how healing it is to share these experiences. I'm grateful to have so many strong, supportive women in my life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-71885787113643452682015-04-23T14:28:00.001-05:002015-04-23T20:32:53.912-05:00Moving Forward<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic; line-height: 24px;">"Godly fear is loving and trusting in Him. As we fear God more completely, we love Him more perfectly."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">—David A. Bednar, "</span><a class="yiv1106982254" href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2015/04/therefore-they-hushed-their-fears?lang=eng" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1429838144899_5908" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-family: Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: black;">Therefore They Hushed Their Fears</span></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">"</span></div>
<br />
The app on my phone sent me a reminder this morning, 12 weeks. I'm still trying to figure out how to shut it off. About a week ago, and just days after telling family and a few close friends, the heart beat and the tiny squirmy body that was once growing inside of mine suddenly wasn't. At first I was numb, rationally telling myself I had seen this coming all along. But the wave of emotion didn't take long before it engulfed any defensive walls I'd put up.<br />
<br />
<div>
Almost exactly two years ago, I held Lydia for the first time. It was a moment of instant love and adoration for this perfect baby who I finally got to meet after an uncomfortable nine months. But that moment was quickly followed by an overwhelming feeling that we weren't done. It was terrifying. Terrifying enough that I never mentioned that feeling to Paul for a few months. I remember his expression of shock, because he had had those impressions too, but would NEVER had brought it up if I hadn't. It was a scary moment for us, but we just sort of tucked that fear away for a later date. Right now we had four kids. We were adjusting our lives to care for<i> four </i>tiny human beings, and that was enough.<br />
<br />
There's a popular thread that's been going around Facebook for a while now about so-called "good samaritans" calling the cops on "bad mothers" who leave their kids unattended for brief periods of time. As outlandish and far-removed as these reports sound, part of me wonders how long it will be before I'm brought in and questioned for seeming neglect. You see, I let my kids play outside, by themselves. I let the older boys wander off and play in the nearby woods where I can't see them. I often leave Lydia in her crib while I walk across the street to the bus stop. Obviously, I physically can't helicopter my kids like our culture seems to demand, but don't intend to either. Adding one more child to our circus still scares me, but for even more reasons than it once did. I'm sure we are already being scrutinized for our bare feet, dirty faces and lack of constant supervision. The attack on the family really is starting to feel crushing, and I sometimes have to remind myself why I'm in the fight.<br />
<br />
When we found out we were pregnant, it was a bit of a shock, but only because it came so fast. It felt like I'd just jumped into a rushing river, blindfolded, trusting that God had my back and that I would somehow make it to the other side with His help. I trusted His timing, and felt comforted in knowing that He knew what I needed more than I did. I kept waiting to <i>feel</i> pregnant, but never did. I was a little tired, but the morning sickness never came. I didn't want to complain about not feeling sick, but still, this was a little unsettling to me. At my first appointment, I requested an ultrasound just to see it for myself. When I saw the wiggling legs and arms and the regular heartbeat, those fears seemed to subside for a moment. That day, with some hesitation, I told our kids. Then I began to tell others, with that same unexplainable reticence. But for whatever reason, it never felt real the same way our other kids did.<br />
<br />
So it really didn't come as a huge surprise when I first knew that I was miscarrying. I scheduled a doctor's appointment for the next day, and came in to face the music. When it was confirmed that the baby was no longer alive, it finally hit me. I was a mess.<br />
<br />
Even in those really tough moments, it was obvious to me that this was an experience I was meant to have. I suddenly had much clearer eyes and deeper empathy for the many women in my life who I knew had also gone through this. That pain is real, and until that point, I had mostly taken pregnancy for granted. I was grateful for the simple reminder that God is in control, that He is the author of life - not me.<br />
<br />
I've come to understand my stewardship a little better. As much as I love my kids (and I really, really do!), I know that God's love for them is even more than I can comprehend. They are His, and I am entrusted with them for such a short, but vital time. I will be accountable to Him for any neglect or abuse. Kind of makes the societal pressures seem silly when I really think about it. It is amazing to know that He trusts me to care for another one of His children, whenever that might be. As for today, I am ok. I'm perhaps even a little relieved to have a moment to pause and reflect on why I'm crazy enough to want five children. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-71618702081961635032015-04-12T22:32:00.001-05:002015-04-12T22:32:16.052-05:00Baby Girl is TWO!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDVgIHdcKOvPYPQ48iMU7rJRXhfKDacoBkUuib6KL-oKrVRF2U-3UljuLKUYmtWOYPYqo96tag_sCEaBem_aF4rYL7VTkyTFcZ3adBLEY3q5nGu4zCZhpPclHReeVuEQHijsDBg/s1600/IMG_20130327_151342_644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDVgIHdcKOvPYPQ48iMU7rJRXhfKDacoBkUuib6KL-oKrVRF2U-3UljuLKUYmtWOYPYqo96tag_sCEaBem_aF4rYL7VTkyTFcZ3adBLEY3q5nGu4zCZhpPclHReeVuEQHijsDBg/s1600/IMG_20130327_151342_644.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's funny how much a child can change you in such a short period of time. Two years ago, I was the contended mother of three, wondering how on earth I was going to handle ANOTHER baby. Lydia came, that miraculous love instantly flowed, and our family has never been the same since. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_yrjiaDVivabmEwULjsw3V3TfPKcaKKmCfnljUAXlEZxRwKu3uF9sSSC5sXwqlAIINIyNQkBKBK5DkR-Ym6FOWElU0cAaeDBvBhjcBoeBFz7QJfiWSg-Omt7C0wJAwfebOAxRA/s1600/IMG_20150412_180505564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_yrjiaDVivabmEwULjsw3V3TfPKcaKKmCfnljUAXlEZxRwKu3uF9sSSC5sXwqlAIINIyNQkBKBK5DkR-Ym6FOWElU0cAaeDBvBhjcBoeBFz7QJfiWSg-Omt7C0wJAwfebOAxRA/s1600/IMG_20150412_180505564.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lydia has so much personality. She came to this earth ready to DO stuff. She is undeterred by her bigger brothers and sister, and generally rules the roost around here. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQamdF0evNFqeoCj7wwBsxmo0OKTWOpvMoc4llM8vrWk687yIHFDXTPO5u9iX7kiqcQrCSTVYQeTt8klFh5wNwGqKW3QPXecoa28YxUh-ShT7-qCB2nyAWp1EafoN_YvtUo1ZYPw/s1600/IMG_20150325_102824693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQamdF0evNFqeoCj7wwBsxmo0OKTWOpvMoc4llM8vrWk687yIHFDXTPO5u9iX7kiqcQrCSTVYQeTt8klFh5wNwGqKW3QPXecoa28YxUh-ShT7-qCB2nyAWp1EafoN_YvtUo1ZYPw/s1600/IMG_20150325_102824693.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Lydia is a huge fan of her older brothers, but mostly she wants to be with Nora all day. Nora is usually only bothered by this when she's trying to clean her room and Lydia is getting in the way, or when Lydia is demanding whatever it is that Nora is wearing or holding. But for the most part, these two cuddle muffins were made for each other. Lydia has the imagination and playfulness that Nora has missed out on, being the only 'big girl' in the family for so long.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfOlUBxSTW4IVDf9gZ9NX0ZXN07R6GSVr99XRg7uuGQJUqm6wEIeJS6OBazacdmaNOlUTM1hT_kQseWD7OA4KAKRiK0m4MIZyCecHjjAMsvjxRbKB_pqxpVzNRRqbC17DrZIb6Q/s1600/IMG_20150325_131354391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfOlUBxSTW4IVDf9gZ9NX0ZXN07R6GSVr99XRg7uuGQJUqm6wEIeJS6OBazacdmaNOlUTM1hT_kQseWD7OA4KAKRiK0m4MIZyCecHjjAMsvjxRbKB_pqxpVzNRRqbC17DrZIb6Q/s1600/IMG_20150325_131354391.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia also adores her Daddy, and gives the best hugs, accompanied by an enthusiastic "DADDYYYYY!!!" when she sees him walk through the door after work. She is really sensitive to who might be missing whenever we go places. Like if Paul is driving separately and she thinks we've left him, she'll wail for a good five minutes. Same with her siblings.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJYHNA6nIHImq00JUCzKnzpCYzQ_h_oZA5SavTaYXv1-E0gdOMzyeIzCkrUkB5yplURqdbTfEIJrbVPyJzI9H226r4LSvknAlgS55gu9dfHS_ddfat7IFvQowlumeMBODYztKxA/s1600/IMG_20150325_152104078_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJYHNA6nIHImq00JUCzKnzpCYzQ_h_oZA5SavTaYXv1-E0gdOMzyeIzCkrUkB5yplURqdbTfEIJrbVPyJzI9H226r4LSvknAlgS55gu9dfHS_ddfat7IFvQowlumeMBODYztKxA/s1600/IMG_20150325_152104078_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
This isn't a common thing (yet!) but Lydia has started refusing naps, and then usually takes them anyways when I'm not looking. When this happens, she's most often in her big reading chair with a giant pile of books scattered around her. That's her spot most mornings too. Her routine when she wakes up is very particular- Ben gets her out of her crib and leaves, she shuts her door behind him, then she goes to town "reading" her books for about a half hour. After that, she's ready to be social. But you don't mess with her before she's had that reading time! Seriously.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98EFgiNHp2v960Hiyr8H8LwDNrOe5umGfybt6sBZwOTDsY8M9fwVaWIYMESLOK98QFMIyW1YoqEXqO0m54KbM_PsNLTAiQxLT3LyE4detutHhLWFgLlzg_WuogXPS6iU8A4utIw/s1600/IMG_20150326_092043934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98EFgiNHp2v960Hiyr8H8LwDNrOe5umGfybt6sBZwOTDsY8M9fwVaWIYMESLOK98QFMIyW1YoqEXqO0m54KbM_PsNLTAiQxLT3LyE4detutHhLWFgLlzg_WuogXPS6iU8A4utIw/s1600/IMG_20150326_092043934.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Lydia is a builder. She loves her Duplos, so we got her a big set for her birthday. She was pretty excited to have more to work with!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipO_T92R5HgAy3vKO9KsmCeSgxEIZ8SV24Z_T_89z17lhm4AsvNXgKFWT0vzTPGva3xGBbeVFbYRjqxzROaUsvgYKAdE2vNxas4xqHFNc-9mRijpbHcPnkusgedqA6-T5IvG0Nqg/s1600/IMG_20150326_103945773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipO_T92R5HgAy3vKO9KsmCeSgxEIZ8SV24Z_T_89z17lhm4AsvNXgKFWT0vzTPGva3xGBbeVFbYRjqxzROaUsvgYKAdE2vNxas4xqHFNc-9mRijpbHcPnkusgedqA6-T5IvG0Nqg/s1600/IMG_20150326_103945773.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
The day of her birthday, I was also teaching Joy School here at our house. Lydia is usually pretty chill about this, and her birthday was no exception. (The last time we had it here was a different story...lots of drama)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxFlyUACMP04JAjkUDW4eXQo9EDIQ16qs9j8ve7gBuDOOihRUwACDga4EN8dQ-0CZAslAMEHbpH8byd_37mgT1Wjw3UgqNA5bOdTmXuheHbFat07R7d76zHWVOV7iNWjix91q_w/s1600/IMG_20150326_154526993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxFlyUACMP04JAjkUDW4eXQo9EDIQ16qs9j8ve7gBuDOOihRUwACDga4EN8dQ-0CZAslAMEHbpH8byd_37mgT1Wjw3UgqNA5bOdTmXuheHbFat07R7d76zHWVOV7iNWjix91q_w/s1600/IMG_20150326_154526993.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love how easy to please two year olds are in the present department. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJzpoggzbvqshRa06z59G8qESCFvUXwsEnIAaWwxzkbvRvmu015ok_U-CK8kAkd8A5m8dJNHfvXr7qPAfOQwD8hoquJxiIGIL3lSQ2qSE-COyeqlauzWlQXLd0_JD67BzLZ2Ibw/s1600/IMG_20150326_190149016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJzpoggzbvqshRa06z59G8qESCFvUXwsEnIAaWwxzkbvRvmu015ok_U-CK8kAkd8A5m8dJNHfvXr7qPAfOQwD8hoquJxiIGIL3lSQ2qSE-COyeqlauzWlQXLd0_JD67BzLZ2Ibw/s1600/IMG_20150326_190149016.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
She was so excited about all her presents.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3FXgUzSRR0NyDkYkLhKyPCFzD-jUO96j8ULe944WIhOIOknWtORn-BQX4XzR7WFh6hnUYmcRP8fJIFljNZ9NdfiOgbEDLMyQeNZ39J7lBelrNWnvh6ozUAE3lN-K6ycIiPiEnA/s1600/IMG_20150326_171947737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3FXgUzSRR0NyDkYkLhKyPCFzD-jUO96j8ULe944WIhOIOknWtORn-BQX4XzR7WFh6hnUYmcRP8fJIFljNZ9NdfiOgbEDLMyQeNZ39J7lBelrNWnvh6ozUAE3lN-K6ycIiPiEnA/s1600/IMG_20150326_171947737.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
For her cake, I used one of her presents (some Frozen figurines) to decorate it. The frosting wasn't much to look at, but it is a REALLY good recipe I recently got from a friend. Usually I'm not a fan of frosting, but this stuff kicks a 'meh' cake up a notch. Anyways. Back to Lydia... :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Np4IL9azgzoW8f6E_ks9pAeiyDYbvVoe0Clo2ZtFfVcxh5ZTDVrUSFtC48gnpGjcNnZsLRlvzRfm_QHvgZD9kZhFCboix-hgwjsJM6vjyErT4v5ZlAAtkeXg2eePDjU1cxILfw/s1600/IMG_20150326_173010294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Np4IL9azgzoW8f6E_ks9pAeiyDYbvVoe0Clo2ZtFfVcxh5ZTDVrUSFtC48gnpGjcNnZsLRlvzRfm_QHvgZD9kZhFCboix-hgwjsJM6vjyErT4v5ZlAAtkeXg2eePDjU1cxILfw/s1600/IMG_20150326_173010294.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
When she saw the cake for the first time, she kept saying "Olas!" over and over. She had been talking about birthday cake for weeks and weeks, and was thrilled when she finally had one!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzb1ZLZLx3tzucrvyW8_jORcEf-ppiIuQYaVi_tSg7ZwFHFKICnU7o-Tigfd1-Cu5-E-sd24AFzihcfkJTFgEEfqG45LCTFjyx5GZVCF7JSuPju30-fK5StIi_QMQjZJqu8_1cQ/s1600/IMG_20150326_184141713_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzb1ZLZLx3tzucrvyW8_jORcEf-ppiIuQYaVi_tSg7ZwFHFKICnU7o-Tigfd1-Cu5-E-sd24AFzihcfkJTFgEEfqG45LCTFjyx5GZVCF7JSuPju30-fK5StIi_QMQjZJqu8_1cQ/s1600/IMG_20150326_184141713_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
She even blew out her own candles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84bGCuY1SSsMt3PbZXjVIoXews9RWERJ1x9Ih4PMA4VP6BGlDn3QKqvvS8lm6iBbq3NTS4QHXKnCuK1ULV4sZCT9hDvvIYaTp633HY7n1wNYEAz7MSyoe08DhannmmIL_jdubIw/s1600/IMG_20150329_100305784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84bGCuY1SSsMt3PbZXjVIoXews9RWERJ1x9Ih4PMA4VP6BGlDn3QKqvvS8lm6iBbq3NTS4QHXKnCuK1ULV4sZCT9hDvvIYaTp633HY7n1wNYEAz7MSyoe08DhannmmIL_jdubIw/s1600/IMG_20150329_100305784.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
This is what happens when I try to take a picture with all the kids. Peter and Lydia. Sheesh.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfoThx_R3YZcdTeRf-1kOl1NTOKNyL6hYsmBas5cmzAeUy4CFzDay1nQ3yLXpKXGbSt1rtu3YhUnGVsIUc_9aTnxhTyl9TIfQA2iwCKBDop4e4kOZNxPl3jQp7dmysCMXLuiZaA/s1600/IMG_20150408_105910665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfoThx_R3YZcdTeRf-1kOl1NTOKNyL6hYsmBas5cmzAeUy4CFzDay1nQ3yLXpKXGbSt1rtu3YhUnGVsIUc_9aTnxhTyl9TIfQA2iwCKBDop4e4kOZNxPl3jQp7dmysCMXLuiZaA/s1600/IMG_20150408_105910665.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia loves animals of all kinds. It's fun taking her to the zoo (but only if you bring enough snacks, I've wisely learned).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMSlt6B7YE1bjQSmSu9FbYidEgX2tu291z2ETTSCr27ObJTVPGUO4pU9z_aQJEaz7zcq2_fK0GzhyphenhyphenfjXY3anNATegg3IchWmTLF8zG10ErhG7c5bmuK_qcRwhkzhqJPf0Gjm8pg/s1600/IMG_20150401_113242135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMSlt6B7YE1bjQSmSu9FbYidEgX2tu291z2ETTSCr27ObJTVPGUO4pU9z_aQJEaz7zcq2_fK0GzhyphenhyphenfjXY3anNATegg3IchWmTLF8zG10ErhG7c5bmuK_qcRwhkzhqJPf0Gjm8pg/s1600/IMG_20150401_113242135.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
We also recently went to Purina Farms to pet the bunnies and baby animals. She still talks about the "Doggy Show" that she insisted on watching twice while we were there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1I54iyfqkh98iFMZW7juxIxqAnQFkJPBVs7H1lEgSPsNXdOgX_FXdJ2KH-Qqu1LFxeHK5i9VRlkOMFcrNpg-wfh_sSgS8GjFI79VkEk5uBOIme8wd09X2KMvSeHp08E0kD9u-sQ/s1600/IMG_20150401_183306085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1I54iyfqkh98iFMZW7juxIxqAnQFkJPBVs7H1lEgSPsNXdOgX_FXdJ2KH-Qqu1LFxeHK5i9VRlkOMFcrNpg-wfh_sSgS8GjFI79VkEk5uBOIme8wd09X2KMvSeHp08E0kD9u-sQ/s1600/IMG_20150401_183306085.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Lydia is my fearless girl who will climb up the playground steps and go down big slides all by herself with no one at the bottom to catch her. And if you even try to hold her hand in a parking lot or carry her, you'd better watch out. She walks BY HERSELF thank you very much. And she climbs into the car and into her car seat by herself too. Thankfully she lets me "help" with the buckles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7WMHoQ9O-0vzhWaU_8nNQZEln5trqqa3ED37Vj4RAvUjLSgrs7qzpxX5rlsEnwIzWNonYDhlNGmpI0F7OQsBkYtOTMxx7UTGaXYIjJ2zaBrukX4rx19FA6VXBC7zGlK8MO_wJA/s1600/IMG_20150409_083553396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7WMHoQ9O-0vzhWaU_8nNQZEln5trqqa3ED37Vj4RAvUjLSgrs7qzpxX5rlsEnwIzWNonYDhlNGmpI0F7OQsBkYtOTMxx7UTGaXYIjJ2zaBrukX4rx19FA6VXBC7zGlK8MO_wJA/s1600/IMG_20150409_083553396.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia still loves boots of any kind, and is really good at getting them on by herself.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOnbny5Axqdj3Vb9jMH590y3_W1XTFOeg0PKMrNJA9TUKjwaHHPx-VHP6J7NiOy7ypNEBe7Dq60hLWohEGFqCByl0vmwN33ofI9FCXpqbrsfMI3rtdDS3Io3jWLPS5jirKFiI26g/s1600/IMG_20150409_080037052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOnbny5Axqdj3Vb9jMH590y3_W1XTFOeg0PKMrNJA9TUKjwaHHPx-VHP6J7NiOy7ypNEBe7Dq60hLWohEGFqCByl0vmwN33ofI9FCXpqbrsfMI3rtdDS3Io3jWLPS5jirKFiI26g/s1600/IMG_20150409_080037052.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia is comfortable in her own skin. I love her confidence and creativity and her fierce devotion. I'm excited to watch who she becomes as the "toddler" wears off and the girl emerges. Love this girl.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-69547247618808197472015-03-30T14:35:00.000-05:002015-03-30T14:35:19.822-05:00A Long Blah<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrB0oaZdMlvcgyjAJxF1cLV7QFxIkmHnOFQ-6VA-hZmLCepr4tH5u6NJi6FfzokAK0nmQ2rwiOsfghrjaL1t5ZgnO_g5_wIiXirmPzhCQd03v8fNLpjdzJGwLNG0FTAhDKuuLo4g/s1600/IMG_2935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrB0oaZdMlvcgyjAJxF1cLV7QFxIkmHnOFQ-6VA-hZmLCepr4tH5u6NJi6FfzokAK0nmQ2rwiOsfghrjaL1t5ZgnO_g5_wIiXirmPzhCQd03v8fNLpjdzJGwLNG0FTAhDKuuLo4g/s1600/IMG_2935.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-h1QWoUP5LOjoR8SMuuG38xH_OhsLJ_thXISQHN_VmUKeKWRAtDYC601LDu7remeso4-hPnVYdsSZs1IqdU3XsuEGs6Yp70WvJn-z__88MYegH-xw7fqvy7M169hwIf_ntg8Xg/s1600/IMG_2975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-h1QWoUP5LOjoR8SMuuG38xH_OhsLJ_thXISQHN_VmUKeKWRAtDYC601LDu7remeso4-hPnVYdsSZs1IqdU3XsuEGs6Yp70WvJn-z__88MYegH-xw7fqvy7M169hwIf_ntg8Xg/s1600/IMG_2975.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5BkSUwmEH99VEsux684SsEdi0WUhVx8gefEKPyLZjtCrIngK-9f3-u-OR-6zEqig_eYTu6oW3MPfgVC3S7-kQHu155xh6OLySJ9KvKjZNJneMWoV6GYII91xbqzCqSxUcdamPPA/s1600/IMG_20150216_111743589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5BkSUwmEH99VEsux684SsEdi0WUhVx8gefEKPyLZjtCrIngK-9f3-u-OR-6zEqig_eYTu6oW3MPfgVC3S7-kQHu155xh6OLySJ9KvKjZNJneMWoV6GYII91xbqzCqSxUcdamPPA/s1600/IMG_20150216_111743589.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's funny with all the flurry of good things I've been involved with recently that I've put off blogging this long. We've had a pretty mild winter, but the tail end of it just DRAGGED. And I think I've been feeling a bit blah because of it. We got snow, snow and more snow. Not many school days off (maybe one? I can't even remember now), but it took a long time for it all to completely melt. Now, at the very end of March, we're finally seeing the first tiny buds of Spring popping out- not a moment too soon in my mind!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRhb-DS7OaklElRjbHHE3-AAnh1HIVSJmcNxtZdbcUgMB7DCklbsSy_xhuX99I9t4kN-PWXtD7qcAX6PwtnUIFOhsZ6QkSqvEJ-tCKSODiyscn1vwhccGqYtCWzP6O7IqSuqoMxA/s1600/IMG_20150227_122905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRhb-DS7OaklElRjbHHE3-AAnh1HIVSJmcNxtZdbcUgMB7DCklbsSy_xhuX99I9t4kN-PWXtD7qcAX6PwtnUIFOhsZ6QkSqvEJ-tCKSODiyscn1vwhccGqYtCWzP6O7IqSuqoMxA/s1600/IMG_20150227_122905.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Disney on Ice with the girls. After a fiasco with a dead car battery and no cash for parking, we finally made it! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL9yIYgX4sAS-YfYObXVT01f444UI7UemaGnKPDHYX0d8rjSIsbbpQXdvUe1vDdwdlRr5W-xYkEnaxxuH33G0_rMO7OiIwkq7YPfw_7ox7S9S9ZOR_u3VJ73YUdL32HZ6l7_7zEQ/s1600/IMG_20150301_122729049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL9yIYgX4sAS-YfYObXVT01f444UI7UemaGnKPDHYX0d8rjSIsbbpQXdvUe1vDdwdlRr5W-xYkEnaxxuH33G0_rMO7OiIwkq7YPfw_7ox7S9S9ZOR_u3VJ73YUdL32HZ6l7_7zEQ/s1600/IMG_20150301_122729049.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lydia was NOT happy about the shortened church schedule we had because of the snow. <br />She loves going to nursery, and thrives on routine. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7LXXwMhyAyN6AcCQ3qBwAODnUJIfVAXq4aWDy7BbLbyMf_FEQacjN7rYcw590oiEsN0dbHk7jz5FUETbJLv0d4ykQlpYvyK0EFcg5IGtI88eXu_WguZZn3H5VfgeRlAZiY9QFA/s1600/IMG_20150227_195352312_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7LXXwMhyAyN6AcCQ3qBwAODnUJIfVAXq4aWDy7BbLbyMf_FEQacjN7rYcw590oiEsN0dbHk7jz5FUETbJLv0d4ykQlpYvyK0EFcg5IGtI88eXu_WguZZn3H5VfgeRlAZiY9QFA/s1600/IMG_20150227_195352312_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Blue and Gold Banquet. Since we only had three boys, we joined up with another group for this. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyuzfGDWnKMglt3D8O4a4hsANyfE_blq-v-NcAJcbGlhFKbe38LCU0BoL4BcTlCX1dDA40rx_yyqSX1_F8R4-I92dI6o1ytwSeKR30Ss-Su2HZOeIY546YKpnd1VUhppD5SrY-A/s1600/IMG_20150131_152919149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyuzfGDWnKMglt3D8O4a4hsANyfE_blq-v-NcAJcbGlhFKbe38LCU0BoL4BcTlCX1dDA40rx_yyqSX1_F8R4-I92dI6o1ytwSeKR30Ss-Su2HZOeIY546YKpnd1VUhppD5SrY-A/s1600/IMG_20150131_152919149.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter and I went to his friend's birthday party at a huge arcade/indoor amusement park. It was crazy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I can't really account for most of February. The plumbing thing was the biggest issue, and we finally decided it wasn't worth the hassle of going through the home owners insurance to get the pipes fixed (they would have <i>maybe</i> done a band-aid job if we'd pushed), so we had someone come and replace the whole stack from the second floor bathroom all the way down to the basement concrete. Peace of mind, I tell you! We will replace the rest of the cast iron pipes in one more phase, and then plumbing should be a worry of the past here! The plumbing was our only main concern moving in, so it will be nice to have it out of the way. We're still living in the middle of a lot of drywall dust, but I've been getting motivated to make the affected areas OURS, which is a good thing.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-LWOQGZpG0m06Xv-PhPdDvaFlU91_fwP6qcliz634Udan5R4pKkPKsw-I-51A1WXva4wQvT96wLrTEKUs7kJkER8NWttoeFIWVh4UNnIbnp5K2tAmOuXB6htkzunqRN32lF7tw/s1600/IMG_20150224_162838536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-LWOQGZpG0m06Xv-PhPdDvaFlU91_fwP6qcliz634Udan5R4pKkPKsw-I-51A1WXva4wQvT96wLrTEKUs7kJkER8NWttoeFIWVh4UNnIbnp5K2tAmOuXB6htkzunqRN32lF7tw/s1600/IMG_20150224_162838536.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys finished up a mini karate program after school. They both earned their white belt.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjtZJkXdbMbcOljLSYB8eCg0alDlhBVJRejTI0Ru262S69Q5dNuYwgi6XXZKbuGlcd7yyx4_XOKnNjUHwIIUz6v-WMC84tqBKCvJ0Up8L6Yw_5hWr8q9AdOHeRHnqqkvjMgiA0Q/s1600/IMG_20150225_144747951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjtZJkXdbMbcOljLSYB8eCg0alDlhBVJRejTI0Ru262S69Q5dNuYwgi6XXZKbuGlcd7yyx4_XOKnNjUHwIIUz6v-WMC84tqBKCvJ0Up8L6Yw_5hWr8q9AdOHeRHnqqkvjMgiA0Q/s1600/IMG_20150225_144747951.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I FINALLY got around to finding us all a new doctor near our house. <br />And Nora was less than thrilled when she learned she had a few shots to catch up on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhuQmUnnIwtoKv3turjzZbVl67Qk8ylUJozSt9JIG8Yar4d2obQuh6TMV1OkIcWwx5AAVCSqzz5ekFKk8tHbQLV1K3ttWvnJ5p3A_JROb-dviPBtT1NWkLlXrZEBqpjm1bPb2UhA/s1600/IMG_20150225_211406819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhuQmUnnIwtoKv3turjzZbVl67Qk8ylUJozSt9JIG8Yar4d2obQuh6TMV1OkIcWwx5AAVCSqzz5ekFKk8tHbQLV1K3ttWvnJ5p3A_JROb-dviPBtT1NWkLlXrZEBqpjm1bPb2UhA/s1600/IMG_20150225_211406819.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For scouts one week, we made periscopes with the boys. They were a hit! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
March was a big month for family. I got to fly out <i>on my own </i>to my brother's wedding. It was so nice being free of any responsibilities for a weekend and see ALL of my siblings again. It's been years since we've all been together, and it was the very first time all of us got to be in the temple. I could not have been happier about the circumstances for meeting either. My brother Nathan deserves every happiness in the world, and is now getting that in his beautiful bride Jasmine! I can tell they are going to be a pretty fantastic couple.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim5q_XnZg3aHcdk4jQGgF8Bn8M3G41uiMbPzA8dq77pdbziph19go6yyMFdrmllQXR_rOEth60LK8IMpPuKi9uwZ5qop3o6a4v6N6x42yxbbdh4yGIJlc-D0JNO3uZRcVq_V5LDQ/s1600/IMG_20150305_155304675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim5q_XnZg3aHcdk4jQGgF8Bn8M3G41uiMbPzA8dq77pdbziph19go6yyMFdrmllQXR_rOEth60LK8IMpPuKi9uwZ5qop3o6a4v6N6x42yxbbdh4yGIJlc-D0JNO3uZRcVq_V5LDQ/s1600/IMG_20150305_155304675.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6j0tN3JXiul_yvJIAjx3NtNkZj3MxRf7mjSUsimH1WbHcyxnQvsHkfOQ9SqlhYB4uc5ilFvb8WCW0UPVsAsg_ogxaD3-denciXLyhQ14Lp5Bzm4Xoe51ztdTDIPIZWWG_R_7ow/s1600/IMG_20150306_135712560_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6j0tN3JXiul_yvJIAjx3NtNkZj3MxRf7mjSUsimH1WbHcyxnQvsHkfOQ9SqlhYB4uc5ilFvb8WCW0UPVsAsg_ogxaD3-denciXLyhQ14Lp5Bzm4Xoe51ztdTDIPIZWWG_R_7ow/s1600/IMG_20150306_135712560_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PiAjGaAkqOVjiUOSPMISM4XWBi3KqgBVgwhNCCBtrYLHFc8-c72f3y_NZy3jYIMCeD7N22vNt40xo3H7gYXxucoJXRcBDbR8-eH1dj-AuI72MbtRVhyphenhyphensxNmlTNE084cRT2AuHw/s1600/IMG_20150306_174909225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PiAjGaAkqOVjiUOSPMISM4XWBi3KqgBVgwhNCCBtrYLHFc8-c72f3y_NZy3jYIMCeD7N22vNt40xo3H7gYXxucoJXRcBDbR8-eH1dj-AuI72MbtRVhyphenhyphensxNmlTNE084cRT2AuHw/s1600/IMG_20150306_174909225.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLZ-dKZZSSG8FOeg_XhIiuv88l9pEoqxtBunn5NmIgo-9WNpJumi7s04m5ThwR4t1LF___6BgBAxi6oGUC-8QMGu_Ibg3v682q9_0vmvHFq2Ty8CJ7m8_rh977x6T5Bna7_xF6g/s1600/IMG_20150306_181507995_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLZ-dKZZSSG8FOeg_XhIiuv88l9pEoqxtBunn5NmIgo-9WNpJumi7s04m5ThwR4t1LF___6BgBAxi6oGUC-8QMGu_Ibg3v682q9_0vmvHFq2Ty8CJ7m8_rh977x6T5Bna7_xF6g/s1600/IMG_20150306_181507995_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXSdA7hiHuEo_-m4LGutjL6UEoDwt1R7ZC3rRKuvXMvYMwLMGkJOsSSyXcVyXiqaWiZiCgbue7Wgua_TtwoX7CrrFgb0vltIg6nnhEenx_Ensuno_PhgSw4WP0k32DKha3d3TAA/s1600/IMG_20150307_114635988_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXSdA7hiHuEo_-m4LGutjL6UEoDwt1R7ZC3rRKuvXMvYMwLMGkJOsSSyXcVyXiqaWiZiCgbue7Wgua_TtwoX7CrrFgb0vltIg6nnhEenx_Ensuno_PhgSw4WP0k32DKha3d3TAA/s1600/IMG_20150307_114635988_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then just a week later, we had my parents come here to visit. They came on my Dad's birthday, and stayed until the following week. It was a wonderful week filled with trips to the library, the art museum, and the botanical gardens. The kids had plenty of story time and one on one time with them, and things GOT DONE, I tell you! So many of the little things I've been meaning to get to magically got done, and the drywall in the bathrooms made a lot of progress. My Dad got a swing put up for the kids, which they were thrilled about! The funniest moment was when the piano got tuned (my Mom has offered to do this for years, and finally talked me into it), and the guy pulled out this giant piece of string-isolating felt that the last piano tuner had left in there (along with some piano tuner's business card, dated 2001)?! Yep, it plays a lot better now. Thanks, Mom! It was just good to have them here, getting to know our kids in their natural environment, and our kids getting to know their Grandma and Grandpa better.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQWe8eVKdPLV-jUFbv5ySzUVrESTWnwA3UI5f3RFY2A87rgZ4B-R48hyaE70lT8tBCTkMilf8zkIe6alydbi96MyYQEfKeJ9lMLVQS496hZ-fUdMxt3ABXMChLYZfWlQk3b79sg/s1600/IMG_20150317_210524360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQWe8eVKdPLV-jUFbv5ySzUVrESTWnwA3UI5f3RFY2A87rgZ4B-R48hyaE70lT8tBCTkMilf8zkIe6alydbi96MyYQEfKeJ9lMLVQS496hZ-fUdMxt3ABXMChLYZfWlQk3b79sg/s1600/IMG_20150317_210524360.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6z2zubCUb06G_KMQGcEhwuwmdSeCpI1YRnzTR6m4x3jvCOlkUkwWkNzIJKwHWNtX9eYb4bHaCjBwt_hOPtRdPu4Up0gxIyXvkyY10WJs-B9z-v96SVTlFzmr1Oacw6OIyq9JCQ/s1600/IMG_20150318_123908994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6z2zubCUb06G_KMQGcEhwuwmdSeCpI1YRnzTR6m4x3jvCOlkUkwWkNzIJKwHWNtX9eYb4bHaCjBwt_hOPtRdPu4Up0gxIyXvkyY10WJs-B9z-v96SVTlFzmr1Oacw6OIyq9JCQ/s1600/IMG_20150318_123908994.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT6W7d5nUTH6HrfIUo-vJCuN_RM4ayk5vQJorQwCViOLjNYRXVxXvbIGjfd1a1zHJnrWIojy6gOLwKZgOeTTeyYO1TqF6kzi-jGNdbIaj04nm25EJ1JDDYmsksXNCqZabAyW5lfw/s1600/IMG_20150319_112508889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT6W7d5nUTH6HrfIUo-vJCuN_RM4ayk5vQJorQwCViOLjNYRXVxXvbIGjfd1a1zHJnrWIojy6gOLwKZgOeTTeyYO1TqF6kzi-jGNdbIaj04nm25EJ1JDDYmsksXNCqZabAyW5lfw/s1600/IMG_20150319_112508889.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAp-QCIO_8bJdb9NXBTqWMZhBm9xgv73vqQuXKEl_QYGCqYp0EP55Jt6TJKJIS_0bLdjVHzo5vIk1DaMx9ytt2Ex59kM34Q7kRl_WEUG-qeEsxZTa1m5icTzeDY8Xi0Tyn47zfTA/s1600/IMG_20150320_132817098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAp-QCIO_8bJdb9NXBTqWMZhBm9xgv73vqQuXKEl_QYGCqYp0EP55Jt6TJKJIS_0bLdjVHzo5vIk1DaMx9ytt2Ex59kM34Q7kRl_WEUG-qeEsxZTa1m5icTzeDY8Xi0Tyn47zfTA/s1600/IMG_20150320_132817098.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJbflg1l-3TJYprrrCFiHKJe3C5xoR35n1EOGkMMuQUJoDJ0HHTilwHsM-dA14Er2MUUphyys6C8CV2ANdhdUnrroJCYRzK3YbAVNajVSjBv-RR4o0OmnslTo058Re_-1GYDoBBg/s1600/IMG_20150320_145351263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJbflg1l-3TJYprrrCFiHKJe3C5xoR35n1EOGkMMuQUJoDJ0HHTilwHsM-dA14Er2MUUphyys6C8CV2ANdhdUnrroJCYRzK3YbAVNajVSjBv-RR4o0OmnslTo058Re_-1GYDoBBg/s1600/IMG_20150320_145351263.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9z9DL-A2U1NK37oMAWFq1pGFjT8ytpkQC8WjflafdpKAABV26IllvmbdXW3g3VYO56te9nzhTJd3B1IuiVuzX0NNdDxSxuu1cVqDwc0B527Edh4TqlTWZBf09MNpEfcV7GR7NmA/s1600/IMG_20150321_092808764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9z9DL-A2U1NK37oMAWFq1pGFjT8ytpkQC8WjflafdpKAABV26IllvmbdXW3g3VYO56te9nzhTJd3B1IuiVuzX0NNdDxSxuu1cVqDwc0B527Edh4TqlTWZBf09MNpEfcV7GR7NmA/s1600/IMG_20150321_092808764.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfAyaT6JJc4JlwLv0DtonT8gjGiV79jhtkLIXXGvdnT0B3UM0RSsWEXkCfxMkQaOPXh-p45tDHzUILgN9W-D3W7L4VF9JYr8VKzbviSteytcFFqII9q9x7IUyQPs6gjFGBOrhYg/s1600/IMG_20150321_104953421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfAyaT6JJc4JlwLv0DtonT8gjGiV79jhtkLIXXGvdnT0B3UM0RSsWEXkCfxMkQaOPXh-p45tDHzUILgN9W-D3W7L4VF9JYr8VKzbviSteytcFFqII9q9x7IUyQPs6gjFGBOrhYg/s1600/IMG_20150321_104953421.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAMTSsj1mDGlboZKkd1CF5ySspIeLwbbS4kQBfDgpFkOUQ5pfStoGv_WMF6QZuQ0g07C9aQSxCF2Q8EX3kqJO4KZLBqHiK2FUUIrrx-L7z-i7Iz1Wphr4KZR7K-PGw2x_VXFQXg/s1600/IMG_20150321_111457300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAMTSsj1mDGlboZKkd1CF5ySspIeLwbbS4kQBfDgpFkOUQ5pfStoGv_WMF6QZuQ0g07C9aQSxCF2Q8EX3kqJO4KZLBqHiK2FUUIrrx-L7z-i7Iz1Wphr4KZR7K-PGw2x_VXFQXg/s1600/IMG_20150321_111457300.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sorry about the long catch up post. The poor neglected blog can only get better from here, right?! ;)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-20351060532290682602015-02-08T23:11:00.003-06:002015-02-08T23:27:30.781-06:00Strings and Other Things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's hard to believe that we're already eight days into February. This winter has been so mild with plenty of warm days sprinkled in between the really cold ones. I'm so grateful for that! But of course the kids are not. We haven't had a single snow day, and not even one chance to use Peter's snow ball maker he got from Nora for Christmas. I guess I wouldn't mind one good snow, but then I'm ready for Spring. I'm itching to get working in the yard. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
