Gray's

Sisters!

2012-01-29T13:55:00.000-08:00

Kaitlyn and Taylor had twin day last Friday they we're total twinners. Their shoes we're the same, they we're wearing shorts, they both had Bronco shirts, and they both had buns in their hair. SISTERS!!!

photoshoot by Kaitlyn

2012-01-29T13:51:00.000-08:00

Brett is such a funny kid, and his sister Kaitlyn decided to get him dressed up and did a photo shoot with TONS of pictures. Here are just a few.

Finished with painting

2012-01-18T13:23:00.000-08:00

We are done painting the living room and I am very happy how it turned out. Now I can put up vinyl and things that I couldn't until I painted. Here are some pic's, the lighting isn't so good but the inserts and 1 wall are an accent color.

Videos from the cruise!!!

2012-01-02T21:38:00.000-08:00

Karaoke - Salt and pepa (the wife got up to sing and the husband got up and went old school, it was awesome!!!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWWA9cmlThU&feature=g-upl&context=G2e38bb7AUAAAAAAAGAA

Leaving miami

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28K6134vY18&feature=g-upl&context=G224b411AUAAAAAAAAAA

karaoke- vanilla ice (I signed up to sing this but this fool signed up before me) I wouldn't of even needed the words!!! ice ice baby

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZjUPuGIedA&feature=g-upl&context=G2841b7fAUAAAAAAAEAA

Dinner interview by Justin and Kelli Jeffs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELyAqtlIbD4&feature=g-upl&context=G2b1d58fAUAAAAAAABAA

Eastern Caribbean Cruise

2012-01-02T21:11:00.000-08:00

Back in October we went on an Eastern Caribbean cruise with our friends. This was our first cruise and I loved it. The only thing I will change is not putting the motion sickness patch behind my ear. I was fine the first 3 days but when I switched them out, my eyes stayed dilated and that me we a little woozy. Anyways we went to the bahamas, grand turks, and I just loved it. We flew in early and got to hang out in miami beach for a day. It was fabulous and we are saving up for our next cruise!!!

In Grand Turk we went to the "drop off" and scuba dived. The coolest experience ever. James even dove down deep and touched a reef shark. It was so amazing and the colors were exactly like finding Nemo!!!

Nassau Bahamas. Lounging around and buying alot of stuff from the locals. Wasn't my favorite place but still cool to visit once.

Painting our living room

2012-01-02T20:54:00.000-08:00

Holy crap. . . . that's all I can say about painting this room. For the past 5 years the plan was to hire someone, but I have better things to do with $1500 so I decided that we would do it ourselves. Our ceilings are pretty high and I was at the top of our ladder cutting in. The hardest part was keeping the kids out of our way and thankfully the new Christmas toys did just that. It actually wasn't too bad and it looks awesome. I'll post some pic's later.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-02T20:45:00.000-08:00

So here is a bunch of pictures for December. Some of us making candy, going to the temple, Christmas Eve and Christmas day.

Guys and Dolls

2012-01-02T20:43:00.000-08:00

Tesla (one of my young women) was in the play Guys and Dolls. I picked up the girls, went out to dinner and then went to her play. She did great playing a few different roles and singing.

Piano Recital

2011-12-21T14:50:00.000-08:00

All 11 students were able to come to this years Christmas recital. We had it at an assisted living center which was great for a big place to meet as well as entertain the seniors with some music. Everyone brought treats and visited with the residents after it was over. It was a great night and Im so proud of my students!!!

Derick's Family History Project

2011-12-21T14:40:00.000-08:00

Derick was assigned a family history report and we had alot of fun doing it. First of all I am thankful for all of the family members who do genealogy work, because that sure made this not only easy but the teacher was totally impressed at how far we can go back on both sides. So my dad sent us a whole file of names and dates which was amazing!!! (thanks dad!) So here are some pic's. Sadly I don't have any pic's of James' side and since Derick did this the night before it was due (shocker) we didn't have time to get some.
We broke off a branch on a tree and with my cricut cut apples. On each apple he wrote family member's names and tied them onto the branch. I thought it was very clever. We then put the subtitle as "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree"

Train Ride

2011-12-21T14:24:00.000-08:00

During Thanksgiving we were up by yosemite and went on a steam engine train. I especially did this because Brett is obsessed with trains right now. However we all enjoyed it with the whole family. Luckily it was nice weather so that made it even better.

