Giles Blog

Tanner turns 8 and get's baptized

2009-01-07T14:05:00.002-07:00

What a very special day this was for our family. The spirit was very present and we had many of our close friends and family (Grandma and Grandpa Giles) to share it with us. Many kind words were spoken to Tanner and my heart melted as I agreed with all the nice compliments he was given. He really is a sweet and kind hearted boy. The program also included a wonderful talk by our dear friend, Ashley Morris, on baptism. I was privileged to talk on the gift of the Holy Ghost. Our neighbor and dear friend , Jake Lane, played the piano while Blake, Tanner, Sydney and Courtney sang "If the Savior Stood beside me". Mike, Dan Morris, Tom Moore, Tom Macdougal, and Greg Bashaw sang "How Great Thou Art". Mike baptized Tanner while Grandpa Giles Confirmed him and gave him the gift of the Holy Ghost.

It was a spiritual day and our hearts were full of Love and Joy for Tanner and especially for Our Savior and the wonderful blessing of Baptism.

New years eve was a blast

2009-01-07T14:04:00.003-07:00

We spent New Years Eve as a family at our friends, Kristin and Tom Moore's along with most of the Auburn Hills Ward. It was busy with kids and people everywhere and was a truely enjoyable celebration. We had delicious food, games, great conversation, and even banging of pots and pans (for over 35 minutes). We concluded the evening listening to Tom play his guitar and sing for us. Did I mention we did not get home and in bed until around 2:00a.m. The next day Mom and Dad slept in until 9:00 while the others woke up in between with Tanner not making it out of bed until almost 12:00. The other 3 late nights prior deffinately did not help either.

We are blessed to have wonderful friends and so many things to look forward to for the upcoming year.

Christmas was wonderful

2009-01-07T14:04:00.002-07:00

Christmas this year was sweet and simple. We stayed home and spent our Christmas eve making our yummy Navajo tacos. We also had yummy apple Carmel dip (from our friends-the Mulligan's), and yummy cream cheeses dip (From the Larsen's). The kids opened a gift (actually 2 because they also opened their pajama's from sweet Aunt Susie and Uncle Kurt). We read from Mathew in the scriptures. We sprinkled reindeer food outside for Santa's reindeer and made sure the cookies were set out. But, mostly we spent quality time together enjoying the wonderful gift of family. Because we enjoy each other so much it comes very easily for us.

Christmas morning was magical. Blake then Tanner then Sydney woke up. Mike nudged me to listen to their sweet little voices whisper excitement about seeing the stockings by the tree. After a bit they came in to tell us that they could see the stockings by the tree and so they knew Santa had come. They were trying hard to be very patient as we waited for Courtney to wake up. It took about 30 more minutes for her to wake up and then we all ran downstairs full of eagerness. Blake especially loved his bb gun and chauncy Billups jersey, Tanner especially loved his sweet baseball bat and webkin, Sydney was elated to get a robe and slippers, and Courtney did not need to go any further then her purple phone and pretend "real" vacuum, Mom was elated to see that dad had listened to her want for a robe, and dad seemed happy with his new "holeless" dress socks.

Ounce we had opened presents, we had cinnamon rolls and scones. They were delicious as dad had made a yummy honey butter to put on top of the scones. Mom cheated and made rodes cinnamon rolls (still feel guilty).

We played a game of Monopoly where I (mike might argue that he-because he stepped in at the very end) beat Blake.

We hung out all day in our pajamas all day. We made a homemade orange/lemon chicken for lunch. Mostly, we just enjoyed eachother all day.

Thanksgiving with Friends

2008-11-30T22:58:00.002-07:00

We spent Thanksgiving at our friends, Laura and Jason Dickman, home. Shane, Janet, Kelsey, and Dakota Merrell were also with us.

Dinner was delicious! We had Spiral Ham, fabulous Turkey, Mashed potato's with gravy, cranberry jello salad, stuffing, rolls, fresh green beans, and scrumptious pies.

We were very thankful to have such a wonderful feast and enjoyable time.

Halloween

2008-10-31T22:58:00.001-06:00

Trip to Vail

2008-10-23T23:38:00.003-06:00

Our kind friends, Rachael and Shawn invited us to stay in their time share condo with them. We stayed for 2 nights. It was such a beautiful time to be in the mountains. We had a really great time exploring the area. We hiked to Hanging Lake (shown above) and also tried to get to an old Tunnel. The crazy lighting storm/snow blizzard prevented us from reaching the final destination. However, we had a great time 4 wheeling up the mountain side and exposing ourselves to every weather element trying.

Even our drive back home was an adventure as we almost ran out of gas going over Vail pass. But, don't worry we safely coasted down the entire mountain pass in neutral and into the gas station which was thankfully located at the bottom of the mountain.

Sydney starts Kindergarten

2008-08-08T13:54:00.003-06:00

8-08-08. Sydney is now officially a kindergartner. I cannot believe my mixed emotions of joy and sadness. I will miss my afternoons with her. This was our time to paint nails, work together, cook together, read together, watch TV together, and play together. I will miss our one on one time and will have to find moments other times to have them again. That is my sadness!
Now for my joy, I am excited for her to be in school because she is really excited to be going. She is eager to experience some of the things the boys have enjoyed. She loves to learn and will enjoy the social opportunities as well.

She looked so beautiful today. My heart was breaking to see her growing up before My eyes. We had gone shopping at the beginning of the week to pick out "the outfit". It was perfect and she looked so adorable and sweet. We even made sure her toe nails and fingernails were looking beautiful.

The teacher allowed us to come in with her for a few minutes. We read the Kissing Hand together as a class and then I kissed Sydney's hand and she kissed mine and then Courtney's and Daddy's. I tried to hold back the tears, but failed. I think this is why she was sad and unsure. So, as long as I hold it together the rest of the year, I am sure she will do just fine.

1 day of off work+ 36 hours of reading=$35.00 and a full day of fun

2008-08-08T13:26:00.004-06:00

Mike took off work on Friday, the kids each read 12 hours to earn free passes to Elich Gardens, and The day we went worked out to be half price day for Mike and I. So we only spent $35.00 for our whole family to enjoy the park for 12 hours. I am quite literal about the 12 hours. We got to the park right after it opened and then stayed for the Carnival De Feugo show after it closed. We were feeling guilty because it was the night before the kids went back to school. The guilt only lasted a few seconds when we decided they could rest up over the weekend and what do you really learn on the first day anyway....right?