January was a flurry of activity for all of us. The boys used their New Years resolution lists to tell us that they were ready to start playing instruments- and NOW. So we set to work finding instruments and teachers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-mEenJ1c7XSyOOZDyEUA4_MF9_NF8jZnlyRvsB8ASeKrLpk-tCdupZjKxYvEGBIBHxQ8pfk6eTX91Cu64jhtFNz-v89PKDr7_CmAiAibUVKL4e0HRso8VCgo7DvsUuBpUNDFC1w/s1600/IMG_20150112_182930402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-mEenJ1c7XSyOOZDyEUA4_MF9_NF8jZnlyRvsB8ASeKrLpk-tCdupZjKxYvEGBIBHxQ8pfk6eTX91Cu64jhtFNz-v89PKDr7_CmAiAibUVKL4e0HRso8VCgo7DvsUuBpUNDFC1w/s1600/IMG_20150112_182930402.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Peter is taking lessons at a music center run by a community college. The building itself is very cool- very arts and craft. Benjamin is taking lessons from an old retired middle school music teacher out of her home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo66Hht1KbOVBvKYViuzcntrMAnYb9V6a7HR7SlFC94SSpQdblevZoJJ-7McVc127Z2SNvl2Ktwnqcm9ZGcZRgR06xnsymOhT48LIHPdpTaqDosTunEMIRAKskANgF0Qbnm6D1QA/s1600/IMG_20150115_164759086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo66Hht1KbOVBvKYViuzcntrMAnYb9V6a7HR7SlFC94SSpQdblevZoJJ-7McVc127Z2SNvl2Ktwnqcm9ZGcZRgR06xnsymOhT48LIHPdpTaqDosTunEMIRAKskANgF0Qbnm6D1QA/s1600/IMG_20150115_164759086.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Ben's been learning violin at school with all the other third graders (school issued), and decided he wanted to get an early start learning the cello. Next year, he'll get to bring his cello to school. The music department is actually one aspect of their new school that I've been really impressed with. Benjamin has really taken off, and is a dedicated practicer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0x6796EDWPX83cUYQkQV7JSZpystQRbkpK2tNbTpup3Hlx3ECkiepBanxXuXJtfTlpHWBttm1-_ASLuMRJQC97t-faUr8DG9mZ0w-Kp7ijJ0O2nihVHLWBOPAhicug8bmh3Dj-A/s1600/IMG_20150117_162232695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0x6796EDWPX83cUYQkQV7JSZpystQRbkpK2tNbTpup3Hlx3ECkiepBanxXuXJtfTlpHWBttm1-_ASLuMRJQC97t-faUr8DG9mZ0w-Kp7ijJ0O2nihVHLWBOPAhicug8bmh3Dj-A/s1600/IMG_20150117_162232695.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Peter started on the violin, and is doing really well. He's learning all of the basics, absorbing it all at his own pace.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0XFr7OEUApPF6ODq0YsnXh1lYloFZyMdno_FlraPBcJZycAof1uaNK5uLfTkkeOQ-feEY03sLe1BTZvN_1ce_tNj0pgn1o3u1fiIJiigaS7H3XcWa25vSo7q0p5gS8r3m2DRAw/s1600/IMG_20150118_223622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0XFr7OEUApPF6ODq0YsnXh1lYloFZyMdno_FlraPBcJZycAof1uaNK5uLfTkkeOQ-feEY03sLe1BTZvN_1ce_tNj0pgn1o3u1fiIJiigaS7H3XcWa25vSo7q0p5gS8r3m2DRAw/s1600/IMG_20150118_223622.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cub Scouts has been continuing. I am such a novice at the program, so it helps to have more seasoned women in there with me. We went to the City Museum to kick off the new year. Those boys have SO much energy, it's great! We've been busy planning out the next few months for that, with the Blue and Gold Banquet, the Pinewood Derby, and lots of catching boys up on their requirements in between. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfxpx9jcMc1c6sFCz-RmCaM8m1L86K52m6NeFPtZS0GO0JOhTuLVDFcrgqsHUt9yCMyFMf3myO0x0lN-twl6yMc1A7h-3A09t9Nlu6D8BFp5elZ5Eo09aTLkqUpdQfHFHZJMa4g/s1600/IMG_20150116_203500546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfxpx9jcMc1c6sFCz-RmCaM8m1L86K52m6NeFPtZS0GO0JOhTuLVDFcrgqsHUt9yCMyFMf3myO0x0lN-twl6yMc1A7h-3A09t9Nlu6D8BFp5elZ5Eo09aTLkqUpdQfHFHZJMa4g/s1600/IMG_20150116_203500546.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was also released from my calling with the Young Women, which I'd been expecting for a while, but that didn't make it any easier! I miss those girls. Now I'm teaching the 7/8 year olds in class each week, which brings fresh challenges! They are a sweet bunch. This picture is of one of their drawings/testimonies of Joseph Smith's first vision. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qYtTwB9694LSNF3iwrEu25H7yxh_braL8cI4GX60Yt_o0j5YUL95TFYClJs5IGIUUQC8dANkPPyFGxvM7X8UQtRYKpiqS1DKluA4l_1RXyxT99hyISsr11Tp1bH6KeDKbULPhQ/s1600/IMG_20150201_140102021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qYtTwB9694LSNF3iwrEu25H7yxh_braL8cI4GX60Yt_o0j5YUL95TFYClJs5IGIUUQC8dANkPPyFGxvM7X8UQtRYKpiqS1DKluA4l_1RXyxT99hyISsr11Tp1bH6KeDKbULPhQ/s1600/IMG_20150201_140102021.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's kind of fun being in the primary room with Peter and Nora now. Peter still talks about how he wishes I were HIS teacher (which I had the option to do, but chose not to). He is just his own man. Almost every day, he brings home a new project he made in kindergarten out of recycled objects and tape. He wanted to demonstrate this one right away for me. It's a helmet and breastplate. :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QhoYk54NexA7dD8Vih-qs3K1k6OitqqOKcItZRktjRcTMtLggIovqMz3hNYD4gvp8EV0wbgE-Etu2R2yZykzElgNFvQ-cyJBn5-7TQck_ZIDc9xlNxZ9UzKMqT9OCVgfIqSGFg/s1600/IMG_20150128_154334925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QhoYk54NexA7dD8Vih-qs3K1k6OitqqOKcItZRktjRcTMtLggIovqMz3hNYD4gvp8EV0wbgE-Etu2R2yZykzElgNFvQ-cyJBn5-7TQck_ZIDc9xlNxZ9UzKMqT9OCVgfIqSGFg/s1600/IMG_20150128_154334925.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Nora and Lydia have lots of time together these days, which I'm really glad about. I registered Nora for kindergarten a few weeks ago (!?!?) so these days are fleeting! They've started coordinating outfits all on their own, which is completely adorable.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvgRlPeWyJSvFZ8KVKtAOzskJenxf_JPK9OrJX0fUW2egbeDb3SaKe73YA7qhbJPyF5DkCSo3dvSngeirh7VxBdkrJm_4Ac2vNLdrsyy0tEvhE-e2qhpcq0X-OL-wB0b359o0a_w/s1600/IMG_20150123_101434455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvgRlPeWyJSvFZ8KVKtAOzskJenxf_JPK9OrJX0fUW2egbeDb3SaKe73YA7qhbJPyF5DkCSo3dvSngeirh7VxBdkrJm_4Ac2vNLdrsyy0tEvhE-e2qhpcq0X-OL-wB0b359o0a_w/s1600/IMG_20150123_101434455.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Nora is sweet most of the time with her sister, but when she isn't, I can hardly blame her. Lydia is almost two now, and as delightful and adorable as she can be, she can also be pretty tempestuous and irrational. Like when she randomly threw herself out of her crib in a fit of rage because she didn't want a nap. Or when she threw herself down the stairs because she was mad about...something. Or when she screamed in the middle of the night until I came and got her, and refused to go back to bed because she wanted to sleep on the floor. And the half dozen other times she's tried taking a nap on her floor, first shutting her door. Her language is getting a lot better, and she does talk a lot. Unfortunately, half the time I have no idea what she's saying.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdejpcLe26urw3uE9IQoFSisugM2lx1nO06guxj72XDf8VBMvlm_qagCJ8TuLASBP9w-lWE6DwxDQd_UKTZqjvAKCKLsR_Eyj-f9WTnqqlOW-Pj2RsH_6IZONDMasY9ZO71dH_Q/s1600/IMG_20150204_151145018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghdejpcLe26urw3uE9IQoFSisugM2lx1nO06guxj72XDf8VBMvlm_qagCJ8TuLASBP9w-lWE6DwxDQd_UKTZqjvAKCKLsR_Eyj-f9WTnqqlOW-Pj2RsH_6IZONDMasY9ZO71dH_Q/s1600/IMG_20150204_151145018.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Having said all that, she really is adorable, and melts my heart by the minute. Here she is, doing her own thing next to our Joy School set-up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1eRChrSfVat7-fAQab20P7Iaz8MvrNqpr1owKbvwmooD6hQei40BUeXoXo5LMugM9NHaqfPxypoXPU5sXsSJhrLg6ITubygxFVpDlVaiDDqXbR-4rapTx-lZrehkjiYEyyVwaA/s1600/IMG_20150205_093942569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1eRChrSfVat7-fAQab20P7Iaz8MvrNqpr1owKbvwmooD6hQei40BUeXoXo5LMugM9NHaqfPxypoXPU5sXsSJhrLg6ITubygxFVpDlVaiDDqXbR-4rapTx-lZrehkjiYEyyVwaA/s1600/IMG_20150205_093942569.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Our house hasn't seen any changes recently except for the hole that was opened up in our downstairs bathroom...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iA93_C5kd-EVg-EwKQf8j9TYCZSOwE8vOeCb-UHNg2nxVCH8kH5xiGdz2_k9NhpPkaCZHLFcP0TWh9IfApUGtsArEPMJrJwYmyDqXjyzykgjWX_YyovNjbqFkw5Ilfr9DwjRqg/s1600/IMG_20150206_103036097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iA93_C5kd-EVg-EwKQf8j9TYCZSOwE8vOeCb-UHNg2nxVCH8kH5xiGdz2_k9NhpPkaCZHLFcP0TWh9IfApUGtsArEPMJrJwYmyDqXjyzykgjWX_YyovNjbqFkw5Ilfr9DwjRqg/s1600/IMG_20150206_103036097.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
We discovered that the discoloration on the ceiling was actually coming from a leak in the pipes above it. And of course those pipes couldn't be accessed from below, so we had to start ripping out the wall in the upstairs bathroom.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42Jn2oSscOT9RvFQDzU5Z3zsWxepKYAyAH3dpBNinf8-qlBMievVN1cH62wY7AkoisEzFpmTjizjZu-GIK0oETUM4nZQQ-W6SSVWU6ViXOGftWtmsMWMyFsUt9Nt6veZ1gGouUg/s1600/IMG_20150208_220241289_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42Jn2oSscOT9RvFQDzU5Z3zsWxepKYAyAH3dpBNinf8-qlBMievVN1cH62wY7AkoisEzFpmTjizjZu-GIK0oETUM4nZQQ-W6SSVWU6ViXOGftWtmsMWMyFsUt9Nt6veZ1gGouUg/s1600/IMG_20150208_220241289_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Now lest you think we're just reliving past nightmares, I'm actually feeling pretty grateful right now. We knew that the pipes were older going in when we bought this house, and catching this during the first year was great- because it's all covered by our home owners insurance. And since this bathroom is such a mess already, we'll just go ahead and tile it. Part of me just wishes it was the other bathroom that needed immediate attention. All in good time....that's what I have to tell myself about the long list of projects I have constantly stewing in my head. All in good time.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-38629282890963972262015-01-11T23:09:00.000-06:002015-01-13T20:18:39.723-06:00Ten YearsIt's crazy to think that I've been married for an entire decade. Wasn't it just the early 2000's just the other day? Even though I was pretty young when I made that pivotal decision, I can honestly say ten years later that it was the best one I've ever made. For us, the decision to get married so quickly was based on faith. We were head over heels in love with each other, but there was also a much deeper yearning- to follow the Spirit that we'd both felt, telling us both that this was right. Now, ten years later, we know each other - and ourselves - a lot better, we've seen each other at our best and at our worst, and we've never been happier. I didn't think that was even possible.<br />
I have also learned in these ten years of marriage that for better or worse, I'm a fierce mother bear. I have a really hard time being away from my kids, ever. I've almost always arranged for babysitting <i>after</i> the kids are in bed (and those times are more rare than I'd like to admit!), and when I do leave them, it's hard to really relax. That's partly why we thought it was important for this anniversary for us to get away- just the two of us, for as long as I could feasibly manage. In our case, that ended up being four nights, five days. Paul made all of the arrangements on the vacation end, and I made all of the preparations on this end- basically drumming up any possible could-go-wrong scenario and ensuring there was a back up plan. Paul's sister agreed to watch our kids for us, which was hugely helpful in getting me to let go.<br />
We decided on Costa Rica, based on some friends' recommendations, and we were so glad we did! It was nearly the same time zone (so reduced travel and jet-lag), it felt pretty safe and friendly, and it was WARM. I mistakenly assumed my passport was still valid until a couple of days before Christmas when I double checked. Turns out that honeymoon trip we took to Mexico was TEN years ago, same as the expiration date on a passport...duh! So I had to scramble to get a new one. On Christmas Eve, I expedited all of my paper work out to a company that gets paid the big bucks to turn them around in a matter of days. Since it was during the holidays, we were really under a serious time crunch to get those back. But it all worked out!<br />
<br />
So, on to the good stuff. Pictures!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlDZLjxO3KjAewyw59uDVI3g5NrjDHbTE2hU5qKWIh2GdCaByz8-YbJGE_FGwUJvrpN3Yd1TeMiggATHklL1lGWOXHmdAGPv6enxw-d1D_doDx71QBpTQkzSbyR85-3pgIbwMtw/s1600/IMG_20150105_120036934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlDZLjxO3KjAewyw59uDVI3g5NrjDHbTE2hU5qKWIh2GdCaByz8-YbJGE_FGwUJvrpN3Yd1TeMiggATHklL1lGWOXHmdAGPv6enxw-d1D_doDx71QBpTQkzSbyR85-3pgIbwMtw/s1600/IMG_20150105_120036934.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We left early early Monday morning, and had a long layover in Miami. We killed time calling family, eating sushi, and finding our favorite perfume (I have never done that before, and now I think I could possibly have my own scent! I felt so grown up. Ha!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR086ipVHE3cpQMyixcVddCGeJl38ZAXIIJf5EfT9QZ9-Ufibo31X4Ab2Gr7WmzBKO1j82KcIgijMk54g7kaCEJAK39iKna28-tgFbxV61udsF46dFefGuaQGvvd-nPtchwvcFvw/s1600/IMG_20150106_171316175_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR086ipVHE3cpQMyixcVddCGeJl38ZAXIIJf5EfT9QZ9-Ufibo31X4Ab2Gr7WmzBKO1j82KcIgijMk54g7kaCEJAK39iKna28-tgFbxV61udsF46dFefGuaQGvvd-nPtchwvcFvw/s1600/IMG_20150106_171316175_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We got to the resort that night, and wandered down to the ocean after a nice dinner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOuQazL0kb2cguK_0B8WJM-kstJrQVcz6q9Eu2uunTBLCtKuiQukHNbhsN6sMrUSsF96vp59r3VXDPlTCUy5KUfz6wYBG9GwVkdeA9a3XjjbBbbaDFHLapWPKLlKFVB6QPlcdt5A/s1600/IMG_20150105_201813573_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOuQazL0kb2cguK_0B8WJM-kstJrQVcz6q9Eu2uunTBLCtKuiQukHNbhsN6sMrUSsF96vp59r3VXDPlTCUy5KUfz6wYBG9GwVkdeA9a3XjjbBbbaDFHLapWPKLlKFVB6QPlcdt5A/s1600/IMG_20150105_201813573_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
When we got to our room, we were greeted by this little crab. Kind of funny....ish. He found his way home outside again pretty quickly with a little assistance from us. Another funny quirk about our room was the noisy gurgling toilet. Apparently, all the big resorts down there have their own water processing plants, and since our room was on the bottom floor, we probably saw a lot of the pressure relieving or something. We should have switched rooms, but we just let it go and enjoyed some good belly laughs over it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxkHK1DVGa1IZv3YIaFn9989_CqfZwlOIyDs1xIQNs7ylCCIfIMvEzBxwZVXdVEWqDoWlEs0w6TVXMegclLSr7J1SWD7E9NvaRt5DhC_QMDyYbtXhtmHM-hV29boDgoqEXwqk_A/s1600/Vale-74.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxkHK1DVGa1IZv3YIaFn9989_CqfZwlOIyDs1xIQNs7ylCCIfIMvEzBxwZVXdVEWqDoWlEs0w6TVXMegclLSr7J1SWD7E9NvaRt5DhC_QMDyYbtXhtmHM-hV29boDgoqEXwqk_A/s1600/Vale-74.jpg" height="205" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The first full day in Costa Rica was Tuesday. We had fun relaxing by the pool, reading, sipping tropical drinks and occasionally posing for the photographers who actually did get some nice shots of us. Unfortunately that swimsuit made me look naked in half of them...awkward!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6BuqfrG-vVpnWGhJoFwDWthz7veA_uC37NTOPOeFpRmmd0aGe7uoySpTE6QzA2vK32aDX7W9-tX0z143MyQ9XnLIYuk87zS0nGjCYlzJIuVKweDiFXX9Prv87GlfujdXTiKVxQ/s1600/IMG_20150106_104120204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6BuqfrG-vVpnWGhJoFwDWthz7veA_uC37NTOPOeFpRmmd0aGe7uoySpTE6QzA2vK32aDX7W9-tX0z143MyQ9XnLIYuk87zS0nGjCYlzJIuVKweDiFXX9Prv87GlfujdXTiKVxQ/s1600/IMG_20150106_104120204.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I got a massage and a manicure too that day, and we spent some time exploring down by the beach. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSIeQJtVHI4GbSrwBjIBZsxwSGTuQhhpjKEwJarLzXss7NlM4e8voKoIMCS9jfu_-wh7anvsUDZJuP13sAxsDlZMG9z121POseBQULKfWNEGZ_S9-43WQ4gOg5si0NH8EAOuyBBw/s1600/DSC_0224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSIeQJtVHI4GbSrwBjIBZsxwSGTuQhhpjKEwJarLzXss7NlM4e8voKoIMCS9jfu_-wh7anvsUDZJuP13sAxsDlZMG9z121POseBQULKfWNEGZ_S9-43WQ4gOg5si0NH8EAOuyBBw/s1600/DSC_0224.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next day was Wednesday, and we took a full day driving out to a big river to go white water rafting. I think we were going down the 12-foot drop here. It was so much fun! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTvcKfabQxeo6QEukYsw7RpD2VnjktjCSGvmu5GHgbj015fX4Uz2dKkgRqsx8QaMpiK_m7Y8pD5GHs4x_v8y-PufZ3MKW3uQgTi3Z-sYMWHJKi3pLSFMVWcpUYIdZaXpLHcdDbg/s1600/P1070989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTvcKfabQxeo6QEukYsw7RpD2VnjktjCSGvmu5GHgbj015fX4Uz2dKkgRqsx8QaMpiK_m7Y8pD5GHs4x_v8y-PufZ3MKW3uQgTi3Z-sYMWHJKi3pLSFMVWcpUYIdZaXpLHcdDbg/s1600/P1070989.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On our way back, we stopped by a waterfall and just enjoyed the beauty there. I had already dried off, so I didn't get in. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8EtuIypt-3syEsmaQeVpx4kWwrZVpbQYPfgp6X51oozPwVGuXog6y5h2U2J5ZKKUiIAWb2ibF9b80TTGpbHVJtnLkbQlDJVN1V-Fva0RBF67j6OXEL3hg3zgkfKgov2VK1PuLw/s1600/P1080017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8EtuIypt-3syEsmaQeVpx4kWwrZVpbQYPfgp6X51oozPwVGuXog6y5h2U2J5ZKKUiIAWb2ibF9b80TTGpbHVJtnLkbQlDJVN1V-Fva0RBF67j6OXEL3hg3zgkfKgov2VK1PuLw/s1600/P1080017.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Paul on the other hand, just couldn't say no. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyvql5BSonbdnTvTnCHhfDqDhtM_a0IhermT9VN1KvEywZThH3e79_rtSOUhmcpnFUPYPZhlypt1AAEvQd9NdSxY9Y43iXggEqyvhzjBMELZJNb5RV9ZVmysziv8DqyqlAvz-yQ/s1600/P1080061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyvql5BSonbdnTvTnCHhfDqDhtM_a0IhermT9VN1KvEywZThH3e79_rtSOUhmcpnFUPYPZhlypt1AAEvQd9NdSxY9Y43iXggEqyvhzjBMELZJNb5RV9ZVmysziv8DqyqlAvz-yQ/s1600/P1080061.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Our travel guy, Christian, was really awesome. He was the one who greeted us at the airport, and made all the arrangements for our day trips. I was so impressed by how many people spoke English there, and how friendly everyone was. I wish America was a little more that way.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifkdJL86ELI1Is2v6OtmQzkPn95F6Cs4UzmlnL_BaU5kjAyjKVHAsS1RJ4mnnT-Rb-seK9MU7iy84C66V3b95lblz08cQlV485B0Ja2ZgDCrKBfZq35Zz0Y7DMV_ubp8NkekMgg/s1600/1+(400).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifkdJL86ELI1Is2v6OtmQzkPn95F6Cs4UzmlnL_BaU5kjAyjKVHAsS1RJ4mnnT-Rb-seK9MU7iy84C66V3b95lblz08cQlV485B0Ja2ZgDCrKBfZq35Zz0Y7DMV_ubp8NkekMgg/s1600/1+(400).JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
We started off on Thursday on the zip lines.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgp7VxPilTSsLTYr3wUjsrdXqubv-EXq4tVIWoHzaShwzgd5CGZo-rI6k47FiG6v8bTxUd1SnAchBp1C-Kb1iB1ehKHVKj1ts8IUJp89apxUjcC7j6of6dHLfwdqggwOVdL-L0_A/s1600/1+(423).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgp7VxPilTSsLTYr3wUjsrdXqubv-EXq4tVIWoHzaShwzgd5CGZo-rI6k47FiG6v8bTxUd1SnAchBp1C-Kb1iB1ehKHVKj1ts8IUJp89apxUjcC7j6of6dHLfwdqggwOVdL-L0_A/s1600/1+(423).JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
They were a lot of fun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH85me55H5eMbphcD4TuozH2RDSSZhyYkCDKwCV7NanFOVyOnCLmaob_ZfP0GgiP2j8jafCKcnLDDWpEiccGsFZO0EsDCFKrfVvDwWDivcYxYjGkLqKRnuAqyBjnw992ly6-1CvQ/s1600/DSC_0104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH85me55H5eMbphcD4TuozH2RDSSZhyYkCDKwCV7NanFOVyOnCLmaob_ZfP0GgiP2j8jafCKcnLDDWpEiccGsFZO0EsDCFKrfVvDwWDivcYxYjGkLqKRnuAqyBjnw992ly6-1CvQ/s1600/DSC_0104.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
Turns out those huge gloves and helmets were pretty useful. I realized this when my helmet started skidding against the wire on my way down.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpG4hWiBNUFGZ8dj0yvgOHWcogdD-UjiXXbHrEVbUvdIY_2QmNqZlUl7sQyg16kwXqSIKUddSRcderS8cAvRAVcx0OaKCpn175mr4og-05ySAzzZW1M3MsA7a3_mYj4sovZEfo3Q/s1600/5+(143).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpG4hWiBNUFGZ8dj0yvgOHWcogdD-UjiXXbHrEVbUvdIY_2QmNqZlUl7sQyg16kwXqSIKUddSRcderS8cAvRAVcx0OaKCpn175mr4og-05ySAzzZW1M3MsA7a3_mYj4sovZEfo3Q/s1600/5+(143).JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
Then we repelled down to a little platform so we could "rock climb." It was kind of a joke though, with all the hand holds, and the guy at the top practically pulling me up the whole way.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3G8lKq4ILiq7NZBH22z_Hl4ztQtdwxANrAGwiQ9WB80p3_dgrMS6C5_nGMMAz4Yf1y67cs1NDOAY2Q_M8R5HN6Ezu3QOPHcraXKDF_5DUKG9dkcmGPhO4ManJdzoAHO3KqOq_4g/s1600/5+(151).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3G8lKq4ILiq7NZBH22z_Hl4ztQtdwxANrAGwiQ9WB80p3_dgrMS6C5_nGMMAz4Yf1y67cs1NDOAY2Q_M8R5HN6Ezu3QOPHcraXKDF_5DUKG9dkcmGPhO4ManJdzoAHO3KqOq_4g/s1600/5+(151).JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
I think they let Paul actually climb some of it though.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiY9N4yFDxtC-jqdN2sW2c0ko1I3lh07vNCcwrg8OpbHIg6K5OzdwAMOaFPlT3oD04Y487yuGCCxfngMf08oZBTSq4tA2krQHfiaACLHhKKQ-lM3mKXbB11FI64di5CAphZ3t9EQ/s1600/P1080041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiY9N4yFDxtC-jqdN2sW2c0ko1I3lh07vNCcwrg8OpbHIg6K5OzdwAMOaFPlT3oD04Y487yuGCCxfngMf08oZBTSq4tA2krQHfiaACLHhKKQ-lM3mKXbB11FI64di5CAphZ3t9EQ/s1600/P1080041.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The horse riding segment was interesting. I don't have any confidence in that area, and my horse knew it. Paul didn't either (can you tell from the picture?! haha), and he got quite a wild ride! His horse was insane! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3_nsO93rG7-vQitS9lyrhpZV5NzgFd0UCIekis-DR2gbJqbofZwF6dm8Yy8BzmKkR_hvCxA8xbXhC1k5KuTw-2dllqkQDxRjgpYi7Wnp3CUhR6ijVcGDB6hw6S7SkRN8YZ1M1w/s1600/3+(74).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3_nsO93rG7-vQitS9lyrhpZV5NzgFd0UCIekis-DR2gbJqbofZwF6dm8Yy8BzmKkR_hvCxA8xbXhC1k5KuTw-2dllqkQDxRjgpYi7Wnp3CUhR6ijVcGDB6hw6S7SkRN8YZ1M1w/s1600/3+(74).JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then we had another trip down a different river, this time on tubes. It was mostly drifting and bumping over some good size rapids, but there were some points where we had to go down using ropes and hand holds. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9MOxpyvGvO66c3BIdIMUdfuRG7k6BsfhAxORYPjjpIxmF1qw_M4w3wLjXokCRUhK2g6BV4kyIHU5R1EGPpufmLbNyFZXAtY_OvQ-DbZkSIGTKu3V6xRzA3kRbWp9hR2zfTVcF0A/s1600/3+(120).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9MOxpyvGvO66c3BIdIMUdfuRG7k6BsfhAxORYPjjpIxmF1qw_M4w3wLjXokCRUhK2g6BV4kyIHU5R1EGPpufmLbNyFZXAtY_OvQ-DbZkSIGTKu3V6xRzA3kRbWp9hR2zfTVcF0A/s1600/3+(120).JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
I love rivers so much! They were probably the most fun for us, so I'm glad we got to do it twice.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdeDkDnoOlihCPYEfoI-kPn-YeIlbOEjDCF4pgZCXbQzZP8J40l0xNXe09fflo3AS9MobhiI8YwTRpB9T7GHc47eWbKjQsSIJq4VFcZBKDXVPfW8dyzJP2vqB8SeETJ8F6LaVFzg/s1600/P1080054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdeDkDnoOlihCPYEfoI-kPn-YeIlbOEjDCF4pgZCXbQzZP8J40l0xNXe09fflo3AS9MobhiI8YwTRpB9T7GHc47eWbKjQsSIJq4VFcZBKDXVPfW8dyzJP2vqB8SeETJ8F6LaVFzg/s1600/P1080054.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
We ended the day at the "spa" there, where we painted each other in the "special" exfoliating volcanic mud and took a dip in the hot springs. I could not stop laughing while I was getting painted, so I got some in my mouth. Thanks a lot, Paul. ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ybDTJ_RIhMv3sIgYT4ZBDFzrAak5Z0ZOnc2GLonuzXtkZfjcBvHaEcK23RICXlpAxQcs4O8P8fxxeW8UYAmgAqxIqBAq_bmJtYGoItznEFH5kI5-yh1CaH6sQxLz5dx9hm65xw/s1600/IMG_20150108_172244218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ybDTJ_RIhMv3sIgYT4ZBDFzrAak5Z0ZOnc2GLonuzXtkZfjcBvHaEcK23RICXlpAxQcs4O8P8fxxeW8UYAmgAqxIqBAq_bmJtYGoItznEFH5kI5-yh1CaH6sQxLz5dx9hm65xw/s1600/IMG_20150108_172244218.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We spent our last evening back at the resort after finding a few good souvenirs for the kids. That last pina colada was perfection (and so were the faces Paul was making at me). I've got to start learning how to make those (pina coladas, I mean). No excuse.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduCvAbm2WWCQ-3kQbomMnGRuoOaCA6sj-gPujKhcC8sxkxp1cIEdkRt3cNBLDCI4j8KPutTa-7Nh5qddKJANmiH7Bnspdv3_3kikRbkSAkmecdcHbAeLJLbXzV8mhaZfaNvklVw/s1600/IMG_20150108_173214597_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduCvAbm2WWCQ-3kQbomMnGRuoOaCA6sj-gPujKhcC8sxkxp1cIEdkRt3cNBLDCI4j8KPutTa-7Nh5qddKJANmiH7Bnspdv3_3kikRbkSAkmecdcHbAeLJLbXzV8mhaZfaNvklVw/s1600/IMG_20150108_173214597_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We watched our last sunset over the beach, then made our way up to the lounge chairs by the pool where we'd watch the stars come out every night. It was crazy how black the sky was, and how many stars you could see! It was also strange not being able to see the big dipper, which has always been my one standby constellation I can find.<br />
The next morning (Friday) we took our time swimming in the ocean and the pool before saying our goodbyes. The trip home was a lot more lengthy and stressful, but no flights were missed, so we were fine. We saw the kids the next morning (on Saturday), and it was a happy reunion! Lydia wasn't even mad at me! Abby did such a good job with all of our kids and hers ALL BY HERSELF all week! She was the real star of the show.<br />
I am so, so grateful we could do this. In some ways, it was a real sacrifice to make it happen, but it felt good to celebrate our marriage in a meaningful way. And hopefully it won't take us another ten years to do it again!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-10214375252973993242014-12-28T22:46:00.002-06:002014-12-28T22:59:39.733-06:00Christmastime and Such<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, I guess it's come to this. The monthly blog post. On the upside, it's easy for me to recall the past month because I've already documented a lot of it through Instagram, but I still feel impulsively drawn to the blog to fill in and expound. Guilt, perhaps. It's hard to believe I've been doing this blog for eight and a half years now!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nora's little Joyschool group worked on a nativity play together. I think the idea was for them to perform for an old people home, but they eventually got a kindly older neighbor to watch them in the end. They are really cute together. Nora's the only one moving on to kindergarten next year from this group of girls, so I'm beginning to reconsider what my involvement in Joyschool teaching should look like. Come January, I'll probably tailor my part of the teaching a little more towards kindergarten readiness, instead of the traditional Joyschool lessons. There are generally good ideas in the lessons, but it's not really my style of teaching and just feels forced. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyi3FMh5yE4MRDunoqCM0Pw0gqs4W4cZihGu2bnExYmjANK6XgegbF3E9JpipNC_xfg4iNRpRQFHc845OQKLksDnYt-1sIpScaNuWf7XyBmQZSWNo6Jm4ObqrPr-jBf9HUlDarAQ/s1600/20141218_102923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyi3FMh5yE4MRDunoqCM0Pw0gqs4W4cZihGu2bnExYmjANK6XgegbF3E9JpipNC_xfg4iNRpRQFHc845OQKLksDnYt-1sIpScaNuWf7XyBmQZSWNo6Jm4ObqrPr-jBf9HUlDarAQ/s1600/20141218_102923.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I tried my hand at chalkboard lettering for fun. I've found with all this new (glorious) space to fill, our Christmas decorations were feeling a little sparse. I used a chalkboard that was given to us a few months ago, and turned it into one of my favorite Messianic verses. In my head, I always burst into the Handel's sing along version of this. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtfQZfW1dl20X_1uUr2ruEj_aecDY3jBrvso_In6OOHRBWylHF40kmiJ4zCaA7Z8FOHfZzaCJykFvE0bFpLVoPYDx3cLp1S2kIOhWArRTBlyPjwvDA6ivba54SQpFcZuwPUDI4A/s1600/IMG_20141130_221009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtfQZfW1dl20X_1uUr2ruEj_aecDY3jBrvso_In6OOHRBWylHF40kmiJ4zCaA7Z8FOHfZzaCJykFvE0bFpLVoPYDx3cLp1S2kIOhWArRTBlyPjwvDA6ivba54SQpFcZuwPUDI4A/s1600/IMG_20141130_221009.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The girls and I haven't been going to the Magic House as much as we used to. Probably because it's twenty minutes away now instead of five. Our pass was about to expire, so I took them one last time. Lydia loved going back and forth over this balance beam. She's an adventurous little girl. Another funny (unrelated thing) that Lydia does these days is push her little stools around and climb up to get whatever it is she wants. She has been known to find the cereal she needs, bring it to the table, find her own bowl, get a spoon out of the drawer (using her stool) and then climb into her chair (again using her stool) to eat. Then she'll ask whoever's nearby for "Milk." Funny girl.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUwhgG90XNPimuNivTlDejUawVMBvgjHnjxzO-BXo3JOOuV1jXPJuoNT2eVv-wpCs_zkwl75zr3Cu0RT5wmFlK_I2TzJ4uXnMZ1zUAiVtqI9MS3uKd4TBdRUs9sLYJMDgjKPGyxQ/s1600/IMG_20141205_110231533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUwhgG90XNPimuNivTlDejUawVMBvgjHnjxzO-BXo3JOOuV1jXPJuoNT2eVv-wpCs_zkwl75zr3Cu0RT5wmFlK_I2TzJ4uXnMZ1zUAiVtqI9MS3uKd4TBdRUs9sLYJMDgjKPGyxQ/s1600/IMG_20141205_110231533.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Back to the Magic House. Because it was December when we went, Santa showed up for story time. Nora and Lydia were both really resistant to going anywhere near him, but I finally got Nora to at least stand next to him for a picture. I think she told him that she wanted a Tinkerbelle tent. This (fairly typical) encounter with the strange, mystical man reaffirmed in my mind that I don't care to push Santa too much on my children. I'm glad to extend their belief in the magic of it all for as long as possible, but it's kind of a weird custom to try and coerce my kids to sit on a stranger's lap. The more I think about it, Santa is a creepy idea. Anyways...moving on.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUBBErE5D8R_5gB5IPQ-7ee35WBIPQ7G8ncHHLWjJg-ENuQSYvBZ9Lga9O8B9c6yRiOmUbG1dSTu_fSy3h5UCPJ2DTeH8XGfI68blTNOt2UzknI6PYhbB8pWKs9vpsiIgbAOYhw/s1600/IMG_20141205_114322368_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUBBErE5D8R_5gB5IPQ-7ee35WBIPQ7G8ncHHLWjJg-ENuQSYvBZ9Lga9O8B9c6yRiOmUbG1dSTu_fSy3h5UCPJ2DTeH8XGfI68blTNOt2UzknI6PYhbB8pWKs9vpsiIgbAOYhw/s1600/IMG_20141205_114322368_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Paul and Peter got to go to a Rams football game (LDS night, where they sat next to the Witchers)- the first pro football game either of them have ever been to. I think Benjamin was a little bummed at not being able to come, but we reminded him of the hockey and baseball games he's been to without his little brother. It's special to have Daddy all to yourself sometimes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzxESSxg4i5CireWGwwwqntjjauZ_SV3f0bSpxh88QrM9uQmstNxf8LMZzPJXbLltTqeIgCI38BxF-DJ5kyqyiGevhFefHjf42ZMpHKWg_Sqne9NGKDc-GCwiisomlDF-sSIsrw/s1600/IMG_20141211_193051_269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggzxESSxg4i5CireWGwwwqntjjauZ_SV3f0bSpxh88QrM9uQmstNxf8LMZzPJXbLltTqeIgCI38BxF-DJ5kyqyiGevhFefHjf42ZMpHKWg_Sqne9NGKDc-GCwiisomlDF-sSIsrw/s1600/IMG_20141211_193051_269.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
They ended up staying out REALLY late. It was funny to see little Peter, bouncing into the house around 11:15, totally wired. I expected him to sleep in the next day, and was prepared to bring him into school late, but he was up the next morning as if nothing had happened. I kept waiting for the crash after that, but he never did. I'm glad they went. I think they really did have fun together, despite the terrible game they watched. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheelBgiBy9vIpqn1aXSLL480NiD_kqa98FSPK_ZjW5fD1BXX_bIq17nLn1x2V8ph4mEs27I2RrlHl7N__NhPm9fjYgXCHAsy7vrQwz_bbVeY-MNoFQYfrlEprPuduOc0G32cdg0A/s1600/IMG_20141211_193545_380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheelBgiBy9vIpqn1aXSLL480NiD_kqa98FSPK_ZjW5fD1BXX_bIq17nLn1x2V8ph4mEs27I2RrlHl7N__NhPm9fjYgXCHAsy7vrQwz_bbVeY-MNoFQYfrlEprPuduOc0G32cdg0A/s1600/IMG_20141211_193545_380.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
We didn't do too much sweet treat baking this year. The kids really wanted to make gingerbread men though, so we at least did that- but with dinosaur cutters instead of men, since that's all I could find. We made them over three weeks ago, but they're still hanging out in our cookie jar, along with some brownies and toffee and other cookies that people have given us. We really don't eat that much sugar around here, which is so different from how I grew up. Gestational diabetes diet training for the win!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaozvK6S84Cc_ej3ozKM1cMVk8EpB5mb6bV6RTjqYGzj6sukAYWOHN7cJACLqSuVf0JQO29DsUpV5h1F14JdTAl5f2iAY_9ugw7y1SV31e5ZhZ_slT3NMRzd4oAWglu0CQbpEBug/s1600/IMG_20141215_190845108_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaozvK6S84Cc_ej3ozKM1cMVk8EpB5mb6bV6RTjqYGzj6sukAYWOHN7cJACLqSuVf0JQO29DsUpV5h1F14JdTAl5f2iAY_9ugw7y1SV31e5ZhZ_slT3NMRzd4oAWglu0CQbpEBug/s1600/IMG_20141215_190845108_HDR.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Another tradition that needed to be carried on this year was driving out to see the Christmas lights. There are two light shows that we alternate between each year. One is at Tilles Park- that one is all Santa and polar bears and candy canes and everything else that is secular and loosely related to Christmas. The other one is a little farther, but is at a Catholic compound, and is entirely focused on Christ's birth. It has signs with scriptures telling the account along the way, and has a really nice feel to it. We went there this time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0URH18jeD4XIUDPlbC0YpL4LRXrRhXalvM3veVCvbpH3uwQgpABe1WruwvE4vGRSX1XrfZz8pypi8qrpnDwYD_JffZ7SqZaNTejHECz74Gw4QAn9d_uLokWlrgrmTWMAutBLtsg/s1600/IMG_20141216_190621730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0URH18jeD4XIUDPlbC0YpL4LRXrRhXalvM3veVCvbpH3uwQgpABe1WruwvE4vGRSX1XrfZz8pypi8qrpnDwYD_JffZ7SqZaNTejHECz74Gw4QAn9d_uLokWlrgrmTWMAutBLtsg/s1600/IMG_20141216_190621730.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
It was a really cold night, but we decided to get out and see the animals that were there. Nora loved this donkey.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDGEi3qwRyQzl-OikbW5acIKL1UISuBZFd7c7cn56qHZO-ezj_VqO2xFAXaX0rLmCnnkhuAirAcmptaAUGwSlW6o_X0SJhgaE3PrrwzCSYLzV7AD5xF6AdTXp8rDoSv0ad60w6rQ/s1600/IMG_20141216_193220456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDGEi3qwRyQzl-OikbW5acIKL1UISuBZFd7c7cn56qHZO-ezj_VqO2xFAXaX0rLmCnnkhuAirAcmptaAUGwSlW6o_X0SJhgaE3PrrwzCSYLzV7AD5xF6AdTXp8rDoSv0ad60w6rQ/s1600/IMG_20141216_193220456.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
So we let her take a ride on it. I think she enjoyed being "Mary" for a moment.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2GPRpK5WwN-R8gNLShF5o0lKF4P08MV8XSzt7ozippYSoFnptMVoZH2lIKjr6DJpe0jxHeTYcQhivwbKh24fCLYNnsu7_DsCsgqzn0LgDk-6GBhJvCsVbLxq5qYqF9BaUbfpyQ/s1600/IMG_20141216_193418538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2GPRpK5WwN-R8gNLShF5o0lKF4P08MV8XSzt7ozippYSoFnptMVoZH2lIKjr6DJpe0jxHeTYcQhivwbKh24fCLYNnsu7_DsCsgqzn0LgDk-6GBhJvCsVbLxq5qYqF9BaUbfpyQ/s1600/IMG_20141216_193418538.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
The boys smartly chose to ride the camel, because it's a CAMEL! It was pretty awesome.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCmG_nIvqdgPCoojqZqJvl2bQcnsGUJPUNqwwC6xBv9k-QfVN3UoS2qiSuWx1lbYEgWlk3ndc4NJ2glmRL8jdQhRgUZ20KoLbICaCHUFjFS79Fr8zkLdsI3SrbD4PRfAB9Kyx6Mw/s1600/IMG_20141216_193720508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCmG_nIvqdgPCoojqZqJvl2bQcnsGUJPUNqwwC6xBv9k-QfVN3UoS2qiSuWx1lbYEgWlk3ndc4NJ2glmRL8jdQhRgUZ20KoLbICaCHUFjFS79Fr8zkLdsI3SrbD4PRfAB9Kyx6Mw/s1600/IMG_20141216_193720508.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
They also had a children's room inside with activity tables and a really upbeat music video about "Emanuel" playing on repeat the entire time. And it was stuck in my head forever afterwards... I asked the kids if they'd like to go to primary where they sang songs like that and they quickly answered no- too crazy! I really like our church, but I'm grateful to others for putting on such beautiful, meaningful displays for the rest of us to enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTq5P9hmfe2psQaUL3smYBzofd92Zz7bBacBuFA3ShJBdqY2yFZwaMGTSziDeQM6AzF4Ngb3axXmCl-tdOLUz5aKh5SUAaxjrIowmwRzADYITcJTw6LYa_lLLXW8GvY-Do2hcHg/s1600/IMG_20141216_200334716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTq5P9hmfe2psQaUL3smYBzofd92Zz7bBacBuFA3ShJBdqY2yFZwaMGTSziDeQM6AzF4Ngb3axXmCl-tdOLUz5aKh5SUAaxjrIowmwRzADYITcJTw6LYa_lLLXW8GvY-Do2hcHg/s1600/IMG_20141216_200334716.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Our ward had a nice Christmas program this year. All the primary kids were dressed up, and basically sat up on the stage while we sang along with a beautiful (unrehearsed) symphony of musical instruments. It was nice having the kids up there with a purpose, and being able to enjoy the wonderful music.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1a0LkwYPDOSLSgKfGba8SEzcQSF1sqWWeNB6wxJOt_mKwa6sj87tTVdexA4tM-4-_opr-38RF3QBhUXdpEhI1mIkKU5ZLDVjirsL9HCU4fomuZyIziEQOL5ZXjgUlR7t-ZsrA2w/s1600/IMG_20141220_183649773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1a0LkwYPDOSLSgKfGba8SEzcQSF1sqWWeNB6wxJOt_mKwa6sj87tTVdexA4tM-4-_opr-38RF3QBhUXdpEhI1mIkKU5ZLDVjirsL9HCU4fomuZyIziEQOL5ZXjgUlR7t-ZsrA2w/s1600/IMG_20141220_183649773.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Afterwards, there was a nice dinner, and we enjoyed spending some time with a friend from Paul's work and his family who joined us for that.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlzBbB-khv8YGxP6lpTCr42mCcDrEr4MdZbfoYoeXajJZPNZ0vCDXX9S_oXfs6P2caIC_3deTe7yBTUVpEPNJLO-GnpA3OHGa_PiiQH2D504cH_hoxvgB3OxS1ZwUnPjSliTOmw/s1600/IMG_20141220_185339186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlzBbB-khv8YGxP6lpTCr42mCcDrEr4MdZbfoYoeXajJZPNZ0vCDXX9S_oXfs6P2caIC_3deTe7yBTUVpEPNJLO-GnpA3OHGa_PiiQH2D504cH_hoxvgB3OxS1ZwUnPjSliTOmw/s1600/IMG_20141220_185339186.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
The kids each had a sibling to get a present for this year. We don't keep it secret, but try to rotate it so they're not getting the same person every year. This time Benjamin had Lydia, Peter had Benjamin, Nora had Peter, and Lydia had Nora. The boys were old enough this time where we asked them to use their own money or be involved in making their presents. It was sweet to see them really think about what their person might like. Peter made a "creeper" patch (from Minecraft, Benjamin's favorite video game) to sew onto a snow hat he bought with his own money. He was really proud of how it turned out, and rightfully so. He did a great job!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiglGM7m_ZYCahVUIjtdG3iYqKWGKARhanevlJ0Ll_L4L5qeJBJssJbrR0YtV1sVJ55X8p_y66sU5kduJyJffTHGTGim-JPTw6DfhfgDEtvOmmycS79uZFAmoHcacxUl6I_SvMdxQ/s1600/IMG_20141222_170034361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiglGM7m_ZYCahVUIjtdG3iYqKWGKARhanevlJ0Ll_L4L5qeJBJssJbrR0YtV1sVJ55X8p_y66sU5kduJyJffTHGTGim-JPTw6DfhfgDEtvOmmycS79uZFAmoHcacxUl6I_SvMdxQ/s1600/IMG_20141222_170034361.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">Benjamin made a doll bed out of a Cuties orange box along with a mattress to fit inside. He also made a little pillow and blanket, and bought a small Elmo that fit perfectly. I gave him a few lessons on the sewing machine, but he really took charge of that present, and I was really proud of what he came up with. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoqjSELU9hpeI2j1hyphenhyphenLALh5ukEZh5keYz790V63JRSYMImr42tj9jeghZg-W4Zz_AV6Rxdd8cET_orfKL8EASdBpY5dtVtHukQ93rpaI-FNz_adwBBb9Qh0_TnLWxsXSG5YX9nQ/s1600/IMG_20141225_065602433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoqjSELU9hpeI2j1hyphenhyphenLALh5ukEZh5keYz790V63JRSYMImr42tj9jeghZg-W4Zz_AV6Rxdd8cET_orfKL8EASdBpY5dtVtHukQ93rpaI-FNz_adwBBb9Qh0_TnLWxsXSG5YX9nQ/s1600/IMG_20141225_065602433.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
