stitt family

Chuck E. Cheese: Birthday dinner

2011-01-06T14:19:00.000-08:00

Since Zach missed his traditional "going out to eat" birthday dinner, he chose to go to Chuck E. Cheese's after his baptism. Aunt Aubrey came with us and helped a bunch by going around with us to the games and arcades.
Zach and dad liked playing the shooting games.
Our all time favorite game and the one that allotted us the most tickets was the shark game. You had to try and hit down the sharks heads with your hands when they would pop up. We all loved being together and having fun. The boys both earned an airhead candy, a disappearing token box and some toy frogs. Kirsten earned some candy and some frogs as well. What a memorable day...but it wasn't over yet.
When we were home in Washington over Thanksgiving, my parents sent home Christmas money. We stopped at Toysrus on the way home and the kids picked out some toys. They were all really excited to get home and try them out. Zach got a pen that shoots rubber bands. Kirsten got a moving kitten and some tarty candy. Caleb got a big package of mini cars. Thanks Grandpa and Grandma!

Zach's Baptism day! Dec. 4, 2010

2011-01-06T13:35:00.000-08:00

We were so excited that Zach chose to get baptized! Here we all are on his big day.
He was so blessed to have his primary teacher, Sis. Kirkland come.
I was a little disappointed that we couldn't have Zach baptized while visiting in Washington where more family could attend, but we were and are really blessed to have great family and friends who are as close as family here in Utah. The Laing family, the Cook family, the Kirkland family minus dad, and Camille, Aubrey and Caitlin all were able to come and show their support for Zach. Rachel was planning on coming, but Ellie got the chickenpox. We missed them.
Makayla and Zach were the two that were baptisms from the SpringCreek 14th ward.
I'm so proud of the young man that you are becoming Zach! We love you and are glad that you are part of our family forever.

The forever drive home!

2011-01-06T13:14:00.001-08:00

The frost, snow and ice look beautiful if your not our in it; especially if your not driving out in it.
It was foggy and cold when we set out on Sunday to head for home. Little did we know it would be a looooooooooooooong day of driving. Our usual 9 hour trip took us 18 hours with the snow and icy roads. This is after being detoured through Pocatello too because of the high snow drifts on the borders of Utah and Idaho.
All the kids were buckled in nice and tight.
We had a packed car and the kids were all nice and cozy with their blankets and pillows.
We love you Grandma and Grandpa...until next time.

Other activities over Thanksgiving

2011-01-06T13:02:00.000-08:00

Another tradition is making german hotcakes for breakfast. Grandma and Kirsten made them one of the mornings we were there. As always, they were delicious!
Mike and Dorothy were starting to move things into their new house...which is gorgeous by the way! They did most of the work themselves with help from family. We helped do some unpacking. Unpacking isn't fun, but having help and that help being family makes it funner. We loved being with our family and being able to help them if even a little bit. After a little work pizzas always a good idea. All the kids could fit around the bar counter with a little sharing of stools.

That pizza even looks good enough to each now!

Thanksgiving in Washington- Zach's 8th B-day!

2011-01-06T12:40:00.000-08:00

My son turned 8 years old on Thanksgiving! He is becoming such a little man and we are so proud of him. Since his birthday was going to fall over Thanksgiving, thought it only fair that we give him voice as to where he wanted to spend it... Hands down he chose to go to WA to be with our family. He was in heaven with his Uncles, Grandparents, and cousins.
Grandpa and Grandma stocked him with new "tech decks" and ramps for his birthday. He couldn't have been happier and spend many hours playing with them and changing their wheels and boards.
Since he is going to be a cub scout now... it is tradition to get the scout uniform and the wolf book. He actually had a pretty good response even if it was clothes for his birthday.
He was excited about his new digital/video camera with video games. He had fun taking pictures of all the activity with cousins. The games came in handy on the long ride home.
Eating cake with cousins. Thanks Aunt Dorothy and Uncle Mike for baking my cake. It was just the way I like it yellow on the inside and chocolate covered on the outside. Yummy!
Everyone enjoyed it while still trying to make room after the big dinner.
Gloria having her healthier choice of apples. She's diabetic and has to keep an eye on her sugar intake. How not fun!
David on the other hand gets to eat all the sweets that he can find. Much to the dismay of our mother!
Zach's birthday wouldn't be complete unless he got to play his favorite game of "Sorry." What a perfect end to a perfect day! We love you Zach!

Thanksgiving in Washington!

2011-01-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

Name tags are a tradition that the kids like to do for Thanksgiving. Kaylee, Kiera, Kassidy, and Mikenna made the feathered turkeys and Kirsten used Grandma's stamps to make the other ones. Some families don't have to do this, but when you have alot of people (18) in attendance...it makes for an easier time.
Kirsten keeping busy making her name place settings.
Another tradition for the kids is making the o'dourve turkey. It always seems we are seeing more eating going on than putting on the turkey body. It's a fun tradition and gives the kids something to prepare.
We enjoyed our time together just hanging around. Cute Mikenna helping to demonstrate while we were waiting for everyone to take their seats for the feast!

With my family coming we needed more space. The kids had two tables in the family room. It's so much fun to have cousins!
Zach's 8th birthday fell on Thanksgiving and so we tried to combine the two. Notice the VIP on his chair and Grandma also got some noise blowers.
Kirsten being silly before the feast.
The feast has begun... YUM!
We dished up over in the kitchen using the island and the counters. We had a ton of food.

David is more than ready to eat. I can just hear him saying, "everyone sit down already so we can eat!" Mom found these pretty goblets and the adults got to use them. Mom always makes the whole picture perfect even down to the display of the table settings.
Dad and his older sister, Gloria taking a pic before the food is dished up.
We are so lucky to have our dad's mom and dad with us and doing so well. They joined us for dinner and visiting.
Amazing enough we still had room for pie after dinner and cake. There is always room for sweets in my book!
We had a great evening visiting then it was time to say goodbye. Bundle up it's cold out there.

Thanksgiving in Washington-snow!

2011-01-06T09:47:00.000-08:00

Uncle David's fun with the 4-wheeler!We were surprised to find so much snow in Washington when we went to visit at Thanksgiving! The kids were thrilled to play in it though! Kirsten enjoying one of Uncle David's toys!

Zach going for a ride! "Look no hands"
Uncle David would take the kids up the road to the dead end; then ...
..bring them back.
Caleb looks like he was enjoying his ride. Although, I did hear after the fact that he got dumped off.
He decided to ride with Uncle Joe after that. Joe just turned 12 the week before. Man time flies.
Caleb decided the old fashioned sledding down the hill in the back was good enough for him.
And back up he comes. Notice this year he has to carry his own sled.
And down he spins. Thanks for the fun in the snow Uncle Joe, Uncle David, and Grandpa.

David's mission call!

2011-01-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

On November 12, 2010 one of my baby brother's, David received his mission call to Recife, Brazil! This was really exciting for our family because it has taken so much time and healing for this to come into play...David and his lost finger. Congratulations David! We are so proud of you! You will be a great missionary!
Opening the letter...

Look at mom's face...it's like she is on pins and needles waiting for the grand announcement of Recife, Brazil....
The letter with the mission extension.
All of the married sibling that don't live in Washington were on speaker phone for the announcement...Lisa & MJ in CA, Nathan & I in UT, Corinne & Spencer in ID, and Chris & Melissa in CA.
Then we each got to talk to the new prospective "Elder Gale." This was exciting. We then started working on a time when we could all make it home for when David would go through the temple...tricky indeed!

Gymnastic 2010

2011-01-06T08:51:00.000-08:00

Kirsten had a blast again this year in gymnastics! She improved so much and really worked hard. She was so into it that she would then come home and teach her brothers. They were tumbling all over the house.
Ella, one of our neighborhood friends was even in Kirsten's class. That made it so much more enjoyable to have a friend in the group!

Kirsten on the vault doing a "front shoot through"

Kirsten on the bars...not her favorite, but she did her best and did well in her efforts.

Kirsten worked really hard and was able to do her cartwheel. Way to go!

Back walk overs...she is still working on these, but she was able to become more flexible and that is quick the accomplishment!

Halloween 2010

2011-01-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

The kids were more willing to take out the goo this year...as long as a spoon was available!
The finished masterpieces with a little laughter thrown in.
Just liked this one! Usually, it's Caleb with his tongue sticking out...now we know where Caleb learned it!
I helped out with Zach's 2nd grade party. My station was the cookie decorating. When I picked this center I thought it would be one of the easier ones. Granted that was true, it wasn't the cheapest...or maybe I just went overboard. Either way the kids had fun and most of all so did Zach. There was alot of piling the candies rather than decorating going on!
Zach's cute teacher, Mrs. Cook. All the 2nd grade teachers, all 5 of them dressed up as the 5 little monkey's jumping on the bed, like the story.
My Zach, the lion for the 3rd year in a row with his yummy cookie.
This years costumes: Zach the lion, Ellie is Leah from star wars (Rachel made the yarn hat and outfit, so creative), Kirsten the witch and Caleb is "Bumblebee" from Transformers. Happy Halloween!
This year was great in that after the ward party,it started to rain. (not good). I told Nathan he got to take the kids around, but only if it stopped raining. An hour later it did. Nathan, the smart person that he is told me to turn off the lights and go read a book...and I did. This trick fooled most of the kids and I only had a few interruptions from reading. I like this kind of trick or treating...the stay warm and relax kind!