We had a great time together and felt like we got to go on most of the rides. Blake and Tanner took me on the Tower of Doom after they first rode it with Mike. I really loved do it even thought it was so so so scary! I think the going up really slow and really high and then waiting to be dropped was much worse than the actual drop.
Tanner also rode with me on the Edge ride which is a water ride where you are on a double tube and then pushed off the edge of the 90 degree slide that carries you to the top of the other side and then down again and again until you funnel through an opening and into open water. I screamed the whole time but it is okay because I had warned Tanner to be ready for me to scream.
Blake also took me on the twister roller coaster. It included hiking up a million stairs until you were higher than you could imagine and then right way dropping down and into a loop and then straight up to the top again. At the top you wait and then do it all backwards. It was also very scary!
We also went on a big raft ride where I ended up backwards the whole time until the end and finally Tanner could see why backward was so scary. Courtney loved the big raft ride that you go down and then cause a huge wave to come over the top of you. She loved telling us that she was "soaking wet" and then because the line was short she was thumbs up to go again. Mike and the boys hit some more crazy rides including the mind eraser and a huge skateboard that spun you in circles while it went back and forth in a half pipe all while you were standing up. Sydney, Courtney, and I tried out some kiddie rides. One of which was a roller coaster that we found out neither I or Blake could go on it with them (found this out after waiting in a very long hot line) so I made Sydney (much to her sadness) so that Courtney could go. I really cannot believe that I buckled my crying 5 year old and little 2 year old into a very fast roller coaster. I really did think that they would love it and be glad I insisted. Instead Sydney was really upset and Courtney looked at me like I had tricked her. It was a sad mommy moment. :(
We ate our lunch back at the Sequoia and man did those sandwiches, chips, red balls (grapes), apple slices, and rice Krispie treats taste good. We also watched a couple of shows, played in the wave pool, relaxed in the lazy river, and played in the ball house. We had a wonderful day together and really felt as though we had enjoyed every last day of our summer together.

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS FOR A WHOLE WEEK

2008-07-29T15:29:00.008-06:00

This past week we were in Steamboat Springs, Colorado to compete in the world series for Tanner's baseball team. We were lucky enough to enjoy our stay with our friends, Brian and Lisa Mulligan. Lisa's parents own a home in Steamboat and were gracious enough to allow us to stay in it. We so loved spending time with them as they are truly treasured friends. We also loved the gorgeous house and all it's comforts.
While in Steamboat we were able to ride the alpine slide. Sydney road with me and loved it fast and furious, which was okay by me.
Our next enjoyment was tubing down the Yampa river. This was so so much fun. Of course the first time I was a wee bit nervous because I had Syd and Court in my tube. Because I am not a great swimmer, I was really nervous for their safety. Courtney was unsure most of the ride while Sydney only got worried after she fell off the tube. If you ask Courtney about the experience she says "it was scary and then not scary and then scary again" So the second time, my dear sweet friend, Lisa offered to keep the little ones so that I could get the full experience of it. Sydney and Courtney went along with this and this opportunity was a double bonus because Courtney got a great nap. At the end of our ride was a 2 foot rapid which we enjoyed many times before leaving the river. One time we each tried going over it with just our life jackets and no tube. While this was fun, the best was when Blake, Tanner, Mike and I all went down on the tube together. It was a recipe for disaster and I have never laughed so hard. Of course we tipped over and we all went underwater, but it was totally great. It was so completely fun and is a memory I will never forget. I do not think Tanner will forget it either as he was pinned under water for a bit of time. When he resurfaced he looked around and realized that he saw everyone except Blake. He asked in the most loving voice if Blake was okay and was quickly reassured when he finally saw him. Usually, the mom in me would of been scared by the whole thing but I enjoyed it all so much and never believed anyone to be in real danger. It was an exhilarating laugh of complete enjoyment.
We also enjoyed the hot tub in the backyard many times. The first day the kids were in it by 7:00 a.m.
We went on a short hike to Fish Creek Falls and saw a gorgeous waterfall.
oh ya....we also had a great time watching lots of baseball. Tanner had 7 games while we were in town. They were silver bracket champions and showed that they could hang with many teams across the western United States. Tanner had his first triple of the season. He played awesome the entire week and we were very proud of him.

Camping in Estes Park for the Fourth of July

2008-07-29T15:12:00.003-06:00

We had a really really great time camping in Estes Park. We enjoyed the company of many of our friends from our ward. We arrived at our campsite on Wednesday evening and stayed until Saturday morning.

We ventured on a 6 mile hike which included daddy carrying Courtney and Sydney in the backpack for quite a long ways. I was proud of our perseverance and enjoyed the entire hike.

We also road a gondola up to a beautiful lookout. At the top we were greeted by chipmunks whom we fed peanuts right out of our hand. The chipmunk's particularly liked Courtney to feed them and this made the other sweet children of mine a little annoyed. It was so fun to do!

We also played at a family fun center where we road long racing slides, drove go carts, and sprayed each other until we were soaked on the bumber boats.

We watched a great fireworks display over the lake in Estes Park. I have to say it was the best fireworks we have seen since we left Maryland. We were spoiled in the past by the Nations capitol fireworks, Baltimore inner Harbor, and surrounding city competitors. I guess you could say that we are firework snobs and are finally semi satisfied.

We truly had a grand time camping and the best part has been the many many discussions Courtney has had with me about our trip. She loved all of it! She loved that we had to hurry in the tent at night so that the bears would not get us. She reminds us how we would zip up the windows and doors so that the bears would not get in. She loved that we all slept together in sleeping bags and put our jamma's on to do it. Lately she keeps saying that she wants to go shopping again. I finally figured out that she was thinking shopping was camping. So we will have to plan another adventure for her. Maybe we will set up the tent in the backyard and see if she is fooled????

IT HAS BEEN TOO LONG

2008-06-29T23:38:00.003-06:00

This past Saturday I got the wonderful pleasure of visiting with 4 friends from High School. My dear sweet friend, Lori Bell, emailed me to tell me that she, Darvel, Brice, and Luke would be in the Denver area. I also found out at the time that Tim and Robin lived only 20 minutes away from us. Robin hosted a barbecue get together on Saturday so that we could all catch up. It was so exciting and fun to see them and their beautiful children. Robin and Tim have a really fun back yard and because they were such wonderful hosts, we all really enjoyed ourselves. It is so strange to think back to how long ago we were together in school. Everyone seemed the same but just a little wiser. I hope to see Robin and Tim soon, since we are living so close to one another. I also really hope I will be in closer contact with Lori. We had a treasured friendship in high school and it was so easy to feel connected to her again.
On no! I just realized our 20 year reunion is only 3 years away-I am feeling quite old all of a sudden.