My sewing project of the season was Lydia's snowman stocking (only a year late!). During the last session of stitching around the edges, all I could think to myself was "how did I make FIVE of these in one season a few years ago?!?" I am so glad I made these, because I love them, but they are time consuming!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibh17tiRjpfJrKZjp-yWi-8QRMvnUjQ5VAWZriM0bu-0B-7ICYTvrnYV5W4GAGVqt_uHiod-qecdkLpRDztHlAVHTG6zm05xFuxBqZ_CMQW2B5V5VL9CJGB8gIUSw_uQlvyXL4Zw/s1600/IMG_20141224_152114271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibh17tiRjpfJrKZjp-yWi-8QRMvnUjQ5VAWZriM0bu-0B-7ICYTvrnYV5W4GAGVqt_uHiod-qecdkLpRDztHlAVHTG6zm05xFuxBqZ_CMQW2B5V5VL9CJGB8gIUSw_uQlvyXL4Zw/s1600/IMG_20141224_152114271.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
On Christmas Eve, we had our traditional family nativity play. Nora was excited to be Mary, Lydia played the angel (funny how she already showed signs of jealousy over <i>not</i> being Mary! We had to spruce up her costume with fairy wings and a halo crown), Paul was Joseph, Peter was our Wiseman, Benjamin was our shepherd, and I was the narrator. Peter got very into his role, and wanted to find gifts that actually looked like gold, frankincense and myrrh.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oTWl3tsAY8_t2wNw5a7uh7PpPJstIrQ_aOrwmyXVwzSxiLpHXzwz1ZHmfU-GlAIzHKzM9eWEPa0QkCkZL9RZT614RV7BPYSamVukQi1ftzS-2GJjWZWj3Fc4B8FQoYotzcgzOg/s1600/IMG_20141224_165825692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oTWl3tsAY8_t2wNw5a7uh7PpPJstIrQ_aOrwmyXVwzSxiLpHXzwz1ZHmfU-GlAIzHKzM9eWEPa0QkCkZL9RZT614RV7BPYSamVukQi1ftzS-2GJjWZWj3Fc4B8FQoYotzcgzOg/s1600/IMG_20141224_165825692.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
I also managed to surprise the kids with Christmas jammies. I had to give up on the idea of matching jammies, because it is close to impossible to find anything that matches from 18 months up through 8 years, but I think they were all happy in the end. The boys wanted footie jammies, which is what they got.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP9ZXfS7kkRapOoAXQBRI3HB-Nyj8zVNm024oWVotZOvFdmbDOQYOdLALW-L82WCsm3eydQKVy_qaQGwezEctbG51EGsaTJc9zhOdTNyJgEYPOLTsDhyphenhyphenqdgcv_QBIc6UX1qDrSJA/s1600/IMG_20141224_171939606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP9ZXfS7kkRapOoAXQBRI3HB-Nyj8zVNm024oWVotZOvFdmbDOQYOdLALW-L82WCsm3eydQKVy_qaQGwezEctbG51EGsaTJc9zhOdTNyJgEYPOLTsDhyphenhyphenqdgcv_QBIc6UX1qDrSJA/s1600/IMG_20141224_171939606.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
And the girls got matching Frozen jammies.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8PteEeCxraOs4y710xONLVKU2x2q72vIRzAePjMMw_wxc9lYYBA1LoeRd58x-G0Iiw7Ys2Zo1bOdbjWnc-m_M-PWKGbzOGKawwwGbgtpD0wLAmC_TZQS8TgmnXGA5xpqb3UG7Q/s1600/IMG_20141224_171948641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8PteEeCxraOs4y710xONLVKU2x2q72vIRzAePjMMw_wxc9lYYBA1LoeRd58x-G0Iiw7Ys2Zo1bOdbjWnc-m_M-PWKGbzOGKawwwGbgtpD0wLAmC_TZQS8TgmnXGA5xpqb3UG7Q/s1600/IMG_20141224_171948641.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
I think the girls were the only ones who cared about matching anyways.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hfuAdpgndgCBNoiw6GB01KO_KC0lJwrRUiG7KVRtibBXD0RGcwjFQmxfkBnsce8pbgoeaSjWC32w7m3U0Y-dnnJfCK48aNnVZ-kXfyHipflxBz3bNi3IKXjMNYWspTpse0Dj2Q/s1600/IMG_20141224_171953012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hfuAdpgndgCBNoiw6GB01KO_KC0lJwrRUiG7KVRtibBXD0RGcwjFQmxfkBnsce8pbgoeaSjWC32w7m3U0Y-dnnJfCK48aNnVZ-kXfyHipflxBz3bNi3IKXjMNYWspTpse0Dj2Q/s1600/IMG_20141224_171953012.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Our Christmas Eve meal was delicious- basically ham and veggies. And a bottle of Sparkling grape juice, because we're fancy like that. We listened to Christmas music and read some Christmas stories, then everyone excitedly went to bed. This is the first year we have a decidedly non-Santa believer, but he was remarkably good at keeping the magic alive for his younger siblings this year. Peter has also been puzzling over some big questions about the guy, but remains on the fence. I think for now, he is happy to believe. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuBWSB2OzxMJGVYuvrHWipxU7K-GbOkAWECO2nF6XLVusR4iBLQYzPAXWoJkEEvrB7uuIepfaxqJTZBr2dcI7ySO2fPyf4dTAhN1TLTujn0GPkl25e6ewUo6LqvMeuUaWY2hD0tQ/s1600/IMG_20141224_181711593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuBWSB2OzxMJGVYuvrHWipxU7K-GbOkAWECO2nF6XLVusR4iBLQYzPAXWoJkEEvrB7uuIepfaxqJTZBr2dcI7ySO2fPyf4dTAhN1TLTujn0GPkl25e6ewUo6LqvMeuUaWY2hD0tQ/s1600/IMG_20141224_181711593.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The next morning at exactly 6:30, the anxious quiet voices got a little louder, and the kids scurried into Lydia's room to wake her up. Then the four of them piled into our room to get the go-ahead. We all went down together, and had a magical morning emptying stockings and taking turns opening each gift. Lydia could not have been more delighted with the sippy cups that she found in her stocking. I love how easy to please toddlers are in the gift department.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4lYjGfmlKehseYmO0Wa28BdAz580PjNJtwM3JBkTig-d8zOltSqzQg4eDkwDxictIRO-tRzgWW9E-yNCSMCmPg1OUI9gNaEUinrijr6Q_IcFi5zoqj9Qh2Wimr-7taZC5CxASg/s1600/IMG_20141225_064722887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4lYjGfmlKehseYmO0Wa28BdAz580PjNJtwM3JBkTig-d8zOltSqzQg4eDkwDxictIRO-tRzgWW9E-yNCSMCmPg1OUI9gNaEUinrijr6Q_IcFi5zoqj9Qh2Wimr-7taZC5CxASg/s1600/IMG_20141225_064722887.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Benjamin was delighted to get his video game and hockey/soccer nets that he wanted. He only asked for those two things this year, because "that way you'll at least get one." He's figured out how to get exactly what he wants. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgquUClZH_3d_I8DLOBLxD31Qd1w_S4gKCz9IcEqJa9KIHcjcnnN-aW6AF-xBtFtSFztgQ-QDYtBC29YHDclYOg0aaUCtPi60ykuGjqsgW4SCt8dAIEw40FbKzwUjInpRtFFIHWwA/s1600/IMG_20141225_064813323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgquUClZH_3d_I8DLOBLxD31Qd1w_S4gKCz9IcEqJa9KIHcjcnnN-aW6AF-xBtFtSFztgQ-QDYtBC29YHDclYOg0aaUCtPi60ykuGjqsgW4SCt8dAIEw40FbKzwUjInpRtFFIHWwA/s1600/IMG_20141225_064813323.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Benjamin wanted Lydia to open his present first thing. It was really sweet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WT1BJnqyGKFDZN1148MDp1mweF5PRuxX6tCsd7aJA5MsaniwwJ8JQ-VwDm4q_D1hWPg4G-nu1j_wTWztAfjbQ9u6Zr71hvwoz3a8fqYJKNwPp71eFA7ph4fhSKrEFq7PXsQ79g/s1600/IMG_20141225_065319446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WT1BJnqyGKFDZN1148MDp1mweF5PRuxX6tCsd7aJA5MsaniwwJ8JQ-VwDm4q_D1hWPg4G-nu1j_wTWztAfjbQ9u6Zr71hvwoz3a8fqYJKNwPp71eFA7ph4fhSKrEFq7PXsQ79g/s1600/IMG_20141225_065319446.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
And Benjamin loved the hat that Peter gave him.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTumOt3lTVojSQDJJGMrUMUN6AnsQGudioBO9WB8KSXC7xQMCe7oAm0KOXWMcVrI2-ujqRbJjcg7QYi5jXjxIVfq2ArdIV1gErEWkkGcWWH3F2lGsLK3xz2zGlEK7KyCpZAwcXw/s1600/IMG_20141225_075545748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTumOt3lTVojSQDJJGMrUMUN6AnsQGudioBO9WB8KSXC7xQMCe7oAm0KOXWMcVrI2-ujqRbJjcg7QYi5jXjxIVfq2ArdIV1gErEWkkGcWWH3F2lGsLK3xz2zGlEK7KyCpZAwcXw/s1600/IMG_20141225_075545748.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Nora's "Tinkerbelle tent" from Santa ended up being a fun striped teepee with Tinkerbelle hanging out inside, which was so thoughtful of Santa because that way this thing can hang out in the family room all the time, and not constantly offend Mommy's retinas. ;) Actually, it turned out that Nora miraculously amended her wish list on her own, and wrote Santa a second letter in glorious four year old scrawl that said "Teepee. Not tent. (heart) Nora."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0wKSpw9Q85dOey_y0sFz7S9t9mzFD-LQoD7vvI5jvUZ4pw6MOlUq5rVBwMe4ebh7R7cxGSwqE109y7zcIu3w7NB6r6bON1dTXaAlKF850iG-CNghV_Ecr011YWX41CV1NYmzWA/s1600/IMG_20141225_075834373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0wKSpw9Q85dOey_y0sFz7S9t9mzFD-LQoD7vvI5jvUZ4pw6MOlUq5rVBwMe4ebh7R7cxGSwqE109y7zcIu3w7NB6r6bON1dTXaAlKF850iG-CNghV_Ecr011YWX41CV1NYmzWA/s1600/IMG_20141225_075834373.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Christmas morning is always a magical time. I love watching the kids play together, delighted with their new things.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjklwdEk3NjOhgtsU1a1aOQ5FDRRIPprEmDwCSDUNkT6LfCO_wbp7qFLAocoiCSCDUjrVcWrgWht7H9S0O0E1cp14vcIc_74dysFh3oL_z8500OVwsdr-3XBjYMdlkZkNWbTWxSKg/s1600/IMG_20141225_101917387.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjklwdEk3NjOhgtsU1a1aOQ5FDRRIPprEmDwCSDUNkT6LfCO_wbp7qFLAocoiCSCDUjrVcWrgWht7H9S0O0E1cp14vcIc_74dysFh3oL_z8500OVwsdr-3XBjYMdlkZkNWbTWxSKg/s1600/IMG_20141225_101917387.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Peter had asked for a Playmobil castle for his birthday, but it didn't make it in time, so Santa brought it instead. That was his favorite present!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVghwg6rbH8_f_TIu1CAFe3mfmFNDpYMsuRJHlWOg3yPNqDfBdV9kpkgOWzxf3rT_a9UPhV4CHHTLrhJMqtG1Qv5TYK1D3CIbx-akgAjLkTUrqlbrj9kUlPgpjwVstWCu6KkImxg/s1600/IMG_20141225_171442475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVghwg6rbH8_f_TIu1CAFe3mfmFNDpYMsuRJHlWOg3yPNqDfBdV9kpkgOWzxf3rT_a9UPhV4CHHTLrhJMqtG1Qv5TYK1D3CIbx-akgAjLkTUrqlbrj9kUlPgpjwVstWCu6KkImxg/s1600/IMG_20141225_171442475.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Another thing that we did this year was select and deliver presents to a family that actually lives near Ferguson (and you'd have to be living in a hole to not have heard of that place this season). They were really nice, and it was a blessing for us to get to know them a little bit and to share in the Christmas spirit together.<br />
I am so grateful for everything that we have, but I am also grateful to know that these are all just things. If it was all taken away tomorrow, I honestly don't think I'd be crushed by it. I'm grateful for family- the people who I treasure most, who love me at my best and at my worst. I'm grateful for the gospel, and for the temple covenants that I've made that extend the promises I've made in this life into the life to come. And most importantly, I'm grateful for my Savior, who came to this life as vulnerable as any tiny infant, who lived His life perfectly, and who died for me. I am grateful to know that He lives, and that because He lives, I will also live again. I love the perfect, sweet message that His life brings. This is truly what it's all about. Merry Christmas, everyone!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-6431761797699595092014-12-10T21:09:00.000-06:002014-12-10T21:09:29.273-06:00ThanksgivingHow is it already half-way through December?! We've had Christmas stuff up for a few weeks now, but it still feels like we just put down Thanksgiving. We had such a great time this year hosting a nice big Thanksgiving. Including the six in our family, there were twenty people staying in our house for a few days. I absolutely love that we have the space to be able to do that now. Thanksgiving is one holiday where I feel like the more, the merrier! I mean, you go to all that effort anyways, why not share it with tons of people you love?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOptY4UloXZUCX6oThf5FbR8gDIiOMMb_xmI1kSw3d1gPqy07WvGxFfwa_NIzVea-oiy-0OCHOu8OmLu4_OPbp_X_rk4zrmYyne4F0JDxrzSZmD3QmU9rbUrYi0qREsbtLJGdFQ/s1600/IMG_20141126_184706784_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOptY4UloXZUCX6oThf5FbR8gDIiOMMb_xmI1kSw3d1gPqy07WvGxFfwa_NIzVea-oiy-0OCHOu8OmLu4_OPbp_X_rk4zrmYyne4F0JDxrzSZmD3QmU9rbUrYi0qREsbtLJGdFQ/s1600/IMG_20141126_184706784_HDR.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Wednesday night, cousins started trickling in. Nora and Gloria could not have been any more excited to see each other again!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx-epikX70uqwR-BrPYHZnUvK9lEPs7d_GCE8dZdw3kUUHW0S4N2Ujw3VizfNPNGD86gCiRo3OMNcJ0_ZLbERmC94DGEjpg-6Zz7Lu5YWGsWv9nodq-3hGVuOPQKUrNCy-sNOnNA/s1600/IMG_20141127_152704596_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx-epikX70uqwR-BrPYHZnUvK9lEPs7d_GCE8dZdw3kUUHW0S4N2Ujw3VizfNPNGD86gCiRo3OMNcJ0_ZLbERmC94DGEjpg-6Zz7Lu5YWGsWv9nodq-3hGVuOPQKUrNCy-sNOnNA/s1600/IMG_20141127_152704596_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Paul was the master of the turkeys this year, and had fits of nervousness all morning that he was waiting too long to put them in. He did one in the oven, and one on the smoker- both "spatchcocked," which made them decidedly less Norman Rockwell-ish, but they cooked a lot faster, which was the goal. They were delicious!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48dwzPFgGYDeKrBFFRfGH3RKEmbjZJxm5TVT_136oD0qWJc-StCFGRHiUL1ZRRo1d9XIZwJOlFAbaRrrzi6FwaA37luASN7buSm_xsdqK9d1tMXUjibOgcraeQUMJSiqAAqHhCg/s1600/IMG_20141127_152830861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48dwzPFgGYDeKrBFFRfGH3RKEmbjZJxm5TVT_136oD0qWJc-StCFGRHiUL1ZRRo1d9XIZwJOlFAbaRrrzi6FwaA37luASN7buSm_xsdqK9d1tMXUjibOgcraeQUMJSiqAAqHhCg/s1600/IMG_20141127_152830861.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Everyone brought various dishes, making my job of hosting a breeze! I made rolls, creamed corn and a salad, and that was it. We had SO MUCH FOOD, all of it exquisite!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5AdXArih0m3EgkUivW9uQkwkbKQUKhuirLMxrCMyUHxAnKWAt4k9q4BLT-JCtCF7fhNucLQw20qrNLoaiufNtMuinQiBPWlT2jep82g94XtX2BRgjsMOjXkAM_apVEYq35LhoCA/s1600/IMG_20141127_163905729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5AdXArih0m3EgkUivW9uQkwkbKQUKhuirLMxrCMyUHxAnKWAt4k9q4BLT-JCtCF7fhNucLQw20qrNLoaiufNtMuinQiBPWlT2jep82g94XtX2BRgjsMOjXkAM_apVEYq35LhoCA/s1600/IMG_20141127_163905729.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Paul's Aunt Gloria brought cute little turkey candles and napkin rings that they use in their family every year. They paired perfectly with what I had planned for the tables.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNtjcFvVQ7NdjxQFiOZR4VhVt0gzA9Ni5yVQU2YL9zvY0g8QdbgETVJ-uKx2QbwR5xQHukoHG0qkLM-zwcBgadJrls4Bupq5LiQyfoNfXrdoDfT8QoxvwonoWJ4EyKd-RtG5ayw/s1600/IMG_20141127_165518209_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNtjcFvVQ7NdjxQFiOZR4VhVt0gzA9Ni5yVQU2YL9zvY0g8QdbgETVJ-uKx2QbwR5xQHukoHG0qkLM-zwcBgadJrls4Bupq5LiQyfoNfXrdoDfT8QoxvwonoWJ4EyKd-RtG5ayw/s1600/IMG_20141127_165518209_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
These three were instant buddies, and disappeared together for hours at a time. At this table was Gloria, Nora, Ari and Lincoln.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWc-t04fKHGB5aPduaFyga979vf6BPqEPREMReN6vC0s9afbOi0nVaDYsBhRaBTrXzFkHyuBfKDGDxCobewHE_G5BqU1O9Lays04s5UWZnOk8yTIfK-9EzG9MwV8oOTZ5g9bEC6g/s1600/IMG_20141127_165358839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWc-t04fKHGB5aPduaFyga979vf6BPqEPREMReN6vC0s9afbOi0nVaDYsBhRaBTrXzFkHyuBfKDGDxCobewHE_G5BqU1O9Lays04s5UWZnOk8yTIfK-9EzG9MwV8oOTZ5g9bEC6g/s1600/IMG_20141127_165358839.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
The boys bonded over Minecraft mostly. And I tried really hard to be ok with that. :) At this table, there was Cannon, Lydia, Peter, Benjamin and Henry.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR0iWNcvXxAmCmPEMFdqHZG5VWb7slfl_O7mRX_7ZRzHVoH9iFDz023Qwpas8DfuKHPIGerhYtBZIPHKuIjbhsvbr0J1Lpr8yKHWlYl9EGtyjJ7dy96bPTzz2zMJWZErzl9d-1cQ/s1600/IMG_20141127_170056997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR0iWNcvXxAmCmPEMFdqHZG5VWb7slfl_O7mRX_7ZRzHVoH9iFDz023Qwpas8DfuKHPIGerhYtBZIPHKuIjbhsvbr0J1Lpr8yKHWlYl9EGtyjJ7dy96bPTzz2zMJWZErzl9d-1cQ/s1600/IMG_20141127_170056997.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
And at the main table, we had Adrea, Josh, Seth, Maddy, Paul, Tony, Gloria, Abby, Patrick and me. I think baby Elliot must have been just out of the shot.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZQC4xzT6j9ORHfR82ZwKUf0fN6RjLWXP_zUt3vG4EeYjYsOY0HNofPR9OxgUtJbXQYmKsO9xpFVqOKVstTXFbG1XvVt3godnHdVHcKGQDwZKvYmGz7WPcPdBmBawiMqKHB2Ang/s1600/IMG_20141127_170112193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZQC4xzT6j9ORHfR82ZwKUf0fN6RjLWXP_zUt3vG4EeYjYsOY0HNofPR9OxgUtJbXQYmKsO9xpFVqOKVstTXFbG1XvVt3godnHdVHcKGQDwZKvYmGz7WPcPdBmBawiMqKHB2Ang/s1600/IMG_20141127_170112193.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
As kids thinned out during the evenings, we played some really funny games together. We have a drawing game that tends to be a favorite among this group!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS-LUJ63Z7AIJfKMLq1iofPVPAo59x7KWl7tm3BlAvhH9SrmOniJ46wvh6ag2zvgkKm5DsYSueUdtu8muTOWxmTgVpSuHn2jXpEtUeW_ZV3BKRsbel2y4QgsxKDnWbcw4jSvUREA/s1600/IMG_20141127_204644202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS-LUJ63Z7AIJfKMLq1iofPVPAo59x7KWl7tm3BlAvhH9SrmOniJ46wvh6ag2zvgkKm5DsYSueUdtu8muTOWxmTgVpSuHn2jXpEtUeW_ZV3BKRsbel2y4QgsxKDnWbcw4jSvUREA/s1600/IMG_20141127_204644202.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Lincoln and Lydia got some fresh air the next day. We took a walk while the others went to go see Big Hero 6 and Interstellar. Then later we all swapped and a bunch of us went to see Mockingjay part 1.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMwnoMowpnB6vB4EJ-znzbwUGpAwmxABLz9B6MNF5HSu9EZUdLA6rOd9L9eDDTrVStH_elYRE1IfZEh0a1hvJaeKvn6eUhh0Y7U-W2S8zdpuTIXwDwb4Xy9pdg56f9KPuoUMh3A/s1600/IMG_20141128_115431182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMwnoMowpnB6vB4EJ-znzbwUGpAwmxABLz9B6MNF5HSu9EZUdLA6rOd9L9eDDTrVStH_elYRE1IfZEh0a1hvJaeKvn6eUhh0Y7U-W2S8zdpuTIXwDwb4Xy9pdg56f9KPuoUMh3A/s1600/IMG_20141128_115431182.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
It was a low key evening of pizza and more games.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZwRHKNc1LgUaFwlW6eUg-4TVMa9Qv1Alh96RrHNuonDyncYNlb7xMPHLgHfCFlHACAHxDvl8pRj-yxXNGOhijAlzgjG_ECQDCjgStYl_ePnZek3sfXERpDjEFP1uAwRp9uu9ow/s1600/IMG_20141128_173656071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZwRHKNc1LgUaFwlW6eUg-4TVMa9Qv1Alh96RrHNuonDyncYNlb7xMPHLgHfCFlHACAHxDvl8pRj-yxXNGOhijAlzgjG_ECQDCjgStYl_ePnZek3sfXERpDjEFP1uAwRp9uu9ow/s1600/IMG_20141128_173656071.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
I got a picture of the six who are related in the group. Adrea and Maddy are sisters, and are Paul's cousins. Gloria is his aunt, and Cannon is her son- Paul's cousin. Then Abby is of course Paul's sister. Our house was about 4-6 hours for everyone, right in the middle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8A3Dn9gMkuDx5Nui8X7MKL6X3QpAQLYUHscBrl3Qg7U250z2DK-6aAPQY_ubpjNCK-29M3zczE17Fn5RqbqtZfl39EeCzw2rG1tumiKLxrHscIcaBbAQO9TEvUFRFbCYGNZ0lsQ/s1600/IMG_20141128_214037219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8A3Dn9gMkuDx5Nui8X7MKL6X3QpAQLYUHscBrl3Qg7U250z2DK-6aAPQY_ubpjNCK-29M3zczE17Fn5RqbqtZfl39EeCzw2rG1tumiKLxrHscIcaBbAQO9TEvUFRFbCYGNZ0lsQ/s1600/IMG_20141128_214037219.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Saturday was gorgeous, so we got out and headed to the zoo.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXSmw5WDpfjx016mrbyWq6RUYTtC6G5ELw3Q6AL-aD81z3CiZAGwc-XIrs3UIv441rt1MZ2XJO_HZoy2zJG4tRqNumoaYC0nFEDq4lnsNNd_x7HCeBpWWwyGvw5-RDJDjm3F0_3w/s1600/IMG_20141129_145952585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXSmw5WDpfjx016mrbyWq6RUYTtC6G5ELw3Q6AL-aD81z3CiZAGwc-XIrs3UIv441rt1MZ2XJO_HZoy2zJG4tRqNumoaYC0nFEDq4lnsNNd_x7HCeBpWWwyGvw5-RDJDjm3F0_3w/s1600/IMG_20141129_145952585.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFTPnaZyjkHEi-u28DMetQTMD4foSjUTufoqfdXQyXHJgeI0Y_SvQmHKTdAf9nnBzWsQx_HpsUtQaTsAZR-3GqfB0r6vdmT3b73Z8jFVhtOzS_W1IWVsvYQtu1UJfFBBCYzwOPmA/s1600/IMG_20141129_154801872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFTPnaZyjkHEi-u28DMetQTMD4foSjUTufoqfdXQyXHJgeI0Y_SvQmHKTdAf9nnBzWsQx_HpsUtQaTsAZR-3GqfB0r6vdmT3b73Z8jFVhtOzS_W1IWVsvYQtu1UJfFBBCYzwOPmA/s1600/IMG_20141129_154801872.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQsrHDYds9Q1oRlSp0rM-Rj7dZkoZqiqUHdvTagdN5qGKukcMfeis035-kye1RndwAK4x9lo_CvEnCWyxIfhe4URR7K5f6lSlZOCrwzTyfNkv3p3r8sjiI4f1WrZqp3s7o_jYcw/s1600/IMG_20141129_163743074_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQsrHDYds9Q1oRlSp0rM-Rj7dZkoZqiqUHdvTagdN5qGKukcMfeis035-kye1RndwAK4x9lo_CvEnCWyxIfhe4URR7K5f6lSlZOCrwzTyfNkv3p3r8sjiI4f1WrZqp3s7o_jYcw/s1600/IMG_20141129_163743074_HDR.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Then it was time for goodbyes. These two were comforted only by the fact that they'll see each other again in just over a month! Fun times ahead...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejZRaaNU4RPXd8bJ1sl7voYFsQLZBgpcKsOze_KELDS7JVngVRz7vHFWwHjVwGxm1hgtOtThz6GugoYoRozEycVzwClY2fbGHZLsKEzsoY9stDTK3ACAkPFdzx8MeINyNG_GfCg/s1600/IMG_20141130_085702762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejZRaaNU4RPXd8bJ1sl7voYFsQLZBgpcKsOze_KELDS7JVngVRz7vHFWwHjVwGxm1hgtOtThz6GugoYoRozEycVzwClY2fbGHZLsKEzsoY9stDTK3ACAkPFdzx8MeINyNG_GfCg/s1600/IMG_20141130_085702762.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-79633318199901279442014-11-23T22:36:00.001-06:002014-11-23T22:54:17.574-06:00Fall Time Catch Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This post is going to have to act as a catch-all for the past month- from about Halloween on. Later this week, we'll have twenty people stay at our house, which I'm sure will deserve a post all its own. Life has been full and good. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
One day after school, Benjamin and some neighbor kids all ran in, excitedly asking if they could go rake our elderly neighbors' yard. They spent a good hour or so out there, raking piles and bagging them up. I thought that was really sweet of them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMwDHzYeRnG-bshUGNVDD7i8CXtV9ddwbZVUEVhzMhY949vGeX-VxzToFkw6fh1fdGdLZWKt4xz0NhFRjWzIk_vxE7sPV_buOto8ijZSIEVLaHnt1SlCiPOersdmrjL8QM1M_PA/s1600/IMG_2705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMwDHzYeRnG-bshUGNVDD7i8CXtV9ddwbZVUEVhzMhY949vGeX-VxzToFkw6fh1fdGdLZWKt4xz0NhFRjWzIk_vxE7sPV_buOto8ijZSIEVLaHnt1SlCiPOersdmrjL8QM1M_PA/s1600/IMG_2705.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've had a lot more leaves here than we're used to. It's been a constant battle to stay on top of raking, but luckily we have some good helpers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASRUv7zKcPesZUrSbtoSW8AKdEoW2hNuyuob98G1O7_uz5D2TpF5hmLBnBDY1_3oWcZKD3hf1AeyQPRTt9a_qUmIwL8V05QVKeq_8G9macyMsdCA818ph0n_2sRnQT5V7Guu78w/s1600/IMG_20141028_154010181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASRUv7zKcPesZUrSbtoSW8AKdEoW2hNuyuob98G1O7_uz5D2TpF5hmLBnBDY1_3oWcZKD3hf1AeyQPRTt9a_qUmIwL8V05QVKeq_8G9macyMsdCA818ph0n_2sRnQT5V7Guu78w/s1600/IMG_20141028_154010181.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nora's Joy School class has been a lot of fun. Those four girls are really cute together. For Halloween, they all got to dress up and they learned the "Mean Old Witch" song, which I still remember from my early childhood. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2GBN9v0NuaSyGBej6OW7mf4s5wGLNbzBn_IxYGYh3HLap2GQsBizkgjHJmTDLTxRWnYN2_9BW-eWLTq_waywNFCYFQ56FQawZ4C8VVw9CyTKnI0KHt67C9XARJ0X2jmObVIkdQ/s1600/IMG_20141030_094304537_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2GBN9v0NuaSyGBej6OW7mf4s5wGLNbzBn_IxYGYh3HLap2GQsBizkgjHJmTDLTxRWnYN2_9BW-eWLTq_waywNFCYFQ56FQawZ4C8VVw9CyTKnI0KHt67C9XARJ0X2jmObVIkdQ/s1600/IMG_20141030_094304537_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also met at the Butterfly House one morning. I had all the kids home with me because it was voting day and the schools were being used for the polls. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvreWjRr4lPdw6fBc70nvQtaNt2GS5FlfFG_42yTSH5anBKyymnCLVhD9j4zOvfRHWYtEp24LFjePZ35NknCnJtL32tNpPhf1mNo7NK5tpbeDKlGY5tL5xgg8fUN6c26hLpBKjg/s1600/IMG_20141104_102726795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvreWjRr4lPdw6fBc70nvQtaNt2GS5FlfFG_42yTSH5anBKyymnCLVhD9j4zOvfRHWYtEp24LFjePZ35NknCnJtL32tNpPhf1mNo7NK5tpbeDKlGY5tL5xgg8fUN6c26hLpBKjg/s1600/IMG_20141104_102726795.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Nora acquiesced to my suggestion that she be Anna this year. She had wanted to be Elsa, but I thought this one would be warmer and cuter (and possibly a <i>teensy</i> bit less common). We found one of those dollar store hair extension headbands (which I braided) that perfectly matched her red hair, and paired it with this dress she got for her birthday and her black boots. I made the hat out of some old sweatpants. It certainly wasn't perfect, but I was pretty proud of it, considering I didn't have a pattern.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumK7y8RHSif1calbwjdBgVzPX9zF7d_QooMTZZy5Nhqg3wicz4Hzy7X0ILMpky48MIHacZBlAomo_XFk7svgvYhwMN6wYw9oYm_gsadbkZe6kZDcFWcjN0v7pb3RKrpbCkccsSQ/s1600/IMG_2712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumK7y8RHSif1calbwjdBgVzPX9zF7d_QooMTZZy5Nhqg3wicz4Hzy7X0ILMpky48MIHacZBlAomo_XFk7svgvYhwMN6wYw9oYm_gsadbkZe6kZDcFWcjN0v7pb3RKrpbCkccsSQ/s1600/IMG_2712.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Peter wanted to be a garden gnome, and he enjoyed running around telling people "Give me a treat or I'll make mischief in your garden!" His costume was pretty simple to make too. I made the hat out of felt and some fake fur, and reused our old Frodo coat (altered a few years ago, from Goodwill). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglzzLkoUIQ6qG91MgVjIc4nE9ro0gWTwEHIKAsaYL7C1rHq1P9uIEJvyIAMlrJfPQ0wWT1eW_Yvy-aJajQJ8vsGCMi20FfPWVvboHUWLV0hlWBWlX7c7N6ZQjyYqnRlIFtCiAqJg/s1600/IMG_20141024_190307929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglzzLkoUIQ6qG91MgVjIc4nE9ro0gWTwEHIKAsaYL7C1rHq1P9uIEJvyIAMlrJfPQ0wWT1eW_Yvy-aJajQJ8vsGCMi20FfPWVvboHUWLV0hlWBWlX7c7N6ZQjyYqnRlIFtCiAqJg/s1600/IMG_20141024_190307929.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Benjamin wanted to be a vampire, so I used some black velvet I already had on hand and some cheap red liner to make him a cape. He just wore his suit pants and white shirt, and we were good. Lydia's tiger costume was a Goodwill find, and absolutely perfect for her. She had her part down pat- saying "RAWR!" whenever someone asked what the tiger says. Cheap, easy costumes for the win!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ct8_MAcxUF4ReKfrPFoIY1WAcBuIfVLfComVmZKN5mngOnvhgGokovApmdh_2aTPvOqDJ8_XrBymIRwsamz9YB6W68qllHjiTWFfzbCqeFQFRpC3-mXvBrlL7eXYJvbWNeulUQ/s1600/IMG_20141024_182102878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ct8_MAcxUF4ReKfrPFoIY1WAcBuIfVLfComVmZKN5mngOnvhgGokovApmdh_2aTPvOqDJ8_XrBymIRwsamz9YB6W68qllHjiTWFfzbCqeFQFRpC3-mXvBrlL7eXYJvbWNeulUQ/s1600/IMG_20141024_182102878.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I just realized that I have NO pictures of our ward's Halloween party, which Paul and I helped plan. That was a time consuming project, but it turned out pretty well. I headed up the decorations for it, and we had a fun trick or treat spook alley inside along one of the halls and a chili cook-off. It was a break from our traditional "trunk-or-treat," which caused a lot of grumbling- especially when the night turned out to be an unseasonably balmy 70 degrees. Oh, well. The past few years it has been all outdoors, and of course those nights were freezing, and people had coats on covering their costumes. Not to mention it was always really dark...and so that's over. ;)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Peter lost another tooth this month! He no longer likes taking apples in his lunches...or anything crunchy. I remember feeling that way as a kid. Too much effort to eat. It would be really nice if his top teeth decided to come in soon, but I don't have much hope for them. It could be years if his genes are anything like Ben's.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidzgZDJuGVjARfTT-lzhfkHoF9zV__XRTixy-VGIeneyjw9MOwYRwrbDRPdC1Nga8QTmVURrAF0tXOGam878HrUOrLfJ_rUqtweoWRjUTJ3huENNPUB_DVLHBoagEGh-87t6f66A/s1600/IMG_20141030_073534415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidzgZDJuGVjARfTT-lzhfkHoF9zV__XRTixy-VGIeneyjw9MOwYRwrbDRPdC1Nga8QTmVURrAF0tXOGam878HrUOrLfJ_rUqtweoWRjUTJ3huENNPUB_DVLHBoagEGh-87t6f66A/s1600/IMG_20141030_073534415.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Peter had a cough for a while (much like Benjamin did at Disney World), that finally turned into pneumonia. We took him in to the doctor, and had flashbacks to this kid at 1 1/2 months old, when he had RSV and had to regularly do the nebulizer. The breathing treatment didn't do much for him this time, so it was strictly an antibiotic regimen, which he LOVED. (heavy sarcasm intended) ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgvRS6KFdiKZI7hgYSd7C6JhathwJyPTa9MnFpab_vRROiYgQ1PdWPZqwPg1SBkX2lWW5_IiQnx2tvHMnnjaZoIPvhCulf72NNaNCgp2EI88EbijMLT9n3LR7dA1InAvbEUr6xhA/s1600/IMG_20141031_112903168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgvRS6KFdiKZI7hgYSd7C6JhathwJyPTa9MnFpab_vRROiYgQ1PdWPZqwPg1SBkX2lWW5_IiQnx2tvHMnnjaZoIPvhCulf72NNaNCgp2EI88EbijMLT9n3LR7dA1InAvbEUr6xhA/s1600/IMG_20141031_112903168.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He and I made a date to get frozen custard when it was all done. And just as a note of interest, raspberry is and always will be my favorite flavor. Pumpkin pie was just a waste. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SGseXsVOpyaXR3JYDwxo3HpvUyXL1_cOCT4h8syS4dXDx_iZlMX4yFlR_iKDvaziYf1XXo4ASzRLB0wKeYqmNcintYzCd5K24hzGf1sEEuM_v1D18XRE7kikYGkahTVjzYOpig/s1600/IMG_20141117_185235120_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SGseXsVOpyaXR3JYDwxo3HpvUyXL1_cOCT4h8syS4dXDx_iZlMX4yFlR_iKDvaziYf1XXo4ASzRLB0wKeYqmNcintYzCd5K24hzGf1sEEuM_v1D18XRE7kikYGkahTVjzYOpig/s1600/IMG_20141117_185235120_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Cub Scouts has been...going. I'm still finding it hard to really get into it. I've had so much on my plate with other things, that it's honestly kind of taken back seat. We have three boys. Two show up regularly. The one that we've planned it around comes about 50% of the time. We've got to get better at this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHwQkGvfaESb9SgKNKaaEA1ZMZaQXLUwijZqtbKuGLBCcoZRrl1veqF4jiYFqGsM3W025mv2aYB2D1MzAuqQeWkSaf2gdHpdAHkrg4i1-mrAXj56i9cKhpmEFOwhB7FSS3Qmkrg/s1600/IMG_20141105_195657112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHwQkGvfaESb9SgKNKaaEA1ZMZaQXLUwijZqtbKuGLBCcoZRrl1veqF4jiYFqGsM3W025mv2aYB2D1MzAuqQeWkSaf2gdHpdAHkrg4i1-mrAXj56i9cKhpmEFOwhB7FSS3Qmkrg/s1600/IMG_20141105_195657112.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Earlier this month, some friends of ours invited us to help celebrate and commemorate 25 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. I got a great <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/german-rouladen/">recipe</a> from my sister who just spent the past three years in Germany, and brought it for our German themed dinner. It was SO good, I'm thinking of making it our traditional Christmas dinner.<br />
The kids all got to help build and paint this wall...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxCn2hmzo9slFSzPfBnIYf9DhWzua10rGQBGAJU4nlrKwCqpM2rZgoN1QiUR3STkyMWBKbIk48G6aM3QEjDwwfLGedZX2Vvk_P4U3q2gBuagAEAnbgTZcl_RhfpE3fIpumr6-1RA/s1600/IMG_20141108_174830634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxCn2hmzo9slFSzPfBnIYf9DhWzua10rGQBGAJU4nlrKwCqpM2rZgoN1QiUR3STkyMWBKbIk48G6aM3QEjDwwfLGedZX2Vvk_P4U3q2gBuagAEAnbgTZcl_RhfpE3fIpumr6-1RA/s1600/IMG_20141108_174830634.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
...which eventually looked like this. It was a pretty great replica of the Berlin Wall.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_pZgLx7QNqpiwdTHnXLLV3u4VvTkwA2wLEIs-bxAGarZQqf-K4smo5atRNWLzScHChGp3glQ4wIqTTjpuhL-OD0t-c_XjJh1kPqOGxZUUcRGgHB1xAI64ZBsVj_CSUXoOTVOIA/s1600/IMG_20141108_192923149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_pZgLx7QNqpiwdTHnXLLV3u4VvTkwA2wLEIs-bxAGarZQqf-K4smo5atRNWLzScHChGp3glQ4wIqTTjpuhL-OD0t-c_XjJh1kPqOGxZUUcRGgHB1xAI64ZBsVj_CSUXoOTVOIA/s1600/IMG_20141108_192923149.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The kids then each took turns destroying it with a sledge hammer, then climbing through once the hole was big enough. It was a powerful lesson in history. I think my kids will have a better understanding of this moment in history than I did for most of my life. To help them understand the Berlin Wall, we also read a few books to them before we went- <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wall-Growing-Behind-Curtain-Caldecott-ebook/dp/B00L74GRT6/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1416801390&sr=1-4&keywords=the+wall">The Wall,</a> by Peter Sis, and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Heaven-Story-Berlin-Bomber/dp/1609077008/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1416801464&sr=1-4&keywords=candy+bomber">Christmas From Heaven</a>, by Tom Brokaw. Both were excellent.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYaX8mu6wT7ggrh_NFxzCJ_8vVQadFQ1lot-1bcdkJJCT_dmv72zhsrWm12ae4vEWFUIqVLxuLG_XK5ioHfLFo2KKVoh-FGWxRNCq__LrWvOWv-t9Zwdi5IqPE1ontUJjByVRPA/s1600/IMG_20141108_193817032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYaX8mu6wT7ggrh_NFxzCJ_8vVQadFQ1lot-1bcdkJJCT_dmv72zhsrWm12ae4vEWFUIqVLxuLG_XK5ioHfLFo2KKVoh-FGWxRNCq__LrWvOWv-t9Zwdi5IqPE1ontUJjByVRPA/s1600/IMG_20141108_193817032.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I snapped this picture at the Primary Program practice, the day before the actual program. The kids all did great with their parts, and Benjamin even sang a beautiful duet. I was really proud of each of them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFnseL7ajYk4sn5Gi-8kkC773-ZxpIg9QyG16sK5WlpZ4FTM8Gm2msfS1gybr-Bxl57FfJMmpruRAYjSA8ovnHXau5j2chXJ5dGemvML9Omb0neR25MvHxgjWBwETXqBdFFbC0Kg/s1600/IMG_20141115_095315116_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFnseL7ajYk4sn5Gi-8kkC773-ZxpIg9QyG16sK5WlpZ4FTM8Gm2msfS1gybr-Bxl57FfJMmpruRAYjSA8ovnHXau5j2chXJ5dGemvML9Omb0neR25MvHxgjWBwETXqBdFFbC0Kg/s1600/IMG_20141115_095315116_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Later that day, Paul came back from a five day business trip to Canada. It was so nice to have him back!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0awAvdAHL4LpH7nIYNB1LuQnbQ4iH_zFpuJekdQuQQUFWkwWmyyaG9pxnBHhnpiu86p5PglIf78SMsRopQMfUvujO_URragfYwoZ7Pm0K7Bkj12WDGj1LWNyWplXMUYtzYcTd8A/s1600/IMG_20141115_153729987_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0awAvdAHL4LpH7nIYNB1LuQnbQ4iH_zFpuJekdQuQQUFWkwWmyyaG9pxnBHhnpiu86p5PglIf78SMsRopQMfUvujO_URragfYwoZ7Pm0K7Bkj12WDGj1LWNyWplXMUYtzYcTd8A/s1600/IMG_20141115_153729987_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Snow came really early this year... It's gone now, but it was sure exciting for the kids. Benjamin's been really into Calvin and Hobbes lately, and was out there trying out all of Calvin's antics. I think he was out there at one point trying to saw some sticks to build himself a sled. :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7L0Sj4hqIXCD8wcbbo9SCTQFQhvFrZcnNmBnzyejTd43XeYVsEGCpr6mQ7mDQJBwNunHR24uUsT6Sk7f5gBDSBL5VZbDT1Egcq3aflzLTZs-u3VJTDR4GzTywuucJOvzupHVYA/s1600/IMG_20141116_163628130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7L0Sj4hqIXCD8wcbbo9SCTQFQhvFrZcnNmBnzyejTd43XeYVsEGCpr6mQ7mDQJBwNunHR24uUsT6Sk7f5gBDSBL5VZbDT1Egcq3aflzLTZs-u3VJTDR4GzTywuucJOvzupHVYA/s1600/IMG_20141116_163628130.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
