Sowells

"My Baby"

2012-01-22T16:05:00.001-08:00

I am fearful for our new baby girl. Violette is so excited I'm afraid she is going to smother her. Constantly all day long she says, "Mommy you have a baby in your belly? Where's her shirt? My baby like this. My baby want to eat this." The baby in my belly is no longer my baby but Violette's baby. Violette watched the entire 20 minute dvd of the ultra sound and kept asking where her shirt was, and it still baffles her that she doesn't have a shirt on. After watching the video she asked if she could feed the baby, and we had to explain that the baby eats what I eat. Violette will bring me food all day long saying, "My baby wants to eat this." Usually it's candy. The other day she brought me candy even before breakfast saying My baby wants to eat this, and when I told her that her baby sister doesn't eat treats before lunch she said, "yes she does". Violette is also concerned that her baby sister is bored. She'll hand me toys and tell me, "My baby wants to play with this, " and then she'll set it on my tummy. The other day she brought me a candle stick holder for her sister to play with. She also wants to kiss her baby sister all the time.
If she is this infatuated with her sister now, what is it
going to be like when she can actually see and touch her sister?

I'm scared.

Happy Birthday Penelepe

2012-01-15T15:38:00.000-08:00

Penelepe loves ice cream so we had loaded ice cream sundays for her party.

I forgot my camera for the party. What kind of mother am I? Luckily Aunt Lindsay remebered hers! Thanks!

She finally lost her front tooth that held on by a tiny thread for weeks. It was so ugly! We tried everything to get her to pull it, but she waited patiently for it to fall out by itself. I love her toothless grin.

Her loves (in no particular order): PINK, drawing/coloring, writing love notes to her Mom and Dad, makeup, friends, pizza, guacamole, and chips and salsa. When Oliver and her Dad are gone she asks about every 15 minutes how much longer until they get home.

This past week she has been super sick with a high fever and horrible cough. She hasn't slept very well and she has been so emotional. One afternoon she started crying for no reason and I asked her why she was crying and in between sobs she said, "I really miss Lorenzo".

Soon to be Released.....

2012-01-01T18:55:00.000-08:00

Coming this May a new chic flick full of drama. Violette gives two thumbs up. Penelepe says, "this may be the best one yet". "It's another one!" Oliver raves. It promises to be an unpredictable family fun adventure.
Produced by Deseree' and Ryan

Baby Girl

rated G for everyone

The Wicked Winds of the East

2012-01-01T17:53:00.000-08:00

The Hurricane in early Dec., I mean wind storm was crazy! We thought we were emergency prepared, but after this we realized we have a lot to work on. We were cold, no power, and it's hard to cook with out electricity. We took the easy way out and went to Ezra and Ashley's to get warm. Thanks!!! I borrowed all of these pictures from KSL. I have been lazy lately and haven't taken many pictures. It was so sad to see all the big old trees down - seriously sad!

Church was cancelled on Sunday for the clean up. The line to the landfill was like 5 miles long. Ryan and Oliver were in that line somewhere.

Changes

2012-01-01T17:50:00.001-08:00

Ryan has been working on this room all week long. We are so excited for it to be done. All we have left is the floor! The kids helped out with the sanding.

Merry Christmas

2012-01-01T17:48:00.000-08:00

Grandma Joni and Grandpa Don gave P and V their adorable Jammie's.

Christmas never lasts long enough! The kids favorite gift was a Wii from Grandma DeEtte and Grandpa Rich. They have been playing with it almost every minute possible. Once school starts we'll have to enforce time limits.

Violette 3rd Birthday Party

2012-01-01T17:12:00.000-08:00

She had 2 joint parties this year. It has been so fun for her to live close to her cousin Sasha. They are only a few days apart for birthdays. We went to St. George for Thanksgiving and had a party at Moma and Papa Lee's.

Then another party at Sasha's a week later.

Violette is still a rat. She gets into whatever she wants - like an entire block of cheese for a snack.

Her favorite breakfast is beans and cheese. I think she may have been born in the wrong country or maybe we need to move south. She LOVES candy. Her other loves are her babies, and her ponys - which must accompany her to every bath.

Halloween 2011

2012-01-01T16:56:00.000-08:00

This may be Oliver's 3rd year as black spider man - but who's counting?

Grandma DeEtte found these cute tutu's for the girls.

We had a super fun party at Grandma DeEtte's and Grandpa Rich's house.

Grandma made each child a bag and they got to decorate them.

My puking pumpkin and mini pumpkins. I love pinterest!

Lindsay's amazing Carmel apple nachos!

Uncle Eric won the best Uncle of the night award by carving pumpkins for the kids.

Our kids have loved getting to know Bankston, Gracie, and Ellie (or Ellie Bug as Violette calls her).

For the past few years I have been the candy Nazi - this year I said whatever you want. I was really hoping they would eat it all and get sick. I found Violette hiding under the bed chowing down. Oliver and Penelepe rationed theirs for several days - Oliver's may have lasted a month. Violette's was gone in a day or so.

Crazy Hair Day

2012-01-01T16:54:00.000-08:00

It was Crazy Hair Day, not Gang Affiliation Day

Grape Harvest

2012-01-01T16:46:00.000-08:00

Have we mentioned how much we love our yard! We juiced a bunch of grapes to make some delicious grape juice.

This girl ate more than she put in the box, but that's ok.

What have we been doing the past few months?

2011-10-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

Even though time flies, the past few months felt like years to me. Ryan spent about a month and half up in the Salt Lake area while the kids and I stayed in St. George. I can honestly say I am a HORRIBLE single mother! I have a new found respect for all single mothers out there! How on earth do you do it???? It's not like I was alone either, my parents were in St. George and Uncle Chris, but I'm so glad we are a family again. We finally moved up to Bountiful the 1st of Oct. We were waiting for the house we moved in to be cleaned out. We love our new place - even though it is OLD and needs a lot of Love (and flooring, and counter tops, and new paint, and lots of other things) we love it. The yard is just as amazing and needs just as much love. But it has an apple tree, 2 peach trees (hopefully they live), an apricot tree that is half alive, raspberries - which hopefully will get better, strawberries, and grapes - both green and concord! I know right! It's our own secret garden. We have been so busy both inside and out and I am exhausted every night. The kind of exhausted that your bed looks so good and you could almost cry to get in it. We are still not completely unpacked but oh well it will get done some day, and if it doesn't - I think we'll survive. We are a little sad we couldn't stay in St. George, but Bountiful is second best and so close we could be there in a couple hours. Also I take comfort in the fact that the kids can walk to school (it's only 2 1/2 blocks away) instead of having to drive 3 round trips like I was in St. George. And honestly could we have that many fruit trees in St. George? (ok probably) but I like to think not. If anyone wants to visit us we would love it - or if you need a bomb shelter we have one!

