Cannons

A Christmas Carol...(a little catch up too)

2012-01-13T14:39:00.000-08:00

In November our stake put on quite the fun production of A Christmas Carol. My three older kids participated and loved every minute of it. It was very time consuming, but turned out to be well worth it. The kids met a lot of people in our stake and also got to work together on this production. The director is the same lady who does the middle school musical and happens to be a really good friend of our family.

My dad was very generous and made each of my kids a costume. Britt really wanted a fun scarlet O'hara dress for the Fezziwig ball scene and Ally was thrilled to have a beautiful dress. Jay loves dressing up and Pa Bob made him a black vest (which Jay still wears)

Ally had her fancy dress from Pa Bob so she wanted a new hat too...I luckily have a craft store in my garage (because I am a craft stuff collector) so I put together this fancy hat for Ally and also made her a new black cloak. She was in heaven and felt like a princess!

This is Jay with Ally backstage!

Ally teaching all the kids in the kids room how to play categories! It was a hit!

This is one of the many things we have been up to lately. I usually don't try and play catch up with my blog, but we've had some fun things happen so I'm going to try and catch up. I am trying to be better and documenting things rather than just posting pictures on FB. I hope to make a book of my blog so if there are any still out there reading my sad little blog, you'll have to bear with me as I catch up on my posts.

My biggest issue is trying to locate all my pictures...we have a couple different computers and for whatever reason my pictures aren't all together!!! I'm hoping to get them all on my laptop so I can be portable!

The play was fun and busy and I can't wait for the next stake play!!!

I have so many things to blog about...

2011-12-14T13:32:00.000-08:00

I am setting a pre New Year's resolution for myself to be better about blogging. I'm not sure how to define better for myself...once a week, once a month, once a quarter? President Hinckley said "Be better tomorrow than you were today!" I guess that's a good place to start, I'll just be better!!!
I will say I love my little Maxwell. He has brought so much joy into our home (that I felt was already a pretty joyous place) I love seeing my older kids ooh and aah over him. It's the sweetest thing in the world! I feel like I'm really soaking in every little sweet moment more than I did with my other kids. I just enjoy the little sounds and wonder in his face (not that I didn't with the others too) I just really soak it all in!!! He's so fun! Whenever I pull out my camera Wayne often says "just take a mental picture" I have really done that and i feel like I don't have enough pictures now. The only picture I have from Halloween is on my phone...whhaatt?!?! How is that possible? I have a little turtle that my sister in law gave me to measure Max's growth month by month...I've taken the pictures, actually let me re-phrase, Britt has taken the pictures on her phone...whaaat?!?!
I think sitting here I've set my goal...I'll be better about taking pictures of Max.
I have been very contemplative lately, I look at and hold Max pretty much all day while thinking of Brittany. He looks a lot like Britt did and I just sit and enjoy him. Britt only has half of her junior year left and then obviously she'll be a senior. As I sit and stare at Max I truly see my little Britt and then come back to reality that she'll go to college in a year and a half...whaatt?!?! It's crazy! I do also think of Jay and Ally. I have to remind myself that Ally is only 10. I served with the youth so much and having Britt and Jay as teenagers I feel Ally got lumped in with the big kids and she's still little! I have enjoyed shopping for her this Christmas season with the thought that she's little in mind. When my thoughts wander about Jay, I marvel at what a sharp young priesthood holder he is and how much he loves this little Maxwell. Jay is soooo cute and loving with Max...truly it's my favorite thing to watch! How do I capture that on film?
Anyway, those are my thoughts today...I do have some fun pictures to post if I'd ever put Max down to load them to the computer!!! When I say that out loud (via typing) I think it just sounds so not important! Max is actually sleeping right now so maybe if I were quick I could get in a shower and upload some pictures...mark set go!

Youth Conference

2011-11-15T10:33:00.000-08:00

Welcome to BOOT camp..."Build On Our Testimonies"
Sister Chandler and her cute daughter Kennedy made this sign welcoming the campers!

All the campers lined up ready to do jumping jacks and whatever else drill master Wayne Cannon has in store for them!!!

My cute family. Part of our BOOT camp was doing a service project in the community called Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN). WE had over 300 community members helping the elderly with yard work and other needed tasks.

Jay with Brooke and Rochelle trimming back overgrown bushes for a 92 year old lady in West Linn

Taking a donut break...

Our incredible team helping EVE with her yard. Most of the brethren got a lot of bee stings taking out some of the blackberry bushes, but were troopers and kept on working.

After everyone returned from NHN the YW's presidency had a great lunch waiting for us back at BOOT camp. The kids played a great game of keep away before the actual BOOT camp activities started.

Britt on the monkey bridge. Each youth climbed the rope wall and then had to walk across this monkey bridge. It was challenging and scary for some.

My cute Brittany taking time to warm up by holding Max. Max was only a month old and was such a good sport while Wayne and I were the leaders of this youth conference. Ally was there to watch and play with Max and also LOVED being able to come to BOOT camp!

Wayne and I had a great time doing this conference with the youth. We asked the Priests to plan and extreme obstacle course and they did their task well. The rope wall and monkey bridge really had to our overall conference message of overcoming struggles. We also had a extreme trust fall, tire course and LOTS of jumping jacks and even some push-ups!!! I love serving the youth. Their energy is so contagious and I love it! This past Sunday Wayne took a call from one of our high councilmen in the stake and we were asked to be a MA and PA on the upcoming trek for our stake. I AM SO EXCITED!!! I've been on a few treks and have never been a Ma. Both Britt and Jay will also be going so it will be fun to go through this experience with them. Britt did a trek in Pleasanton a few years ago and is eager to do it again!
YAY FOR YOUTH!!!

Maxwell James Cannon

2011-10-20T14:16:00.000-07:00

On October 9, 2011 we blessed our little miracle. Of course as everyone knows we named him MAXWELL JAMES CANNON. During the blessing Wayne kept referring to him as JAMES, which is funny because we've been calling him MAX...it was kind of a sweet moment for me and I thought about the name JAMES. We really struggled naming Maxwell, we knew we wanted a family name but couldn't decide on which family name to use. Jay's name is full of family. JAY is Wayne's dads name and SORENSEN is my maiden name...you don't get more family than that!!! Wayne loved the name MAX and it's hard to come up with a family name that goes with that. JAMES sounds good with everything! My only reservation in using JAMES was that there were already so many JAMES'. Anyway as I sat in the congregation (tears in my eyes) I listened to Wayne repeatedly call Max JAMES, and I thought of all the JAMES' in our family. (on both sides) My maternal grandfather is CLAYTON JAMES KEARL, I have a brother JAMES TYLER whose youngest son is NATHAN JAMES, a brother in-law STEPHEN JAMES whose oldest son is MITCHELL JAMES and my oldest brother Andy has a son BENJAMIN JAMES. When Wayne said James over and over in the blessing I was so touched by each of the James' in his life. Stephen, Mitchell, Tyler and Nathan were all present at the blessing. My nephew Benjamin has always had a special place in my heart...as I mentioned he belongs to Andy and Andy and I have always had kids close to the same time. Bethany and Britt are one month apart. Nick and Jay are 7 months apart. Bella and Ally are 8 months apart. Whenever we would get together with their family Ben never had a buddy and it was always a reminder to me of the miscarriage I had. Ben was cheated of a buddy!!! I seriously thought of it EVERY TIME!!! Andy and Mel recently adopted a little boy so we've held our tradition of having kids together, this time Mel skipped out on the delivery but her process of getting Josh wasn't easy!!! Okay, I've rambled on enough, but needless to say JAMES is a special name and we love it!!! We do still call him MAX, but we love his given name of MAXWELL JAMES CANNON!!!

Below is a picture of MAX with my dad, who made Max's blessing outfit! My mom was on a quest to find the perfect outfit and said nothing in the stores was special enough for him and half heartily suggested my dad make one and he agreed! It was of course amazing and so perfect for our MAX!!! In the picture below is NATHAN JAMES, JAMES TYLER AND MAXWELL JAMES

In this picture below is STEPHEN JAMES, MAXWELL JAMES and MITCHELL JAMES

Great Grandpa CLAYTON JAMES and MAXWELL JAMES on a recent visit to Utah! So happy we got to spend some time with the greats! Grandpa turned 90 in June and is still going strong!!!

Finally, below is my special BENJAMIN JAMES and MAXWELL JAMES. Ben was in Utah the same time we were so we lucked out!!!

Max's blessing day was great! I will next do a post about the whole weekend. Tyler and his family came down from Spokane and baptized their son Ryan in our stake. It was so nice of them to combine the weekend so that lots of family could participate in both and only have to travel once!!! STAY TUNED...

My life now...

2011-10-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

I love having a life again! My kids hate that I'm constantly wanting to go somewhere to take pictures, but Max changes so quickly!!! I also want to fill my house with new family photos. I had 3 kids for so long and I'm still getting used to the fact that I now have 4!!! I feel like I'm babysitting Max, it's been so fun.
We've been busy now that the kids are back in school, but it's nice to be on a schedule (sort of) and to be an active part of that schedule! I love being the chauffeur, house cleaner, meal maker mom again! I LOVE IT!!!
Wayne and I were asked to be in charge of our Ward Youth Conference and we had a blast doing that with the youth! (I'll do a separate post about that experience) I also have a new calling. I'm now the Activity Days Leader. I think that's going to quickly become my favorite calling EVER!!! I'm very excited!

These are some pictures taken at Stake Play practice...Max is adored by all the youth! He's the center of attention wherever he goes!

Family Pictures

2011-09-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes pictures simply speak for themselves. Enjoy some of my favorites from our day at the park...

Please notice his faux hawk...seriously how cute is he?!?!

Ally turns 10!

2011-08-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

Happy day to Ally! I was concerned that Ally's day would get lost or that she'd feel neglected on her special day because everything would be about the new baby! (I wasn't even sure I'd be home from the hospital yet) Luckily everything worked out great and she didn't get forgotten! Melanie and kids were in town along with Gramma Susie, Pa Bob and Aunt Anne. Everyone was here on the day before and we had a big dinner party with yummy cupcakes that Aunt Anne made! My parents were still here on her day and Aunt Vikki came over with her boys and we had another mini party. Our tradition on the 10th birthday is to go bowling...this year we had a Wii bowling party and will all go real bowling later! She loved every minute of her birthday bashes! I CAN'T BELIEVE SHE'S 10!!!

Ally has been in gymnastics all and is loving it! I'm amazed at how fearless she is! She will be continuing throughout the year, because she loves it so much!!!

Maxwell James Cannon

2011-08-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

Finally getting to hold my Maxwell! Maxwell James Cannon was born at 9:49 August 3, 2011 weighing 6 lbs 7 oz. He is perfect!!!Meeting big sister Brittany
Meeting Ally (she has since perfected her holding of Max...the first time was awkward for her but now if you ask her she's a pro!)
Getting some lovin' from daddy!
Meeting Jay for the first time. Jay was at EFY when Max was born on a Wednesday and Jay came home on Saturday. As soon as he walked in the door I handed Max over.
Can I just say watching my big kids with Max is the most amazing thing ever! I love that this little bundle of Heaven has melted the hearts of everyone in our home. They have each told me individually that me being in bed was totally worth it to get Max! (they weren't sure of that going through the bed rest experience)

More pics to come...ya'll know I have a million of them!!!

Stage 1...

2011-08-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

We arrived at the hospital at 7 am. We were immediately taken into a room and they hooked me up to the fetal monitor. (I hate those things!) We loved our nurse Julie. She was great and made me feel comfortable, which wasn't an easy task because I was FREAKED OUT!!!

Below we are preparing to go into the operating room. This is our nurse Julie! I had to go into the OR by myself while Wayne had to wait in the recovery room...I didn't like that part AT ALL!
Below you can see me through the window of the OR...Wayne knew I wasn't happy to go in by myself so he stood and watched from the window. (I didn't know he was there, but still super sweet)
I had to go in by myself to get my spinal and my epidural prep. I've never had so many needles in me in my life! I had the regular pregnancy IV in one hand another IV in the other hand that was just preparatory in case I needed a blood transfusion which they thought would be likely and had two units standing by (made my nerves really calm) Luckily I didn't need them. I personally think all the poking of needles is the worse part of labor! I didn't like that Wayne wasn't in there but I lived and I was told they do it that way because during the spinal you have to be really still and when a loved one is in the room patients tend to look for them and it makes the process painful! As soon as I was numbed up they let Wayne in.
This is what I got to look at during my delivery...yes it sucked and yes I got claustrophobic! I'd love to say that this whole experience was beautiful and amazing, but I can't it sucked until I heard little Max crying and it made it all worth it. I threw up, I hated the air mask, I hated that I didn't get to push, but I LOVE that I got a baby! I didn't get to hold him for almost 2 hours after he was ripped out of me and that was really hard and I was a crying mess until they put him on my chest and wheeled me into the recovery room. I was in the recovery room for several hours and almost the entire time Max was on my chest and that was heaven! Our nurse Julie broke all rules and let Ally and Britt sneak into the recovery room one at a time. I think it scared them a little to see me looking like I did, but they were thrilled to see Max!

I still get emotional thinking of this whole experience but everything I went through has been to get Max and he is here and I love it!

