The Grantham Family

Sweet Dalan

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

This little boy of mine can be so CRAZY and SILLY -

Then, he offers these sweet and tender moments and proves to be so sensitive and tender hearted. I love these magical moments! Lately, Dalan has been requesting picture frames for his room. His first request was for Jesus and the temple.

Then, he asked for a picture of both his grandma's. Each night he chooses a picture frame to sleep with to make sure he only has good dreams!
Dave had been travelling quite often, and this particular night I let Dalan sleep in my room. When I came in to tuck myself into bed - this is what I found! Sweet Dalan had made a display on the ground right next to where he was sleeping. It doesn't get any better than that!! Love this sweet little WILD crazy FUNNY man of mine!

2012-01-23T09:25:00.000-08:00

Fun in the man - made snow! Over Christmas break, we took the kids up to the mountains and found us some snow! We had such a fun time with good friends and the kids loved every minute of this!

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-19T09:33:00.000-08:00

2012 is gonna be a good one!!

4th of July FUN!

2011-07-06T15:03:00.000-07:00

What a fun holiday - to dress in red, white, and blue. To feel loyalty and gratitude for our most beautiful country. To be grateful for the men and women who are honorable and give their lives to fight for our freedoms. Proud to be an American. Love the 4th of July!

Dalan blew a dandelion and I said, "make a wish bud!" He replied and said "I did mom. I wished for my own box of matches!" Eeeeekkkkk........

4th of July is probably even better than Christmas for this little one of mine -

Cute girlies waiting patiently for the big firework show!

Khloe was so great this year. With every boom and bang ... she would clap, cheer and give a little WOO!

She would always run to Caleb and jump on his lap, which he loved!

Cute Macie with a sparkler - a little timid this one.

It was such a sweet grand finale as Macie and her 2 friends, Emily and Aubrie called everyone for a performance. They sang the national anthem "The Star Spangled Banner... " and knew the words in sign language (thanks to their kindergarten teacher!) What a great end to a super fun day!

Summer - Summer - Summer TIME!!

2011-07-01T15:41:00.001-07:00

We FINALLY made it to the water park!! Sweet!

Sheesh!

2011-07-01T14:40:00.001-07:00

This is what I have been getting from Khloe lately - it makes me giggle.... does that make me mean?? I just find it so funny that she is upset about - NOTHING!! I know this is just a stage and that it too will pass ... and I honestly don't remember my other two being this emotional! Maybe that means I just forgot, and hopefully this will be shortlived. The terrible two's - bring it!!

*** Life With a 2-Year-Old ... I try to remember that whenever I am feeling frustrated, I think about watching Khloe grow from a baby into an actual person with her own desires, opinions, and a sense of humor. Puppys make her crazy with excitement. She loves the outside. She LOVES to swing and she adores her brother and sister!! I love our nighttime routine as I put her to bed - we say our prayers, tell stories, and every night as I tuck her into bed I am reminded how lucky I am to have her. Even with these "tantrums" - I still manage to laugh at this phase. It too will pass and I know one day I will miss it! ***

J&K come for a visit!!

2011-06-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Jay with Nash & Khloe!

Grandma Kay with Khloe, Mady, and Macie coloring!!

We had a Wii Just Dance Party

Bryan and Amy having a dance off!! (Bryan did win by 20 points!!)

Dalan - being Crazy Dalan!

Playing outside ...

Then we ended the party with a day at ...

THE CIRCUS!!

*** We had so fun during their visit and love so much when they get to come play! I hate that the distance is so great, and wish we could see them much much more! We love and miss you guys so much. ***

Fathers Day!

2011-06-18T09:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to the worlds BEST!!

These two boys have such a sweet bond. They are soooo much alike and share so many interests. I love that they both love being in the garage "workin!" They love camping, fishing, jeep cruising, and anything that will make them dirty! Boys will be boys I guess!

Dave loves these girls to pieces. He calls them his babes and they love and adore him so much! He is so good to play games with them, read stories, tickle attacks, and so much more. What lucky kids they are to have this guy as their DADDY!!

Always goofing around - and that is why we love ya !!

And of course.....you are HER biggest fan and she has the t-shirt to prove it!!

Cheer !!

2011-06-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

Introducing: Aspyn's cheer camp girls!

These are the little girls who live on our street! Every Wednesday after school, they would all meet up for cheer class - by cute Aspyn who did this just for fun! They had such a great time and I loved watching them perform! We had a BBQ/performance so they could show all their hard work to their parents. They did such a great job!!!

School's Out Party!

2011-06-08T18:29:00.001-07:00

To celebrate that school is out our neighbors, The Cromar's, host a water fun party! The kids think this is the best because it really is the first time they get to wear their swimsuits and have some FUN! There were water balloons, water guns, a little pool for the little babes, a new trampoline and lots of yummy snacks! The kids had such a great time and the mom's got to chat it up!! Now bring on SUMMER and the SUN!

(It actually happened to be a warm day today - enough to wear swimwear!)

(The pool water is totally heated!! - good thinking Cromar's!)

Done with Kindergarten....!

2011-06-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

This is what Macie looked like 9 months ago on the first day of school at Hunter Elementary...

I cannot believe that now she is officially done with Kindergarten! She has learned so much this year. She has grown taller. She is smarter. She loves school so much and has made so many great friends! I am really proud of Macie, for all her hard work this year and now we can say....
"School's out for Summer!!" - and we couldn't be more excited!!

Way to go girl!!
*** I just have to include this. On the way to Kindergarten graduation, I had Dalan and Khloe all loaded up in the car to go. We were waiting for Macie to come out and she was taking a few minutes. I was honking the horn so we weren't late! She climbed in the car....wearing green eyeshadow, hot pink lipstick and she was ready for the show! So cute and funny - I couldn't even bring myself to tell her to wash it off. I mean, she was performing afterall - and it was HER last day of school!!! ***

Khloe Bug

2011-06-07T21:00:00.000-07:00

Khloe has fell upon the terrible two's and with that comes T.R.O.U.B.L.E. She is getting much busier and likes to make messes, but I know this is only a phase so I try not to get too worked up about it. She is silly, fun, and makes us laugh all day!

She is obsessed with having her ears cleaned - I dont know why she likes it, but she is always bringing me q-tips for a good cleanout! It makes me giggle...

Macie is so sweet with Khloe - I always try to snap a cute picture of these two "sisters" but I can never quite catch the moment - this one is totally forced and Khloe wasn't too happy about it!!

This is when I realized she really is growing up so fast and has discovered baby dolls and purses. With this discovery comes major 'tude....major major attitude!!

This is sweet Khloe. She loves to sit with the big kids to watch a toonie for just a minute. I don't get too long out of her sitting still, but first thing in the morning she usually does pretty good!

EXAMPLE: When she isn't sitting....she is sliding off the couch Dalan style!!

More than anything - she is so sweet, super cute, and she makes me so HAPPY!

FINALLY!

2011-06-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

We have been waiting 5 years for this day - really it was going to happen. Do you know this kid?? It is really bad timing because the sun is finally ready to come out and shine - but no swimming for this boy, not for 4-5 weeks anyway....

Dalan noticed that there was writing on the lightbulbs. He could not understand why someone would write on them. He climbed up on the counter to get a closer look (ya know, to see the 60 watt bold letters) and insists he "fell" off. I know he jumped! He landed on his arm and I knew he was hurt. We took him to the urgent care and he was given a soft cast and a green popsicle for being so brave.

Our conversation in the waiting room was one that I want to remember. These are a few things that Dalan was saying:
"Mom, what if I would have cracked my head? Would they have to take my brain out??"
"Hey mom, can you tell the doctor that I can lift up our couch!"
"Mom, I can see my bones in that picture." (the x-ray made his day!)
"Mom, there is no such thing as powers huh mom. Ya know like superpowers."

I was told that it was not broken and to just leave it wrapped up for a few days. We tried to take off the wrap 4 days later, and he could not even move his arm so off to the orthopedic we went. New x-rays and an orange cast later - here he is all tatted up and of course, all smiles!

So with doctor orders to keep BOTH feet on the ground at all times to allow healing to take place - this is what he does to keep himself entertained!!

************ UPDATE **************
06/01/2011

We took Dalan back to the doctor, where they removed the ORANGE cast and took more x-rays to see if the fracture would require surgery or not. The good news is that no surgery is required!! The bad news is he needs to be wrapped up for 3 more weeks. The nurse came back in to give Dalan his color options. I LOVED the orange because it served as reflective wear so I could see him at all times on our street. I was really trying to pump him up for neon green....so guess what he picked. I should have known. It is his favorite color afterall....

Dalan preschool graduation

2011-05-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

The first day of school - when Dalan was barely a 4 year old reminds me of how much he has grown and changed!!

Dalan did his 2nd year of preschool with Ms. Jen at "Little Friends Preschool!"

I love this preschool so so much! There are only 6 kids in the class and they all became such great friends!

Dalan was the "ME" kid and we made this darling poster telling all about who he is. We didn't get to cover much, but I just wanted to share a few super cool fun facts about my little guy!

This is him - silly, cute, fun, and BIG - an almost 5 year old!

Macie - Dance Recital

2011-05-14T11:04:00.000-07:00

Macie has been in Sugarbabies this year - dancing on a team! It took a lot of practice each week - afterschool on Thursdays for 2 hours. She had so much fun, met some great friends, and learned some super cute dances. She performed quite a bit throughout the year, and as hard as it was to get her out to dance each week - seeing her on the stage made it all worth it! Her smiling face made me smile, and was so rewarding! Way to go MACIE!!

Gotta love all that stage makeup!!!

Macie with her cute friend Tessa

Dad trying to teach you a new trick!

That's it - MUAH!!!

Macie - music recital

2011-05-14T10:29:00.000-07:00

Macie has been taking a music class all year long - this is her 2nd year and she has accomplished so much! It required her to practice on the piano 5 days a week, and she was also responsible to turn in a homework assignment each week. It taught her that hard work and practice are so rewarding! By the end of the year - she can read notes, she can play the major scale and knows all the chords on her right and left hand. It has been really neat to watch her sit down on the piano and play a real song - and she sings her little heart out!!