Bridal Veil Falls Sunday walk!

2010-10-05T13:16:00.001-07:00

It was so pretty up in the Provo canyon with the fall leaves changing a green world to one of color. We decided to take Allie along with us for a stroll on the bike path...she was content to come along. She loves riding in the van which still surprises me.
This picture just makes me laugh! Notice I'm the only one looking at the camera...even Allie is going along with picture protocol and not looking at the camera. This wasn't even a planned "don't look at the camera" picture.
Kirsten has really enjoyed having the responsibility of taking care of Allie this last couple of months. She loves to just go out in the backyard and play with Allie.
Zach loves to climb and he did just that with every tree he could.
Caleb...the go go go boy. He is always on the move exploring his surroundings and finding excitement out of every new experience.
I love this picture even if it is blurry. It really show them how they are...fun loving and happy!
Dad was trying to make the kids smile and was talking about "farting." I keep telling him talking about this body function openly is going to come back and haunt him someday. Why the kids think it is so funny every time, I'll never know.
We found a spot that wasn't too steep that led down to the water. We thought Allie would be more interested in the water...but she wasn't. She walked in the little streams leading up to the falls, but didn't venture in that far. We'll have to try it during the summer months and without the leash.
Of course, the kids had to go closer to see the river. Kirsten was a little more hesitant than the boys. We had to remind them to stay on the dirt shore and not venture out onto the rocks. Boys will be boys and I wouldn't want them any other way...most of the time.
Zach climbed up this tree and Caleb was right behind him. Kirsten didn't want to let go of the branch, but it was a good photo opportunity.

Uncle MJ in Utah!

2010-10-02T17:27:00.000-07:00

We always love it when MJ does recruiting for work because that means that we get to see him without driving to CA. This trip was really busy for him and the kids didn't get to see much of him even with him in Utah Thursday- Sunday. He was busy from till late when the kids were in bed. Sunday morning he did the traditional tickle torture though!
The "two for one special."
I had them pose on the porch before we left for Church and MJ left for his flight. I've got some good looking kids who love their uncle!
I love this picture!
Here is the "silly faces" picture that Kirsten requested.
Thanks for the visit MJ, your welcome anytime!

My birthday #33!

2010-10-02T17:01:00.000-07:00

My birthday fell on a saturday this year and even though I was looking forward to sleeping in, I had a pleasant surprise. A around 5:30am, Caleb woke up and needed to go potty. I took him and then on returning him to bed, Zach wanted a drink. I complied thinking that if I do it quickly, I'll get back to bed faster. I hurried back in the hall only to collide with Nathan coming to check what was going on. I go back to bed and Nathan says he'll be right there. I fell back to sleep for a little bit then realize Nathan is not back. I go check and see him on the front room couch, but before I say anything, he gets up to answer a quiet knock on the door. Two of my best friends, Becca and Lona Marie had come to take me to breakfast. They were worried I'd be mad because they know I love to sleep in on the weekends after getting up at 6am to run with them. It was a wonderful surprise despite the time to go to IHOP for breakfast with them. Amy later met us there and Emily missed out because she was sick. Thank you for the breakfast surprise gals. It was a great way to start the day!
Later in the day we went to the duck pond. After experiencing the feeding frenzy earlier in the month, we went a little crazy and got 4 loaves of bread and 4 pkgs. of hotdog buns for the occasion. We all enjoyed watching the ducks and fish devour the food.

We thought we missed the new ducklings this year, but spotted two new families on the water today.
Nathan got me a yummy ice cream cake this year! Notice the 6 candles. Nathan thought 33 candles was too many so he put 3 candles on each side for 33. Inventive!
When I tried to cut the cake the cutter got stuck and I could pick up the whole cake! Nathan then tried to cut into it with a butter knife and broke the knife. oops! Now we know to get the cake out before you plan on eating so it can thaw a little to preserve our knifes. It was a great cake with mint ice cream filler and oreo's dipped in chocolate on top. Sound good? It was heavenly!
After cake and ice cream, I went to the women's conference with Lona Marie. Which was really good, despite that it fell on my birthday!
When I got home, Nathan went and got me an order of fried zucchini from Red Robin. This is my favorite food of the moment! MJ had just got done with his recruiting and so nathan and him ordered pizza. I would say we all enjoyed our feast together, but I already had eaten and gone to bed when their food arrived. It was a great ending to a great day!

Corinne, Ethan and Sierra come for a visit!

2010-10-02T16:47:00.000-07:00

We benefited when Uncle Spencer went on his annual hunting trip by getting a visit from my littlest sister, Corinne. Corinne, Ethan, and even Sierra got to stay on Friday through Monday with us. We had a blast with the play dough! It's funny how sometimes you forget what fun something is until you get it out again to play with.
Kirsten's creation. It looks like those troll dolls I played with as a kid.
Caleb had fun using the cutters.
Zach liked the tool where you can make the spaghetti strands. Here is the "hairy snake, named hairy" that he made.
We had lots of fun playing in the sand box, going to the park, feeding ducks and fish, and just hanging out. All too soon monday was here and it was time to say goodbye. Ethan was patiently or not so much waiting for his movie to start. It was a pleasant surprise that Sierra and allie got along so well. All was well as long as Sierra didn't go after Allie's balls. We'll have to do this again real soon! Spencer even got a hit while hunting with his bow and arrow. Now that is impressive. Good luck with getting that into the freezer Corinne!

My baby is now 4 years old!

2010-10-02T16:13:00.001-07:00

Caleb chose to have doughnuts for his birthday breakfast! He likes the plan glazed doughnuts , but we compromised and got the variety pack. Look below at the happy doughnut eaters!
What do you get the kid who has everything he needs and wants...the same race trace that his cousin got last month for his birthday that you know Caleb already loves playing with. Thanks for the idea Lisa and MJ.

Caleb and I built the track after the kids left for school. Then he got to go through our cars and see which ones worked on his track. He had a fun time experimenting with that!
I'm not really a party planner so I called a few of Caleb's playmates and invited them to meet us for a play date at the park and brought cupcakes to share. Caleb thought this was great doing all the things he loves on his birthday. Sophie, Caleb favorite girlfriend and Taylor just hanging out.
Taylor and Colby, two peas in a pod.
Having fun on the slide.
"Look mom, I'm doing it (pumping back and forth!"
I'm glad kids aren't that picky about what something looks like, but rather the taste. These cupcakes looked good the night before when I frosted them in the pink Caleb chose, but in the morning the cones had softened and caved in. They didn't look good at all, but they tasted great if the kids eating them was any indication.
Cute little Matty came up to me and raised his frostingless cupcake as if to say, "I'm done with this one. Can I have another?"
I made a fruit pizza and we had it for dinner! I thought at least the fruit was good for them even if the crust is a cookie. It was YUMMY! I didn't have any complaints from the kids about not wanting to eat their dinner this night. Caleb, I hope you had a memorable, fun day! We love you and are glad that you are part of our family!

Provo's Latino Fair!

2010-10-02T16:07:00.001-07:00

Nathan and Zach went to the BYU/ WA football game which left Kirsten and Caleb feeling left out. Luckily there was the fair in Provo. I didn't know it was the "latino" fair till we got there and I felt like the minority for the first time in my life. I let the kids choose one right to go on. Caleb chose the planes and the attendant was really nice and let him ride for a long time. He would spray him with a water bottle as he went around, which Caleb thought was great because it was a really hot evening.
Kirsten chose the swings and was the only person on the ride! She felt pretty special. We then had to get the elephant ears as I call them. They were good, but I haven't found any yet that compare to the ones at the fairs in Washington.

September 2010: Feeding the ducks or fishing?

2010-10-02T15:55:00.001-07:00

We went to feed the ducks in early September and found tons of fish to feed instead! The carp were so big that one scared Kirsten to screaming when she saw it from the bank. It was amazing how the ducks had to literally fight for their chance at the feast. I don't know who had more fun, Nathan or the kids! Watch out they splash!

Allie love!

2010-10-02T15:49:00.000-07:00

Our 5 year old lab, Allie loves to play ball. After playing ball with her for awhile; she laid down for a rest. Caleb tried to ride her like a horse and we got it on camera. C is getting pretty heavy and after a few tries Allie didn't want to have anything to do with it. She was a good sport to let him even try. We all had a good laugh as we watched the Allie/Caleb rodeo!

2010 School year begins

2010-10-02T15:10:00.001-07:00

K and Z were excited for their first day of 4th and 2nd grade. This year K has straight teeth and Zach is missing just a few. The tooth fairy has been very busy keeping up with these two.
The final walk to the bus. My kids are getting bigger, but they look so small compared to the giants around them.
and the final wave goodbye!

August 2010: UVU Owls final game!