My first AMNIO and hopefully my last...

2011-08-02T19:26:00.000-07:00

I had to go in for an amniocentesis today to check the maturity of our babies lungs. It was HORRIBLE...it was over quickly but I cried! I didn't really know how painful it would be or what to expect. It hurt a lot more than I thought but it was over faster than I thought. I think the roller coaster of emotions just hit me when the doctor pulled the needle out filled with amniotic fluid. They of course had to explain all the risks and I would've been so upset if something had gone wrong and I was so relieved that it was over! We had to wait all day for the results and that was nerve racking too! Finally at 4:30 we got word that our little guys lungs are strong and we will proceed with delivery tomorrow...hooray! I of course cried again! I'm so excited to move onto the next phase and hold my little man!

Still a little freaked by the C-section, but I made it through the amnio so I'm a little more calm!!!

Bed rest...

2011-07-30T23:09:00.000-07:00

I'm SOOOO pregnant...
I have been on bed rest for nearly 3 months now. It has been a very interesting experience. One I hope to never repeat!!! I have learned a lot...First, I have been reminded that personal intuition is real. I knew when I went to California with my parents that something was different about this pregnancy and how I was feeling, it was different. I tired real easily and it had nothing to do with my age. My mom I think also sensed something was up because she always encouraged me to rest and take it easy! Two days after I returned home from California my sentence was given!!! Second, I have really come to appreciate how much my husband loves me, he has done so much for me and really stepped up and NOT ONCE has he complained. On the same note, I've learned that kids really do what's expected of them without being asked. My kids have been amazing during this whole time and I've loved how doting and caring they have been. They've never resented or been negative about this whole experience. They each love feeling the baby move and have spent lots of time talking to and playing music to our new little addition! Third, I've learned how real my diagnosis is. I admit I've pushed the limit sometimes and I've ALWAYS paid for it...it made me angry every time how real it was!!! Fourth, I've learned how much I love CHURCH. I have had the blessing of the priests coming and bringing me the sacrament and I think that's amazing! I love the spirit that it brings into our home and I love being able to renew my covenants. I also had the blessing of my bishop and then a member of the stake presidency come into my home to have interviews to renew my temple recommend. I knew I wouldn't be going to the temple for awhile but I wanted a current recommend! These priesthood leaders were MORE than willing to come and accommodate me! It was really great to visit with each of them. Wayne is the ward clerk and our bishop has become a great friend and checks in on me often!!! His wife is the stake girls camp director and he brought me projects that could be done in bed to make me feel apart of girls camp being that I wouldn't be able to go! I LOVED IT!!!

I love my family near and far for keeping tabs on me! I have grown closer to each of my own children and I am more in love with my husband than I ever thought possible. I'm grateful for my testimony and my knowledge of my Savior! I am blessed to be carrying this special little spirit who is truly making a GRAND ENTRANCE! I can't wait to hold him and give him a good talking to :) I feel like I'm going to be a first time mom again...it's weird but I am more nervous this time around than I ever have been! I'M OLD!!!

Little baby comes in 4 more days, I'm still a little nervous about all that is going to happen, but I'm so excited to move on to the next phase! It will be different than my other labors but it's been so different thus far it seems fitting the way it will play out!

I hope in the next few days to do a few more posts of some of our Oregon happenings...then I'm sure my posts will be all baby related! I think I'm most excited to see my children interact with my new child...I really am so excited to see the relationship between each of them!

AAAHHHH I'M HAVING A BABY!!!

Memorial Day trip to the GORGE...

2011-07-24T13:18:00.001-07:00

When we first moved to Oregon I started working and Wayne was Mr. Mom. He tends to be all business and not real adventurous. He does like a good adventure but doesn't usually deviate from the mundane of the daily schedule. The kids were dying to have a day trip of some sort. By Memorial Day I had been on bed rest for about a month and the kids were REALLY going crazy! (I do have to say for Spring Break Wayne took the kids down to California for a week and they all had a GREAT time) anyway...by this time we all were getting a little stir crazy so I said let's drive over to the gorge (about a half hour from our house) and drive along the historic highway with all the amazing waterfalls. I said I can take the lounge chair and read while you guys hike to any of the falls you want. EVERYONE WAS THRILLED...it was a perfect cloudy, misty day in Oregon. It was fun to get out. I took a book and the Ensign and sat in the parking lots of all the falls. It was fun...I made the family promise they would take pictures that I would take and the following pics are the result of my family MOCKING my picture taking! I LOVED IT! I even got some videos of the sights and SOUNDS of their hikes!

These are of the Vista House, at the top of the drive looking out over the gorge. It really is breathtaking every time I go!

This is Jay letting me know he LOVES me on his way to Bridal Veil falls! Bridal Veil turned out to be everyone's favorite fall! I can't wait til I'm able to go and do this hike (toting a little one of course)

Can't you feel the love from this crazy girl? I got about 10 different poses of Britt on this rock...full on MOCKING my picture taking! PUNK!!!
MULTNOMAH FALLS

Britt and Jay stood at the foot of the parking lot with me while Ally and Wayne hiked up to the bridge. I really wanted to walk up the walk way to the foot of the lower falls but Britt and Jay refused to let me...BEDREST NAZI'S!!!

View from Horsetail Falls

Jay is singing how much he loves the rain and having his picture taken...he's a big fan!!!

My little gymnast...

2011-07-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

This past school year Ally did a couple of different enrichment classes after school. Her favorite was gymnastics. (she also did violin) Her gymnastics instructor LOVED her and invited her to come to her gym and be on her team...of course Ally was thrilled. She has been going to METRO gym since June and LOVES gymnastics. She can't walk into a room and not do a handstand or cartwheel. Her favorite is the balance beam and crazy dismounts! Ally is a little daredevil! I broke all of my bedrest rules and went with her to her first practice (sadly I didn't last very long and haven't been back) I hate that I haven't been able to watch her at the gym, but she gives me a THOROUGH update when she comes home! SHE'S CRAZY! The pictures below are all from her class at school, I have some pictures from the first practice I went to, but they are on my phone and I'm not sure how to get those onto my blog...oh well!!!

Bye Bye Birdie

2011-07-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics from Jay's middle school production of Bye Bye Birdie. I know I have mentioned that he was Hugo! I loved seeing this guy come alive on stage!!! He is a charmer!Britt was on of two highschoolers who were asked to do the choregraphy! She of course was thrilled and had the time of her life. Britt was also asked to be part of the stage crew and met some great HS friends in the process! I love to see my kids involved and happy!

BELOW are some pics of Jay's fans who came to see the play...

Looking forward to next years play "Pirates of Penzance"

Latest adventure...new nephew

2011-07-15T15:05:00.001-07:00

Andy and Melanie adopted little Joshua...YAY!!! Joshua had been in there home several times as a foster child and after going through a lot they were able to finally adopt little Joshie. My parents came to Oregon to see Jay in his middle school play Bye Bye Birdie and then I got to drive down to California with them to attend Joshie being sealed to his new family!!!I love taking pictures of the family paparazzi at any event...here we all are outside the Sacramento Temple. Lots of family and friends came to welcome Joshie to the family!!!
The cool Sorensen boys! Joshie looked so cute in his little white suit! Nick and Benjamin look way to grown up...why do kids have to grow up so quickly?!?!
On the way down to the sealing my parents and I stopped at the Tulip Festival in Woodburn, Oregon. I love seeing the acres and acres of bright tulips! So fun!
I had so much fun driving down with my parents. I haven't taken a road trip with my parents for a long time and it was fun. I love listening to music and having conversations with them and enjoying them all to myself!!!

Such great grandparents...they come and support my kids (and the other grandkids) in all that they do! My kids love it!

This adventure was my last one before I was put on bedrest. I flew home and two days later I was sentenced to bed! I love the memories made and the opportunity I got to be at Joshie's sealing. It is pretty amazing to see those youngsters come into the sealing room...lots of happy tears shed!!!

We actually have lives in Oregon...

2011-06-11T14:53:00.001-07:00

These pics are in no order...at all!!!

Wayne and Ally coming back from a bike ride
Ally at the zoo holding a colorful bird. When I saw this pic I was shocked that she held a bird. Wayne has been the room parent this year and has learned to appreciate me lots more!!! He always put on a great face but I know sometimes it drove him crazy! Trips to the zoo in enjoyed!
Brittany went to New York City with her school choir and had a great time. She worked hard at earning money and got to buy a necklace from Tiffany & Co. She loved this trip. I wish I could've gone with her, but I'm glad she had a good time!!!

Jay has melded great with the YM in our ward. He has had some fun scout campouts.

Jay enjoying the car show with his science class (Wayne quite enjoyed this field trip too!)
Ally and some of her school friends working on their science fair project. This was one of those afternoons that drove Wayne insane! He is super patient and very tolerant and CAN'T wait for me to return!!!
Below is a picture of Ally and Courtney. Courtney is a member and just lives a few houses down from us, they are the same age and became instant BFF's!!! This particular Sunday Courtney needed a ride to church and the girls thought it was so cool that the actually matched and didn't even plan it or know they had matching dresses!

We have had a few visitors...Gina Brunelli, from Pleasanton came right before Thanksgiving (I'm not sure where I stored those pictures. I'm thinking they are on the other computer so I'll post some of those later) We also had our good friends the POPLAWSKI'S come right after Christmas. We all had so much fun! Brittany and Kennedy went on a youth activity and Lisa and I got to be chaperones. It was so fun! After the activity we had all of the youth over to our house for games!
While I was working (sadly) Wayne and Lisa took all the kids to OMSI. I love that our two families get along so well and had a great afternoon together! Love good friends!!!
This is just a sampling of what we've been doing the past 9 months! I will post so more adventures soon!

Summer is here and I can't believe it! Britt is off to EFY. In a few weeks Jay will go camping with the scouts. Ally is starting gymnastics in a few weeks too! I hope to have this baby before August!!! I have an ultrasound on Thursday and then will schedule the AMNIO test and then hopefully get a delivery date! Can't believe it, but can hardly wait to get this little guy here!

Happy summer!!!

day 30- A picture of someone you miss...

2011-06-07T17:55:00.001-07:00

My Grandma Berta!!! I can't believe I haven't blogged about this yet...my Grandma died in February! She had been fading so it wasn't a total surprise. The morning my dad called me, I was on my way to work so it was early, I knew before I answered what the news would be. (I've always said when my dad calls it means somebody has died or something has happened to someone...this time it was somebody had died) I was calm in talking to him, which I thought I'd cry. When I was done talking to my dad I called Wayne and I TOTALLY broke down...I'm sure Wayne was freaking out! It wasn't until I had to say "my Grandma died" that it really it me! I truly believe I was her favorite, which really just means she was a great grandma because I'm sure everyone of her grandchildren feel the same way! (they are mistaken though)
I love the above picture. It's of my Dad standing at the grave. He looks more like a Bishop than a grieving son. He ran the show, planned things and I'm not sure he has grieved yet...hmmmm! He was the oldest child and only son and ALWAYS took care of his mother. I know there is a void in his life and now he has more time to garden and doesn't have to deliver the harvest to his mom!
Below is a picture of my dad with his mom and three of his sisters and his sister Carol's husband Cal. (Carol passed a few years ago)
In all of my free time I went through some of my albums and found some fun pictures of times we spent with Grandma.
Jay and Grandma at Jay's baptism
Britt and Grandma making rolls for Jay's baptism feast! Grandma insisted on helping, and my dad said "tell her to make rolls, that should keep her busy!"
Grandma came to visit my family several times when we lived in California (because I'm the favorite) We had lots of fun adventures with her. I decided that I have so many fun pictures with her I need to do another post of her.
The above picture is of my Dad and Grandma at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk...I love that they rode the sky ride! Love it!!! I really enjoy my dad's rolled up pants and sandals, he's so cool!!!
This picture is of my kiddos on one of our summer visits to Utah. We always went to see Grandma! I miss my Grandma, but I'm happy she's in a better place. I'm grateful for the direction the gospel gives me and for my knowledge that families are forever!!!

day 29- A picture that can always make me smile...

2011-06-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of pictures that make me smile. I picked some from my wedding because looking through my wedding book ALWAYS makes me smile. I loved this day!!!The above picture I remember so distinctly what I was thinking. My cheeks were so sore from smiling, but I couldn't help smiling! I was finally married to my Wayne! I realized a dream and he was it! I didn't think in the moment above I could ever love him more but boy was I wrong! I love him so much more today!
In the above picture I was doing "he loves me he loves me not" with a flower and he loved me not! I laugh every time I look through these pre-wedding shots! What do flowers know any way?!? He totally loved me and still does!

The past few months of being on bed rest Wayne has been amazing. He really has been a bed rest NAZI and I know it's because he loves me. He and Britt keep me from over doing (which I tend to want to do a lot) On Memorial day we drove to Multnomah Falls...I of course was reclined and Wayne packed a reclining chair for me. We were lucky enough to get a parking spot as close as possible and I stepped out to take a picture of the kids by the sign with the falls behind them. I made the comment "don't you think I could just make it to the top of those few stairs?" (the rest of the family had already hiked horsetail falls while I sat and read the Ensign) I really wanted to go and Britt said "yeah, I think you could but I know you should NOT!" Wayne took Ally up to the bridge and Jay and Britt stayed down with boring ole' me! It was a nice change from my bed or couch! I love that my kids have stepped up and understand that mom is out of commission for a few more months! (I hate it) I do love that when the kids come home I'm the first person they come and talk to. They jump on my bed or the couch and tell me about their day...that I love!!! Wayne says to me all the time that he can do the cleaning, laundry and meals but he can never be ME...I told you he was amazing!!! We've all gained a lot out of this experience and can't wait to get this baby here!