My 7 (or maybe 9) Quirks

2008-06-29T23:14:00.003-06:00

Kristin tagged me and I have been trying to think of my quirks the past few days. I must having trouble coming up with them so I guess I must not be a very quirky person. Here goes nothing..................

1. I do not like anything to touch my feet if they are dry. This also means that I cannot hardly walk on them if they are dry, especially at the pool.
2. I, sort of like Kristin, have to have something over some part of my body when I sleep.
3. I have this weird sensation with my neck sometimes and have to have something (like a sheet or my hand) between my chin and the top of my sternum-Not sure if that make sense, so you can ask me later if you are confused.
4. I never do things in a logical sequential order. For example: If I start cleaning out the refrigerator, I would never finish it all before I moved to something else and then back to it. I really think my brain has a little glitch in it or I am just extremely unorganized.
5. I like to eat the entire orange (peel and all.)
6. I have to fall asleep on the side facing away from my husband (or whomever happens to be sleeping with me. )
7. I am still thinking about this one.

I now tag Shannon Beckstead, Whitney Henwood, and Julie Morrison

Syd Jo turns 5!

2008-06-29T19:13:00.006-06:00

This past Wednesday, Sydney turned 5. I can hardly believe that she will be leaving me in a couple of months to go to kindergarten. It seems like just yesterday I was able to hold my sweet baby girl in my arms and celebrate her life. We had an instant love affair and have cherished every day together since. I remember thinking how fun it would be to teach her all the "lady like" attributes but she is the one who reminds me of my divine role as a lady.
Sydney continues to impress me with her poise and zest for life. She is amazing beyond her years. She listens and then thoughtfully thinks about what is said. She is dignified and respectful with others. She stands tall and sticks by her decisions. She is a kind friend and cherishes relationships. She is loving and caring in her words and actions. She can be stubborn but asserts herself with confidence and reason. She is curious about everything and takes the time to find its relevance.
She loves all things that shimmer and shine. She reminds me often that we need to celebrate the wonderful blessing and many opportunities of being a girl. She helps me to remember to enjoy beautiful things whether it is a gorgeous flower or a cute pair of earrings.
She loves her sister and brothers very much and tries to please them in all she can. She takes on her role of big sister to Courtney with pride. She thinks it is fun to help her sister and loves to teach her new things.
I am so blessed to have such a sweet spirit. I tell her often that, "The beauty she carries inside her makes her already beautiful face sparkle like a diamond." She smiles at me when I say it and it my heart melt.

We had a wonderful day together celebrating her birthday. She got breakfast in bed as is our tradition. Only, it was especially fun this time because we had to wake her up. Usually, whomever is celebrating the birthday is awake and waiting. So after breakfast she opened her presents. She loved the barbie lap top and really thinks it is just like her dads. She got an American doll trundle bed, which she is excited to invite her friend Grace and her new doll over for a sleepover. She also got a styling chair for her American doll and loves to pretend to be a real hair stylist.
After presents we got ready and met dad for lunch at the Park Meadows food court. We all shared some pizza, Chinese, and a Philly cheese steak sandwich. After lunch, Mike went back to work and we went to work shopping. We had a great time looking at all the deals and adorable girl outfits. We loved going up and down the escalator a few times. We shopped through Courtney's nap and then finished in time to pick the boys up from basketball camp. After Tanner's baseball game that evening we went out to eat at Applebees. Sydney had actually picked Chili's but Applebees had .99 kid meals that evening so we persuaded her to change the destination. It was fun to be together as a family, the food was good and we got home very late. It was a full day for the birthday girl. We plan to have a party in the next couple of weeks with her friends as her birthday week was crazy busy, her brothers were at camp all day, and her best friend was out of town. ......so, I will update you on the happenings of the party in the near future.

Blake competed in Destination Imagination

2008-05-06T23:04:00.007-06:00

Blake was asked along with 6 other classmates to participate in a Destination Imagination group for the past few months. Here is an explanation of what Destination Imagination is:
You've heard of spelling bees, quiz bowls, robotics competitions and science fairs. In fact, there is probably a special event for every subject taught at school. Well, Destination ImagiNation is none of those things – and all of those things! Destination ImagiNation is a place where kids take what they know and what they are good at and learn to apply it to solve challenges, working together and cooperatively with a team and pushing the limits of imagination to best not their competition, but themselves.
Destination ImagiNation is a community-based, school-friendly program that builds participants' creativity, problem solving, and teamwork in enjoyable and meaningful ways.
Teams of five to seven members work together to apply creativity, critical thinking and their particular talents to solve a Team Challenge.
The Destination ImagiNation Team Challenge is a Challenge that is solved over a period of eight weeks or more. There are five competitive Team Challenges from which teams may choose, each with its own educational focus. Each Team Challenge is designed to be open-ended and solvable in many ways and on many levels.
Challenge A: Technical/MechanicalChallenge B: Theater Arts/ScienceChallenge C: Theater Arts/Fine ArtsChallenge D: Theater Arts/ImprovisationChallenge E: Structural & Architectural Design.
There are two parts to the Team Challenge: the Central Challenge and Side Trips. The Central Challenge is a set of required elements that all teams must complete. Side Trips are two additional elements teams create and include in their Presentation.
The Destination ImagiNation Instant Challenge is a Challenge teams are asked to solve in a very short period of time at their Tournament, without knowing ahead of time what the Challenge will be. Teams go into a room and are given a Challenge and the materials with which to solve it. They use their thinking-on-their-feet skills to produce a solution, usually in a period of five to eight minutes!
Blake's group name was the "Righteous rookies" . They did well enough in their regional competition to qualify for state. They recently competed at the state competion (April 26) and took 8th out of 22 teams. They received the highest score on their skit and they only needed 30 more points in the instant challenge to win the competition. They received the Divinci Award for creativity. This is the special award for creativity, imagination and risk taking.
It was a lot of work but the skills they gained far outweighed the extra committment. I was so proud of Blake!

Tanner's Baseball team is doing great!