2010-10-02T15:00:00.000-07:00

Our good friends, the cooks invited us to the owls game. Our last "hurray" before the start of school. The kids had a blast. The scary girl mascot!
They had a balloon clown and we waited in line way too long for K's pink clown and Z and C's swords that didn't last till the end of the game because they hit the grass too many times. This was kinda funny because the different parts would pop and then all the adults would try to say, " you still have such and such many parts left" to try to keep them from being sad.
Their prizes from the long line.
We didn't really come to watch the game. We came to roll down the awesome hill with our neighborhood ! :) The douglas' were there too. Friends are so much fun! We later watched the fireworks before calling it a night. Which were pretty impressive!

$2 Tuesdays

2010-08-03T14:56:00.001-07:00

We went to the Dinosaur museum at thanksgiving point today with our good friends the cook's. We didn't know quite what to expect, but the line even before 10 am when it was to open was rather long. I was impressed with how quickly we got into the museum though.

Replicas of the sea creatures during dinosaur times.
Zach is really into these types of museums. He was on cloud nine.
Some of the creatures seemed to resemble now a day creature combos. One of these was the shell creature at the left. Zach said it was one of his favorites.
Then there were the actual fossil replicas...they really looked like sticks.
The caves that the kids crawled through...
More fossils
Bigger fossils
This is a miniature setting with dinosaurs in realistic scenes. Then you could try to find things that were shown on the bottom display. Zach was in heaven.
More of the display...
Meanwhile, Kirsten and Aspen were doing an art project. The idea was to copy a tile then put it up for display.
The finished copy. Great job Kirsten!
Make a dinosaur of your own with velcro parts.
Where did the dinosaur live?...
Push the button and find the light-up location.

Sitting on the big dinosaur feet.

Caleb was really getting tired of all the bones. He just wanted to go to the "stars." It is a dark room that had twinkley lights like the galaxy. Not dinosaur related at all.
The sand and water area where there where dinosaurs and trees to play with.
Dinosaur eggs...
Giant turtle fossil
taking a break on the rock sofa under the fish
Caleb in a real smile teasing me because he sat on the turtle shell enstead of beside it for the picture.
Just another cool fossil of a dino
HUGE shark...Caleb wasn't all that thrilled...
Just a reminder if you don't keep your kids off the exhibits the wandering employees will help you out...oops!
A real baby mammoth fossil... way cool!
The discovery area was one of the kids favorites...hands on always are.
The huge pterodactyl hanging from the ceiling.
We had a little picnic under a tree near the car. The day was getting hot and still it was comfortable in the shade.
A kid pile is always a good way to end a great adventure with friends.

Saturday bike ride

2010-08-03T14:38:00.000-07:00

Now that all of our family can ride bikes, we decided it was time to go for a extended ride beyond the neighborhood. We went our of the neighborhood, down the road going south, across the railroad tracks and down the path by the river. It was so much fun and so beautiful. It's like a whole different world that is secluded from the rush of life.
Caleb taking up the rear on the way home after being the leader to start. He was getting alittle tired, but was a great sport and kept up with everyone.

All good things come to an end!

2010-08-03T14:16:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed our adventure to California and seeing all our loved ones. We will miss our visits to the bank to see "Gaga." (notice hunter's plug and Caleb's)
Hunter's plug is gone. The kids got specially treats everytime they visited Gaga. Thanks you! We love you.
Chris and Melissa were great sports coming to see us at Lisa's house even though they worked all day in the sun before. We loved seeing you both.
Adam and Jessica came to hang out too. Jessica took the girls to the "spa" as Kirsten called it and got their nails done. She had a blast! Thanks Jessica for spoiling her in "girlie ways." She also gave us a much needed break by coming over and watching the kids while we went to soak in the hot tub at Chris and Melissa. It was nice to talk "adult" for awhile.
Hunter looking cool borrowing Adam's shades.
The last photo shoot before we take off for home. I love how Hunter is looking guilty notice the hand position to the left.
Now notice the smile on Hunter's face because he got Jessie's hair. Jessie's smile...not so much from enjoyment of the moment. Kirsten cheesarama. Zach and Caleb, " are we don't smiling yet." Tanner, "another one, really how many do you need aunt Kathryn?"
I love you Lisa! You're one of the my best friends and I'll miss being there with you doing the mothering together. Till next time...

Swimming at Uncle Chris and Melissa's

2010-08-03T14:01:00.001-07:00

We enjoyed the use of Chris' and Melissa's pool to cool off in the hot California sun. Kirsten's enjoying a free ride on dad.
Zach took some lessons from Uncle Chris on swimming and became more confident and fishlike in the water. He's practicing some more.
We got these cool squirt guns from the dollar store and took them to the pool. The littler boys had fun on the sidelines aiming at the sitting ducks in the pool. Watch out aunt melissa and Chris.
Time to refill.
Hunter can't wait to get into the pool too.
I love this picture! I just wish it wasn't blurry.
"Watch out Zach, we've both got you as our next target!" I love their expressions...priceless.

Beautiful Seacliff state park Beach, CA

2010-08-03T13:37:00.001-07:00

It was a beautiful friday afternoon, when we headed out to go to the beach. The water was a little chilly, but the kids didn't seem to mind as they made trips with full buckets of water back to our stake out place to make sand castles. Notice the boys head sticking out of the hole on the right of the screen. This was a huge pit that these kids made. We got to enjoy their labors later after they left. Watch the video at the end.
The boys were up closer to the water making their own hole to capture the waves as they left some water behind.
So far this is the depth of the water catching hole. We've got a long way to go boys...keep digging.
"okay"...
The chair sitters back in the shade of the umbrellas. Notice baby Hunter, 9months in heaven in the sand totally covered in clothes. He later had to return to the blanket when he nose dived into the sand. Poor little guy he just wanted to play in the sand like everyone else.

These two munchkins positioned themselves behind this log thinking that they would be safe from the water. Caleb had fallen into the swimming pool earlier in the week and was a little afraid of anything water. They were so funny coming up with their own sings and singing away together.
Caleb belting out his own lyrics.

Look what I found mom..a crab! He's so proud of himself, but really he didn't find it some older boys out in the water would bring him the ones that they would catch. He was delighted all the same.

After the real diggers left their pit we took ownership and took turns jumping in and over.

2010-08-03T13:29:00.000-07:00

Although this looks like something from a torture school in training, just remember that Zach wanted Hunter to play dentist and optometrist.
Hunter looks so bored and tired here. These two were in first in line for the bath line and played in on the floor while the adults worked on getting all the kids through the line and into pjs.
"Open up wide, I can almost see the problem tooth right back here."

My voice commentary is really annoying but just listen to Zach. He loved playing with the baby.

The fishless fishing trip!

2010-08-03T13:19:00.001-07:00

This is a great shot of the San Fransisco cable bridge. The guys, Chris, MJ, and Nathan left early Thursday morning (July 22), to go samon fishing in the ocean. I believe that they went sailed out for about an hour and then put their lines in. One guy on the boat caught 1 samon. The guys were a little disappointed, but I'm sure they had fun just hanging out and enjoying the scenery including the drinking passengers as the day went on. We're just glad they came back safe and sound. Where are your life jackets guys?
These are some of the guys in my life that fill my heart with love...my younger but bigger brothers (L) Chris and (R) MJ. Nathan is the photographer. Thanks for inviting nathan along for the ride!

2010-08-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

This was one of the first times that my sister ever remembered the jaguar even being awake. He was definitely active and lively enough to scare the kids with his attention.

Happy Hollow adventure!

2010-08-01T17:00:00.001-07:00

We took the kids to Happy Hollow! The last time we had been here we had 3 less kids. We were outnumbered by children and didn't even have enough hands to connect with all of them. The kids did well and stayed with us. We are blessed with great children.

We went to the hands on area and fed the goats and small horses.

Caleb even surprised me and participated by letting the animals eat out of his hand a couple of times. He is pretty tactile sensitive.
The long time favorite carousel, Caleb on the polar bear.
Zach's expression looks like he is either scared or in pain. I know it isn't either, I just snapped the picture at the wrong time or it was pretty painful for him to get his picture taken yet again.
Kirsten on her chosen seal.
Jessie on a very decorated unicorn!
The boys taking their turn on the circle swing. Hang on boys!
The four seater teter totter! Say that four times fast.
"Now lets make this more interesting!"
All of us decided to go on the roller coaster minus Lisa and baby Hunter. Tanner set with me and Caleb, my little brave man sat in the front with Zach. He screamed the whole time wanting to get off. I felt helpless from 2 rows back! But he did survive.
We took a little break so Hunter could eat and the kids played on the climbing nets and slides. I chased after them for awhile till I was sure that they could make it through all the obsticles then sat down below and just watched. Our kids are made like monkeys the way the scrambled up these nets.

Zach was a true big brother and watched out and waited for Tanner and Caleb to catch up to him. He helped and encouraged as they needed him too.
We didn't have to wait in line much, but when they did they waited patiently for the most part.
The boys were using the antenas from the bugs as guns. Tanner and his famous one eyed aim. I love it!
We waited in this line and were lucky to be at the front so all the kids could get a red car that had a bell that you could ring.
Zach has got the "cheese" going good.
Caleb was having fun even though this shot shows such a somber face.
At first when the ride started we thought Hunter was not going to like it, then he got used to it and started to smile again.
Jessie, my lovable neice.