I can't wait for school to get out...5 more days!!!

day28 - A picture of something you're afraid of...

2011-06-03T10:01:00.000-07:00

I am scared to death to have a C SECTION!!! I'm not looking forward to this AT ALL!!! I'm still holding out for a miracle that my placenta will move and I'll be able to deliver without a c section! I have learned to not read stuff on the internet because there are only horror stories printed!!! I am also a little freaked by the fact that I have to have the amniocentesis test (again only horror stories printed) I am that weird mom who has loved every single delivery... I love the timing of contractions, I love my water breaking, I love the pushing...I DON'T WANT A C SECTION!!! PRAY FOR ME :)

day27 - A picture of yourself and a family member...

2011-06-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

My sister Anne...we couldn't be more different but I couldn't love her more! She can sing, I can dance, she can play the piano, I teach piano!!! She was on the debate team I was on the dance team. When I was a sophomore Anne was a senior and that year requirements changed and seniors had to take an extra science credit for graduation we ended up in the same science class (she was smart I was NOT) I felt really cool because most of my class was seniors! We had this big chapter final test and Anne got a B or a C (I like to think it was a C but that's probably doubtful) I GOT AN A...let me say that again I GOT AN A!!! Anne complained to the teacher and said "this can't possibly be right!" HA--it was! I don't think I've ever felt so smart!!! I love Anne to death, I keep trying to convince her to come and visit me in my bed ridden condition and I know sometime she'll get here (between working and jet setting to ECUADOR) She has been to every baby blessing, baptism, school play and Britt's birthday parties she always just shows up!!! (although this year for the SWEET 16 she didn't show...hmmm)I've mentioned about when she came and stayed in the hospital with me. SHE REALLY IS AMAZING!!! We were the only girls with five brothers! I've always loved that we were right in a row, she's 22 months older than me! We were always matchy, matchy for every holiday--which is weird because we really don't have the same style AT ALL!!!

Anne is my creative source--while others google I call Anne!

Looking forward to our next visit (which will be soon RIGHT?!?!?)

day26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you...

2011-06-01T13:21:00.000-07:00

This one is a little weird but, being able to read means a lot to me! My family and some of my things mean a lot to me, but I am so grateful for my education. I can't imagine not being able to read. I may not know how to do a lot of things (like Ally's homework some nights) but I can read and that helps me figure things out! Reading has built my testimony, increased my knowledge and helped me bond with my kids. Reading is amazing and I truly can't imagine not having that ability!!! Random I know...there it is !!!

Day 25- A picture of my day

2011-05-31T21:15:00.001-07:00

When Ally gets home from school Wayne sets up a recliner for me outside and I watch Ally ride her bike. EXCITING right... I love it!!! I love when it's not raining outside and I get a change of scenery from the couch or the bed!!!
The above picture is of me on Mother's Day which I consider to be "my day" A few years ago I got the Caroline Kennedy book of poems collected by Jackie O...it started a new tradition for my family, every Mother's Day my kids give me a poem that they wrote or a poem that they think is fitting for them in their life at the time. I have some great poems thus far!!! I'M SO PREGNANT in this picture but decided to get over that fact and post a picture of myself anyway!!!

day24 - A picture of something you wish you could change...

2011-05-28T21:35:00.000-07:00

Of course I would love to change the position of my placenta, but I'm told that will take a miracle (I'm still holding out for one)

I really wish that I could change the fact that I'll never get to go to Camp Ritchie again...it seriously is depressing! I loved the 5 years I got to go and will treasure the memories and friendships made.

I know I'll go to girls camp again, but not Camp Ritchie!!!

day23 - A picture of your favorite book...

2011-05-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

I LOOOOVVEE Gone With the Wind... LOVE it!!! Always have always will. I just finished reading Rhett Butler's People--it was worth reading and it was MUCH better than the book Scarlett but it was no GONE WITH THE WIND!!!Ramona the Brave is the first book I remember reading on my own. I was in Miss Evans 3rd grade class and this is when I fell in love with reading! I am currently reading this book with Ally and it's like I'm in 3rd grade again. I love Susie boing boing curls (I like to imagine that girls in 3rd grade looked at my boing boing curls with such admiration...I slept in curlers EVERY NIGHT!)
I love a good book. I'm the type of person who can't put the book down (whatever I'm reading) until it's done! When the Harry Potter books would come out my kids knew I'd be on the couch until the book was finished (I did pause to feed them)

day22 - A picture of something you wish you were better at...

2011-05-26T17:38:00.000-07:00

I wish I were a better runner...actually I wish I enjoyed running. Wayne loves to run and runs almost daily and I've never loved running. I don't want to run a marathon or anything I wish I could just go on a run with my husband and enjoy it!!! Of course the other thing I wish I were better at is sight reading piano music. (I really should have practiced more!!) Any hints or helpful tips on learning to enjoy running I'd love to hear them...

day21 - A picture of something you wish you could forget...

2011-05-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

NOTHING... I love the line from the movie 13 Going on 30 when the daughter asks the mom if she could have one do over what would it be and the mom says nothing! She then goes on to explain that if she hadn't have made mistakes she wouldn't have learned from them. Luckily I've lived a life that I really don't regret decisions that I've made. I absolutely have things in my life that I wish turned out better or could've gone better, but I don't wish to forget any of them. I am happy with all of my memories and hope to continue to grow from experiences gone bad!!!

day20 - A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel...

2011-05-24T22:16:00.000-07:00

New York State...I've never been! Britt got to go a few months ago and I REALLY wanted to be a chaperone but I had just found out I was pregnant and I was working and sadly couldn't make it work. Jay went to Palmyra last year with my dad and sister.(tried to find a pic of Jay's trip and couldn't) I think it's my turn...

day19 - A picture and a letter....

2011-05-23T16:30:00.000-07:00

This one has been hard for me... I thought of letters I have from each of my brothers. Ben would have been the winner because I keep his letter in my scriptures, although I do have great letters from each of my brothers. I have some great letters from Grandparents and my kids. I'm sitting here watching the OPRAH show and so I took a different take and decided to go with the letter O in honor of me being a fan of Oprah! I know some don't like her but I have always been a fan!!! I may have to subscribe to OWN!!!

day18 - A picture of your biggest insecurity.

2011-05-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

My smile...always has been. Looking through all of my many albums of pictures, there aren't very many pictures of me. If there are pictures of me, I'm rarely smiling. I do also wish I was more confident in my piano playing in front of other people, but I'm more willing to play the piano for people than smile for them. I'm not a grumpy or sad person, I just don't think I have a pretty smile...lame I know, but there it is my biggest insecurity!

day17 - A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently...

2011-05-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

As much as I haven't enjoyed my frequent Ultrasounds, I am grateful for this technology. This machine has put me on bed rest but it's for my health and the health of my unborn baby. That's a pretty big impact on a wife and a mother of three. My husband has been amazing and all of my children have stepped up to help out wherever they can. I can't wait to have this baby, and thanks to ultrasounds I will have a healthy safe delivery!!! YAY

Day 16- Picture of someone who inspires you...

2011-05-18T14:15:00.000-07:00

I love listening to, reading and watching anything these people have to say. After General Conference I always feel inspired to be better, do more, love more and serve more. I love RS and YW conferences too. I love when the Wayne and Jay come home from Priesthood and share what was said. My favorite ENSIGN magazine months are May and November.

My parents, my spouse and my children also inspire daily...this post made me dig a little deeper than the obvious so I chose church leaders. I'm lucky to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Wonderful inspired leaders inspire me!!!

Day15 - A picture of something you want to do before you die.

2011-05-17T11:59:00.000-07:00

Doing this 30 day challenge has made me really have to think about some of my posts. This one was more difficult than I thought it would be. I have no desire to go skydiving or run a marathon. I'm a wife and a mother which was always my goal, so I had to dig deep!!! I've always wanted to have my own Dance Studio and teach ages 3-15ish. My kids always have taken dance from stay at home moms and I've always thought "I could do this!" Maybe someday...

day14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without.

2011-05-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

My family...each one of these individuals has had an influence on my life. Obviously I wouldn't be here without my parents (duh!) I'm grateful to my parents for giving me the gospel and a deep sense of family and the importance of traditions. ANDY-was and is still the perfect big brother. I adore him and his family. ANNE- where do I even start... I have so many memories of her and she'll probably end up with a post all about her. I think my most favorite memory with her is when Jay was born she came and stayed with Brittany and then the nights that I was in the hospital she came and slept with me at the hospital while Wayne went home to be with Britt. Anne brought me a Snelgrove's banana split and set the nurses straight to not wake me up unless Jay needed to me. (she was annoyed that the nurses came in EVERY hour to check on me) I love her to death. JON- was my best friend growing up. Lots of good times, I really can't imagine my life without him. Love his family too!!! Man--he deserves his own post too! MATT- I think Matt has taught each of us lots of lessons. BEN- oh Benjamin how I love thee! You've already had your own post so you know I love you!!! Like the text you sent to Britt on her birthday I feel that way about you ;) Love your Ashlee too! TYLER-I'm excited that Tyler lives somewhat close to me now. I hope we'll get to see him this summer. I remember when Tyler was born I was so excited and I brought him to my 3rd grade class for show-n-tell. Ben & Tyler were fun teenagers and I loved that they tolerated me and at least pretended to like their older sister. There you have it. I can't imagine my life without this crazy bunch!!!

Day 13- favorite band

2011-05-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Chicago. I personally am a fan of Peter Cetera, Chicago to me is with Peter! If you're a fan I would recommend David Foster & Friends version of "You're the Inspiration" (it's amazing)

Day 12- Something I love

2011-05-14T14:09:00.001-07:00

If you know me even just a little you probably know that I LOVE RED VINES!!! If you've ever had me as a teacher or just hung out with me this is always my choice of snack or treat!!! When I was younger and going off to Girls Camp my parents would always send me with licorice and then on Bishopbric night I'd get a new package!!! Now I bring my own 4lb tub to girls camp (sometimes 2 because of course I share!)I love my family (yadda yadda) but this post I went for something that I LUUUVVV!!!

Day 11- Something I hate

2011-05-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

Normally I would say I love bed but this past month NOT SO MUCH!!! Hate is a strong word so really I would have to say I hate the word hate, but for picture sake and at this time in my life I really don't like my bed rest sentence!!!

Day 10- Person I do the craziest things with

2011-05-11T17:40:00.000-07:00

AMELIA... I've done too many crazy things with this girl to even attempt to list them!!! She's my cousin and I've known her her whole life. I was 10 when she was born and I've adored her since she was born!!! I still can't get over the fact that she's a mommy!!! I adore her and have lots of fun memories of my time with her!!!

I don't know if Amelia is reading any of my 30 day challenge, if you are you should send to me the other half of this picture to post!!! LOVE YOU!!!

Day 9- Person who has gotten me through the most

2011-05-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

My knowledge of my Savior has definitely gotten me through the most. My husband sharing the same goal of being married in the temple, and raising our family with the same beliefs has held me together. Growing up in a Christ centered home...all of the big decisions in my life have been made based on my knowledge of Christ. I'm lucky to have the Savior on my side through my ups and downs!!!

Day 8- A picture that makes me laugh

2011-05-09T20:14:00.000-07:00

This picture makes me laugh for multiple reasons... 1- Britt is a spazz and refused to be totally matchy matchy with us and wore tan pants. 2- Ally and Jay are in their own little world. 3- Britt is always striking some sort of pose. 4- LOOK AT WAYNE'S FACE...it's really what makes me laugh every time I look at this picture! I LOVE MY FAMILY!!!

Day 7- Most treasured item

2011-05-08T21:48:00.000-07:00

I went for the obvious. I originally was going to post a picture of the ruby rings I have. I have one from my parents, one from my Grandma Berta and one from my Grandma Betty... but the more I thought about it and the truth is my family is my most treasured item!!! I love them and they will be with me for eternity!!! (appropriate post for Mother's Day!!!)

Day 6- Person I would love to trade places with for a day

2011-05-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

I could've chosen the Prophet or some movie star, but I am going with my 13 almost 14 year old son for the person I would LOVE to trade places with for a day (I don't think I could handle more than a day!) He is that kid that HATES to do homework and sometimes just refuses and then gets 100% on all of his tests. He baffles his teachers (I kind of love that) He's funny and adored by the entire female population at his school and some other schools in the district...pretty sure his school in California too! I really would love to experience what he does in a day! I adore him and I love his sarcasm and quick wit! I love how he blushes when I read aloud some of his texts (yes, I'm that crazy mom who does that!) I love seeing him be the first to jump up and help when someone is in need. What can I say...I LOVE THIS KID!!!