For weeks, I've been heavily involved in helping to plan our ward's Young Women in Excellence program. These things are a big deal, as in weekly 3-4 hour meetings for a month straight. Lots of planning and thought and preparation go into these nights, and this one was no exception!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim84NZM-LIYVpfz_tZCF6GG43AvFwSKd0Pz7rlbDMwO_zXKRrimB5lHA1zaLqReeUQLE_hmWZwAyqv5r1yPFmUsrOI4vjUxT_r23_75wRuqozFNxPNo5pRtMMpg0YipIbd0GJR_g/s1600/IMG_2730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim84NZM-LIYVpfz_tZCF6GG43AvFwSKd0Pz7rlbDMwO_zXKRrimB5lHA1zaLqReeUQLE_hmWZwAyqv5r1yPFmUsrOI4vjUxT_r23_75wRuqozFNxPNo5pRtMMpg0YipIbd0GJR_g/s1600/IMG_2730.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We decided to go with a travel feel for this year's theme, which was "Come Unto Christ." We collected globes, postcards vintage suitcases, and had the girls make "postcards" highlighting where they'd been on their journey to Christ this year. I snapped these pictures after some of it had already been taken down after the program.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-24sRAJu1rCzcSXHR7Xs67eMiVx-diw6OelaYFhf-E4fcMQ3cbHEGlHB9vLRtjlRoYTM54gVh4GSX3wXDu1-g5UuegZBb9yxpL9yxRhe2gKIr6GGOSMnP7fgemZA75umchAFFGA/s1600/IMG_2736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-24sRAJu1rCzcSXHR7Xs67eMiVx-diw6OelaYFhf-E4fcMQ3cbHEGlHB9vLRtjlRoYTM54gVh4GSX3wXDu1-g5UuegZBb9yxpL9yxRhe2gKIr6GGOSMnP7fgemZA75umchAFFGA/s1600/IMG_2736.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I made the poster, which was behind a decent sized Christus statue. It was already taken down by the time I had a chance to get any pictures. Of course. :) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFoDu5_ctqQ-sQ7YDcd1XzVVOlsL52-zVp3VlG9t5ineaOKro04hHKnmvKLsWOiuDxELgAgZzs6vpOqdNeFkCId-gxqomxqWSrpK5bUhaMbM5a10w_qqlBWwpp7AY-e4AOCfKiQ/s1600/IMG_2733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFoDu5_ctqQ-sQ7YDcd1XzVVOlsL52-zVp3VlG9t5ineaOKro04hHKnmvKLsWOiuDxELgAgZzs6vpOqdNeFkCId-gxqomxqWSrpK5bUhaMbM5a10w_qqlBWwpp7AY-e4AOCfKiQ/s1600/IMG_2733.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
I also prepared a short talk to explain the theme for the night, and I used President Uchtdorf's talk from the April 2013 Young Women's meeting about Journeys. It's a good one. Here's most of the gang. They all got up and spoke. Then there was a video of them each saying parts of <a href="https://www.lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/english/pdf/36035_000_25_livingchrist.pdf">The Living Christ</a>. It was really powerful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqBaPH0h_5kFfznZqS8tDNktlXUj69pHU5snPMCyaTL5yeHpohYAk2sM5A7R1r46cIteBOUyQWaoLIyd9qRC680rHog-wtBTNveE4ZdqSOObFsFsGLpOgiNhme_8l2uB-I1lSzQ/s1600/IMG_20141119_203644194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqBaPH0h_5kFfznZqS8tDNktlXUj69pHU5snPMCyaTL5yeHpohYAk2sM5A7R1r46cIteBOUyQWaoLIyd9qRC680rHog-wtBTNveE4ZdqSOObFsFsGLpOgiNhme_8l2uB-I1lSzQ/s1600/IMG_20141119_203644194.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And finally, here's a fun project that I've been working on. A lady in our ward approached me a few months ago and asked if I'd be interested in designing a room for Haven House (like a Ronald McDonald House for families traveling from far distances to hospitals). Even though I knew my plate was pretty full, I couldn't turn the chance down. This was seriously FUN for me! Here's a few before shots of the room:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPL6amEMLeNFLEWWtsA1d6tqwVpw_2WVo7GFJW9EGEPnihUh6qbXNkOKZsQjjTQPkv4SV-OF4231u4vOupPXs25ZQZatvAMDUyje-P5K_UYca_Pp7ZsaRCPjLzZxilDIZC7Qsew/s1600/IMG_20141024_092300337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPL6amEMLeNFLEWWtsA1d6tqwVpw_2WVo7GFJW9EGEPnihUh6qbXNkOKZsQjjTQPkv4SV-OF4231u4vOupPXs25ZQZatvAMDUyje-P5K_UYca_Pp7ZsaRCPjLzZxilDIZC7Qsew/s1600/IMG_20141024_092300337.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It has a queen bed and two twins. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLT7HRZbEEUwLw6rWHtibdExu1DrDZ4K8z5jjkbotCGyk5plTI1ap9bK_bjbcKG72nFfJrnSBGYQiVMN6e4WPMG64L2Ms_LjlQ4zsYLmjDWOvtfFRFaqulRnYND1RzYDsAEI24Q/s1600/IMG_20141024_092314224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLT7HRZbEEUwLw6rWHtibdExu1DrDZ4K8z5jjkbotCGyk5plTI1ap9bK_bjbcKG72nFfJrnSBGYQiVMN6e4WPMG64L2Ms_LjlQ4zsYLmjDWOvtfFRFaqulRnYND1RzYDsAEI24Q/s1600/IMG_20141024_092314224.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The bathroom was pretty bland too. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxRIm4jhb2ekhCt1YQcH19HeRV91iAo-0P2SilnIbIcqorqc8EABMo-Q5ACuQ-B9Z8P83LTpd4PwSaJ1LagDO0iVOAk30JFgPJynVh25tI_VfJvq2RNYjW0wUiDyBWfxWAewltg/s1600/IMG_20141024_092333094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxRIm4jhb2ekhCt1YQcH19HeRV91iAo-0P2SilnIbIcqorqc8EABMo-Q5ACuQ-B9Z8P83LTpd4PwSaJ1LagDO0iVOAk30JFgPJynVh25tI_VfJvq2RNYjW0wUiDyBWfxWAewltg/s1600/IMG_20141024_092333094.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
And here's where I went with it. These are more like In-Progress photos, to be fair. We painted the walls with Glidden Driftwood Grey, and got all new (donated) furniture. I made a bunch of art and hung them in old Goodwill frames. We were waiting on our handyman to hang the teal curtains here.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5V035HvQDDuV8oqETeqdnVElZbGFHQOKn1TDgTBEACIq3Yq9dGPPICcxZfCH7LO3r9LcoesKJVBtLLLxPbeAVlSviH9VNRsj_JV4Qr3IeYdA6ePcR2IoeOVHI88TeL61zGvhAA/s1600/IMG_20141121_172430771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5V035HvQDDuV8oqETeqdnVElZbGFHQOKn1TDgTBEACIq3Yq9dGPPICcxZfCH7LO3r9LcoesKJVBtLLLxPbeAVlSviH9VNRsj_JV4Qr3IeYdA6ePcR2IoeOVHI88TeL61zGvhAA/s1600/IMG_20141121_172430771.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I also spray painted the lamps and added some new lamp shades. The round mirror sitting behind the two red chairs is really pretty. It will go up on the wall right there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCg348SPrO29axb8zF7QANVcYjSUoyW-EAEkhEqzgqjmJc3KelYE1HtgkLdc0CWpeLqW_J7H9iqkrZCXWPYNmrB-_K0FA9LZ1SINFoLXUF6H0jQWMZLoHBpGdhix9ok7bMBGBxPg/s1600/IMG_20141121_172452551_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCg348SPrO29axb8zF7QANVcYjSUoyW-EAEkhEqzgqjmJc3KelYE1HtgkLdc0CWpeLqW_J7H9iqkrZCXWPYNmrB-_K0FA9LZ1SINFoLXUF6H0jQWMZLoHBpGdhix9ok7bMBGBxPg/s1600/IMG_20141121_172452551_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The bathroom got some minor tweaks. The wall color is Behr Aqua Smoke, and the art on the floor is just waiting to be hung by someone who can successfully drill into concrete. We're also waiting on some gorgeous track lighting to be hung. Hopefully I'll get some decent (not nighttime) photos once it's all done.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgn1ObAcOPbPk_gO9cxYHuTHdSTziNXJ-sM-6N1huDJVwPzmGFSKvs6aWAcT2EF-loKH6fQyMFeahFYREirdXfTiDDIQd7xFDioBkOthTzENreVdZLjJ3YoDcBxrACMF1N5kyFcg/s1600/IMG_20141121_172642702_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgn1ObAcOPbPk_gO9cxYHuTHdSTziNXJ-sM-6N1huDJVwPzmGFSKvs6aWAcT2EF-loKH6fQyMFeahFYREirdXfTiDDIQd7xFDioBkOthTzENreVdZLjJ3YoDcBxrACMF1N5kyFcg/s1600/IMG_20141121_172642702_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
So that's been life this month! I'm grateful to have had so many good things to do and be a part of. And now hosting Thanksgiving is going to feel like a vacation! :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-15291160092683072872014-10-28T15:28:00.000-05:002014-10-28T16:35:21.224-05:00Peter's Sixth Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Peter had a birthday last week, and he's six! It's not all that hard for me to process this birthday, because he's been "almost six" for so long. He's also been ready for kindergarten for for-ev-er. Peter is such a delightful, exuberant kid, and he has a strong desire to do what is right. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9EqmBl9b-9pkR05c9rYK-ebAmQEA1IdR7m-bSmvTg_M-ZxdW_AznbQqNtnEpVOjIciImia8Nn5S9HFLfOidxv2OpE6esQaRWAqdXL8awicM3Jo27Jc2JXJJ1bnDzdfHVxf1czEQ/s1600/croc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9EqmBl9b-9pkR05c9rYK-ebAmQEA1IdR7m-bSmvTg_M-ZxdW_AznbQqNtnEpVOjIciImia8Nn5S9HFLfOidxv2OpE6esQaRWAqdXL8awicM3Jo27Jc2JXJJ1bnDzdfHVxf1czEQ/s1600/croc1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I wasn't too worried about him starting kindergarten this year. I thought he might act out if he ever got bored, but apparently he's one of the very best behaved kids in the class. I hoped to be able to have a little friend party for him (I still might, just late), but I'm not sure who we'd have over. He's the kind of kid that takes a while to warm up to people, and he's just now starting to talk about his new friend Jeff. So we might do something fun with a smaller group. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhY4i3d-oRnSiwZS6QeiUcwGiQU3tnbPKJSrGcWK8P1p6VxJFgQc_X7BFxKJoUCn2VPKtfNRVLYthOEOWifa1x6CRbWgPbrN3RkVFdOFAdHNkbqGoWZ08sJRu6UCw9WvQopECWBQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_143034_225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhY4i3d-oRnSiwZS6QeiUcwGiQU3tnbPKJSrGcWK8P1p6VxJFgQc_X7BFxKJoUCn2VPKtfNRVLYthOEOWifa1x6CRbWgPbrN3RkVFdOFAdHNkbqGoWZ08sJRu6UCw9WvQopECWBQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_143034_225.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Peter is a storyteller with a fantastic imagination. Here, he was telling me all about the rides he'd just been on with Dad at Disney World. Obviously, it required a big demonstration!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3v-TtQFE3n9A05fxKzP330N4IdxVGwqz7I-pK7tnnE_C19DiA0BSfUnMjzgntOSsXmGcABUFjl3Uobrpn6mneBRtiTD-84i96FwnThIEauQlmZV7ISOwuZFEa_kEF1_IH4FHcdA/s1600/IMG_20141017_172240510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3v-TtQFE3n9A05fxKzP330N4IdxVGwqz7I-pK7tnnE_C19DiA0BSfUnMjzgntOSsXmGcABUFjl3Uobrpn6mneBRtiTD-84i96FwnThIEauQlmZV7ISOwuZFEa_kEF1_IH4FHcdA/s1600/IMG_20141017_172240510.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
He is always making forts or other giant messes. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeapteYNagO7fnf0p3mzEody3m9047u4gch3rhlk-q09JdU2fPpb36T_QLirOK_gPIoUs_Gw2cq8H9bdw06RnVPzDbCymtiKWiILOehPbph7AOn4pj_WrTwJGoIqo08-H0d8r6A/s1600/IMG_20141019_171257933_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeapteYNagO7fnf0p3mzEody3m9047u4gch3rhlk-q09JdU2fPpb36T_QLirOK_gPIoUs_Gw2cq8H9bdw06RnVPzDbCymtiKWiILOehPbph7AOn4pj_WrTwJGoIqo08-H0d8r6A/s1600/IMG_20141019_171257933_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I found a snow cone machine at Target a few weeks ago exactly like the one I had growing up. I decided to get it for Peter's birthday, and he seemed to like it. He is the most set about what he's going to be when he grows up out of all my kids. The others will change their minds frequently, but he's consistently said (for well over a year now) that he wants to be a chef. Whenever we go out to eat, he is analyzing their process and atmosphere and food and thinking about what his is going to be like. He also loves making food with me in the kitchen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qkj_hbFQM5IZJzDE3cSZadoqW6f6kP_u5S_q0UquSALtfPs9391itryrvaAnlqiYp_mPudi-sIWh6_AJp0yRNjngmuqMC9KVyzhlk2SAphdoo2VF0W5rw652GudEhuYbjoTycA/s1600/IMG_20141020_072049905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qkj_hbFQM5IZJzDE3cSZadoqW6f6kP_u5S_q0UquSALtfPs9391itryrvaAnlqiYp_mPudi-sIWh6_AJp0yRNjngmuqMC9KVyzhlk2SAphdoo2VF0W5rw652GudEhuYbjoTycA/s1600/IMG_20141020_072049905.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
I also got him a canister full of two-piece Legos from the Lego Store at a nearby mall. Nora helped me pack them in, and I think we really got our money's worth! ;) These are probably the most versatile pieces, and so great for a creative kid.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbP7AzY02Z1g78OX4CRoEB6Wlb0iyUCV-ZALMQ069VqnsTbnvFqBRpguq8o2WHoY8-VRIeElv0qn4PmCUNT2w8G4xEK_1wCP0-er-Uxfyk2w9Jrqv43QznHazOJeQ1PfXkehOzw/s1600/IMG_20141020_180403744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbP7AzY02Z1g78OX4CRoEB6Wlb0iyUCV-ZALMQ069VqnsTbnvFqBRpguq8o2WHoY8-VRIeElv0qn4PmCUNT2w8G4xEK_1wCP0-er-Uxfyk2w9Jrqv43QznHazOJeQ1PfXkehOzw/s1600/IMG_20141020_180403744.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
When the guy at the Lego store found out it was for my son's birthday, he gave us a free pack of "birthday cake" Legos. Peter built that one right away!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9u9i-bXIiUU-MyeapOjlCdVetORgZuDF3HVLanv9X56SNtvJv3nxSzdiTQm3JQ34EZreRJ0-iVi2w584yytCHzsc9ppt3_37lhIJGa0cQTovvagZScjRdx_Wx7xDd3d29kcIdyQ/s1600/IMG_20141020_155515913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9u9i-bXIiUU-MyeapOjlCdVetORgZuDF3HVLanv9X56SNtvJv3nxSzdiTQm3JQ34EZreRJ0-iVi2w584yytCHzsc9ppt3_37lhIJGa0cQTovvagZScjRdx_Wx7xDd3d29kcIdyQ/s1600/IMG_20141020_155515913.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Peter wanted a cake with a green and yellow striped snake. He even drew me a picture of what he wanted. After some thought on how to approach this challenge, I found a recipe for marshmallow fondant (which, as it turns out is pretty good!) and made his dreams come true. (Glad I could do that once this year! I'm thinking back to Nora's <a href="http://greenbluebirds.blogspot.com/2014/07/my-nora-is-four.html?m=0">sad ice cream cake</a> the day after we got back from our trip, and Benjamin's cupcake "8" we had the week before our move. And I don't even have any pictures of that one.) It was way more simple than I thought it would be, so it might just inspire future creations...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-YOT0vcUASaLAv7HK6avlqTGRxT20_QZ-MlDwaMcAKi4B3q4E-HnviSCgI00IuD5L8vnJ1yEZ6mJscvLi_pRvGBfTBToTbUO99pKkcRRYz6F4TZLuCWwFgtXcbnvSSWfDte_sMA/s1600/IMG_20141020_161241188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-YOT0vcUASaLAv7HK6avlqTGRxT20_QZ-MlDwaMcAKi4B3q4E-HnviSCgI00IuD5L8vnJ1yEZ6mJscvLi_pRvGBfTBToTbUO99pKkcRRYz6F4TZLuCWwFgtXcbnvSSWfDte_sMA/s1600/IMG_20141020_161241188.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Peter requested spaghetti and meatballs, a spinach and cucumber salad, and Orangina for his birthday dinner. He's easy to please!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyGfhxgfXtG2OKGHBkIXvHJe8CCd8DtbmkPB6u4jNfwcWepcnIMUSCgO2pNFYAZrJ_RIJv8fXaT6P-EY2hk4omw0uU81HohKQhei_vawNevr5R-czy_1j2X_fLRfptO-NxuH6BA/s1600/IMG_20141020_181057434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyGfhxgfXtG2OKGHBkIXvHJe8CCd8DtbmkPB6u4jNfwcWepcnIMUSCgO2pNFYAZrJ_RIJv8fXaT6P-EY2hk4omw0uU81HohKQhei_vawNevr5R-czy_1j2X_fLRfptO-NxuH6BA/s1600/IMG_20141020_181057434.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
It is a little crazy that he has to use TWO hands now to tell his age. He's a big boy now!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwjuodxre_KE6Zfh82FbK-kWT5Gr53Is8NRCW6Fv13kbKtwxMB39AUMI_WSZYu2q1o6fKu29AOnAoj-Fwus70zTnP8k2mOzFtAn7Mx15M7ZZkskkDJdInu5BlIrgceyW8Ko-BOw/s1600/IMG_20141020_184935416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwjuodxre_KE6Zfh82FbK-kWT5Gr53Is8NRCW6Fv13kbKtwxMB39AUMI_WSZYu2q1o6fKu29AOnAoj-Fwus70zTnP8k2mOzFtAn7Mx15M7ZZkskkDJdInu5BlIrgceyW8Ko-BOw/s1600/IMG_20141020_184935416.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
I had to include his costume that he came up with for Halloween. I told the kids that we were going to try to use what we had, and maybe make a few simple things for our costumes this year. He wanted to be a gnome so he can go around and say "give me a treat or I'll do mischief in your garden." :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgexS3pmL7WUU_EvK8JOchinP4tzen35YmoFBU3Uhs4eAnmBM8tZ4BTni2M4z2UvJyKUXHQJPjjwngS4IOTZZzMxXwHqt84DH5c03hbmWnMx6S295X89YkjsBBmJJE50s1f6jxa9Q/s1600/IMG_20141024_190307929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgexS3pmL7WUU_EvK8JOchinP4tzen35YmoFBU3Uhs4eAnmBM8tZ4BTni2M4z2UvJyKUXHQJPjjwngS4IOTZZzMxXwHqt84DH5c03hbmWnMx6S295X89YkjsBBmJJE50s1f6jxa9Q/s1600/IMG_20141024_190307929.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Probably his favorite present was a new sketchbook and markers (thanks, Grandma!). He's already filled many of the pages with elaborate drawings of bridges...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQalFFbQVFSP6rUMkvs7NQsAGOiKJGfe_S1KYWybEHgOZtVZmih0m2Z0pFy0buaZU1gBvNfnxWknKU5L2Fq9GKwjxnSAJU0c0NElF9WTMYVAV7msM4UQW5DM4dK_du5GN07t6x9Q/s1600/IMG_20141026_141836202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQalFFbQVFSP6rUMkvs7NQsAGOiKJGfe_S1KYWybEHgOZtVZmih0m2Z0pFy0buaZU1gBvNfnxWknKU5L2Fq9GKwjxnSAJU0c0NElF9WTMYVAV7msM4UQW5DM4dK_du5GN07t6x9Q/s1600/IMG_20141026_141836202.jpg" height="139" width="320" /></a></div>
...and castles in the clouds...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69Sdf-rWYkBCx4ub1YrIEr3wDoVEoyNzahGqIT_1tQ_7T0HJA9F42grT54Szs-7bE236hJu8M7iAuPx7ibhR1lTF6ck3v-YhdAFu2Bb86mPLTioRf_ESTjirmMOa4ARU_aX5EEQ/s1600/IMG_20141026_141903724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69Sdf-rWYkBCx4ub1YrIEr3wDoVEoyNzahGqIT_1tQ_7T0HJA9F42grT54Szs-7bE236hJu8M7iAuPx7ibhR1lTF6ck3v-YhdAFu2Bb86mPLTioRf_ESTjirmMOa4ARU_aX5EEQ/s1600/IMG_20141026_141903724.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
...and "mean old" giants.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5a8wcuRUz_zn3jTnO0bvfyP1KZtLvv6Ptwps1F2S3oWBkaV1CRDKx_4QHaQ3LjTEIPz1g0CBYI3nVSeTneM-EP1c4Y95_-LJ2VZRhituckUYneNfu6JHHlEitQBjzlGU6GZSq-Q/s1600/IMG_20141026_141910856_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5a8wcuRUz_zn3jTnO0bvfyP1KZtLvv6Ptwps1F2S3oWBkaV1CRDKx_4QHaQ3LjTEIPz1g0CBYI3nVSeTneM-EP1c4Y95_-LJ2VZRhituckUYneNfu6JHHlEitQBjzlGU6GZSq-Q/s1600/IMG_20141026_141910856_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
We sure love having Peter in our family. It would be pretty boring around here without him!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-21657693024959424212014-10-20T09:56:00.002-05:002014-10-20T09:59:24.013-05:00Our Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHMRe7L1b9B-zXFOIdJ0xmQo0NHnu9qgsuESfFVeW17gO8GpzzyBBFxqQlnSEt_nNLiVuZ7MALgT3UHlJSJPOgsQfy9DYsT6TpSp99V3cZkadmsRMVxf_jRwE_vxgZJfVEWA6LQ/s1600/IMG_20141014_182324921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHMRe7L1b9B-zXFOIdJ0xmQo0NHnu9qgsuESfFVeW17gO8GpzzyBBFxqQlnSEt_nNLiVuZ7MALgT3UHlJSJPOgsQfy9DYsT6TpSp99V3cZkadmsRMVxf_jRwE_vxgZJfVEWA6LQ/s1600/IMG_20141014_182324921.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
We're back, and I'm feeling so much better about everything. It was so nice (and needed!) to just step away from all of my responsibilities for a few days, and just be in the moment. I would not have taken this trip if it weren't for Paul. He had a business trip to Orlando, and suggested that we join him there. The practical planning side of me would have hesitated too long to make it happen, but Paul emailed me the plane ticket confirmations about a month and a half ago as a surprise. I'm so glad he did.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9jxPmXmqO5B24YYi2PQQzIwCkqhJLIEEqpYXsRbRwfVN-1E0yCnqz78uk0m-_sfkdFmq8t_k_pBrMlZyzPPHWR9RN6NYBxE2ISyExmNoY9njQckSXlOPIUZY343bgG4DymwP-w/s1600/IMG_20141015_124838017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9jxPmXmqO5B24YYi2PQQzIwCkqhJLIEEqpYXsRbRwfVN-1E0yCnqz78uk0m-_sfkdFmq8t_k_pBrMlZyzPPHWR9RN6NYBxE2ISyExmNoY9njQckSXlOPIUZY343bgG4DymwP-w/s1600/IMG_20141015_124838017.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
We had a few days on our own while Paul was attending a conference, so I had to decide what to do with our time. I didn't want to spend too much time in the parks on my own, because it would have been a little overwhelming to have four kids of varying ages and interests. So we went to the beach. It was a bit of a hassle making it happen, but I think the kids really enjoyed themselves, and I did too. I think Benjamin was only a few months old the last time I had a real beach day (where you could actually get in the water). I love the ocean, and I miss it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UaqjzRBgY6XdmGLtEnDNQ62ORmCshmOWXxQxJw9nRSksj4t11chWGV698tce5Es9VysxsuTuHiwFM_hysoY0l9Sl68qlC51tS6xhl5zjibtyfhaYpcFc-vZB7xryhb7K3WncqQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_124047028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UaqjzRBgY6XdmGLtEnDNQ62ORmCshmOWXxQxJw9nRSksj4t11chWGV698tce5Es9VysxsuTuHiwFM_hysoY0l9Sl68qlC51tS6xhl5zjibtyfhaYpcFc-vZB7xryhb7K3WncqQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_124047028.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_j2EpWNvqMNV2EBjHg-wb1YFzrDur_ytMFRqNbUAMHpOAqyd_gu_Vcw06WYQ_PPWsPooKgpTjad8Vvub3fMAna3mt0f5AvIkrdqowJGsIMCiuTA6ZlpJpC5PPxWje2k6X0gANnQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_124546610_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_j2EpWNvqMNV2EBjHg-wb1YFzrDur_ytMFRqNbUAMHpOAqyd_gu_Vcw06WYQ_PPWsPooKgpTjad8Vvub3fMAna3mt0f5AvIkrdqowJGsIMCiuTA6ZlpJpC5PPxWje2k6X0gANnQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_124546610_HDR.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
The next day, Paul had a half day, so he joined us at Epcot in the afternoon. I spent the morning with the kids there visiting the countries and doing the rides that we could all go on together. Lydia's naps were non-existent on the trip, so she had her moments. ;) But all in all, it worked really well and we had a great time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDD40XfaIpsAPtQngmBu3HcC156ojzNn50e3-yvelKNNgCZpVGO_0HNOclMLwM4Crv0qRscCLRMicLEryz0Y0m8rVAvDxuXWBkonnK75vSzypv-BFnczOAUlfWy9nNEIZhD6yyzQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_093356_442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDD40XfaIpsAPtQngmBu3HcC156ojzNn50e3-yvelKNNgCZpVGO_0HNOclMLwM4Crv0qRscCLRMicLEryz0Y0m8rVAvDxuXWBkonnK75vSzypv-BFnczOAUlfWy9nNEIZhD6yyzQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_093356_442.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2CTu-dHMFze1RIQd-RMJqQRjD_30k8ZRPu7nvDv28l4ijAZZnTj_mdJNnw83SnW6L4vFd7ab2A_jm3gdHF-33sWq0kkePFQO18IsJmBnYrD-v24p07D9iE1q1plfo5a1Na6lYhw/s1600/IMG_20141017_140506049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2CTu-dHMFze1RIQd-RMJqQRjD_30k8ZRPu7nvDv28l4ijAZZnTj_mdJNnw83SnW6L4vFd7ab2A_jm3gdHF-33sWq0kkePFQO18IsJmBnYrD-v24p07D9iE1q1plfo5a1Na6lYhw/s1600/IMG_20141017_140506049.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
On Friday, Paul had the day off, so we went to Magic Kingdom together. We did smaller rides in the morning, then split up for the rest of the day. I debated all morning if it was worth it to brave the Anna and Elsa line, which fluctuated anywhere between 75 and 120 minutes. That was the one Nora had most wanted a Fast Pass for, but obviously, they weren't available when we started planning our trip last week. (Darn early planners!) We had the perfect window between some of our Fast Passes that allowed time to stand in that line, so I took Lydia and Nora and went for it. It was definitely not the 75 minutes as indicated. We were in line for over two hours, but by the time we realized how long it was going to take, it was too late to turn back. We had come too far! Anyways, the girls were troopers, and it was worth it. When it was our turn to see Elsa, Lydia started cautiously backing away, saying "Cold! Cold! Cold!" She would not go near her. She must understand the movie more than I thought? :) Nora had a nice little chat with Elsa, and a sweet time with Anna as well. Anna told her that she used to wear her hair just like Nora's, and that they were twins because of their red hair. Nora was in heaven.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLfrmtAbIQMtxwp_3LI6htcv5QrlNHBaTaXitmlRjFN4Qe7cWDRHxD-MQ9qWY6f2vpZ33sf3eUJnSat2XA_Ldzhbp8By27w8llOekxQ003vQcgpJ64JSsl4P9x5Te0Zf5b_IYj4w/s1600/IMG_20141014_200122042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLfrmtAbIQMtxwp_3LI6htcv5QrlNHBaTaXitmlRjFN4Qe7cWDRHxD-MQ9qWY6f2vpZ33sf3eUJnSat2XA_Ldzhbp8By27w8llOekxQ003vQcgpJ64JSsl4P9x5Te0Zf5b_IYj4w/s1600/IMG_20141014_200122042.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lydia was obsessed with these purse things. Everywhere she spotted them, she would gather stacks of them on each arm.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh174b_Uiqx11BJUZgduK7eAT0jjAdWqWz3XgV_7rFPj9JYOVUvAg0JIKjjbj9O2Lp_F9m6o5VSerT-LQAtBYanrhp_EkxrivacZagHMHtvT019x8qqPUx0Gkby_CBQybfvN9aQ-Q/s1600/IMG_20141017_113210_019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh174b_Uiqx11BJUZgduK7eAT0jjAdWqWz3XgV_7rFPj9JYOVUvAg0JIKjjbj9O2Lp_F9m6o5VSerT-LQAtBYanrhp_EkxrivacZagHMHtvT019x8qqPUx0Gkby_CBQybfvN9aQ-Q/s1600/IMG_20141017_113210_019.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think her record was eight! :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LGyDBWwNV2Ym6CiX8mVk2cloler9qGT1VNdPiUt7giEJg30vQpc23ddpq-O8jqikOahvsV1dAAoxrK-T9NHlHUoeroyaEoglX3ZmtJ4YEvXQB7rHmQ0F7FqRJJeH-Bg20pNjwQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_201021262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LGyDBWwNV2Ym6CiX8mVk2cloler9qGT1VNdPiUt7giEJg30vQpc23ddpq-O8jqikOahvsV1dAAoxrK-T9NHlHUoeroyaEoglX3ZmtJ4YEvXQB7rHmQ0F7FqRJJeH-Bg20pNjwQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_201021262.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last day we were there, we got her a Minnie one, and "Minnie" became her newest word she now says.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Benjamin was still recovering from whatever he had the previous week. He was coughing and tired and short of breath for a lot of it, but had a great time regardless. Poor kid. It would have been a lot nicer if he'd been feeling himself!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMiEFkMGO7bx4B-xRWYZyL-pgtZ5WhCBKNRC-RThyphenhyphenVxuz-Q-ok_-HvEiv8MD1GpoDPVmTBYbb6EOmr3vD9UJQ6mkbsy2YiKTlqG3f_PIL1bLq_x6s1j8sZHbeRjamudNFxrHV3FQ/s1600/IMG_20141018_112012357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMiEFkMGO7bx4B-xRWYZyL-pgtZ5WhCBKNRC-RThyphenhyphenVxuz-Q-ok_-HvEiv8MD1GpoDPVmTBYbb6EOmr3vD9UJQ6mkbsy2YiKTlqG3f_PIL1bLq_x6s1j8sZHbeRjamudNFxrHV3FQ/s1600/IMG_20141018_112012357.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We stayed at the Contemporary Resort (for free, because of the conference). It was so nice!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We headed back on Saturday afternoon. It was a nice, quick trip, but filled with so many fun memories. I let the kids each document some of their favorite parts here. I think they about covered it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAKrfMnH3T-yqIV_HCu87ikWIxwr61KZBDIBD6yL1PUaFXNQkpA5DjRN7IToyOqIUygOmKobhFyFxh6Afdzl3KzjiMCIiuZhTpRy_K6Osy_Qt6bFU78pCMwnLWagsA2Y6JCdanQ/s1600/IMG_20141018_161109369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAKrfMnH3T-yqIV_HCu87ikWIxwr61KZBDIBD6yL1PUaFXNQkpA5DjRN7IToyOqIUygOmKobhFyFxh6Afdzl3KzjiMCIiuZhTpRy_K6Osy_Qt6bFU78pCMwnLWagsA2Y6JCdanQ/s1600/IMG_20141018_161109369.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-43425029049999285802014-10-19T20:38:00.001-05:002014-10-19T20:38:00.780-05:00Ben's Side of the Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been looking forward to going to Florida forever. When my Mom and Dad told me we were going to go somewhere fun, I guessed we were going to Florida because we had a chain counting down from 28 days. I started saving money so I could buy something cool. Dad had a business trip to Orlando Florida, where Disney World is, and he said he could bring us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVARDmu8jNFdmX-ZFMDeJo2rgVxrxM6UGYO-yMM73T05aGpF79ZLyPbeIZLnlPpsoBxVvOk3bzDIsxnyJIcUetWQc-jIhx9rclIBeVDiAnagPROa73GNhJALYeSz4CDUqN9oylYg/s1600/IMG_20141014_073935_784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVARDmu8jNFdmX-ZFMDeJo2rgVxrxM6UGYO-yMM73T05aGpF79ZLyPbeIZLnlPpsoBxVvOk3bzDIsxnyJIcUetWQc-jIhx9rclIBeVDiAnagPROa73GNhJALYeSz4CDUqN9oylYg/s1600/IMG_20141014_073935_784.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We're here at last! We found a huge fish in the fish tank in Florida's airport. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGymJbmdeZ8l78fgzhaNSHTFZCtVHhNed9bREqOXZt0bwYfLetjKNilB9tYkU9ClrPjhgBoj8gdnezvtvSyzlBJ14RLtVIcw4-ttuFI2JLRVgZruseorALQVZHTuEZw_phCAPcew/s1600/IMG_20141014_132440560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGymJbmdeZ8l78fgzhaNSHTFZCtVHhNed9bREqOXZt0bwYfLetjKNilB9tYkU9ClrPjhgBoj8gdnezvtvSyzlBJ14RLtVIcw4-ttuFI2JLRVgZruseorALQVZHTuEZw_phCAPcew/s1600/IMG_20141014_132440560.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Magic Bands make it magical time because you don't have to keep track of a card. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqsO4QvQtJL2wTi1KQVv1qdZaxZ3snRLm7VqI_OihIwcPgo7QQ6FfXmasCfOL4C6q2dkKazyRmTa3MVIZZEeb9AUH-t9p-NBZ2I11scvm-ja2pwaBKEC2kbwF1GJ67jkVIvhW-A/s1600/IMG_20141018_103427554_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqsO4QvQtJL2wTi1KQVv1qdZaxZ3snRLm7VqI_OihIwcPgo7QQ6FfXmasCfOL4C6q2dkKazyRmTa3MVIZZEeb9AUH-t9p-NBZ2I11scvm-ja2pwaBKEC2kbwF1GJ67jkVIvhW-A/s1600/IMG_20141018_103427554_HDR.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
We went to Bongo's on our first night. Bongo's was SOOO good!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ljEzylN78wfdIqluS1p5biYw1Qy6OsTMOPQ7vVGOjIPamsuR-X-p7d2phtgopKgbsyAvwpK9ODhwCzU4NSdXjgI0c9dO2fyfA4S8qQxJfDUTyOcLqb_OLHDFLFGE5gzkKB9V4A/s1600/IMG_20141014_193401_075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ljEzylN78wfdIqluS1p5biYw1Qy6OsTMOPQ7vVGOjIPamsuR-X-p7d2phtgopKgbsyAvwpK9ODhwCzU4NSdXjgI0c9dO2fyfA4S8qQxJfDUTyOcLqb_OLHDFLFGE5gzkKB9V4A/s1600/IMG_20141014_193401_075.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Legos can be amazing! Legos can be so many cool things.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBt0GRSmWouSk6YkbSrK5jKSpIzN1JVW6bBtriu4YP-QL0WCv4A7D1OCDtXh0PFszt72QlGfo-KDuuRW-sMefGUFgGP5U702v65fClVG3c5Ub3JTWrXOGCSFHj0yWDAbzqvZ9nvA/s1600/IMG_20141014_194759942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBt0GRSmWouSk6YkbSrK5jKSpIzN1JVW6bBtriu4YP-QL0WCv4A7D1OCDtXh0PFszt72QlGfo-KDuuRW-sMefGUFgGP5U702v65fClVG3c5Ub3JTWrXOGCSFHj0yWDAbzqvZ9nvA/s1600/IMG_20141014_194759942.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had fun at the beach. I got a little sunburn on my face, and Peter got a lot bigger one. I made a cool sandcastle. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9smVXYf6Jfx1Rb71yoU8sbLg4z38x3Df7Ihy5Rwkn9k0SaRgNxFLZ_7odbmrVr-S9MPcTucoq5BnjAG_P156AL7bTmqBPIpMGg7IqwyaKG3EeSho4i24UqJcQoensv6-XONeR4g/s1600/IMG_20141015_141629843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9smVXYf6Jfx1Rb71yoU8sbLg4z38x3Df7Ihy5Rwkn9k0SaRgNxFLZ_7odbmrVr-S9MPcTucoq5BnjAG_P156AL7bTmqBPIpMGg7IqwyaKG3EeSho4i24UqJcQoensv6-XONeR4g/s1600/IMG_20141015_141629843.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Epcot was a blast! We went to a lot of countries.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8K3XYi_pfUdeURywedLcnkc8AOo73jNQCcNq39moP0XqPvILbVV0GgS0DBKMgnNEgudTxXQL3o4LnS3NlphstdX7ZwDA_CgQnHjwW6umwVCMmUka5Lt-bS7F7Q2RdqhmC8jwHGw/s1600/IMG_20141016_111401112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8K3XYi_pfUdeURywedLcnkc8AOo73jNQCcNq39moP0XqPvILbVV0GgS0DBKMgnNEgudTxXQL3o4LnS3NlphstdX7ZwDA_CgQnHjwW6umwVCMmUka5Lt-bS7F7Q2RdqhmC8jwHGw/s1600/IMG_20141016_111401112.jpg" height="187" width="320" /></a></div>
We went to Japan, Canada, Brazil, United Kingdom and France.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHdocLEn-aphsZKnAGzNCaZ-Ratjz4jllW5OxGJ7UztLeSDnTmnN6q526gSGT8bIkB-O3bNO6l8yUz1RFu1LPmiHiJBt1jkKvB-4wf9UyoI5kiDmI_cU1IG2stxmAOAbknuWOeg/s1600/IMG_20141016_122817475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHdocLEn-aphsZKnAGzNCaZ-Ratjz4jllW5OxGJ7UztLeSDnTmnN6q526gSGT8bIkB-O3bNO6l8yUz1RFu1LPmiHiJBt1jkKvB-4wf9UyoI5kiDmI_cU1IG2stxmAOAbknuWOeg/s1600/IMG_20141016_122817475.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hope the blue cutting team wins!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguxgJfKiO7kG7jajFd9FzLTpAOgamSKENDwneIbpdWMczwoM1X9tvWgFSGyrLOd2Wxh-Gz1oXzIfY9zDJrynPiFw8BWvFGwpuAdSZZ9d6rnZJNTpkr1TWFYYzHsprepQulwyxiQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_113415069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguxgJfKiO7kG7jajFd9FzLTpAOgamSKENDwneIbpdWMczwoM1X9tvWgFSGyrLOd2Wxh-Gz1oXzIfY9zDJrynPiFw8BWvFGwpuAdSZZ9d6rnZJNTpkr1TWFYYzHsprepQulwyxiQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_113415069.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
I still can't find what I want!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiak17B2P0Z9CfxQCn3o-5j6IrFanpqP9cSEnCHkP643zzSfjzD3eaxT_tejFQOGdIMHdknnxtnJnWWA0WjjrU9NYnH-KoiHQIwAOB8C0ToIY8EJ8U_koMYRXj6STmn-AJk6Rv8ng/s1600/IMG_20141016_145252032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiak17B2P0Z9CfxQCn3o-5j6IrFanpqP9cSEnCHkP643zzSfjzD3eaxT_tejFQOGdIMHdknnxtnJnWWA0WjjrU9NYnH-KoiHQIwAOB8C0ToIY8EJ8U_koMYRXj6STmn-AJk6Rv8ng/s1600/IMG_20141016_145252032.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Test Track is so fast! My car was pretty good. It won second place.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dtMJ1pdOEH4-Xu836sItyO9PK9KmJb3fygUfoCU6r-wewdUEffEzSrT8cktlQsCtLRiRrrv1UULAMSZj_TKpIHgAOZ42Jhl0SfHUAF02oX1aRZpTwwsEH3inYUvt2UvLNm_gYA/s1600/IMG_20141016_154207721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dtMJ1pdOEH4-Xu836sItyO9PK9KmJb3fygUfoCU6r-wewdUEffEzSrT8cktlQsCtLRiRrrv1UULAMSZj_TKpIHgAOZ42Jhl0SfHUAF02oX1aRZpTwwsEH3inYUvt2UvLNm_gYA/s1600/IMG_20141016_154207721.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First time we ate at the Cafe, I got a cupcake!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj7VY0KjdKSnFCay3BKerZkaPavPl-TvxNKcsg9wml-58flLg9JwlVzHPlgEaWE6BBixkP2_jMhAKZ83J6PCTEgvH1nVIAt5Pr17n55QIj8b4AfBxL0w5SExwq7Wd-Koz6UbgbSw/s1600/IMG_20141015_202456_787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj7VY0KjdKSnFCay3BKerZkaPavPl-TvxNKcsg9wml-58flLg9JwlVzHPlgEaWE6BBixkP2_jMhAKZ83J6PCTEgvH1nVIAt5Pr17n55QIj8b4AfBxL0w5SExwq7Wd-Koz6UbgbSw/s1600/IMG_20141015_202456_787.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
The dolls are going to kill me! I'm reading Kingdom Keepers, and "It's a Small World" is a really creepy ride in the book.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YKo6IpNU4Og7Zt2qxK-rV_g6BBrws-FJc0MrltkjIy3d-kITtj7Gi28ggwCqp9z42Fq819k1oKQHqZJ6gZiomT7C8I5NDSqL6JkKE4Uk0OZqXCnNPUoF3Qyx_yR_9o10NOWQ9Q/s1600/IMG_20141017_103218_803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YKo6IpNU4Og7Zt2qxK-rV_g6BBrws-FJc0MrltkjIy3d-kITtj7Gi28ggwCqp9z42Fq819k1oKQHqZJ6gZiomT7C8I5NDSqL6JkKE4Uk0OZqXCnNPUoF3Qyx_yR_9o10NOWQ9Q/s1600/IMG_20141017_103218_803.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Front row seat in Splash Mountain! So we got wet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDBJUTjOr0MH-IJCrp_-vy4umkbHMH0ujJwA-MS4nC4ZgO-K_BuFy6TrpbgkUkiD66LCIgSEkqrirqpXq7pvmwjWI6e-SMCdRC4k6ACcEJ9dnCE8we0aEIHNWjgZjlOo3qT61ykQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_133828_391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDBJUTjOr0MH-IJCrp_-vy4umkbHMH0ujJwA-MS4nC4ZgO-K_BuFy6TrpbgkUkiD66LCIgSEkqrirqpXq7pvmwjWI6e-SMCdRC4k6ACcEJ9dnCE8we0aEIHNWjgZjlOo3qT61ykQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_133828_391.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
Tigger was my favorite character to meet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibW-HGiRqnBGPdbj9ZbeNXCEEOEADjx0kaIFWuGs6i2tmLCBwH2i3x6ghSKK_s_tqj6mOKVnRd4Urcd1yenIvCTrDV-h572cByv4T5FJ_6LlV2-PjF90knwhYs6s7a0uwXQfCgJQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_183756_578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibW-HGiRqnBGPdbj9ZbeNXCEEOEADjx0kaIFWuGs6i2tmLCBwH2i3x6ghSKK_s_tqj6mOKVnRd4Urcd1yenIvCTrDV-h572cByv4T5FJ_6LlV2-PjF90knwhYs6s7a0uwXQfCgJQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_183756_578.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Waffles are good at breakfast. And French toast with syrup.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpMF8CaUlL08hgxkryk-gSdGJ-uonaAfqzKUZenVWEvYymi2cuiCtlZNSGFDx7D1jcC0C9Q8Ht-slWeX_tRJhQdLEpSYMveP42vLIYTj4Ypu9_yYrckhaPacKoOSs4JCdQkqg_g/s1600/IMG_20141016_091407344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpMF8CaUlL08hgxkryk-gSdGJ-uonaAfqzKUZenVWEvYymi2cuiCtlZNSGFDx7D1jcC0C9Q8Ht-slWeX_tRJhQdLEpSYMveP42vLIYTj4Ypu9_yYrckhaPacKoOSs4JCdQkqg_g/s1600/IMG_20141016_091407344.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
My favorite part was the Magic Kingdom. I bought a red light saber and a Duffy (the Epcot Bear) pillow pet at Downtown Disney with my Dad. Our trip was fun.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-81037644418733983792014-10-19T15:56:00.000-05:002014-10-19T15:56:02.531-05:00Nora's Disney World StoryWe were driving on the buses, and then we were flying.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvGICDHOSOXX_-5tTa7T0NJveL6NdqvIfpnApQzA65l_Z2Do07YJAknxAKtQe3iAJhPgqlqF5XLX3u_A2UhoeT8LtpJkhOyEPhfhXKEjVRIBwKSBPLwhvgL5uhm4J03WXbM0COA/s1600/IMG_20141014_073935_784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvGICDHOSOXX_-5tTa7T0NJveL6NdqvIfpnApQzA65l_Z2Do07YJAknxAKtQe3iAJhPgqlqF5XLX3u_A2UhoeT8LtpJkhOyEPhfhXKEjVRIBwKSBPLwhvgL5uhm4J03WXbM0COA/s1600/IMG_20141014_073935_784.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