Brett got a train in the gift shop and tried it out on the tracks.

At the stop filling it up with water.

Thanksgiving at the Ranch

2011-12-21T14:00:00.000-08:00

We went to our friends ranch for Thanksgiving. It was just our family the first few days and then a "whole lot of Grays" came up for a few days. We had so much fun and it was so relaxing. The kids love to go fishing, swinging, playing horseshoes and so much more.

Oops. . . . . . my bad!

2011-11-21T15:04:00.000-08:00

Remember my post awhile back when I did a makeover on James office. Well let me tell you about what I did:
Right after that we went on a cruise (ill post pic's later) when we got back and would go in James office it smelled weird. We looked behind his desk in his closet trying to figure out what it was. I'm not gonna lie it was a "funky" smell and my money was on a rotting sippy cup of milk hidden somewhere. Well one night I was in his office and I had only socks on and I stepped behind his chair to close his blinds, BINGO it was soaking wet. I immediately got a hold of someone to come out. So the next day he cut a small hole in the wall and found out which pipe was leaking. It was our shower drain from our master bedroom right above. He then said that he would have to keep cutting away the wall to determine where the leak was. Well as I stood back and looked at the pipe I followed it up and it matched exactly where I had screwed in an anchor for a shelf I put up. Yeah I drilled into the pipe!!! Luckily we were able to dry everything out so we didn't have to replace carpet or padding. However we did have to fix the pipe, drywall, retexture, molding and paint, (when I say WE I mean HIM) Anyways I'm glad it is all done and I learned to check with a nail before pulling out the drill.
The funny thing is if I'm hanging something I hate using the drill and using anchors. I'll usually shortcut it with nails and just hope it doesn't fall down on someone. The only time I do it the correct way and this happens.

Kaitlyn letting you all know how gross it smelt.

Goodbye Jake

2011-11-21T14:50:00.000-08:00

So last month after alot of thought we decided to get rid of our golden retriever Jake. We got him when he was 6 weeks old and was just so cute. However he got big real fast and didn't realize all the work there is to a puppy. Jake was constantly jumping and knocking the kids down, biting everything, tearing up everything. Brett would unlock the back sliding door and Jake would be standing there waiting and right when it was open far enough he would barrel in, muddy paws and all. I literally had 2 toddlers and I was frustrated.

I didn't want to take the time, money or effort in working with him every day and training him and since he was only 8 months old we knew he would be in this puppy stage for awhile and . . . well I was just not loving it. So I put out an ad and a young man called to come out and see him. So him and his girlfriend came out and they fell in love with Jake. He is such a beautiful dog and this guy had been looking for quite awhile. So he took him to the vet to make sure he was healthy and then Jake was gone. When he left we all cried for awhile but then realized how nice it was to play outside and not worry about Jake. Our kids have wanted a dog FOREVER and we gave it a go, I think later if we decide to try it again we will get an older golden retriever, as for now there are NO plans for another dog. Live and learn right? Well I'm just glad I lived through it and I learned that puppies are alot more work then you think.
Here are some pic's of the day he left and his new adorable owners!!!

Broncos VS Raiders

2011-11-21T14:47:00.000-08:00

We had our friends the Bayers, over for the Raider Bronco game (since they are diehard Raiders fans, uhhhh) It was so much fun and even better since the Broncos won!!! fun night.

Mr. Brett. . . at it again!

2011-11-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

As i was cleaning down stairs I realized it was pretty quiet downstairs where Brett was. I was instantly suspicious and rightly so because Mr. Brett had climbed up on the island and found the halloween makeup. The funny thing is I used the red on his face for the clown and that is all he touched. With 12 other colors he stuck with the red, and it was only on him not on the counter. crazy kid!!!

Here is one of him earlier climbing up to get the candy corn. I love how he poses and smiles instead of feeling remorseful.

Brett turns 2

2011-11-07T08:55:00.000-08:00

Brett celebrated his 2nd birthday in October. I can't believe my baby is 2!!! He is just so much fun and so much work all at the same time. Here are some things he's up to now.