Day 5- Favorite Memory

2011-05-06T21:52:00.000-07:00

I love the memory of each of my children's births, but of course it all started the day I married my Wayne! I love every thing about the day we got married. When we came out of the Temple it was of course really hot being the 1st day of July in Utah, but it was really windy and it was amazing! I love all of our windy wedding pictures. My favorite memory of the day was after our reception on our way to our hotel we got pulled over by a cop because Wayne had run a red light...the cop took one look at us in our wedding garb and asked how far our hotel was...HA! I wish I had a picture of that!

Day 4- Silliest thing

2011-05-05T20:34:00.001-07:00

Of course the silliest thing I've ever done would include anything from Girls Camp!!! This is just the most recent silliest thing...we were all saying our vowels enthusiastically not knowing when the picture would be taken! Love girls camp!!!

Day 3- Cast Photo

2011-05-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

CASTLE... love my Monday nights. First FHE and then I put kids to bed and watch me some CASTLE! I love this show!!!

Day 2- person I've been closest to the longest....

2011-05-03T19:41:00.000-07:00

I could have chosen so many different people for this post! My husband, my sister, my aunt Barbara, my cousin Amelia, really any of my siblings... I asked my husband and he said "your mother" and I asked Britt and she replied "me of course!" So I'm doing both!

Being that I'm currently pregnant I can attest to the fact that I have quite literally been closest to my mother the longest! Growing up my mom and I butted heads a lot, but I would never say I wasn't close to her. I've always admired her and she continues to amaze me. Being a mother and a grandmother is definitely the most important thing to her and she is great at both! I recently did a road trip with my mom and dad and it was so much fun to spend time with just them! My mom is very astute at what is needed and she listens and acts upon promptings! This post seems fitting that this weekend is Mother's Day! I love my mom!!!

Britt is my oldest child and when Jay or Ally are feeling picked on or not loved enough they spout out "you love Britt the most"...Britt always replies "no she doesn't she's just loved me the longest!" (her siblings don't like that much) Britt is almost 16 and I can't believe it! She was born on Mother's Day in 1995. I've loved every moment of being her mom! My only complaint would be that she's growing up way too fast!

Day 1- A picture of me with fifteen facts...here goes

2011-05-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

1- I love going to the ZOO!!

2- I am the third child of seven

3- I am the mother of 3 amazing kids and soon to have a fourth, and I LOVE IT!!!

4- I am overweight!!! (it's a fact)

5- I love parties!

6- I love taking pictures

7- I love scrapbooking and making cards!

8- I have been married for nearly 17 years to my best friend!

9- I love to dance! (much like SJP in Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!)

10-I am the best BELCHER...EVER!!! (again, it's a fact!)

11-Not only do I love being a mother, but I LOVE being an aunt, cousin, grandchild, niece...basically I love being part of a family!!!

12-I love old movies and musicals!

13-I love serving in the church...I really don't have a favorite calling, I've loved everything! Okay, if I really have to pick I'd say I LOVE GIRLS CAMP!!!

14-I play the piano...not very well, but I play! I also took violin and flute and can play Mary had a Little Lamb on all three instruments!

15-I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints!!! (last the best of all the gang!)

30 Day Challenge...

2011-05-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

I have been very slothful in my blogging so I thought I'd try this 30 day picture challenge to try and ignite the blogging flame within me.

day1 - A picture of yourself with fifteen facts.
day2 - A picture of you and the person you have been closest with the longest.
day3 - A picture of the cast from your favorite show.
day4 - A picture of your silliest moment.
day5 - A picture of your favorite memory.
day6 - A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day.
day7 - A picture of your most treasured item.
day8 - A picture that makes you laugh.
day9 - A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most.

day10 - A picture of the person you do the most crazy things with.
day11 - A picture of something you hate.
day12 - A picture of something you love.
day13 - A picture of your favorite band or artist.
day14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without.
day15 - A picture of something you want to do before you die.
day16 - A picture of someone who inspires you.
day17 - A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently.
day18 - A picture of your biggest insecurity.
day19 - A picture and a letter.

day20 - A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel.
day21 - A picture of something you wish you could forget.
day22 - A picture of something you wish you were better at.
day23 - A picture of your favorite book.
day24 - A picture of something you wish you could change.
day25 - A picture of your day.
day26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you.
day27 - A picture of yourself and a family member.

day28 - A picture of something you're afraid of.
day29 - A picture that can always make you smile.
day30 - A picture of someone you miss.

It's a...

2011-04-09T22:03:00.000-07:00

BOY!!!

Ally it put it the best..."now our family is perfect!"

some sort of update...

2011-03-29T14:43:00.000-07:00

Life has been crazy since we moved to Oregon! Good, but crazy! I haven't quite found a good rythym for everything I used to do. I was just looking at my posts and I haven't even put on here that I'M PREGNANT!!! Hard to believe but I am half way already! This preganacy has been very different than my others. I'm tired ALL THE TIME...I feel like such a slug somedays! My brain works some of the time but usually after the fact! Kids are doing great. Britt went with her choir to NY and had a great time. For spring break the kids and Wayne went down to Pleasanton and had a great visit. (wish I could've gone too) I feel like life is getting to be somewhat normal again...whatever that is or was! I need to find my card reader so I can upload some new pictures! tomorrow we find out if our new little addition will be pink or blue...stay tuned!!!

Trip to Post Falls...

2011-03-09T16:26:00.000-08:00

Crazy quick trip to see Tyler and family the weekend after Thanksgiving. What normally should take about 5 hours took us 12 hours because of SNOW!!! INSANE...but so worth it to spend a weekend with family. My parents and Anne were there and it was a fun filled weekend. We saw Harry Potter #7 (awesome) we got in some shopping and we took a fun boat ride to the North Pole (pretty sure we were in the north pole)

THERE WAS SOOO MUCH SNOW! Post Falls got over a foot of snow while we were there...this Utah girl has been a way from snow for a long time. We had a great visit and were able to return home in the normal 5 hours!
The Fam
Gramma Susie and the "original grandkids"
The girls

The gang on the boat to the North Pole...it was freezing!!!

Yellowstone 2010

2011-02-05T16:13:00.000-08:00

Most everyone has seen my Yellowstone pictures on FACEBOOK, so I just picked a few of my favorites and thought I'd share some of my favorite quotes from the trip.
If you didn't know already, my family went to Yellowstone for my sisters 40th birthday...she decided to throw herself a big week long trip. It was a lot of fun staying in a fun cabin right on the reservoir.
FAVORITE QUOTES...
Brittany via text while inside Yellowstone Park: "we drove 20 hours to see boiling water come up out of the earth that smells like rotten eggs? Awesome!"
Jay while down at the lake: "Ally why would I throw you in...MAYBE 'CAUSE MOM SAID I COULD...splash!"
Ally while Pa Bob and Tyler climbed onto the tube: "Pa Bob's belly is WHITE!"
Ally while loading up cars to go to the park: "why would I go in your car Mom when I could go in Uncle Andy's"

Madie while hanging out at the cabin:"Mommy there are cantaloupes running outside" (speaking of the antelopes)

Popular attractions: Upper Falls, Old Faithful and Yellowstone Lake (my personal favorite)
When we came back from hiking to Upper Falls there was a crowd around our car pointing out Brittany's friendship bracelet that she was working on and it was taped to the back of a seat...it caused quite the crowd. Everyone thought it was adorable...I thought it was creepy that people were staring in my car!!!

We had a great time!

Ally celebrated her 9th birthday at the cabin

Britt and Beth visited BYU-I...they hope to attend someday soon...sooner than I'd like to admit!

favorite family photo...the true us

Britt soaking up the great stench

Wayne and Britt at Yellowstone Lake

Oh Brittany!

You have to get this shot right?!?

In the backyard of the cabin after and AMAZING thunderstorm!

Madie soooo excited to have her picture taken!

Wayne and Jay

My cute birthday girl!

Family at Old Faithful

Oh Brittany!

Cannon cousins. Hallie, Ally and Annie (yes it's quite the mouthful)

Betty and Jim...love them!

BEN!!!

Britt's favorite part of Yellowstone...she loved the smell!!!

Oregon

2011-01-27T21:00:00.000-08:00

Life in Oregon has been really different for all of us. Different good not different bad. I went back to work full time and Wayne has been doing the full time at home thing. If nothing else is gained we both have really learned to appreciate each others roles.
Going back to work full time has been really hard for me. I've missed so much...Britt got her driver's permit. This was the hardest thing for me, I felt so jipped that I didn't get to be there for the moment. I did get a play by play via text and a picture of the big moment, but it wasn't the same. Probably totally selfish to say, but I just didn't feel like Wayne enjoyed the moment as much as I would have...I'M THE MOM!!! I really miss volunteering in Ally's class. I'm grateful she still has a few years left in elementary so I will still get to do some volunteering.
Jay made his middle school basketball team and thank goodness I didn't ever miss a game (I probably would've quit my job if that was the case) It has been fun to see Jay meld so well and to see his confidence in himself grow so much. Jay also tried out for the middle school musical Bye Bye Birdie and got the part of Hugo! He is loving all the attention from all the girls. I can't wait to see him up on stage where he LOVES to be.
My job is just a temporary thing, and I look forward to assuming my natural role as a stay at home mom. I have gained a huge appreciation for all those moms who have to work and make mothering look so easy. IT'S HARD!!! I've never been a fan of the phrase "working mom" because all moms work!!! Wayne has been very sweet and loving and tells me I'm his hero! NOW HE GETS WHAT I DID DURING THE DAY!!!
Britt is helping do the choreography for Jay's musical. (she loves it) The stake here is very different than in Pleasanton. I definitely see the benefits of President Coopers inspiration to combine the wards for youth programs. In the nearly 5 months that we've been here, there has only been 1 stake activity...so weird!!! Seminary has been different for Britt, she really misses Brother Maxwell. She never has missed or complained but I know she doesn't love seminary like she did last year. Takes time!!!
I'm serving as a counselor in the RS presidency. Very different from Primary and YW! Lots of changes with our family, but we're doing GREAT, I love how well my kids have faced the challenges of a facing a new ward and school. They amaze me!

Lots more to blog and I'll post some pictures too!

So much to BLOG...where to start?

2010-12-30T18:15:00.000-08:00

I'm still deciding what I should blog about next. So much to blog about!!!
Stay tuned!!! (I promise something is coming...probably YELLOWSTONE fun finally!!!)

Wordy Post...

2010-09-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I finally feel a little settled. I think it's about time I posted something on my blog. A lot has happened since my last post. I can finally talk about Girls Camp without crying...still get teary eyed, but no more full on crying!!! Camp was very different this year. I was solely over CAMPFIRE and didn't work all year with the YCL's...that was weird! I love doing campfire, and the girls make everything worth it! Britt was a 4th year which means she leaves camp for most of the week. This year it was an adventure for her for sure. I was sad to see her go, but sooo excited for her what she got to do. The 4th years in the Pleasanton stake leave for 3 days and 2 nights to then hike ROUND TOP, a 10,000 foot peak in the Sierras. This year was a little different, the group of girls got a little off course (we wouldn't dare say LOST!!!) they just didn't make it to their "planned" destination the first night. Most of my readers know the story so I won't recap the whole thing. The groups second day out, they were located and after a LOOONG day were brought back to camp around 12:30 am. I was thrilled to get to see Britt, we both hugged each other and started crying and then laughing and recapping the events. While Britt was off with the 4th years, I was back at camp and got the dreaded flu bug that hit almost 30 of our campers. I was OUT!!! I was glad for great YCL's who stepped in and did campfire for me! It was only a 12 hour bug so by morning I was really doing a lot better (until I heard about the "misplaced" 4th years!) All in all it was a great year at camp, one that will go down in history I'm sure! I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to go to Camp Ritchie for the past 5 years. Which leads me to the next thing...Our family has moved back to OREGON! I am so sad to not get to go back to Camp Ritchie! It was an amazing Girls Camp...I know girls camp will be fun here too! (I hope I get to go!)
The kids have each melded great at their new schools. Each of them had great friends in California and they have gravitated to the same type of friends here in West Linn! Each of them is happy and that of course makes me happier!!! We love being near family. Wish all of my family was closer.
I have been called to be the 2nd counselor in RS...I haven't been to RS since I last lived here 7 years ago! I am excited to work with the "enrichment" committee...which is now just supposed to be called RS mtg night- RIGHT?!?!
Here soon (maybe even later today) I will post about the SORENSEN adventure to YELLOWSTONE, and my quick trip to Utah to see AMELIA, MEGAN and their cute babies!!!

Camp Ritchie 2010

2010-08-22T18:17:00.000-07:00

Pictures from Camp Ritchie 2010...to go down in history as the best 4th year hike EVER!!! I'm still a little emotional about this year, I sat down to blog about it and started getting teary eyed. I think it probably has more to do with the fact that my years at Camp Ritchie are over because we are moving...aahhh yeah, I can't talk about this right now! Enjoy the pics!