The race is on.

We worried that the younger kids wouldn't be able to get the hang of it, but they amazed us once again with their abilities.
The dropping ride. I put my kids on it when they were younger and it was definately more torture than fun, but this time they loved it.
Lisa went on with the younger boys. Caleb wasn't a fan. Can you tell?

San Jose Trip

2010-08-01T16:49:00.001-07:00

We spent two wonderful weeks visiting my sister, brother, and their families in California. Thank you for the fabulous memories that we will never forget. The kids are still going through withdrawls for want of their cousins. We spent most of our nights at lisa and Mj's were the kids bunched out in cots, tents, and futon mattresses. They had a blast, but it was a little challenging to get 6 kids baithed and to bed...asleep without a little adversity.

Lisa already had her kids doing a library reading program and since we were going to be their for an extended stay we joined in. The kids read and/or listened to forty book. Then they got to pick out some fun prizes along with win a new book to keep. Cool program that gave us another activity to fill the time before the sunscreen free time came and we could send them outside.
These two yahoos on the end were forever playing and only had the occational scuffle. Mischief could always be found through one idea or another!

Do brother's goggles fit the littler one?

2010-08-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

The answer is yes! Isn't he a cutie pie! I miss you guys!

California trip: Tanner's 3rd Birthday!

2010-08-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

We went to the bank where Grandma Vickie works for lunch to celebrate Tanner's birthday! The traditional "dado" birthday card is what tanner was opening first.
"Gaga" was telling Tanner to just push the card right here and see what happens...

Then it was time for the presents...you can't go wrong with orange...crab mask....
Orange Diego helicopter with dudes and an octupus
orange swim goggles. I love his expression..."coool"
orange and purple dragon/lizard that would extend it's head out when you push it. Tanner was hilarious doing the same tongue extention himself while pushing the dragons.
I love this kids tongue. I don't think his mother appreciates the chapped sore that results after seeing this tongue action though. Sorry lisa.

Gaga seeing if they will fit the dude!

Random pics!

2010-07-10T09:35:00.000-07:00

I've been a mean mom and try to keep the kids inside between the hours of 10am-4pm because of the sun. Anyway Nathan downloaded a bunch of Avatar cartoons and star wars clone wars. The kids have been eating it up. Kirsten drew this picture on the whiteboard and then wanted nathan to take a picture of it. I love that they create carry over activities from a movie.
They also play in the playroom quite a bit, but when the space runs out for all the different things they are doing then they come out to expand. Notice the big box of legos. Grandma Gale donated them for Zach's enjoyment, but all the kids loved to build with more legos to choose from. The first night we stayed up till midnight exploring and building.
These are some of the things that they created. It was pretty intricite.

We try our best to put the kids to bed somewhat early...but they complain that it is still "light" outside and end up playing together upstairs. This is where they all ended up one night when we went to "put them away" as we call it or pt them in their right beds.
I love that Kirsten and Caleb are holding hands. I love you Monkeys!

Goodbyes!

2010-07-10T09:13:00.001-07:00

We love visiting with Great Grandpa and Grandma Wells. There is so much open space to run and explore! Attempt one at a picture wasn't bad...
Take 2 was a great picture!
When we were younger, the tradition was that Grandpa would "count our ribs" and see how far he could get before we laughed. Jessi tried it out. She gave grandpa a run for his money.
Great Grandma and Zach having a little chat. (Grandma got burned pretty bad yesterday at the reunion. OUCH!)
We were too big this time to sit on their laps! :) I love Grandpa's smile...that is so how I remember him...loving, accepting, and easy going.
The goodbyes continue with getting the kids packed in the car. Hunter had a different idea...that wouldn't be comfortable for the 14 hour trip home.
I love this little guy! He is so full of energy and fun! Caleb does too.
All ends well in a hug of promise....see you soon Tanner!

Monday winding down!

2010-07-10T08:56:00.001-07:00

Blast Off Fun Center was our destination for our monday! It is indoor, which was good because it was cooler again and it wasn't that crowded. The kids had a "blast."
The ball pits or "arm pits" as Caleb once called them were a hit. The kids loved getting buried.

These two yahoos together as always. They even tried to go off one their own to a different part of the fun center and we were worried when they couldn't be found in the tunnels. The zip line was fun to do with more than one going...Zach and Tanner hanging on for the ride!
Ethan can be a happy child, but his expressions make me laugh when the camera comes out.
Below is Caleb catching air into the balls. He isn't as reserved this time. Experience is a good thing.
The group of happy jumpers and their moms.
Back at Corinne's, fed with fun, food, and now a good nap. Notice Hunter' s hand just hanging out in his dad's pocket. So cute!
MJ needs then nap before he heads out for the long hall back to CA that night.

Fireworks part 2: Idaho Falls

2010-07-10T08:44:00.001-07:00

This time we went right to the chairs for the show. It was a more windy and cold at Corinne's so we wrapped the kids in blankets and provided the added bonus of popcorn.
Nathan brought over the hand poppers. The kids pulled a string and a popping sound resulted with some confetti. I love jessi's face in this one. She didn't know quite what to expect...she pulled the string anyway...NO FEAR generation.
I got one shot of the actual big fireworks! MJ, David, and Grandpa's stockpile provided a great show! Thanks guys!
We got a little smarter this time and spred the kids out to do the sparklers.
Then it was bathtime and ready for bed...but not without a little snuggle time!
Caleb didn't even make it to the snuggling. He was worn out from the GO GO GO of the weekend schedule. Fun in the sun and with your cousins can be exhausting.
We think that Zach was playing possum...but it was a cute moment anyway. We love our family!

Fireworks!

2010-07-10T08:23:00.000-07:00

After the reunion, we went back to the kids Great Grandparents farm and started the fireworks. The kids favorite was the sparklers. This is 2 year old Ethan's first experience with them. He was so thrilled. Such a big little boy!
Kirsten and her twin Jessi!
Caleb trying out his sparkler. Ethan looks like he is working at blowing out the fire...this is a little different than your birthday cake candle though!
Zach and uncle Joe! You can see Uncle MJ' s hand as he dishes out the newly lit sparklers.
Notice the bucket in the middle...we were trying to be safe. As safe as handing fire stick to kids within close proximity to each other and having them move them around can get. Ha Ha Ha!
Jessi's pose for the future cheerleading tryouts.
MJ lit up some worms and the kids watched for a it, but wern't as impressed as I remember being at that age.
The line up for the after dark show. A little fuzzy, but you get the idea. We didn't have chairs to begin with, but the kids were just too ansy to get close to the road and the firepower...so out came the chairs. Grandma brought the kids these glow stick for the special occasion.
I loved the beauty and the calmness whenever I visited my grandparents. It is still there even if we bring along our own living noise.

Reunion Time!

2010-07-10T08:11:00.001-07:00

We went to Idaho for my mom's family reunions over the 4th of July! Here's a little of what we did...Cousin Tanner and Caleb...best buddies...or worst enemies. All the kids made this bird nest and collected pine cones in the open field by the Church pavilion.
Aha! There you two are! Look for pairs if you look for these boys. Hiding out in their tree fort!
Zach learning the art of ax throwing with Uncle David! Grandma brought this activity all the way from Washington and Zach was thrilled!
I videoed him and didn't get a good shot of him hitting the target. He didn't stop practicing though and came over to me later to show me all the ones he did hit the mark with.
Kirsten got wet during a water fight and Grandpa took this as a good opportunity to snuggle!
I don't know what it is, but I kids jump at the chance to ride in another vehicle whenever possible. This time it was the blue whale of grandma and grandpa.

2010-06-25T13:13:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, while still in Washington, Mike and Dorothy got us in to the Court Club. We got to try out the rock wall since Mike was certified to be a balayer. While Mike reviewed the ropes, the kids got to practicing on the rocks. They are all little billy goats when it comes to climbing. Zach is the one that Nathan is trying to hang on to. However, when playing tennis was mentioned Zach opted to do that instead of climb.
Caleb and Tanner had their own idea of entertaining themselves.

Three of my goodlooking brothers!
Caleb getting strapped in for the climb. Jessi was rearing and ready to go to.
Grandpa is helping Caleb find the footholds on the rock. Watch the video. Caleb gets up aways and then decides it is a little scary. Listening to it, I'm convinced that my comentary is annoying, sorry. I was very proud of Caleb for being so brave! We all then went swimming and hot tubbing. We tended to gravitate to the hot tub. Thanks Mike and Dorothy for making it possible for us to come along.

Father's Day

2010-06-25T12:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day! Nathan woke up to a breakfast of apple and cherry turnovers! yum. Nathan was really spoiled this year. He got a blu-ray dvd player (our other one broke, what great timing.) He also got a case and screen protector for his Ipad. He is one lucky guy and won it at a graphic arts convention as a door prize. I figured that if you have something nice you need to keep it that way. His ducktaped envelop was a pretty creative, but lousy case.
Then we went to Church, but Nathan left early, he has been feeling under the weather lately and hasn't been able to sleep really well. It was nice that he could have a break from meetings and just rest.
For lunch we had nathan's favorite, chicken cordon bleu, mashed potatoes, fruit salad, dinner rolls, and sparkling cedar. This time I made fruit punch for the kids so we could actually have more drink, but mixing the two tasted pretty good.