Crawdad Canyon

2011-10-20T18:01:00.001-07:00

We had a great adventure with our old vecinos, the Felsteds, from St. George. The kids loved it, and even though it was super hot in St. George it was perfect weather in Veyo.

Every time Violette sees this picture she says gross! I must agree with her, they are ugly. The kids had so much fun catching them.

Beware of the claw...

Is there anything more fun than a river and crawdads?

She was demonstrating "how to eat them". Just like that!

Lexi must have shown Penelepe some of her rock climbing skills.

I loved both of these pictures so I had to do both of them, sorry they are basically the same.

It was amazing how fast they turned bright red.

Jeff showed us the proper way to experience a Crawdad boil. I will admit that I've never been much of a seafood lover. But I managed to open my crawdad get the yellow mustard strip thingy off and all the hard shells and claws and all the gross stuff and chew as fast as I could to get it down. The actual "meat" part wasn't that bad but getting to it was horrible. Penelepe liked them, but Oliver and Simon missed out due to the Wii. We tossed quite a few back in the river, thinking we had plenty - next time we'll keep em all. Thanks Felsteds we loved it! We miss you already!

HOt Summer hike

2011-10-20T17:49:00.000-07:00

We hiked behind Grandma DeEtte's and Grandpa Rich's house this summer. It was a good little hike.

Us girls had to take a break while the boys climbed higher. They did really good for how steep some parts were.

Snow Canyon is in the background - I love the black lava rock.

Penelepe's first day of school

2011-10-20T17:43:00.001-07:00

Kindergarten started a week later - and Penelepe was upset about it. She was bored without her brother.

Since it was a special day we let her wear her hair down.

School.....already?!

2011-08-16T11:33:00.001-07:00

I feel like we were cheated out of our summer! The kids got out of school the day we moved from NY, June 17th, and yesterday Aug. 15th was the first day of school. Less than 2 months!! Oliver was excited to go back and Penelepe was mad she couldn't go yesterday, kindergarten starts a week later. I guess as long as the kids don't mind I shouldn't either, but I do.

4th of July

2011-08-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

I am behind on my blogging. The few months have been a little crazy around here.

CR might have been the favorite Uncle over the weekend. The kids lined up to be thrown.

Penelepe would get so high! She started pushing off with her feet when CR threw her, plus it helps when you only weigh about 20 pounds.

Little teenager!

Luke made me laugh every time he got in. I thought he was drowning, but that's just the way he swims.

Piper was probably the best diver of all the kids.

Jake kills me!

And of course we had to have a pinata for the shared birthday/baptism party.

Lexi was in charge of the rope.

How many pieces of gum is that?

Thanks Jesse for all the great photos! In my dream world of all our family would live with in a couple of blocks!

The BIG Day

2011-07-10T16:02:00.000-07:00

8 is so great! Cousins Mia and Oliver were baptized on the same day. It was so fun to have so much family around. The next few post will have lots of pictures - so our siblings Rozannah, Tavi, and Scott and families can feel like they were there. We missed them!!

The three Bainter boys were also blessed on the same day. When Violette first saw the twins she said, "Baby Sister". After a few days Violette could tell you who was who, most of the time.

Apollo with his long hair.

Momma Lee with Jesse.

Rebekah with Taos or is that Jesse? Really I'm not sure on either of those pictures.

Grandpa Dwain and MJ. Somehow Grandma Linda managed to hide from the camera.

Oliver asked Chris to baptise him - thanks Chris!

The kids table - yup Lexi still has to eat at the kids table.

(Don't worry Rozannah - this is just the beginning of the pictures.)

Quick Trip to Vegas

2011-07-10T14:51:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I haven't posted this earlier, but Ryan graduated in May! I'm not sure who is happier, Ryan or me! After a week in St. George we went to Vegas for Ryan to take his board to be a Certified Social Worker. He passed! So we celebrated by seeing the Jabbawockeez. If your not sure who they are here's a little sample. I have to admit I was hoping for the Babywockee to make an appearance, even though it was 11:00 p.m. and I knew it was past her bedtime. She must have good parents because we didn't see her. Even without her it was a fun show to watch.

The Drive and a Surprise

2011-06-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

The drive from Buffalo to St. George went by surprisingly fast. We left NY at 7 pm on Friday and drove in to St. George on Monday afternoon. Thanks to 8 Redbox movies the kids did great . How about our MacGyver Dvd player. The kids had their own personal theatre.

Violette was constantly pulling out the cords,but if we threatened with no swimming at Momma and Papa Lees she would stop - usually.

The pool is as amazing as the kids remembered.

Penelepe talked about the slide the entire drive.

Now for the surprise. You know how you have things planned in life... such as, I will have my children spaced 2 years about and I will have a dozen. Really, before I was married I wanted a dozen. That quickly changed after I got married and the reality set in, but I still planned on having my kids 2 years apart. Well things happened and my kids aren't 2 years apart, and at first I was disappointed but in the end it has worked out for the best for us. Well the job we had planned on Ryan having here in St. George, and the reason we moved out here, fell through a couple days after we got here. But just as my kids aren't spaced 2 years apart it will all work out in the end.

The Final Days of Buffalo

2011-06-26T13:58:00.000-07:00

Our cute little duplex in Tonawanda.

Penelepe's Pre-K class. We loved the KenTon school district. Penelepe and Oliver had excellent teachers this year, Mrs. Krasinski and Miss LoTempio.

Whoever sent us this card - Thank you!!! - it meant so much to our family!!!

Packing up for St. George was torturous.

I'm sad a didn't get more pictures of everyone!

Lorenzo and Avery's birthday party was a hit - Literally. Their favorite game was dodge ball on the tramp. Ezra and Chris were on each side of the tramp kicking the ball at the kids - and of course the kids loved it.

The cake and everything was super cute, as usual. Leaving Rozannah and family was the hardest - I still tear up thinking about them. We miss you! Violette has asked for Solo and Baby Sister several times.

Every year for Oliver's birthday we have a pinata, well this year we ran out of time at his party. A couple of days before we left we tried to round up the neighborhood kids to play baseball pinata, but only a few could play.

Leaving Buffalo was a lot harder than I thought it would be. We loved our time there and everyone we met. We will miss how everything is so green and beautiful and green, during the summer.

Violette's first....