I'm trying to get caught up on my blogging...here's TREK 2010

2010-07-27T21:22:00.000-07:00

I feel very blessed to have been able to go on the TREK with our youth this year. I truly find it to be a blessing to be able to serve in such a great Stake. (I'm sure every person who serves with the youth feels this way!) I was fortunate enough to go on a Trek four years ago...I was the photographer and did a lot of walking, but enjoyed every minute. This year I was on the activities committee and I got to serve with my cute husband. It was a very different experience, I didn't hike as much with the youth, but I got to meet them as they came into camp each night. I was amazed at how happy each company came into camp. They literally came in running and singing, eagerly ready to do activities. This time around my oldest daughter Brittany was on the Trek. It made the experience this time around to see her enjoying and growing through her own experience. Britt was selected to be part of the TREK SINGERS and on the first day Wayne and I walked to meet up with the Trekkers to hear Britt singing during the final vignette. Of course tears filled my eyes as we heard her sing "Come, Come Ye Saints" I know I sound like a broken record, but Britt is AWESOME!!! Above is Britt's family. What a great group of kids she got to be with. I can't help but think the Lord has something very special planned for her, because she always ends up with amazing leaders and kids to hang out with. Below is Britt and Hannah having a stick pull fight. The stick pull was one of the many activities on the first night and I happened to be in charge! Sadly, Hannah out pulled Britt, but it was one of the best matches of the whole bunch!

Below is a picture of Taylor Fife, he was Britt's oldest "brother". He is one amazing kid, and he gets the award for my favorite quote of the whole TREK. Here's the story...on the first day the kids in their family were learning how to work together and how to steer the hand cart. The boys were usually in the back and the girls were in the front. The families Ma and Pa were encouraging the kids to keep the handcart straight...apparently it was rather difficult and they weren't doing a very good job of it and Taylor asked "what's so great about being straight anyway?" When this story was related to us back into camp we laughed and laughed...pretty much the whole night! Taylor, I'm so glad you were in Britt's family! I adore you♥

Below is the activities committee heading out before all the Trekkers. As you can see we were FULL. Wayne had a great time sitting on our "steer". I was a little worried he might fall off and get hurt, but of course he was fine and only had to duck a few times to avoid getting decapitated by trees.

Above is on the second night. During the few months leading up to trek, the activities committee taught the youth how to square dance. During this night we had the kids compete family against family in a dance off!!! A lot of people thought we were crazy and that we would NO WAY get the kids to square dance...they loved it!!! It was such a fun night. They danced FOREVER and at the end of the dancing HOXIE, our cook had hot scones ready for everyone. I really can't say enough about the attitudes of our youth...they were all truly AMAZING!

These are some shots of Britt and her family trekking. I was kind of blown away at how difficult the terrain of the trek was, but the kids NEVER complained. They really were trekkers and I love that they built such great bonds with each other and truly learned to work together.

Above is Britt's family during the Women's Pull...I thought this part was going to be difficult for the girls, but they did it so easily and expressed several times that they thought it was going to be longer. I got to help them during this part...I thought it was PLENTY long enough!!! Below is of course my cute Britt...I loved that she had so much fun making her outfits. I think she was the cutest little pioneer girl ever!!! (I'm a little prejudice!)

These are just some random shots of Britt's family trekking...I have to say I lucked out that the photographers son was in Britt's family so I ended up with a lot of pictures of her!!! Thank you Brother Fisher ;)

I LOVE THAT THEY ARE RUNNING...who does that?

Enjoying a sit after dinner right before square dancing begins. LOVE THESE LADIES!!!

I love the above picture of Britt. I don't know what it is, but every time I look at it I get teary eyed...not hard for me to do I know!!! Britt has been blessed with some great opportunities in her youth. Wayne and I really enjoyed being in camp to greet her upon her coming in from trekking all day. She was always eager to share her day of events and hug and kiss us. I feel really blessed that she includes us and is never embarrassed to have us around. (we are pretty amazing too;)) Her group of friends always came to hang out with us, and ate dinner with us and encouraged us to do the activities with them. It was fun to have them include us ol' folk!!!

The above picture is the last leg of the Women's Pull...you can tell they are exhausted, but they do have smiles on their faces!!!

Thanks Brother Fisher...I love the above picture. Britt came home and told me that Bro. Fish was IN HER FACE CONSTANTLY...I am so glad he was!!!

There ya have it...our 2010 Trek with the Pleasanton Stake. Saturday morning we had a testimony meeting, which was so good. Britt and the Trek Singers sang some great songs...yes, I cried A LOT!!! So glad to be apart of the true gosple of Jesus Christ and to be able to share in these adventures that provide opportunites for the youth to gain or strengthen their testimonies. I always feel that my testimony grows leaps and bounds serving with the youth. What a privilege!!!

Some much needed catching up...

2010-06-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day weekend my sister flew me up to Seattle to attend a fundraiser. It was all about PURSES and we scored a lot of new bags!!! Doesn't matter what we're doing or where we are it's always a party with ANNE!!! For whatever reason these pics got out of order and blogger isn't letting me rearrange them...GRRR!!! Below are a couple of pics of the kids in their Easter clothes. As you can tell I was playing with my camera a lot back then! However, my kids are quite adorable!!!

I lived in Oregon for a few years and never made it to Seattle, I'm glad that Anne appeased me and let me do some sight seeing!

The Seattle Temple was beautiful...it was a perfect day. This is where my husband first went through the temple, and did youth trips back in the day!

The week after the kids returned to school from spring break we decided to pick them up early and take them into the city to do the ZIP LINE on the Embarcadero. We thought we were being so clever in doing it on a weekday...we arrived too late and weren't able to get tickets. We were all bummed but decided to go over to Golden Gate Park and have some fun anyway! The kids love the cement slide! It's always fun visiting this HUGE park! We then went to the Ferry Building and got some food for a picnic. The day started out as a bust but turned out great anyway!

Ally thrilled to have made it to the tippy top!!!

More catching up to come...I have lots!

"Mom I need to feel loved, can you do a blog about me?"...JAY

2010-05-23T18:56:00.001-07:00

I love my Jay man! He is in my opinion the best son in the world (for me!!!) He is very astute in knowing when I need help and when to steer clear! He's such a little gentleman, and is very respectful to me and his sisters. This year Jay has grown a lot and is almost as tall as me. I'm not ready to face the fact that soon he will be the tallest in our family! Jay has had a fun year in middle school. It's been a pleasure to see him make some tough choices about what friends to hang out with. I'm lucky that he made GREAT decisions. Everybody loves Jay...the line from Ferris Bueller comes to mind when describing him-- "Oh, he's very popular! The sportos, the motorheads. geeks, *&^%$, bloods, waistoids, dweebies, @#%!&*@#$, they all adore him. They think he's a righteous dude!" This describes Jay to a tee!!! One day I was helping a few of the 12 year old girls from our ward with a project and I asked them "so, how is Jay at school?" they replied "EVERYBODY LOVES JAY!"

Jay is very inquisitive. He asks some deep questions sometimes and is NEVER satisfied with some of the passive answers I give him. He has a real desire to know answers!!! I love him for that, he keeps me on my toes!

Have tree will climb...this will be engraved on his tombstone!!! When we went to the park to take pictures of the kids, I thought it would be cute if all the kids were hanging upside down. Jay COULD NOT do it! We laughed so hard at his desperate attempts.

A couple of weeks ago, one of the 6 year olds in our ward called and asked if Jay could come over and help show him how to dress for church. It was soo cute! The following Sunday, Jay was asked by the parents to come and help get the kid ready for church...Jay very willing went and helped! I know a lot of the little guys look up to Jay. Jay has quickly become the favorite babysitter in the ward and it's starting to irritate his older sister!!!

Jay gives the greatest hugs! I'm lucky to be his mom!!!

Jay is such a jokester...he and Britt work well as a team!!!

I hope Jay feels more loved now! He is one amazing kid. I have learned a lot from him, and I'm sure he's got lots more to share!

Brittany

2010-05-18T08:47:00.000-07:00

My sweet Britt turned 15 on Friday...I still can't believe it!!! Britt was born on Mother's Day. It was a perfect first Mother's Day. I feel so blessed to be her mother. I have learned so much from her. Britt is so confident in who she is and truly stands strong for all that she believes in. People are drawn to her and she welcomes everyone with open arms. Britt was recently asked by the Stake Presidency to speak at the upcoming Seminary Graduation, she will be speaking in honor of the Freshman. She's amazing! Britt is definitely the peacemaker in our family. She's always the first to make a joke and the first to speak up when she has an opposing opinion...always with tact of course! She's an amazing negotiator and is very good at getting what she wants. I truly am so thankful the Lord sent her to me, she's been a joy from day one!!!

She's always been picture perfect in my opinion. She has always made everything an adventure and a fun memory! I love her for that!

Can't you just feel her mocking my picture taking in this one...she's a delight!

This year Britt had a "Minute to Win it" party. It was so fun to see her and her friends do the goofy games and compete against each other. Britt has an amazing group of friends. It was fun to have a houseful of teenagers.

I love this picture above...I wish I had video taped the opening of presents. All of the guys made "ooh and aww" sounds every time Britt opened a present. It was HILARIOUS!!! The night was filled with fun and games and the energy from these guys is infectious!

Every child should be so lucky to have an aunt like Aunt Anne...she surprised Britt by showing up with Beth and Bella. Anne called from our driveway (unbeknown to us) and told Britt to go online and look at the picture she had just posted of her present. When Britt opened up the picture it was of Beth and Bella in our driveway. So fun!!! Wayne and Jay were away at Father's and Sons so we went and enjoyed a girls night out. We went to dinner and then went and saw "Letters to Juliet" it was the cutest movie!

Britt got braces a few days before her birthday. I think she's adorable! I can't wait to see the end result!!!

I mentioned that Britt has great friends...when I picked her up from school on her birthday this is what I saw. She had a handful of balloons, treats and presents! I'm glad she's loved and I'm glad she's mine forever!!!

To SLR or not...

2010-05-10T07:05:00.001-07:00

I have been debating for a long time what kind of camera should I get to replace the one I dropped? I LOVED the camera that I had, it was a Panasonic Lumix. It was more camera than I needed. I'm a point and shoot kind of gal...I appreciate good photos, but liked the compact camera that fit nicely in my purse or pocket. I wasn't trying to win any awards with my photos, they just go in a file on my computer...maybe someday they will end up in a scrapbook. I love real life shots and occasionally like to post pics on my blog or FB. My camera broke, luckily my husband bought the warranty so I did get to replace it. It was a fairly nice camera, not a $700 DSLR camera but a nice camera...what would I replace it with? I could've gone with replacing it with the another Lumix, or I could go a different route...decisions, decisions! I took several online quizzes with a variation of titles like, what kind of camera should I get? I talked to several people who have DSLR's and I just couldn't see myself enjoying one. I did a lot of research and found that the Fuji Finepix fit all of my desires in a camera. I really wanted to still have a great point and shoot, but desired to have options to change Aperture, ISO, shutter speed, optical zoom and manual focus. I think I went to every place within 50 miles of my house that sells cameras and spent too many hours online trying to decide what kind of camera to get. I decided on the Fuji Finepix S1800. It has A LOT of features that I'm still learning to use. I plan to take a class at the community college so I can learn how to better use the features that it offers. It's a GREAT point and shoot and has 18x optical zoom. I have taken several online lessons and have learned a lot so far. I am very happy! I'm still not out to win awards and just capture those great real life pictures that probably will never change. It has been fun to look at award winning pictures and know my camera has the ability to achieve that if desired. I have had so much fun picture taking and learning something new. If you're in the market for a new camera and have the means I'm completely happy with my investment and happy my husband let me get a slight upgrade!!! (love ya babe!)

I can't wait to get out and take more pics! I have to fold laundry and vacuum first!

New Pics...I'll blog later about my new toy that I LOVE!!!

2010-05-04T10:28:00.001-07:00

My friend LIZ...

2010-04-21T15:28:00.001-07:00

Back in the day...gotta love the hair!!!

Over spring break my good friend LIZ LIDDLE now Liz Liddle Briscoe happened to be in town with her family. Her husband works for Ebay and the family tagged along for the trip. Through facebook she contacted me and said "let's hook up!" I was delighted that my kids would be out of school and we'd be able to visit! Jay was on a trip with my sister (more on that later) so it was the girls, myself and Wayne. For FHE we went down to San Jose and met Liz and fam for dinner! Then on Wednesday we met back up in Santa Cruz and spent the day (perfect day I might add) at the beach! All of our cute kiddos...okay Jay's not there and Gina isn't ours!

Britt brought her good friend Gina with us to Santa Cruz and we decided upon sharing all of our hayday stories that Britt was "the Liz" and Gina was "the Heidi"

Britt & Gina...so glad that my daughter has good friends!

Crazy girls on the beach! Such a fun day to people watch and share stories! Below is my favorite picture of Liz and me! Allyson assured us that she could see all of us!!! LOVE IT!

Boy banding!

I am a woman of my word...FOR BEN!!!

2010-03-31T14:10:00.001-07:00

I love all of my brothers...I have FIVE!!! In my previous post about my DAD I posted a picture of all the boys at the MTC minus BEN! Ben was on his mission in Ecuador. Ben razed me a little about my wording and so I promised him my next post would be all about him! I have a TON of pictures of Ben and his cute wife Ashlee, but decided to really make this one all about Ben. I did include a few of Ash! Below is my favorite picture from their wedding. All the guests had left and they sat down and watched their wedding video! I love this picture! Below is Ben with my kiddos at the Oakland Temple. Ben came to town for Little Ben's baptism!(my nephew) Ally has always adored her Uncle Ben. Ben is a fabulous Uncle and I think most of the nieces and nephews would say he's their favorite!!!(I'm just sayin'!!!)