2008-05-06T23:01:00.000-06:00

Parker Sky Sox baseball bash way into World Series
The 8 and under Parker Sky Sox baseball team qualified for the Triple Crown World Series by winning the Triple Crown Baseball Bash tournament in Boulder this past weekend. They swept through the field going 5-0 for the tournament and shutting out their opponent in the championship game 6-0. The World Series tournament will be held July 21-27 in Steamboat Springs and includes some of the best teams from across the country.

Blake Michael Giles

2008-05-06T22:36:00.003-06:00

I wanted to share some words about my sweet Blakey. He is amazingly wonderful from the tip of his head to the tip of his toes. He is becoming such a mature young man. He is so very conscientious and full of integrity. He excels in everything he does and has been blessed with many talents. I am so grateful for his role as the oldest child in our family-He truely magnifies it! 10 years has just flown by since I held him in my arms for the first time. I loved him instantly and continue to love him more and more every minute.
I love that he gets excited about things. I love that he talks openly to me about his stressors and accomplishments. I love that he is always wanting to do the right thing. I love that he always kisses me and tells me he loves me, before he goes to school or anywhere. I love to watch him play sports. I love to see how much he enjoys a good book. I love to see his eyes when I suprise him with Taco Bell. I love that he lets me highlight his hair-even after I turned it orange one time. I love that he is polite and cordial to everyone. I love that he can talk to adults comfortably. I love that he is not afraid to be on stage or in the spotlight. I love that he is proud in what he can do, but humble at the same time.
I am one lucky mom to have such an amazing boy.

Courtney Allyson Giles

2008-04-07T22:22:00.005-06:00

I wanted to share some thoughts about my precious little two year old, Courtney Allyson Giles. I am blessed beyond measure to have such a sweet baby girl. I really cannot believe how quickly 2 years has passed. I have loved every precious moment of her life. I especially cherish the time we have together before bed, as I rock her and enjoy sharing with her special memories of the day we spent together. Her gentle little spirit is full of such enjoyment for the simple things. She loves to show me on her wall how the giraffe licks the pole with his tongue (she doesn't really lick the wall) and how much the peacock, with his big beautiful feathers, liked her. She shares fondness about her brothers and sister. She talks about bunnies she had noticed outside the restaurant window.
I love that I am the one that understands her every word. I love her soft sweet voice and funny expressions. I beg her to repeat over and over again, "it's otay mommy!" and "tourtney needs mommy" and Mommy hold you me?!" and "I not baby-I tourtney (with her irresistible smile on her face) and "tank you"
I love that she is so quick to forgive and so willing to say sorry.
I love that she loves to read stories to me and always gets me to play chase with her every night as I am trying to put on her pajamas.
I love that she loves to carry around her purse and fill it with every girl thing she can find (or borrow from Sydney).
I feel amazing gratitude for her and cherish every breath she takes! I love her deeply with all my heart and soul!!!

Blake is 2 digits!!

2008-04-07T22:12:00.003-06:00

We celebrated Blake's birthday this past Saturday. The day started out great for him with breakfast in bed. A great flag football practice and game. A yummy lunch and all chocolate birthday cake. We then drove an hour to Tanner's baseball tournament where Blake became very very ill. He spent the remainder of his birthday sicker than I have ever seen him. It broke my heart to see him so sick and especially on his birthday. Mike gave him two priesthood blessings. Finally, after the second one (3:00a.m) he was able to sleep.
We tried to make it up to him and took him to PF Chang's for his favorite Chinese food. I forgot to take my camera, to capture the sweet smiling face of a boy who re-discovered food. We had a really nice time as a family. Lots of laughs, smiles, and good old fashioned cherished time together. He has a birthday party scheduled for this Wednesday. I will keep you posted.

2008-04-02T23:40:00.001-06:00

We had an enjoyable time at the Littleton Historical Museum. We went with Sydney's preschool class.
Notice the purse-Courtney carried it the entire day! :)

2008-04-02T23:34:00.002-06:00

This was Sydney with her Cousin, Rachael.Here is a great shot (before my battery died :-( ). You can place crackers on their tongues-It is really cool!

Visitors

2008-04-02T23:20:00.002-06:00

We really do feel very loved when anyone comes to see us. We have been blessed to have lots of visitors over the past 2 1/2 years. Our most recent guests were Mike's oldest sister, Shelly, her husband and 4 children (Jared, Jake, Rachael and Josh). John and Sharon (Mike's parents) hoped in with them and made the trip as well. We had a really great time while they were here. The boys loved playing some basketball with their cousins. Sydney loved having Rachael sleep in her room with her. Courtney wanted Grandpa all the time (sorry Grandma)

We went to Colorado Springs for the day and enjoyed Garden of the Gods and the Zoo. Unfortunately, my camera ran out of batteries before I could take any pictures at the zoo. We had a really great time with the Girafe's )Courtney still shows me how the girafe's have really long tongues. She loved that the peecock followed her around. She talks about how stinky the monkey house was. She loved being inside the bird house and watching them land on sticks feeding on bird seed. It really was a great day and is a really fun Zoo.

It was also really fun for Courtney that everyone arrived on her birthday!

2008-04-02T23:16:00.001-06:00

Blake has just earned his "Bear" and now is officially a "Weeblo" . He especially loves that his dad is one of the weeblos leaders.

Follow the Leader

2008-04-02T23:08:00.003-06:00

The boys are off track for 3 weeks. The weather was beautiful so we decided to go for a bike ride. Blake had a great idea to play follow the leader. We took turns deciding where we would venture to next. We went very far from home and had a lot of uphill on the way back home but had an abbsolutely fabulous time together. This is deffinately one of my favorite activities to do with my family.

2008-04-02T22:26:00.001-06:00

Courtney celebrated her 2nd birthday with 3 other of her 2 year old friends (Ainslee, Jessica, and tate) and of course her sister, Sydney. We also let the boys come home from school for 45 minutes to enjoy Courtney's party.We played games, ate donuts, jumped on the trampoline, and played with toys. It was very fun. The cutest was when Courtney opened her presents. I had given her a pink trunk full of baby clothes, bottles...etc...When she opened the present, her face became real serious and then she started running up the stairs saying, "I have to get my baby" -It was priceless to see her so excited!
I can hardly believe she is 2 years old already. I love that I am her mom-I cherish her everyday-especially her smile and laugh!

