COURTNEY TURNS ONE YEARS OLD

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"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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!

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

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.