Below is a picture of me with Ben at a Kearl Thanksgiving. I had moved to Oregon and this was my first trip back to Utah! Isn't he soo cute! (I know how he loves the word cute!)

Below is Ben and Ash with the kiddos. This was the day we were moving to Oregon and they had recently bought this house so, we went to see it! Ally was only a few weeks old!

I couldn't do a post and not include this picture of Ben and Chuck!!! True Pimp Daddies!!!

Below is a picture that was taken the day Ben returned home from his mission. It happened to be on Halloween so we all dressed up and headed for the airport (pre 911 days!) Ben will always be Superman!

I know the pics are a little out of order (they went in backwards of what I wanted) I loved both of these pictures so I posted the whole scrapbook page. They are of Ben at the MTC and at his getting made an Elder! Britt too has always loved her Uncle Ben, she changed a lot while he was on his mission. Jay was born while Ben was on his mission! I did try to keep Ben in the know while he was on his mission. Besides my Dad I think I wrote Ben the most (yes, I'm tooting my own horn!) I love my letters from Ben, I have a box full and I read them a lot! I actually carry one of them in my scriptures and read it almost every Sunday! (AWWW)

this Superman picture hangs on my family room wall! I triple love it!

This was taken two days after Britt was born. Not much is cuter than highschool boys adoring a little new born niece!!! I love it!

Ben, I hope you know that I adore you! I have so many fun pictures of you. I have to admit I was a little lazy and didn't go to the garage to pull out the pics I have with you and SALLY...maybe another post!

For Dad...

2010-03-01T14:13:00.000-08:00

Since February 17th I have been feeling very guilty...February 17th is my Dad's birthday, and I didn't send him anything- not even a card!!! I could make an argument that I was REALLY busy with a bunch of different things, but the truth is there's no excuse!!! I did call and talk to him and wished him a happy day (that makes me feel a little less guilty) To add insult to injury, my Dad called me from Idaho and told me that he bought my birthday present...HELLO, my birthday isn't til July! I couldn't come up with the perfect thing to send to him. I know he would appreciate anything...but, I like it to be special and I was coming up empty. As the days have turned into weeks, I finally decided to make a post dedicated to my DAD. He continues to be a huge influence for good in my life and the lives of my children. So happy belated birthday Dad! I love you!At the end of January my parents came to town and took all of my siblings that live here in Cali to the musical Fiddler on the Roof. It was such a fun adventure. This was my Dad's birthday gift from my Mom. (just to add to my guilt, if I had really been on top of things I would've given him a gift while he was in town) My parents spent a couple of nights here in Pleasanton. It was fun to hang out with just my Mom and Dad. The kids would go off to school, Wayne went to work and we played all day--starting off with breakfast on Main Street. We discovered a fun fabric store in San Jose and went shopping at the Great Mall. The day spent in San Francisco was a lot of fun. It was fun to spend an evening with my parents and all the adults. Bethany and Britt were back at my house watching the younger cousins.

I spent a lot of time going through my scrapbooks and picking out some of my favorite pictures of my Dad. I decided to scan the ones that mean a lot to me and at the same time show what an influence he has been in my life. I am a firm believer that every little girl should believe that her daddy can do anything...I am lucky enough to have a dad who CAN do anything!!! I credit both of my parents for my love of music. There was always music in our home. While my mom saw to it that I learned how to sew, my Dad was my teacher. I know that probably sounds backwards, but my mom will be the first to admit she doesn't sew--my Dad does and is AMAZING!!! While I'm no where near as talented as he is he has taught me a lot of tricks to save fabric, how to finish a garment. This may sound weird but he also taught me to IRON every garment!!! It makes such a difference on the finished product! Dad has made numerous things for me and my daughters. I love that my girls can answer the question "who made your dress?" with a very proud "MY GRANDPA DID!!!" That response always gets fun looks and more questions! Below is a picture of my Dad with Ally on her blessing day...he made her dress! Isn't it the sweetest picture?!?

Below is a picture of my Dad at Pigeon Point. I credit my love of photography to my Dad. He's always had great cameras...one thing that differs from my picture taking and Dad's is I like to include people in my pictures. Dad always had amazing pictures of scenery...no people! I always try to capture both!!!

For as long as I can remember, my Dad has loved scouting! I learned from both of my parents to support my spouse in whatever he loves. (mine happens to love fixing things!) My Dad always helped my mom and my mom did the same with my dad! One thing that has always stuck with me, for whatever reason is my Mom needed a Heart shaped cookie cutter and couldn't find one or didn't like the ones she found and my dad turned a tuna can into the perfect heart cookie cutter. (I told you he CAN do anything!!!) Below is a picture of my parents at a WOODBADGE event (I think) nonetheless it's a scouting event! I think it shows how much my dad loves scouts...he's in a kilt!!!

ONE OF MY ALL TIME FAVORITE PICS...My dad with Jay on the day Jay was ordained a Deacon!

Below is my Dad with all of his boys (minus Ben who was still on his mission!)...L-R Wayne, Matt, Andy, DAD, Tyler and Jon. These six men all served missions! Tyler is the baby and we were all able to be at the MTC to wish him well. (I'm glad we got to do this...I know families don't get that experience nowadays!)

Scouting turns 100...my Dad sat down with all these guys and gave them a collectors patch honoring the 100 years. He talked to all of them about the many celebrations that will take place this year!

Below is Dad walking with Jay. My dad was making a training video for his job in scouting and he had his sons and grandsons dress in uniform to capture some fun pics. I should mention that I got dressed up in my uniform for this day of pics too...that's right, I have a scouting uniform! I was the Bear leader for a few years. Now that I'm the Primary President I'm thrown back into the cub program again!!!

My dad is always adventurous! I wish I had a picture of me with my Dad at Lagoon...he always made us go on Colossus. I don't even think my dad likes roller coasters! Below he is with Jay again! This was our adventure after our day of scout pictures!

Dad at Temple Square...I don't know what he's doing in this picture, but I'm sure it was some sort of history lesson for the Grandkids...you can see at the bottom right hand side Jay & Britt listening!

Below is another of my favorite pictures... it will be included in Britt's wedding video! My dad made the flower girl dresses for the granddaughters at Tyler & Ann's wedding. I love that my dad has a pin in his mouth and is altering the dress to fit Britt perfectly!

This is a picture of Bella's blessing day. Pa Bob was busy sewing dresses for all of these girls. He made Bethy and Britt similar dresses and he made Bella look like the princess that she is! Pa Bob often makes everyone of the granddaughters dresses for whatever event is being celebrated. Ally loves the dress that he made her for her birthday it came with a homemade doll in a matching dress!!!

Dad rockin' out on ROCKBAND! My dad actually plays the real guitar...I wish I had learned that skill from him! (I was too lazy I'm sure!)

My dad loves gardening! Ally loves to go to Pa Bob's and water all the flowers! My Dad has an amazing garden. I have learned some techniques from my Dad in this area but, haven't come close to mastering the juggling of my time to even get to my yard! Wayne and I do always have a garden, and I give full credit to my Dad for that desire. I even can things in the summer!

Below is Dad helping Ally across a pond at Donut Falls. My family always went on day hikes and I love doing that with my kids! A few summers ago my dad came with me and the kids on a hike that I loved doing as a kid!

Sharp shooting grandpa!!! Pa Bob showing off his shooting skills...he didn't miss a thing! Jay was quite impressed and still brags about it!

Adventures with Pa Bob and Susie are always fun and looked forward to by everyone!

I have selfishly posted this post to ease my guilty feelings... MY TRUE DESIRE is hoping it's something my Dad will appreciate. He's one of those guys who doesn't need anything or buys what he needs or wants himself...hence my struggle to find the perfect gift!

I love you Dad and appreciate the influence you continue to have on my life!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Amelia is a MOMMY...

2010-02-03T22:04:00.000-08:00

It seemed appropriate to blog about my trip to Utah last month for Amelia's baby shower. SHE HAD HER BABY TODAY...I cried when I got the call this morning that she was in labor. I totally lost it when I got the picture text from the proud GRANDMA BARBARA!!! Poor Mikey Alt (a YM from my ward) was in the car and was a little confused as to why I was teary eyed over a picture text. Brittany explained as best she could, but I think Mikey was still perplexed! (it's obviously a girl thing!) Last month my amazing sister called me and asked if I would like to come to Utah for a day and be a surprise gift for Amelia at her baby shower...HELLO--YES!!! I was so excited, and grateful to my sister for footing the bill...FIRST CLASS too! It was a quick trip, but I was thrilled to be apart of the Kearl girl shower! THANKS ANNE! I flew in at 3:00ish and the shower was at 6 and then I flew home the next morning at 10!!! CRAZY FUN!!!

All of the Kearl girl cousins were there, but MARIA...too bad most of them had left when we got around to taking pictures! Grandma Betty was in HEAVEN! It was so fun to see everyone, I hadn't seen some of these guys since I moved away over 8 years ago! Such a fun memory made!

This is Amelia taking a picture of me...we were mocking all of the pictures being taken! (shocking I know that Millie & I were mocking!) Millie was so cute pregnant. I got a surprise in return and found out that Megan was pregnant too! I CAN'T BELIEVE THOSE BROWN GIRLS ARE MOMS!!!

After the shower, we dropped Grandma Betty off and I went in to see Grandpa...he was watching a football game and wasn't paying any attention to who came in and was talking to him. I got right in his face and said "Grandpa it's HEIDI!" He was shocked and stood and gave me a hug and a kiss...priceless! It was fun to have them show me all of their Christmas decorations. LOVE THESE GUYS!!!

This is beautiful baby ISAAC JAMES HANSEN...isn't he soo cute? So happy for Millie and TJ, they will be great parents! I can't wait to meet him in person! Lots of love to sweet Mil...triple love that girl! CONGRATS MOMMY!!!

Some of our many December happenings...

2010-01-14T10:21:00.000-08:00

I know it's the middle of January, but I haven't blogged about our December yet! I love the month of December, it's always jam packed with concerts, parties, school projects, light seeing, family stuff, decorating and trying to squeeze in all the traditions! It's crazy and I enjoy every minute of it. Our Stake holds a Youth & Bell Choir concert for the community every year...it's always amazing! I love feeling the energy of the youth and the singing, the bells, and the speakers are always great! This year Jay was one of the speakers and he was sooo cute as a little deacon among the big boys! He has awesome stage presence and he loves being in the spotlight! (he always brings a tear of joy to my eye!) I always try to get a family shot to include on the Christmas card...I neglected to send out cards this year! (just lazy...I have no good excuse)

I love Ally's face in this shot! None of the fam was into having their pictures taken! The night before the concert Britt and I went shopping hoping to find a little something for her to wear...our budget was almost nothing! We went into Macy's and were looking at the sale rack and we found this cute dress and it was only $12!!! SCORE! We both at the same time said it would be so cute with her red cardigan! She looked adorable (the youth were asked to wear black& white with red or green)

This is a picture of Britt's HS choir...there are 3 members of the church in this choir and with out consulting each other they all showed up dressed modestly with sleeves! It was my favorite part of this amazing concert to see these YW truly STAND OUT...there was a sea of shoulders and those 3 awesome young ladies stood out in a good way! It was pretty touching, being that I had recently got released from YW...I was so proud of "my girls!" What great examples they are of being a Daughter of God! (again I got a little teary eyed that night...shocking I know!!!)

This is at our Ward Christmas party. The Primary children always put on an adorable Nativity. Ally was the first voice of the Angel...you can see her on the front row on the left! She truly was an ANGEL!!!

Lots more December happenings to come...it's my goal to have them all done before February! Some of them just deserve their own posting!

Samie's baptism...

2010-01-06T12:52:00.000-08:00

This year these three beauties all made the choice to get baptized. I can't believe they're 8...Bella is actually 9 now!!! I truly can't believe it! Ally is my baby and she is hardly that...she is growing into a beautiful young lady. Ally is full of life and loves EVERYONE! Wherever we go she leaves with a new friend, having left an impression on someone. It's so fun to have her around. Ally loves school and takes her decision of baptism very seriously...some would argue that she doesn't really understand her choice, and maybe she doesn't FULLY understand the weight her decision actually carries in life--but she knows it was a life changing decision and that she takes very seriously. She reads her scriptures every night, and has started asking some serious questions. During our Sunday discussion after church she loves sharing what she learned and ALWAYS has some sort of "tricky" question for us! I love it!!! We all had a great time and were glad we were able to take part in Samie's special day!

Princess Samie...Samie's mom made her beautiful dress and Pa Bob made her fancy cloak and muff! Every little girl should feel this special at some point in their life! Ally was very excited to get a PINK MUFF for Christmas...I'll post pics later!

These last two pics are my favorites of all the pics we took that day. It's so them! It just so clearly points out what each one is thinking. (should I be concerned that my daughter seems to be the goofiest one?)