2011-06-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

We all had scheduled cleanings, except for Violette because I thought she was too little. Violette kept saying my turn - so she got her turn. She was a fantastic patient, Grandma Joni and Carrie would have been very pleased with her. Lynn, the dental hygienist, asked me if I wanted to take a picture and I told her I didn't have a camera - so she took one with her phone and sent it to me. I thought that was so nice of her! So if anyone is looking for a dentist in the Buffalo area (that is if you don't want to go to the many talented dentists at UB) Dr. Maggio and his staff are excellent.

Palmyra Primary Activity

2011-06-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

Our Buffalo Ward had an amazing Primary Activity in Palmyra this weekend and the kids loved it!

This is where the first copies of the Book of Mormon were published.

After the activity we visited the Sacred Grove and church history sites for the last time.

Day Camp........Finally!

2011-06-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

For the past year and a half every time a scouting activity was announced for all boys ages 8 to 11 Oliver would without fail say, "Ah I want to go. Why can't I go?". Finally he can go! They had day camp this Saturday and he loved it.

Eliza Wren aka "Baby Sister"

2011-05-31T11:09:00.000-07:00

Violette is in love with Baby Sister. The day after she first saw her Violette begged for Baby Sister all day long! She is constantly asking about her.

This little girl is constantly on the go - there is no down time until she crashes.

Memorial Day

2011-05-31T10:33:00.000-07:00

We had a nice relaxing Memorial Day. We went to our favorite river spot and played in the mud.

Violette played more in the mud than the water. I finally gave up on trying to get the mud off of her swim suit.

Oliver has been begging to go off this rope swing since we first found it. Usually this area of the river is crowded with teenagers, so we don't hang out much there. When Oliver saw it was open we let him try it out.

Oliver loved it. This was his last swing, and he panicked a little.

Beaker bubblin bubble bustin backyard birthday bash

2011-05-22T15:48:00.000-07:00

While we were waiting for all the guest to arrive we had a contest to see who could build the strongest tower.

The Trockel fam watching a failed experiment. We had 2 bad experiments. I guess I should have tried them before everyone came.

The colors were fun to watch as they combined and moved, once the q-tip (dipped in soap) touched the milk and food coloring.

The kids LOVED the rocket. Never a dull moment when Uncle Chris is around.

It was amazing how high it went. I love the kids faces.

I loved the self inflating balloons with vinegar, water, and baking soda.

Another favorite - the "Lava Lamps". During one of the experiments Jamal said, "BEST. BIRTHDAY. EVER!"

I couldn't have done this party with out help! Even with Ryan, Momma Lee and Papa Lee, and Chris and Rozannah it was still a crazy party.

There is only one place in Buffalo that sells dry ice. It took me 2 weeks to finally find it. Any guesses where I found it? A welding supply warehouse. So if you need some for your party and the grocery store doesn't sell it, unlike where everyone on the wonderful www said it would be sold, you could try there first.

The dry ice bubbles were a challenge to play with. Only a couple of kids could throw them up and catch them, but everyone wanted to try (and of course everyone said they could do it). I love the confidence of children!

I didn't get a picture of the big bubble, but this was their reaction when it finally popped.

So I might have panicked a little when Papa Lee said, "Don't try this at home" and started chipping away at the dry ice with all the kids around.

The cake was unbelievable, thanks to Rozannah, Momma Lee and Papa Lee.

The classic Coke and Mentos experiment. I wish I could say this was the messiest experiment but it wasn't. We also made slime, what a dumb idea. Who ever thought of that should be fired from birthday party planning. Somehow we didn't get a picture of it.

Before bed we had to do just a few more big bubbles.

Little Mother Hen

2011-05-15T19:17:00.000-07:00

Violette is the best helper when Solo is here.

out of the mouth of babes

2011-05-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

So I have to admit when I read the first line I may have raised my voice and said, "I am NOT 43 years old!"

Never fully dressed without a smile

2011-04-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

Ok who doesn't love a good before and after shot. I love them! I'm addicted to several before and after blogs - so fun to get ideas. Ryan told me I HAD to post a before picture. Please don't get too scared. Ryan took this picture a couple days before I got my braces on. It just shows what a GENIUS Dr. Dave Majeroni is! Seriously - he is amazing!!! Can you believe what he did and in such a short time! I can't believe it! Needless to say I LOVE my new smile!!!

This is such a horrible picture! Only for the love of a before and after am I doing this.

All in a days work

2011-04-17T18:59:00.000-07:00

So I made 51 one of these bad boys. I must admit I was disappointed when all was said and done. The holder for the bases were larger than the dimensions we were given so they swallowed the base of the centerpieces. Oh well everyone else loved them...

Crazy V

2011-04-17T18:21:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of Violette. It captures what she does all day long! Even though Violette isn't old enough for Penelepe's dance class, her teacher didn't mind. Favorite hide-n-seek spot. After my orthodontic appointments Penelepe would be excited to see what new color was on my braces. Violette would follow after her and check. Now that my braces are off Violette opens my mouth almost daily and says, "Red, purple, pink?"

Just the beginning

2011-03-31T10:31:00.001-07:00

Violette's first cooking experience. No where to go but up from here. She's starting out just like her Mom did, burning everything. (And no I didn't know she was making this until I smelled somthing burning- please don't tell on me.) She started gagging on her bite and ran to the garbage to spit it out. The sad thing is - just the other day I made something that was as horrible as her toast and I told the kids they didn't have to eat it. Always room for improvement.

How do you know when You have strep throat?

2011-03-31T10:17:00.000-07:00

The other week Penelepe was complaining of a sore throat. Oliver then told Penelepe strep throat feels like a metal ball, a brick, a wooden (I can't remember what was wooden), and a wheel all exploding in your throat. So the next time you feel like that - you probably have strep. Unfortunately, both Penelepe and Violette must have had that feeling the following day.

Already?

2011-03-09T08:07:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how fast this girl is growing. The other day she said her tooth was loose and I got mad saying no way not yet! Then a couple days later I noticed her 2 adult teeth were already through her gums behind her baby teeth!

She was so scared to lose that first tooth, but now she is proud as proud can be - feeling all grown up.

I love her outfits! Matching is so overrated!

Let's be honest

2011-03-09T07:36:00.000-08:00

Sometimes life is hard. We had the worst week last week. Just for an example of how our week went; as I was bending over to help Violette finish up her business in the public restroom my phone flew out of my purse and plopped perfectly into the toilet filled with pee. uhh seriously! (Now I can laugh about it - you should have seen how fast my hand plunged into the pee, 3 second rule). But as I was having that horrible week Elder Wirthlin's voice kept coming to my mind and him saying, "Come what may and love it". I did not want to love what was happening and thought honestly how I am expected to love this. So I had to reread the article and fell in love with it again. One of my favorite conference talks of all time. He counsels us to learn to laugh, seek for the eternal, and understand the principle of compensation. Life is hard but it's how we react to things that matters. Life can be sad and disappointing, but we can still love and be happy.