Strawberry freezer jam!

2010-06-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

This last Wednesday night, my friend showed me how easy it is to make freezer jam. Strawberry is our favorite and were on sale so we tried it out. Kirsten was still up so we started washing bottles, washing berries and slicing them up. She was a big help. I learned that my friend made it look easy but when it's late at night and your tired everything seems harder. One lesson I learned was to make sure you mix in a bowl with a spout. Getting the jam in the jars was a messy job. Overall and enjoyable task with Kirsten. We'll see how it tastes!
Our bounty was 7 pint jars of yummy strawberry jam! Thanks for you teaching Lona Marie and your help Kirsten!

Shooting practice...which one next?

2010-06-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

One of the traditions and hobbies of the Gale men is shooting. I was thinking about borrowing one of David's guns while he is one his mission, although even after learning how to shoot many and clean them, I still want more knowledge before I'll feel comfortable having it in my home. We took Zach to the shooting range this time. While we were setting up, Zach was busy catching butterflies. He wants to be like the big boys, but I like his innocent interests.
"Look mom, I caught one."
Uncle Mike took Zach under his wing and showed him how to aim, hold and fire.
One of the tables with the variety of guns and ammo. Dad, Mike, Spencer, Chris, Melissa, David, Joe, Nathan, Me, and Joe all came for the affair.
Zach shooting another gun with uncle Chris. "Look at me mom, I'm a big kid now." He was so excited to be included.
Chris is reminding him to line the target up...
Trying yet another gun...he is getting good at aiming now. This gun has less of a backfire.
Not the ordinary mom and son activity, but we had a BLAST!
This gun had huge bullets and packed a punch. Zach got mad because I shot up all his milk carton targets. It was so much fun!
I was pretty pleased that I actually could hit the target I was aiming for. Usually I shot just below the target. Spencer,(he is a security guard and packs regularly) said that was pretty normal because I was bracing myself for the backfire. Practice definatly helped.
Another gun for trying out with the help of uncle Chris. Notice how he is bracing Zach's back for the backfire so he doesn't get knocked down...I'm not jocking. Some of these guns are really powerful.
Does he look like he is having fun yet?
This was nathan's favorite gun. I liked the black 9mm glock best...I think anyway. I had a hard time keeping all the guns and names straight! Thanks boys for the gun fun!

Pictures while taking pictures

2010-06-25T12:03:00.001-07:00

This is 7month old Hunter. My sister, Lisa's last and youngest son. Don't you just want to kiss those cheeks? They are even more unresistable in person. To follow are more of his expressions. He is such a little thinker and so mild mannered.
Doesn't he just look like he is saying, "You're going to kiss me again aren't you?"
"Eww, let me see that a little closer." Kinda cool with dad MJ looking on in the background.
Now here is my last and youngest. He is getting so big and is always running to do everything the big kids do. We were waiting while every family did their individual shots. Caleb can't sit still and started climbing on the rocks.
Say "cheese." My little boy is growing up too fast!

Visiting with an good friend!

2010-06-25T11:54:00.000-07:00

Megan is a friend from back in highschool...then to college...then to maid of honor...then on into married life and motherhood. She lived in Washington now and even when I visit, it is hard to get our schedules to aline. We made it happen this time. This is her 4th child, Eliza! Isn't she darling!
On the Monday after graduations we were able to go see her new house that they have been remodeling and then play at the park. I took Caleb and Tanner, (my nephew) along. All the kids had a great time and best of all they extinguished some of their endless energy.
Caleb and Tanner are the best and worst of friends when we get together. It is so fun to be with cousins, no matter if they act more like siblings than cousins. We love it all.

Making stepping stones

2010-06-25T11:31:00.001-07:00

Aunt Corinne came up with this cool idea to do stepping stones that all the grandkids got to put their handprint in and then decorate with letters for their names and other objects. It was a production, but we Gale's just get in there and get it done...the kids had a blast. Although some didn't want to put their hands in the cement mud...
Notice "dad" "grandpa" at the end with the shovel..."anyone need anymore?"
Uncle Chris is helping get the right amount and consistancy of the cement.
Caleb's handprint in done...he looks a little worried about being "dirty." Jessi at the end is looking a little apprehensive as well.
All the girls are getting into it now. Grandma brought out some colored beads. Let the bedaveling begin!
Everyone "smile."
Now we are done...What's next?

JUNE Uncle David's Highschool Graduation!

2010-06-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

Since the actual graduation ceremony wasn't till 5pm, my parents hosted a BBQ in their backyard. All the relatives in town came along with all my siblings and their families. My great grandparents took the opportunity to get a great grandkids picture. This is really lucky since we are only missing Corinne's Ethan and adding Shyla in grandma's arms. My parents are up to 11 grandkids and counting...whose next?
My fam, grandparents, and great grandparents. We are really lucky to have so many grandparents to love and be loved by.
My cousin, Jeni and her little girl Shyla. She was adorable!
By the time graduation time came and we got the troops ready and there...we got bored easily. The uncles entertained with their hair...uncle mike's head hair and
... I love this picture of Caleb seeing if he is getting Mike's attention.
Now both Ethan and Caleb have Uncle Mike's attention...tickle time!
Uncle Chris' arm hair...He isn't all that thrilled to be the focus of Zach's little pranks.
This is one of my favorites by far. Uncle mike has been blessed with 4 beautiful girls...when his sister come to visit he can always be seen playing with the kids especially the boys. This is a cute one of him cuddling Tanner. Tanner isn't one to sit still so this is an amazing occurrence.
Finally after 2.5 hours of talking the deed is done...he has graduated. My kids look thrilled don't they?
Me and my little...BIG brother, David! What a handsome young man!
All of my siblings: (L)me #2, Corinne #5, David #6, Chris #4, Mike #1 (bottom), Joseph #7, Lisa #3. We don't look like that many...maybe because we aren't moving everywhere, we actually can all hold still for a picture now!

Caleb's new ABC game!

2010-06-24T17:18:00.001-07:00

Caleb and I have lots of time at home while the kids are at school. Sometimes I get creative in using our time together. We did the ABC giant train puzzle and then got the magnet abc's from the fridge and Caleb matched the letters to the puzzle. Sometimes I would give him hints using colors of the train or the animals, but most the time he would just go down the train till he found the match.
Matching the S with the snake on it...
Looking closely at the Q to see if it matches. I tried to get him to look at it from the other side so it wouldn't be upsidedown, but he didn't want to. He always did have his own way of doing things...himself.

May 2010 NICU reunion!

2010-06-24T17:07:00.001-07:00

Every year since the birth of Caleb at 29 weeks, the NICU from Utah Valley has a reunion to celebrate the lives of the graduates. After 6 weeks you form some pretty close bonds with the nurses and it is always nice to celebrate Caleb's life and health.
The 2nd time I saw Caleb, I was more aware this time. The first time was right after surgery as they wheeled in my bed to see him. Wheel chairs are so much more convenient in the NICU units.
The day of the carnival promised rain and we were not surprised when the sprinkles started. We got to see a life flight helicopter up close. Luckily we haven't had to ride in one. We like the tours so much better.
We had a light dinner and the usual cotton candy, snow cone, fishing, face painting, and duck pond activities. The kids always look forward to the bounce houses and slides, but this year they opted out because it was freezing already.

Z 1st grade author's night!

2010-06-24T17:02:00.000-07:00

After the singing performance, Zach took us back to his class and showed us all the progress he has made in his writing this year. He had a whole notebook full of his stories. What an amazing job he has done.
He got to read us some of his stories!

Z 1st grade performance!

2010-06-24T16:44:00.000-07:00

Zach and Addie look so excited while they wait for the first song to start.
Once the songs start, Zach has a little more enthusiasm for the performance, but not much. He loved the songs though and practiced them a lot at home.

May 2010 Daughter/ mom date

2010-06-24T16:30:00.000-07:00

Kirsten and I took a saturday and went to the mall for a special treat and a little shopping we came back with matching earings. We are each wearing one of them. She looks so grown up.
Caleb didn't want to miss out on this photo shoot and went and got some of Kirsten's dress-up earings. We just had to laugh!
We also came home with fish...3 pet fish to be specific. Kirsten bought them from walmart. When all was said and done: bowl+ food+ 3 fish= $20 and all her saved up money.
She was hard at work getting everything ready as soon as we got home.
The 3 amigo fish and their new home. I don't remember our goldfish smelling this fishy gross. What we do for our children.
p.s. These fish lasted 2 day. We brought them home saturday night, by sunday one was dead. We had to bury it before our 11 am church. Then we came home to have another one bite the dust. (I flushed this one.) Kirsten was devistated. When Monday morning before Kirsten woke, I found another one floating. Lesson learned: 3 strikes your out or don't buy fish at walmart? stay tuned...