1. Personality. . . Love it, he's naughty and nice.
2. Loves to snuggle and give hugs.
3. climbs on anything.. . . . if there is a chair nearby he'll drag it and use it.
4. athletic, you should see this kid throw a ball, kick it or run. He is so fast!!!!
5. good eater, not picky
6. Loves to repeat what we say, here is how he says our names.
mommy - mommy
daddy - dadda
Derick - de de
Kaitlyn - ka in
Taylor - Tay Tay
Olivia - iv a

Halloween

2011-11-01T16:33:00.001-07:00

so here is all the halloween pictures from the past week. The kids had a fun school parade where the teaches did a flash mob dance. Olivia had her preschool party, and we had our ward party which is outside at members of our ward and it is totally awesome!!! Then we had actual halloween night. I love that we had alot of costumes in our "costume bin" and some even dressed up in a different costume for each event. Here are some pic's:

Brett had just won and eaten a cupcake before this picture was taken!!!

Another project

2011-10-08T19:51:00.000-07:00

My friend gave me this since I needed something by my front door and I painted and distressed it. I just love it!!!! So cute!

2011-10-08T19:47:00.000-07:00

I just redid James' office. I forgot to take a before picture but here is a little one. I painted and switched stuff around, added shelves.

New Swing set and fun

2011-10-08T19:40:00.000-07:00

Well summer is over and fall is here. . . at least I think it is over. I was dying of heat at Derick's football game today. A few days ago it was pouring rain and cold, however today is warm. I love this weather when it is in the low 80's and a slight chill in the breeze.
Anywho we got a new swing set which is AWESOME!!! The wooden swingsets are just to little for my growing kids so our good friend built one for us. We bought galvenized steel and he welded and put it together. It is 10 feet high and solid as a rock so all the kids can be on at once swing as high as they can and I don't have to worry at all. I need to buy one more swing or double seater thing and it is done.

Derick's new chore this summer was mowing the front and back yard. What a workout!!!

Super smiley Brett

Playing on the tramp!

2011-10-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Taylor turned 7 this past week. She got a scooter with light up wheels, a dog that converts into a sleeping bag and some polly pockets. Also some money from grandparents so she can go pick out some stuff. Taylor is such a sweet girl with a big heart!

Yosemite National Park

2011-09-18T21:53:00.000-07:00

We went with our friends to their ranch for a long weekend and went to Yosemite Park for a day to do some hiking. I have to say that Yosemite is the most beautiful place I've ever been. It was breathtaking and I just loved it!!!

Dresser revamp

2011-09-15T16:26:00.001-07:00

My friend gave me this dresser that she was starting to redo but lost interest in. I thought it would go perfect in my living room but I needed to make it look "less" like a dresser. I took the top drawer out and put in a shelf and then painted the other drawers black. I wanted to add some color so I covered the shelf in a fabric. I added some cute knobs that were on clearance at Lowe's and voila!!! This renovation cost around $7.00. I already had the paint from my hutch.

Mother & Son Giants game

2011-09-12T13:58:00.000-07:00

On Friday me and Derick went to a Giants game. We made it a "mother / son" outing which was alot of fun to spend time with just big D.

The three sons!

Our little brother Jeff who goes to all the Giants games with us.

Trying to get autographs by the players parking lot.

The whole crew!

Brett = havoc

2011-08-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

Brett is giving me a real run for my money right now. First of all he is just an active little boy just like Derick was so I should be able to handle it (however I was also 12 years younger when I was chasing Derick around). Second he is 22 months which is the hardest age. I'm telling you 16 months to 2 1/2 is the hardest. He doesn't understand timeout and consequences and it is frustrating. Lately I've buckled him in his high chair for timeout. Funny because I remember doing something similar with Derick at that age. Anyways here is what Brett has been up to lately.

We bought this tv about 3 months ago with the 2 year warranty plan and all of that. One night Brett was messing around and threw a plastic bat up in the air and it barely hit the tv and did this. Yeah it won't turn on and my warranty doesn't cover little boys chucking bats at it. SUPER!