Winter fun - indoors

2011-02-20T18:09:00.000-08:00

With the cold winter Penelepe has loved going to the Y.

She smiles the entire time during her hip hop class!

Lorenzo on the other hand doesn't love it as much. (I love this picture of him)

She also loves her swim lessons. Hopefully by this summer she'll be ready to go.

I have loved this swim cap! It has been in the single digits after her lessons, it's been so nice to walk outside with dry hair!

Happy Valentines

2011-02-20T18:05:00.000-08:00

Penelepe said she loved the cupcakes, especially the moustache ones. So I guess my lovebirds looked more like blue staches.

For the Love of Art

2011-02-06T17:08:00.001-08:00

Is it hard for anyone else to throw away their kids artwork? Our fridge was way too crowded so we created our mini art galleria. Now our art galleria is too crowded......I'll periodically take pictures of the new exhibits and throw away the old ones. Yes, throw away the old when the kids are at school. Oliver we can't keep all of them. If Oliver knows I've thrown them away he digs them out of the garbage and saves them. We might have a bit of a hording problem in our house.

2 down 3 to go

2011-02-06T16:50:00.001-08:00

We have lived on one of the best streets in the Buffalo area and have made a lot of friends on our block. There have been 5 of us on our block who have been student families that go to the same church. The second family from our 5 moved this week, and my kids are super sad. We have loved the "kid swaps" and we'll miss the Steenbliks! Penelepe learned her love of make up from Annie.

(Sorry my pictures have been blurry lately.)

The boys were too busy for pictures.

I'm not sure who did Annie's make up, if it was Penelepe or Annie, but everyone better take a good look - that's the new style! Love it!

Little School Girl

2011-01-31T14:44:00.000-08:00

On days when we go to the Y Violette feels like a school girl. She goes out the door with her older brother and sister with her backpack and isn't left behind crying!

Little Stinker

2011-01-23T16:31:00.000-08:00

This little girl is such a sneak. If she finds any candy she quickly grabs it and runs to hide under the table. If the house is too quiet I usually find her here.

Last October she was doing great at potty training and then she got sick and that was the end of that. We have started her back again with getting use to the idea, with gumballs and starbursts for rewards. The other day she had a poppy diaper, so she ran to the bathroom took off her diaper and threw it in the garbage. She then sat on the toilet, flushed it, and then yelled, "Daddy poop on the potty". When he walked in and saw the poo all over she said, "GUMBALL!" Why can't she put that much energy and thought into actually going on the toilet?

Covered in snow ....and bad weather

2011-01-23T16:22:00.000-08:00

Penelepe is warming her hands with our neighbor's dryer vent, at least that's what I think it is.

Getting the stains out of the snow.

The Big 5

2011-01-09T16:42:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday! We made a "healthy choice" and she brought blueberry muffins to class to celebrate. Her actual birthday was pretty lame, Oliver had strep throat so she couldn't have friends over. Good thing we already a party with cousins during our Christmas vacation.

We did have the Trockels over for dinner to celebrate today. I asked Penelepe what she wanted for her birthday dinner and she requested Chicken Wings. I guess she is now a true Buffalonian with that request. Honestly I think she has had wings maybe twice since we moved her, today being the second time. We also had homemade Mac and Cheese which was completely lactose free! Thank you Cabot!! (most of their cheese is lactose free).

Her favorite things are:

Make up - and nail polish

Cousins and friends

Ice cream and treats and more treats and gum

and salad, tuna fish, and top ramen.

(Honestly if I let her she would eat top ramen from lunch and dinner EVERY day)

We love you Penelepe!!!

Little Momma

2011-01-09T16:36:00.000-08:00

Violette truly believes she is a mother. Solomon takes it so well, even when she is a little mean momma and tries to force feed him.

Happy New Year

2011-01-02T14:43:00.000-08:00

Thanks Grandma DeEtte and Grandpa Rich for such a great Christmas Vacation! We loved every minute of it!

This might be my favorite picture of the holiday. Hopefully we can live closer to our cousin Piper soon.

Grandpa Don and Grandma Joni

2011-01-02T14:35:00.000-08:00

The kids were so lucky to see their Grandparents this Christmas. We missed Great Grandpa and Grandma Sowell and Great Grandma Pat. Hopefully next year they can see them.

Grandpa Don helping Oliver with his "science project".

The girls Loved playing with Grandma Joni!

They took pictures with Grandma's camera for almost the entire visit!

Birthday Party

2011-01-02T14:09:00.000-08:00

Can you tell who is who? On top Oliver and Simon. Circles from left to right Mia, Penelepe, Jacob, Piper, Luke, Violette.
Since the beginning of Nov. Penelepe has been asking for a birthday party with her cousins Mia and Piper. Then in December we found out we were going to St. George for Christmas - so we celebrated her birthday early.

Jacob is a huge ham. Look at that face.

They played tag and had obstacle courses through out the park.

Max just gets cuter and cuter.

Who has better form? Ezra or Oliver?

And of course it's not a birthday without a pinata. Mariel gave Penelpe her pinata this year. Thanks Mariel!

Mia's technique......

We love St. George

2011-01-02T14:06:00.000-08:00

The Red Rock is so beautiful. This was on our walk by Grandma DeEtte and Grandpa Rich's house.

Merry Christmas

2011-01-02T13:49:00.001-08:00

Christmas dinner was so delicious!

Veggies are so hard to eat when everything else is so good.

MJ making sure everyone was doing their part.

Grandma Linda and Grandpa Dwain waiting for dinner.

Cheesy Aunt Sayde.

After dinner we made crystal ornaments.

Four Wheelers

2011-01-02T13:37:00.000-08:00

Grandpa Rich took Ryan, Penelepe, and Oliver out for a "muddy' ride.

Penelepe liked the first 20 minutes and then she was ready for lunch.

Twirly Swirly Park

2011-01-02T13:24:00.000-08:00

When I was out this fall I knew my kids would love this park. I was right.

Look at those pumpkin face smiles.

I think this was the favorite ride at the park.......

especially if you have a fun Aunt who will push you all afternoon long!