Aunt Susie and Cousin Jennie came to visit

2008-03-06T15:04:00.002-07:00

okay...I am sad...I just realized I only took these pictures while Aunt Susie and Cousin Jennie were visiting. I did not even get one shot of Jennie :(
Anyway, we had a really nice time hanging out with them. We appreciate that they came to see us. The boys were especially excited that they got to show off in their basketball games for Susan and Jennie.

The girls are posing with their dog purses. Courtney got this one from Aunt Susie a few months ago and then Sydney got this new one from Aunt Susie during her visit. The girls love to be spoiled by her. The boys loved all the strawberry frapachinos (spelling?) they were able to enjoy courtesy of Aunt Susie.

Jennie spoiled us all with a Jamba Juice-Yum! Yum!

Aunt Susie went to Sydney's Valentine party at school and helped Courtney decorate a cookie.

Mostly we just hung out and visited. If you ask Susan what remembers most about the trip,she would probably comment on the number of times we went to target.

Oh and by the way. I am out of order with this one. They actually visited before Chris and Rikki....oops!!

Blake at the Pinewood Derby

2008-03-06T14:48:00.002-07:00

Blake's car was designed to look like a skateboard. He was a little disapointed that he did not win most creative again this year. However, he did take first place in one of his heats and he faired out in the middle of the pack for overall times. Blake's friend Jake said, "You come with dreams and spirit and leave crushed" we all got a laugh out of that!

I have to say I felt extremely nervous when he first tried to weigh in his car. It weighed in at almost 2 pounds and needed to be at 5 pounds. We had to add 37 pennies, two quarters and 2 nickles to have it weigh in at 5 pounds. Not to worry Blake because we have big hopes for next year!

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs

2008-03-06T14:24:00.004-07:00

Chris and Rikki came to visit us. We went to Colorado Springs to enjoy Garden of the God's and see the cliff Dwellings. The weather was gorgeous (67 degrees) and the sights were beautiful! We just love them and love that they wanted to come hang out with us.

Oh what fun we had on the field trips

2008-03-06T14:11:00.002-07:00

Sydney's preschool had two field trips in one day. First, we went to Inta Juice to see how our favorite smoothies are made. We got to tour the back room which included going into the freezer (3 degrees). We got to see ourselves on the security camera (Syd loved this) and then watch the smoothie being made. The best part was we got to try one!

After Ina juice we went to Boston's to make our own personal pan pizza. Sydney loved doing this as she loves to help me cook. The pizza she made was delicious!

In this picture is her really great friend, Grace McConkie. We brought her with us and Courtney stayed home with Grace's mom, Wendy. It was nice to be able to focus on this time with Sydney. Courtney had a great time learning where her arm pit is with Wendy :-)

Sydney the Paleontologist!

2008-03-06T14:06:00.003-07:00

Sydney was given a homework assignment to crack an ice block to uncover the artifact of a dinosaur. She really enjoyed it!

Blake+Basketball=Watch out....opposing team!!!!!

2008-03-06T13:35:00.007-07:00

I love to watch Blake play basketball! He plays hard! He gives it everything he has! Because of his "not on my watch attitude" and great fundamentals, Blake is a tough defensive player. He also has great form and made many baskets this season. It was a tough beginning for his team (with only 2 wins and 10 losses) but ended with a chance to play at Denver University for the championship game. They played hard and came close to winning.

For the team it was more about celebrating the time they had on DU's court instead of the loss.

Tanner...."The force to be reckened with"

2008-03-06T13:13:00.004-07:00

Tanner with 2 of his best buds-Josh Morris and Drew Baller-celebrating a great game and great season!

The kid has hops! (Blake captured this fabulous picture)
Tanner loves basketball-you can see it on his face at all the practices and games. He has excellent ball handling skills and moves. He can shoot from all around the perimeter or dribble in for the soft layup. He is an unselfish player who made many great passes to his teammates. He is blessed with great talent and an especially humble dispositon. I am so proud of him!

Mike and his great assistant coach, John Baller, coached the team to a 10 wins 2 loss season. They did a great job coaching! Mike truely enjoyed the time he spent with the boys.

The girls and I were his biggest fans!!

OK...I have been tagged.....here goes.......

2008-02-26T22:37:00.004-07:00

HUSBAND SURVEY
What is his name? John Michael Giles
How long have you been married? 12 years in June
How long did you date? Almost one year
How old is he? 34
Who eats more? He does, except for when I am pregnant!!
Who said "I love you" first? He did!!
Who gave the 1st kiss? He did. He sort of tricked me. It was romantic none the less.
Who sings better? He would say he does. I cannot say for sure because I cannot tell what is on key and what is off key-it all sounds the same to me :-) j/k I am not musical at all.
Who is smarter? He is for sure.
Whose temper is worse? Sadly I would say me, although we are both pretty calm with one another.
Who does the laundry? Absolutely me.
Who does the dishes? Absolutely me
Who pays the bills? I do.
Who mows the lawn? He does mostly but I love to do it when I have time.
Who cooks dinner? I do. Mike does make better breakfast than I do.
Who drives when you are together? He does...If I ever do-he is a nervous wreck.
Who is more stubborn? That would be me.
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? He is for sure. I like to pout a little longer.
Whose parents do we see the most? Lately Mine! We do not see either as much as we would like.
Who has more friends? I would say that I do.
Who proposed? He did
Who has more siblings? We both have 3 siblings
Who wears the pants? Probably I do.
Now I get to tag!!!! I choose: Mendy Hunter, Tracy Obering, and Whiteny Henwood ....
.......Have fun ladies!

Sydney and her American Doll

2008-01-26T00:07:00.001-07:00

What Sydney wanted most for Christmas was an American Doll.

Meet Allie ,London, or Brittney (depending on the day). Sydney takes especially great care of her. She just loves her. I love to see her love her.

A winter wonderland of fun

2008-01-25T23:57:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time riding the snowmobiles with Aunt Jodi and Uncle Eric. The kids took turns on the back of Eric and then took turns on the kid snowmobile. Mom got to drive Eric's snowmobile and even took dad for a ride on the back of her. Aunt Jodi even went for a ride. Since it was New Year's Eve day we ended our day with a night of fun at Grandma and Grandpa Giles. We really enjoyed our full day together. We love you all so much!!

A snowmobile "Just their size"

2008-01-25T23:53:00.000-07:00

The boys had a great time playing with Grandma and Grandpa's Kid snowmobile. They rode it every chance they got. This time they were at the church park. As time went on they hooked a sled to the back of it and one drove while the other rode on the sled.