We have a little area in our yard that is dirt right now because we are putting sprinkler stuff in. Well he finds that area and since it is usually muddy because of the watering that morning he rolls around in it and is a mess. I literally have to lock the back screen door now when he's outside because he comes in with mud on him from head to toe and walks around the house. The picture is of the muddy mess he left on the screen door when he couldn't get in.

Next we go to our table where he snagged a purple sharpie and wrote on the table. I'll have to try Mr. Eraser on it but it usually takes off the finish as well.

So with all of the havoc he's been creating I'm taking a stand..................................

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If you are interested, give me a call.

Hutch renovation

2011-08-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

About 2 years ago my neighbor was moving and gave me her hutch. Well I've had intentions to freshen it up ever since but have just now gotten around to doing it. As you can see by the picture it is very outdated with glass doors, mirror back and all that maple.

Brett helping me with the power tools!

I just got this sign and painted it and hung it up. Man when I get on a roll there is no stopping me. The hard part for me is just starting to move!!!

HERE IT IS!!!! I covered the mirrors with a cute green and cream paisley print. I took off the glass doors and filled in the holes. I painted it with a flat black with I love. I didn't want any glossy finish and I just love it. I then added some cute silver handles and and did a few touch-ups!!! I'm so happy the way it turned out and it really changes the look of my family room.

Some pic's with it all put together!!!

This is the fabric but it is still hard to see.

First Day of School

2011-08-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

Well August 1st was the first day of school for our kids. I don't have a picture of all 4 school age kids because Derick leaves at 7:10 and the girls don't go until 8:30 so oh well!!!! The girls are excited for this year and are happy with the teachers they got. Olivia especially is excited since she's been waiting to go to preschool for quite awhile!!!

Taylor 2nd grade

Kaitlyn 5th (top of the food chain!!! (her words not mine)

Olivia preschool

Photoshoot outtakes

2011-08-07T19:14:00.000-07:00

Brett reaking havoc!!!! I love how the one picture that he is smiling cute and looking at the camera is when the others are crazy!!! I also love how he looks at everyone and just loves having them laugh at him.

Photoshoot before church

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

This is for my mom who needs a picture of all of my kids. First of all trying to get all 5 kids look at the camera and not have doofy smiles is pretty hard but I think there are some cute ones. Brett was cracking us up and we wanted to just look at him the whole time. When you tell Brett to smile he closes his eyes and is super cheesy. It is so funny!!!!

Sewing 101

2011-07-27T18:29:00.000-07:00

I've had fabric to make curtains for both of the girls rooms for a few months and I finally took the time and made them.

First Kaitlyn's room I made some long drapes in this cute tealish blue with cream colored swirls fabric. The picture is dark so you can't see them that well but they are super cute.

Second is a cute valance in Taylor's and Olivia's room. I just got a new comforter recently and the fabric matches great.

Go Joe!!!!

2011-07-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

Brett in his army attire being his cute self.

Giants game

2011-07-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

A few families went to the Giants game for LDS night. We tailgated before the game all decked out in our black and orange. We had such a great time, and BRett did pretty good up until the last 40 minutes or so.

4th of July (dressing up for church)

2011-07-10T19:33:00.001-07:00

with church not starting until 1:00 we get a little bored in the morning. So the day before the 4th we decided to try to coordinate red white and blue colors.

After putting ribbon in all the girls hair they said I needed one in mine too.

Derick felt left out so he posed for me. What a nut!!

Summertime

2011-07-10T19:23:00.001-07:00

So summer just flies by here for us. My kids start school in 3 weeks and so it feels like we cram in alot in so little time. I'm not the mom who has to go somewhere everyday. No I am very fine with my kids and I being home swimming, and playing together. So we have been hanging out and swimming quite a bit this summer. Here are some pic's:

Brett is constantly wet. He has figured out how to turn on the water connected to the house and he plays in it all the time. Jake is his buddy and loves to get wet right along with him.

James turns 36

2011-06-30T10:55:00.000-07:00

James celebrated his birthday the first part of June. The kids and I made him a cupcake cake and we had our friends over to celebrate. I hit the jackpot with James. He is the most genuine, selfless, hardworking, honest man I know. I love you Jameseeee wameseeeee!!!

Canning cherries

2011-06-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

I love when my in laws come to visit. Especially when they are on a mission to can some cherries. I always learn something new when they come!!!