Bainter Twins

2011-01-02T13:10:00.000-08:00

Rebekah had her twins the week before we flew out, so I went for a quick trip to Farmington, NM with my parents to see the babes. They were adorable! I couldn't tell them a part. I'm pretty sure Dad is holding Taos and Mom is holding Jesse. (And have you ever seen a more manly man stache as my Dads?!!) I love moustaches - they make me laugh and smile.

Big brother Apollo and C.R. - it was so fun to see everyone. We then kidnapped Piper when we went back to St. George.

BellagiO

2011-01-02T12:12:00.000-08:00

We flew into Vegas for our Christmas vacation and we stopped quickly at my Favorite place there. If you haven't been to the BellagiO you need to check out their Botanical Gardens - they never disappoint. They have different displays up through out the year. I don't know if the reindeer are made out of real nut (acorn?) shells or not, but let's say they are to make them even more amazing.

Violette checking out the reindeer with Momma Lee.

I loved the polar bears. Can you see they are made of carnations? So cute!

The little train had a camera on it and the kids loved seeing themselves on the picture frame. If you look closely they are also in the framed picture.

About time

2010-12-08T16:35:00.001-08:00

I love Oliver's hair long, and always hate to cut it. He said he wanted a super short hair cut like his Dad's. His smile still makes me laugh, maybe for Christmas he'll get his 2 front teeth.

Happy Birthday Little Turkey

2010-11-28T16:47:00.000-08:00

Violette's birthday fell on Thanksgiving (which was absolutely delicious), but we pretended it was on Saturday. We HAD to wait for "Baby" (Solomon).

We love how she is her own person, sometimes it can be a tad difficult. She came downstairs the other day ready to go in her outfit she picked out herself. Truthfully, if she could be naked all day she would, no matter the weather.

This child can smell candy a mile away. Remember how she use to chew through boxes?
Now nothing is safe. She is constantly walking around the house with "snacks" she has gotten all by herself.

She was quite the helper on Thanksgiving. She peeled 3 onions for me.

I love my husband and son.

Her breakfast morning. Do you love spiderman as much as we do? Don't worry she does have girly jammies too.

Her cake turned out so cute. I wish these pictures would show how cute it was.

I love when we ask her where her ear is, she wiggles it, and when we ask her where our ear is, she grabs our ears and wiggles them too.

The party guests.

Oliver was the entertainment for the party. The kids loved having the car go through their legs.

Yes our Tree went up the day after Thanksgiving, actually we got it on Wednesday. If I could I would get a tree for my birthday in October.

Seriously aren't they so cute? I know you want to make some. They were super easy, they just take a little time. Go here.

Things we as a family are Thankful for this year: (in no particular order)

Birthday Girl and her siblings

teachers and school

yummy food

things that make us laugh

make up (Penelepe)

and Gravity, because without it we would be floating all over the place (Oliver).

Our week

2010-11-07T14:06:00.000-08:00

How about this lovely outfit? She does dress herself everyday. Even on days when she asks me to help her, I'll pull something out and then she'll say, "No I want to wear this." On Friday they have theme days at school. Last Friday it was mix match day.

Our "Little Mother".

Oliver's first diorama. The Raft by Jim LaMarche

Oliver's teacher from his first grade class, Miss Sacco, is brilliant and I love her. She organized a fundraiser for "not wanted" candy to be sent to our service men overseas. Oliver said they "raised at least over 400 pounds". If that really is true - that is sick. Can you believe all that candy could have possibly been eaten by the kids. He also thinks his school got the most out of any schools in the state. Even if it's not true - I still love the fundraiser. Our kids were only allowed to keep 14 pieces each (2 for each day for the week). They were great about it and didn't even complain. What good kids.

Halloween

2010-10-31T18:58:00.000-07:00

My favorite part of Halloween is the food!

The kids were completely grossed out when I told them we were having intestines for dinner. Well....they were completely grossed out when I told them what intestines were and what was in them. They couldn't believe I was feeding them body parts.

Our church party was fun as always! I wish I would have taken more pictures of everyone. I might have to steal some pictures from blogs and post them on mine. That's legal right? Just in case you're not sure who we are - we are Mary Poppins and clan. I asked Penelepe what she wanted to be for Halloween at her school and she said Jane. I told her everyone wouldn't know who she was without the rest of us, and she didn't care. She later told me her teacher knew who she was and she DID NOT have to tell her. Pretty amazing teacher.

Mrs. Banks, she was my favorite.

Someone had the Brilliant idea of making Goliath and then using a sling shot to shoot marshmallows at him (thanks sugardoodle). Did you know it is illegal to buy a sling shot in the State of New York. hmmmm - really annoying. Ok, not all sling shots are illegal, but they don't sell any in New York, at least not in Buffalo. We did use a legal style made from a wire hanger.

At Halloween I think all kids wish Rozannah was their mother. Lorenzo and Solomon were so cute.

All homemade, including her blue fairy costume.

My handsome "sweeper".

Trick or Treat

2010-10-31T18:53:00.000-07:00

Is there anything more adorable than little kids holding hands?
Yes, we went to the mall to trick or treat. The kids loved it, of course.

The scary mask is Steven, he did take it off for most of the time - it was way too scary.

Avery wouldn't even sit down because he was so scary. Sorry Avery.

October

2010-10-31T18:22:00.000-07:00

I walked into the kitchen just in time to stop the flood. She is such a helper.

October was a blur! One major highlight was a visit from Momma Lee. If you are wondering what we did.... we ate and ate some more. Thanks Kristin for posting this amazing salad recipe on your blog. I could eat it every other day. Everyone MUST TRY it, so if you don't know what's for dinner tonight you Have to Make this! Don't forget to roast the cashews, that's my favorite part. also I leave out the hot peppers because I'm a whimp and no cilantro because one day I know my husband will all of a sudden realize that this is the best salad ever and we can live happily ever after.

Our fall harvest of carrots. Our little pool garden shocked me with how well it did. I was so disappointed with our tomatoes, some horrible rat got all of them, at least I think it was a rat, maybe a bunny, I prefer to think it was the rat, because obviously bunnies are way cuter.

Nothing warms my heart more than Oliver reading a book to Penelepe, by his own free will.

I also love how they all have to sit on this chair to watch a show, when four inches a way is a larger more comfortable chair.

No this isn't Halloween. I love her Peanut Butter Stache.

Trip to St. George

2010-09-30T19:24:00.000-07:00

After I returned home from St. George, I went to download all my pictures and something happened to my memory card and I lost all of my pictures from the trip! GRRRRRR. I love that Rozannah is just a block away. Thanks for the pictures!

This park was so much fun. Oliver and Penelepe would have loved it! Don't worry we'll go back.

This swing was my favorite.