When the airplane was getting everyone off, we waited.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPmfKPPbZL28ZSzthbxBBmeoMeIU1Okgnp-qMJBwfpKgXqt-_OGx1Wzn47MzQ484-hJ2CBhvi218GbMBZcklC8QI4n19iRaHRPxyKe4dNDYvyPJAU71fBsX_KVxWg_yriBJ2ZwAQ/s1600/IMG_20141014_084401_723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPmfKPPbZL28ZSzthbxBBmeoMeIU1Okgnp-qMJBwfpKgXqt-_OGx1Wzn47MzQ484-hJ2CBhvi218GbMBZcklC8QI4n19iRaHRPxyKe4dNDYvyPJAU71fBsX_KVxWg_yriBJ2ZwAQ/s1600/IMG_20141014_084401_723.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I loved meeting Cinderella<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqc6UrkQc6KgglKO5qif9KEu52WIzbCSxWfB6_-DQIlqsWZO3OVweYFVWmJ_h0pd-gvf-I2dyIc-wv_2oCZ6YPIJdb7TeJC9okVFFZ8EMhSOsFqLmBMi2kKnjOOvyfGcriVjTJw/s1600/IMG_20141017_153337218_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqc6UrkQc6KgglKO5qif9KEu52WIzbCSxWfB6_-DQIlqsWZO3OVweYFVWmJ_h0pd-gvf-I2dyIc-wv_2oCZ6YPIJdb7TeJC9okVFFZ8EMhSOsFqLmBMi2kKnjOOvyfGcriVjTJw/s1600/IMG_20141017_153337218_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
and Rapunzel<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRZ0x55rjo880T-XVv-JWSBfaDt2WZwjE3m-gP6ITamJyvlvn7Msz1mv6OncTDqGE5OgKno-z_p0YZ_cXR1MKTc-Lvnr5YZEs3ShE1fEucRKozrEmn0PfsQQKdSHW56RRvobz3EA/s1600/IMG_20141017_153211171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRZ0x55rjo880T-XVv-JWSBfaDt2WZwjE3m-gP6ITamJyvlvn7Msz1mv6OncTDqGE5OgKno-z_p0YZ_cXR1MKTc-Lvnr5YZEs3ShE1fEucRKozrEmn0PfsQQKdSHW56RRvobz3EA/s1600/IMG_20141017_153211171.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
and Tinkerbelle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUry8f8nWE0d0nlzIRYqvxGVLphhzc4oYbGXCwEK7Q38snR0Jd6_tRBmCQc-BbWH0VQrqAc17OCqlgrwpL9IpT1cMmSaMaXQd2SUu81VUKd7o56P_zCNL5QGy2UtedwygW4w2tw/s1600/IMG_20141017_170908315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUry8f8nWE0d0nlzIRYqvxGVLphhzc4oYbGXCwEK7Q38snR0Jd6_tRBmCQc-BbWH0VQrqAc17OCqlgrwpL9IpT1cMmSaMaXQd2SUu81VUKd7o56P_zCNL5QGy2UtedwygW4w2tw/s1600/IMG_20141017_170908315.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
And I loved going on the Magic Carpet ride.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HDO37un5CpnU1PAjbhk51hMJG1JL0iKJul8tyjPusc-SHaJdDmy17UZXZSr9sEKg1Bc2dZwZIHCm4_nODCqNsrORgugJab2Ycb0MuTecAwvLqUoTzRJOzAX3yETqV6m64KzckA/s1600/IMG_20141017_185834927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HDO37un5CpnU1PAjbhk51hMJG1JL0iKJul8tyjPusc-SHaJdDmy17UZXZSr9sEKg1Bc2dZwZIHCm4_nODCqNsrORgugJab2Ycb0MuTecAwvLqUoTzRJOzAX3yETqV6m64KzckA/s1600/IMG_20141017_185834927.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
And Dumbo.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgisCLjr2ynN88ZfEGobDahVJsWOW39fbTTsY0Tn9Ay2CoqRbffcSA2aj-ppnXTuuNifobsZKMgv4iVQaONmsR92jJEbd-0UeQfNdH4k903NLiuVaXWKajgU6TaiYjDDniy-4CJYA/s1600/IMG_20141017_155836224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgisCLjr2ynN88ZfEGobDahVJsWOW39fbTTsY0Tn9Ay2CoqRbffcSA2aj-ppnXTuuNifobsZKMgv4iVQaONmsR92jJEbd-0UeQfNdH4k903NLiuVaXWKajgU6TaiYjDDniy-4CJYA/s1600/IMG_20141017_155836224.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
We went on the Teacups<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqvL0FYnYbiN2UnOEUmFCNxVD1RtbAqR9PGTQ0udsuALmQ4vd5deixj5XCljKCza3HpDawI5evnISWzWOQDcvEDYgI6wQE4924NFerrJfum146gmwImswHFTCwgLBWFdpwr-MUg/s1600/IMG_20141017_095134_167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqvL0FYnYbiN2UnOEUmFCNxVD1RtbAqR9PGTQ0udsuALmQ4vd5deixj5XCljKCza3HpDawI5evnISWzWOQDcvEDYgI6wQE4924NFerrJfum146gmwImswHFTCwgLBWFdpwr-MUg/s1600/IMG_20141017_095134_167.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
and the Carousel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiip6wg4n-OjjiMXilME49_anA3N8YEOhl8IylvUZaj8KvH4af8_SMconAhBfxXIt1-R8xOboB8TlOn_K9muFiKUJS8JWNujOU3ztwS_s4RpqJ4vDfo0YzbiNVeI76MvIDxcTphgg/s1600/IMG_20141017_105651015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiip6wg4n-OjjiMXilME49_anA3N8YEOhl8IylvUZaj8KvH4af8_SMconAhBfxXIt1-R8xOboB8TlOn_K9muFiKUJS8JWNujOU3ztwS_s4RpqJ4vDfo0YzbiNVeI76MvIDxcTphgg/s1600/IMG_20141017_105651015.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
We went to "It's a Small World." You go on a boat. That's the most funnest part, and you meet little things.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uYhnXFe-NGzZuHEWSsgbrEmCqeEHonigtvxsJ_njBKkuUae9O8L4OpTp592LpFzjRNrjHSeCkPiVqJnW9FIO4QbBArU9n2qIZyp23RX6p2Z8FQJmfrEpQr8IsH2Y8q0jMOYIyA/s1600/IMG_20141017_104124194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uYhnXFe-NGzZuHEWSsgbrEmCqeEHonigtvxsJ_njBKkuUae9O8L4OpTp592LpFzjRNrjHSeCkPiVqJnW9FIO4QbBArU9n2qIZyp23RX6p2Z8FQJmfrEpQr8IsH2Y8q0jMOYIyA/s1600/IMG_20141017_104124194.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
And I loved meeting Anna and Elsa.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY57jZSGwXiI4J_-ZZuTzC689fiXJNaj-k15wxHo3RToa0oBDnpONwTIuF5xHAIecVQlOZsGMebgH1Cg0SlPnEYqE-Naz07A7wz31DZR5gCGMctoAE9ieh6WoOnlmv-l-9_6O7gA/s1600/IMG_20141017_152535104_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY57jZSGwXiI4J_-ZZuTzC689fiXJNaj-k15wxHo3RToa0oBDnpONwTIuF5xHAIecVQlOZsGMebgH1Cg0SlPnEYqE-Naz07A7wz31DZR5gCGMctoAE9ieh6WoOnlmv-l-9_6O7gA/s1600/IMG_20141017_152535104_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
And I didn't like the LOOONG line.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVn9z1t7Af3tOe6cWXkSZf01vSnZQWLZGPXbtx6BssMXJDZTTf33pi7grwP2L6b1sZkNarzjOCnc_UIgdUHvN7X3WwAcH9Nx2rVWHLL3qD-uvGZcxAQTdc5FYiz4QS8Tf4SScsw/s1600/IMG_20141017_152418403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVn9z1t7Af3tOe6cWXkSZf01vSnZQWLZGPXbtx6BssMXJDZTTf33pi7grwP2L6b1sZkNarzjOCnc_UIgdUHvN7X3WwAcH9Nx2rVWHLL3qD-uvGZcxAQTdc5FYiz4QS8Tf4SScsw/s1600/IMG_20141017_152418403.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
We went on Little Mermaid when Lydia was asleep. We went in the Haunted Mansion, but I didn't like it. I loved the Peter Pan ride.<br />
We saw sharks at Nemo! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbcAx6hnMZXrjfP9p40_Ut91LLt8Hm9Xd3rZy0ibnnoJJiZxwUBXnpmnu_kfIyI6E-DLRf5TtfIThoezID3MNtQ4wjHJ4WpLEot_lXLaBb2xobKzrEhIOFtIjg-CVtNPcYgjUiw/s1600/IMG_20141016_143415752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsbcAx6hnMZXrjfP9p40_Ut91LLt8Hm9Xd3rZy0ibnnoJJiZxwUBXnpmnu_kfIyI6E-DLRf5TtfIThoezID3MNtQ4wjHJ4WpLEot_lXLaBb2xobKzrEhIOFtIjg-CVtNPcYgjUiw/s1600/IMG_20141016_143415752.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And manatees.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ2paQIaLp9lI4bBNu2QbGWdVSvfUTeX3DgkMAvJuX92UQFAG29qg9P1ZhPG2kiyclbdiDryMjiMi27deh6Kdp5-VQoaiqZDR7ZJ-0cCHo3v88YiJmowN50mfQR940rPyo0RI4bA/s1600/IMG_20141016_134751175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ2paQIaLp9lI4bBNu2QbGWdVSvfUTeX3DgkMAvJuX92UQFAG29qg9P1ZhPG2kiyclbdiDryMjiMi27deh6Kdp5-VQoaiqZDR7ZJ-0cCHo3v88YiJmowN50mfQR940rPyo0RI4bA/s1600/IMG_20141016_134751175.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
We bought a Merida bow and arrow.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWQzHlGKKoFkgRXKsV131jKoyGM18dEXEQ_0GT8TyRqtfBogd_e370Jqt1rey18llrRv_ANy7DN-3rPUAZzBQ_GeoodRr9smwVc7k7K6GZaDQKzDcLuAJVt_uyU57VmjKiU7JOA/s1600/IMG_20141017_201456251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWQzHlGKKoFkgRXKsV131jKoyGM18dEXEQ_0GT8TyRqtfBogd_e370Jqt1rey18llrRv_ANy7DN-3rPUAZzBQ_GeoodRr9smwVc7k7K6GZaDQKzDcLuAJVt_uyU57VmjKiU7JOA/s1600/IMG_20141017_201456251.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
I met Merida, and I loved drawing my Merida picture.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg52AYjkBcDAyfdwGqMeegsGZGsJEa9e4DVfwmyUR5yry8EemMR1czzGqFxJURtxK-XgmwC_xkNKfncLwqfQj7R35F8SGp2Gp5btzZntv44BPoJge3otM_6qjSnB_ccVpGW_7J-bw/s1600/IMG_20141017_164932729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg52AYjkBcDAyfdwGqMeegsGZGsJEa9e4DVfwmyUR5yry8EemMR1czzGqFxJURtxK-XgmwC_xkNKfncLwqfQj7R35F8SGp2Gp5btzZntv44BPoJge3otM_6qjSnB_ccVpGW_7J-bw/s1600/IMG_20141017_164932729.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
And I loved meeting Alice<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcc8SWyuNW4CE7wobHDLA3-ozwGPRLQk_lEi7kpwoeetsQ0q5GI-0AjbroSU6SHr0n2kxlY5yCX_Sy3c9hiMbcmfyAurJNVcRknDP8DZtrMd8GWc0bIV3Mha97CZKHuJv45q0lfw/s1600/IMG_20141016_120000608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcc8SWyuNW4CE7wobHDLA3-ozwGPRLQk_lEi7kpwoeetsQ0q5GI-0AjbroSU6SHr0n2kxlY5yCX_Sy3c9hiMbcmfyAurJNVcRknDP8DZtrMd8GWc0bIV3Mha97CZKHuJv45q0lfw/s1600/IMG_20141016_120000608.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
and Mary Poppins<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvbEBe5nXLYob2aSfmeb2Rfdyi1GLa_s9AMZaXtDRhqdy-EveZX6VgGeas1nJLW_rbzDU-x2zs29uGfz_3Ml7pEVyHVAWirEFJNSx-Hkb26gM1vF_MMEiKIGim8On5_EupKnKIw/s1600/IMG_20141016_120719446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvbEBe5nXLYob2aSfmeb2Rfdyi1GLa_s9AMZaXtDRhqdy-EveZX6VgGeas1nJLW_rbzDU-x2zs29uGfz_3Ml7pEVyHVAWirEFJNSx-Hkb26gM1vF_MMEiKIGim8On5_EupKnKIw/s1600/IMG_20141016_120719446.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
and Winnie the Pooh<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ydH1yY2H0orT8LEYupJ49w5U_4JdX4N15nwVFX-K056sqlvYk3HP-asYvHdTiG1BXEKFessNv8B6vFwendvnG22F06mKdsTuJKG4vDhu0joHKHxrT4thVvRj405AB3fzt8Ns7A/s1600/IMG_20141017_174332082_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ydH1yY2H0orT8LEYupJ49w5U_4JdX4N15nwVFX-K056sqlvYk3HP-asYvHdTiG1BXEKFessNv8B6vFwendvnG22F06mKdsTuJKG4vDhu0joHKHxrT4thVvRj405AB3fzt8Ns7A/s1600/IMG_20141017_174332082_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
and Tigger<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnmyXloIavF240u9Z6S_yfMFz5adNPVfkKOWIafGGUYPg4JRa6g3Pe9fMXOlK5VEjE5tYIYh4sCBr0YF7kRsHK2cD9_RzYG6zPiEY1-ku54KgzfmiwrWnRMO1NLvVsP8NGvgvBOw/s1600/IMG_20141017_183801838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnmyXloIavF240u9Z6S_yfMFz5adNPVfkKOWIafGGUYPg4JRa6g3Pe9fMXOlK5VEjE5tYIYh4sCBr0YF7kRsHK2cD9_RzYG6zPiEY1-ku54KgzfmiwrWnRMO1NLvVsP8NGvgvBOw/s1600/IMG_20141017_183801838.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
and Piglet<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLwRIICmKYasI7dPJU_dzrkYzQMoXGC47SNi6ruLC03R6U-ZSoxoSNVGlGQdu2-DqzAfFM2-cQ4kf2GqRKQWzaxD6q_kwKALfSe1tlk7vGJ2Tlez2gLu8iwQ-oyA4YoX32-3Htw/s1600/IMG_20141017_180922929_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLwRIICmKYasI7dPJU_dzrkYzQMoXGC47SNi6ruLC03R6U-ZSoxoSNVGlGQdu2-DqzAfFM2-cQ4kf2GqRKQWzaxD6q_kwKALfSe1tlk7vGJ2Tlez2gLu8iwQ-oyA4YoX32-3Htw/s1600/IMG_20141017_180922929_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
and Eyeore. I loved meeting them, but they couldn't talk. We marched around in a parade with them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixCSYGXO-D1R-46X7fr7V04hshKBA8AZYlv9ROQMtRjGwNlfncy8FAazc4yK5hilmLvoXd_0wTBHdRIh93YNTOWNa13Vr2PhjpmxP-J-OJ_bTpkcTxeV9nZ9pX9tkghyphenhyphen9t53GnWw/s1600/IMG_20141017_174642550_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixCSYGXO-D1R-46X7fr7V04hshKBA8AZYlv9ROQMtRjGwNlfncy8FAazc4yK5hilmLvoXd_0wTBHdRIh93YNTOWNa13Vr2PhjpmxP-J-OJ_bTpkcTxeV9nZ9pX9tkghyphenhyphen9t53GnWw/s1600/IMG_20141017_174642550_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
We didn't go on Winnie the Pooh ride. It broke.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDPVsEeoSLrj9QrkJTiJ5GEOblPGSnGRaMsnYW10J63VdplyGzLKGPYdUEftVoydB0qneNQldSM3SgHEzVtSV-d38Cpfyt9qYPXAy907U48XsLUB0I0JSJ1CboN2-RnZx2ZVHLA/s1600/IMG_20141017_100835_462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDPVsEeoSLrj9QrkJTiJ5GEOblPGSnGRaMsnYW10J63VdplyGzLKGPYdUEftVoydB0qneNQldSM3SgHEzVtSV-d38Cpfyt9qYPXAy907U48XsLUB0I0JSJ1CboN2-RnZx2ZVHLA/s1600/IMG_20141017_100835_462.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I met Mickey Mouse<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3liBq22FkypHzvVDJPkxEHifVGDyvzl8jC2bBCHznD5VQvSjQ0FcR5cF7AvoRJx5B3VFF0sSG3nb8hJpnDE0fSj4dKywJQNqtVAnhscwHUevYuo3NXrYMsyltmuINHSqyJg0NTQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_160935781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3liBq22FkypHzvVDJPkxEHifVGDyvzl8jC2bBCHznD5VQvSjQ0FcR5cF7AvoRJx5B3VFF0sSG3nb8hJpnDE0fSj4dKywJQNqtVAnhscwHUevYuo3NXrYMsyltmuINHSqyJg0NTQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_160935781.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
and Goofy<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlLPk34yPdyqil2P9LIdtSyEgpADkZxCYEk9WJ4Ga5GmQf5wuRFh4JulYXsXRuY2xep0pG4Uf_aXjtQLo0n6-B7QUryzbQdbxqirtBTxm8mR_8XlBiuSiM4hSCj2YwJ0rNqnNNA/s1600/IMG_20141016_161150448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlLPk34yPdyqil2P9LIdtSyEgpADkZxCYEk9WJ4Ga5GmQf5wuRFh4JulYXsXRuY2xep0pG4Uf_aXjtQLo0n6-B7QUryzbQdbxqirtBTxm8mR_8XlBiuSiM4hSCj2YwJ0rNqnNNA/s1600/IMG_20141016_161150448.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
and MINNIE!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTawndAyqjfhfn4v6FcFsMRRHXnvmCCeQ-eWzIV5U3yKfDGk5QIgscJz3iWsThupNFfJ32eUYYXc993VzyBMVV0l1PzWHQrFY39fSIwSsdWb4846VEsgdHb-orxagthQLP1CCYyw/s1600/IMG_20141016_161330923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTawndAyqjfhfn4v6FcFsMRRHXnvmCCeQ-eWzIV5U3yKfDGk5QIgscJz3iWsThupNFfJ32eUYYXc993VzyBMVV0l1PzWHQrFY39fSIwSsdWb4846VEsgdHb-orxagthQLP1CCYyw/s1600/IMG_20141016_161330923.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
We went to different countries. I loved meeting Jasmine.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Ef5y9vJspjF29ZQDuWDPZ6szMnqiploG8dpBD0wn3pJ38tL8jaUNEas1lWMsSrygJhRvXUyNM8tPnYemBy9ZPjrXHbuf36XsYVmD48oUNjkbV5ChPQvEcDLu4ydof8K-puGsgg/s1600/IMG_20141016_125854020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Ef5y9vJspjF29ZQDuWDPZ6szMnqiploG8dpBD0wn3pJ38tL8jaUNEas1lWMsSrygJhRvXUyNM8tPnYemBy9ZPjrXHbuf36XsYVmD48oUNjkbV5ChPQvEcDLu4ydof8K-puGsgg/s1600/IMG_20141016_125854020.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I took my picture.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnikIcvQulJ7vNbGd_L-mQ2meHxJh3yp4v4w9Cl6DzsoDcOxsoxJnuwIqVnNz75G57o0_uXnsQ6E6jDMfRG1jRZZQHO_Gd8FkDDtHhl58OyTlkjl0cBExIkDj9Ch3OySdMrqWcA/s1600/IMG_20141016_125922292_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnikIcvQulJ7vNbGd_L-mQ2meHxJh3yp4v4w9Cl6DzsoDcOxsoxJnuwIqVnNz75G57o0_uXnsQ6E6jDMfRG1jRZZQHO_Gd8FkDDtHhl58OyTlkjl0cBExIkDj9Ch3OySdMrqWcA/s1600/IMG_20141016_125922292_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
It's too bad we didn't go on the Snow White ride. The lines were very long. I loved riding on Soarin'. There was nothing <span style="text-align: center;">to be scared of at Soarin'. </span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">We went to the beach, and that was fun. </span><span style="text-align: center;">I didn't like to go in the waves because Mom went too far. I got salt in my mouth. It was yucky. I didn't like it. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4E5qJi9CGH7tkg9M5RpVtuFfrjrDgMkmllReOeORQOoWA509slmr20z4qm9Sq5Nu4Nnnz-rAO1fuT1Qw3BlRRig6yKajJcEvFm8IrfJWbRoXvOfFmmuRgA2OxoG5XbRv6DJ-sA/s1600/IMG_20141015_131929841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4E5qJi9CGH7tkg9M5RpVtuFfrjrDgMkmllReOeORQOoWA509slmr20z4qm9Sq5Nu4Nnnz-rAO1fuT1Qw3BlRRig6yKajJcEvFm8IrfJWbRoXvOfFmmuRgA2OxoG5XbRv6DJ-sA/s1600/IMG_20141015_131929841.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: center;">I liked making sand castles with sea shells and making me into a mermaid.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyp-7QbrSEbic34wVpC4n4M5MLApJes2Qb2JWixTbhglCq2Lg1zka0XK1i7kgR3xei8KzuBZAsYQ1CiSlw520rvIDFJO0MHgZ6thvxPYfVmf0exj0zwcGPSMJ_ba6c6Rs-hLj8w/s1600/IMG_20141015_133924276_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyp-7QbrSEbic34wVpC4n4M5MLApJes2Qb2JWixTbhglCq2Lg1zka0XK1i7kgR3xei8KzuBZAsYQ1CiSlw520rvIDFJO0MHgZ6thvxPYfVmf0exj0zwcGPSMJ_ba6c6Rs-hLj8w/s1600/IMG_20141015_133924276_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
I loved going in the Monorail. The Monorail was in our hotel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4JtXUm3vAiksvf2UM9NLYKRtZgHaswjuvbGOkVZHO8UNPndr3vObV3dOPpmccevmDuAQ8kXZ41gLZKGqkK0HoBE-t337YOhRgkABQEL8j4Gf6FKdxl7F3LtT0c0w0jYp8o4lwCA/s1600/IMG_20141018_092701035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4JtXUm3vAiksvf2UM9NLYKRtZgHaswjuvbGOkVZHO8UNPndr3vObV3dOPpmccevmDuAQ8kXZ41gLZKGqkK0HoBE-t337YOhRgkABQEL8j4Gf6FKdxl7F3LtT0c0w0jYp8o4lwCA/s1600/IMG_20141018_092701035.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
I got a spiderweb cupcake. And the spider was yummy too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy0R6nZslIMYlNnco6_Oh0BTeiAYeHS_Pklzslgi11NQmpkrq8gaRyBnp5BfuTpRp_Gv8I7ko-XIBSxg2GPYTstFquF68QC4WpAVY_JwLZXnokhWe8KhyphenhyphenCm2DK5ZKJv2FurRxzBg/s1600/IMG_20141015_202520_425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy0R6nZslIMYlNnco6_Oh0BTeiAYeHS_Pklzslgi11NQmpkrq8gaRyBnp5BfuTpRp_Gv8I7ko-XIBSxg2GPYTstFquF68QC4WpAVY_JwLZXnokhWe8KhyphenhyphenCm2DK5ZKJv2FurRxzBg/s1600/IMG_20141015_202520_425.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Florida was really warm and it was not cold one single bit! The princess castle was fun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rymUBcRfMORlJ5ZYeq0vbJJA7fvK_DTmfOfAdM-i3gaYY6eA9E89rVloFyGzhinPiA-7_Su5FFHA7MmgBXVgVamJO6lFARKSF9tmwGo3YLMhn4Yj8UYAnih_v2qH6BumNlJWXg/s1600/IMG_20141017_092824080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rymUBcRfMORlJ5ZYeq0vbJJA7fvK_DTmfOfAdM-i3gaYY6eA9E89rVloFyGzhinPiA-7_Su5FFHA7MmgBXVgVamJO6lFARKSF9tmwGo3YLMhn4Yj8UYAnih_v2qH6BumNlJWXg/s1600/IMG_20141017_092824080.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love Disney World! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-16934140452120260842014-10-19T14:26:00.002-05:002014-10-19T14:26:52.688-05:00Peter's Florida Adventure<div style="text-align: center;">
I went to the airport. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfuoJre7iq_Sge6QRufsDW03IeRHxOGwtndh9DCAZzrYaoC9RUmNr3ww4_1FxkyW44pcIS-ARQYZwH9IOOIoAFz4dGPLyK1INRabyHumdIONmr7qB_v0IkdXValRcoTNo1SZ1hmA/s1600/IMG_20141014_082938861_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfuoJre7iq_Sge6QRufsDW03IeRHxOGwtndh9DCAZzrYaoC9RUmNr3ww4_1FxkyW44pcIS-ARQYZwH9IOOIoAFz4dGPLyK1INRabyHumdIONmr7qB_v0IkdXValRcoTNo1SZ1hmA/s1600/IMG_20141014_082938861_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then we flew to the hotel. It had 15 floors! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8n1ORqJT0HzFevvuF5fTE-uVIz_ukI6DWz41VEVs2tBHEPOi-klYtmlr_Eqv4g2B2Ej4tMggMEq4I0cIG5j8EPFRrgRXB01MpNfmIOxwEJBQPEqhskjCeO52vVV1jxbgRLLUZQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_093409192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8n1ORqJT0HzFevvuF5fTE-uVIz_ukI6DWz41VEVs2tBHEPOi-klYtmlr_Eqv4g2B2Ej4tMggMEq4I0cIG5j8EPFRrgRXB01MpNfmIOxwEJBQPEqhskjCeO52vVV1jxbgRLLUZQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_093409192.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I liked the hotel. It had yummy food. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMOFCcFO82JR-WfLkSoL4mCH0hsBa278-qAfxLakCUR7bTGgLOXb4qZ3eU9ai7U7bZ5Apa0GSeKiNzSju4haKaw1XvHX0KJPgg6jhJoai34xUdZ57hkFaW618HF96xzOU9WQTSw/s1600/IMG_20141016_091357626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMOFCcFO82JR-WfLkSoL4mCH0hsBa278-qAfxLakCUR7bTGgLOXb4qZ3eU9ai7U7bZ5Apa0GSeKiNzSju4haKaw1XvHX0KJPgg6jhJoai34xUdZ57hkFaW618HF96xzOU9WQTSw/s1600/IMG_20141016_091357626.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then we went to the beach the second day. We got knocked down by the waves. I was getting buried in water. It tasted gro-dee. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPN9Sb_5uW34nmjWLZMgZqNM3e1O0toJuqZopVhnPHLl_NyDYrHMnpEtGc7GF07Z8PfWoGiZiYuePPQO88woOtaBlET3ruCJKLw_Jz03MCfGiJb5g2nhaE1RFSu15FPOyn0Ymksg/s1600/IMG_20141015_140501131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPN9Sb_5uW34nmjWLZMgZqNM3e1O0toJuqZopVhnPHLl_NyDYrHMnpEtGc7GF07Z8PfWoGiZiYuePPQO88woOtaBlET3ruCJKLw_Jz03MCfGiJb5g2nhaE1RFSu15FPOyn0Ymksg/s1600/IMG_20141015_140501131.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then we went to Epcot the next day. It was fun! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VdV13ahDp7o0lTlg5VyL4fMgcqbd2EZuDu-fHqT2frdP47O_xRUIfMSgKqwv9ovQ_cUVXwRWZBrpQ2pxrlLEfkLlZUH1w0oiHQCwncU3XyE9w9swtYJU8BsTRNmiq3Cy531jTw/s1600/IMG_20141016_103604946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VdV13ahDp7o0lTlg5VyL4fMgcqbd2EZuDu-fHqT2frdP47O_xRUIfMSgKqwv9ovQ_cUVXwRWZBrpQ2pxrlLEfkLlZUH1w0oiHQCwncU3XyE9w9swtYJU8BsTRNmiq3Cy531jTw/s1600/IMG_20141016_103604946.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We went to different countries. They were fake. I liked watching the wood contest in Canada. I was cheering for the blue team the whole time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcgD9jRsNZtXgvoUz0SYwvsm15dWIK7l8oQVLFhOl18jV6I1tcWGAFNMZA8rjILmotzLPmnOd8Iaqml6TrTOBBvildw0aSgCqKKv77fs-WYftUtNcCdqjOT7sPdsx4LYI9D6IDg/s1600/IMG_20141016_113415069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcgD9jRsNZtXgvoUz0SYwvsm15dWIK7l8oQVLFhOl18jV6I1tcWGAFNMZA8rjILmotzLPmnOd8Iaqml6TrTOBBvildw0aSgCqKKv77fs-WYftUtNcCdqjOT7sPdsx4LYI9D6IDg/s1600/IMG_20141016_113415069.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is Morocco. We saw Jasmine and Aladdin. I liked the lamps and shiny things. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvdPFnpAIvtJFjKzEUsoL8XXAAqor6ewQfmtPqyyOXOQ0Vnzr5i6B_fmbKE0rISOcRh_m9sHN9qCqFf6n3_MWgteX4-rcmWllaMhyphenhyphenh9G9GWOCI4f6ZitAvyKYhWZEWYHPSvNU4Kg/s1600/IMG_20141016_130139692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvdPFnpAIvtJFjKzEUsoL8XXAAqor6ewQfmtPqyyOXOQ0Vnzr5i6B_fmbKE0rISOcRh_m9sHN9qCqFf6n3_MWgteX4-rcmWllaMhyphenhyphenh9G9GWOCI4f6ZitAvyKYhWZEWYHPSvNU4Kg/s1600/IMG_20141016_130139692.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I liked riding on Test Track! It was SUPER DUPER fast! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEJPhJGAodJ-bkEVuiSZk0nXzE1VQ1MtJQYRMeMxiLRirtGWzEA7I8EaEWe-ToCRj552GhHk4D2u1yZl5vOabr_NZi-DeOiaxnLVzTpqU6Olj1IrCAeZzPy4RkQqIsjvWmUu8lQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_154203967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEJPhJGAodJ-bkEVuiSZk0nXzE1VQ1MtJQYRMeMxiLRirtGWzEA7I8EaEWe-ToCRj552GhHk4D2u1yZl5vOabr_NZi-DeOiaxnLVzTpqU6Olj1IrCAeZzPy4RkQqIsjvWmUu8lQ/s1600/IMG_20141016_154203967.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The next day we went to Magic Kingdom. I like all the mountains. One of them was Splash Mountain. The bunny was saying "Don't throw me into that awful briar patch!" And we felt like we were going to fall into the briar patch. We were getting SO wet! It was a lot of hills. On Big Thunder Mountain, we were turning sideways. And it was REALLY loud. It was going "clink click clink," like two pieces of metal clinking together so hard. We were going cuckoo crazy on Space Mountain. It felt like we were in Space. It was REALLY dark!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gcG68cZuXH_nvnebP-TYD18323FgYNyGCnJNqYkpCIYn3ECExYLfD5Dpy2NCTLkKvETDG1y_e10jSU7F7Or3ecjRfZFbunpWmYCFSPNzSdv1QdTt4VKRA-RLXFPF2Gx6NURozA/s1600/IMG_20141017_133826_250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gcG68cZuXH_nvnebP-TYD18323FgYNyGCnJNqYkpCIYn3ECExYLfD5Dpy2NCTLkKvETDG1y_e10jSU7F7Or3ecjRfZFbunpWmYCFSPNzSdv1QdTt4VKRA-RLXFPF2Gx6NURozA/s1600/IMG_20141017_133826_250.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I liked meeting Winnie the Pooh characters! They were fuzzy, and they gave me hugs. I like Winnie the Pooh the best. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDBfLboohHwvqF6krM5CIDl0_DrHDLQrXfXleGUPCUEoKZv8fSQwM_BnetUK5kv3_Nu1k2-R23M6n55hmoWYEk-k01nVgK6U3r2ziwr3lAv4D_zSoL6pgfiVmLtdmWFsbAmdYlQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_174253223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDBfLboohHwvqF6krM5CIDl0_DrHDLQrXfXleGUPCUEoKZv8fSQwM_BnetUK5kv3_Nu1k2-R23M6n55hmoWYEk-k01nVgK6U3r2ziwr3lAv4D_zSoL6pgfiVmLtdmWFsbAmdYlQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_174253223.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvlAHbVBTJHPip44TPtVvEmtw9iswA5wjkGRk7pyieRjqpq3JkrFIA_ovGRhmizfsgdvC_Ikl1TYy64qrPdKMLmKgu00dIFeRzoJhwqw55opf5iY5cq5V7oB2MgLeAGrzWZzMqA/s1600/IMG_20141017_174549288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvlAHbVBTJHPip44TPtVvEmtw9iswA5wjkGRk7pyieRjqpq3JkrFIA_ovGRhmizfsgdvC_Ikl1TYy64qrPdKMLmKgu00dIFeRzoJhwqw55opf5iY5cq5V7oB2MgLeAGrzWZzMqA/s1600/IMG_20141017_174549288.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I liked getting new toys! I got a sword and a pillow pet. The sword was Jack Sparrow's! The Pluto pillow pet was the softest pillow pet I ever seen. I am proud of myself for earning a lot of money to buy them. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCuVlhwWXlIRi-87Mn9QTEjYGBk4StAQS5gNwDaUjREsFfS4Zj9TilMEckcouj5cH5RxBqLVx1UdUqLtMXgOjN83Zhw3H1UsPrAd2JA00_FpKdiPvQzJHSnZLnLc0AgzxypVVHoQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_201123200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCuVlhwWXlIRi-87Mn9QTEjYGBk4StAQS5gNwDaUjREsFfS4Zj9TilMEckcouj5cH5RxBqLVx1UdUqLtMXgOjN83Zhw3H1UsPrAd2JA00_FpKdiPvQzJHSnZLnLc0AgzxypVVHoQ/s1600/IMG_20141017_201123200.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-69924464021898326002014-10-13T21:30:00.005-05:002014-10-13T21:35:42.682-05:00But We Got Cute Pictures!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We're headed to Disney World in the morning, so I thought I'd better get caught up here before the flood of trip pictures. We are so excited! This was sort of a spontaneously planned trip- Paul had a business trip to Disney, and we just decided that it would be fun for all of us to tag along. I mean, free hotel and a free plan ticket? No brainer. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Last week was General Conference. I love that my kids love this time of year. They anticipate it with as much excitement as they do holidays. We got out our Conference board (which needs a facelift), our perler beads and a big fort. The house turned into one giant ball of chaos over the weekend, but for how much we all got out of it, it was worth it! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQkQKzaGd9r3Os2R_Jkkc7eOynmaujdctbY_AVGmGWBlEULsx8gDw75PFH1pc-HtsEz9fM2fIYSIj4rdA-pFhybKkKeoQXQkVhzJYeYZC7iqrm7FvKXiUzYw9M8w_QjIbkCe1XJQ/s1600/IMG_20141005_165119300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQkQKzaGd9r3Os2R_Jkkc7eOynmaujdctbY_AVGmGWBlEULsx8gDw75PFH1pc-HtsEz9fM2fIYSIj4rdA-pFhybKkKeoQXQkVhzJYeYZC7iqrm7FvKXiUzYw9M8w_QjIbkCe1XJQ/s1600/IMG_20141005_165119300.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A friend of mine invited us to go apple picking with her one day. Our four kids are almost the exact same ages, and Nora and Rose especially get along. The people who ran the farm must not see a lot of business, because they were incredibly friendly and helpful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVbEmh6aF4iYWpKgZwZPYVZpURtamkCHgHAyieQ-U2gyxD2E1_F4buAIBag52PYiwBP0zkSaG8e-Ce9-0EP5PyaUY-5Iqb9kkaeAQQlUK3SCflEWsFdEBgi7fEN3A-3Nv6qbewg/s1600/IMG_20141006_103903449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVbEmh6aF4iYWpKgZwZPYVZpURtamkCHgHAyieQ-U2gyxD2E1_F4buAIBag52PYiwBP0zkSaG8e-Ce9-0EP5PyaUY-5Iqb9kkaeAQQlUK3SCflEWsFdEBgi7fEN3A-3Nv6qbewg/s1600/IMG_20141006_103903449.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We got some beautiful mums for really cheap too while we were there. And then I bought some MASSIVE blue pottery-looking pots from Lowe's for $2.50 each to put them in. I wish I had a picture, but it's dark outside right now. I'm pretty proud of how I only spent $17 total on two mums and some pretty pots to put them in. My doorway looks so cheery.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Also, we saw this miniature pony while we were there. It's funny, for as much as Lydia loves furry animals, she would not go near that horse. Too scary.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxg9lBBeZ7mfz05IcWhjnKQQuYzLcLq66rggDar4W46yLqKoWDLqYRecB6kvz4frr1kbx98a0sAEnmmODQ15HFFdJjk937I_lx7SEq9F32lgAC8Tu_kVv3U6cW_HInSVGhNq2TuA/s1600/IMG_20141006_111202866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxg9lBBeZ7mfz05IcWhjnKQQuYzLcLq66rggDar4W46yLqKoWDLqYRecB6kvz4frr1kbx98a0sAEnmmODQ15HFFdJjk937I_lx7SEq9F32lgAC8Tu_kVv3U6cW_HInSVGhNq2TuA/s1600/IMG_20141006_111202866.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Speaking of Lydia, this is where she likes to do some light reading these days. Just to be clear, there is absolutely no potty training happening right now, but she loves pulling this out of the closet and sitting on it while reading our potty book. Certainly can't hurt!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKM_xni1PKDKhUdNCWdiKN4e3ROEeCHuF56z28Nkd1p9YjHxRswYz3Dm_qHmNdYlBRqSHvQuKvYp81R1dfhr7_wnYqn1q_0M6FgxXFSysYuG5tT7BTJz4nx-r9EYXJ029at4DbYQ/s1600/IMG_20141007_082314015_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKM_xni1PKDKhUdNCWdiKN4e3ROEeCHuF56z28Nkd1p9YjHxRswYz3Dm_qHmNdYlBRqSHvQuKvYp81R1dfhr7_wnYqn1q_0M6FgxXFSysYuG5tT7BTJz4nx-r9EYXJ029at4DbYQ/s1600/IMG_20141007_082314015_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I celebrated my 31st birthday this week! It was a pretty average day. Dentist for all the kids in the morning (which Nora had been anxiously anticipating, right along with Disney World. Seriously, she LOVES the dentist), playgroup mid-day, cleaning the house throughout the day, and cub scouts in the evening. We didn't really have time for a proper celebration. I think we'll make up for it this week, though! :) Here's the beautiful bouquet Paul brought home sitting on our brand new kitchen table! It's such an improvement from the old one we were using. I'll get a better picture of it eventually. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgFOc7MLD0G9qluHpslOz04OIzF0j9UyMa9Viv8tvUSyiIY7msEBOn2Ehyphenhyphenu3o4t2OIL1cQ5Wvxoj6DRTVqzNKVo7H5017DpWtudxm_8CJdxdsZQCQ_ees3bsptt6fOLPWN-1ZQQ/s1600/IMG_20141009_183259491_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgFOc7MLD0G9qluHpslOz04OIzF0j9UyMa9Viv8tvUSyiIY7msEBOn2Ehyphenhyphenu3o4t2OIL1cQ5Wvxoj6DRTVqzNKVo7H5017DpWtudxm_8CJdxdsZQCQ_ees3bsptt6fOLPWN-1ZQQ/s1600/IMG_20141009_183259491_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
Another thing we've been working on lately was planning my family's upcoming reunion. We have very diverse needs this year, so we were going to meet for a Google chat this past Saturday to nail out the details. I was on my way home to join in the chat when this happened...coming down a windy hill (which was deceptively dry, but slick from all the recent rain and the silt that was left behind), my car started spinning out, and I overcorrected, turning almost 180 degrees and sliding into a pole. I was lucky that no other cars were involved, I was fine, the car was fine other than a flat tire and an ugly dent, AND the police offered to waive a traffic report. Still, it was kind of lame to have to miss out on talking to my family that afternoon. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw1Hyh73xpq-wtjKi9VYpapHk9QIwTTDEqrS50t4TuF9mTk_xoFOXFFRTwoinouwpsx3OgpWhsvz4iznQ9Kmbf5qV7qh6WgX4Q_eGQK81x5cIbZf8cQl17Sd5wDtKxrb2BnhXKpg/s1600/IMG_20141011_141737269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw1Hyh73xpq-wtjKi9VYpapHk9QIwTTDEqrS50t4TuF9mTk_xoFOXFFRTwoinouwpsx3OgpWhsvz4iznQ9Kmbf5qV7qh6WgX4Q_eGQK81x5cIbZf8cQl17Sd5wDtKxrb2BnhXKpg/s1600/IMG_20141011_141737269.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
I was glad it didn't take TOO long for the tow truck to finally show up, because we also had family pictures scheduled for that afternoon. We didn't get any<i> great</i> ones of the whole family, because of a certain almost-six-year-old who wasn't in a cooperative mood, but I think they captured us well. I give him a pass this time, only because I know for a fact that I was about his age when I ruined my family's pictures over an ugly dress that I did NOT want to wear. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG2Y2OFYUhn7rChuvVm4-0Bxbmtnq7BCBFauIPWtRUaEXj0Q2mA2eXFDoBQ7s6KEz3l9Xi2Fo4raDLLyHssRG-vFp_vWr00GVX-PRV-i6iu9PS4qN7hqZHkiTN_MY10o-La9owlQ/s1600/01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG2Y2OFYUhn7rChuvVm4-0Bxbmtnq7BCBFauIPWtRUaEXj0Q2mA2eXFDoBQ7s6KEz3l9Xi2Fo4raDLLyHssRG-vFp_vWr00GVX-PRV-i6iu9PS4qN7hqZHkiTN_MY10o-La9owlQ/s1600/01.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69783776UPP4dUshsBhIE6acJmdmIaSQ04zExi79H7J3XNn1ef-ucWhUzdkJkbao-ePwdDCm94NprtZPqH7QVE5P-YigNKn3lfX1BLsIhGI52c-5WMH5w2FSPkFlpNcgrNw00cA/s1600/15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69783776UPP4dUshsBhIE6acJmdmIaSQ04zExi79H7J3XNn1ef-ucWhUzdkJkbao-ePwdDCm94NprtZPqH7QVE5P-YigNKn3lfX1BLsIhGI52c-5WMH5w2FSPkFlpNcgrNw00cA/s1600/15.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg20Q0GZgxbqCBMysnorSIsn_OMRyeNf4kGaNnqbJSh5WDU2ge2VsPKBcbLw4ns_Qi2TUEjIoZoU77CxPAjhDjcwXBNezbVMtAdWTiR67i-W1G7WQnKsd6hU_DFiAYK_rD7aPKoFg/s1600/21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg20Q0GZgxbqCBMysnorSIsn_OMRyeNf4kGaNnqbJSh5WDU2ge2VsPKBcbLw4ns_Qi2TUEjIoZoU77CxPAjhDjcwXBNezbVMtAdWTiR67i-W1G7WQnKsd6hU_DFiAYK_rD7aPKoFg/s1600/21.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEE-VdYW1grdqfcGmx_LidiXC_QG74Yv3unhuyTZIpxw0tfeRTN4aXRvIzz4r8Cxf8B-950gfklcdWkcadeZye2dwz7ZIAfxb-4o3GC8zrfqbEzA9J74RZRPuh3W4q01pCgizSUw/s1600/79.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEE-VdYW1grdqfcGmx_LidiXC_QG74Yv3unhuyTZIpxw0tfeRTN4aXRvIzz4r8Cxf8B-950gfklcdWkcadeZye2dwz7ZIAfxb-4o3GC8zrfqbEzA9J74RZRPuh3W4q01pCgizSUw/s1600/79.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeru241StcKjag_6gI4s2iX3OAE6o49g2iYZqpRGhjUfkRhbTiWf04yg96u5nVMlhBFn0trA-PC8xit2plcTZ5Mi-sP-8DYcI1dBxE2rzt3C1SlqkubxA525SbCEjpKDyZrOSiDg/s1600/87.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeru241StcKjag_6gI4s2iX3OAE6o49g2iYZqpRGhjUfkRhbTiWf04yg96u5nVMlhBFn0trA-PC8xit2plcTZ5Mi-sP-8DYcI1dBxE2rzt3C1SlqkubxA525SbCEjpKDyZrOSiDg/s1600/87.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ItJ1_4vXIuJ8zlcOsoNJ8gxw6H28F7Q-WleZ4DU2Ef8JpArE4-dqbOYjd6wiskabJFlqxp3B3L9irP8agRbslM19975pWcFlJKYSv___4l4j4I5s5_mvXuDBoCjheEp0qpD5Tg/s1600/72.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ItJ1_4vXIuJ8zlcOsoNJ8gxw6H28F7Q-WleZ4DU2Ef8JpArE4-dqbOYjd6wiskabJFlqxp3B3L9irP8agRbslM19975pWcFlJKYSv___4l4j4I5s5_mvXuDBoCjheEp0qpD5Tg/s1600/72.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQOTHXFuVHYVRTsLVASYi8YsZ7Ouyq_XcVczNAb4Qy3frW3FA2dsHqp8y7ygcA9vPpmPsSypFDVkheMhBZ_yi11O8huwoORvLxCt2Kk6yvrAJyXqI_czTzghd4Gk0WdVHTIq4Jw/s1600/122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQOTHXFuVHYVRTsLVASYi8YsZ7Ouyq_XcVczNAb4Qy3frW3FA2dsHqp8y7ygcA9vPpmPsSypFDVkheMhBZ_yi11O8huwoORvLxCt2Kk6yvrAJyXqI_czTzghd4Gk0WdVHTIq4Jw/s1600/122.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjazN0vLykrQw9kWCH16ujy5hp9fhbHxR7SXFMLCFgNJFOpX4oUNb5eXakKZMUMsoUas-RXlOMacDpWrq2I67bITrXoIT8RWHlAz6FqR9LJZUveHKkgvLU85LJXUSjFKdHarV7pvw/s1600/124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjazN0vLykrQw9kWCH16ujy5hp9fhbHxR7SXFMLCFgNJFOpX4oUNb5eXakKZMUMsoUas-RXlOMacDpWrq2I67bITrXoIT8RWHlAz6FqR9LJZUveHKkgvLU85LJXUSjFKdHarV7pvw/s1600/124.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokh9Kd-CXCEK0Y3Yo735zcxeyG1WVqN1vpAe9ny9Z0e2e_DaXBBK4-MnH0XdFuEUSWKhu-XxkaWzFB4hSiuZ71ylinqqaPWNctKQ35BAv1MO6RcPTTQLrlUOFtytHxsk60FpdtA/s1600/111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokh9Kd-CXCEK0Y3Yo735zcxeyG1WVqN1vpAe9ny9Z0e2e_DaXBBK4-MnH0XdFuEUSWKhu-XxkaWzFB4hSiuZ71ylinqqaPWNctKQ35BAv1MO6RcPTTQLrlUOFtytHxsk60FpdtA/s1600/111.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TTxeH1RnuBp1BQhBVa8DLIhAy9S2-0V4qyxQvUzxFohLZkBn6cjErq7tf1srYunoY468gPcONJPIWJJdyTQlmfMkxrSOpy8vZfn5RYOP09FQVZ1vWRpF1nEsJfVAyp1wTRlSzw/s1600/38.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TTxeH1RnuBp1BQhBVa8DLIhAy9S2-0V4qyxQvUzxFohLZkBn6cjErq7tf1srYunoY468gPcONJPIWJJdyTQlmfMkxrSOpy8vZfn5RYOP09FQVZ1vWRpF1nEsJfVAyp1wTRlSzw/s1600/38.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCeTPXeFy34bXfCr3XDFlT2hGlQX6cWyTUKo3spauaRnM1FnYI-kxhmasrJtev7SSjnVkBijdxxk6m7SbY5MlwM41TY-WoVaZddnQghcHABiF5eGAW2grZLU2LdcVnTPm8ohRtA/s1600/66.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCeTPXeFy34bXfCr3XDFlT2hGlQX6cWyTUKo3spauaRnM1FnYI-kxhmasrJtev7SSjnVkBijdxxk6m7SbY5MlwM41TY-WoVaZddnQghcHABiF5eGAW2grZLU2LdcVnTPm8ohRtA/s1600/66.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia377e83NvFJVJmZ6QmF0GyX-IWDqsdhS1GkHh0KsfxxNRdkpzR6MHLhVo-Kvoxd1BfRXUSa8rA_lwJLK0l6QJK7yOCb3H_1-QL4pIgY0MEdB9tV4vaYv4fDhKhNSGLJdfPvsKHg/s1600/60+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia377e83NvFJVJmZ6QmF0GyX-IWDqsdhS1GkHh0KsfxxNRdkpzR6MHLhVo-Kvoxd1BfRXUSa8rA_lwJLK0l6QJK7yOCb3H_1-QL4pIgY0MEdB9tV4vaYv4fDhKhNSGLJdfPvsKHg/s1600/60+(1).jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-JCXVS85dmR5bo75odEY-vQ_7ugWfLaofWRZbRrHljPjTYPgK0YWwWI9yYtC32QvyqWJko4avdtZPs8Gb3Dgo3O_ZJ_zLs4pNFUOLpfnDOV8fzJ0TaIYxqGgVEh-FxbuRwPDfQ/s1600/112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-JCXVS85dmR5bo75odEY-vQ_7ugWfLaofWRZbRrHljPjTYPgK0YWwWI9yYtC32QvyqWJko4avdtZPs8Gb3Dgo3O_ZJ_zLs4pNFUOLpfnDOV8fzJ0TaIYxqGgVEh-FxbuRwPDfQ/s1600/112.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVa53hs_IyGMiTg1kwY6thTSlk6dwzOg2aicwT5dYkQ3spr6YEs74uRuWVo4lBoVXgaHRzBp5FnYE1E59NE3nAW5k4s0LCPC7VHWv-I14c2icXNhZ4z6qsX6XjPtpkopSGgh2aQ/s1600/133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVa53hs_IyGMiTg1kwY6thTSlk6dwzOg2aicwT5dYkQ3spr6YEs74uRuWVo4lBoVXgaHRzBp5FnYE1E59NE3nAW5k4s0LCPC7VHWv-I14c2icXNhZ4z6qsX6XjPtpkopSGgh2aQ/s1600/133.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