Macie and her friend Hallie Richardson take the class together!

I am so proud of you Macie!

rocket ship

2011-05-13T10:30:00.000-07:00

Dalan and Dave ventured out one afternoon - and came home with a "real life" rocket ship. Dalan was beside himself and could not believe that they got to build it and launch it off!

Introducing.....the VORTEX!

The moment we have all been waiting for....time to launch!

We gathered up a bunch of the neighborhood kids and headed over to the school! The kids had a blast and we can't wait to do it again! The anticipation was so fun and even these crazy little girls thought it was cool!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-10T20:47:00.001-07:00

I feel so blessed to call these kids mine!!

My man surprised me with his and hers bike beach cruisers for Mothers Day! I have been wanting some ever since our Sun Valley trip and we rented them for the day! It is so fun to have an activity we can all do as a family.

This little girl is such a great helper. I love so much that she is willing to get Khloe out of her crib each morning so I don't have to trek up the stairs! She is a true-born mini ME! I see so much of myself in this little one, who isn't so little anymore. It puts into perspective the important role a mother has and how much kids really do soak up all that you do and say - and become a little part of you that reflects in their personality.

*** MACIE wrote me the sweetest note:

Der Mom,
I love you bekus i like yor hugs and kisis.
Love,
Macie

The best part was the South Beach Peanut Butter Protein Cereal Bar attached by tape! She watches me and knows - these are my favorite!

DALAN my smiley curious boy. He has me wrapped around his mischevious little finger! This boy melts me. He is so naughty - yet he is the one who keeps us laughing at all times. This boy is all boy, but he is also the most tender-hearted sensitive little guy and can be so sweet. My favorite is when he says, "I I I I love you mom!"

KHLOE - I love this litle one. She is my baby and I am so in love! I love that she needs me. She is the one that demands most of my attention and walks around chanting, "Mama!" It makes me feel special and loved back!

"It is natural for females to have feelings of charity and benevolence. The ability to nurture does not bring applause from the world, but because it tenderly lifts so many lives it is probably one of the most significant talents you have. Seek to cultivate it. If you live up to your privelages, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates." - Joseph Smith

"Mother," more than any other word is held in universal esteem by all people. It brings forth from the soul the most tender of hidden emotions, prompts more good deeds, kindles memories' fires as they burn low, and reminds all to strive to be better. - Thomas S. Monson

I love being a mother - they give me reason to be. Reason to smile. Reason to laugh. Cry. Love. Life is good!

Easter Time!!

2011-04-23T19:42:00.000-07:00

EASTER EGG HUNT

This was the 5th annual Easter egg hunt hosted by our family - and once again it was a success! The kids had a blast, and there were a lot of them this year. The adults have fun eating yummy food and chatting while the kids run around and play OUTSIDE!! This is the crew gearing up to get their hunt on while the eggs were being hidden.

Twinner sisters who are dressed the same - but truly look nothing alike!

EASTER MORNING

Easter is one of my very favorite holidays! I love the hunt. I love the bright spring colors. I love watching my kids get excited. I love chocolate and candy. I love the idea that we get to color eggs. Most importantly, I love that it is also a special way to reflect on the Resurrection of the Savior. It is a great teaching moment for the kids. It is just FUN, FUN, FUN!!!

Macie and Dalan - good morning!

Khloe wasn't quite ready to wake up...

Here is all their basket finds!!

Khloe got a baby doll - but she was most excited about all the SUGAR in her basket!

Macie has been asking for Squinkies - she was a happy girl!

First sign of Spring, bubbles. Bubs couldn't wait to get outside!

Easter best, but not the best picture! They are all 3 looking at the camera so this is the best I got. It was stake conference on Easter sunday and don't they look sharp!!

Sweet & Sassy Khloe

2011-04-06T23:07:00.000-07:00

You are so sweet, yet so sassy, and you are getting a bit fiesty these days! You have established your independence and you are now on foot - which really means you are on the run! I am watching you sweet thing, and I sure love you Khlo bug!

Star Student

2011-04-06T22:51:00.000-07:00

Macie was recognized at her school assembly for being the star student of the month for FRIENDSHIP!

This is such an appropriate award for her. She is such a great friend. The minute she walks in the door after school, she is ready to play with a friend, any friend. I love this about her and think it is such a great quality. She is loyal, kind, sweet, generous and I know that this will carry with her as she continues to grow and that this kind of "friendship" will one day turn into her way of serving others. She will have the ability to radiate love to everyone around her. Macie, you are a shining star and such a great example of what friendship means and I am so proud of you!

*** Scarlett, Macie, and Eliza - such good friends to one another ***

Worker Man!

2011-04-06T22:44:00.000-07:00

Dalan loves his tools so much. He takes his work very seriously! I was downstairs and I heard some noise going on so I ran up to see what he could possibly be doing. This is what I found!

I think it is so great that he has such a passion for his tools and that he really desires to be a "worker man" when he grows up. That night at bedtime when playing the game..."what is your favorite???" I asked him what his favorite sport was. He said, "Mom, what is a sport!!" I said WHAT. Ya know like baseball, basketball, football. He said oh. I like wrestling. I then asked him what his favorite tool was! He immediately responded and said, "Probably an allen wrench." I told Dave he should probably start throwing him a ball here and there, but for now - I think I will keep my worker man busy. He is actually pretty helpful!

Monster Jam

2011-04-06T22:37:00.001-07:00

We took Macie & Dalan to the monster truck show and had such a great day! We drank soda, ate popcorn and candy, screamed really loud to try to talk to one another - and got to see really great big HUGE monster trucks in real life!!

Indoor Campout

2011-04-06T22:12:00.000-07:00

We went camping....in the freezing temperatures of March, but we kept it IN-DOORS!!

We might have just made a HUGE mistake teaching our kids (DALAN) that you can actually roast marshmallows over a hot flame to make smores!

Oh well!

Sleeping in a tent, watching a movie, from the comfort and HEAT of our own home

- so worth it!!

Khloe's day to day...

2011-04-06T21:46:00.002-07:00

This little one has been causing trouble lately - but I just keep reminding myself it is just a phase. A short one, and one that I know I will miss someday!

Helping mama "unload" the dishwasher!

All tuckered out from a days work and ready to just chill out!

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-04-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

Valentines Day is a girl's favorite holiday....roses are a must! (But truth be told, I think they are a big waste of money, but I guess they are pretty to look at and this year the flowers were for the little girls, not the mama!) Phew.

Yummy - nothin like a little chocolate heaven fondue party to seal the deal!!

Happy New Year 2011!

2011-02-26T21:55:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year - lets make 2011 a great one!

YAE! Grandma and Grandpa Grantham drove all the way up to ring in the new year!!

Oh yes we did......fireworks at midnight!

Noisemakers and all!

All while this baby was sleeping...

Khloe is vertical!

2011-02-21T18:38:00.000-08:00

Guess who woke up this morning and decided to be a walking girl....

KHLOE - who is 5 days shy of 18 months....is now a walker - thanks to this "walker!!"

A friend of mine said to put her in a long dress so it was harder to crawl....

This is what it looks like - Bum in the air!

She can go up and down stairs and can crawl as fast as lightning, she just needed to get the balance thing down.

Here is the adventures of Khloe finding her balance and getting the braves to stand...and WALK! Woot Woot ...

Show time! Ready, Set...

STAND...

and... Falling!

"I'm tired, this is hard work"

Babysteps girl....look how proud of herself she is!

The grand finale - Khloe is officially on the move by foot!! Way to go Khlo Bug!

Macie turns 6!

2011-02-09T14:20:00.000-08:00

Macie's birthday party

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T08:16:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year. I love that we have traditions that our kids will remember for a long time, and that they will maybe carry on to their children one day.

Of course - it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas with this beauty!

Our advent calendar - to countdown how many days until Christmas. Each little box contains a small treat for each kid!

Another tradition our kids love (and I LOVE LOVE) is Mr. Peeps! This little elf moves to a new spot each day (and sits way up high) to watch and report to Santa Claus if the kids are making good choices. He only flys at night when the little ones are fast asleep! This elf is magical and the kids know not to touch him - or else he can lose his special powers. On Christmas eve, he lands on our Christmas tree...and by Christmas morning Santa picks him up and takes him back to The North Pole.

We started a new tradition this year: This is our Service tree! After a really inspiring RS Christmas program, I really wanted my kids to serve others and see that it truly "is better to give than to receive!" Every time the kids showed an act of kindness by serving another, they were given an ornament to hang on our tree! They made the poster of the tree and were really excited to decorate it with different ornaments that they had to earn. This was a really great way for them to see what a difference it makes to serve and be kind this Christmas season!!

On Christmas Eve, we headed over to The Johnson's house for Brittany's world famous Belgium Waffles topped with strawberries, whip cream, and homemade syrup! We had breakfast for dinner and it was heaven!
Our host: Brittany Johnson!!

Grantham's, Johnson's, and the Weaver's! Ms. Jenn is Dalan's preschool teacher so he was pretty excited to have their family join us! (Also, he loves her boys and Hannah babysits my kids and they adore her!)

We watched "Joy to the World" to remind the kids the real reason we celebrate this season and remember Christ's birth. After the movie, the kids acted out the Christmas story using puppets!

Of course the tradition on Christmas Eve is to let the kids open just one present - and every year it is a new pair of pajamas!

Aren't they cute!

Our Family on Christmas Eve!

CHRISTMAS MORNING!!!!

Of course the tradition, Cookies for Santa - with beautiful artwork from the children!

Sugarplum fairies dancing in their heads....

(I could never get a picture of Khloe because she is such a light sleeper...)

I think this one is more for ME! I am in love with Orange Rolls. I never make them, but you bet ya on Christmas morning - it is our thing. However, I am a little bummed because I am pretty sure my kids don't love them. I know. How could they not???

A new tradition this year: The Christmas Pickle

We got this as a neighbor gift this year - and it is such a cute idea! On Christmas Eve, we hide the green pickle on the green tree, and whoever finds it on Christmas morning gets to open the first present! Look who got it....miss Macie!