Taylor's father day song

2011-06-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

The primary kids sang some Father Day Songs in church today and Taylor sang a little solo. She did such a great job so I wanted to get it on tape when we got home. Here is Taylor 6 years old singing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5d510CQHtCs

Kaitlyn is double digits

2011-06-17T20:23:00.000-07:00

Kaitlyn, my little fire ball has turned 10. She had a few friends over and had a jam packed night. First they swam and jumped on the tramp forever. Then they ate pizza and soda, then swam some more. Next they went on a treasure hunt that me and Derick made for them. It was cute, the clues sent them to some neighbors and they made them sing and make up cheers for Kaitlyn before they got their next clue. They all said that was their favorite part!!! ( Yay for not having to spend a couple hundred dollars and some big bounce house right!) Anywho they ate the cupcake cake, opened presents and then went night swimming and jumping on the tramp. Lastly they all watched a movie in the tent and camped out. I LOVE that they were in the tent and in the morning they all got up and jumped and played outside so they didn't wake up the little ones.
So all in all it was a great party...... with great friends..... for a GREAT little young lady!

Posing for the camera. (I think Taylor and Olivia were more excited than anyone)

Starting her b-day off with her breakfast of choice, hashbrown, fried egg and orange juice.

Jumping on the tramp at night and then snuggling up in the tent to watch a movie.

Just chillin' in the pool!!!

All Star Game

2011-06-11T16:32:00.000-07:00

Derick had his All star game today and they won 16-3. There game was suppose to be at 10:45 but a field was flooded because of sprinkler troubles so it then got postponed to 12:30, but didn't actually start until 1:15. The game didn't get over until 3:30. We were there 6 straight hours and I'm exhausted. In fact as I write this Derick and Brett are both laying on the ground sound asleep.

Big D with a big hit!

Playing shortstop

announcing the players

Big D takes championship

2011-06-10T22:28:00.000-07:00

Well Derick's baseball season is almost over. I have to say that I am glad to have Saturdays back and less on the calendar. They went undefeated this year with a record of 19-0 and won the championship. This season Derick played mostly short stop and catcher for 1 inning. He was the lead off batter and hit the ball really well. One game he even hit through the cycle. (homerun, triple, double, single)
They made it to the championship game and this year it was much cooler from last years and this is why:
announcer announcing who was up to bat each time
music played before the game and during innings (I was gettin' jiggy wid it during the innings)
A girl sang the national anthem
5th inning stretch and singing of take me out to the ball game

It was like being at a triple A game. Anyways it was really awesome and he just has one more game to play and he is done. He made the all start team and will play in it tomorrow so I'll post pic's of that. Good job BIG D

Memorial weekend

2011-06-04T17:05:00.000-07:00

For memorial weekend we went away!!!! Every weekend is baseball, softball, yardwork and other things and so we needed to get away. We didn't want to go far so we booked Embassy Suites for 2 nights only 1 hour away. It was so much fun and was exactly what are family needed. Indoor pool provided most of the entertainment, while we loved room service while watching swamp people (crazy, but cool show), and just hanging out with each other.

Brett (never a dull moment)

2011-06-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

Brett in all his glory. This kid keeps me on my toes and is such a little pill and cutie all at once!!!

All tuckered out

Dressed up in sissy's shoes!! what do you expect, he's got 3 older sisters.

Tough guy coming out in him and playing GI joe and acting all cool and stuff.

Pulling the chair to the island, climbing up, and helping himself to a chocolate snack.

Kaitlyn softball

2011-05-09T16:36:00.000-07:00

Kaitlyn is playing softball right now and she is at the level where the girls pitch. At the first practice the coach asked who would be interested in pitching and Kaitlyn didn't say anything. Somehow the coach tried her out and she did awesome. Here are some pic's of her.

Easter Day

2011-04-26T16:15:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday was great. Early in the morning our culdesac had an easter egg hunt. Then we got in our new Easter clothes and took some pictures before church. James had meetings so I didn't get any of our whole family, bummer! James' parents came in that evening and we had a yummy dinner and just relaxed. The next day James' sister Sara and her husband Chris came from Utah for a day and we had a great day with them. It was a great Easter weekend!