Such a fun night we all had

2008-01-25T23:44:00.000-07:00

2008-01-25T23:36:00.000-07:00

My Dana-banana was so lovely in her fancy suite.
Odie Bird and Elik were also looking so cute.

Gary and Dax were also looking quite Dapper.

Mauuukel and Der-Der's and Marisol

2008-01-25T23:29:00.000-07:00

It was so good to get to see them. It was especially wonderful to have everyone together for such a special occasion. Dereck's girlfriend is such a sweet doll-she deffinately has my vote.
My little Nephews are growing up way too fast. I am very proud of the three of them.

My mommy and Daddy

2008-01-25T23:25:00.000-07:00

They were as pretty as a picture!! I was so happy to get to see them during this wedding trip. I am so grateful for them. I love them dearly with all my heart forever and always!!

2008-01-25T23:13:00.000-07:00

Such gentlemen they were the entire night and always. I am so proud of what amazing little boys I have.
They were the cutest ring bears!!!
They loved being able to wear a tuxedo. It was so funny when we went to try on the tuxedo's because they had mis sized Tanner. He came out with Capri's on and at first I thought Chris was myabe going of the capri length look. But since everything was so tight and Blake came out with the traditional look. We just had a good laugh and asked what chance we had in getting some more appropriately sized clothes.

This is as they were exiting the wedding. They were so so adorable!!

2008-01-25T23:09:00.000-07:00

Cousin "Hashley" got all the love. Coutney would chant :)Hashley....Hashley...Hashley!!! When everyone would try to get her to say their name, she would start chanting "Hashley" again.

We love you, Ashley!!

2008-01-25T23:06:00.000-07:00

Courtney was oh...so...enjoying her cousin, Erica.
Do they look exactly alike or what????She was very spoiled with love and attention from her.
We love you "ErKa"

Handsome Chris

2008-01-25T22:57:00.000-07:00

The girls love Ricki so much. She is so loving and sweet to them.
-Such a Beautiful Bride She is-

I was so glad to be able to attend the wedding. He was so excited to begin his married life with Ricki. Their love is true and it showed very much in both of their faces.

My beautiful flower girls

2008-01-25T22:45:00.000-07:00

Sydney and Courtney were so darling as flower girls in Chris (my nephew) and Ricki's (my now niece in-law) wedding. It was a gorgeous wedding and the girls loved the special part that they played in it. It was so breathtaking to watch Sydney walk down the isle taking such care to drop the roses. Courtney was so darling and quite hilarious as she followed Sydney and said "dirty-I clean" as she would pick up the flowers that Sydney had just dropped. I was of course in tears and holding on to every sweet moment of it.

COURTNEY TURNS ONE YEARS OLD

2007-12-23T22:43:00.000-07:00

I am trying to back track as you can see. I am going back to all the stuff I did not post when I should have.

This is a picture of Courtney on her first birthday. We had a simple little party and invited only the Morris Family and Lane Family. It was so nice to stand around and stare at our sweet beautiful little girl. She was eating up the attention and putting on quite the show for us.

She loved the Cold stone Creamery Cake I got her and enjoyed opening her gifts. She was so pretty in pink!!

we just call him "Bank"

2007-12-23T22:26:00.000-07:00

Our dear sweet little "bakey" is a all about the money. He counts his money daily and exchanges denominations periodically at the bank. Sometimes he is in the mood for a couple large bills and lots of dollar bills. Other times he is in the mood for lots of little money and no large bills. He will not spend it for anything. He will loan it to you if you must but, reminds you constantly to pay him back. Thankfully, he recently just put all his cash into the bank after Our Bishop told him about a devastating flood his family had endured when he was about his age. Blake did like hearing about the possibility of his money being washed down to river if a flood suddenly came through our house. Mike and I were relieved to know he put the money in a much safer place. Although, we miss having our bank to borrow from.

Off to see Santa and ride the train

2007-12-23T22:03:00.000-07:00

Our community Association puts together a Santa visit every year. This particular year they also included a train for the kids to ride around the neighborhood. Unfortunately, Mike was waiting for Courtney to wake up from a nap (I was with Sydney at the Disney Princess on Ice Show) so they arrived as it was ending. They did not get to sit on Santa's lap, but they did get to see him drive away in his SUV (while talking on his cell phone). The train conductor was nice enough to give them a ride before he began to put it away. They also got to see a real reindeer. Afterward, they went sledding down Chaparral hill. Mike told me he took Courtney down the hill on
his lap and allowed her to ride down with Blake. If you could only see how steep this hill is then you would understand how panicked this made me feel. He said that she really

enjoyed herself and kept wanting to do it. This still did not make me relax about it. And even though he tried to convince me that she is our high adventure baby ...Dad was on the couch that night:)

Dress Up

2007-12-23T21:50:00.000-07:00

My sweet girls were helping me clean up the basement the other day. Except their idea of cleaning up was to try on all the dress up clothes. We had a great time together as always and actually did get the basement cleaned.

Courtney tries so hard to be like her big "sissy". She put on shoes and carried a purse with a camera and phone in it. She carried the baby around while she pretended to be the mommy.

It was just darling to hear her repeat Sydney's soft words to the baby. The funniest was when she would take a picture of me (which she did about 50 times) holding the baby. She would place the baby in my arms and ask the baby if she could take a picture ("picture baby?"-she would say). She would then prompt the baby to say cheese and smile. It was oh too cute.

How could I be so lucky to be their mom?????

Holiday Cheer

2007-12-22T21:59:00.000-07:00

We went to our friends, the Mulligans, for dinner this evening. We had a really great time with their family. The kids had a great time playing and decorating a gingerbread house together. We are blessed to have such good friends.

Thanksgiving in Pahrump

2007-12-18T14:53:00.000-07:00

My sweet sister, Dana, captured this wonderful memory of the past Thanksgiving. We spent it at my parents home in Pahrump, Nevada. All my sisters, brother-in-laws, my Aunt Barbra, my cousin Blair and his best friendand almost all of my nieces and nephews were together. (We were missing Ramsey, Ricki, and Amed).

My parents sweet little house was just perfect for the occasion. The food could not of been more delicious. Spending time together as a family is what this special day of Thanksgiving is all about. We enjoyed plenty of great conversation and catching up.

Not to take away from any of our previous Thanksgivings because they are always such a special time but, this just topped them all. I am so glad we each came to celebrate together. I Love you all very much!!!!