Jeffrey & Amy's Wedding

2010-01-02T16:37:00.000-08:00

We had a great time during Jeffrey & Amy's wedding. I love all the picture taking that happens. My oldest brother Andy got married at the Portland temple...I can vividly remember little Spencer and Bryan playing in the reflection pond! Lots of fun memories. Wayne's siblings! L-R John(oldest) Jeffrey(youngest) Amy, Vikki(4th child and only girl) Wayne (2nd) and Brad (3rd). It's fun to see and hang out with the Cannon bunch. We don't get to see each other very often!

Jeffrey with some of the Cannon nephews...Jay & Hayden. Vikki has 4 little guys, trying to round them up to take random pictures...IMPOSSIBLE!!!

Hallie and Ally were in Heaven carrying Amy's train around for picture taking. It was so sweet to see them take their oh so important job so seriously!!! Every little girls dream come true!

Britt caught the wedding bouquet! She was pretty excited...Ally was NOT!!!

Ally and Parker enjoying a dance! How cute are they?!?!

The Cannon gang waiting for the bride & groom to come out after their sealing!

Wayne & Ally enjoy a daddy daughter dance! (my favorite)

Amy & Jeffrey...beautiful couple!

John & Kim's family! They also announced this weekend that they will be having another baby...wish I were too!!! CONGRATS--since this weekend we have learned they will be having another girl!

Stephen & Vikki's cute family of testosterone...love hangin' with these guys!!!

This is my favorite picture of all the wedding pics! It's so Jeffrey & Amy...neither one of them enjoys being the center of attention!!! It's perfect!

Cannon Cousins...if you often read my blog you know my thoughts on cousins. Love the relationship each one has with each other. Lots of inside jokes and lots of new memories always being made! Cousins Rock!!!

All of the Cannon Cousins...L-R Hallie, Ally, Brittany, Jay, Hayden, Annie, Mitchell, Paxton, Parker and Cooper!(one more to arrive sometime in May)

My cute family!

Wedding Cake...we had a great time at the Temple and at the Reception. I didn't post a picture of this, but there was a room set up with an Xbox and that's where most of the boy cousins spent most of the evening (BRILLIANT!) Jeffrey and Amy went off to Canada for the honeymoon! Fun memories made. We love Amy and look forward to making more memories with her!!!

Thanksgiving fun

2009-12-03T12:25:00.000-08:00

Our trip to Oregon was so much fun. I know I say this every time my kids get with their cousins, but I LOVE COUSINS!!! There isn't ever an awkward moment, they pick up where they left off...it's so fun to sit and watch! I don't know why I'm always fascinated by it, because I'm that way with my cousins! Ally, Annie & Hallie were probably my favorite to watch. Parker was in that mix too! On the night before Jeff & Amy's wedding (which will have it's own posting soon!) all of the adults went to Stanford's for dinner. Britt & Hayden were left to watch all the grand kids at Vikki's new house. We didn't get a phone call and that told us that things were all good! When we came home, everyone was happy and busy playing games! I love it!

The grand kids all enjoying their pizza...waiting for all of the adults to leave!!!

This is Vikki's son Paxton...it was the first time we got to see him! He is a happy guy, who looks just like his daddy! Jay met him in October, but for the rest of us this was a first!!!

On Thanksgiving day Jon & Kim gave Jeff & Amy their own LEVI QUILT...that's what Kim does!!! It was fun to be there and watch them open and notice all the personalized stuff on the quilt. Jon & Kim also announced that they are going to have baby #4...YAY!!! I'm a little envious, and they are in SHOCK!!!

Ally & Hallie...yes I get them mixed up a lot!

The gang hangin' at Vikki's...below you can see that Vikki was giving us a RECORDER performance of Chariots of Fire...she has serious skills!!!Below are some of my favorite pictures of the three little blonde's...ALLY, HALLIE & ANNIE

The Modjeski boys wrestling with Jay...I wish I had sound bites of the Dads & Grandpa Mike yelling out technique pointers to help each person gain ground! I think in the end size is what really mattered...although little Cooper took big Jay down!!!

Hula Hoop game with Gramma Jackie...everyone stands in a circle and you have to pass the Hula Hoop to each person while all hands are linked. It was really fun!

Ally showing off her Hula Hooping skills...she got 3 going! This picture makes it look like they all are about to fall, but she was able to get them all in sink and keep them all going! I've seen her do this a million times and it still is mind boggling!

Ally writing her letter to Santa! She really just wanted to sit at the fancy desk in the fancy chair!

Parker and Ally enjoying spaghettio's and mini bagels!!!

Gramma Jackie made I think close to a million rolls for Thanksgiving dinner! I might have eaten half of them ;)

The kids table...everyone was in heaven!

Those cutie girls!!! We had such a fun week. Lots of late nights and games and chatting! Vikki and I went to New Moon with Britt and we all wished we had stayed home. I was surprised at how disappointing it was! (I know not everyone feels that way) I hope Eclipse is better!!!

More catching up...

2009-11-30T13:52:00.000-08:00

Ally was in her school play...Vacation to Mars. She was one of Saturn's moons. She was of course adorable. I love that all of my kids have had the opportunity and the desire to be in the school musicals.

Britt had YW in Excellence... A Journey of Discovery. It was a fun filled night, with great food and decorations. I was a little sad, because I was just a parent (not a YW leader)...okay I was sad until it sunk in that I didn't have to set up or clean up!!!

I thought these chair coverings were adorable. They just put fun tissue paper over the chair and then tied it with raffia...who'da thunk!?!?

Gratitude Box...

2009-11-05T14:04:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday a good friend of mine from our ward, taught the lesson in Relief Society. No surprise comes from the fact that it was on gratitude. I haven't been to RS in awhile because I've been in Young Women...it was so nice to be able to sit and enjoy being taught. Sister Lerch gave a great lesson and some great pointers on how to become a person of gratitude. I came home and turned an old tissue box into a "GRATITUDE" box...I cut out strips of paper and encouraged my family to "count our many blessings...name them one by one"...the idea for the box is when you think of something (anything) that you are grateful for to write it down and put it in the box, then on Thanksgiving we will read all that we are grateful for. One of the lines in the Hymn "Count Your Blessings" is "and it will SURPRISE you what the Lord has done"...I must admit I am a little surprised at how full our "gratitude box" is.

A little catching up...okay A LOT!!!

2009-10-31T15:40:00.001-07:00

So a lot has been going on around here...I'm too lazy to blog about everything. Here are some of the highlights since I last posted Ally at her school Halloween parade

Britt as Alice in Wonderland for the youth dance...I made her costume (without a pattern thank you very much!)

Jay as a "big baby" helping out at one of the carnival booths at our Stake Trunk or Treat

Britt and buddies going to the inter-stake youth dance...Britt went for comfort and wore purple scrubs!

Ally at the Trunk-or-Treat...isn't she the cutest cat ever?!?!

Ally posing at our Ward Temple day

Oakland Temple

Some of the kids at Ward Temple Day...love this day!

Rachel's baptism...Ally and Rachel have the same birthday, but got baptized a month apart!

3rd grade Hula hoop champ

Wayne playing pick a boo...eating dinner at Wendy's on the way to drop Jay off at the airport

Jay hanging at the airport while waiting for his delayed flight to Oregon!

Stake Volleyball night...one of my last activities as a YW leader...sniff, sniff

P1 friends at Time Out For Women...we were lucky enough to have it right here in Pleasanton!

Lisa and me at TOFW...what a fun filled 2 day event that included a mom sleepover!

Britt and her AMAZING choir at Amador! I'll try and post a video of them singing the National Anthem at back to school night.

That's it for now. I have a bunch of stuff to post and of course I have LOTS of cute pics too!

My boy is growing up...

2009-09-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

On the same weekend that Ally got baptized Jay was ordained a Deacon in the Aaronic Priesthood. This was a very emotional weekend for me. As I listened and watched Wayne confirm Ally and then an hour later confer the priesthood upon Jay (all thru lots of happy tears) I was struck at how overwhelmed Wayne must have been feeling...that was a lot!!! I am so happy to be married to an amazing husband, father and most importantly (I think) a worthy priesthood holder. I have a lot of friends whose husbands haven't been able to perform these stepping stones in the gospel and I know that it's a HUGE blessing to have Wayne be who he is! I used to be able to re-arrange my photos...for whatever reason blogspot isn't allowing me to do it anymore. I'll have to start paying attention to how I upload them from now on. These photos of the grandparents playing Rock Band are some of my favorites. This was after church on Sunday when everyone was hanging out. The photo of my mom is probably my favorite 'cause she's "really" smiling! I love it!

The above photo is of Jay & Ally on the day of their interviews with the Bishop. Ally got her recommend to be baptized and Jay was supposed to have his Deacon interview, but when we got in it had been postponed...(probably because the next week we got a new Bishop)

This is a photo of Jay at his Priesthood Preview...Brother Thalman used to be over the Deacons, but since the new Bishop Brother Thalman is now the YM President

This is Jay at a Stake service project. Jay is such a hard worker, and always the first to offer help. Jay is amazing (and I'm not just saying that because I'm his mom)...I think a lot of times kids are misunderstood by those that aren't always around, and Jay is for sure one of those kids. He is a deep thinker, works hard at school, loved by everyone in our stake kind of guy!!! (especially primary kids) As a mother I couldn't ask for a better son.

3 generations of Cannons...what a sharp looking kid! The following week Jay got to pass the sacrament for the first time. I can not tell you how I felt watching him do this. So many people complimented him on what a sharp job he did. (everyone was eagerly watching him) He was the ONLY boy in a suit. Everyone else just wears slacks and a shirt...not my Jay!!! Yesterday Jay gave his first talk in Sacrament meeting. When he was preparing his talk he asked "how old do you have to be to give a 15 minute talk?" He wanted more than his 5 minutes he was allotted!!! Of course he did an amazing job!

Pa Bob and Jay! I like that they are matching! This was such a fun day. I still have so many photos from this weekend. Someday I will get them all blogged! I am very grateful to all of those who came and were able to be apart of this big weekend! Family support is so important and I'm grateful that I got so much of it!

Ally's Baptism...I still can't believe it

2009-09-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

This is Ally on her blessing day with Pa Bob...he made her blessing dress. Of course he made her TWO dresses for her baptism. I look at her so tiny and I still think of her this way. I can hardly believe she's baptized. She is such a fun, happy, spirited girl. She has a very sweet little testimony. She reads her scriptures every night and prays before she goes to sleep.

this picture is goofy of everyone and Jay is missing, but it's sooo cute of ALLY I couldn't resist posting it. (this is her true personality shining through)

Could this picture be any sweeter? I'm not sure which one adores the other more...they love each other so much!!!

My cute little family...I can't believe they're all so big! When did that happen?

During this picture Ally was making sure that I knew she didn't want any lipstick on her white outfit (cause I was planning on kissing her outfit...weirdo!)

this was right after she got dressed...Anna and Bella came into the changing room. It was fun to have them in there while Ally got ready!

The Sorensen Triplet Cousins... Bella & Ally down Samie to go. Samie will get baptized in December. 3 in one year...whew!

TA DA!!! Ally was so excited finally be baptized like Bella. I love that they both are wearing their baptism dresses that Pa Bob made. Not many little girls in the world can say they have dresses made by their Grandpa. What a special treat!!!

Sorensen Girls go WICKED...

2009-09-01T11:52:00.000-07:00

This past weekend all the Sorensen Girls went to see WICKED at the Orpheum Theater in San Francisco ... Anne has a whole agenda of things to do before she turns 40 (which is next year...as a sister I have to put that info out there) She can check this "to do" off her list. That morning everyone was flying in at different times and Melanie & Emily were driving from Marysville area...I was able to attend The Baeza Family Sealing that morning, and it was truly an awesome privilege to be there. After Wayne and I got back from the Temple, he promptly left for work and I waited for Mel & Em to come so we could all ride the BART into town together. (FYI they stopped and got In-N-Out without me...I'm just sayin')

Once we all got to the hotel we gave Anne a present that Ashlee had picked out as a great big THANK YOU...not that we could ever say a big enough thank you, but we all know how Anne loves jewelry. I think Anne was truly surprised :)I made the ladies all walk to FLAX...sadly I think they were less than impressed, but it could've been because it was quite literally ONE MILLION degrees in there...UGH!!! Below I caught them all hanging out in the KIDDIE section coloring on the table!!! Above my Mom is showing off her "high heel wearing" skills. Below everyone is mocking my "constant picture taking" skills...I did take a picture of everyone getting off the elevator too, but didn't see the need to post it!

I loved seeing my Mom take a lot of pictures. She's always said she just needs a camera of her own and she finally has one.After our thoroughly exciting trip to FLAX we went out to dinner and then headed back up to our room to get all fancy for our show. Our hotel was right across from the Orpeum, which is the ONLY reason I brought my fancy RED SHOES Everyone looked great. I have been dying to see this play for years, but really dying since Britt saw it a few months ago and couldn't stop telling me how amazing it was. She was right...I loved, loved, loved it. I want to go again with my whole family!!!
These are the 3 original Sorensen girls...I have 5 brothers and only 1 sister. My mom told me my whole life that someday I will have more sisters (cause I always felt jipped that I only had 1...although my 1 sister is amazing I always wanted more)

For those of you that don't already know these fabulous ladies I'll label them below

Melanie (Andy's wife) ME, Annie (Ty's wife) ANNE, MOM, Emily (Jon's wife) Ashlee (Ben's wife)
Before the show we had gone to Walgreens and each picked out a goody to munch on after the show. We stayed up late snacking, talking and of course lots of LAUGHING!!!