Brett's first haircut

2011-04-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

Brett got his first haircut a few weeks ago and I just love it!!! He looks like a little boy now and just so handsome.

The Gray 5 "firework" music video

2011-04-24T22:17:00.000-07:00

Click on the link below to view the totally awesome music video!!!!
Or cut and paste.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvK2_t-38Q4

Trisha

Ninja kids

2011-04-04T16:04:00.000-07:00

The kids turned there shirts into ninja masks and sneaked around spying on me and trying to go unnoticed. They were pretty funny and the little ones were pretty cute karate chopping and sneaking around corners and stuff.

Kaitlyn and her many faces

2011-03-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

Kaitlyn is a fun girl!!! She has a cute personality and has funny expressions and says hilarious things daily. I sat on the chair and discreetly fired away while her and Derick played Wii Mario Cart. It was hilarious!

New craft area

2011-03-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

In our master bedroom we have these alcoves that are a waste of space. So on one side we did shelves for food storage and then put doors over to cover it. On the other side we did a craft area for all of my craft stuff with a desk to sew, scrapbook or whatever. It turned out so great and I am going to add more stuff a little later.

Beehive surprise

2011-03-23T10:19:00.000-07:00

My church calling is the Beehive advisor. I picked up some of my girls and went and decorated an incoming beehives room. We had a ton of fun, these girls are just adorable!!! Notice Kaitlyn in the front, she was so excited to go with us and the girls were so sweet to her. In just 2 years she will be a beehive.

March Madness

2011-03-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

We love watching March Madness in our house. James' family all fill out brackets to see who will win. I'm doing horrible but I'm ok since BYU is still in it!!!

All YOU Brett

2011-03-23T10:01:00.000-07:00

So the puppy thing is going great. Much easier than I thought. He is a good puppy and we are having so much fun with him. However for Brett it is like a new kid and he sometimes feels a little left out. If I'm on the floor playing with Jake (the puppy) Brett will come over and sit on my lap and hug me. We are on spring break and it has done nothing but rain. I'm over the rain and need some sunshine, and so do my kids.
Here are a bunch of pic's of Brett lately.

Brett was hitting Kaitlyn and so she put him on the windowsill for "timeout". He looked so cute and we all got a good laugh. Below Derick and Kaitlyn are giving him "the talk".

Brett watching the rain and contemplating life.

Playing golf / basketball

Helping me make some chocolate chip cookies, which only lasted a few days.

Brett likes Jake, especially when he is in the crate and can't get to him.

Playing the piano forte.

Getting a puppy

2011-03-13T21:09:00.000-07:00

So after many years of my kids begging for a dog we finally got one. I never wanted one because I didn't want to be cleaning up pee from the puppy and him chewing up everything in the house. Then I started reading about the crate training and I thought that sounded perfect. So we researched what dog would be best for our family and we decided on a golden retriever.

I found a seller online that had 6 week old pups in Sacramento. So on Friday we went to pet Smart and bought all of the dog supplies and then we were off to Sacramento. We named him Jake and as the little girl on Despicable Me says. . . . He's so fluffy!!!!! He loves the kids and outside and has a very good temperament. The first night I was prepared for the worse but he did so good and only whimpered and barked a few times and we took him out twice to go potty. Actually I say "we" but it was Kaitlyn and Derick who slept downstairs and took him out. We are having so much fun with him and it is so fun to see the kids having a pet that actually plays with them and runs toward them instead of hide from them.
I wouldn't be able to do this however if it wasn't for the crate training. The kids know that when he is in the house he has to stay in his crate and it just kills them. In fact as I write this Taylor just brought him in from outside and instead of getting him right in his crate she just started running around and "Jake" is chasing her. When we put him in the crate he whimpers for a little bit but then is fine.
I'm so glad that we got him and I am excited to see all the fun things we get to do with him.

Just look at that face!!!

Out hamster in his ball rolling around entertained Jake

Jake was so worn out and this is when Brett would get close to him. Brett isn't too fond of him right now since he is cute and cuddly and therefore. . . . competition. Jake loves running after Brett and playing with him but today Brett fell and Jake was licking and jumping on him and BRett was not very happy. Brett's favorite is when Jake is in the crate and he can just look at him.