Brotherly love

2007-12-17T23:47:00.000-07:00

You would think I was lying if I told you they never fight. So I won't lie to you-they fight like cats and dogs! Thank goodness they are quick to forgive and forget. They really do enjoy one another most of the time and especially because I remind them daily to have "brotherly love".

Are they starting to look more like me?????

Dressed for church

2007-12-17T23:44:00.000-07:00

We are planning to send out New Years cards this year instead of Christmas cards. This is because I am an unorganized mess (Well.... that too... but really there is a higher purpose). The kiddos have been asked to be in their cousin Chris' wedding on December 29th. Blake and Tanner will be the ring bearers and Sydney and Courtney will be the flower girls. We just know the pictures will be irresistible, so we wanted to send them out to everyone. So for now, please do not think for one second that we do not want to wish you well this Christmas season. Stay tuned.....

Courtney is gettting so big

2007-12-17T23:37:00.000-07:00

Here is a darling picture of Courtney. Isn't she getting big???? She is growing way too fast. I can hardly handle it. She talks in full complete sentences and is sharp as a whip. She brightens our days with her warm smile and sweet disposition. She loves to play "get you" and tell on whomever is not "nice". I could just eat her for breakfast-she is so delicious. yum....yum!!!

Sydney and mom went on a date

2007-12-17T23:13:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, Sydney and I went on a date to see Disney on Ice Princess Wishes. We both had a blast and Sydney said every part was her favorite part. She even wished she could watch it again and again and again. We had great seats, a snow cone, and pizza. I was so excited to spend time with no one else but my sweet Sydney Jo.

Did I tell you I went to Boston in the fall?

2007-12-17T22:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, I really did. On the 12th of October I went with Mike (yepper.... only Mike...no kids) on a business trip to Boston. We spent 2 nights, 1 full day, 2 half days touring the city (well, actually Mike was stuck in some fancy hotel while I toured the city). It was so refreshing to be totally on my own to see whatever I wanted to see. Sydney could not understand why I wanted to be by myself and not with her. I reassured her that I always prefer being with her but once in awhile it is okay for mommy to escape. The kids were in the safe hands of my in-laws (thank you-thank you-thank you) being spoiled with soda and pizza.

I was able to see freedom trail in depth, read an entire book (Eclipse), eat at a Magianos, tour Fenwick Park (I know I am weird, most ladies would of chosen to shop), and tour an art gallery. It was a cheep and refreshing trip. And now I can finally say I have seen Boston in the fall.

Tanner's 7th birthday

2007-12-17T22:11:00.000-07:00

Tanner just celebrated his 7th birthday. He had a full birthday weekend which started on the eve of his birthday at his favorite chinese restaurant. The next morning, his birthday, was greeted withbreakfast in bed. He was served pancakes, bacon, strawberries, and whip cream in the form of a smiley face. Mom added a trick candle in the middle of the pancake nose. Tanner was fooled as he tried many times to blow out the candle. We all got quite the kick out of it.

His close guy friends, Drew, Josh, Jeremiah, Jake, and Tyler arrived shortly after breakfast. We had a little set back at the field house because they did not have space for us. Mom was especially sad because she had gotten a baby sitter to watch the girls while she run around with the boys. Thankfully we persevered and found the nearest church building gym to be empty and began a good game of basketball. We were kicked out after 30 minutes and so we returned home. We played a volleyball game (yes...in the house) , made slime, and shake and make vanilla ice cream. All the kids loved the ice cream and especially loved that we were able to eat the cake and ice cream before the pizza.

After the party we headed to Blake's basketball game. On our way home from the game we dropped off Mike and Tanner at batting practice. We picked them up and headed for Monkey Business to join a birthday party the whole family was invited to. It was a cold winter night and Mike helped a stranded car get off the median. Once we were back in Stonegate we drive around and looked at Christmas lights.

At last it is Tanner's actual birthday. We headed off to church where he was sung to in Primary. After church we played in our backyard and built a fort in the snow. Tanner and mom went to a baptismal preview to talk about Tanner's baptism which is now only 1 year away. After the preview they drove around to look at Christmas light again.

On Monday morning we headed to King Soopers (grocery store) to get lion house frosted cookies with candy cane sprinkles for his class. He was sung to again at school and then after school was able to pick out a new Element skateboard. At last his birthday is complete...until next year....

I cannot believe he is 7 years old. It seems like just yesterday I was at the baby shower honoring his uproaching birth. I love my little Tanner fanner fo fanner so incredibly much. I am so especially grateful for his loving heart and honest spirit.

Halloween

2007-12-17T21:31:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post some pictures of my kids from Halloween. My wonderful little man, Tanner, was the cutest clown you have ever seen. It warmed my heart that he wanted to be a clown and He is the first child of mine to let me paint his face.
Sydney was an East Side High Cheerleader (by the way, Mike wanted me to tell you that his junior year they defeated East High and extended their 18 game loosing streak in football). She even let me put a few curls in her hair and of course her everyday pony tail. She wants me to sign her up for cheerleading camp. The recreation has a class coming up that I think she would enjoy.
Blake was.....you guessed it....A GANGSTER. What can I say I was weak when he told me that just because he wanted to dress up like a gangster did not mean he was one. He also reminded me not to judge people. In the end he looked very hansome in the pinstripped suit and did a wonderful "put your hands up and give me all your money" impersonation.
Courtney was a moo cow. She looked darling and when asked what a cow says she would always say moo. Although, she said that for any animal you asked about, up until yesterday.
We had a great time at our Ward trunk or treat where we got lots of candy. We had a fun time at the wildlife experience where we got lots of candy. We had an enjoyable time trick or treating around our neighborhood. Courtney and Blake were the champion trick or treaters. The rest of us were cold and decided to go back home and give out candy.

Camping In Colorado

2007-09-27T23:16:00.000-06:00

So.....we went camping a few weeks ago. This I could say was our first family camping trip. I really cannot believe it was the first one but....it was! Anyway... we headed to Sedalia (45 minutes from home which took us out of the plains of Kansas deep into the forest of Colorado) on Friday early evening. When we pulled into the campground Blake asked, "Is anyone going to be here that we know?" I assured him that it was just us :). Just then he looked over and noticed one of his friends. We drive closer and sure enough it was two families from our ward. They invited us to hang with them for the night. Mike of course liked that we only had to pay $5.00 for the site. So we went for it. I am so glad we did. We liked the two families and they had kids very much our children's ages. You could say each there was someone for everyone. We shared food, fire wood (which happened to be great that we had brought firewood-even though Mike thought I was silly for purchasing it), and good stories. The next morning we chilled for most of the morning (took time to smell the flowers-see the picture) and then drove 30 minutes up the mountain to Hike Devils Head. It was a great hike of 1 1/2 miles (straight up hill). Once at the top you could climb a billion (okay maybe not that many-but it sure was straight up a long ways) to lookout all over the Denver area. the point of the tower is a fire watch. A 75 year old man lives in a small cabin at the bottom of the stairs for the summer. His job is to stand in the lookout tower and watch for forest fires. I think this was his 20th year (or there abouts) of doing this. It was a beautiful sight and a fun adventure for our family.