The Mr. Claus

The Mrs. Claus

MACIE ALLIN ON CHRISTMAS MORNING!

Macie made this ornament at school as a gift for her parents!

This is what Mrs. Clause stood outside of Toys R Us for 2 hours in the freezing cold waiting for - this singing machine and I am happy to say it has been a total hit! Macie loves to perform and she looks good doing it!

Her FAVORITE gift this year is her American Girl doll. She has been taking little "Jenny" everywhere with her. Changing her clothes 5 x a day, having a tea party, tucking her in at night...meet Macie's new sidekick! I love that she is still playing with dolls - it keeps her young a little longer!!

DALAN CRAIG ON CHRISTMAS MORNING!

Dalan's wish list came true this year when he asked for "Molten Hot Lava!" Mom and Dad delivered with this volcano kit! He was sooooo excited :)

This present turned into a days work with his daddy!

Working hard - and Dalan couldn't be happier. This is CHRISTMAS for him for sure!!

The finished product!

Another favorite - his rocket ship!

KHLOE LIN ON CHRISTMAS MORNING!

Christmas Sunday Best! I love the tradition of getting the kids coordinating outfits for church. I don't know why - but I love this. I think they look so cute when they are all dressed up...and I am hoping by them feeling good, will make them act this way at church!!!

*** What a beautiful holiday and time of year this is. There is definitely something so special about Christmas. It is magical for the kids. It is a time for families to be together. There is a special chill in the air. I love so much Christmas music playing. The smell of my snowberry scentsy makes me so happy. Baking and holiday treats. There is a spirit in the home of goodness, kindness, and serving others. I am so thankful we recognize this and are able to take some time out of our daily routine to truly reflect on the birth of our Savior. What a beautiful thing. ***

Merry Merry Christmas 2010!

2010-12-25T15:41:00.000-08:00

"Oh no...the big Three-Oh!"

2010-12-20T20:42:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe I am of age to be in the old lady club!

These wonderful peeps of mine threw me a fabulous surprise birthday party. I have always dreamed of a surprise party, well ok, maybe when I was like a twelve year old. However, waiting 30 years was totally worth it! All of my favorite people came and I was truly surprised!

(Up until we pulled up to pick up the Johnson's for dinner to go to our favorite restaurant Texas Roadhouse and she asked me to come in for a bit to wait for their sitter. Still didn't suspect anything until I got out of the car and glanced down the street to see a red volvo knowing there is only one of those that belongs to my friend Kirsten. I was a little tipped off, but for sure didn't expect all my friends to be there!)

We had a great night - Dinner was already waiting. Blimpie sandwiches, salad, chips, soda... and my very favorite dessert on the planet: Kirsten's home-made Brownies with chocolate frosting and a scoop of vanilla ice cream! She also made me my very own pan to take home with me, and I am pretty sure I ate the entire thing!

Lyric put together a fun "name that tune game from the 80's and 90's) It was so fun to hang out with people I love and my husband was awesome to pull this off (of course thanks to miss Brittany!)

I really have to give Brittany a shout out. You are such an amazing friend! You really made this happen and Dave willingly gives you all the credit. I love ya!

I have been told that being in your 30's means that you really seem to know who you are and are able to truly be yourself and it is like so much better than the 20's. I am hoping this is true! I am ready to be a thirty something and can say see ya later 29. Not scared at all!! I have a great life at 30. I have an amazing husband and 3 beautiful children. Life is good. No complaints from me! None.

Macie's Christmas Dance Recital video!

2010-12-20T17:02:00.000-08:00

McCall!

2010-12-19T09:49:00.000-08:00

We went to McCall for a fun little get away with our good friends, the Johnson's!

The kids were so excited to get to stay the night at a hotel!

There was an indoor swimming pool and the kids had a blast!

Macie and her cute friend Aubrie in their matchy-matchy swimming suits!

This crazy man Dalan has no fear - check out his form!

Khloe LOVED to splash in the water - she was so cute!

The next morning we woke up and got in our snow gear and headed to "The Activity Barn!" It was so great - you grab your tube and hook it up to a cable line and it tugs you up the mountain you always wanna sled down, but never wanna climb up!

Our Family!

The kiddos!

The Johnson Family!

Dalan went up and down the mountain so many times - he LOVED every minute of it!

Khloe wasn't so sure about being all bundled up like a big snowball although she was a great sport! No sledding for this little one, but she did a ride in the tube with her dad pulling her around in circles!

What a great weekend filled with lots of fun with great friends!

Dalan's Christmas Fiesta!

2010-12-17T08:22:00.000-08:00

Dalan woke up this morning and I gave him the task of running upstairs to get dressed - by himself. Usually his clothes are already layed out for him to wear, but I just hadn't gotten to it yet. He was excited and came down wearing this:

He then proceeded to ask me if I would please get out our slip n' slide because he was dressed and ready to go swimming! ps. It is a whoppin 38 degrees around here today - I told him he would freeze! He then ran back to the laundry room to put these on and said:

"These will keep me warm!" I tell ya - this boy is always thinking!!!

He finally managed to put on appropriate clothes for the occasion of his Christmas Fiesta preschool party! They have been learning about different countries and this week they were learning about Mexico, hence the fiesta and look how handsome Dalan looks with a super cute sombrero!

They played "Pin the tail on the Donkey"

They had a pinata!

Dalan's 4 year old preschool class!

Macie's Christmas Dance Recital!

2010-12-15T08:07:00.000-08:00

Macie had her Christmas dance recital and she did a super great job! She is on a company team called Sugarbabies. They performed to "It's a Small World After All!" I wish I would had a picture of her entire class - there were 2 cowgirls, 2 indians, 2 hula girls, and 2 cute little Geisha girls!

The performance, the stage, the lights, watching Macie smile and shine is so worth the effort it takes to get her to and from dance each week. Dave and I loved to see her smile and have so much fun! Love this little cowgirl of mine!!

YEE - HAW!

A few of Macie's friends from Impulse!

We are so proud of you Macie!

2010-12-15T07:51:00.001-08:00

Dalan just spilled a bottle of water on our leather couch and said this, "I was drinking the water mom and it was so cold that my mouth turned into ice and then it made my hand slippery and I dropped it!" Really??

Gingerbread Houses!

2010-12-13T12:12:00.001-08:00

Look at my sweet little Christmas Reindeer!

I had a Gingerbread House Kit in my grocery cart the other day...and was only buying it because the kids had said they wanted to do one this year - but I did not want the mess. Then I remembered a friend of mine had told me about these easy foam ones instead! They turned out super cute and the kids had so much fun making them. It seriously took them all day - and was great entertainment for them and no mess for me - a win win!!
(Don't worry, there was plenty of candy eating while making them!!)

All about me....VIP!

2010-12-11T10:48:00.000-08:00

*** It was Macie's turn to be the VIP at school. She had to make a poster that describes her and then she had to present it in front of the class and tell what each item on the poster represents.
This is MACIE ***

She loves anything sweet - just like her mama!
Her favorite lunch is Mac n cheese, but she also LOVES hamburgers!
She loves barbies, her leapster, strawberry shortcake, but I would have to say her favorite thing to do is coloring
(see the little crayon she taped on there!)
She loves to go swimming with her little brother Dalan!
She loves her little sissy Khloe!
(In the picture they are dressed as "twinners!"
She loves her friend Scarlett and loves to play in the snow!
She loves flowers and pretty things and her favorite color is pink!

I love you miss Macie and have to agree...you definitely are a VIP!!

High Hopes!

2010-12-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

Dalan is ALWAYS, and I mean ALWAYS "Starvin!" Seriosuly. The boy can eat and eat and eat! Today, while he was on one of his binges, he asked me, "Mom, what do people in jail eat?" I told him gross yucky food. A few minutes later he said, "Mom, what do garbage mans eat?" I told him they eat just like we all do - yummy food. Should I be concerned about this little boys aspirations for the future....we shall see!

Polar Express

2010-12-05T08:17:00.000-08:00

We had such a fun Saturday taking the kids on the Polar Express train! We snacked, made it to see Santa, and were greeted with cookies and milk! The kids were able to play in the snow - eat more cookies and junk food...and enjoy the day as a family minus Khloe, due to nap time :(

The train!

Dalan in cookie heaven and is all smiles!

Macie our little eskimo!

Dalan found the fire...and didn't care about Santa or cookies or snow...

The train ride - isn't it beautiful!

Santa Claus boarded the train!

We went with the Richardson family...love this family!

*** We had such a great time and it was such a fun "magical" day for the kids. They were at the perfect age to be able to go on a train and visit Santa... I felt bad that we didn't have Khloe, but honestly it would have ruined a lot of it for the big kids. She would have been cold. tired. hungry. and it would have made mom grumpy!! We will for sure do this again, it was super fun! ***

Snow Day!

2010-12-01T16:11:00.000-08:00

LOOK - It's a SNOW day in Idaho today, and a voicemail in Spanish at 5 am told me so!

We were greeted with friends ringing the doorbell early in the morning, ready to play!

Time for a SNOWBALL fight!

And some SLEDDING...

Khloe wasn't up for it, but the snow hat sure looks cute on her!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T18:11:00.000-08:00

*** I am so thankful we made the trip, and then made it home alive after a nasty snow storm on the way home. This is probably the reason we haven't traveled for the last 4 years. I just didn't think I could stomach another Thanksgiving at our local Golden Corral. You would truly be surprised the crowd that goes there....never again for us! This year we were definitely due for some family time and it was sooooo nice and we had such a great trip ***

This little lady we like to call Mama Mags, (my sweet mom) and this is the reason we make the 10 hour trip! My kids adore her - I think she is pretty amazing also!!

These cousins don't get to see each other very often - and we sure miss them.

As you can see, these boys are pals and have so much FUN together!!

This is my favorite brother! I love him and his adorable family!!