BYU Women's Conference finale!

2010-06-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

Through Bishop's connections at the seminary, Becca was able to take Emily and I to this awesome concert. Hilary Weeks, Michael McLean, Alex Boye (singer, missed 4th child's birth),Dallyn Vail Bayles (singer entertainer), Fab 5, and mercy river.
Hilary Weeks, one of my favorite LDS musicians was the announcer. She came out with tp attached to her shoe...she is such a hoot!
Fab 5 tap dancers. 5 sisters were a crowd pleaser and simply impressive.
The crowd used their cells as flashlights. The picture doesn't do it justice it was cool. Michael McLean performed.
Mercy River performed! The one in the left with the white skirt, her husband was Bishop's coworker. What talent!
More fab 5. They had some interesting costumes!
Then Dallyn performed...he had so much energy and a towel handy to wipe of his sweat. Fun!
Fab 5 finale!

Football party!

2010-06-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

Nathan had a boy party with some guys friends from our ward. They watched the football game and he set up the basement and even went as far as putting on a tablecloth. I had to just smile at all his effort.

3rd Grade Track and Field day!

2010-06-24T15:32:00.000-07:00

Kirsten got to do the 3rd grade track and field over at the highschool this year. She signed up for the softball throw, the 10 meter and 20 meter dash. She did great, but best of all she had fun! Caleb and I went over and cheered her on.
Kirsten and Devani getting ready for the first run...
Waiting, ever waiting for her turn. All the schools in Nebo district were present.

Kirsten's race to the finish.

Zach's Grandparent's Day!

2010-06-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

Zach's 1st grade grandparent's day was right after spring break. It turned out that not one of his grandparents could make it to the actual event. However, all of them wrote him and email or letter about their 1st grade memories...he was thrilled. Thanks to all of you for making this special for him.
Letter from Grandma Gale from Kennewick, Washington.
Letter from Grandma Stitt in Paris, France. (Grandpa is there working for a year.)
Great Grandma Stevenson from St. George, UT.
Great Grandpa Wells from Blackfoot, ID.
Great Grandpa Gale from Kennewick, WA. He wrote his own letter...what a treasure!
And last but not least...Grandma Cindy who stepped in to be our grandma. She is a good friend and member of our ward family. I worked with her for 2years in the nursery and she loves our kids like her own. Thanks for helping us.

Day 4- Play date at the park

2010-04-12T17:28:00.000-07:00

When Aunt Nancy called to see if we could do a play date again on Saturday afternoon, we were excited we could see them again before heading home. We went to another park and the boys decided to be boys and cover the slide with woodchips and then slide down it. All the boys got involved with the process and had a good time. See below for the video of the woodchip slide.
Meanwhile the girls wanted to be off on their own and just chat. I found them on the bleachers just munching on their trail mix and enjoying being alone. Spencer took Ethan down the tube slide. It was a tight fit. Corinne and I were at the bottom to catch it on film. Sorry spencer...I couldn't resist, what a good dad you are!

Day 3- Visiting Wells Grandparents and Idaho Family

2010-04-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

The kids love playing with great grandpa wells! They would take turns holding a marble in their hands and then having grandpa try and guess which hand. We loved visiting with you grandpa and grandma. Grandma was even able to go outside and watch the kids swing with the help of her rascal.
The kids were eager to go and see all the farm animal...cows and chickens. I was a little leary of going any closer to the cows not saying anything about the obstacle course with avoiding the cow pies!
Grandpa had made a cool tramp for the cars to race down along with a metal marble track (black one) that the kids enjoyed playing on. The marbles would shoot out the end and we used the wooden blocks and the farm fence to block them from going everywhere. The kids loved every minute even though it got pretty loud with the marbles rolling down the metal ramps.
Aunt Nancy, Luke and Alena came out to celebrate a late birthday for Grandma. Aunt Nancy did the cake with M&Ms. It turned out really nice and tasted even better. Corinne brought the makings for a spaghetti dinner and we all enjoyed it together.
Kirsten loved having Alena to play with after spending so much time doing boy things with the little boys. They even played on the piano together.
Luke was a great pianist even if he wouldn't let me take a picture of him. What a stinker!

Idaho Falls- Day 2 Tautphaus Park

2010-04-12T16:44:00.000-07:00

Although it was still a little big cold outside, we went to Tautphaus Park. This park is really kid friendly with rubber padded ground covering and lots of cool big swings, slides, drums, and spinning tulip chairs. The kids had a blast and it was relatively ours for enjoying.
The wind picked up while we were there, but we all enjoyed the fresh air.
Ethan's form of swinging or hanging which ever you deem describes what he is doing.
He's decided he is done and is trying to remain balanced before he topples over head first.
He's righted himself, but is not sure he was done "swinging."
These are the cool swings I was talking about. They can fit an adult or two kids if you straddle the safety harness.
Zach's having a turn being Ethan's swinging partner in this one while having a little snack while he isn't on the move.
Caleb even enjoyed the big swing, although he looks really small in them.
There were different posts to the side of the toys, but we used little sticks to make noise. The gongs sticks were missing.
These were the kids other favorite item to play on. These cup like chairs were tipped alittle off balance and then would spin around with the child's weight.
Caleb taking his turn in the spinning tulip chair.
Zach kept wanting us to spin him faster and faster. He was mighty dizzy when he emerged.
Everyone at the top together before we called it quits.

Idaho Falls visit- Day 1 Blast Off center

2010-04-12T16:39:00.001-07:00

That first night, we went to a cool activity place called "Blast off!" It had mazes with ball pits or "arm pits" as Caleb called them at the ends. Spencer was even able to come with us before he went on his shift again.
The boys playing in the "arm pits" and then slid down the padded slide. They had a "Ball."
The tunnels only had opening in certain areas otherwise you were especially a caged animal or Caleb.
They had a zip line that Zach really liked. We did a video below.

Visiting the Cook's in Idaho Falls for spring break!

2010-04-12T16:23:00.001-07:00

We had a great time visiting Corinne, Spencer and Ethan. The boys played with trains, cars, guns, and of course legos. It was fun seeing Ethan walking and talking more since it had been almost 8 months since we saw him last.
We learned Ethan's favorite shows are "pat pat" or Little Einsteins and "choo choo" or Chugginton the train show. These became the main entertainment as he only eats with the tv going.
When all the kids wanted to sit by Ethan, Ethan decided he didn't want to sit with any of them.
This is the cutest picture of Ethan. He is taking a ride on his spiderman 4 wheeler and giving the best "cheese" ever.
I tried to get all the kids in one shot, but with four kids someone is always moving. This time Caleb moved too much to the side.
The second shot got all of them in the picture and captured some personality as well. Can't you just see Ethan telling Kirsten to let go so he can be on his way and Kirsten doing her silly face and the other boys acting innocent when their minds are thinking of their next move to get on that bike.
Zach finally getting his one and only turn and then when the battery was dieing we couldn't figure out if it was going slow because of the weight it was carrying or the extra friction of the rug. Zach didn't get another chance to find out.
Caleb gets a turn, but not because Ethan willingly gave up his spot. He was chasing after Caleb like alot of the time when he wanted all of his toys, especially the ones that Caleb had, even if there were others to be had.
Caleb made his getaway and boy was he happy!

Bean Museum visit with dad

2010-04-12T16:11:00.001-07:00

Nathan took the kids to the bean museum on tuesday night so I could finish packing for our trip to see Aunt Corinne in Idaho Falls the next morning.Nathan was going to join us in Idaho on Friday using the shuttle, but some freelance jobs came up and we couldn't pass up the double pay for the inconvience of ruining our plans. They had a great time doing the hands on textures of the animals skins.
They liked the BIG lifesize animals too.
Somehow, Caleb doesn't seem as big or foreboding as the bear behind him.
Nathan wouldn't be Nathan if he didn't see the fish exhibit.
This must have been their favorite animal because all of them posed beside it.

Easter 2010

2010-04-12T15:58:00.001-07:00

It is supposed to be spring when Easter comes around...not so this Easter. Instead we had snow covering the ground with more storms on the way. Caleb woke up, this morning and raced downstairs, jumped on the couch and pulled back the blinds, "Where's Easter?" We tried to explain that Easter wasn't a person, but a day and when Christ was resurrected, but I think it will take more telling him this for him to understand. We did a little egg hunt inside for the kids. Caleb is finding the egg Nathan stashed behind his elliptical.
Kirsten "cheesing" it for the camera. Notice no more braces?
Zach and Caleb searching behind the couch. Zach is still in his pj's after being sick all weekend long. The deal was he laid down all morning and could do the easter egg hunt if he didn't get sick by the afternoon.
We went to my sister, Corinne's house in Idaho Falls and her neighborhood had a egg hunt. The kids got an outside hunt after all, just 2 weeks later.

The older kids were searching for the eggs farther down the grassed area.
The hunt is over, now "what did we find?"
Consuming the candy on Corinne's lawn. I love the tradition of using the baskets that our great Gale grandparents made for the kids. They are really a cute idea.

Playroom makeover at last!