Since Jesse and I are twins - we also weigh the same amount. (Ok that's not really true).

It is not a secret that Violette loves Baby, aka Solomon. She still can't say his name, but Solomon can say Violette's name - it's so cute.

Pictures that I lost - but don't want to forget:

1. Violette finally asleep at baggage claim in Vegas after staying awake the ENTIRE 5 hour flight. I learned my lesson and didn't give her any juice (aka crack for children) on the flight back.

2. The cousins skyping with Oliver and Penelepe back home.

3. The "boys" outside almost the entire time shooting with their bows or throwing knives at targets.

4. Girlfriend. Tavi's new puppy Pug that Violette absolutely feared. Bloody murder screams whenever the puppy even looked at her. On the last 2 days Violette was almost ok to be around Girlfriend.

5. Our Midnight Volleyball game. Ok I didn't get a picture of that - but that was too fun to forget as well.

6. Sparklers.

7. Falon's amazingly clean house, delicious HOME MADE BREAD, and HOME MADE CHOCOLATE TURTLES, all the while being the mom of baby twins and 2 other wonderful kids. Amazing! How do you do it?!

8. Last but not least, me crying because Blue Bunny went out of business (again) and I couldn't get a cotton candy ice cream cone.

2010-09-30T19:15:00.000-07:00

All of us siblings there to celebrate with Rebekah and CR.

All of us except Lexi who is still playing in Australia. We missed you Lexi!

2010-09-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

Is your mouth watering yet? Rozannah put a lot of work into this table, it was so worth it!

Everything was so cute and delicious.

Grandma Linda, Mia, Micha, Brooke, Tavi.

Trockel Boys.

If they have been married over a year are they still newlyweds? I love that they are always wearing matching outfits.Grandpa Lincoln and Grandma Barb.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, no party is complete with out Carrie.

I wanted to steal Max.

Mariel.

Love that hat. I think Ezra and Ashley need to go on a trip and drop him off for a couple of days.

Jesse, Tavi, and Mom.

Together Forever

2010-09-27T16:43:00.000-07:00

What a fun week! The only thing missing to make it perfect was Ryan, Oliver and Penelepe still in New York.

I love this picture of the St. George Temple that Rozannah took. Want to learn more about the temple click here.

That belly is holding 2 babies, and I still think they should be named Jesse and Desmond. ")

What a cute family! (Great pictures Rozannah!)

First Day of School

2010-09-26T13:11:00.000-07:00

Penelepe loves Pre-K!

She comes home everyday with "pictures" like these, she has at least 5 or more a day. After several days of trying to get her to tell me what she was drawing - she finally explained those are notes! She is already writing notes to her friends.

Seriously she loves school!

Violette loves it when her sister comes home.

Last few weeks of summer

2010-09-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

This girl LOVES to wear any shoe she can find.

He is so old he gets his own locker! School hasn't started yet, but he did meet his teacher and find his locker.

We spent Labor Day at Niagara Falls. We are right above the falls on Three Sisters Island. The three sister's were daughters of Parkhurst Whitney, and said to be the first white woman to visit the island. They crossed the river while it was iced over. Not all the gold in the world would have made me cross the ice, with Niagara Falls just a couple hundred yards away. Yes, I'm a whimp.

This is what you get when you have the cheapest wife in the world who doesn't buy a $7.99 automatic pencil sharpener. Oliver did about 20 and needed a "rest", which was probably true, then his genius Dad took over. Who needs an automatic sharpener now?

This video I'm sure will be boring for everyone, so don't watch - it's just to archive Violette's voice, even though she really is only screaming on this video. Since I said don't watch it, you probably will want to, but honestly it's boring. But I do love her voice, she has such a low almost smokeresque voice. It's so cute.

Devil's Hole

2010-08-29T18:12:00.001-07:00

This trail is a mile or so down the river from Niagara Falls.
The river is such a beautiful color.

Checking out the trail below.

The kids thought this would be a great "bear cave".

Oliver wanted this guy to join our hike.

Uhh these creatures were ALL over the trail. Oliver wanted to point out and play with all of them. I wanted nothing to do with them!

This huge rock fell right in the middle of the trail.

Violette's ride. I didn't think she would want to stay in it, but she did great.

They did so good for how long the hike was. We tried to hike to the whirlpools as well, but it was too far.

What posers!

Summer Vacation

2010-08-29T17:56:00.001-07:00

Due to the rain our summer vacation camping trip was not possible. So instead we stayed and played and relaxed at home, which in all honesty is Ryan's favorite vacation.

Oliver's first time at a skate park. We just found this park and Oliver could have spent all day here. Too bad its not closer.

She's a wild one.

She knows how to play hard too.

Violette takes her water girl calling seriously.

For some reason I can't stand Chuck E Cheese, but the kids of course LOVED it!

Allegany State Park

2010-08-23T13:21:00.000-07:00

I think every child loves to play with fire. Oliver did learn how hot it is with a little burn.

This girl thinks she can do everything her older brother and sister do.

Hiking up to the Bear Caves. As we were hiking whenever Oliver saw someone else he would yell out, "There's a hiker!", like it was so amazing to see someone else hiking where we were.

Going down into a cave.

Inside one of the caves.

This cave was just right.

I loved the moss all over!

She is stuck, it doesn't look steep, but it was. She would get so mad when she couldn't follow.

That little girl was trying to give me a heart attack.

Inside another cave.

Violette wasn't sure if she really wanted to follow this time.

So I am one of those paranoid Moms constantly telling their children don't do this or that because you'll fall and get hurt. By the end of the hike I was a little better at letting Oliver climb where he wanted to.

They seriously could throw rocks for hours!

Saturday night it started dumping rain on us. So we were stuck inside.

It poured all night long with out letting up. It rained so much water came up from the bottom of our tent and soaked half of our bedding.

Violette was not a happy camper on the way home, can you see Penelepe has her ears covered. Our poor car was packed! Plus we had a cargo top carrier and bikes on the back. We started our trip planning on being gone for a week camping at Allegany and then making it over to the Finger Lakes area, but we only made it 2 days! Our car was already having trouble before we left and we sure didn't help it by packing so heavy. Then when our bedding got soaked, its not like you can hang it out to dry here with all the rain and humidity, so we decided to change plans and go home. It has rained the past 2 days so we're glad we came back.

Time flys when it's summer

2010-08-19T15:49:00.000-07:00

We found the BEST park at Pendelton! We need to go back soon. The surrounding areas of Buffalo are so beautiful and peaceful.

Someone in the church donated a bunch of toys to the nursery. I knew this would be a good one for the kids because Violette squealed when she saw it and played for about an hour with it.