I sure miss my dad. I have so many memories of him when I come back to St George. I took the kids to the cemetery, and Macie and Dalan had drawn him a picture. Dalan asked, "Mom, is grandpa Craig going to come out of the ground to get my picture and then go back in?" I could only wish. I wish I could see him, that my kids could know him. He truly was a great, great dad and I miss him badly.

Next stop: Las Vegas!! I wanted to do something fun - so we loaded up the kids and headed down to the strip to the M&M Factory...

Look at all those beautiful colored M&M's....and they only cost $12.99 / lb. ???

Dalan discovered this car....and we were laughing so hard because he just wanted to crawl underneath and check things out....so Dalan!

Macie was excited to find 'M's everywhere....she was so cute!

Little miss Paige was the best helper...she loves Khloe and was so great with her!

I love these 2 little girlies....although, could they look any more different!??

Now...for the moment we have all been waiting for! The feast!!! Jay and Kay were so excited to finally, have all of their children, all 7 of them and it was sooooo nice to be together!

Here we all are!

Dave and 3 of his brothers.

My sister-in-laws who are so fun! It is so fun to marry into a family and gain new best friends. Love these girls!

Happy Birthday Dave!

2010-11-21T18:06:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday sweets! You are officially in your 30's....make them the best yet!

A Pre-Thanksgiving Feast

2010-11-19T00:10:00.000-08:00

Macie and Dalan got to have a party at school today and have a special Thanksgiving feast. It is always fun to see the kids get excited and get to have mom at school with them for a little celebration!

Macie my little feast-er, who went back for 3rds!

Dalan - my cute little pilgrim boy, who was also named "Boy with many words and smiles" That truly was his Indian name given to him by Ms. Jenn! Is that her way of saying, the boy is cute, but he sure knows how to chat!!!!

Sweet Sisterly Love!

2010-11-11T07:00:00.001-08:00

Love these 2 sweeties of mine! I really hope these 2 girls - with a 5 year gap, are still the best of friends. Macie loves Khloe and it is obvious the feelings are mutual!

Funny conversation with Dalan

2010-11-08T08:11:00.000-08:00

Dalan said the following is his wish list for Christmas this year:

1. A real gun
2. Flying shoes so he can get to grandma's anytime he wants
3. Melted hot lava - check. Just got him a volcano kit!
4. A real live rocket ship! - ok a Matchbox Rocket Ship will have to do, but check.
5. Chocolate Eyeballs
6. A telescope to look at the crust of the earth

"Where did we get this boy" I said to Dave??? Dalan responded and said, "From Jesus!"

A typical conversation with Dalan tonight when I tucked him in bed:

Mom: Dalan if you are naughty, Santa brings little kids a lump of coal in their Christmas stocking.
Dalan: But, what is coal?
Mom: It is black rocks!
Dalan: But are they heavy?
Mom: Yea. They are heavy.
Dalan. But do they hurt?
Mom: No, they don’t hurt, but it's not something you can play with.
Dalan. But so are they heavy?
Mom: Yea they are
Dalan: But could dad carry the coal?
Mom: of course. Dad is the strongest man in the world.
Dalan: But could he lift our house!?
Mom: Yes he could totally lift up our house.
Dalan: But what is under our house?
Mom: Rocks and dirt.
Dalan: But what is under the rocks and dirt
DAD: More dirt Dalan.
Dalan: But where does dirt come from?
Mom: Dad you got this one!
Dalan: But mom... do you have bones in your body.
Mom: Yes Dalan.
Dalan: But are bones breakable?

And it goes on and on and on and on and on...

One question leads into another question, which then leads into another question. He plays 20 questions 20 x a day!

Happy Halloween 2010

2010-11-04T16:14:00.001-07:00

The soon to be pumpkin creation on paper!

"Look kids!" Dad secretly LOVES to touch pumpkin guts!!! Hee Hee

Dalan was a little too comfortable with pumpkin guts!

Macie's face says it all!

Dalan was just so concerned about the "fire" that goes inside the pumpkin - and was devastated when we told him, the pumpkin was to small to light up. He even added "whiskers" on his special pumpkin. What a guy!

Khloe bug was just happy as can be crawling around on the floor - and discovered the open fridge door! She could care less about pumpkins and fire!

Celebrating 3 days of Halloween - thanks to the fact that it fell on a Sunday this year. First up, we had the 3rd annual Los Flores Spook Alley! Our neighborhood gets together for a dinner followed by games in several garages along our street. It really is a great time and the kids had so much fun this year!

The next night was our ward trunk or treat...

THEN....we celebrated Halloween by getting together with friends to trick or treat around the neighborhood.

This was the ONLY picture I got of the 3 kids together - wow! I will improve for next year's photo shoot!

Macie our little cowgirl!

She was a little bummed and told me the night of our spook alley that she didn't want to be a "dumb cowgirl!" She saw her friend Scarlett in her princess dress-up and Eliza as a cheerleader, and Macie wanted make-up on...and fingernail polish. I promise next year it will be totally up to her who she dresses up as....oops!

Dalan was batman one night - then spider-man the next!

Khloe was a sweet butterfly! Funny story - I didn't give too much thought this year about costumes and didn't want to spend $$$ so I remembered I had been given a butterfly costume by my friend Christina. In my head, I just imagined it was the right size...until the night of our first dress up event! I pulled it out of the closet and it was a 0-6 mos. CRAP! Good thing Khloe is a shrimp and it totally worked!!!!

Kid randomness

2010-11-04T16:03:00.000-07:00

These pictures sum up my kids personalities perfectly!

First up: Macie and her major coloring habit! She colors the minute she rolls out of bed, will color right up until we are running out the door for school, and she continues to color after dinner, bath, and right before bedtime! She has been collecting her artwork and decided they needed to be on display! She took all her days coloring work and set up shop upstairs!

Ta-Dah!

Here she is blowing kisses to all her fans!

Dalan is my guy when I need batteries replaced or need any work around the house done. He is so good with tools it is pretty impressive! The best part is he knows right where the screwdriver is - and the batteries and he is my personal handy man around the house! He helped get Khloe's chair working so it can sing to her!!!

Khloe gives us 2 thumbs up for the "Monster Tracker" 100 oz refill mug that Dave seems to fill up daily with his diet dr pepper addiction - WOW!

She is getting a little busier - as seen here getting into the pantry! She is still so sweet and doesn't give me any trouble!! Love this girl :)

Barber to Boise 10k

2010-11-04T15:36:00.000-07:00

Instead of doing a Saturday morning long run, some friends and I decided to sign up for a 10k. The entire course was running on the greenbelt - it was so pretty! It was fun to end at the BSU football stadium and I will for sure be doing this one next year.

All us girls!
(Nichelle, me, Rachelle, Kris, Kaidree, and Natalie!)

My amazing family!!

The kids thought it was pretty great too!

*** Running just keeps getting better and better for me. I feel like I am finally getting to the point where it is enjoyable - and so rewarding! For sure a lot of hard work, but it is in a twisted way, sweet sweet pain! ***

SOJO 1/2 Marathon!

2010-09-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

Twas time for a girls trip to Utah. I was looking forward to the weekend in Salt Lake to see family and hang with friends and relax. The real purpose of the trip was to run the SOJO - a 1/2 marathon. The race had the word marathon in it, which really equals 13.1 miles.

I brought miss Macie with me so she could hang with her bestie cousin Cali!

It was also pretty great to get to meet my newest niece Quinn!

The day finally arrived, after little to no sleep. For some reason the anxiety totally got the best of me and I had a really crappy night. My mind kept "racing" and I was unable to fully just relax and dream the night away. I was scared.

I remember thinking as I was on the bus heading to the start line, "How did this happen? Really, when did I truly decide to RUN a 1/2 marathon?" I don't really remember how it came to be. All my friends up here in Idaho run. So, Natalie and I decided that if we wanted to join in on any conversations, it would require some work. The running began.

Fast forward 4 months and I was off to run my first race... all 13.1 miles of it!

I felt great. The adrenaline kicked in and I was pushing myself and going faster than I normally run. I was maintaining a good pace. I felt like all the training I had done was worth it. I had new music on my ipod and I was in a happy place! The water stops were often and I felt so good that at mile 9 I passed on the water. I didn't realize there wouldn't be water until mile 12 and I was struggling through, but I kept on running.

And I even finished, which was my only goal!

It was even better to run across the finish line to see my favorite girlies holding these pieces of art!

What a great support I had at the end. I struggled through that last mile, and it was so rewarding to see the people that mean the most to me when I felt so weak.

Thanks to my mom for driving all that way and with her own personalized medal to give me - thanks again mom for the necklace, it means a lot to me!

And these girls right here are total rock stars and we all had something to cheer about!

See. We did it and we all have the shirts to prove it!

I feel so much stronger for it - I would even do it again!

Khloe is crawling!!!!

2010-09-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

See this great big smile!

Here is the bait...

The pathetic reach!

The long awaited first crawl (12 mos and 2 weeks!)

and HOOK!

Way to go miss Khloe! This should open up a whole new world for you...let the exploring begin!

Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

Dave's parents are so great about making the 11 hour drive up to see us all the way from Las Vegas. It was so nice to have a long holiday weekend and be able to spend time with them. Our kids love it so much when they come visit and they are so great with our kids.

Dave couldn't wait to get his dad up here to do a few things to his new truck.

Here are the boys workin' hard in the garage, grease monkeys getting their hands dirty!

This is Dal's pure passion in life....tools and grease!

While the boys were workin'...the girls were inside getting miss Macie ready for school! Grandma and Felicia got to walk her to Kindergarten and it was so nice and fun for Felicia to get her all ready for school!

She wanted to wear "Felicia lipstick!"

And of course she wanted the poof we call "Felicia hair!"

Grandma insisted on spoiling the kids, and she is a BIG fan of Build-a-Bear! Macie was so super excited to build her bear!

Dalan rubbing the heart on his cheek for good luck!

Grandma Kay loves to bring her grandkids to build-a-bear...and we love her for it! Macie picked out her own outfit, and Dal of course turned his bear into a firefighter!

The reward for good behavior at the mall...the alligator (aka the escalator!)