2010-04-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

It has been over a year since our crawlspace/playroom flooded with 8 to 10 inches of ground water causing us to cut out the bottom of the existing sheetrock. Now is it March of the following year and we have finally replaced the sheet rock. Nathan helped to sheetrock and mud and tape the walls.
Then I sanded down and painted the walls, then put the old carpet and toys back in the space. We still had to get replacement carpet for the cement step.
Caleb and I headed to home depot to get some carpet and padding. We also decided to pick up a little padding and cement glue to put the padding onto the cement with.
Caleb witnessing the monumental cut.
The finished product...with the new, bigger light too. What a difference it all made.
Caleb wanted to take picture of me too. Not too bad for a 3 year old photographer.
Caleb posing for the remodel shot, but wanting to be the one taking the picture.

Zachary's Field trip to Cook's greenhouse in Orem

2010-04-12T14:43:00.000-07:00

I got to go on the bus with Zach and his class to the nursery!
First, all the classes got to create their own greenhouse (cut in half juice bottle or pop bottle) with their plants they picked out.
Zach was one of the ones chosen for his class along with Averi, Sadie, and Cam.
Then we went on a tour of the greenhouses; they had rolling rows of starts which were so cool. Then we came back and talked about seeds and when to plant certain things.
At the end the kids all got a bulb to take home. After a week in the windowsill, Zach's blossomed and he planted it out front with nathan.
Here are a couple of plants that Zach wanted to take a picture of on our tour.
I loved this bright pink one because winter was still hanging on outside and the color was a welcomed sight.
The kids had a competition, boys against girls to see who could put the most seeds in the tray...one per each hole. ( when the kids moved the trays the seeds would fall through and then have to start over. We needed to start over alot.)
The kids busy at work seeding planting.
Then they watched the machine plant the seeds in the trays. Way more effective and time efficient.Very cool field trip and informative, but fun for the kids.

Nathan's 33rd birthday!

2010-04-12T14:31:00.001-07:00

Nathan wanted a quiet, low key affair for his birthday. We enjoyed his favorite yellow cake with chocolate frosting.
Notice the fire power on that cake. He blew them out, but next time we might need a fire extinguisher!
I love this picture. The guys look like they got caught getting in the cookie jar when really they were just licking off the candles.
Nathan has been hinting at getting an elliptical machine awhile and when I was at costco 2 weeks before his birthday, I saw that they sold them. I called his sister, Camille who had purchased one recently and this one was $200 cheaper. I didn't get it at first because the price still seemed big. After paying for my purchases and leaving the parking lot I reconsidered thinking that if I didn't get it then they would all be gone and if I wanted to return it I always could. I went back in and made the purchase...it just barely fit in the van with all but Caleb's seat folded down and two costco guys helping it into the space. I hid it in the garage covering it with objects that used to be in the shed. Nathan didn't notice it for a week. Then I couldn't stand to hold onto the surprise any longer and told him about it. He was estatic and we even put it together in companionable harmony! Happy Birthday Nathan! Thanks for all the birthday money moms and dads. We went out to eat at the end of the month to Tucanos! It was yummy!

Dan and Becca's 30th Birthday party!

2010-04-12T14:16:00.001-07:00

Some good friends and neighbors of our were turning 30 and so we combined a surprise party and BBQ to celebrate. Becca is the birthday girl being held by us all (L) Tara, me, Athena, emily, Candace, and Amy!
We then played a game boys against girls regarding prices of things back in the 1980's. The lossing answer caused one of the birthday people to put on a article of clothing from the 80's. The end result was a Becca/ punkie bruster and Dan the "too cool" man.
Here is the brithday boy with his wife, Emily. She planned the whole thing and did a great job!
Bishop Laing and his wife, the birthday girl. I love his expression. (Bishop was just coming back from helping sheetrock dan and emily's crawl space. Hence the apparel)
The fabulous cake that Allie made. She wasn't able to come. It has the 80's mark: bottom; pack man, middle: rubic cube, and top: a radio.

Ward Adult Game night!

2010-04-12T14:07:00.001-07:00

This activity was a blast! First of all there were no kids. Second of all we played my favorite tv show games: "The Price is Right" "Family Fued" and Take a candy bar or trade for a mystery box prize. We also had the newly wed game with all the bishopric and their wives and the clerk, his wife and the elders quorum president and his wife which was me and nathan. We both got to play the price is right and I even won a new dinning room table (or the placemats to go on them) and I played the right the check for the price of a world series baseball game tickets, and lost, but received the cosolation prize of a plastic bat and ball. What fun!
Dan was the showhost for family fued. His attire was from the DI and boy was it good, even the pastel pink dress shoes...that I didn't get in the picture. What a great sport!

March: Kirsten 3rd grade "World" program!

2010-04-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

Kirsten had her 3rd grade performance in march on the world. Here are some snippets of her songs. Top Left is " ...Lean on me." Top Right: "Bright sunshiny day!" Bottom Left: Kirsten's part about Asia. Then Bottom Right is the slap song: kirsten's favorite. Enjoy!

SpringCreek 14th ward women's basketball!

2010-04-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

We practiced every friday afternoon while our kids ran in the church to prepare for our games. We made it to the championship and missed it by 3 teams. We played hard and had a great time until the end when it got a little too competitive for my liking, but it was a competition so what was I thinking! My teammates: (Top Left) Janita, Amy, Me, Emily, Carrie, Becca. (Bottom) Lona Marie, Lanu, not shown: angie, lisa.
This is all of us again with our Relief Society president and # 1 cheerleader: Sis. Jenson.

Kirsten's 9th Birthday!

2010-02-22T11:43:00.000-08:00

A big birthday breakfast is a tradition that we do. Nathan cooked up scrambled eggs w/ cheese, bacon, orange rolls, and hashbrowns for the morning feast! Kirsten was a little estatic about not having to have cereal for our customary breakfast.
After school Kirsten went to Tara's, a friend and member of our ward who does hair and go her haircut...5 inches. Now she has long hair...
Now she doesn't. She liked having a change and she looks so cute with short hair. Now that Kirsten has started taking showers it is easier to get all the soap out too.
When dad got home from work we opened presents. Aunt Aubrey had dropped off balloons and skittles for Kirsten at school and she came home full of smiles and stories to tell. Dad brought her home flowers and Caleb and Zach picked out some whoppers and sixlets to add to the pile of loot. Mom threw in the gerbil pet shop gift and overall kirsten came out happy. Thank you to the cards from grandparents and aunts and uncles and phone calls. You all helped to make Kirsten's day more memorable and enjoyable! We went to the mall to eat and then played on the toys to get out all the remaining energy from the day.
On Sunday night, we surprised Kirsten with all her Aunts and Uncles who were in town for a pie party. I took Kirsten with me to drop off pack meeting reminders and drop off a lesson book to a newly called teacher as we tried to be sneaky in letting everyone make it to the house undetected. Camille and Andrew almost got discovered as we were making our way around the neighborhood and they drove by right in front of us. But Kirsten was very unaware of what we were up to and was blistfully surprised. Thanks to all of you who helped to celebrate with us. Kirsten got a surprise from aunt Rachel in the form of nail polish and lip gloss. She ate it up and we had to test out the new polish on Caleb and herself before going to bed.
I knew I'd forgot something when I discovered only two candles in the cupboard. We improvised and created a math pie...5+3+1= 9. Kirsten insisted that she wanted Lemon Merangue pie and I was hesitant, but she ate a big piece and seemed to enjoy it. We also had a chocolate pie that was ohhhhh so good. We had a great time visiting and enjoying seeing all the new tricks that Ellie had perfected. We got out all the old baby toys and watched her discover each new one with renewed excitement and curiosity. The musical duck puppet and the light up ball toys were the hit of the party.

First go at rolling skating

2010-02-22T11:11:00.000-08:00

The kids had their first experience with wheels on their feet the day before Kirsten's 9th b-day and they were troopers! Classic skating also lets you bring scooters to ride as well, but Kirsten, Zach, Nathan and I rented skates and took to the crowds of people most of which were from our elementary school. We brought the scroller for Caleb so we could keep him contained but still be out with everyone. That didn't last long as he wanted to do something himself.
Caleb had no fear and no concept of other people either as he got on his scooter and set out in the arena with nathan trying to keep up as Caleb darted out and often times trying to go against the flow of traffic. Thank goodness he didn't get hurt in any of his collisions.
I remember relying on the wall alot when I first started skating. Kirsten got more confidence as the night went on, but wanted to return to using the scooter because it was faster and she could then go hang out with her friends.
Zach found out that by using the stroller he didn't fall as much and the stroller was like training wheels in aiding him to steady himself on the skates. Colby had a turn in the stroller while Zach pushed him around. Zach had a blast , but poor Colby had had enough.
Kirsten back on her scooter rolling along with David a boy from her class.
All 5 of us on this eventful night! Although we were all sore from using new muscle we had a great time! Nathan is still nursing a bruised tail bone from the game of wipe out! The game entailed getting down on the floor or falling to the floor as fast as you can in a gender war when the announcer cut the music. I don' think the creater of this game intended the participants to be 33 year olds.

January going out with a whoosh!