Too bad Britt wasn't with us...she would've been more keen on the idea of shopping in FOREVER 21 with Ash than the others were. Ash was very excited to finally see the 3 story store I had been telling her about!!! Everyone was patient and Ash did get to spend some time in there...she even purchased a few items. (you'll just have to come back and do more shopping Ash!) As we were making our way to China Town...the desired destination of most of the out of towners...we saw this man being taken away. I don't know what he did, but I yeilded to all the mocking of my picture taking and snapped a photo!!!

While we were in China Town, Anne (my sister) had these WICKED bracelets made for all of us, so that we would have a memento to remember our fun weekend. I don't think I mentioned above anywhere, that my sister not only had the great idea for the WILD & WICKED WEEKEND (as she so titled it) but, she also bankrolled the whole trip. She is amazing and thoughtful and we are all lucky to have her!!! THANKS AGAIN

I love Girls Camp...

2009-07-31T20:47:00.001-07:00

Wayne saying goodbye...he always does a great job holding down the fort for a full week!!! He also carries and loads EVERYTHING for me (and I take a bunch of shtuff)

AWWW...Britt came up to the YCL rock and hung out while I got pictures of all my girls! Britt is so fun to have around!

When you get a package sent to you at camp you have to sing to receive it...The P4 MIAMAIDS received a package and they all sang I'm a little teapot. It was adorable and everyone cheered!!!My 2009 YCL group...all of our hard work since January payed off at camp...we had a great theme, the T-shirts were adorable and the girls had great devotionals every night. It's so fun to work with the youth leaders and their desire to make it fun for all the girls. It's fun to see them develop their leadership skills. What a privilege to be called as their leader!!!

P4 3rd years get a package...blowing a kiss to their friend who didn't come to camp and still thought of them. FRIENDS are AWESOME!!!3rd year girls getting ready to go on their overnight backpacking adventure...this is Britt's group of girls in our Stake and they are all as fun as she is...she is lucky to have such a great group of church friends!!!
Can we go already?

THEIR BACK... I was down in the local town with a 2nd year who needed stitches so I didn't get to be in camp when Britt came back (duty calls and I was a stake leader) She had a great time and I made sure those who were in camp got some pictures for me.

Group picture...Brittany and Holly always seemed to know when I was taking a picture and they always posed for me (even when I didn't know)...they are in the middle giving me the 3rd year sign!!!
Britt breaking all the rules and jumping off the YCL rock as a 3rd year...her YCL's invited her so I guess it's not that bad!!!

I love the look on Britt's face and on Holly's...the girl they are talking to is a little annoying and their faces show their dis-interest in what said girl is saying...I love it!!!I love that the Brethren in our stake have such a big part in our camp...they always have so much fun...in the above shot they are throwing water on Brother Schuler who was in charge of our MANDATORY firedrill...after Schuler's speech some of the Brethren came running out yelling FIRE! FIRE! and threw pitchers of water on Brother Schuler...of course the girls thought this was great! Below is the Brethren singing "the Brethren Can" (tune of Candyman) to our Stake Camp Director Vicki Larson...so fun!!! What a fun bunch of worthy priesthood holders!!!

This is one of my YCL's who happens to also be in my ward...she's jumping off the YCL rock while high fiving her dad!!!

Britt & Holly...nothing like a good friend!
Another YCL..."fake" jumping with Brother Berckmoes who is the high counselor over the YW and Bishop Daniels of the 4th ward...a lot of these brethren have been coming to camp for years and have a great relationship with the girls!!!

Britt and Kadi squishing Holly...I don't remember why, but I love seeing Britt interact with her friends!
Thursday night banquet...always emotional. My YCL's get their camp names, then sing Walk Tall and then pass the torch to the incoming YCL girls...I cry every year!!! What an awesome tradition!

One of the privileges of being a YCL is you get to go NIGHT RAPPELLING...we were up until about 1am. This is a fun bunch of girls and I will miss working with them every month! Thank goodness for Facebook!!!

Summer fun...

2009-07-16T15:45:00.000-07:00

July has been a lot of fun!!! The kids have been going, going GOING!!! (I love every minute of it) Ally and Bella on the big cement slide...always a guest favorite

Jay dancing during the fireworks on the 4th!!!

Some of the YW during our pre-camp hike

Britt--so many boys so little time!!! She TRIPLE loved EFY!!!

I love that Britt takes her piture taking so seriously...she brought home some great shots from Utah!!! (of course I love it)

Girls waiting to go to the airport...I think they each had been packed and ready for a week.

EFY bound...they also got to play with Anne and Grandma & Grandpa...they had a great time. Be sure to check Britt's blog--she'll go into more detail!!! (give her a couple of weeks we leave for girls camp in a few days)

Ally and Bella loved spending a couple days together.

I LOVE SUMMER!!! I'm leaving for girls camp in 2 more days...I love working with the YCL's and seeing all of their hard work through out the whole year finally get to play out!!! (of course I'd love going to girls camp no matter what I do)

I love summertime...

2009-07-07T15:51:00.001-07:00

I love the lazy days of summer. I love being able to drop whatever and go to the beach or go to the pool. I love not having to worry about bedtime (although I do like them to go to bed at some point) Last Monday night Mel called up to see if they could come over a day earlier than planned...OF COURSE!!! My kids were so excited. On Tuesday we drove to SEACLIFF Beach in Santa Cruz. I had never been to this beach, it had lots of good things but the sand was really rough and it made boogie boarding not so enjoyable. It did have a big pier and a shipwrecked boat. The kids had fun just being together. I am always blown away at how big everyone is!!!

We tried getting the perfect picture, but it never seemed to work. Nick was always ahead or just a really fast jumper!!! We took one of the best pics and framed it for my Mom's birthday.

Ally and Bella...we swapped kids for a few days. Bella stayed with me and Jay went home with Mel.

Britt and Beth went to Utah to hang out with Grandma Susie, Pa Bob and Aunt Anne. They are also going to EFY...they will be gone for 10 days. (really too long for my liking, but what do you do?)

15 years...and still going strong

2009-07-02T11:55:00.001-07:00

Last night I asked Wayne if he had any idea on the day that we got married that we'd still be sooo happy 15 years later? His reply was "a groom always hopes" He then turned and asked me if I had any idea that I would love him more than I did the day of our wedding...I didn't, I thought we were sooo in love that day (as we were) but add 15 years of overcoming struggles, achieving so many accomplishments and being parents together...that adds up to a LOT of LOVE!!! Here are a few of my favorite wedding photos. We were married in the afternoon, and as we came out of the Temple it was windy...I loved it! I think it made for some cool shots! I remember at the end of the evening my jaw hurt from smiling so much!!! It was the perfect day!!!

The Sorensen's

The Cannon's

I love how everyone has changed so much! People change a LOT in 15 years!!! (Tyler would still wear RED SOCKS and I love it!!!)

More summer fun...

2009-06-24T19:39:00.000-07:00

Jay is done with Elementary...but apparently not the ER

2009-06-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

I am still in shock!!! This picture is of Jay on his first day of school. He is waiting for the bus. He was so excited to finally be going to school. He loved Kindergarten and he loved riding the bus everyday. The bus actually brought him all the way to our driveway to drop him off. It was fun to hear the bus and run out to meet him. Somedays it seems like that was forever ago, today it seems like yesterday!!!This is Jay on his last day of Elementary. He is equally excited to start Middle School as he was to start Kindergarten. As much as I don't like to admit it...he really is ready to move on. He's been that way since about December. He got so bored with 5th grade. I'm excited to see him continue to grow into a fine young man. He will be getting the Priesthood this year. I'm amazed at what a sharp kid he is and the responsibility he sees within himself to take. I am truly blessed with a great kid!!! YES, another trip to the ER...we're now on a first named basis with the nurses!!! I ran over Jay's toe with a shopping cart and it turned in to this awful injury! (I feel horrible...he shouldn't put his toes in my way though) The doctor gave us an antibiotic and sent us to a specialist. Jay went swimming before we saw the specialist and the antibiotic had kicked in and it looked a million times better. The doctor told us to keep soaking it and bandage it if wearing close toed shoes.

These pictures are for Uncle Ben...I am a crazy Mom who always has her camera. Jay is just acting like he's in a lot of pain. Actually, he was in a lot of pain, but nothing is happening here...he's just playing to the camera!!!

Sadly my camera batteries were almost dead and I didn't get a great picture of the toe!!! It's been a week and we haven't gone to the ER. Let's hope we're done for awhile!!!

Britt Promotion fun...

2009-06-12T08:44:00.000-07:00

Britt is officially done with middle school... I can't believe how fast it went. I can so vividly remember her first day at HPMS. She looked so little compared to the big 8th graders...now she's a 9th grader. My advice to all you young mothers out there (I'm finally admitting that group no longer includes me) is to truly enjoy each moment. Your kids will be going into HS before you know it. Someone gave me that advice at one of Britt's baby showers, and I thought they were "oh so sentimental and a little crazy"...now here I am facing the reality that my once a baby is now in HS.Britt and some of her good friends met over at Gina's house. I was upstairs on make-up and hair duty and Gina's mom was fixing dinner downstairs. Gina's sister was also working on hair duty. Ally had a friend over and they loved dipping their feet in the pool and watching all the big girls in their moment of excitement. It was soo fun!!!
Britt is talking to Wayne...who was at work but still wanted to be part of the moment. Britt found out she didn't like having long nails because she couldn't TEXT...such dreadfullness!!!
Britt and Gina

this is Britt's face that lets me know I've officially taken enough photos...she gets a little giddy and yells "is this face good?" or a big goofy "CHHEEESSEE"...at this point I just want to take more pictures because then the "real" Britt comes out!!!
This was the Last day of school...they had a promotion ceremony which was very crowded and Britt looked like a needle in a haystack. Most of the kids from our ward had made plans to meet at the flagpole for pictures

Sadly, I never got a great "jumping" picture.

HPMS Angels... what a fun group of kids!!! Mikey and Brad have pretty good odds at getting dates in a few more years!!!

Playing catch-up (the story of my life)

2009-06-09T16:51:00.001-07:00

Baby Alice...isn't she so yummy? This is the baby of a good friend of ours in the ward, Rebecca. Her family was out of town over Memorial Day, so she and Alice came over for Sunday dinner. Of course we were all in heaven. (Alice doesn't help much with my baby hunger)We put Alice in our big bean bag chair...isn't she such a cutie? Can you tell Britt adores her too? Ally gives us a tour of her classroom and shows off some of her work and favorite spots at school...

This is the garden of flowers outside her classroom...she's such a little ham

We love our Ally!!!

Britt with an injured back was of course saddened that she didn't get to show off her amazing hula hoop skills, but thrilled that she got to do her "Bad Idea Bear" part. (It's from the play Avenue Q, if you're familiar with this play they made a G rated version for the middle school)

I seem to have lucked out with Britt...she has the best group of friends. Of course there's always drama...(put more than 2 teenagers together and there's drama)but on the whole they really are all great!

Sometimes I think...am I just prejudiced, or is my family really that cute?

Jay is getting way too into the overnight hiking (in his moms opinion he's enjoying being away far to much)... he really loves it so I guess I'll have to learn to!!! Below is Jay's final trombone performance in elementary! He found the perfect instrument for his personality!!!

Jon and Emily came for an overnighter at our house. They had never gone to Crissy Field with us, so that was the destination. It wasn't fabulous weather, but it wasn't freezing or raining so I can't complain.

Everybody had a great time. Even my kids who've been here nearly a thousand times. I loved watching Jay interact with Brynnlee...he was in heaven!!!

I've said it before and I'll most likely say it again...I LOVE COUSINS! Truly friends forever!!!

There's a little bit of a catch up post. Sad thing is, is that soo much has happened that I'm behind again. Ughh. Good thing it's SUMMER!!!

Exam Room 16...

2009-06-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

During the last week of May we made two trips to the ER... both times we ended up in Exam Room 16. Jay got Poison Oak from where is still a mystery. He was pretty miserable. This was on the same Friday night that Jon and Emily came to visit. Wayne stayed and played host to our visitors. I think they played FARKLE...after Jon put in our new garage door opener (which we love)

Britt slipped a disc in her back and was in a lot of pain...you can tell in the picture she'd been crying. I hate when my kids are in pain and I can't help them. Britt was cute and said to me as she was crying..."can't you just kiss it and make it better" As sweet as that was I felt worse knowing that my kiss wasn't magic. (I kissed her anyway)

Everyone seems to be on the mend...let's hope it stays that way!

Check out Ally's blog for more...

2009-05-13T13:07:00.000-07:00

All of the 2nd graders at Walnut Grove did a fabulous production last night. It was so fun to see all of their hard work pay off. The whole program was so great. We borrowed Ally's outfit from our neighbor who just happens to be from India. (gotta love that) They were more than willing to let Ally borrow Nintya's outfit. Right down to the bindi!!! Click on Ally's picture on the left to visit her website, or go to ... allybuggers.blogspot.com