Our New Favorite summer treat. If you love peanut butter and chocolate and cheese cake then you will love this. It's not really a cheese cake but it's so good and super easy to make. I added melted chocolate on the crust and on top we put Reese's hard shell. mmmmm

She is a crazy driver.

Penelepe has been teaching Violette how to sleep.

Real Life NIGHTMARE

2010-08-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

So..... the other day Oliver got a bag of hand-me-downs from his friend. After leaving the bag one night at Rozannah's house we brought the bag home on our dinner break (we've been helping Rozannah with stripping wall-paper). I left the bag on the living room floor planning on taking it to the basement to sort through it when I got a chance (like in a couple months or so). While I was doing the dishes Violette got a hold of the bag and dumped the shirts all over the living room floor. We needed to run back to Rozannah's to finish up, so the clothes sat on the floor for several hours. We returned home that night at 10:30 and we were exhausted. We all walked around the dimly lite house brushing teeth, getting drinks, and putting our pjs on. When all of a sudden I looked at the living room floor and noticed that there was a bunch of rice all over the floor. I was annoyed that Violette managed to get rice all over the living room floor and I wanted to just leave it because I was so tired. Then I noticed that the "rice" was kind of long and fat. And then I realized it was MOVING!!! MAGGOTS - MAGGOTS all over the floor! I immediately started screaming AT Ryan, Not for Ryan, but AT him. Why? I'm pretty sure I was in shock. As I'm screaming AT him, he is asking me in his calm parenting voice why are you yelling at me? I couldn't move all I could do was scream. Finally after forever (maybe a minute) of yelling I ran into the office and made Ryan go out there. They were all over. Not just a cute 4 or 5 of them but they were ALL over! In our kitchen, under the coach, in the office, and some trying to escape through the front door. And here we were walking around with them under our feet the entire time! Ahh it still freaks me out! Ryan got out the bleach and sprayed them but they just kept squirming and flopping all over. He realized that wasn't working, so he asked me to get the vacuum. He probably asked me about 10 times to get it and I couldn't move. I just stood there clutching Violette to me. Poor girl I'm sure she is traumatised for life. It took us (meaning Ryan and Oliver) 2 hours to vacuum them up. The maggots came from the hand-me-downs. Ryan would lift a shirt and 10 or so would flop out. What a nightmare! Luckily Ryan was home, I'm pretty sure I would have been hospitalized if he wasn't here! The next morning when Violette woke up the first thing she said was Bs (translated into English that means bug). Gross. Now we have had carpenter ants sneaking in.... what's next radioactive boars?

Pass it On

2010-08-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

We are so excited for our friends Rachel and Ryan because they are in the process of adopting a baby! We know they are going to be great parents. Rachel has got to be one of the most giving people I know. She is one of the major reasons Ryan has done so well in school, thanks to her time and editing! My kids also love Ryan. For Oliver's 6th birthday Ryan was the second person on the list of people he wanted to invite! Sometimes the adoption process can take a long time, but everyone knows the power of word of mouth so please pass on the message that they are looking to adopt. You never know who might know someone who is pregnant and considering adoption. Click here to know more about them.

Sights of Buffalo

2010-07-25T19:33:00.001-07:00

I need to remember my camera when we are out and about.

I don't know why but this "billboard" cracks me up every time I see it. Anyone need the number?

I love this building. It's the Old Psychiatric Center right next to Buffalo State. Isn't it scary? Can't you just imagine a horror film when you see it? But it's so amazing at the same time.

Here is a picture of our church. It makes me smile. Not your traditional U.S. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints chapel. I fell like I'm in another country when we pull up.

Arrrrrr

And of course these ninos can be seen around.

Itty Bitty Garden

2010-07-25T19:26:00.000-07:00

Our first real garden.

Is there anything more satisfying than eating something so fresh! We love it!

Clothes are optional at this garden.

Science Time

2010-07-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love a fun science project. The kids learned about what ingredients were acid (pink) or base (blue) using purple cabbage water. The kids all had fun, even though Lauren's face says different.

One of Ryan's favorite ways to relax

2010-07-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

Ryan finally has his summer vacation! In case you don't know he is a major Paintball nerd, good thing I love nerds! He is tuning Oliver's gun, even though Oliver will Not be using it for a while.

The neighboorhood kids checking out how fast it shoots. Pretty exciting stuff!

2010-07-06T20:25:00.001-07:00

In our church here in Buffalo there have been a lot of babies born in the last couple of months. Penelepe asked me tonight, "When are you going to eat enough to get a big belly so we can have a baby?"

How do you eat your ice cream cone?

2010-07-06T19:54:00.000-07:00

They're so Corny!

2010-07-06T19:37:00.000-07:00

This is so hard!

All of that hard work for this.

Final Days of First Grade

2010-07-06T19:26:00.000-07:00

Oliver has had great teachers these past two years at his school. This year he had Miss Sacco and loved being in her class. I wonder how often he called her Mom, because at least once a week he would call me Miss Sacco.

Everyone in his class gave a power point presentation on an animal they saw at the zoo. I think it is so funny that he gave a power point in 1st grade. I remember doing one of my first ones (and maybe last) in college!

Oliver received the Beacon Award and The Most Consistent Reader Award this year.

Good Job Oliver!

Kenmore Craft Show

2010-07-06T19:24:00.001-07:00

Family Home Evening with an Ecuadorian Flair

2010-06-27T18:17:00.000-07:00

Who ever makes the penny drop loses.

Oliver lost, and I think it may have been on purpose. In Ecuador this is what happens when you lose.....

Oliver loved it!

Violette wanted to play too.

We played this game a lot for FHE in Ecuador, especially in Rio-stinking-Bamba! So much fun! Kristen look how cute you are! We are totally in for 2020!

And the Next Time we play this game it will be OUTSIDE!

Daddy's Little Helper

2010-06-27T18:08:00.001-07:00

She is easily distracted though.

Good Morning Sunday

2010-06-09T06:36:00.000-07:00

Oliver finally got a haircut, now he can see again.

I love Violette's dress. I made it from 1 placemat. I wish I would have made it a couple of months ago, she'll probably only be able to wear it one more time.

What a cute placemat!

Simply Bliss

2010-06-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

Best week ever!!!
We went to Beaver Island State Park not just once but 3 times. Can it get better than that?

Oliver even skipped half a day of school to go play. The weather was just too nice - we couldn't waste it!

Violette loved chasing the seagulls. She was so cute with her big belly sticking out and her elbows back as she ran.

They played so well together.

I love how funny kids look in goggles and the missing teeth just add to it.