We headed over to the ballon festival downtown Saturday night and it was a lot of fun for the kids to see hot air balloons in real life!

There were 10 hot air balloons all lined up and the entire community said a chant that went a little something like 3....2.....1.....BURN! This is what Dalan was like the entire night...a great big huge smile. He thought it was the coolest!

Felicia and Dal!

Khloe thought it was pretty great too...

We all did!

It was a really fun night and the kids haven't stopped talking about it!

Grandma, Poppy, and Weesha left early on Labor Day so we decided to have a family day and take the kids fishing at a local park. It was such a beautiful day and we are so sad to see these days come to an end....

Dave getting ready to get his fish on!

Macie & Dal checking out the pond!

Macie and Khloe playing in the grass - not a care in the world!

I love Khloe's little pony tail and her hair is growing in so great!

The kids got a little bored of fishing so we headed over to the playground! Khloe loves the swings at the park. She gives the biggest smile!!

This year, Dalan learned to "pump" all by himself. This is great news for mom!!! Way to go buddy.

Macie is working on mastering the monkey bars!

So long Summer. Can't wait for next year!

First Day of School

2010-09-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

Macie: Age 5 1/2 and in Kindergarten. I cannot believe this day is here and that you are at the big school. I'm not sad. I haven't let any tears drip because I know you are going to love school. I am super excited for you to experience these fabulous years of elementary school. I have the best memories of my childhood at this age. For as social as you are, I know that this is the beginning of new friendships, lots of fun, many memories, and tons and tons of learning! You are such a sweet little girl Macie and we are so proud of you!

Lucky girl gets to walk to school!

Mom & Dad there to support you on your big day.

Dalan: Age 4 - Round 2 of pre-school with Ms. Jenn. You look so sharp buddy. You are a little nervous for some reason. You asked me what to do if you got scared. With a smile as big of yours, I am pretty sure fear will be no factor!

Dalan's preschool class

Happy Birthday Khloe!

2010-08-26T07:50:00.000-07:00

Look who turns 1 today! What a BIG girl you are.

Khloe's 1 year stats:

19 lb 3 oz
30 inches long

Still no crawling or walking...just rolling around, but you are as content as can be and that makes mama very happy too!

Here she is in her birthday best.... It makes me giggle because she is so serious!

Macie helping me decorate the birthday cupcakes!

Khloe's very own BIG girl cupcake cake!

She doesn't seem that interested...

But once she discovered the taste of that cake, she was all about it -

And she kept going back for more!

All the cute girlies cheering her on thinking Khloe was so funny!

And in the end, she was ONE happy ONE year old!!

I love this little babers so much. A few things I want to remember about you as a one year old:

- I love how you always krinkle your little nose up when you are getting a little frustrated, or need some attention!
- You love to mimic us. We clap you clap. We laugh you laugh. We clickety clack our tongue...you do it louder!
- You are turning into a bit of a picky eater (AAGGGHHH) and it is exhausting trying to feed you...not to mention a bit messy!
- Not on the move yet. You don't even seem to care that you could get around if you wanted to. You are happy to watch and observe the chaos around you and I love ya for it!
- You love Macie and Dalan so much and whenever they come around you, you are all giggles and smiles!

Camping

2010-08-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

We did not go anywhere this summer. We did not even escape the Boise city limits. How lame are we??? I kept thinking we would be heading to St George and then it just kept getting pushed back. Now, there is only 1 week left of Summer and no more time to travel...

We have been outside a lot! Playing at Roaring Springs, swimming, library trips, picnics, park days, and the kids had a lot of fun playing outside with friends. Macie had dance camp, Little Miss Homemakers, and they both went to Hannah Camp a couple of times. It has been so nice to have nowhere to be, no schedule, and time to play with my kids! I have had to let a lot of things go with the house, and there is evidence that we truly did not leave much!

Dave got a tent for Fathers Day so we decided to camp in our backyard. It worked out really great so Khloe could sleep in her own room (we had a monitor plugged in through an extension cord) and we watched a movie with ice cream in the tent and had a little campout. Dave & I didn't get much sleep that night, but the kids had a lot of fun! There was just one little boy who was disappointed that there was no FIRE!

Hopefully next summer, we will adventure out into the woods for a real campout. But for now, this one will have to do!

Hello Gorgeous!

2010-08-11T18:26:00.001-07:00

Macie all of a sudden had 2 teeth wiggling. I didn't realize she was "of age" to be losing her teeth quite yet. She lost the first one, and then 2 days later the 2nd one fell right out (ok, Dave really yanked it out!) Macie was pretty nervous about this and said to me, "Mom, are my friends going to think I look weird?" It made me giggle, but she knows she is absolutely beautiful! She came in the room after losing that second tooth and said, "HELLLLOOOOO GORGEOUS!"

Wiggling the tooth in the mirror!

It came out! It came out!

Macie's special gift to the tooth fairy, a beautiful pink flower!

"Toothleth Mathie"

And one gorgeous new haircut later....Here is my big girl who is 5 1/2, going to kindergarten in 2 weeks, missing 2 teeth, and she looks so grown up. (sniff, sniff)

I Have to end with this sweet picture of my girlies!! Lately Macie has been totally trying to be "in charge" of Khloe. However, she thinks she is capable of picking Khloe up and carrying her from room to room.... Because of this, Khloe spends a lot of time in her HIGH chair so she is out of harms way. Maybe this is why she is 2 weeks away from turning 1 and still not crawling! For some reason, I am totally ok with this!

Happy Birthday Destruct - O - Dal Dal

2010-08-02T07:49:00.000-07:00

Look who is the big 4!

He got his very favorite Lucky Charms for breakfast. What a "Lucky" boy!!

For his special day we went to Roaring Springs Water Park for the day!

"Stick To-Gedder"
We got season passes here and the very first time we went, 10 minutes in and Dalan got lost...at a water park, where there is water. A mom's worse nightmare. There were 9,000 people there so I just asked the lifeguard to help me find him in the kiddie area. He had wandered off trying to look for me. The lifeguard found him pretty quick, but it really scared both Dalan and Macie. This actually was a really good thing because for the rest of the summer, the two of them totally did just that and were always stuck together!

I'm pretty sure he had a super fun time!

We made a special cake for Dal Dal. The kids really wanted to help. Their part was to lick the batter...yum yum!

Waiting for the birthday cake to be baked!

Dalan's latest love is his bike. I can't keep him off of this thing. Even though he has crashed and burned and scabbed his knees, cheeks, and elbows so many times...he loves this thing! This was the inspiration for his cake.

I couldn't find a bicycle figurine, so we got a motorcycle instead and VOILA!

Dalan's latest obsession is FIRE. This is no bueno, I know. He has learned that you can turn the knob on my stove and the gas flame turns into FIRE. I caught him turning it on the lowest setting, going into the backyard to find his sticks, and then proceeding to bring them into the house to play pretend camping with the "FIRE."

So...when you see how happy he is to have his very own birthday cake, he is even more excited that there are candles on it that have FIRE (which is why there are STICKS in his hand) Where did we get this boy!!??!!

Dalan's mountain of presents!

Bug Vaccuum. All boys love bugs. He had a spider caught in this the second he opened it. What a guy!

Baseball. This is his latest obsession and we have since taught him that a "baseball hitter" is really called a bat. He got this fun baseball hitter thingy that he thinks is pretty great.

Weed Trimmer. (Round 2) He got one of these when he turned 2 and it is currently duct taped together and he will not part ways with it. Thanks Bumma Mags for pulling through on this one! He hasn't stopped playing with it, and it actually makes noise again (THANKS!)

Happy Happy day to this little guy who I cannot believe is 4. You make our crazy lives crazier, happier, funnier, full of adventure, mystery, and everything in between. You bring laughter, joy, and all kinds of fun to our home.

We love you dude-ee!

Grantham's Visit!

2010-07-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

We love it so much when we get visitors and it means so much to us that they travel 12 hours to come all the way to Idaho from Las Vegas, by car....not plane!

They brought the heat with them so the kids cooled down with ice cream!

We visited the Roaring Springs water park and had a blast. Grandma Kay was so great! She went down all the tube rides (her very first time EVER) and loved it! Thanks for being such a great sport :) Amy, who is 5 months pregnant, was also such a trooper and was up for anything!

I love this picture of Dave and the kids. It makes me smile :)

We went down town to feed the ducks. It was such a hot day and the kids were getting a little cranky, or was it the grown-up's???

Macie feeding the ducks

Dalan and his pile of sticks for his "camping fire" (I am a little concerned that this little guy is ObSeSSeD with fire. For reals.)

Dave krinkling his nose like Khloe does. It is so funny she blows in and out and does this cute thing with her nose and it makes us giggle! (Dave looks pretty cute doing it too!)

This is what she looks like!

Felicia and Khloe!

All the cute cousins!

This is the funnest candy store and everytime the Grantham's come out...we visit the SWEET SHOPPE and it sure put a smile on everyone's faces!

We did more swimming at our neighborhood pool. The kids were pulling out all the tricks to show off for Grandma Kay!

I know it looks like Dalan is about to hit his head on the side of the pool. This boy is CRAZY in water! There were a whole bunch of teenagers in the pool cheering him on and rating his dives, flips, cannon balls, twisty turns in mid air...and really making him feel extra big. Oh boy!

Macie is such a little poser...she wanted to be in on the trick action, and was happy with a simple innocent jump in the water. Nothing too crazy for this one!

Miss Khloe showing us she can clap her hands!!

Doing our best to just sit and look pretty at the pool!!

We think Grandma Kay is fantastic! She is such a loving grandma and is amazing with my kids. I guess raising 7 kids of her own taught her a world of patience, endurance, and now she can truly enjoy each moment with her grandchildren.

She plays games with them. Goes outside in the hot heat to push them on the swings. She colored with Macie at her every request. She let Dalan show her all his tricks, and apparently he reminds her of Dave as a kid. She Loved and played with Khloe. She is soooo fabulous and we only wish she wasn't so far away...

The kids loved being able to have COUSINS TIME with Maddy and Felicia! They played so great together and it was so fun to watch them play and be silly!