I sure love this family of mine. Our kitchen wall now has family pictures up over the table. I focused mostly on picking ones with me or Paul with each of the kids individually. They love it. And now we've got a bunch of new ones to add! Happy day!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-33060471250424148932014-10-04T21:47:00.003-05:002014-10-04T21:55:16.108-05:00Liddy 1.5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the record, I haven't totally abandoned the blog, although sometimes it feels like I have. I'm so out of the habit now, that I almost feels like I need something earth shattering to write about...like a move, or a big trip, or a new baby. I'm kidding about the baby. Anyways, I realized the other day when Lydia's 18 month birthday came and went that I hadn't really dedicated a post to her in about six months. Which is exactly 1/3 of her life, so a lot has changed since then. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of all my babies, she's probably the baby-est. She waited until she was about 15 months to walk. She wanted to nurse until she was almost 17 months. She is the WORST teether. But I'm not complaining. She really just has me wrapped around her chubby little finger, and she knows it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCJ5CyocZ8bDYvRh_B3uPvthW1rYgUeTjrs6ICsQ0L1zv_2cBX_CA02U-piBUdiHZkZHw4Ezf7OVoX72ort7zkFb8Gr06gW7OLkFxalfLiArtslMECJQRHqLXzFi_AimXRaGsyg/s1600/IMG_2684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCJ5CyocZ8bDYvRh_B3uPvthW1rYgUeTjrs6ICsQ0L1zv_2cBX_CA02U-piBUdiHZkZHw4Ezf7OVoX72ort7zkFb8Gr06gW7OLkFxalfLiArtslMECJQRHqLXzFi_AimXRaGsyg/s1600/IMG_2684.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Lydia is obsessed with belly buttons. She can point to all her body parts, but only has language for her "nose."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7w16XmcCx8hcwrMkRIOcW4JVMz1bJjnep57HvXlMzo4pGeQwJlHz0dGvNkya-AaojvH4yuGrbme8ph42qScf5YQFj6ceMiWT8DKI6lXJgcGO_gsUmN0xJb4NHmnj4rwAAnYaCDA/s1600/IMG_20140908_095325766_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7w16XmcCx8hcwrMkRIOcW4JVMz1bJjnep57HvXlMzo4pGeQwJlHz0dGvNkya-AaojvH4yuGrbme8ph42qScf5YQFj6ceMiWT8DKI6lXJgcGO_gsUmN0xJb4NHmnj4rwAAnYaCDA/s1600/IMG_20140908_095325766_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
She's at a fun age for the zoo. I took her and Nora a few weeks ago, and she was fascinated with all the animals- especially the monkeys.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXuHNOjtFFDmqoJxE9ZWINalU_eBWPGgWCFOEMD-itTi6jnf0wyKYyRraa1jnb9VHaXieY74QbsmbFfXfF4igk6smI4trXEK2qzJFmfnUpZI2_qlVrqhKwI7XCX7Ot2QoxDWAxw/s1600/IMG_20140916_170400191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXuHNOjtFFDmqoJxE9ZWINalU_eBWPGgWCFOEMD-itTi6jnf0wyKYyRraa1jnb9VHaXieY74QbsmbFfXfF4igk6smI4trXEK2qzJFmfnUpZI2_qlVrqhKwI7XCX7Ot2QoxDWAxw/s1600/IMG_20140916_170400191.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Lydia has a big fan club. Benjamin loves playing with her when she'll let him. He usually has to earn a hug from her, because she's a little bit of a tease with her affections.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPpk3I9kVZ7uTVOxhTuTTx6415JUgWajCOelRxq5vqZkclfk9CkqZG-tHCUqivQP9fkJdwiDHFY29-8dZtVkWEZjaoy4Bryg1HCgKUdStqgJklsXMxhJljebNa0tvyz_DatlfIQ/s1600/IMG_20140924_133649874_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPpk3I9kVZ7uTVOxhTuTTx6415JUgWajCOelRxq5vqZkclfk9CkqZG-tHCUqivQP9fkJdwiDHFY29-8dZtVkWEZjaoy4Bryg1HCgKUdStqgJklsXMxhJljebNa0tvyz_DatlfIQ/s1600/IMG_20140924_133649874_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
I had to include this one, because it's kind of typical these days. Sometimes I blame it on teething (which really does take a toll on this girl!), but it's often just something little that sets her off. I'm a little out of practice dealing with an emotional toddler. She's been to Nursery at church a few times now, and apparently she likes to be held the entire time. No snacks, no toys, no songs, just a pair of exclusive arms all to herself. Hmm.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje2AvlsYN2a65_6pKAmEbYg8k2gP07mIq7i2JySOcaHUB2ZN2U0XYq8IoCy9zBCieIjTUROm6A99KuPqs4i2eKXUGRxYTGbh11Lphm__SrnRKiUemfi4zmyzrAjB2dLRAwU9QhJA/s1600/IMG_20140926_093839579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje2AvlsYN2a65_6pKAmEbYg8k2gP07mIq7i2JySOcaHUB2ZN2U0XYq8IoCy9zBCieIjTUROm6A99KuPqs4i2eKXUGRxYTGbh11Lphm__SrnRKiUemfi4zmyzrAjB2dLRAwU9QhJA/s1600/IMG_20140926_093839579.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia is a very observant little girl. She loves to help me around the house, and is often pulling plates and cups and bowls out to set out on the table whenever she's hungry. She is really good at picking things up and putting things away, but recently her desire to dump out whatever she just cleaned up usually wins. So there's usually a trail of messes left in her wake.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoeaMjD6m6FLfAckGX5k7uWE26ad_vt1LxiYKp1Q9IEydPNi7j6Hi9Cro_ED6_c5JwFvhkO0DyoL1cpL2yR2acNCQ1GWpAMQEPuSZTT0RHqxQMACkfhkcxCpRo4QbDOyBEUpPj6g/s1600/IMG_20140927_175817854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoeaMjD6m6FLfAckGX5k7uWE26ad_vt1LxiYKp1Q9IEydPNi7j6Hi9Cro_ED6_c5JwFvhkO0DyoL1cpL2yR2acNCQ1GWpAMQEPuSZTT0RHqxQMACkfhkcxCpRo4QbDOyBEUpPj6g/s1600/IMG_20140927_175817854.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Nora and Lydia are becoming the sweetest little friends. One of their games they like to play is "doggy," where Nora walks Lydia around, using a broken plastic necklace, a belt, or a sash.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7WaB3MRbAIIfg0zKecbNiwxpyEkMHo0QZSagUeUxnvvFmmmK1aLw3ACBgUZgUdYNfCaQpuyARVpfmKuRWjQBYfiSqt2V6QEbNeQ1jKVJQeqo2jfYRu1chXbavsdUWjZMkvadw5A/s1600/IMG_20140929_094009069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7WaB3MRbAIIfg0zKecbNiwxpyEkMHo0QZSagUeUxnvvFmmmK1aLw3ACBgUZgUdYNfCaQpuyARVpfmKuRWjQBYfiSqt2V6QEbNeQ1jKVJQeqo2jfYRu1chXbavsdUWjZMkvadw5A/s1600/IMG_20140929_094009069.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The other day we found this tractor ride-on toy in our neighbor's garbage pile. Lydia loves girly things, but she also has a thing for trucks, so we hauled this thing home. It works sporadically, but the girls don't seem to care.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKeXrp4KvkcRkQYFU4sTVtC2JG0Fv0EFe2rdoVT3s0srw7I67zAvxL_GqNsopgoBGmaQGEPfFSEvnMl5W1kKXh-QTSnQnWs9J1x2Rn3UgSMSROmhqPzKOCmId5qeVyj4lLDzPYtg/s1600/IMG_20140930_110646320_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKeXrp4KvkcRkQYFU4sTVtC2JG0Fv0EFe2rdoVT3s0srw7I67zAvxL_GqNsopgoBGmaQGEPfFSEvnMl5W1kKXh-QTSnQnWs9J1x2Rn3UgSMSROmhqPzKOCmId5qeVyj4lLDzPYtg/s1600/IMG_20140930_110646320_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
This girl loves dressing up, and has strong opinions about what she will and will not wear. Another one of her words she frequently uses is "Pretty." :) She's just starting to get into princesses, and sings a surprisingly recognizable rendition of "Let it Go." Her favorite princess right now is Snow White. I'm admittedly playing along with the princess thing right now because we're going to Disney World in about a week and a half, and I want her to have some idea of what's going on.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsAJa4keyua0JYyTgcNb7fjJ-YtzfNPGTohmedxbA_qXZfiub6EAkKBkKVf5GPCJsioyuoNrWd94kbWm85A4C-qC9xgkyhSwdGO9ijqFQIp9rNaXkR4TPIOovblA1mGeG38k8bw/s1600/IMG_20141003_143616371_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsAJa4keyua0JYyTgcNb7fjJ-YtzfNPGTohmedxbA_qXZfiub6EAkKBkKVf5GPCJsioyuoNrWd94kbWm85A4C-qC9xgkyhSwdGO9ijqFQIp9rNaXkR4TPIOovblA1mGeG38k8bw/s1600/IMG_20141003_143616371_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Lydia also loves her some "boots," which is probably her clearest word she says (it's a close tie with "NO!"). My sister introduced us to the Laurie Berkner "Boots" song for this very reason, and it's been a love-fest ever since.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ozTXG_FvGNKZevhPEI8Lm9dE4zutxDy7TlnOzpMiBmlDnge_9U5UOV374hYBLMC-kgO-ZPuwW0wVfdTKJgUUJ4o20J1ui6pHyQBqSitaUTotdSnZaNJjSh3wAb5O5dUobOpmOQ/s1600/IMG_20141003_144431395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ozTXG_FvGNKZevhPEI8Lm9dE4zutxDy7TlnOzpMiBmlDnge_9U5UOV374hYBLMC-kgO-ZPuwW0wVfdTKJgUUJ4o20J1ui6pHyQBqSitaUTotdSnZaNJjSh3wAb5O5dUobOpmOQ/s1600/IMG_20141003_144431395.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
We usually have to keep markers out of her reach, because she likes to use them. ;) She has had a distinctive scream from the day she was born, and she still knows how to use it. I'm learning not to give in, but it's sometimes easier said than done. For all her silly antics, I'm sure glad this "Liddy Lady" was born into our family. She makes it a fun place!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-49500923772444424122014-09-07T15:41:00.001-05:002014-09-07T18:25:43.778-05:00StretchingI'm not a busy person by nature. I love being home and working on things at my own pace and interest. I love not having too many demands on my time, and I avoid over-programming my kids whenever possible.<br />
<div>
I think I was waiting for the school year to begin to really get back into my groove, but it doesn't look like my life will be as simple as I'm used to any time soon. And I'm trying to learn to be ok with that. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One thing I love about our church is how many opportunities we have for service. Paul has been teaching Gospel Doctrine all year (which is his favorite thing to do!), and I've enjoyed serving as a Personal Progress advisor in the Young Women's organization for a while now. So I was a little surprised when we were approached and asked to take on a few additional responsibilities with the Scouts- me as a Den Mother and Paul as the Scout Master. Since I know nothing about scouts (and honestly have had conflicting opinions about it in the past), this was a daunting task to add to my plate. I didn't even know where to begin. But I was just assigned a co-leader who has lots of experience with scouting, and now I'm feeling a lot more settled about it. I know it will be a good thing to be involved in Benjamin's life this way. </div>
<div>
Paul and I were also asked a while back to plan the ward Halloween party, which will also take some time and effort. I've got some good ideas for that brewing, but it may be more than I <i>should </i>take on. I've got to remind myself to keep things simple. </div>
<div>
I'm also planning the Young Women in Excellence program for this Fall. I'm so not good at this type of thing, but I feel strongly about recognizing the hard work and accomplishments of these girls. I planned this last year too, but it's not one of those things that you can keep the same, year after year. So that's been a little time consuming- just to formulate the feel and direction we want for it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GWPGRewFsqhUX97waOiuoV99sbLqhFmUwkQ6Gq5HvjW9GE3eFtG0mwb7tXtHrQxC4MDDpljep7gZKAii9xryb7FofzGPDVdM00eC-Zk-MDZFjMc4MRKA4-E0TvFvS_V_mK5L7w/s1600/IMG_20140906_170715416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GWPGRewFsqhUX97waOiuoV99sbLqhFmUwkQ6Gq5HvjW9GE3eFtG0mwb7tXtHrQxC4MDDpljep7gZKAii9xryb7FofzGPDVdM00eC-Zk-MDZFjMc4MRKA4-E0TvFvS_V_mK5L7w/s1600/IMG_20140906_170715416.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
Just yesterday, I had the opportunity to join our amazing young men and young women on their annual float trip. I was gone from about 5:30 in the morning to about 9:00 at night. It was the first time in recent memory that I'd been away from all of my kids for that long, and it was kind of a nice break. We drove for about three hours each way, and had about 50 people paddling canoes down a river all day. My arms were <i>sore</i> by the end! We stopped in a cave along the way and each took turns diving from the rocks into the dark icy water inside. I sometimes forget how much I love that kind of thing. It was so exhilarating! And exhausting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGk05vUu5us4uifkkW5qL92ZMCNGQAyt0sklSm26EzDcqZ6WmzOFOwZc1OgaPG9hOdho9Ks7Kyn5534jGmUj0cOu2niBmCS9MP53v1qRG-ovzfe3ImnzFpyfkEXI_alpGvC-Iusg/s1600/IMG_20140906_170156102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGk05vUu5us4uifkkW5qL92ZMCNGQAyt0sklSm26EzDcqZ6WmzOFOwZc1OgaPG9hOdho9Ks7Kyn5534jGmUj0cOu2niBmCS9MP53v1qRG-ovzfe3ImnzFpyfkEXI_alpGvC-Iusg/s1600/IMG_20140906_170156102.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxRggV3D6Ha21h6StCoh6gH1jfoyvtq01Q0pqKqlR77fJ26FHLw0B1ZOnl5fUtjeG-VyVcs9oScuVxxzzArFzRIpQhAqlNYeiuuqcEGO_oZBWEem1mx69osk3L7qjK_l-UlmANw/s1600/IMG_20140826_090316894_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxRggV3D6Ha21h6StCoh6gH1jfoyvtq01Q0pqKqlR77fJ26FHLw0B1ZOnl5fUtjeG-VyVcs9oScuVxxzzArFzRIpQhAqlNYeiuuqcEGO_oZBWEem1mx69osk3L7qjK_l-UlmANw/s1600/IMG_20140826_090316894_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div>
I was Nora's teacher this week for Joy School, which is a small rotating preschool that I'm doing with three other moms. I had four sweet little 3 and 4 year olds for three hours on Tuesday and then again on Thursday. I was a little nervous to get started that first time, but by the second time, I had comfortably found my groove. We had a bunch of stations set out- a matching game, puzzles, Legos, math rods (for simple adding and pattern recognition), and letter tracing. We have a calendar and a weather chart and a "Joy School house" with their pictures inside the windows that rotates around to each of our houses. And we usually do a short lesson about something like obedience or something else that is character-based. There are also songs that go a long with the program, but I've had a harder time really embracing them. It's an old program, and a lot of it just feels dated and unnatural to me. Their favorite is free-play time, and I have to remind myself that (at least at this age) unstructured social interaction is probably better than anything I'm teaching them. I am glad I'm doing this with her. I'm also glad to have a break for the next three weeks! :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWejJTB3OrIKk09P5aJqc490js1n0E2d1gYkMYr40lDIYTP2ATwlnmhvMpaYybMP_wjM7D7njOf4Tp6rmMcGpRCBGcC9GNq84dzepBolEIAO9syWOxohoWK4r08rJDjiXT8XHLXQ/s1600/IMG_20140818_162433755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWejJTB3OrIKk09P5aJqc490js1n0E2d1gYkMYr40lDIYTP2ATwlnmhvMpaYybMP_wjM7D7njOf4Tp6rmMcGpRCBGcC9GNq84dzepBolEIAO9syWOxohoWK4r08rJDjiXT8XHLXQ/s1600/IMG_20140818_162433755.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div>
I've been loving the bit of extra time I've had with just Lydia twice a week. She is a funny girl, and her developing personality continues to surprise and delight me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQJoqBk4gRYOwwU-N_2NIADsumYNV9BUhe92mdOvz2m4EjKL7N3CA3dY77OnkYT7EsZwRvKcLwenxX53HpbSd4l71iX8g9g6thGyIgxLu-2vx-izuw3gkbNV27khW0Og4zl_dQw/s1600/IMG_20140816_143848982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQJoqBk4gRYOwwU-N_2NIADsumYNV9BUhe92mdOvz2m4EjKL7N3CA3dY77OnkYT7EsZwRvKcLwenxX53HpbSd4l71iX8g9g6thGyIgxLu-2vx-izuw3gkbNV27khW0Og4zl_dQw/s1600/IMG_20140816_143848982.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
We took the kids bowling a few weeks ago, just for fun. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-2aFfFUfBhfqoU5iDmTKwgP5UKCmgQgqs4QyinN_zh-bbjG5rqJM6mCk0t_6tUFVovNV9pUW8HnqqGgNxucGgNtcFbLN9jYo99inLU6xqD1NnwHVQbck0QQVt_AGDkl7MMyCzIw/s1600/IMG_20140816_143002137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-2aFfFUfBhfqoU5iDmTKwgP5UKCmgQgqs4QyinN_zh-bbjG5rqJM6mCk0t_6tUFVovNV9pUW8HnqqGgNxucGgNtcFbLN9jYo99inLU6xqD1NnwHVQbck0QQVt_AGDkl7MMyCzIw/s1600/IMG_20140816_143002137.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Lydia has been perfecting her high five!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrDj2puY-YSFcPyM0dVOyRM20ejcJX7p6KjYhcpCCyEvJ0ZR7LFZTv8Db8IHyUZkZTnbVMMMWnZf13axqbiQ_lAsHuVf86b68KUcKSYHIX68ETxxf8kcb8oU7chS2QTJPWBwDvg/s1600/IMG_20140820_122711054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrDj2puY-YSFcPyM0dVOyRM20ejcJX7p6KjYhcpCCyEvJ0ZR7LFZTv8Db8IHyUZkZTnbVMMMWnZf13axqbiQ_lAsHuVf86b68KUcKSYHIX68ETxxf8kcb8oU7chS2QTJPWBwDvg/s1600/IMG_20140820_122711054.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
As part of our ward's temple consecration day a few weeks ago, there was free babysitting offered right there so young moms could attend a session. The girls and I enjoyed walking around the grounds for a few minutes afterwards. I'm so lucky to live so close!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTRYBNINQ4wI4M33dZMfNhwZMJsjmDoQoU9Kfe1hMMayQ0KMA_AjA7hKt4oRMiLy5p87iAYQVxtt2orpCv4bw4EedyDINoh0mHskh1IhguvJ4VTFipAoIJbsVnbfNauzyy2fZEw/s1600/IMG_20140901_124806521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTRYBNINQ4wI4M33dZMfNhwZMJsjmDoQoU9Kfe1hMMayQ0KMA_AjA7hKt4oRMiLy5p87iAYQVxtt2orpCv4bw4EedyDINoh0mHskh1IhguvJ4VTFipAoIJbsVnbfNauzyy2fZEw/s1600/IMG_20140901_124806521.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We finally tackled painting the first room in our house. I still have to paint the beams, but the walls are done and it feels great. So much fresher in there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidb-moDI6BqcJaBUl4E9Vme43cM7E-13tMTvxLM2kpVijWAoyR7SCeXyVVFg61iU3_6DzWLo6ZIt-otw_x2z9hTlDj3O_iyUf0UzVLNvmhC_DfqPtNC-viID3rWrMVt3uUZRxI_g/s1600/IMG_20140901_163837637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidb-moDI6BqcJaBUl4E9Vme43cM7E-13tMTvxLM2kpVijWAoyR7SCeXyVVFg61iU3_6DzWLo6ZIt-otw_x2z9hTlDj3O_iyUf0UzVLNvmhC_DfqPtNC-viID3rWrMVt3uUZRxI_g/s1600/IMG_20140901_163837637.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
We joined a bunch of friends over Labor Day for an impromptu pool party (at Benjamin's and Peter's old preschool at the Bailey's) while Paul finished painting at home. We really didn't get enough pool time in this summer, but the boys are still pretty great little swimmers. The diving board was their favorite!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUnsWUfNeBiIBZrx0TEuueQrhGCY-IJmeGT33IaGa6gu6wxaJ24NoKQv1q5OxoQ_hkikvGlcuA1tN1y9E7yQEFSeFRbPNi6vAeMFCWH8FEDUXMFTy8RADFIQfRzk5eEA0fw9W5Q/s1600/IMG_20140901_165144328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUnsWUfNeBiIBZrx0TEuueQrhGCY-IJmeGT33IaGa6gu6wxaJ24NoKQv1q5OxoQ_hkikvGlcuA1tN1y9E7yQEFSeFRbPNi6vAeMFCWH8FEDUXMFTy8RADFIQfRzk5eEA0fw9W5Q/s1600/IMG_20140901_165144328.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Lydia loved their chickens. And their dog. And their cat. She is a bit of an animal fanatic.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDiZVbZz51mUATUcCP5E45xDdm0U6clP7MO9_RoU6iK6Tv-0ab2sotzggOdCTn0wRJsp9XP5_S4dNYvOkXa-DRn6Cf0e9N3wVYPXXlVNFYtNqbhblt8L5W3thMo7WF_TUJh_m_A/s1600/IMG_20140902_152415630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDiZVbZz51mUATUcCP5E45xDdm0U6clP7MO9_RoU6iK6Tv-0ab2sotzggOdCTn0wRJsp9XP5_S4dNYvOkXa-DRn6Cf0e9N3wVYPXXlVNFYtNqbhblt8L5W3thMo7WF_TUJh_m_A/s1600/IMG_20140902_152415630.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
Then there's the thing I wish I had all the time in the world for. I'm really hoping to have a painting finished to submit to the Church's International Art Competition this fall. I've been studying the New Testament a lot for this, trying to find the right inspiration for a piece. I think I've settled on something, and have been working through sketches, trying to get it right. I have always had a hard time doing things for myself, so this was a big goal for me this year- especially since this particular competition only happens once every four years. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wish I were better at blogging lately. I forget how nice it is to sit down and write. It's funny that with all that's been going on, I haven't known what to write about for a while. It also might have to do with my regular morning walks that I've started taking with an old friend and new neighbor, that has sort of become my new therapy. So I guess (at least in my mind) I feel like I've already talked through things, and I don't need to record it here. But for the sake of my personal history, I know I'll be glad I took the time to write this stuff down. Even if it sometimes feels like a long ramble-y to-do list. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-24621011855935156102014-08-24T21:17:00.000-05:002014-08-26T13:56:10.789-05:00Back to School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The kids started school a few weeks ago- on August 12. Before that, we had gone to take a tour with the principal, met with the counselor on a different day, had "popsicles with the principal" on the playground, had Peter's kindergarten teacher over to our house, and had cookies with kindergarteners on the playground, attended another kindergarten orientation (about bus safety), and went to "meet the teacher." A LOT of Back to School stuff- and much more than I would typically do, but we needed it this year. This summer got to be pretty lonely when things settled here with no friends around to play with. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Benjamin is in third grade this year! He had no fears about starting as the new kid, and just charged onto that bus with the same enthusiasm as he always has. His teacher is Mrs. Huffer, and she seems nice so far. After all that back to school stuff, it's amazing I only met her once, and only very briefly. As far as I can tell, he fits right in. I guess I shouldn't be surprised about that. I think boys are less cliquish in general. Big sigh of relief here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaMTTE5Sqjbo1R4ncGLCWK1_jyRGdvNs5dmK6DYaYmUAnqnS2YjqdYaBpbJsKZlF0hYH_W7fdSZUIGbJxdmkD_xjXesgqzk8j2LaOLZokSkiaYFuyS0MLLjgQ5Gcstt4uWmprlw/s1600/IMG_2646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaMTTE5Sqjbo1R4ncGLCWK1_jyRGdvNs5dmK6DYaYmUAnqnS2YjqdYaBpbJsKZlF0hYH_W7fdSZUIGbJxdmkD_xjXesgqzk8j2LaOLZokSkiaYFuyS0MLLjgQ5Gcstt4uWmprlw/s1600/IMG_2646.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Peter was so ready to start. He left his backpack at the school the previous day while at "meet the teacher," but he wasn't even rattled a bit by having to use a silly little drawstring bag on his first day. The night before, he had carefully laid out his chosen outfit across his rug so he could be all ready. Then he just marched on the bus, not even looking back, and came home happy. He's been like that every day since too! His teacher is Mrs. Jacobs, and she is just as sweet and caring as they come. I feel like I should be mourning for the baby who is gone, and my big boy who has taken his place and is leaving me every day, but he's been ready for a while. And I think I've had enough time to adjust to that.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgHQq-hwVEJjoTOeTKRfJ0sTgFU_pr98iUQ-OZM0_kybPHSn3Zz29VIUHsDtv3Ca93nSp20P3VS8cC-yIMq25Mzf0e5MF_BPfxMjp61y01hbUk6CaroIM-fSsAXKBNaE4v1F0vvg/s1600/IMG_2651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgHQq-hwVEJjoTOeTKRfJ0sTgFU_pr98iUQ-OZM0_kybPHSn3Zz29VIUHsDtv3Ca93nSp20P3VS8cC-yIMq25Mzf0e5MF_BPfxMjp61y01hbUk6CaroIM-fSsAXKBNaE4v1F0vvg/s1600/IMG_2651.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Our bus stop is just on the corner next to our house, and there are four other kids there! We had a family move in right next door to us with two little girls Benjamin and Peter's ages, and they've become best buds. Every day after school, they're just itching to get back out and play with their friends. I've really enjoyed getting to know the other moms at the bus stop too- both of them stay-at-home-moms. We never had that in our old neighborhood, so this feels like a luxury to me!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZg1vonW5_-TASQwlsy2MZDPt1qt4Gt9ivFE3NQkivwg_YIFGfwlZwJj-MhAaAP3Q0v_IXLF7k3K_4Ygy7yCvJf-CYABySbX7x6agbGMmaNNrZ0ETDMsg4-643x9ej6dVpnLw1g/s1600/IMG_2663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyZg1vonW5_-TASQwlsy2MZDPt1qt4Gt9ivFE3NQkivwg_YIFGfwlZwJj-MhAaAP3Q0v_IXLF7k3K_4Ygy7yCvJf-CYABySbX7x6agbGMmaNNrZ0ETDMsg4-643x9ej6dVpnLw1g/s1600/IMG_2663.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
So now it's just us ladies at home every day. Nora is ready to start Joy School this week. She is having fun with Lydia, but I can tell she needs a little more interaction with friends her own age. She really misses Peter.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWnzO9FCIRnfXxR56kOa_SL5SySIA-68GrorDW5WkIORC2eC6iqDyZgdtjcNbsBLggsg-G_xdfod6WgGd4VDkHywMvEuw50DmS73cZC7S7zdm775H7dFHJMGIg_WF6t7f4KNVvQ/s1600/IMG_20140812_142703197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWnzO9FCIRnfXxR56kOa_SL5SySIA-68GrorDW5WkIORC2eC6iqDyZgdtjcNbsBLggsg-G_xdfod6WgGd4VDkHywMvEuw50DmS73cZC7S7zdm775H7dFHJMGIg_WF6t7f4KNVvQ/s1600/IMG_20140812_142703197.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I've had a few people follow up with me after my <a href="http://greenbluebirds.blogspot.com/2013/09/to-school-or-not-to-school.html?m=0">tirade</a> about schooling vs. homeschooling. Honestly, I didn't really consider doing it this school year, although I haven't ruled it out as a possibility in the future (middle school, perhaps?). I'm glad I took the time to study up on alternatives to my children's education, and I'm especially glad to be associated with so many amazing, successful (and real) moms who do homeschool their kids. It's been an eye-opening journey for me, and it was good for me to let go of some of my own prejudices. At least for now, I feel like our kids can do a lot of good being in public school, and learning doesn't have to stop when they come home. And so far, I have only had good feelings about the new school they're at. Hooray for a new school year!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-4308201452960275662014-08-17T22:46:00.003-05:002014-08-17T22:52:23.635-05:00Michelle and Zak's Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While Paul was still in France, I needed to find a way to get to my sister's wedding in Utah. A friend of ours graciously agreed to watch my oldest three for a day and a half so I could just take Lydia on the flight during the overlap between our trips. It was Lydia's first time flying, and she did great that first stretch!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzQON_WU6yBqmAR6tyJcWaa6og8IT-f_nZBr2D0JTYfWh7u3pWtScVV_bNefcGdnblUgmtIxLb-OPWxjwxYBsjXSRckBYQFSiJP3bNSFBRfTWJMQNH6hWxSPvUi7z7pMuRcmqQw/s1600/IMG_20140808_064050175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzQON_WU6yBqmAR6tyJcWaa6og8IT-f_nZBr2D0JTYfWh7u3pWtScVV_bNefcGdnblUgmtIxLb-OPWxjwxYBsjXSRckBYQFSiJP3bNSFBRfTWJMQNH6hWxSPvUi7z7pMuRcmqQw/s1600/IMG_20140808_064050175.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
She even slept for a good chunk of it! I was patting myself on the back for having over-packed my bag of entertainment, but it probably had more to do with the plane being nearly empty and there being lots of room to spread out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvWGUDYnp7NbESur13qj_rKa8MKAMWF8ueqVJ7zva6T7uaEn9ue2M7Ssuy_hS5dU48WVTGu8i6hNnu76ay_V5NzUe5NdkGMNh4l276f9rEf8XMtWplP1XavoGg2yChivEToVQRA/s1600/IMG_20140808_081809921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvWGUDYnp7NbESur13qj_rKa8MKAMWF8ueqVJ7zva6T7uaEn9ue2M7Ssuy_hS5dU48WVTGu8i6hNnu76ay_V5NzUe5NdkGMNh4l276f9rEf8XMtWplP1XavoGg2yChivEToVQRA/s1600/IMG_20140808_081809921.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We were there by 8:30 that morning, so we had the day to help a little with wedding preparations. I spent the morning meeting and getting to know my soon-to-be brother in law, Zak. I also got to have lunch out with my brother, Nathan- because honestly, after that entire trip last month, Cafe Rio never happened- and that needed to be remedied!<br />
My sister Michelle requested that I make her bouquet, which was a little surprising since a) I have zero experience with flowers or arranging them, and b) my Grandma who lives fifteen minutes away from them is a trained florist. Her mother was a florist too, so it's in her blood. Anyways, I agreed as long as I could collaborate with her, and had a marvelous afternoon doing it. She is a jack of all trades, and I love any chance I get to learn from her.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmiMNOMG1MNb0uJbnFlcqrIPgR5Krz_5YlwVgCPvIGcgxRIaLU7NZwHpIrtUnt2kyO_ipXuRYXTXk8wQxTnfaZUeHvpLtoxPDLy1V-rXCDt80XG4NTMrkIzemiIhDWJFObWzRLg/s1600/IMG_20140808_165532011_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmiMNOMG1MNb0uJbnFlcqrIPgR5Krz_5YlwVgCPvIGcgxRIaLU7NZwHpIrtUnt2kyO_ipXuRYXTXk8wQxTnfaZUeHvpLtoxPDLy1V-rXCDt80XG4NTMrkIzemiIhDWJFObWzRLg/s1600/IMG_20140808_165532011_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And here was our finished bouquet! Michelle and I found an inspiration image on Pinterest that we both loved, and went from there. I think it turned out perfectly for the look we wanted. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumbGurLnZ8qzTqG16RBFlYY0m319nvFysEK6UBc6r0yIAR2hDyVn3pUGRMhTH7CfG0WBwr1QbE-cRp8KsjlWbufFSVmg86rgvceVY4K5aAxAxwNFds6H4OyCxdPBfTN1McRHlzA/s1600/IMG_20140808_161446668_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumbGurLnZ8qzTqG16RBFlYY0m319nvFysEK6UBc6r0yIAR2hDyVn3pUGRMhTH7CfG0WBwr1QbE-cRp8KsjlWbufFSVmg86rgvceVY4K5aAxAxwNFds6H4OyCxdPBfTN1McRHlzA/s1600/IMG_20140808_161446668_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Lydia was back at my parents house during all this, and got a few minutes in with just Grandpa.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4s8mOLGUWVun0JpGy1RFi39ZVNBjtbp86sbDeNkCWA_eO4lDvDTb6bsMs7VYaM-cjcJm26DHKFLoTdIxKbVARHIX2GFN70t3ff2Axj3iFqWVDBprEhfwkftboiohnBOmCz2Nug/s1600/IMG_20140808_175258499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4s8mOLGUWVun0JpGy1RFi39ZVNBjtbp86sbDeNkCWA_eO4lDvDTb6bsMs7VYaM-cjcJm26DHKFLoTdIxKbVARHIX2GFN70t3ff2Axj3iFqWVDBprEhfwkftboiohnBOmCz2Nug/s1600/IMG_20140808_175258499.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I think they bonded. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDd8C6SolbVA8v32eR383yYJlZTz71KfcGbWQTAryab-zNHFi1OYeAbedbXhLlfn_DkgjW9bHHDJxcPQy628Gu5vhn9t83p9NkuCRVUnwkmh3Q8rHgzJFXnWOBlR35rtWYvYGCzg/s1600/IMG_20140808_180601655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDd8C6SolbVA8v32eR383yYJlZTz71KfcGbWQTAryab-zNHFi1OYeAbedbXhLlfn_DkgjW9bHHDJxcPQy628Gu5vhn9t83p9NkuCRVUnwkmh3Q8rHgzJFXnWOBlR35rtWYvYGCzg/s1600/IMG_20140808_180601655.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
The next day, we celebrated my brother Nathan's birthday. It was a fun morning with several of my siblings there. <br />
Then we got ready for Michelle's wedding! The ceremony was perfect. I loved being there in the Salt Lake Temple, reliving some of my own memories and being a part of hers. It was nearly ten years ago that Paul and I were married there. How time flies!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Lib2r8lwnKZpdtqVaXM6chhwic4MBE4WKumE1SFVJsN1H38yKVeKKcYapWs08MnkRHl-MK9hZxtTyyaifsOzkqHuqeNT5V4ZjJsNf4-p3XiY0DzQhtgRyELjgMjpd4XoUZoH4g/s1600/IMG_20140809_152803745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Lib2r8lwnKZpdtqVaXM6chhwic4MBE4WKumE1SFVJsN1H38yKVeKKcYapWs08MnkRHl-MK9hZxtTyyaifsOzkqHuqeNT5V4ZjJsNf4-p3XiY0DzQhtgRyELjgMjpd4XoUZoH4g/s1600/IMG_20140809_152803745.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
Michelle and Zak looked radiant! They really do seem good together.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9AllBt1U6J0fp-GEnzhSwfheBtoLzUVF9L5Vbj8vtGx0AiDqmD55bviS0isdfzSa2vEXuN24Vj5lssez6d88OYksuYyQaELqPLtEFs7kVAZ3kGCn65SYBf8VHL4FVGf3P9AFXA/s1600/IMG_20140809_152817895.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9AllBt1U6J0fp-GEnzhSwfheBtoLzUVF9L5Vbj8vtGx0AiDqmD55bviS0isdfzSa2vEXuN24Vj5lssez6d88OYksuYyQaELqPLtEFs7kVAZ3kGCn65SYBf8VHL4FVGf3P9AFXA/s1600/IMG_20140809_152817895.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
The kiddos did great outside the temple during the ceremony with some of my cousins. But while we were taking pictures, Lydia was hard to keep track of. There were something like 87 weddings that day, and she just had a knack for getting lost in the crowds of bridesmaids and photographers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0U8Iii2zwC8a-zqiuuOOVY8U4eUU1jXVURuab28X6Hc9DiUW_RPCWeIQxba-UJcdIK6fLlTbm_FvbbAmU0ruhbKxrwmTNCZv43Zu6o1_d6d78nIT6QZjpfq4anttlUcx_3sZX4g/s1600/IMG_20140809_153101307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0U8Iii2zwC8a-zqiuuOOVY8U4eUU1jXVURuab28X6Hc9DiUW_RPCWeIQxba-UJcdIK6fLlTbm_FvbbAmU0ruhbKxrwmTNCZv43Zu6o1_d6d78nIT6QZjpfq4anttlUcx_3sZX4g/s1600/IMG_20140809_153101307.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We were lucky to have seven of the eight siblings there together. We were only missing Rachel, who unfortunately could not get there. She was in the middle of a move with her young family - from Germany to England, and there was a problem with her visa. We missed her!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYe9wT09KuepodloFmEdSkxjeO6wEb6pvY3xoxs0pJDq9D9Ct50HE4svRiy2tcx5AiLivdR0iulCJDwm5J2rZN71xhUm3ZgpUGXHMALd6V9_uYaDJsXQmMZ6sTpT4zlezfQ3tJg/s1600/IMG_20140809_155923520_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYe9wT09KuepodloFmEdSkxjeO6wEb6pvY3xoxs0pJDq9D9Ct50HE4svRiy2tcx5AiLivdR0iulCJDwm5J2rZN71xhUm3ZgpUGXHMALd6V9_uYaDJsXQmMZ6sTpT4zlezfQ3tJg/s1600/IMG_20140809_155923520_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The reception turned out great. Michelle and Zak even got to spend a good chunk of the evening dancing as they had hoped.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k6qgLDCUln1CpZwbSSKV5Cl7lj7ImpDAcy8MVU0CfqTr69tRghghxOgr6X7_f1ArztFaBDlabNtSIT3rnt3S1EgdBpu71lACTgRGoERX6hC4iGRMHQSPh0RNNpfMFrGefT4P2A/s1600/IMG_20140809_201638711_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k6qgLDCUln1CpZwbSSKV5Cl7lj7ImpDAcy8MVU0CfqTr69tRghghxOgr6X7_f1ArztFaBDlabNtSIT3rnt3S1EgdBpu71lACTgRGoERX6hC4iGRMHQSPh0RNNpfMFrGefT4P2A/s1600/IMG_20140809_201638711_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
I had a marvelous time catching up with lots of family and friends who I hadn't seen in years.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDY8nKbHVj-3jjGXrrVayAu3SS6zdOLK4hldZdkP4WAJK8xjSUjuaOQhsISN0JUueB0c_SyxLIX4oacz6AFVK2kcVcCcyYg8u_uW23iCv51YV1bBtofh2di_eOMhHIGwkFss7CQ/s1600/IMG_20140809_201648053_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDY8nKbHVj-3jjGXrrVayAu3SS6zdOLK4hldZdkP4WAJK8xjSUjuaOQhsISN0JUueB0c_SyxLIX4oacz6AFVK2kcVcCcyYg8u_uW23iCv51YV1bBtofh2di_eOMhHIGwkFss7CQ/s1600/IMG_20140809_201648053_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The centerpieces that I also helped plan (not assemble) turned out really pretty, although I don't have a decent picture of them. We used old vintage books, hydrangeas in wide glass bowls, candles in assorted glass jars and lace layered over linen. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMiSTS5-LcaaWVIhyMn-4E42b_1oo6424aD0ugcxZ_OhjFM8V63slzgdoS7YnohE0EBnBbVt5Ztmq7Wz3xdtAvviXwb5q7fr_aVeqAMqbnb_vPxXZD7mexEJQgsKqq7DQa2S5aQ/s1600/IMG_20140809_210250578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMiSTS5-LcaaWVIhyMn-4E42b_1oo6424aD0ugcxZ_OhjFM8V63slzgdoS7YnohE0EBnBbVt5Ztmq7Wz3xdtAvviXwb5q7fr_aVeqAMqbnb_vPxXZD7mexEJQgsKqq7DQa2S5aQ/s1600/IMG_20140809_210250578.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia was a trooper. She had a looong day, but she made it. She even got to dance with the beautiful bride herself.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNcf2m5_Gkryg-vjn7AsY5RLw7DQJVTpP_3vwL0ihl94AdgaJ3spFsMr-qsaL_TUXnDwMvw7sbFYUfokzhhStR9fvBBE1fAsFZhEriUBHI7W2f-rq48UIAS5tsu4c7e0gfai7GA/s1600/IMG_20140809_205851303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNcf2m5_Gkryg-vjn7AsY5RLw7DQJVTpP_3vwL0ihl94AdgaJ3spFsMr-qsaL_TUXnDwMvw7sbFYUfokzhhStR9fvBBE1fAsFZhEriUBHI7W2f-rq48UIAS5tsu4c7e0gfai7GA/s1600/IMG_20140809_205851303.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
The next day was Sunday, so I got to go to church with my Mom and Dad and two of my brothers- David and Bryan. Lydia had some great bonding time with everyone, I thought. She is so cuddly and affectionate. We also had dinner with Zak's family, and they were really cool. Michelle and Zak will be living near his parents, so it was nice to get to know these people who will be so much a part of her life.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBV_1eDNZeDOppVrsA4rO3lI_p1Unmt7KWXinoldBj7lv36sg-y0DzA4NOFaWmSLlWnlgPaI48ABqrujbSGUAjcDPDSL0wS2A-aa8yBgO_c7UI5X2L5qoytC-6JLlx7hXSHUPKA/s1600/IMG_20140810_125609195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBV_1eDNZeDOppVrsA4rO3lI_p1Unmt7KWXinoldBj7lv36sg-y0DzA4NOFaWmSLlWnlgPaI48ABqrujbSGUAjcDPDSL0wS2A-aa8yBgO_c7UI5X2L5qoytC-6JLlx7hXSHUPKA/s1600/IMG_20140810_125609195.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