This is the entrance - it is such a beautiful park. It's minutes away from Niagara Falls. The kids love crossing the big bridge on the way to Grand Island.

We had fun with friends and cousins.

I wasn't quick enough with the camera, but just seconds before Violette was holding hands with Solomon. So cute - she loves him.

And when we weren't at the beach they've been slip-n-sliding.

Justin Bieber Ahhhahahhahahhhhahahhahah!!ahhahah

2010-05-19T19:30:00.000-07:00

Penelepe fell asleep on the couch tonight while watching American Idol. Then Justin Bieber started singing. All of a sudden she sat up straight and said, "That sounds like Justin Bieber! That looks like Justin Bieber. That's him!"
What???
Seriously what?
I couldn't believe it! My little four year old. I asked her how she knew who he was and she said she watched him at a friends house. Just in case you may be like me and not really know who he is here's a quick clip of him on Jimmy Kimmel . I love the 11 year old interviewing him.

Where do you work?

2010-05-19T19:11:00.000-07:00

Oliver only asked me the last two questions. He already KNEW the answers to the first questions.

New Blades

2010-05-19T19:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks Grandma DeEtte! He loves them!

Water Girl/Trainer

It was a perfect SUNNY Day!

Can I get a woot woot!

2010-05-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

Ryan graduated from Buffalo State College last week!!! He didn't walk or anything like that so - sorry no pictures, but this is definitely blog worthy! He really enjoyed it (as much as you can enjoy college) and for the most part really appreciated all of his instructors. He did amazing in all of his classes, and we HAVE to THANK Rachel from our ward. She helped him with so many papers!!! THANK YOU!!!

He now is attending UB (still here in Buffalo) and is in the accelerated program for a Masters of Social Work. The program is 12 months! How wonderful is that?! There is light at the end of the tunnel!

Two Wheeler

2010-05-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

Over Mother's Day weekend I went to Toronto with several girlfriends for the weekend. It was the first time that I have left the kids, other than when I was at the hospital giving birth to one of their siblings, and I was nervous and anxious about leaving them. Why? Who knows. Ryan was home with them, I guess I was afraid I might miss some big event. Well I did.

Whoa - whoa

Penelepe's cousin Lorenzo, who isn't even 3 yet, knows how to ride a "two wheeler". We thought for sure this would be a major motivator for Penelepe to learn..... if her little cousin can do it...... Ryan and I tried teaching her, and honestly I gave up and thought maybe next year we'll try again. Well, while I was gone, Uncle Chris, a.k.a. The Bike Whisperer, taught her! Yay! No more training wheels - they were so loud! Thanks Uncle Chris!!!!

She has had one little fall since learning - but that won't keep her down. She has been doing an impressive platypus impression the past couple days.

2010-05-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

The other day I was in the grocery store and all of a sudden she said "More" and signed it at the same time. It was so out of the blue, and the first time she has ever signed anything, it made me laugh. We were of course in the cereal isle and she kept pointing and saying/signing "more", "more", "more". For the rest of the shopping trip anything she saw that she wanted, she would let me know by saying/signing more. Now every time we go grocery shopping she says/signs more at least a dozen times. I love it!

We Love These Kids

2010-05-09T18:16:00.000-07:00

I love that I am the Mom of these three crazy kids!

Penelepe loves her Mom so much she wore hearts in her hair today just for her! Isn't it cute Rebekah? It would be adorable in Piper's hair too.

Pumpkin Face

2010-05-09T18:11:00.001-07:00

Kids at this age look so silly. Oliver had his tooth magically hanging on the entire day today, even though you could see the top of his gums. He could twist it and make it go any direction - he was trying to see if he could make his Mom puke on Mother's Day.

Happy Birthday Oliver

2010-05-04T20:22:00.000-07:00

Just in case you may not know, Oliver Loves LEGOS. If he isn't outside riding his bike or playing he usually is inside building something.

The boys built a Lego bridge to see whose could hold the most weight and we had a contest to see who could create something awesome while they were blindfolded.

On his actual birthday we had the neighborhood kids over to do a pinata. I have attempted to make a pinata for the past two years, but just ended up with paper bags. This year I actually made one. I was really worried the kids would break it after the first hit, but they didn't.

We have no trees in our little side yard, which created a minor problem with our pinata. Luckily Oliver has a super strong Dad who held it out the window.

The pinata was so well built that no one could break it. (Don't worry we have fired the pinata maker).

The forecast did say it was cloudy with a chance of candy.

Violette enjoyed all of the festivities in Rozannah's bike trailer. She is such a cheese ball!

The Start to Oliver's Birthday Celebrations

2010-04-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

These planes will be flying their way into Oliver's classroom for his birthday. They were super fun and easy to make. Nothings better than an easy project for the kids to do that is fun, but also looks cute. Thanks for the idea Mom (and Simon).

Can you see Violette sneaking one out for a test flight? They fly great, but she thought the wings were HOT.

Love her and Hate her

2010-04-21T11:42:00.001-07:00

So everyone knows I love my sister Rozannah, but sometimes I hate her too. And when I say hate, I mean it in the nicest most jealous way possible. She is so creative! It drives me crazy - I love everything she makes. Anyways she has a new Etsy site and the ruffled watches are, needless to say, adorable! The pictures do not do them justice. So if you need an idea for Mother's Day look no longer. Check out her Etsy site here.

Nap time

2010-04-19T18:52:00.000-07:00

We went to the park and played for several hours. When we came home Violette walked inside and whined for about 10 seconds and I turned around and found this.

2010-04-19T18:34:00.000-07:00

Rozannah's Birthday Cake - mmmm lemons. I will only make this again if I have a crepe maker, it took forever!

The chef.

Warmer than St. George? What??

2010-04-06T19:45:00.000-07:00

The weather this past weekend was UNbeLIeVaBLE!!! Growing up we had the rule that it had to be over 75 to go swimming. Last year we started that rule here in Buffalo. The kids begged all weekend to go swimming - it was Over 75 for several days!!! Seriously perfect! We loved every minute of it!

2010-04-06T19:42:00.001-07:00

The kids had fun coloring eggs when their Mom FINALLY let them dye them. We didn't get them decorated until after Easter.

Conference Tradition

2010-04-06T19:34:00.000-07:00

Conference was about to start and I could hear Oliver outside asking his neighbor friends if they wanted to watch conference. They came in (and tried to sneak upstairs) and then sat down and watched conference for almost all of the first session. I'm sure the treats were the major incentive to stay, but they had to listen to get one. My kids get so excited for conference - hopefully they will continue to always be excited for it.