Brett the ball of fire (Kaitlyn's idea)

2011-03-07T15:45:00.000-08:00

Brett is quite the active little guy. I'm now remembering how Derick was when he was this age. . . . . a handful!!!! He is everywhere, climbing, pulling stuff off, running from me and so on. My girls were definitely easier during this stage and when Derick was this old I was 23, I'm a 10 years older now and I'm exhausted. Be glad I started having kids when I was young because Derick would of been an only child!!! Here's some pictures when it's been nice weather playing outside. Brett climbs up the ladder by himself and slides down. He also loves the tramp and the swing. However our swing set broke and so now we are saving up for a new one. Anyways just wanted to let you know about what little Brett was up to!!!

Sport court is done!!!

2011-03-05T15:02:00.000-08:00

For the past 4 years our side yard has been the mud and "stuff" pit. You know where you put things you don't need and say you'll take it to the dump. Well we finally got it all cleared out and put in concrete. I love it so much however there are a few mud holes around it where we need to put rock and guess who found it and heads straight for it every time HE is outside. Yes you guessed it, Brett!!! Here are some pictures of the process however they are backwards so start from the bottom.

Taylor selling Girl scout cookies

2011-03-05T14:59:00.000-08:00

Taylor is a Daisy and loves it!!! She is selling girl scout cookies this year and the pictures are in front of Safeway. So if you want some cookies give me a call, PLEASE I need to get them out of my house. . . .it's dangerous!

Derick turns 12

2011-03-01T16:45:00.001-08:00

Derick turned 12 last week. He chose to eat at Red Robin for his birthday dinner, then $1.00 ice cream for dessert. He got some church clothes and a suit, and Mario cart for the Wii. Derick is out of primary (for our church) and now in the Deacon's quorum. I forgot to take a picture of him Sunday morning in his new suit (fluffy died and I forgot) so I"ll get one next week. Derick is a good kid and I'm proud to be his mom! I always tell him to not turn "weird" as he gets older and to still talk to me and hang out. He says he will. . . and I believe him.

Fluffy is gone

2011-02-27T11:36:00.001-08:00

It saddens me to say that this morning we found "fluffy" dead. I can't believe how emotional I am about this and the kids are little wrecks. Right when I think the crying is done someone starts up and then before I know it everyone is crying. We had her for 2 1/2 years and she was our first pet. today will have lots of tears. so sad. . . .

Our pet "fluffy"

2011-02-23T20:51:00.000-08:00

I just found these pictures today of fluffy (our pet bunny). The kids talked me into letting fluffy come in the house awhile back, which was fun since fluffy mostly sits there and Brett and the kids can pet her. However after 5 minutes I was done and fluffy was back outside. They were trying to teach her to get on the couch by using a pillow, and then Brett was trying to get on the couch by using fluffy as a step stool. I love our fluffy bunny but I love her even more hopping around our back yard and it it safer for her out there!!!

Brett mastering the stairs

2011-02-17T09:25:00.000-08:00

We took the baby gates down and Brett is flying up and down the stairs. It makes me nervous still so I try to be around him and remind him to "turn around" when he comes down. I love at the end of this video his "super cheesy smile". He's doing that lately where he closes his eyes and smiles really big, it's hilarious!!!

Cabin and Snow

2011-02-15T08:04:00.000-08:00

We went up to the cabin with our friends and had a great time. There was hardly any snow when we got there but the night before we left a storm came in and dumped snow. It was so pretty and the kids had a ball. Olivia when she saw the snow said,"Did santa bring me some presents?" A great trip away!!!

Hangin' in the basket

2011-02-10T11:00:00.000-08:00

I love that Livi Lou and Brett and starting to play together. Olivia just loves playing with him and making him laugh. Brett thinks EVERYTHING Olivia does is hilarious and so he is constantly laughing which makes me smile!!! I took these pic's a couple weeks ago (pre - Livi haircut) they were watching t.v in the clothes basket and cracking up at eachother.

2011-02-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

Olivia had quite the day today. First we went to the hospital to get her cast taken off. Everything looked great but they fitted her with a temp cast that she can take on and off. Her skin was so dry and itchy but she was glad to have it off. As I'm typing this she is in the bathtub soaking and playing. The only annoying thing was bathing her and making sure it didn't get wet. Other than that she never complained, in fact she figured out pretty early on that it is hard and can be used as a weapon against the older kids, nice.