That evening, Lydia and I boarded our flight to head home. I'm sure I was a little overly confident after the first flight, but I could not have been prepared for how disastrous it was. First of all, the flight was almost completely full. I counted it a miracle that the middle seat in our row was empty, because I couldn't see any other empty seats anywhere. Unfortunately though, that one extra seat wasn't quite enough for Lydia to spread out like she likes to when she goes to sleep. She spent the first hour and a half just wiggling and thrashing and occasionally screaming- trying to get settled. When she finally did, she only spent about twenty minutes asleep before she woke up SCREAMING from the air pressure (probably coupled with teething pains in her two bottom molars) for maybe an hour. And there was nothing I could do. The lady next to us had been somewhat understanding the entire time, but I could tell she had reached the end of her limit and was crouched into fetal position, eyes closed, plugging her ears. I have never felt so helpless. It was awful. Lydia finally quieted down once we landed, and I apologized profusely to everyone. And then I just cried and cried on the way home from the airport to Paul, who I hadn't seen in over a week. It was a great reunion! ;)<br />
<div>
So other than the flight home, it was a marvelous trip for me. I was so grateful to be there and to witness that special ceremony. Nothing quite like it. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-45081959595604494352014-08-13T12:33:00.000-05:002014-08-13T12:33:01.383-05:00End of Summer Summer is officially over here in St. Louis. The boys (!) are in school, and it's just us girls at home now. And I'm finally catching my breath long enough to write down a little of what we've been up to.<br />
We've been thoroughly enjoying our new house. It's been so nice to have such a big kitchen that can handle art projects and breakfast messes and everything else, especially now that it's hidden away from the front door. I think this new layout is going to relax my parenting style a lot.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQ2X2HySb-vr_W7ML-w-iac7bM0g8UXBAgxtzto8PW4icpM0BINOe6Vn581D_Ix-A3-LxsJiVLEsKnExcMdqRqQiHRPSjraFNX7Nquz5ef3h1Yjj_x_v8MLcqEO16dKcKoM4MfQ/s1600/IMG_20140718_091935332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQ2X2HySb-vr_W7ML-w-iac7bM0g8UXBAgxtzto8PW4icpM0BINOe6Vn581D_Ix-A3-LxsJiVLEsKnExcMdqRqQiHRPSjraFNX7Nquz5ef3h1Yjj_x_v8MLcqEO16dKcKoM4MfQ/s1600/IMG_20140718_091935332.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We've been back to the History Museum a few times. It's funny that this is a recent discovery for us, since we've been living here for seven years now!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk90wopkd4_99WagLQQd7IToqMpByVym0XABP0nHKfk6_S_xYwmr5SgcAZtjaLeMWCbMyMfTnGHe-muBZdkFRG6JZg1Fx1nhxPG70_SViJxQIB87gcjSnjG8HGKjjQOovwTQthsg/s1600/IMG_20140721_145622589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk90wopkd4_99WagLQQd7IToqMpByVym0XABP0nHKfk6_S_xYwmr5SgcAZtjaLeMWCbMyMfTnGHe-muBZdkFRG6JZg1Fx1nhxPG70_SViJxQIB87gcjSnjG8HGKjjQOovwTQthsg/s1600/IMG_20140721_145622589.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Nora is holding the gun, in case you couldn't tell. ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhMjw96h4rtn9UBWH8rXsBl2lejn1ObowvR8mSRPKbxdNOvoutRq_5Zl0uZVldQENXmyvy2bupCV44gFd9ZAljZsdZ8VAIZsAY6XrqOeLlNU97eqHXO1G7O8_IfWhDwrDKOjZjBA/s1600/IMG_20140721_153320492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhMjw96h4rtn9UBWH8rXsBl2lejn1ObowvR8mSRPKbxdNOvoutRq_5Zl0uZVldQENXmyvy2bupCV44gFd9ZAljZsdZ8VAIZsAY6XrqOeLlNU97eqHXO1G7O8_IfWhDwrDKOjZjBA/s1600/IMG_20140721_153320492.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Peter got another loose tooth, and yanked it out on his own the next day. He and Benjamin have the same big open window up top now. I imagine Peter's is going to look like that for a long while, though!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR-l81iMblnK7fLVABAPoqk2AOQEHV-sU6DTvUsw7-NuzKh0a_9MkyYprD3Rbg86cqUVTETLE5Ws2XUIo4OAQTdB76Xn9GROVKU32qT5ttyk3GSK9PApFRlw15PdSQugb3ch7UPw/s1600/IMG_20140722_094118554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR-l81iMblnK7fLVABAPoqk2AOQEHV-sU6DTvUsw7-NuzKh0a_9MkyYprD3Rbg86cqUVTETLE5Ws2XUIo4OAQTdB76Xn9GROVKU32qT5ttyk3GSK9PApFRlw15PdSQugb3ch7UPw/s1600/IMG_20140722_094118554.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
We've been taking lots of walks, mostly in hopes of meeting new friends. I think it's hard moving in the summer, because most people send their kids to camps and swimming lessons, so we rarely saw any kids just playing in their yards.<br />
We finally got new neighbors on one side of our house with girls Benjamin and Peter's ages. They have become great friends already, and play together outside almost non-stop.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vJnJoweB55xpzyv8xGTix7F4jj_lIKMQwvplVP2hzypwOzAnmS1ftiS3AZWNjq_b3gdxL77FqftM7jExTQPqCMLrWcSGCS2xQEIeMHb-70toMRxYMIx5tu21XIgfLnJKX7ligQ/s1600/IMG_20140722_181947348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vJnJoweB55xpzyv8xGTix7F4jj_lIKMQwvplVP2hzypwOzAnmS1ftiS3AZWNjq_b3gdxL77FqftM7jExTQPqCMLrWcSGCS2xQEIeMHb-70toMRxYMIx5tu21XIgfLnJKX7ligQ/s1600/IMG_20140722_181947348.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We decided to take a quick one-day trip up to Nauvoo to see the new British Pageant. First, we went to Carthage Jail.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguo9Llt2vO9laF_hUP3ZEhPQQ1S1umRtur490-9UmRV5OMqvh8cQqvWywZULW7xMEPjoN6hjz5xPGPlrw2TxUAqiisLh4mIOO1tgx0gJTokoQTxsRZDcHh4hUlmbH0AEXyGNjLbg/s1600/IMG_20140725_162438501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguo9Llt2vO9laF_hUP3ZEhPQQ1S1umRtur490-9UmRV5OMqvh8cQqvWywZULW7xMEPjoN6hjz5xPGPlrw2TxUAqiisLh4mIOO1tgx0gJTokoQTxsRZDcHh4hUlmbH0AEXyGNjLbg/s1600/IMG_20140725_162438501.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
We got treats at the local fudge shop.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifK7glqGa-bklj_V3xYrrKP3awA9U6JUqKePdiSL69xr4gGoCELdBAwGDyDens0nGbEkLkyYQ15Rarwq5ATa1Uudrl392Al-sGbVp3TyaKjjFtrBakVLxoiWDAmSAr_4qePqFjbA/s1600/IMG_20140725_183739988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifK7glqGa-bklj_V3xYrrKP3awA9U6JUqKePdiSL69xr4gGoCELdBAwGDyDens0nGbEkLkyYQ15Rarwq5ATa1Uudrl392Al-sGbVp3TyaKjjFtrBakVLxoiWDAmSAr_4qePqFjbA/s1600/IMG_20140725_183739988.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
And we admired the beautiful Nauvoo Temple.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVWJnsqGKolDiQgtf9pG4x8uyJYujEFUDwLmalHijs6F_tXIKvSl9Lgi21S0FrzVN-ZdaCgdWc5kUayRni_thAStoPPY9cat4M3lv-03YUE4qdhdtTSrwNv4cNh4O4_pNeS6Cug/s1600/IMG_20140725_183934537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVWJnsqGKolDiQgtf9pG4x8uyJYujEFUDwLmalHijs6F_tXIKvSl9Lgi21S0FrzVN-ZdaCgdWc5kUayRni_thAStoPPY9cat4M3lv-03YUE4qdhdtTSrwNv4cNh4O4_pNeS6Cug/s1600/IMG_20140725_183934537.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Towards evening, we joined all the activities near the pageant stage, and tried out the handcarts as well as some pioneer crafts and games.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTXhcBwkQ3LsgvD07-ebO4JsVnEiIZkitQpJsOvZonJ_8hcfiF3dayxuW2qZLyXQ7fVMDupnr40IQzKoLZwy307neWf26XPj29Ne40wlTVirFo48EZkL-nX7wYKT0LFXo-i0fxNg/s1600/IMG_20140725_202304333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTXhcBwkQ3LsgvD07-ebO4JsVnEiIZkitQpJsOvZonJ_8hcfiF3dayxuW2qZLyXQ7fVMDupnr40IQzKoLZwy307neWf26XPj29Ne40wlTVirFo48EZkL-nX7wYKT0LFXo-i0fxNg/s1600/IMG_20140725_202304333.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Benjamin was just thrilled to have a group of boys to play baseball with. The pageant itself was excellent! We were all glad we went.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-L_URZ-feL1_hkWWcgRUeXDu01sSHL0Y1NIp9-HmCHyJxU2n__Qs3tpWmZSAdtg4sFIvQ2sJgU9ZkTeQpbV_zEJzcTMmNCLJG52QHf3AMs-lEjMT5kAFYbgxysHYlLo7ziV35QQ/s1600/IMG_20140725_202548245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-L_URZ-feL1_hkWWcgRUeXDu01sSHL0Y1NIp9-HmCHyJxU2n__Qs3tpWmZSAdtg4sFIvQ2sJgU9ZkTeQpbV_zEJzcTMmNCLJG52QHf3AMs-lEjMT5kAFYbgxysHYlLo7ziV35QQ/s1600/IMG_20140725_202548245.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
The next week, we had to say goodbye to Paul for a week while he went to France for a business trip. That's never fun, but we found ways to keep ourselves busy in his absence.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjizVYZ5RYqjrBs4HEld9wPt0wsoy-0OyL6Bhwgr5-Z898Q7csT5SMbQQy4NXXnfGQKBY1zlq3IA2atGtWaWuhykwVRHFnV537ws2QYpJQhZRHztmIq4bm0bGTDKG0km-uloUTw7Q/s1600/IMG_20140722_081007181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjizVYZ5RYqjrBs4HEld9wPt0wsoy-0OyL6Bhwgr5-Z898Q7csT5SMbQQy4NXXnfGQKBY1zlq3IA2atGtWaWuhykwVRHFnV537ws2QYpJQhZRHztmIq4bm0bGTDKG0km-uloUTw7Q/s1600/IMG_20140722_081007181.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I (probably foolishly) took the kids to the pool on my own one evening during half-price hours. The kids had a great time, but for the majority of the time, there was at least one of the kids out of my range of vision. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCjCsZpvdk4bWe49VLn9RhfSlxi7KkT4ZjAEW1gXvSpy8HukxEeXPYtxuTDlqAPwoTFHKdo6F4ek0RLjm15rdYVMi5hbgc4rU1BBPYo_6rmlKmp-gb20nGnZEcgR10liile8pug/s1600/IMG_20140802_182919410_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCjCsZpvdk4bWe49VLn9RhfSlxi7KkT4ZjAEW1gXvSpy8HukxEeXPYtxuTDlqAPwoTFHKdo6F4ek0RLjm15rdYVMi5hbgc4rU1BBPYo_6rmlKmp-gb20nGnZEcgR10liile8pug/s1600/IMG_20140802_182919410_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
But we all made it home together and alive. Success.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB6njxCcHRMFR6yeNg-YLfbDW6kYCcwAzboB5nwb8yrLcCHlf9nEmLtTE6umB_q0vfgecwujIgicCLid2wClH-0G7Zsfdsf-qA44nXzl3IKG4iAy5GDQCIp7edJ5e41ilmpscTpg/s1600/IMG_20140802_192323469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB6njxCcHRMFR6yeNg-YLfbDW6kYCcwAzboB5nwb8yrLcCHlf9nEmLtTE6umB_q0vfgecwujIgicCLid2wClH-0G7Zsfdsf-qA44nXzl3IKG4iAy5GDQCIp7edJ5e41ilmpscTpg/s1600/IMG_20140802_192323469.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
The kids really wanted to go to the Art Museum one last time, so we did. We got a quick picture in front of the anniversary cake. St. Louis is 250 years old this year, and so they put 250 cakes throughout the city to commemorate it. If I had been better about planning, we would have made an effort to go see most of them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3wNiS6M8nVhxQDVCaoZHfFgWr8LAAlI2tl5FdlpKMq3yCkU8mYiwKBL-anJ4j6azesQKLeKg9dNCtfSB4vUFa32G2flWZCUz31-mEKyYLBI60tzCVC8BCTiWTdcnSz3AVmugww/s1600/IMG_20140805_100448278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3wNiS6M8nVhxQDVCaoZHfFgWr8LAAlI2tl5FdlpKMq3yCkU8mYiwKBL-anJ4j6azesQKLeKg9dNCtfSB4vUFa32G2flWZCUz31-mEKyYLBI60tzCVC8BCTiWTdcnSz3AVmugww/s1600/IMG_20140805_100448278.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I really love taking my kids to the Art Museum. We're not the quietest or most well behaved bunch (we're working on it!), but I enjoy teaching them a little of what I'm passionate about.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVHYGXzrRtGctxwzs7pGp5ulnh4ZKw1Bq8oPimG-bQ5SFg6EoWxRQWeCOT9lSUuETZcO7huSnUXlKKAktsQ5e2Lu8Wnv2CqGMUVZRwngv6kxufoVcUJvCnD1ovrwRMOiGbK68wVA/s1600/IMG_20140805_101821411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVHYGXzrRtGctxwzs7pGp5ulnh4ZKw1Bq8oPimG-bQ5SFg6EoWxRQWeCOT9lSUuETZcO7huSnUXlKKAktsQ5e2Lu8Wnv2CqGMUVZRwngv6kxufoVcUJvCnD1ovrwRMOiGbK68wVA/s1600/IMG_20140805_101821411.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia deserves her own post soon. She has turned into quite the character, with the sweetest hugs and giggles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zQlZ9kayJMlyJnqzpDL7QexgIdTCSqZqQtoluk9meeRN3KY6lDl9zYWYY1pxQ9mVpRaRJblm5ZvvIjDkgFcqlnR59QfYsavsNpEefw8rTOvEXOoz3MKhJgJjMEeE60HVznaLxQ/s1600/IMG_20140805_123247404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zQlZ9kayJMlyJnqzpDL7QexgIdTCSqZqQtoluk9meeRN3KY6lDl9zYWYY1pxQ9mVpRaRJblm5ZvvIjDkgFcqlnR59QfYsavsNpEefw8rTOvEXOoz3MKhJgJjMEeE60HVznaLxQ/s1600/IMG_20140805_123247404.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
We were also heavily involved in planning playgroups through church, which was good for me. At least once a week, we'd play with friends either at a park or someone's house or at the church.<br />
We said goodbye to some of our good friends of four years. They moved to Utah through, so we didn't feel like we were saying goodbye forever. It was still sad though, and added to the feeling that we were closing one chapter and beginning a new one.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-1948919280879277922014-07-31T16:51:00.001-05:002014-07-31T19:58:05.007-05:00What Went Where<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I took these pictures a few weeks ago (so there's been some change even since then), but I thought I'd give you an idea of how we're using all of this new found space! Let me tell you, it is marvelous. We essentially have three times the living space with the same amount of stuff, so if the rooms feel sparse- that's why. We're not in any rush to fill it up with stuff, though. My wheels are constantly turning with this giant blank canvas of mine. It's hard to commit to a color palette or specific style though, now that I'm decorating for me and not just for the housing market. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So come on in! Make yourself at home, and while you're here, throw your ideas at me. I'd love to hear them. Coming through the double red doors, you'll come into our foyer. It's fun to have a real foyer. I'd love to do something fun with the walls in here. Something to play off that curved wall.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWNtf9lKOQJxlC3df0tZKMjGr6lWQrXBhKTYCiHZokUJHsFd8Q6CKU6nuoL4yS1JNe-RL1IMC0yoK-ZS7E6rp61__JwJMvVnbwquv59vB7l5pzbH0h84ytc1DzzqWhPlR4xv_Vuw/s1600/IMG_2473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWNtf9lKOQJxlC3df0tZKMjGr6lWQrXBhKTYCiHZokUJHsFd8Q6CKU6nuoL4yS1JNe-RL1IMC0yoK-ZS7E6rp61__JwJMvVnbwquv59vB7l5pzbH0h84ytc1DzzqWhPlR4xv_Vuw/s1600/IMG_2473.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Looking back at the front door, you'll see one of the closets on either side. That rug has been with us since the beginning. We picked it out at Crate and Barrel when we were brand newlyweds with a stack of gift cards. This seemed like the most logical place to put it, since those doors needed something a little bigger than a standard door mat. So, other than for sentimental purposes, this rug doesn't need to stay or define the space. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSa98T2kWOgIBg-ctKugiRE6-5222WLJhzgUviQWbemogqJZMpC757Y_Vfu6CSBQoS40q7wusLrfezPEcNGuOOVOaqfYVGxTnUrnhRr9ArH3PCsQP7WwR99T1RZfhpysVyRgP2Q/s1600/IMG_2476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSa98T2kWOgIBg-ctKugiRE6-5222WLJhzgUviQWbemogqJZMpC757Y_Vfu6CSBQoS40q7wusLrfezPEcNGuOOVOaqfYVGxTnUrnhRr9ArH3PCsQP7WwR99T1RZfhpysVyRgP2Q/s1600/IMG_2476.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
The room to the right of the foyer is where the piles of book boxes still live. I keep debating whether it's worth it to just get some temporary bookshelves in here or not. We have plans for some pretty built-ins along the wall where that old (free to us) couch is sitting. Again, the rug and couch were just carried over from the old basement, and I'm even less attached to them as I am to our red foyer rug.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAjgllhyYx5mtcb51kFJdH2ErVLWS1G2RBfHBhwBvik9s71G0z5PY8IeMilnMu19cGzAPTRpquBd0XazbzvbulU0VfiYZOAntP1wcTAKcB8Vg4Ywe28RI6rC3W5Kg7jQN-qQrA2g/s1600/IMG_2470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAjgllhyYx5mtcb51kFJdH2ErVLWS1G2RBfHBhwBvik9s71G0z5PY8IeMilnMu19cGzAPTRpquBd0XazbzvbulU0VfiYZOAntP1wcTAKcB8Vg4Ywe28RI6rC3W5Kg7jQN-qQrA2g/s1600/IMG_2470.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
There's no overhead lighting (in here or in the family room), so we'll need to add some. Turning around in the room, you can see where the piano ended up, and the family room behind it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-_qNc3gHsctfn3wMTyGnljGHjg-YqbEShCQMxSJUms1O9fbhByrPBoMPnXxhnY_FyOViEHuqnWdjtVpMoxYRQ49pXS7sxIdzeVj-Fyj5geCpgAzQ6aJ0Epfn3YdzaCa70lgvTw/s1600/IMG_2468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-_qNc3gHsctfn3wMTyGnljGHjg-YqbEShCQMxSJUms1O9fbhByrPBoMPnXxhnY_FyOViEHuqnWdjtVpMoxYRQ49pXS7sxIdzeVj-Fyj5geCpgAzQ6aJ0Epfn3YdzaCa70lgvTw/s1600/IMG_2468.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Walking back through the foyer, you can see the other closet and part of the dining room.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLIRXi3gIEMycmlEkZUPPHsWWQUeT_JhPOQbR48JIOjDw3rQ2Jcds3EO4PpGdT0nCPJ9XAoea6HT6p85jmJhUFiaDZ9h0zH226z29aLb6IBHK4KnJzSv-wB0MZgJQzTZA_GQknw/s1600/IMG_2477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLIRXi3gIEMycmlEkZUPPHsWWQUeT_JhPOQbR48JIOjDw3rQ2Jcds3EO4PpGdT0nCPJ9XAoea6HT6p85jmJhUFiaDZ9h0zH226z29aLb6IBHK4KnJzSv-wB0MZgJQzTZA_GQknw/s1600/IMG_2477.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
This is where our table and chairs ended up. I never thought I'd need a formal dining room, but we've already used it a lot. Whenever friends come over, we eat in here and let the kids take over the kitchen. I'd love to add some architecture to the walls, and at least one sideboard.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxYj2N_26CmuwMGX7HGmP-hTml4Behm4zwucZWhT79r17ibpV0zehFv_0DdbwVlDWU9w8JcmcWd7LKZ1D-5upbAvIIDVeFKls2-QqHZmInMi83raXV1idQAoMLTUpqR8-yaOK8w/s1600/IMG_2475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxYj2N_26CmuwMGX7HGmP-hTml4Behm4zwucZWhT79r17ibpV0zehFv_0DdbwVlDWU9w8JcmcWd7LKZ1D-5upbAvIIDVeFKls2-QqHZmInMi83raXV1idQAoMLTUpqR8-yaOK8w/s1600/IMG_2475.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Coming back over to the front room of boxes, you can head back into the family room. (are you starting to notice how this color is in EVERY room? I'm not kidding. I found two giant buckets of leftover paint in the garage. What I find interesting is how differently it reads, room to room. I can't tell you how much I'm itching to paint over it. Probably gray in here, with natural wood-looking beams.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNsFpkkoxKxlNokOlLFwh13mrjarl44X3MhHV_uwQBnKikOqUhi7dpm2V-Y96iCuMv03YoVMBjIxTyI7hjllrBt8FzeNRMSOTBhejgrdTdkrK8jrHyZZAj7anK5whiCd6be3lw2g/s1600/IMG_2531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNsFpkkoxKxlNokOlLFwh13mrjarl44X3MhHV_uwQBnKikOqUhi7dpm2V-Y96iCuMv03YoVMBjIxTyI7hjllrBt8FzeNRMSOTBhejgrdTdkrK8jrHyZZAj7anK5whiCd6be3lw2g/s1600/IMG_2531.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You can also come in here through the foyer and the kitchen, where you see the back of the sectional. I haven't figured out the best layout in here, but for now, this works. Although the once-giant rug is almost too small for this space. This room is huge!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiei6YjHGzLNu-ftkUA1ubSydskg0z_IS596p_PZNrIFcvfTkkATp7qPzH93j54O6jEV2kIbETgjLcSa1UfSeIDItIGEYPGYBIbt0di8Eq9bIqd52FBAl-wX9atRjCXZ5hAfkRNFg/s1600/IMG_2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiei6YjHGzLNu-ftkUA1ubSydskg0z_IS596p_PZNrIFcvfTkkATp7qPzH93j54O6jEV2kIbETgjLcSa1UfSeIDItIGEYPGYBIbt0di8Eq9bIqd52FBAl-wX9atRjCXZ5hAfkRNFg/s1600/IMG_2529.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
And the lovely wet bar, that houses all the homeless artwork and games. I can't bring myself to hang any artwork until I settle on the look I want for each room.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRJ8_JKXpd7AQgPoZbUbqB-SfSduFOiIuDajG4njmNLzIeCpxKm93crXys_IWuUoidsvMJ54AvsZ-9bthtoZJK3lKSM4Ri6DQXqBcrpquq5HS6OZLL0jwBIVRLxFepf2ohi_IEQ/s1600/IMG_2532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRJ8_JKXpd7AQgPoZbUbqB-SfSduFOiIuDajG4njmNLzIeCpxKm93crXys_IWuUoidsvMJ54AvsZ-9bthtoZJK3lKSM4Ri6DQXqBcrpquq5HS6OZLL0jwBIVRLxFepf2ohi_IEQ/s1600/IMG_2532.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Coming into the kitchen from the family room, here's what you see. We got a free second hand table from a family who just moved, but I'm already itching to replace it. It's seen better days, and the leg keeps falling off. The shape is right though. I wouldn't do anything much bigger. The mismatched chairs are also temporarily borrowed from other rooms. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6O-eQ-oSYiv-Uy0IAKWKjxigPU-Fmitv4Zry_EMe7IL6nPl3yQICIxrOAMTTozPYwNQip7U9bLIGTn_y5TRiSen5BCwEwBsObFKLFGtmBeanpsmwXZhc8ThTu-DhrguT-owVXXA/s1600/IMG_2534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6O-eQ-oSYiv-Uy0IAKWKjxigPU-Fmitv4Zry_EMe7IL6nPl3yQICIxrOAMTTozPYwNQip7U9bLIGTn_y5TRiSen5BCwEwBsObFKLFGtmBeanpsmwXZhc8ThTu-DhrguT-owVXXA/s1600/IMG_2534.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I decided to go with a white fridge so it would blend in better with the cabinetry on this side, and had to wait a week to get it as a result. I'm also loving my new washer and dryer right there. I wish I could say it's solved all of my bad laundry habits, but I'd be lying. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWRtKOt4NtYaurZJCXpJ6-uTdqg_BOwvMEYM7MuWNzCavggCEEBOJLMKXh7pyl0WRHBYi56yaJM7ABjKKiB7cow-HrUxpmxFhuNXdcJBLaVU3p2pvJxCH5kq7wBq7HMGJFJPQlQ/s1600/IMG_2535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWRtKOt4NtYaurZJCXpJ6-uTdqg_BOwvMEYM7MuWNzCavggCEEBOJLMKXh7pyl0WRHBYi56yaJM7ABjKKiB7cow-HrUxpmxFhuNXdcJBLaVU3p2pvJxCH5kq7wBq7HMGJFJPQlQ/s1600/IMG_2535.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When you go upstairs, the first bedroom on your left is Lydia's room. This has worked really well for the overall flow to have her right there, near our room and closest to the downstairs. I've added another bookshelf and some artwork in here since this was taken. This may be the one room in the house where the wall color doesn't bother me, so it might stay as it is.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT32QeKBuABBqFjoERWJyWcS_Km3SdY1hCMLcwa00xohfHQmWWvRCJOWRT1hCqNzCgjyKz8JslhyK9I3BXyDZoxfsWEuwHda4cbbOuS4w55Pu2cprvXU12mT-jsrxmQqOYSlD1Ug/s1600/IMG_2478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT32QeKBuABBqFjoERWJyWcS_Km3SdY1hCMLcwa00xohfHQmWWvRCJOWRT1hCqNzCgjyKz8JslhyK9I3BXyDZoxfsWEuwHda4cbbOuS4w55Pu2cprvXU12mT-jsrxmQqOYSlD1Ug/s1600/IMG_2478.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Right next to Lydia's room is Nora's room, which is also slowly evolving. She no longer has that desk, which came from the same friend who gave us the kitchen table. The set also has two dressers, which now live in here. They'll be really cute once I paint them. For now though, this may be the ugliest room in the house with the clashing wall color and yellowish furniture. The sheer curtains are also just a temporary fix. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpeW46PqZSlnitYTwNWUnIaJZsB8QWLpzVEWoPoQTUdG8p5_44lLVtDjgy7I3VfAmNGGf_cDcrI9VDRdXngXkO5_edt7hwGsveq_o8zgjYruRvdvDPw2XixuKX2DGgkI7-K4bW8g/s1600/IMG_2519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpeW46PqZSlnitYTwNWUnIaJZsB8QWLpzVEWoPoQTUdG8p5_44lLVtDjgy7I3VfAmNGGf_cDcrI9VDRdXngXkO5_edt7hwGsveq_o8zgjYruRvdvDPw2XixuKX2DGgkI7-K4bW8g/s1600/IMG_2519.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next to Nora's room is our room, which is great. I love not having five awkwardly placed windows to work around. We've put a new bookshelf and dresser in here, so it's really starting to feel livable. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNIHFIWFsyZ4NSnw3yHveRvPX8i2FnfMtV6Buc1zpezbNL0riVAL7zPsLDBWH86iZSsBYqjynASWWmHykMOFgbQDYPqVA4w2UPptG9WFID9VzUxo6Uy6o3DNLuUEbmbTHBIX8rQ/s1600/IMG_2487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNIHFIWFsyZ4NSnw3yHveRvPX8i2FnfMtV6Buc1zpezbNL0riVAL7zPsLDBWH86iZSsBYqjynASWWmHykMOFgbQDYPqVA4w2UPptG9WFID9VzUxo6Uy6o3DNLuUEbmbTHBIX8rQ/s1600/IMG_2487.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's the master bathroom. It has SO much storage, and even a vanity. I'm in heaven. Did I mention I don't have to share a bathroom with four kids anymore?! Luxury right here. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKxQRaojL12pl73KSQ85eHzCUOG2eZgOzNDRZ9l0q6dsA4JjxDT3pPnFHiX7d56WfALhFXLcJQ8J3kbRlyBLiOMp_uUQYARiZd870f9vJsTOeyV3zT5m7Sh9D14lDXX3oLAhvhg/s1600/IMG_2492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKxQRaojL12pl73KSQ85eHzCUOG2eZgOzNDRZ9l0q6dsA4JjxDT3pPnFHiX7d56WfALhFXLcJQ8J3kbRlyBLiOMp_uUQYARiZd870f9vJsTOeyV3zT5m7Sh9D14lDXX3oLAhvhg/s1600/IMG_2492.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Coming down the hallway from our bedroom, the first doorway on your right is the boys' bathroom. It's neutral and updated, and great. I may hang some artwork in here and call it a day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAyzuWaA0gBSbKpEqN_eNZaItfMnmOfx2zsEbarDEtZZp8x5MXpgdB6Vp6nOSpF4fLu5rGYIXaD-rMVbHacfAiOFi1DI_VzOvOWXR-hm4-IljdRLgfVzYQALQT_VE-wF_6821yEw/s1600/IMG_2485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAyzuWaA0gBSbKpEqN_eNZaItfMnmOfx2zsEbarDEtZZp8x5MXpgdB6Vp6nOSpF4fLu5rGYIXaD-rMVbHacfAiOFi1DI_VzOvOWXR-hm4-IljdRLgfVzYQALQT_VE-wF_6821yEw/s1600/IMG_2485.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The girl's bathroom is the doorway right next to it, and it's got a little more work before I'm satisfied. I'm thinking of painting the tub tile in wide horizontal stripes right now- white and black. I might paint the vanity black and paint the walls something that compliments the green tub a little better. Right now, it just hurts my eyes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwyV8S6jB8NxXd4CRRhj0SKEtMLihyphenhyphen_bc3un0v0CmGt9LfRothdQ1_F-yd_guDaNkzpEe1-qeh6qRJxh1AwgYE6Hx_oYqtim0ETZsDc_nY5c5SwT-C2Ns3MSFWf7qKtstBN3dcQ/s1600/IMG_2484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwyV8S6jB8NxXd4CRRhj0SKEtMLihyphenhyphen_bc3un0v0CmGt9LfRothdQ1_F-yd_guDaNkzpEe1-qeh6qRJxh1AwgYE6Hx_oYqtim0ETZsDc_nY5c5SwT-C2Ns3MSFWf7qKtstBN3dcQ/s1600/IMG_2484.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Benjamin's room is right next to the girls' bathroom, and has two giant windows that look out into the backyard. He chose this room specifically though because...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSTFSHOnR9NMKKG3JzgbBKPSkijEyiRtHcE9QTy0KQRVaT4fHuafnnWQo02yFDCTI10r4xTwVBYNupbWAD44m4BzoiCmqRbjOSooXE0wf10or0CqlK5_7-b2_1wK52Or5w1RFBw/s1600/IMG_2499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSTFSHOnR9NMKKG3JzgbBKPSkijEyiRtHcE9QTy0KQRVaT4fHuafnnWQo02yFDCTI10r4xTwVBYNupbWAD44m4BzoiCmqRbjOSooXE0wf10or0CqlK5_7-b2_1wK52Or5w1RFBw/s1600/IMG_2499.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
...it has two glass shelf closets. :) Yeah, these aren't staying. First of all, he has no where to store his things, and second of all, they're GLASS. Moving on!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOc75zX_IZt8JUOychEBiCTz4JYmzFMQTJXtAS26gmaXGZidEV-KOFfgWKetTQKxmQthR7wy2obW14_APwCR4FLnBPax2iaTMyWsWg2Wtm6kC6CgczREzEjB0hOg_jhuz63FnnA/s1600/IMG_2509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOc75zX_IZt8JUOychEBiCTz4JYmzFMQTJXtAS26gmaXGZidEV-KOFfgWKetTQKxmQthR7wy2obW14_APwCR4FLnBPax2iaTMyWsWg2Wtm6kC6CgczREzEjB0hOg_jhuz63FnnA/s1600/IMG_2509.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Peter's room is next to Benjamin's. I can't tell you how good it makes me feel to see him in his own space. He's no longer the little brother in the bottom bunk bending to Benjamin's will. He and Benjamin seem to be becoming better friends too with a little extra space between them. They're always off on bike rides or playing in the woods or playing games together. So for all my worrying about putting a chasm between them with a physical wall, it's worked out really well- at least so far!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-PFuofHssetIc4XDX7-ds4TjLbriqQdTHxh3k5B9XLHjApcl9OsS6RCsmsYHz9kCf3vsXAqAl6jmxQsEU9AyhpDU_tEyD5tAV-38_gg7LpmmYRaqifz8lM3OpCdxwGtJo25rYg/s1600/IMG_2539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-PFuofHssetIc4XDX7-ds4TjLbriqQdTHxh3k5B9XLHjApcl9OsS6RCsmsYHz9kCf3vsXAqAl6jmxQsEU9AyhpDU_tEyD5tAV-38_gg7LpmmYRaqifz8lM3OpCdxwGtJo25rYg/s1600/IMG_2539.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Next to Peter's room is the "guest room," which will eventually have a bed and a few less random toys in it. :) It also has my sewing machine and craft supplies in the closet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM4DWu2-9K9Octzew-zE3bc4g17LEd-79EdgCfGOTbsUVd13uG0Cy0l2rqeWF4HCGyWZoMPnRyOCt-gPQhZgdIpb9TtrAbMiUyLhXFzLr2_9Ojyg2hZ0e98wjM1SG736JnzZ3lAw/s1600/IMG_2526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM4DWu2-9K9Octzew-zE3bc4g17LEd-79EdgCfGOTbsUVd13uG0Cy0l2rqeWF4HCGyWZoMPnRyOCt-gPQhZgdIpb9TtrAbMiUyLhXFzLr2_9Ojyg2hZ0e98wjM1SG736JnzZ3lAw/s1600/IMG_2526.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
So there you have it! I didn't take any pictures of the basement, since we never go down there anyways. But if you picture concrete walls and lots of empty boxes, you wouldn't be too far off.<br />
I know the best strategy is to tackle room by room, so I'm trying to decide where to start. Probably the family room or the foyer. I'll keep you all posted!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-1639326470615105232014-07-26T20:57:00.001-05:002014-07-26T21:41:52.352-05:00My Nora is FourFour years ago, I held my first daughter in my arms for the first time. It was a completely different experience, almost like being a mother for the first time again, but without all the insecurities. Nora has been such a sweet, calming influence in our family from the moment she joined us.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGC_xZZUNj2NdnaMfCdmMoao7BFPVazWS-G3Oz2G7xZL0ky0jg8fWLbiYbnyyriSP5lpqnT75txGZoVE8SCQ1h57iR9iGjNKwG70ShpXHRdBqOYloutPjKlY0hzk9Pj7BeQv9DTw/s1600/DSCN1546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGC_xZZUNj2NdnaMfCdmMoao7BFPVazWS-G3Oz2G7xZL0ky0jg8fWLbiYbnyyriSP5lpqnT75txGZoVE8SCQ1h57iR9iGjNKwG70ShpXHRdBqOYloutPjKlY0hzk9Pj7BeQv9DTw/s1600/DSCN1546.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I keep telling her she can't grow up because I won't let her. I just want to bottle her up and keep her as she is forever. When I told her I might just put three candles on her cake so she'd have to stay three, she was indignant. Instead, she told me, there would be twelve candles on her cake. Yeah, right! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZPJHPFJlCnhgpYgJX2koqXfzJteY0SzkBst9Fkm0CqvUTPRMWO72P4qtzr1gb5xutfOWUS0tEbd_Y698B1IUAcZpt5MmnXFWIuGU9bxDPb06P1OiuAnuPWtsGCZZuxrXmaec2g/s1600/IMG_20140725_192750605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZPJHPFJlCnhgpYgJX2koqXfzJteY0SzkBst9Fkm0CqvUTPRMWO72P4qtzr1gb5xutfOWUS0tEbd_Y698B1IUAcZpt5MmnXFWIuGU9bxDPb06P1OiuAnuPWtsGCZZuxrXmaec2g/s1600/IMG_20140725_192750605.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
Nora is always ready to go- anytime, anywhere. When we were planning our trip to Utah, we didn't even think about the fact that we'd be traveling home on her birthday. I feel so bad about it now, but she just went with it and had no expectations for the day, other than spending all of it in the car watching a few new movies and eating junk food.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-XEzc9RsS0Rz1AVCGGXZ8lZtyPoF7-Q2eJAWmZk-qhxXC996xNvHBl80Buu7EW7zMAUsQyrbghKcF2q0lcxvVXcB6-1dkkm48jPAeaJyeVOdg1FZTRXNayUP80TqKO0lnrwMQOA/s1600/IMG_20140712_062729138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-XEzc9RsS0Rz1AVCGGXZ8lZtyPoF7-Q2eJAWmZk-qhxXC996xNvHBl80Buu7EW7zMAUsQyrbghKcF2q0lcxvVXcB6-1dkkm48jPAeaJyeVOdg1FZTRXNayUP80TqKO0lnrwMQOA/s1600/IMG_20140712_062729138.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The next day after getting back, we had a pretty low-key day of presents (Elsa was the predominant theme this year, naturally).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlawxO0WSljqCr1J70x0mwvIJm-bEjZkL8qzIRjf3QcHtuZftW8Tczl2FThO5L_YhgPhL-sp-6jdNfYiyYb6UKNJiQej1Wn6Xfq8GPPyx-sy89Xmm67sjjlzErvn5nMUd5aMdQA/s1600/IMG_2454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlawxO0WSljqCr1J70x0mwvIJm-bEjZkL8qzIRjf3QcHtuZftW8Tczl2FThO5L_YhgPhL-sp-6jdNfYiyYb6UKNJiQej1Wn6Xfq8GPPyx-sy89Xmm67sjjlzErvn5nMUd5aMdQA/s1600/IMG_2454.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
And because it was an ordeal to even get to the store to buy milk (we were out of pretty much everything when we got home) before I could make a cake, that didn't happen either.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFwpiXadn9DWBfgF4HXgvhXtTzTx38rHD5cKVyNbRnN4q82FjR3QlBtI7GbP9PIKH-c9UrHo4zFI6h849w59wtq8loFd7H81VGzgfUTHK7oK9nrU1Wbriw7zdNhZiIBaq8Nkkyag/s1600/IMG_20140714_201033_888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFwpiXadn9DWBfgF4HXgvhXtTzTx38rHD5cKVyNbRnN4q82FjR3QlBtI7GbP9PIKH-c9UrHo4zFI6h849w59wtq8loFd7H81VGzgfUTHK7oK9nrU1Wbriw7zdNhZiIBaq8Nkkyag/s1600/IMG_20140714_201033_888.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
So instead of the promised princess castle cake, she picked one out from Coldstone. You can tell she wasn't over the moon about it. ;) Sometimes I think I take for granted how easy this girl is.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRk5AdyPXtfhZ_NUNPJ1tikchPZ_kxZL4ktHJuh5m-Vp7ZnoqXyUXX4B5jAoj3dnue9JP6dyOMoe1klURV_MVtMhmT3UXQ3leQ5UxVtlIZNYEanbFkLNIFEApJ9PcHTjM_ACzIA/s1600/IMG_20140714_201147424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRk5AdyPXtfhZ_NUNPJ1tikchPZ_kxZL4ktHJuh5m-Vp7ZnoqXyUXX4B5jAoj3dnue9JP6dyOMoe1klURV_MVtMhmT3UXQ3leQ5UxVtlIZNYEanbFkLNIFEApJ9PcHTjM_ACzIA/s1600/IMG_20140714_201147424.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Nora is a little shy around new people, but also extremely social. She is delicate and feminine, but also loves digging up worms and playing ninjas with the boys. She is very refined and poised, but she's also earned the title as the "aggressive cuddler" of our family. She loves anything fancy- I think the 'Fancy Nancy' books could have easily been written about her. She is spunky and silly, but obedient to the extreme. She hates to be in trouble for anything, and will slink away to her room, quietly sobbing if she feels like I'm mad at her for any reason. She is good natured, forgiving, and easy to delight. She has a strange obsession with blood, and gets visibly excited whenever someone gets hurt. She even stopped crying after getting hurt recently, when she realized she was bleeding. I think a profession in the medical field may be in her future.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0Pkh4iwCKSyc9gu9V9mGibzqqSdcinbzeVrX-B5r5Mco3bdlY2xh-0Ptvsqs9bghCJfO5RIROdq4YdiUEt2xrevlCyvE1qf6z1JTxMmcDCeUOkJhgQzNTnWA8C3jzjjaklUlhw/s1600/IMG_20140708_162605_611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0Pkh4iwCKSyc9gu9V9mGibzqqSdcinbzeVrX-B5r5Mco3bdlY2xh-0Ptvsqs9bghCJfO5RIROdq4YdiUEt2xrevlCyvE1qf6z1JTxMmcDCeUOkJhgQzNTnWA8C3jzjjaklUlhw/s1600/IMG_20140708_162605_611.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
It sometimes shocks me how <i>not</i> little she is anymore. She is a chatty girl, and talks to me incessantly with her high-pitched, little girl voice. I'll admit I tune her out sometimes, mainly because I get busy or I like to live in the solitude of my own thoughts. But when I do listen, I hear her fascinating insights and ideas. She knows way more than I generally give her credit. <br />