We had such a great time. NOW, if only we could get them all to move here!!

Sweetness!

2010-07-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

Look at this sweet face! What to do with your hair.....

We have been spending a lot of time in the sun, at the pool and miss Khloe is such a good sport. She loves the water!

I can't get enough of this little girl. She is so sweet, so content, and happy to just be! We LOVE our baby Khloe!

Baseball Hitter

2010-07-09T11:15:00.001-07:00

I had to pick up one of Macie's little friends at a baseball game and Dalan was very intrigued. He requested that I let him play with a "baseball hitter" when we get home, most often referred to as: a bat.

Shoot. This makes me feel bad. Dave has never really introduced sports to the boy. (This is totally the dad department!) I do however, have to give Dave credit for this. Now, this is more Dalan's style:

If you need an allen wrench, Dal is the guy. He can use a screwdriver like no other 3 year old can! (He has even taken off my cabinet door, one screw at a time all by himself!) Impressive right.

He was serious about a baseball hitter.

He was quietly "playing" upstairs in his room. He came down with this:

Strategic little boy. He took all his clothes off the hanging "stick" in his closet and he had himself a baseball hitter he could call his own. Now for a ball.

Ding, ding, ding!! Khloe has a toy that has little plastic balls that spin around...he knew just where to go. Ok. Ready. Set. PLAY BALL!

That very day, I went to the Dollar Store (What, I had to see if it was for him first!) Dave finally took him in the backyard and they played some baseball and he didn't stop smiling!!!

That is one handsome little baseball boy with a real bat! (although it is plastic, hopefully it doesn't turn into a weapon...)

"Camping!" M & D style...

2010-07-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

Meet Miss Macie. She has one great BIG imagination.
Dalan is always along for the ride and loves to play with his big sister. They decided they were going camping.

The campfire.

The picnic.

Now thats my kind of camping!!!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July is one of my most favorite holidays. I love to dress the kids in red, white, and blue! I love the parade. The fireworks. The food. The BBQ's. The holiday and what it means. Freedom. Liberty. Honor. Service. I love everything about this special day.

We loaded up the kids and headed to the parade downtown.
(The kids think that is a castle in the background, otherwise known as the state capitol building!)

The Johnson's and the Grantham's at the Parade!

Miss Khloe!

Macie and her cute friend Aubrie!

My boy!

Macie, "Strike a pose!" Dalan you cute little cheeseball!

The kids on Sunday (The actual 4th of July!)

Happy 4th of July and all that this holiday represents!

ps. My 3 year old is now even more obsessed with fire.
This no bueno.

OUCH!

2010-07-03T21:12:00.000-07:00

Dalan is a pro at his bike these days. He does a running jump to get on the bike and skids from the sidewalk into the street. Most of the time I am super impressed with his crazy skills.

Today...not so lucky!

He said this, "Mom next time I will wear my helmet so I don't fall on my head and hit my eyeball and tongue." Ok Dalan. Safety first. Gotta protect the eyeballs!!

Where my Fathers at....

2010-06-20T20:37:00.001-07:00

This is how it all began today. A BIG and delicious cinnamon roll.
Um Ummmm...good!

We love our daddy! So glad there is a special holiday to prove just that.

Today after church, the kids gathered all the things they wanted to present to Dave. Macie drew 100 pictures and gave him A cinnamon bear that she got from a parade. They are his favorite and she can easily part ways with that particular candy.

Dalan filled his bag with a robot toy and 93 matchbox cars.
He ate the candy for dad.

*** WE LOVE YOU! ***

Dad & Macie, 5 1/2

Dad & Dalan, almost 4

Dad & Khloe, 9 1/2 months

Meet Dave's dad Jay. He is so fantastic! I really respect this man. He helped in making my husband the man he is today. Jay is one hard worker. He is tender hearted. He is so sweet to Mama Kay. He washes dishes. All of them. He works hard manual labor 12 hours a day 6 days a week. He is such a great grandpa and my kids love him dearly.

We don't get to see grandpa often, and this is what happens when he leaves...

*** A shout out this Fathers Day that needs to be mentioned to my own father who passed away 5 1/2 years ago, when Macie was just 12 days old. How I miss him sooooo so so much. I think of him often. I miss him every second. He was a great man. Life can sometimes be cruel. He for sure would appreciate the dinner I made tonight. I have SO come a long ways from when I first married Dave. I truly had no business being in the kitchen over a hot stove. My dad loved cooking. My dad was amazing. He was smart. Kind. Honest. Loving. Caring. Giving. Funny. Oh the jokes he would tell. Everything was humorous to him and I loved him for it. It is painful to think of him sometimes. He should still be here to see me be a mom and to watch my beautful kids grow up. I miss you dad. More than you will ever know. ***

Happy Fathers Day!

2010-06-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

The kids earned it.

Their prize.

Donuts duh!
(This really was one reason why we moved to Boise afterall!)

Macie earned a Krispy Kreme ball of grease by doing her chores when asked all week, making her bed, and getting dressed. (Really, a reward!!??)

Dalan had a dry pull up, which is the real reason we came!

The kiddos were so rowdy after eating their donuts. All that sugar kicked them into high gear super quick...

Mom & the kids

Ashlee and her kiddos

Hannah Camp

2010-06-16T15:19:00.000-07:00

This cute girl with Macie & Dalan started "Hannah Camp!" this summer. She has the kids come to HER house. She feeds them snacks (VERY important for the Grantham kids) and lunch, they watched a movie with popcorn, they played water games (slip n' slide and water balloons) and they played freeze tag. It was 4 hours and the kids had such a great time! Thanks miss Hannah. We think you are pretty fantastic:) Can't wait for the next session.

*** Khloe and I did a little shop shopping. She truly is the best little thing. She was happy as can be just hangin' out with mom! I love that little babe! Bought me some new shoes to gear me up for some running. I am out of breath just thinking about it!! ***

Muddy Summer Days

2010-06-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

My kids came home today and they were all wet and muddy. I couldn't figure out where they had been....until they said, "Mom, come see the puddle!" This is what the puddle was all about and I couldn't resist snapping a few pictures and letting the kids get dirty and wet!!

The best part was Dalan wanted to wear his Spiderman SNOW boots, which by the way happen to light up. I know. I purchased them and it was the best $18 ever spent!

Macie getting ready for a big twirl!

I love this picture because it is one of those "in the moment" pictures. Dalan just kept riding his scooter through the puddle trying to make a big splash with his snow boots...and Macie was pretending to be a ballerina dancer striking all kinds of poses!

*** I love Summer days. I love no schedule. I love being able to let the kids play and just be kids. It is hard work. There are no breaks. BUT, the sun is shining. Kids are playing. Life is great! ***

1st day of swim lessons

2010-06-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

Khloe just hangin' out in the sunshine!

Macie doing her kicks with a grin on her face!

Dalan is one crazy fish in the water. He grins from ear to ear the entire time!

Sucker time!

Great job you two!! This is going to be one great summer, now that it is finally heating up around here:)

Thumb-Sucker no more!

2010-06-13T14:23:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting 1949 days.
That is 5 years, 4 months & 3 days

•168,393,600 seconds
•2,806,560 minutes
•46,776 hours
•278 weeks

to make this announcement.

In the beginning, it never really bothered me that miss Macie sucked her thumb. I sucked mine as a child. If anything, I was grateful because it was a good sign that she was either hungry, or tired. Then, she grew to love her pink blankie, which later turned brown...from taking it everywhere and washing it so much. When she was 3, I thought it was time to get rid of the embarassing once upon a time pink blanket, so I hid it. She never did find it, but instead, found a purple one as its replacement. CRAP!

So, then we just let her do her thing for 2 more years....

Just the other day a friend of mine came over. Brittany and Jared told her that her nose was getting "crooked" from sucking her thumb and so were her teeth and smile. Eeekkk...this scared her! I ran with it. I proceeded to show her a picture of their niece, who was a thumb sucker, and had a real jaggety smile. I also introduced her to: MR YUK STUFF! I knew she was really ready when she gave Khloe her purple blanket and said, "I don't need this anymore!"

Then, I told her that if she sucked her thumb it would make her so so so sick and it would make her throw up and her nose would continue to get more crooked. I also followed it with the fact that if she still sucked, we would have to take her to the dr and he would put a pokey thing in her mouth and anytime she tried to suck her thumb, it would poke her and make her bleed. I am so mean. I painted a real ugly scary story. BUT, it worked and she is no longer a thumb sucker!

I have always told her she couldn't go to the big school to be in kindergarten if she sucked her thumb. I didn't want her to get teased. However, how could I follow through on that one!!!! NOW, I don't have to make threats because she is cured!!!

Thats right, a thumb sucker - no more!!!

Who wore it best??

2010-06-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

Macie sweetie, you look like a hippy chicky!

Dalan is in for it with 2 sisters...this is just the beginning I am afraid. He doesn't even seem phased by the fact he has a PINK FLOWER on his head. Should I be concerned??

Khloe darling, you NEED these right now to wear on your head so STOP pulling them off!!

This is a close one...they can ALL sport the flower power so well!!

School's Out for Summer!

2010-06-09T12:41:00.000-07:00

My cute friend and neighbor hosted a "School's Out for Summer" party on the last day of school. We all headed over for some water fun. She had a slip n' slide, water sprinkler, water balloons, watermelon, and popsicles...The kids were in water heaven, and it was a beautiful day. What a fun tradition for the kids in the neighborhood. Thanks Krista for hosting :)

What do you get when you mix water and sand??????

Hmmmm....

SUMMER HERE WE COME!

Summer...finally!

2010-06-08T11:45:00.000-07:00

Beautiful day.
Kids at play, outside.
Picnic in the front yard.
No mess or crumbs in my kitchen.
Great day.

2010-06-07T12:56:00.000-07:00

Allow miss Khloe who gives Kisses and Loves to introduce....

Macie the Missy who is sassy but oh so sweet Grantham

Dalan the Dare Devil with no fear in him Grantham!

The day had arrived. Both kids were ready to say good-bye to their training wheels forever!