Sydney on her first day of preschool

2007-09-23T23:04:00.000-06:00

Sydney started real preschool. If you recall last year we did a mother goose preschool with other ward members. This year Sydney is going to Mrs. Julie's preschool on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. She is really enjoying herself! She especially loves having her "boy that is a friend" Jake Morris and her good friend Grace McConkie in class with her.

Syney and Courtney

2007-09-23T22:54:00.000-06:00

We are having lots of girl time while the boys are at school. We do hair and nails daily and strike various poses continually. They are the best of friends and the closest of sisters. I am so blessed to be thier mom and spend my days with them.

2007-09-23T22:16:00.000-06:00

Tanner is playing baseball again this fall. He is playing kid pitch for the first season and is the only 6 year old on the team. He has suffered a few strike outs which has been an adjustment for him. But, he has had the opportunity to pitch, play first base, second base, catcher, and center field. He has done an amazing job at each of the positions. He really is a gifted athlete and is mature beyond his age. It is such a pleasure to watch him play and especially fun to see his enthusiasm for sports.

2007-09-23T22:03:00.000-06:00

This was taken on the first day of school. In front of Pine Grove Elementary. Blake was excited to be back at school with his buddies and new Teacher, Mrs. Lucus. He seemed so mature as he headed into the fourth grade. Tanner was all smiles as he was thinking mostly about how fun recess would be and a little concerned about what first grade would be like.
I cried like a baby as my Tanner began his first full day at school. It just seemed like yesterday I was sending Blake to school for his first full day. Man how time flies..........when you are having fun (of course)

Too Smart!

2007-09-23T21:47:00.000-06:00

My dear sweet Courtney is too smart. The other day she came into the kitchen and said, "C'mon." She then motioned for me to follow her into the bathroom. Once in the bathroom she stood in front of the toilet (fully clothed) and leaned her bottom up against the front of the toilet. After she finished her business in her diaper, she put two pieces of toilet paper in the toilet, flushed the toilet and said "All done." She then said "hands" so I could help her wash her hands. It was so funny and cute. I really think that in her mind she had done it just like it is suppose to be done.

Getting Started

2007-08-29T23:04:00.000-06:00

Well.... I better just start writing and see where it takes me. My dear friend Mendy Hunter helped me set up my blog a few months ago and until now I have yet to post anything. Not any longer the case.

Here is an update on my family: Blake is playing competitive soccer. He plays either goalie or defender (I believe that is the name of the position) Anyway, he is playing mostly defense these days. He takes on each game with a NOT ON MY WATCH attitude and it shows. He gives it his all in both body and spirit. I also love to watch him encourage his teammates both in failure and triumph. He is a natural leader and athlete.

Blake is loving 4th grade. He has an especially wonderful teacher. After attending Back to school night I could see why he respects her so much. She genuinely loves to teach and truly believes in her students abilities and reaching their goals. I think he is going to have a great year and I expect him to learn much. Of course Pine Grove (his elementary school) is top notch. It is an amazingly wonderful institution.

When Blake is not at school, doing his homework, or at soccer practice he loves to hang out with friends. He has lots of friends and together they enjoy skateboarding, biking, and playing any and every sport. He also loves to count his stash of money. He presently has $200.00 in 1 dollar bills that he keeps in the pocket of his robe. It kills Mike that he does not have it in the bank earning interest. It kills me that he loans it to me all the time willingly but constantly reminds me to pay him back. He does not like to spend his money. Hopefully this will serve him well throughout life.

Tanner is loving First grade. He also has a wonderful teacher. He is doing fantastic in every way. His reading is improving rapidly as well as his confidence. He especially loves to have two real recesses where he can play kickball, four square, basketball, and soccer. All the girls seem to think he is cute and of course he has his list of cute girls he likes to talk about. He has lots and lots of buddies in his class and on the other tracks. When he is not at school he is playing fall baseball and flag football. He is a natural athlete and is good at whatever he plays. This season in baseball he is being introduced to kid pitch. He has pitched one inning and has played some first, second, third , and catcher positions. He doesn't seem to have a favorite position as he loves all of them. He loves all sports!!!

Tanner is also starting to get the hang of skateboarding. He has decided that his board is too slow and would like a new board for his birthday or Christmas. So for now Blake lets him use his nice element board.

Sydney had her first day of preschool this past Tuesday. She was unsure for about 1 minute and then loved every other minute of it. She has a very fun teacher names Mrs. Julie. Sydney will go for 2 1/2 hours on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. The rest of the time she gets to hang out with her little sister and mom. She is the sweetest big sister and totally tries to mother her. She is always available with open arms when Courtney gets hurt or discouraged over something. They are the best of friends and it warms my heart.

Sydney has decided she would like to play some basketball and soccer instead of taking dance again. So we will sign her up for some classes through the Parker Recreation Center.
Sydney is all about the accessories. She loves purses, necklaces, bracelets, shoes, stylish clothes, hair clips, etc... She is all girl with a flare of her brothers in her. She is positively confident in herself and shows this through her poise. She is strong spirited and determined. I love spending time with her while Courtney is napping in the afternoons. We often play house or do crafts.

Courtney is oh too sweet and wonderful. She has lots to say and says everything so cute. My heart melts when I hear her say words like chip, towel, Sydney, Tanner, Blake, open, do it, thank you, uh huh, pretty, and many more. She has the blondest hair and will sometimes let me sneak a pretty in it.

Courtney loves to follow her sister around. She loves to swing and slide. She loves to ride in the stroller and bike trailer. She especially loves to take baths which works out to be about 2 a day, because she gets so incredibly messy when she eats.

I am excited to have time with just her while Sydney is at preschool. I am sure I will be tempted to run errands sometimes but, even that is special because of how good natured she is.