If having children just like you is karma, then I certainly don't deserve this one. I'm a lucky mama to have her. And as much as I hate to see her grow, I am excited to watch her become the woman she came here to be.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-92098542334836417322014-07-24T20:37:00.001-05:002014-07-25T07:50:36.476-05:00Utah Trip: The End<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The last part of the trip was mostly spent decompressing. We had a few things that we did with just our family, but we also spent a fair amount of time just relaxing with whoever was still around. We met up with my brother in Provo. He knows all the good Mexican joints, and took us to one in downtown Provo. My burrito was the size of a small infant, but I easily ate the entire thing....and the chips and guacamole. It was so good! And I still haven't found anything in St. Louis to compare...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPG5twRICrhVPyxzI535brykbDCGuOIGFSrnTD-VVnMlyr74SjXG1na5j0Dw_pYxl5P9r21OVchMVEKO6zUaBUzs7PF1GGvEEl_67GOQGEvaMewB2rnOrMklKeFwjkMfOGhuszpw/s1600/IMG_20140707_132038062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPG5twRICrhVPyxzI535brykbDCGuOIGFSrnTD-VVnMlyr74SjXG1na5j0Dw_pYxl5P9r21OVchMVEKO6zUaBUzs7PF1GGvEEl_67GOQGEvaMewB2rnOrMklKeFwjkMfOGhuszpw/s1600/IMG_20140707_132038062.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We also checked out the newly refurbished Bean Museum while we were there. It has come a long way from the musty room full of taxidermy! It looks like a legitimate museum now! I was impressed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyb8hzgU7fgWPaNtU8DK2te5SoXLqzvaEIWG2BwJOHsaKYqkUOO7bP7ZY_iRhq9hfh2zGr0dyY5dkOIjMYwA1nNvbNkwYw3f6HdRTM2NiuVAs6uIS8mqq8oI_-rLmnyKEZIX-aog/s1600/IMG_20140707_140734120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyb8hzgU7fgWPaNtU8DK2te5SoXLqzvaEIWG2BwJOHsaKYqkUOO7bP7ZY_iRhq9hfh2zGr0dyY5dkOIjMYwA1nNvbNkwYw3f6HdRTM2NiuVAs6uIS8mqq8oI_-rLmnyKEZIX-aog/s1600/IMG_20140707_140734120.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
We took the kids to BYU one of the days. We saw the Museum of Art, the Fine Arts Museum, the enormous kids section at the library (they were duly impressed), and of course the Wilkinson Center, where we let them pick out shirts. Got to start them early! ;) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUGD9S00P1PDdwKf2jdzKUyMh7ZXMt-m0qCPcFzcM8fuvyct0N2ZIKKOY8QNekVvqq-nbs8OazoQUz32GrQHKzrHAakr7Z7o_5-lcbudvYMHWNWmmpvYFm5x3lszE08z3LS5F6w/s1600/IMG_20140709_120034151_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUGD9S00P1PDdwKf2jdzKUyMh7ZXMt-m0qCPcFzcM8fuvyct0N2ZIKKOY8QNekVvqq-nbs8OazoQUz32GrQHKzrHAakr7Z7o_5-lcbudvYMHWNWmmpvYFm5x3lszE08z3LS5F6w/s1600/IMG_20140709_120034151_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The kids went bouldering one of the days with Paul. I'm not sure this was the intended hike, but the boys found a way up, with the dads scrambling up after them. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmV3oUX-5mbneeJSFWiCSv2U2M14_oFChKGhvUM9248V-g3CXjvsJMyqmsqaVjtkMQmk8FoGnkpchto_3pOqp1FrKI6593GQPmHFXatCQYw3RrPCF3nRnn6dv2y2kiPS8asGYwg/s1600/IMG_20140710_113749_788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmV3oUX-5mbneeJSFWiCSv2U2M14_oFChKGhvUM9248V-g3CXjvsJMyqmsqaVjtkMQmk8FoGnkpchto_3pOqp1FrKI6593GQPmHFXatCQYw3RrPCF3nRnn6dv2y2kiPS8asGYwg/s1600/IMG_20140710_113749_788.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOvBIJYh3ob8lsy0PhiqYrSb3DrlNtADCP1SlO-6l1lwQ47kor_NR-JH0TZLIiQ6bHGoF-8RvNC4J9bhmpXgqDJ19p0SD6LXtgNiodABNvx94bkMtQWC5aknVL4tNl1lFWS31-aA/s1600/IMG_20140710_113004_980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOvBIJYh3ob8lsy0PhiqYrSb3DrlNtADCP1SlO-6l1lwQ47kor_NR-JH0TZLIiQ6bHGoF-8RvNC4J9bhmpXgqDJ19p0SD6LXtgNiodABNvx94bkMtQWC5aknVL4tNl1lFWS31-aA/s1600/IMG_20140710_113004_980.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We took the ski lift up near Sundance. There are no seat belts, just a metal bar across your lap, so Lydia had us in a panic the entire ride up. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqaLU94n-OQ2mvOX9eO-RfatuMkugwj4WuVdfB670Zz98koNUerYR1LI4CZy1OeRXVh_M-qFN1EEGBhtecKgwEVTFVthSS14bpkxsBK3-QNr2DMO-5Skx5REK2QMqlRt2mN2I4w/s1600/IMG_20140708_154547_190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqaLU94n-OQ2mvOX9eO-RfatuMkugwj4WuVdfB670Zz98koNUerYR1LI4CZy1OeRXVh_M-qFN1EEGBhtecKgwEVTFVthSS14bpkxsBK3-QNr2DMO-5Skx5REK2QMqlRt2mN2I4w/s1600/IMG_20140708_154547_190.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She really enjoyed herself though!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixYew_VL8h77BBX9wKC7xieiz-mmxV0VdX4f3U81pkFX1c9INcuPWPxumqr24VM0hVHa5s-DofdU4dYu_FlYx8gQ2I42syLZpQ4HlUi2oYGJxzPDv2kUNA2B27597uGUxBbhH-Q/s1600/IMG_20140708_155154_995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixYew_VL8h77BBX9wKC7xieiz-mmxV0VdX4f3U81pkFX1c9INcuPWPxumqr24VM0hVHa5s-DofdU4dYu_FlYx8gQ2I42syLZpQ4HlUi2oYGJxzPDv2kUNA2B27597uGUxBbhH-Q/s1600/IMG_20140708_155154_995.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The older (and more prepared kids who packed hats/sunscreen) hiked further up to the top of the peak. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKzqGbjrDD4gJqE3pI0nlCUq-iZvT77x4ia0jn-WiVTJkKPoUnK1OwcHwZht4wg457WWDSz3OaLilrvZ3xk_r91faXd-7QQcMM1_La51W_EDA_2C-DuPpzxUOALp5wnVsDzmrRTA/s1600/IMG_20140708_163055_255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKzqGbjrDD4gJqE3pI0nlCUq-iZvT77x4ia0jn-WiVTJkKPoUnK1OwcHwZht4wg457WWDSz3OaLilrvZ3xk_r91faXd-7QQcMM1_La51W_EDA_2C-DuPpzxUOALp5wnVsDzmrRTA/s1600/IMG_20140708_163055_255.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We visited some friends, and Paul's brother's family in Daybreak. We also sent Benjamin off with Grandma and Grandpa and his cousin Andrew for a fun day out. They're doing this special outing with all of their grandkids when they turn eight, which I think is a great idea! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We finally said goodbye to those who were still around, and packed up the car.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGaWIvVWTsgJy3KSLVNA9xEz8bt1qfwg1LVo-lZBKEQLWsl4Xjb20O5SMzkrEUSf5YBYd2Hd2t5IA2J3bA8Jsv4WO25UUyZcNcKcAYazsVT1DytDTGVdrhXLchCnj53aDDFtd-gw/s1600/IMG_20140711_082951698_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGaWIvVWTsgJy3KSLVNA9xEz8bt1qfwg1LVo-lZBKEQLWsl4Xjb20O5SMzkrEUSf5YBYd2Hd2t5IA2J3bA8Jsv4WO25UUyZcNcKcAYazsVT1DytDTGVdrhXLchCnj53aDDFtd-gw/s1600/IMG_20140711_082951698_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisksRW7Lwc3H1JoYc14wYKzAPJjX7C1hq61BQoIlH58aXDeNQTCRDyxEz_CaUyuEwuGWN6XYv5pP_2T7b46MlqCekC9CbVb_lLSYMJgXycDq_QL4WaZ___hLCgEJOd3E56L08wpA/s1600/IMG_20140711_083025312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisksRW7Lwc3H1JoYc14wYKzAPJjX7C1hq61BQoIlH58aXDeNQTCRDyxEz_CaUyuEwuGWN6XYv5pP_2T7b46MlqCekC9CbVb_lLSYMJgXycDq_QL4WaZ___hLCgEJOd3E56L08wpA/s1600/IMG_20140711_083025312.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We headed south to Goblin Valley, and got there in the middle of the day. It was really hot, but well worth the effort! It is such a cool place! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPAFJB6tSbzPxrRV1ER7zUPNUxQJw_lrNOXKByU3UgEbK3mf0kAHO6dc493USNTojlNYlwIr4Avk7iV4-mPa2TwYv7dyP0a91Fz76vQDmsrxa9YfER_civN-XlJ8w5jHPCMqeU9Q/s1600/IMG_20140711_132713257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPAFJB6tSbzPxrRV1ER7zUPNUxQJw_lrNOXKByU3UgEbK3mf0kAHO6dc493USNTojlNYlwIr4Avk7iV4-mPa2TwYv7dyP0a91Fz76vQDmsrxa9YfER_civN-XlJ8w5jHPCMqeU9Q/s1600/IMG_20140711_132713257.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The rest of these were taken with my good camera. I need to be better about pulling it out all the time, because the quality difference is seriously night and day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGUBhpv6jJ38ph8qGiAJocvGp8fMGOrpaPxjh5QA0GllYSPeDPzI02yNzMm9kKdcXa1_u3HNqUFGfl-5rq9VsQV9bqM_qpAnfUlawYbxK4EE-VK9xkRlZ8JVPFirr5VQrR0Hyow/s1600/IMG_2353_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGUBhpv6jJ38ph8qGiAJocvGp8fMGOrpaPxjh5QA0GllYSPeDPzI02yNzMm9kKdcXa1_u3HNqUFGfl-5rq9VsQV9bqM_qpAnfUlawYbxK4EE-VK9xkRlZ8JVPFirr5VQrR0Hyow/s1600/IMG_2353_2.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJtHotcGm8QxdrSCTDzTopFgaZlGXim6Bcs5q3w0s2zkaaxl09zbim29j-aRiA3Tx3BRa7pJBH4X_JYoSK0SKq0fYBtS_6KSMBjjvKaOtVSVBOOCirBAi7iBUIgro2jS489CupQ/s1600/IMG_2365_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJtHotcGm8QxdrSCTDzTopFgaZlGXim6Bcs5q3w0s2zkaaxl09zbim29j-aRiA3Tx3BRa7pJBH4X_JYoSK0SKq0fYBtS_6KSMBjjvKaOtVSVBOOCirBAi7iBUIgro2jS489CupQ/s1600/IMG_2365_2.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXUgLpCSBoYYRn6Z5glSkMcGk6m-C6wWNQQSHhYezGDkTum1eLiPv7V9W0gc_JO__JdeSg44G-LiD8l2_it4zg6M7sVPJRwkXkd80l6zmdCEW87U6nPfu7Na5rD_M14b6NU3nZQ/s1600/IMG_2373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXUgLpCSBoYYRn6Z5glSkMcGk6m-C6wWNQQSHhYezGDkTum1eLiPv7V9W0gc_JO__JdeSg44G-LiD8l2_it4zg6M7sVPJRwkXkd80l6zmdCEW87U6nPfu7Na5rD_M14b6NU3nZQ/s1600/IMG_2373.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1vRWpaQE7mm_BaghZlY7TjFZPnZ0qFSemUUZU6B_wb2BSOdLpZO6pFH40MXbH4jjdxkOdrnEVaejil6XT8ETQxeP4Q1euWBoSArqd-1SZCSVbcrN57SJZ2utfaQopg9zSl4TPw/s1600/IMG_2377_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1vRWpaQE7mm_BaghZlY7TjFZPnZ0qFSemUUZU6B_wb2BSOdLpZO6pFH40MXbH4jjdxkOdrnEVaejil6XT8ETQxeP4Q1euWBoSArqd-1SZCSVbcrN57SJZ2utfaQopg9zSl4TPw/s1600/IMG_2377_2.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJVFScfCXZrA2UFJzGuJgfF7pyRr6D9Oiy47MrEAdw9an3LWkM7ct7HaxBt2PpcyOiU9Ydhx8QKuX93OFJQl3o2RLz8bk97OLaylemqFRxSNVzoP66ei53QsLE_jThgOrlbY8SuQ/s1600/IMG_2382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJVFScfCXZrA2UFJzGuJgfF7pyRr6D9Oiy47MrEAdw9an3LWkM7ct7HaxBt2PpcyOiU9Ydhx8QKuX93OFJQl3o2RLz8bk97OLaylemqFRxSNVzoP66ei53QsLE_jThgOrlbY8SuQ/s1600/IMG_2382.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinuLSh7uX_3QqX3hsFdeJnS5yUmzJ6feV-FdcwH2Dz106Nt-GEHLKDLwBqsvrFU1UsD050MpYYnwlWPZytx_chNNB86B7xDSxyjRCN5Cs424DE2y3j3HQOOndsgT3enIRIArZZWw/s1600/IMG_2409_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinuLSh7uX_3QqX3hsFdeJnS5yUmzJ6feV-FdcwH2Dz106Nt-GEHLKDLwBqsvrFU1UsD050MpYYnwlWPZytx_chNNB86B7xDSxyjRCN5Cs424DE2y3j3HQOOndsgT3enIRIArZZWw/s1600/IMG_2409_2.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FJHtREEvdfJUUYP_UuUo_ZcupTpMyi88HY52POjHaaniVj37lFG7rpZjfNzrzTII9w07NhBRBC7AFjlBB5RVDRzPa_gInOciyOw1CocNt2XQIJP2bsQpTUrRAXnrF26btkS1QA/s1600/IMG_2414_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FJHtREEvdfJUUYP_UuUo_ZcupTpMyi88HY52POjHaaniVj37lFG7rpZjfNzrzTII9w07NhBRBC7AFjlBB5RVDRzPa_gInOciyOw1CocNt2XQIJP2bsQpTUrRAXnrF26btkS1QA/s1600/IMG_2414_2.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JUzJxtQ7pJfR9D8TrQNC4r5bEErM3EgFJ-hLIdvwyb_y4MKJD0XXXb4_UuzA-VrVNwZb56PUKfOWoo0VgzlpoBuX2jBVM4UbThGSRDC67lzyd8sW_8jMu3FckxxLzkoc0g9lrg/s1600/IMG_2427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JUzJxtQ7pJfR9D8TrQNC4r5bEErM3EgFJ-hLIdvwyb_y4MKJD0XXXb4_UuzA-VrVNwZb56PUKfOWoo0VgzlpoBuX2jBVM4UbThGSRDC67lzyd8sW_8jMu3FckxxLzkoc0g9lrg/s1600/IMG_2427.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
After Goblin Valley, we got to Grand Junction, Colorado and stayed there for the night. We got a decent dinner, swam in the pool, and rested before hitting the road at 4 am. I'm grateful that Paul likes to do most of the driving! That drive home was LONG. But we made it, and we're glad to be back. We finally feel like we're getting settled, which is such a nice feeling after being in transition for so long.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4N4hFzbctibfPip7b7lzKei16lKvyCGYAUcrKkWRLx9ducg-TytYq-CHsfQK4zHhbOHu5sdbFMhd7MMns_KhetC7O1ND5va4jbPfuBVnkle-IyRt6-31DUEHlNQiLc5kUR_rMA/s1600/IMG_20140712_061344693_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4N4hFzbctibfPip7b7lzKei16lKvyCGYAUcrKkWRLx9ducg-TytYq-CHsfQK4zHhbOHu5sdbFMhd7MMns_KhetC7O1ND5va4jbPfuBVnkle-IyRt6-31DUEHlNQiLc5kUR_rMA/s1600/IMG_20140712_061344693_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-23468784934113817852014-07-24T19:57:00.003-05:002014-07-25T11:04:15.543-05:00Utah Trip: ReunionThe second part of our trip was a lot of fun. We had most of Paul's family there, with the exception of Katie (on a mission) and Patrick (in Army training). Grandma had lots of fun games planned.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQjHIJP_UiIGzekbuvDJfgTwd_vndbKFMGqXJj_8rdtZn3uIgjZrFznZJJP-h8VYBqi5zNsEbMlo3o6G5z6lQk5NvPfr6hFbHesysARPOMlRyk8lOPj5Z_bxhi3C0O3pzbTlHBw/s1600/IMG_20140703_162403165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQjHIJP_UiIGzekbuvDJfgTwd_vndbKFMGqXJj_8rdtZn3uIgjZrFznZJJP-h8VYBqi5zNsEbMlo3o6G5z6lQk5NvPfr6hFbHesysARPOMlRyk8lOPj5Z_bxhi3C0O3pzbTlHBw/s1600/IMG_20140703_162403165.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The boys especially ate it up. It was wonderful to see these cousins get along so well, with the ever narrowing age gap between them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf82ZRHvRWuG1BwJnKGGBuoSpHYk0SHO8YGgolWOdt8og0jOU-FST1iyOYu-FLad7BZUlkZtq0GupozTrexMm15dT8YBmyxE7BfrVFuHUn_pOxRrIM62jxnkRjNdzethXK9VyRKQ/s1600/IMG_20140703_162637014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf82ZRHvRWuG1BwJnKGGBuoSpHYk0SHO8YGgolWOdt8og0jOU-FST1iyOYu-FLad7BZUlkZtq0GupozTrexMm15dT8YBmyxE7BfrVFuHUn_pOxRrIM62jxnkRjNdzethXK9VyRKQ/s1600/IMG_20140703_162637014.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We had a delicious, child-free night at Bombay House. It was perfect.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0e3_SYXaDa3UsFW4cRn-ntf9etiPJBttTLUnXypDHUrP2YPcy73nmZN2f_CT3qiOGccFrltsx8rOZGIIz3stkQSQDV_dlocUSi8LJvFyn_4dugJi6JJ0Bq1dmkAyhyphenhyphenDqaw6d4w/s1600/IMG_20140703_184938589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0e3_SYXaDa3UsFW4cRn-ntf9etiPJBttTLUnXypDHUrP2YPcy73nmZN2f_CT3qiOGccFrltsx8rOZGIIz3stkQSQDV_dlocUSi8LJvFyn_4dugJi6JJ0Bq1dmkAyhyphenhyphenDqaw6d4w/s1600/IMG_20140703_184938589.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
There was plenty of relaxed evening time to jam and play games.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzssV1oeDt2gvtn5zJqwdIa9u95CIBJHEKUvJaNQKN9g1drO0HErBoUP4DZIHjnFuwhojkfTIPaMNRLxiKwsiiK3xdAXtdvGfwQTAdIGxP6klPu7lmghDvH-ZyND5SCIr1yMiumQ/s1600/IMG_20140703_214239184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzssV1oeDt2gvtn5zJqwdIa9u95CIBJHEKUvJaNQKN9g1drO0HErBoUP4DZIHjnFuwhojkfTIPaMNRLxiKwsiiK3xdAXtdvGfwQTAdIGxP6klPu7lmghDvH-ZyND5SCIr1yMiumQ/s1600/IMG_20140703_214239184.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We all joined up for the Provo Fourth of July parade. It's probably one of the most patriotic places on earth.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbByrrDe_bcOtEZcpFNplOa-eMR5Pcl7q9dl0iJAdu0i76h_qrUszHMobTSY0q_xtZYLjG6J3Nqdh0JY-ZmkA7EkYLT4801CiRAYjtmyIqGvKSgauScUpkTskypsTVbae3NSPuhw/s1600/IMG_20140704_121138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbByrrDe_bcOtEZcpFNplOa-eMR5Pcl7q9dl0iJAdu0i76h_qrUszHMobTSY0q_xtZYLjG6J3Nqdh0JY-ZmkA7EkYLT4801CiRAYjtmyIqGvKSgauScUpkTskypsTVbae3NSPuhw/s1600/IMG_20140704_121138.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lydia loved every minute!</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_2uN5748yG8WdRVSr2k7uCm1naM0CgEESLx0trUtFQvo0Fx0e0uB96kHoR9HthCbAzGtZV9_TI3SL_kKRzI02rRXK8DYwz5RbEFDVd0XxmnTjaMeWtXSiDabran5a4nmXxNmOQ/s1600/IMG_20140704_100829_022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_2uN5748yG8WdRVSr2k7uCm1naM0CgEESLx0trUtFQvo0Fx0e0uB96kHoR9HthCbAzGtZV9_TI3SL_kKRzI02rRXK8DYwz5RbEFDVd0XxmnTjaMeWtXSiDabran5a4nmXxNmOQ/s1600/IMG_20140704_100829_022.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnW1W_9_UFTaYcUzgnrQDEv0Nxeez3eyHvtL_-wReYk4D5COb9WLjhrfphubbBLx-17crO_A__0hrTlYr8beHn2mpaZORMEvMAybxnlRSToLb0ruQB2sX7ytGIm5NgAGNC43kVTg/s1600/Independence+day+-+103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnW1W_9_UFTaYcUzgnrQDEv0Nxeez3eyHvtL_-wReYk4D5COb9WLjhrfphubbBLx-17crO_A__0hrTlYr8beHn2mpaZORMEvMAybxnlRSToLb0ruQB2sX7ytGIm5NgAGNC43kVTg/s1600/Independence+day+-+103.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The Provo River runs through Grandma and Grandpa's backyard, so we play back there every Fourth of July together. The river was pretty low this year, but we all wet regardless.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzaHhVikZoA0RUDnSMPJFWOZJhEC5g4XXIY9GPnYKdaJrSLgTZ5p_RjdfQRKHkmI-LuTglRamn6QND5n9c5BqCoL2IRscH6WFc_Xbx63bft7yJQcp91XbeBxig3tdnXxbje7DrA/s1600/IMG_20140704_154527188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzaHhVikZoA0RUDnSMPJFWOZJhEC5g4XXIY9GPnYKdaJrSLgTZ5p_RjdfQRKHkmI-LuTglRamn6QND5n9c5BqCoL2IRscH6WFc_Xbx63bft7yJQcp91XbeBxig3tdnXxbje7DrA/s1600/IMG_20140704_154527188.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia had no fear! She maneuvered over and around the rocks with ease.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMPNkpVtRhtt0CeWngP97eBo3DhwcEq3S9A_mgbJ73Rk44qjtXGxBiCz6Ahsg0r2xq0P03MrJf_CFV4YMdbKDVNiu1jTWxgewrfz6-uchHG_Z4QFJgH_4MuQLdDHelALyGlDKiw/s1600/IMG_20140704_155312568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMPNkpVtRhtt0CeWngP97eBo3DhwcEq3S9A_mgbJ73Rk44qjtXGxBiCz6Ahsg0r2xq0P03MrJf_CFV4YMdbKDVNiu1jTWxgewrfz6-uchHG_Z4QFJgH_4MuQLdDHelALyGlDKiw/s1600/IMG_20140704_155312568.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
The kids all got rides in Josh and Anne's kid's-sized kayak. They loved it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9n2F6-bm-2nKgXWP4Wz0xo95JbAyuc-4VfUo9NnLEltbyVozB8feNMHtCoBkAkXysgggQYa34W4-bWMQoSCqYZaG_NmpR41Blud05pdYDKmxAgrMJOLiVqVvlzek8-1bzevcZZw/s1600/IMG_20140704_161340035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9n2F6-bm-2nKgXWP4Wz0xo95JbAyuc-4VfUo9NnLEltbyVozB8feNMHtCoBkAkXysgggQYa34W4-bWMQoSCqYZaG_NmpR41Blud05pdYDKmxAgrMJOLiVqVvlzek8-1bzevcZZw/s1600/IMG_20140704_161340035.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
There was plenty of swing time...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhje5wsQbWD0p9XiH2WcrRb431Se10R1VitotdGHSE4SoeBJDGk7p-uDjbk3Tppez-IkQKdxSkIYu1meXyejDaVDJ862JHCiY55wc9GujQK6KhwUhhJ8FYNDGoqQTPUUQGQ7PRSsA/s1600/IMG_20140704_174620415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhje5wsQbWD0p9XiH2WcrRb431Se10R1VitotdGHSE4SoeBJDGk7p-uDjbk3Tppez-IkQKdxSkIYu1meXyejDaVDJ862JHCiY55wc9GujQK6KhwUhhJ8FYNDGoqQTPUUQGQ7PRSsA/s1600/IMG_20140704_174620415.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
...play time...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAn2EvoOSIK_-jmLrs6DWSK_6Sys3Mf7DHlTj1qDwsuH-6SRhTDx_TDPO2LiMAsTvZMpCskJsbZx-K9XpYSlH1AC6v26gcksqYGP7UUoHaFxVXiZmNfR2ctSIaw2yjGcGRGsK8Ag/s1600/IMG_2302_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAn2EvoOSIK_-jmLrs6DWSK_6Sys3Mf7DHlTj1qDwsuH-6SRhTDx_TDPO2LiMAsTvZMpCskJsbZx-K9XpYSlH1AC6v26gcksqYGP7UUoHaFxVXiZmNfR2ctSIaw2yjGcGRGsK8Ag/s1600/IMG_2302_2.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
...ice cream...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfj0HTrpOwSh3PQQvq3FZVcoZqMRM6xvIXjDa-Ixw0UWujFfMyK6Wwhwd70YVGrJJrXfgkZ0BXbOBirIDmDOvobEW3RCUncbxtiGqeZ_W0kOKIcsZhRrSb2nb34ZMMnXESw_Gadw/s1600/IMG_2308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfj0HTrpOwSh3PQQvq3FZVcoZqMRM6xvIXjDa-Ixw0UWujFfMyK6Wwhwd70YVGrJJrXfgkZ0BXbOBirIDmDOvobEW3RCUncbxtiGqeZ_W0kOKIcsZhRrSb2nb34ZMMnXESw_Gadw/s1600/IMG_2308.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
...and "ladder ball" time. It was the latest obsession among the more competitive bunch. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXI4knk5Sc6UeDJODfo65OIHpbdWAjvFnJw8XfJ3PC9hD91CNunoEu9guCvbRAiKlptdIULdzhUZKgjtJxnVeDGZ1OM1CnESikKdKfKW6rlv3RULMFSUKA7shUCVosdmT2CV68g/s1600/20140705_163050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXI4knk5Sc6UeDJODfo65OIHpbdWAjvFnJw8XfJ3PC9hD91CNunoEu9guCvbRAiKlptdIULdzhUZKgjtJxnVeDGZ1OM1CnESikKdKfKW6rlv3RULMFSUKA7shUCVosdmT2CV68g/s1600/20140705_163050.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
Grandma made a bunch of patriotic quilts- one for each of the families! We each got to choose our favorites, though the kids had surprisingly strong (and conflicting) opinions. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWymMhbjU-FKhDU8BSNQH4IVEY8THB_UVYzPNTafWsZiYvCdRDWcmY8Qc6XzHjap5QqerLbaP4r24g5psbqdSX2qZ8LUQFb9cRfLZbKs9A6MPeLLGbQyAX-awmTaFKq0B4ZNvT8Q/s1600/20140703_210702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWymMhbjU-FKhDU8BSNQH4IVEY8THB_UVYzPNTafWsZiYvCdRDWcmY8Qc6XzHjap5QqerLbaP4r24g5psbqdSX2qZ8LUQFb9cRfLZbKs9A6MPeLLGbQyAX-awmTaFKq0B4ZNvT8Q/s1600/20140703_210702.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
We had Great-Grandma with us too, which was a treat!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQloFZtDmub5nTy_G9nPu6i28m0mrlrVkEQetkamZJ_eKNGqg-FcObYPC-lv19NZ5DWPtnRRTDMOK4T3Q7A6cvweM1TUG7ETiG_6OjNbmDPoeH4Y-_QETBKcatgnHWQ-PRSEyZKQ/s1600/20140703_210643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQloFZtDmub5nTy_G9nPu6i28m0mrlrVkEQetkamZJ_eKNGqg-FcObYPC-lv19NZ5DWPtnRRTDMOK4T3Q7A6cvweM1TUG7ETiG_6OjNbmDPoeH4Y-_QETBKcatgnHWQ-PRSEyZKQ/s1600/20140703_210643.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
We hiked one day up to Upper Falls (near Bridal Veil). It was a steep climb, but quick enough for small legs to manage.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAOeqRZ98GoxShCg_RNdVVamuCqzCkiOBosQYG1NX7aznmBnJKVVoOyhy4xrOlcBS4_9K_2QGTFX6JmW-QMhPqKLVrcLx4vPQdkzTJVF83Y52KtqVwMk-PQJj9_M9Eo0xo5RrFQ/s1600/IMG_20140705_111838932_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAOeqRZ98GoxShCg_RNdVVamuCqzCkiOBosQYG1NX7aznmBnJKVVoOyhy4xrOlcBS4_9K_2QGTFX6JmW-QMhPqKLVrcLx4vPQdkzTJVF83Y52KtqVwMk-PQJj9_M9Eo0xo5RrFQ/s1600/IMG_20140705_111838932_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0etqIRq1_hHr6RhUs65w5EQ8ci7-h1WvUt83X51CWdL6atNN-yBIS5IW3dCF76aFXkGf2ds5L-KjIsKpt1lGdVXZ7PisJFEaO8TCLBeo970T5ZMjcp0mLRoBSQKBxlKZ3tswqA/s1600/IMG_20140705_115451223_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0etqIRq1_hHr6RhUs65w5EQ8ci7-h1WvUt83X51CWdL6atNN-yBIS5IW3dCF76aFXkGf2ds5L-KjIsKpt1lGdVXZ7PisJFEaO8TCLBeo970T5ZMjcp0mLRoBSQKBxlKZ3tswqA/s1600/IMG_20140705_115451223_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This was the first time all of the 2013 babies met together. How crazy is it that there are FIVE of them?! Lincoln, Elliott, Gabriel, Lydia and Claire. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhu21DgoZeFqeSqPuXu5J_HJX57u8ckYz3mO5JtZrHOqiFYgLaWdLfpRL1wGliY4j4CgJAhIZojM8MW1OS7cF6KVgmRWzCwthso_LDbCM9LlewkLXoeRUmO_cyHLaaZZldAPjiXQ/s1600/IMG_2017_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhu21DgoZeFqeSqPuXu5J_HJX57u8ckYz3mO5JtZrHOqiFYgLaWdLfpRL1wGliY4j4CgJAhIZojM8MW1OS7cF6KVgmRWzCwthso_LDbCM9LlewkLXoeRUmO_cyHLaaZZldAPjiXQ/s1600/IMG_2017_2.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The 2010's were a cute bunch as well. We'd find them off eating breakfast together, having conversations about scary movies and other important things. Josephine, Gloria, Porter and Nora are becoming fast friends.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fHykpAVcF9JpU4z4GI5JV98sPwAj_Q3epZXMKwS2b1IVFSCc1mN2__TcDVayHUzBhXpxBG9eXtFlzWXrcbPzb_jFeedAwtngCOJhyphenhyphenWCpkN3Ok5NWz1Haykd-HFSHU8RKDG40ig/s1600/IMG_2068_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fHykpAVcF9JpU4z4GI5JV98sPwAj_Q3epZXMKwS2b1IVFSCc1mN2__TcDVayHUzBhXpxBG9eXtFlzWXrcbPzb_jFeedAwtngCOJhyphenhyphenWCpkN3Ok5NWz1Haykd-HFSHU8RKDG40ig/s1600/IMG_2068_2.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The big boys had a blast together. We hardly even saw them. There is about a three year gap between the oldest and the youngest, but Peter, Andrew, Benjamin, Will and Adrian really got along well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbHNeFrs2uiq-h8DzBf3M0m5O8xy2Vdc6_EJWGhkF0M8caEvjF7sWmCoIxdAVaauqQ0gYVG4T2EQyCykMCffS_jmgyQm3pFDy7Op6ewfDMAvM5oe3SDUIkZna1-amdACB89GDaA/s1600/IMG_2154_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbHNeFrs2uiq-h8DzBf3M0m5O8xy2Vdc6_EJWGhkF0M8caEvjF7sWmCoIxdAVaauqQ0gYVG4T2EQyCykMCffS_jmgyQm3pFDy7Op6ewfDMAvM5oe3SDUIkZna1-amdACB89GDaA/s1600/IMG_2154_2.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We got a few shots of all the grandkids with Grandma and Grandpa. Is anyone else impressed that Grandpa is holding THREE babies, and they're all looking pretty chill? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPp-b4QgeUQ1J35JVP1wYadG-J9WPaxTBP0COjR1uF3hZosOvp5x4KyYvSsq1Jxnx4-rSyxHMThhf8Pfn3Ibc7NX9EzeH6GWxlmxWzrRZRvzZdImquLij7iPyO0O3XQNfjeoDjQ/s1600/14+-+88.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPp-b4QgeUQ1J35JVP1wYadG-J9WPaxTBP0COjR1uF3hZosOvp5x4KyYvSsq1Jxnx4-rSyxHMThhf8Pfn3Ibc7NX9EzeH6GWxlmxWzrRZRvzZdImquLij7iPyO0O3XQNfjeoDjQ/s1600/14+-+88.jpg" height="247" width="320" /></a></div>
And just for kicks, here's a very grainy picture (of a picture?) of the whole gang. I'm sure the original is floating around somewhere, but it's not on my computer. But you get a sense of how many bodies we had! So fun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYV2f5bmWo-tP1jCufoivBdWH-y4x5LsFEOu3tsRyynsWCzx82DDe2P62Xh8zj3Feudxl1kRpRheqTLlp61u624MQUwUENfRlIrqUkcZbqfg49D2-lgTMrLZiObtrliRekvlvPw/s1600/20140704_215326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYV2f5bmWo-tP1jCufoivBdWH-y4x5LsFEOu3tsRyynsWCzx82DDe2P62Xh8zj3Feudxl1kRpRheqTLlp61u624MQUwUENfRlIrqUkcZbqfg49D2-lgTMrLZiObtrliRekvlvPw/s1600/20140704_215326.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
We were sad to see the reunion end and everyone part ways. By the end of the year, the siblings will all be scattered to Texas, Utah, Missouri, Virginia, Kansas and Scotland. We love every chance we get to be together!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22619211.post-34865368504103419922014-07-24T14:00:00.002-05:002014-07-25T11:01:28.889-05:00Utah Trip Part One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our family's annual drive to Utah started just about a week after we moved in to our new house. We left at 4 in the morning, and drove all day. Lydia took some time to adjust to the idea of being in the car all day, but the other kids did great. We had tons of snacks and movies to watch, and the kids were pretty content. We pulled in to my parent's house around 11:00, which was our best time yet. Twenty hours!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gjSu-VKqHtOmim0auoqB7zfe1thXJeqFt3o_1hPQ0ZaqNogBRDSR4Ti4MAAPnTbuWml-coO1QKPTw5dBkTHuU495vvdZgQomBggn8uov_sgTIbbdLiGmjTI_s4_xcYOGpCw5vQ/s1600/IMG_20140627_062208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gjSu-VKqHtOmim0auoqB7zfe1thXJeqFt3o_1hPQ0ZaqNogBRDSR4Ti4MAAPnTbuWml-coO1QKPTw5dBkTHuU495vvdZgQomBggn8uov_sgTIbbdLiGmjTI_s4_xcYOGpCw5vQ/s1600/IMG_20140627_062208.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
We left a day earlier than planned, and were glad we could make it to my sister Michelle's bridal shower. Here's me with my three little sisters and my Mom!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4C3djfphzoL_KwGMrFGznTcB9A1qelEMw45T9hXFGBRDrOo8s7kCnfUNtEIaerXLlg2zBqwjfYH_NmySZfGkYrxOM0DHyJteAf6-We_dAhzDcTzp1rZYqoUQXrwKrfKtX3AxIg/s1600/IMG_20140628_144222971_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4C3djfphzoL_KwGMrFGznTcB9A1qelEMw45T9hXFGBRDrOo8s7kCnfUNtEIaerXLlg2zBqwjfYH_NmySZfGkYrxOM0DHyJteAf6-We_dAhzDcTzp1rZYqoUQXrwKrfKtX3AxIg/s1600/IMG_20140628_144222971_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Lydia and Abby got reacquainted. They are about a month apart, but worlds apart in personality. It was fun to watch them interact.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7E5y4nmWPrn04-J8Src9rosBHWxczNW5y9Wb97yYqSQk4QjvOkbDDQD0DPcRKsWYQXHhDhcIuNg7ItjfDQn4R0mPDp3lQH250Iv85mu0-_eUb7QHVOSXtzVexseLQNUhdZJj_w/s1600/IMG_20140629_182623663.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7E5y4nmWPrn04-J8Src9rosBHWxczNW5y9Wb97yYqSQk4QjvOkbDDQD0DPcRKsWYQXHhDhcIuNg7ItjfDQn4R0mPDp3lQH250Iv85mu0-_eUb7QHVOSXtzVexseLQNUhdZJj_w/s1600/IMG_20140629_182623663.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Two of my brothers are in Utah right now too. Uncle Nathan and David were instant favorites among the kids.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_uydXGacnLZOku7f6nChOc3h_hi8jztdxYxrQb00LA24E58Z9LXMEKz0SFVr3nccYnLgmv2DkmBW5CCM_qqMfZzLPk8rfdvpu3utGRYWnfu6bD_vLY1fCZbu1CUsusNL6ot8gsQ/s1600/IMG_20140629_183050094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_uydXGacnLZOku7f6nChOc3h_hi8jztdxYxrQb00LA24E58Z9LXMEKz0SFVr3nccYnLgmv2DkmBW5CCM_qqMfZzLPk8rfdvpu3utGRYWnfu6bD_vLY1fCZbu1CUsusNL6ot8gsQ/s1600/IMG_20140629_183050094.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
My Grandparents on my Mom's side invited us to go fishing with them one day near their family cabin. Peter had a real knack for it! I think he caught more than anyone besides my Grandma and Grandpa, who were the real pros of the group.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6275zmWPlKK3Fy2jlX08ApniwYM5mK7H5L8C3VqmSaiufhKhvWFNwCabbIdWbdY8UUTzmx6WlTHLFxO6FdWFMjow2ecsipEkOElFRbq84oWtTu9YiIhAGPs_1GMOdEMu4H4YBg/s1600/IMG_20140630_091221607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6275zmWPlKK3Fy2jlX08ApniwYM5mK7H5L8C3VqmSaiufhKhvWFNwCabbIdWbdY8UUTzmx6WlTHLFxO6FdWFMjow2ecsipEkOElFRbq84oWtTu9YiIhAGPs_1GMOdEMu4H4YBg/s1600/IMG_20140630_091221607.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I honestly never knew that my Grandma loves to fish. It adds a whole new dimension to this woman who I feel like I am only beginning to know. It's funny how you can know someone your whole life, and still not really know them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBmvprfQZqS4FVknGFp0XmB-HVXIwFZ191k7aWy2dnonOmiSCbRv-8AJMgLXa12nh2RpM8195jIERzVkMmhAJGuVE9FC9D9_3ijs74QZyxKxwt_mVmDZF1l9ZvwuE4KafpJhqfRw/s1600/IMG_20140630_092244941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBmvprfQZqS4FVknGFp0XmB-HVXIwFZ191k7aWy2dnonOmiSCbRv-8AJMgLXa12nh2RpM8195jIERzVkMmhAJGuVE9FC9D9_3ijs74QZyxKxwt_mVmDZF1l9ZvwuE4KafpJhqfRw/s1600/IMG_20140630_092244941.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHcTQicxyQxy6pc9zuR-d-9OnKlQ4LCFdd7Fe9IiRVswZK0pPJ3pbKLxbLe65ymMjtqSdUxZLcX8CcSK-xGScju0unuM6eNa6-xjdFWwdxFNfvgbFB19T2n2_VGa72XKrzJ92K8A/s1600/IMG_20140630_092833089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHcTQicxyQxy6pc9zuR-d-9OnKlQ4LCFdd7Fe9IiRVswZK0pPJ3pbKLxbLe65ymMjtqSdUxZLcX8CcSK-xGScju0unuM6eNa6-xjdFWwdxFNfvgbFB19T2n2_VGa72XKrzJ92K8A/s1600/IMG_20140630_092833089.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Nathan brought his rubber fishing pants, and took the kids out away from the shore. Lydia was loving it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJnfmqoozQSRLv8v4g1tTmBXtbkRpz-js8NpZjNIDQ07nouT-BFW2yjGbTlSq-4fzs19qz_op633x2XpdrcwCA1gt2Lv5Fq2xVbA7wfuBSXxKgd2KmwWp8C3QybJCJlKVDD2_8Q/s1600/IMG_20140630_125212278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJnfmqoozQSRLv8v4g1tTmBXtbkRpz-js8NpZjNIDQ07nouT-BFW2yjGbTlSq-4fzs19qz_op633x2XpdrcwCA1gt2Lv5Fq2xVbA7wfuBSXxKgd2KmwWp8C3QybJCJlKVDD2_8Q/s1600/IMG_20140630_125212278.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
We took walks around the cabin to see the horses...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1XcX_pDaIQhirBoMRnYMutdjprRIQa49sKuy8A8UU3tcl4C1h6NkjBBBrFPmGhOsA4-1YQctFbQYDJGXrWUtVXVJHt2__hYnefwiTcxrCVwa_guyYRSLpT-uPpPVYbjwln6QySQ/s1600/IMG_20140701_082221826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1XcX_pDaIQhirBoMRnYMutdjprRIQa49sKuy8A8UU3tcl4C1h6NkjBBBrFPmGhOsA4-1YQctFbQYDJGXrWUtVXVJHt2__hYnefwiTcxrCVwa_guyYRSLpT-uPpPVYbjwln6QySQ/s1600/IMG_20140701_082221826.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
...the beautiful wild poppies...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5477195VLL5EIu9nCfiDbxWL8sWp82R95qgXO0JzO8S2oJIyFGWY-0eBNPlQf4q3rIKy2TUzvRFe3jUF2h7bZ6I2VHMGBD3NU8uABSQn2VF9pHtuRX5N00A-li6m12CVSUPvB0Q/s1600/IMG_20140701_083505476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5477195VLL5EIu9nCfiDbxWL8sWp82R95qgXO0JzO8S2oJIyFGWY-0eBNPlQf4q3rIKy2TUzvRFe3jUF2h7bZ6I2VHMGBD3NU8uABSQn2VF9pHtuRX5N00A-li6m12CVSUPvB0Q/s1600/IMG_20140701_083505476.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
...the creek...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgltfQ_GV8JkTDKddUpLW9KFzWLgDI-dPYoxCM7rupc5x1UvUSsKEXXMYr-3iKuHxz8A70pd58Jn8N2FdQNjoo8I0SKzQxjs30DVtopyTlj8isf3P0N8zk2hNFkNozO2hmB6NZjaQ/s1600/IMG_20140701_093712547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgltfQ_GV8JkTDKddUpLW9KFzWLgDI-dPYoxCM7rupc5x1UvUSsKEXXMYr-3iKuHxz8A70pd58Jn8N2FdQNjoo8I0SKzQxjs30DVtopyTlj8isf3P0N8zk2hNFkNozO2hmB6NZjaQ/s1600/IMG_20140701_093712547.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
...and our shadows. My Mom is so fun with the kids!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_JmMhzF3_rnfbnH4tAWUtOzRSqo35GkjTuGMeZvbPX8wxZTSRpeZZuz4JFuHiImjb7q0_S39jrB2Q445VrXy7dJNtQvaxYu2q3W13rePVHDJUtXGaE05KDHy-lNcCQvD-eqnog/s1600/IMG_20140701_084207998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_JmMhzF3_rnfbnH4tAWUtOzRSqo35GkjTuGMeZvbPX8wxZTSRpeZZuz4JFuHiImjb7q0_S39jrB2Q445VrXy7dJNtQvaxYu2q3W13rePVHDJUtXGaE05KDHy-lNcCQvD-eqnog/s1600/IMG_20140701_084207998.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Benjamin got some great one-on-one time with Grandpa. They played horseshoes for a while!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUaXTZwDIJ2cmkEThhMAAlVW8flZw6vO2qxBwy5HFOHSyNHodas3l6d7UnHp_mugk5bW4XEPQPFSKavdadiVLxkpMsIl8Qc9zf9q4Hu8FPExcK38i1wAu4mLDtiHFzcTdWvNicBA/s1600/IMG_20140701_084737024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUaXTZwDIJ2cmkEThhMAAlVW8flZw6vO2qxBwy5HFOHSyNHodas3l6d7UnHp_mugk5bW4XEPQPFSKavdadiVLxkpMsIl8Qc9zf9q4Hu8FPExcK38i1wAu4mLDtiHFzcTdWvNicBA/s1600/IMG_20140701_084737024.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqxq_Iz-V5NfetPCRvy1-DaivDCJeiXo5AIVI0d3y66XnqKWg1pw8_M4gjcveVeMfNFpPla7Wt4KlyGGgcLVIRa4MpNTF1I6vWmuZyWg5R0qrDcln3owb9BwBH5WqRTM-S0I6Vg/s1600/IMG_20140701_084740286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqxq_Iz-V5NfetPCRvy1-DaivDCJeiXo5AIVI0d3y66XnqKWg1pw8_M4gjcveVeMfNFpPla7Wt4KlyGGgcLVIRa4MpNTF1I6vWmuZyWg5R0qrDcln3owb9BwBH5WqRTM-S0I6Vg/s1600/IMG_20140701_084740286.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had a delicious fish dinner with all the fish we caught! The kids loved this part.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW_UQXMg9B_9lqcNbLkZptG7IEhmOMVuTWRWA5-81xj2BXN67807jFu_6tGBC2t-5HLPOEHdmdInVZ7gCgVRLkqe9qbB4t9qw3jIfhWM8mUVXMSC7hc6HSzIdp3sDTsUx2qZMqSA/s1600/IMG_20140630_180436_418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW_UQXMg9B_9lqcNbLkZptG7IEhmOMVuTWRWA5-81xj2BXN67807jFu_6tGBC2t-5HLPOEHdmdInVZ7gCgVRLkqe9qbB4t9qw3jIfhWM8mUVXMSC7hc6HSzIdp3sDTsUx2qZMqSA/s1600/IMG_20140630_180436_418.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
I'm a lucky girl to have grandparents who some of my kids will always remember.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tn0MFFFYHFPBhcsNMlDBhjkZoQmFv-ud1otDjocjWJZNHxWBtcszSrF6ZaiOYwN5N4PZizJH9-3YStsweNMZLNnyxdQ0VLwPt20y_aNEZLFaM-XbTwIBLjrKFJI09p2z2Rspow/s1600/IMG_20140630_195501_935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tn0MFFFYHFPBhcsNMlDBhjkZoQmFv-ud1otDjocjWJZNHxWBtcszSrF6ZaiOYwN5N4PZizJH9-3YStsweNMZLNnyxdQ0VLwPt20y_aNEZLFaM-XbTwIBLjrKFJI09p2z2Rspow/s1600/IMG_20140630_195501_935.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We spent part of a day at my sister Miriam's new house, which was a lot of fun! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOW375QzQ5hPbmO11Lb4zwl8tbkTbToJYnzxACgMRjH7Xb6hDifRMncbeu_BHX8vKbtxegQzwkPIyuD7u3MXK0KDMxZURTs4YEjwxiv1CSN3BLHFSYrzyTUq4TDFtuiQ9s783mQ/s1600/IMG_20140702_123316_860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOW375QzQ5hPbmO11Lb4zwl8tbkTbToJYnzxACgMRjH7Xb6hDifRMncbeu_BHX8vKbtxegQzwkPIyuD7u3MXK0KDMxZURTs4YEjwxiv1CSN3BLHFSYrzyTUq4TDFtuiQ9s783mQ/s1600/IMG_20140702_123316_860.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iQRkBc7EfaFWgBVRC8YsazyOyCaxuhldc0e8U0l6JB90d7Hw7u5VO2FUv4qhc5aem4rJDs8pm2-KxmaI5gXlRV0FrZJXhg4k1piorXs3AGSWKjuyv93QCAcxHWb5ggMgqq7QhQ/s1600/IMG_20140702_125016_784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iQRkBc7EfaFWgBVRC8YsazyOyCaxuhldc0e8U0l6JB90d7Hw7u5VO2FUv4qhc5aem4rJDs8pm2-KxmaI5gXlRV0FrZJXhg4k1piorXs3AGSWKjuyv93QCAcxHWb5ggMgqq7QhQ/s1600/IMG_20140702_125016_784.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also prepped for Michelle's wedding, played around in the back yard, and visited with my Grandma on my Dad's side. Nora and Peter both wanted piano lessons from my Mom, which she was happy to give.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpN-X_zwc-Brw7V1zV6A-jc0PphvEDUEyej11LfcWmgLrwuIWLdoF8r6maV2D6iQaIqcD5pkl9dbtBALkn3diYiFK3VSQNImSVUWddl1yqgteHdHIw-PMlgpZySwjnX9ubZyUvQ/s1600/IMG_20140702_172440896_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpN-X_zwc-Brw7V1zV6A-jc0PphvEDUEyej11LfcWmgLrwuIWLdoF8r6maV2D6iQaIqcD5pkl9dbtBALkn3diYiFK3VSQNImSVUWddl1yqgteHdHIw-PMlgpZySwjnX9ubZyUvQ/s1600/IMG_20140702_172440896_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
She has taught piano for over thirty years, and still has students come to her home. She can even hold a wiggly baby while she does it! Wonder Woman, right there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2-xeTZMg_i1v6QeykEe8AcgTzcs_gWR70rCmlADnxs_gHHCXoaT7sEiCOqMwov4a8mHQwVUU7j0m7eXZhmS9wHCUsJrSToFFx8Ma3z7TgveM7Ml6p-aAv95G8TUNHh7AmJCuEg/s1600/IMG_20140702_172450017_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2-xeTZMg_i1v6QeykEe8AcgTzcs_gWR70rCmlADnxs_gHHCXoaT7sEiCOqMwov4a8mHQwVUU7j0m7eXZhmS9wHCUsJrSToFFx8Ma3z7TgveM7Ml6p-aAv95G8TUNHh7AmJCuEg/s1600/IMG_20140702_172450017_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
It's always a treat to see family, which is why we make the drive every year. I love that our kids know these places so well and have memories cemented in their minds of the people and places that will always be in their lives.<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16092323690627099241noreply@blogger.com0