Macie: age 5 & 4 months

Dalan: age 3 & 10 months

*** Macie was a little timid at first. However, she watched her THREE year old little brother complete the task with confidence and a smile on his face. She was determined. She just kept trying. She had a hard time getting the balance thing just right and thought Dave was trying to tip her over. She finally realized she needed to pedal faster, and off she went. Way to go girl! ***

*** Dalan needed no teaching. Dave started holding onto him, but Dalan pedaled like his life depended on it so Dave let go and he started riding his bike. He was a little wobbly the first couple of times, but he just kept moving his feet. CRASH, once or twice, but the boy just got right back on and kept going. This kid is one of a kind. He truly has no fear in him anywhere. Hmmm....sure made us proud! ***

And there you have it...

Mission Complete.

2010-06-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

GggggOooooo....Grizzlies! "Bear down...bear down..."

When I think of Cheerleading, I think of side ponytails!!!

Macie did a cheer camp through our local highschool with a couple of her little friends today. She really enjoyed performing and did such a great job. Way to go Mace!

Macie's biggest fan

Nice one. Came out to the car after the show to find a dead battery that needed replacing. So, we got to hang out in the parking lot longer than expected! Bummer.

Rock On!

2010-06-04T07:29:00.000-07:00

This guy....he is pretty rad.

He recently bought this guitar, signed up for lessons, and has been practicing "Amazing Grace" and The Eagles "Hotel California" ever since. I really love that about Dave. He has MANY hobbies. He loves to try new things and he goes after what he wants. I really respect him for it. He doesn't ever let fear of the unknown get in his way. Keep Rockin hon!!

What a great dad!

Dave brought Macie flowers at her music recital!

Dave has a shadow. His name is Dalan. Dal pretty much worships the ground his daddy walks on. They are true pals!

This little Klickety-Klack Khloe (She clicks her tongue non-stop these days!) loves her dad. She gets so excited and giggly when he comes home. She has him wrapped right around her little finger!

I love that he is a super hard worker!

He cooks on special occasions! For Valentines day he made us all pink pancakes!

Our Christmas Eve tradition is pizza and Dave pulls out his Italian side and likes to throw the dough up in the air! Nice honey:)

AND...to save the best for last. Dave decided to try and grow a mustache...just to see. Well. He does pull it off nicely, but really...it had to go!

*** How great is it to have a companion. I love my hubby. Love all that he does for me and for our family. I am lucky to have this guy in my life. ***

2010-06-03T11:37:00.000-07:00

Macie just finished up her second year of preschool. She has been gone to the same teacher the last two years, Ms. Janis, and loves her so so much. It is so neat to see how much she has learned over the last two years. She is working on reading and is excited for kindergarten next year. I cannot believe my little girl is 5!

Macie's first day of preschool, age 4

Macie with her teacher Ms. Janis

This is our preschool carpool. How great to only have to drive once a month!!

(Jace Swallow, Reece Sasser-Gunson, Carson Hamilton, Emily Johnson, Macie Grantham)

Macie's last day of preschool, age 5

*** This sweet little Macie brings so much personality to our home. She is miss attitude and recently rolled her eyes at me because apparently, she was annoyed! Macie is my social queen. She loves to hang with her friends.

Macie & Aubrie

Macie, Scarlett, and Dalan

We are so lucky to live in such a great neighborhood surrounded by lots of kiddos. Macie is a good friend and has a great imagination!

Now that school is out, we would gladly welcome some sunshine to our summer. Please sun, shine!! ***

2010-06-02T06:52:00.000-07:00

While you were sleeping....

Look who was WIDE awake!

*** Love these 3 sweet babes of mine! I am working on my attitude this week. I am trying to be positive in all things and to radiate that energy to my family. I want my kids and my husband to know how much I love and appreciate them. I don't ever want any of them to feel like a burden, a chore, or let my attitude and sometimes grumpiness effect their day. It's not fair to them. Love you my peeps!! Thanks for always giving me reason to smile :) ***

2010-06-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

LOOK....who graduated from 3 year old preschool!!

Dalan and his preschool friends singing songs!

Ms. Jenn and Dal

Family picture minus Macie, who was at a birthday party!!

*** I was on the fence about Dalan going to preschool because he had just barely turned 3, but he absolutely LOVED it! He had such a great time learning, and he loved making new friends. Ms. Jenn is so great with these kids. It is a small class size, only 6 kids total, which is so great. They went on several field trips. They had several partys. He never came home with random papers that you feel guilty throwing away because Ms. Jenn kept them all and tucked them away in their "special book!" It is so neat to flip through and see his progress throughout the year. Also, she included a dvd with a slideshow of pictures to music and it is such a keepsake! What a great year!!

A sneak peak of "Dalan's Special Book!"

A day off at work

2010-05-29T19:44:00.000-07:00

"Work hard, then play hard!" Isn't that saying so true. We had a day of work today! Dave took care of the yard, I took care of the inside! It is such a bummer that the only day off of work Dave gets, he still works!! I love ya for it babe:)

Then, after all the work was done, we went to our favorite place, "Fuddruckers!" for lunch. Then we headed back home cause it was my turn to work. I swap weekend babysitting with a couple of my friends and it was our night to watch kids. We played outside, then took the party upstairs to eat popcorn and watch a movie! All these kids are so well behaved and play really good. It works out so great because 2 weekends a month, Dave and I get to have date night without having to pay for a sitter! So worth it!!

*** I love weekends. Love that it is family time. Play time. Work time. Get stuff done time. Lazy time. Movie time. Free day time. Chill out time. Make treats time. Isn't life great! ***

Boys are gross!

2010-05-28T09:17:00.001-07:00

I looked out the window and what did I see?
3 little bums shining right at me.
I guess at the innocent age of 5, 4, & 3
It's ok for them to all go pee -
at the same time
thinking it is so funny
and i have to admit. it was!
ps. it is a whoppin' 47 degrees outside and these boys are outside like it is a hot summer day in May!

Change

2010-05-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

Dalan has been in a little preschool this year 2 days a week. He has loved going and has learned so much. I have loved him going and have learned that I do miss him when he is away, but it was always a nice little break!

Dalan and Ms. Jenn

Dalan's first day of preschool

Macie's first day of her second year of preschool. Dalan's second day of his first year of preschool. Say that 5 x.

Look how he has changed in just a short 9 months. This little character still gives us a run, but we will keep chasing cuz he is one cute kid!

CHANGE for Macie!
She has really long locks. Check it out!

Today it was time for a hair cut...

(the after picture coming soon!)

Nothing to change about this little thing, except maybe your shirt since I fed you sweet potatoes for dinner!!

*** As hard as change can sometimes be, I am grateful for a little change in my life. Change can make a person grow. Change can build a new foundation, new relationships, and sometimes bring new trials. Change is sometimes there to wake us up out our "normal." I am grateful for change and the opportunity to learn. It is hard to establish a "new" anything. For me, I have a strong desire to change me. To make myself better. To learn and stretch myself, and reach far out of my comfort zone. I am working at it day by day, all day, and hopefully good things will come. ***

Khloe Lin

2010-05-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Look who is 9 months today!!!

It seems like just yesterday you were so tiny and brand new.

And with each day that you continue to grow...my heart grows bigger too!

SISTERS!!!! Really, I promise!

Things I want to remember:

- You are the most mellow, content, sweetest litttle thing on the planet
- You love cheerios
- You love to shake and bop your head
- Macie can make you giggle like noone else
- You love your tongue. You are always sticking it out and making the cutest clicking sounds
- You can sit up and roll over, and are starting to get very wiggly
- You love green beans. You will eat anything really: apples, pears, bananas, sweet potatos, garden vegetables, anything will do!

- You have 2 teeth on bottom, and 1 on top with another one on its way in
- Love your precious smile
- Your sweet, innocent, face lights up my world!

Weight: 17 lbs

Chores

2010-05-25T07:04:00.000-07:00

I love a good chore day. Really, it is out of necessity that we have these. I try to get the kids on board to help out. Their latest chore that they are actually pretty happy to help with is unloading the dishwasher. Thanks guys for taking the load off!! It really helps...

Now, if only I could have that kind of enthusiasm when scrubbing toilets and mopping my floors!

2010-05-24T19:27:00.000-07:00

For Family Home Evening tonight, we played "Mellow" out Goliath! We told the story of David and Goliath and then had a marshmallow throwing contest, which turned into a marshmallow fight!

Dalan was more interested in eating the marshmallows then throwing them. Dave made a good point and said, "This is the only time it will be ok for you to throw food." He still just wanted to eat them! This is the boy who asks for snack every 5 minutes!

The kids loved this lesson. It was fun to talk about the 'little guy' and to teach them that in life "Goliaths" come in many different shapes and sizes. What a great example of courage David was through faith in our Heavenly Father. It is such a great story that David was victorious, even though he was the little one!

I hope my "littles" will be strong and courageous and will stand up to fight for what is right. I can only hope that as a mother, they will be a good example and that their courage will teach them valuable lessons.

Perspective

2010-05-22T09:12:00.000-07:00

This is embarassing, but important. I challenged myself to a personal goal this week. I needed to schedule in my day atleast 30 minutes to PLAY with my kids, do some kind of activity. I am guilty of too often brushing them off so I can fold clothes, or clean the kitchen. It makes me sad and I know I will regret it one day. What a great week it was!!

One game we played is "Don't eat Pete!"

We made volcanos!

and watched them erupt with HOT lava...

We painted!

Snacked on fruit kabobs with marshmallows

We ventured out and enjoyed a bike ride to our neighborhood park.

The kids were exhausted by the end!!

Khloe played some games too!

Check out that bicep Dave!!

The kids really responded well, of course, and it even created a new part of our bedtime routine we call "Talk Time!" Each kid sits on the special pillow and they are given a few minutes where we all listen to their favorite part of the day. A normal family could do this during dinner, but since we haven't quite figured out how to all eat at the same time every night, this works for us. It has been great to watch them as they know it is their turn to talk. Who knew they had so much to say!!!!