2010-02-22T10:40:00.000-08:00

The end of January brought with it a great wind storm with winds at 72miles per hour. I had just put the kids to bed when I heard things start to bang around outside. My first thought was "Allie, our dog is outside." I decided to go out and bring her in. She was running around and was more than happy to come in the garage. When I got her in, I foolishly went out again to grab the sandbox lids to put them under the playhouse, but while going to get one the other flew up and hit the back of my leg...it hurt like the dickens, but didn't look that bad that night...the next morning though it looked pretty scary. (the photos below.) I stopped trying to gather the odds and end then around the yard and went to the shed to get allie's kennel. The door was caving in because of the wind pressure and I had to pull really hard outward to get it open. It was like a live nightmare when I got the one door open the whole roof of the shed lifted up and was propelled backwards, up and over the fence and into the neighbors house...cracking their siding. I was a little shaken up and then decided to just get to work and started making my way against the wind to bring some pieces into the garage. The pieces were like big sails that just pushed me back the little I'd come. After getting one piece in the garage, I realized that his was a futile attempt and grabbed the kennel next (I wouldn't have even got the kennel, but to leave allie in the garage with free rein wouldn' t be adviced. She doesn't chew on as many things, but she does get creative in her exploration.) Just my luck the kennel that was so convient for storing because it could collapse, now wouldn't open. I gave up and called my ever helpful neighbor, Cody. He came over and helped me secure the fence with twine since the fence latch broke off when the find caught it, helped me dimantle the remaining pieces of the tramp that were swinging toward the house and windows, and successfully set up allie's kennel so I could go in the house with the first reason I went out in the first place accomplished. I felt sick as I listened to the wind wrip away our shingles on the roof, but there was nothing I could do. When Nathan got home, he wanted to go out and see the damage, but again there was nothing that he could do either which mad it all the more frustrating. The wind stayed strong until about 1am, and we finally were able to try to sleep. We took pics the next morning.
The wind storm blew off alot more shingles than we originally thought. Nathan came home earlier from work on Friday to try and replace the missing pieces, but the next snow storm and night came upon us unprepared. We figured the exposed paper would last for a little bit. When the next day saturday found snow on the roof, Nathan brushed off the snow with a broom and we went up to start the process of repairing. Our neighbors helped watch the kids so we could both work and even our Bishop came over to help. I felt awful for taking the Bishop away from his family, but really appreciated what he accomplish on the repair allowing us to at least cover bare spot with the shingles and nails and then later to glue them all down. Another lesson I learned: I'm not cut out to be a roofer and I'm really out of shape when using a hammor for about 4.5 hours makes me sore.
The shed roof went over our fence and into the house on the left.
Two holes were created as the roof and the metal support beam went slamming into the siding.
The bruise that I deserved for being stupid enough to go out into a wind storm. The night of the storm only the pink dot was there...the next morning I felt a little more justified that it hurt so much when the color started forming the bruise. Lesson Learned: stay out of wind storms...the dog is find in her dog house. The tramp was a complete loss as the frame was bend beyong what we could try to jimmy and the shed...we'll try to reassemble after the weather gets warmer and we can find longer screws that can reattatch where the existing ones were wripped out. With a little luck we could hammer out the bend in the support frame! Wish us luck with that fun project.

January...Being Creative!

2010-02-22T10:24:00.000-08:00

My cute kids just hanging out together on the window ledge in the spare room!

In the middle of January the snow was abating, but the kids got creative with the little pile left from shoveling the driveway. The neighbor kids joined in and all were having a blast! Linnie...
Little Zach's turn...or those of you who don't know our next door neighbor and friend is also named Zach, but to distinguish between the two we call them "little and big."
Big Zach's turn...

Kirsten was trying to help Caleb get a turn, but the little bump they created for a slide was of balance by the weight of Caleb joining Kirsten on the sled. They had fun nevertheless and that's what counts.

A visit to the dentist!

2010-01-11T11:07:00.001-08:00

Caleb's attempted his first teeth cleaning last wednesday. He did great to let the dentist look in his mouth and count his teeth, but drew the line when we started polishing his teeth. He would sit up and start to gag. He got 5 teeth out of 20, not too bad for a start. He loved wearing the classes and looking in his hand mirror.
The only way we got the 5 teeth polished was if he got to push the button to get himself a drink from the little sprayer. It was so funny! The staff really was great about just letting him do what he was comfortable with and not forcing anything. We'll try it again in 6 months.
Zach is just chillin out in this chair taking it all in strides.
He is smiling...although with the spot light it's hard to see. While all the kids were in 3 different rooms, I tried to get them on a picture, but I didn't get Kirsten...she'll probably thank me later for not getting that moment on film.

Sledding over the break!

2010-01-11T10:22:00.001-08:00

On the saturday after Christmas, we decided it was about time we took the kids sledding. It was one of the warmer days so we didn't have any excuses left. We found the perfect place at one of the elementary schools, (Cherry Creek, I think) We had seen the hill when Zach was playing soccer this year and thought it was steep enough, but not too steep and maybe not as discovered as the Rock Canyon Park is in Provo, where it is too populated and down right scarry for being too icey and steep and watch out for your life dodging people.
After being there awhile, I left to go get Allie, our lab and more sleds. The kids and Nathan had made a jump at the bottom of the slope. We were trying it out. Check out the movie at the bottom. I only seemed to video when there were wipeouts, but they really did have fun.
After the jump was made, Kirsten decided to make her own flat path.
The kids going down the slope on the tube. Yes, Gale's these are some of the same ones we used when we were growing up. I inherited them when Lisa moved to the snowless California State. Sadly, only one is still functional.
Kirsten getting a helpful push down the slope. We found the little plastic disks from walmart works great.
Zach heading back up for more. He is getting so big, last year he couldn't even carry this tube. Notice the bend in the tube...we love our handy dandy duck tape. It was the last straw for this tube.
I tried a number of times to get Allie to go down with me on the disk, but she didn't want to sit still long enough. After that she would attack us with slobber when we were trying to get positioned before take off. She had a blast.
Zach and I speeding down the hill after a run and jump style mounting.
Kirsten and me with the same technique, but with allie attempting to catch up with us on the way down.
Calbe and I taking it head first...watch out here comes the jump! Granted it doesn't look like much of a jump...but it could give you some air action!
Caleb and I taking a different mode of transport down the slope. Those disks go fast, but oh they are getting tinnier every year.
Here I'm trying to get allie to go on the disk with me. She sat for a minute, but jumped off on the way down giving me much love for my attempt. I hate slobbery kisses.
Here allie is beating me to the bottom on our attempted dog and woman ride together.
At the beginging,Caleb would ride to the bottom and then fall off and dust off his boots of snow...he tried in a failed attempt to keep his boots clean.
I just loved these pictures of him. He is getting so big and trying to fit in with the bigger kids. He was a trooper after all of his spills, he didn't even complain that he was soaking wet only when he face planted and his sister and brother landed on top of him. What a tough guy!
We made more tracks and then had a race to the bottom.
More races...
Look at Caleb, he is riding with me and trying to fend off allie from her kissing advances.
The wipe out, I was talking about earlier. Poor little guy!
It took alot of convincing to get him to go down the slope again by himself. When he started to tip over he would let go from the disk and then tumble out. We had to remind him to keep holding on with two hands so he could stay balanced. He had alot more fun when he stayed on for the whole ride.
Hitting the bump and staying on...
Almost over and still hanging on...
We were having so much fun; we attracted attention from the neighbor kids and invited them to come try it out.
Zach trying to keep his balance on the jump.
Hitting is going backwards was a little bit scary, but this little dare devil just held on.
Kirsten taking the jump.
Caleb getting some air and still he has two hands...he's learning by trial and error.
Here he is proud that he made it down with now wipe outs and is headed back for more. Look at that proud smile.

Christmas Day continued...

2010-01-11T09:59:00.001-08:00

As things settled down, Uncle Danny helped Zach put together his new starwars lego ship. Zach is growing up fast, but still loves to build everything he can with legos.
Kirsten got the new advanced Operation game so we had to try it out. There are different difficulty levels that you can turn it to along with sounds that tell you which object that you try to get out with the tweezers.
All the family at the Christmas Dinner. We had a late christmas breakfast after presents too, but I just had to get a picture of all of us fitting in the kitchen.
Ellie was hiding back in the corner in the highchair. We couldn't leave her out. This was her first time in a highchair and she lasted quite a while.
I know it isn't the best of pictures, but it shows everyone! Merry Christmas to Mom and Dad Stitt in Paris from all of us here in the states. All the adults will get a chance to go visit them sometime this year as we all got two round trip tickets to Paris for our Christmas present. It was a real surprise when Rachel opened her card and read the back...she was expecting gift certificates to McDonald's....do they even have McDonalds in Paris?...I guess we will find out. Now onto passports...
As the family was trickling out I got a shot of some of the siblings. (L) Caitlin, Ryan, Aubrey, and Steve.
I always say that Caleb takes after his unlce ryan...what do you think? Maybe I need to get a younger picture of Ryan and then compare? Thanks for coming Ryan and Steve...It was great to have everyone together.