*** Perspective is defined as a mental view or outlook. Thats right. Being a mom sometimes might make us a little "mental" but the outlook is simple. This goal to actually spend time with the kids gave me a focus, and allowed me to prioritize my time and still accomplish the day to day tasks. I am appreciating the little things a lot more and am so grateful that I was able to take a step back, reevaluate, and absorb my purpose as a mom. ***

I love this quote in the conference Ensign called "Mothers and Daughters"
Elder M. Russell Ballard says this, "Love your mother. Respect her. Listen to her. Trust her. She has your best interests at heart. She cares about your eternal safety and happiness. So be kind to her. Be patient with her imperfections, for she has them. We all do."

Isn't that the best. I love it! It makes me feel like I am normal. I love being a mom. I am so blessed that I am able to be home with my kids every day, to raise them, and to teach them. I know I am so lucky to have 3 healthy, beautiful children that give me a reason put life into perspective.

"In these last days it is essential--even critical--that parents and children listen to and learn from one another" ***

Gum???

2010-05-21T13:37:00.000-07:00

Thank you Skippy peanut butter for getting the wod of gum out of my daughter's hair. I guess all the oil in your product is good for more than just a yummy pb&j.

Yum....Yum...

*** My kids both LOVE to chew gum. I chew gum all the time so I always have a variety to choose from. They know exactly which pocket to get it out of in all my purses & diaper bag. They often climb the pantry shelves to reach the bulk box of Trident Minty Sweet Twist. When I asked Macie how she got gum in her hair she said, "it just hopped in my hair mom!" Hmmmm....I ought to reconsider giving gum freely to a 3 & 5 year old. This isn't the first time we have done the peanut butter trick. To gum, or to cut the long locks....that is the ? ***

The 3rd Child

2010-05-20T07:59:00.000-07:00

There once was a girl named Khloe Lin. She was born on August 26, 2009. She came into this world 9 MONTHS ago and I can't believe how quickly she is growing.

I have a lot of catching up to do with Khloe! I have always heard that the last child is the one that suffers and doesn't get what the first and second child got. I have to agree. She doesn't have a scrapbook. She rarely gets new clothes thanks to her big sister Macie and my bestie Christina for hooking me up with lots of little girl clothes. I am not sure why she gets the shaft in so many ways, because truly, she is the very best baby. She will probably give me a run during her toddler years, but right now, she is a dream!

I take SO many pictures, but fail to display them and share her fun personality. This is for you baby girl!

Isn't she sweet?? Oh my goodness. Look at that face!

She is the most content little baby. She sits in her bumbo and watches me work! I wish I had the time to sit and hold her all day long, but lets just face it. Laundry, cleaning, chasing the other 2 kids, fixing snacks, lunches, dinners, etc. I CANT. It kills me, but she just sits up high, watching, and smiling!

Let's see here...hmmmm....what to do, what to do.

Dalan and Macie had an idea. I wonder who thought of this first? Let's build a super cool fort. On TOP of Khloe! AAAGGGGHHHH....and this is exactly WHY she sits up high. Away from the others!!

HELP ME...HELP ME!

"You think you can just walk all over me you two?? You wait. I am silent now, but soon I will be able to hold my own!"

All dressed up for Sunday best. Khloe was sooo tired and ready for her nap. But I had to get one picture. This is the best I could do. Aaaagghhh to be able to scream and just get your way:)

Where's Grandma Mags when you need her? She will always give me what I want!!

I LOVE all these big, fun flowers for Khloe. Although, I am pretty sure the headband days are over. The minute it is put on her head, she tugs it right off.

So instead, we have opted for the water spout of a pony tail. Gotta love that smile!

Check out her first curler!

You wanna know what is "bananas?" You Khloe! Thanks for reminding me you are sitting up high, still watching, although now you are reaching and grabbing, and contributing to the daily messes!

This is my favorite stage. The now. This moment. You today at 9 months.I love that she can sit up and I can give her a toy and she is a happy girl!

Macie is a great big sister. She loves to play with Khloe and she can always make Khloe giggle. It is really sweet to see the two of them interact. I hope their 5 year gap doesn't keep them from being the best of friends.

*** I love these 3 kiddos more than anything. They give me reason to be. I can complain all day long about messes and crumbs and fingerprints on my counters, but I am so lucky to have these littles to love and learn from. Thank you for being the best and making me so proud ***

Boys Drool!

2010-05-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

My two favorite boys!

Meet Dalan. He is always being silly!

Yet. He is such a stud muffin!

I am so grateful that Dave is willing to teach Dalan and have the patience with him, which I tend to lack often, and show him what being a boy is all about. Grease, dirt, bugs, and tools. I am not sure if I should blame Dave for Dalan's passion about the garage and NOT being able to keep him out of it. He loves so much his daddy's tools. He has his own "plastic" version, but today when he got them taken away for being naughty...his reply was, "I dont care mom. I want real ones." I was speechless. Crap.

He loves the following: Legos, his scooter, his shark bike, tools, the garage, grease, anything Mr. Yuk (dangerous and poisonous.) He is also my biggest snacker on the planet. He likes to climb the pantry shelves looking for treasures called sugar. He has found just about every hiding place I make! He is sneaky...

Dalan was spotlighted for preschool and for his share, he built this "shooter gun."

Doing what he loves best. Workin!

He is always right there with Dave - working on the Jeep

He does work wonders with my kitchen sink and is great at cleaning those dishes. He was so proud when he was given his very own bottle of dish soap. I know, I rock!

He is full of energy, yet somehow when bedtime arrives...he can still stay up until 10:00! I don't get it. When he finally does crash and burn, he usually ends up on the floor. He doesn't like sleeping in his own room, so right here in Macie's doorway is where he landed last night!

This little dude of mine is one that keeps me on the go ALL day long. I love that little face and as exhausting as he is....his smile is so worth it. I love ya buddy! Thanks for always giving dad and I a reason to laugh at night, even though, in the moment sometimes you aren't so funny.

Like in this moment

When magically the water turned "yellow???" Oh wait, that is just your pee!

*** Dalan is full of such adventure and personality and I would be lost without him. I am so thankful that he is part of our family. He loves his big sister Macie, but he is smitten with baby Khloe. He sometimes forgets his own strength and would love to have Khloe roll around with him and, ya know, punch back. Maybe one day Dal. I am sure she will hunt you down when she is bigger!! I love you buddy and you enrich my life and keep me on my toes and I love ya for it!! ***

*** We had "Mother's Tea" at Dalan's preschool today and it was a lot of fun. Good food, good company, and the cutest kiddos around!

The kids sang us a song with hand actions...

Then Dal gave me the sweetest gift, a homemade "Me and You Book!" Thanks Dal for thinking of mom and for making me so proud!

You said your favorite things are: Airplanes, Fruit Gushers, and Working! You said you love mom to "play games" with you and you love when I take you to the "froggy pond!" pssspp....what is the froggy pond!!?? Love ya bubs:)

Girl Time

2010-05-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

It is always a necessity to have some much needed....GIRL TIME!

That is just what we did. Since the boys went camping for Fathers & Sons, us girls had a night out on the town. We had the best time! We first went and ate at the funnest restaurant "Flatbread Pizza Oven." They bring the kids out a mini pizza dough, and they can add the sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Delicious food started the night!

Then, we went to the school carnival for some games followed by the best yogurt at a place called Spoon Me. The milk chocolate yogurt is so so good and they have yummy fresh fruit to top it with! Every girl loves ice cream!!

The next day, Macie and I needed some more "girl time" so we headed to the spa to have ourselves a pedicure!

This was Macie's first time and she was so cute and sweet. She LOVED to be able to pick her color, and out of all the pinks and purples....

She went with Firecracker Red!

We soaked our feet, added some fun color to our toes, giggled, talked girl stuff, and the day was perfect! Thanks Macie for a fun time.

*** I am so grateful and so blessed to have my little girls! There is a special bond between mother and daughter and I am so grateful to have 2. ***

Me and my 2 daughters!

Macie, is a social queen and loves to be with her friends.

However, she is a total mama's girl too and enjoys to spend time with me. Macie loves to color, play dress up, barbies, "house" and she is a fantastic big sister. I love this spunky sassy little thing to pieces!

Macie Moo - I love you!

Khloe is such a sweet baby. How did I get so lucky? I haven't yet felt the effects of having 3 kids (okay, there are definitely 'moments') but overall, she is just so easy going, super content, and just fills our home with so much joy! I love this little tot and know she couldn't have been a more perfect fit.

Khlo worm - You make me smile!

My mom and her 2 daughters!

My mom (who is the blonde that looks like she is still in her 30's) is an amazing woman. She amazes me with her strength and example. This lady is one that serves and loves unconditionally. She gives of her time to serve the Lord in the temple twice a week. I tell her she is a show off, but truly she is such an example of being a dedicated and loyal daughter of God. She is also such a GIVER. Truly, if she had her last piece of candy in the cupboard, and it is even seasonal, she would totally give it to you. She radiates love to all. I love you so much mom.

My big sister Amber. I always wanted to be her. I wanted to wear her clothes, hang with her friends, listen to her conversations on "party line!" She is the ultimate cool girl. To this day, she is spacey, goofy, irrational, paranoid, and FUN. All these things make her great and I love ya sis!! You are a great mama and I can't believe you are on round 4!!

*** I feel so blessed to have such great women in my life. I am surrounded by wonderful friends and have a great support system in place. If I can't live close to family, I have been so fortunate to make great friends who have become like family. Women are truly amazing. I was reading an article today that has been on my mind. It was talking about how a good woman knows there is not enough time, energy, or the opportunity to take care of everything on our everyday to-do list. "Life is not calm for most women and although we have a hundred million things to do, the most important thing is to prioritize correctly and navigate this life confidently."

I truly believe that. I think that with each day comes new tasks, some repetetive, mundane, and sometimes just plain lame...but one thing I know is the importance of motherhood and instilling confidence in all of my littles. I try to do my share to teach them to make good choices, and also leave small impressions within them that will one day make them great. I know this is my calling right now and I am so blessed to be a mother!