After the Dr. we went to get her hair trimmed. However when we got there she was insisting on getting it shorter like the girls so we did. It is adorable and I love it!!!

This afternoon she had a birthday party with some little friends and had a great time.

Olivia's haircut

2011-02-04T19:03:00.000-08:00

When I took Olivia in for a haircut she said she wanted it shorter like her 2 sisters. So Kelli took off about 6 inches of her blonde beautiful hair. She looks adorable and I'm so glad we cut it.

Olivia's party

2011-02-04T18:57:00.000-08:00

Olivia finished the day with her birthday party. Isn't her hair just so cute!!! I made her a pink cake and she then added some little pet shops on it, VOILA!!! Her and her friends jumped on the tramp filled with balloons, played on the swing set and had alot of fun. It was a beautiful day today so we were able to have the party outside. Olivia is such a sweet girl and I'm glad she had a fantastic birthday!!!

Derick middle school basketball

2011-01-13T20:44:00.000-08:00

Derick made the 6th grade basketball team at Excelsior Middle School. I thought middle school didn't have tryouts and cuts and everyone played, but here it's pretty competitive. He had his first game a few days ago and he was so nervous. After traveling a few times and throwing the ball away he finally settled down a bit. No matter how old I get, I still get excited and nervous for him because I remember exactly how it felt. AHHHH I would love to go back in time and play all over again!!!

It's a New Year!!!!

2011-01-07T10:44:00.000-08:00

I get kind of bugged that we wait until a New Year to change things or make goals, but I guess a New Year means a fresh start so we just tend to do it at this time. Anywho. . . for sometime now I have been thinking about what I do doing the day and what I accomplish. I love being a stay at home mom but I don't make the best use of my time. The number one "time waster" is the computer. I will sit down to do my check book online and next thing you know I've sat here for quite a long time checking others blogs, looking at recipes and a bunch of other random things. Also if I'm bored or not sure of what to do I'll just jump on and waste time.

So this past week I have only gotten on during the day maybe for 10 minutes. I tell you a crazy thing happened, I go so much done. I have more energy, I want to start some projects that I felt I haven't had time for, I listened to the scriptures on my Ipod, played and just hung out with the kids. . . I feel great. It's a great feeling at the end of the day to know that I put the things that I really need to do first instead of feeling bad that I didn't get them done. So my goal is to keep on this and not let the computer take over so much of my time. Happy New Year!!!

New Years Eve

2011-01-05T22:14:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve was filled with my 3 favorite things: Friends, Food, Funky dance moves. The mom's kicked the kids off the Wii Just Dance game so we could show our stuff. It was so much fun to dance to New kids on the block and other AWESOME songs. We laughed pretty hard, and had a blast. Everyone stayed up until midnight so we could bring in the New Year with a parade around our culdesac and lot's of noise from banging pots . . . .thank you Kelli :)

The kids all geared up for the New Year

The Old men playing blokus and contemplating life. . . . the hats look so funny on them.

The ladies in the kitchen around the food. . . . . Can you find Waldo? hint: she's in a white shirt behind the island making a goofy face.. . . . . and her name is Emma!!!

Dance Dance Dance

Christmas day

2011-01-05T22:11:00.000-08:00

Christmas day is always so fun. Playing with all the presents and staying in jammies all day long!!! This year the fun game that everyone played was Wii Just Dance. Taylor creams us in this game since she's just got the hands down. HOWEVER if they were to score on moves and soulfulness I would totally win!!!

Taylor's winter concert

2011-01-05T22:08:00.000-08:00

Here is Taylor before her school music concert.

Jammies for Christmas Eve

2010-12-25T17:54:00.000-08:00

What would Christmas eve be for our family with out matching jammies!!! We even went to target that day and the kids picked out their own slippers. Kaitlyn- pink , little girls - fluffy princess (shocker), Derick and Brett - camo. Derick thought that him and Brett matching was pretty cool!!!

Christmas Eve festivities

2010-12-25T17:46:00.000-08:00

Since we didn't have family coming for Christmas we decided to invite a couple families over for dinner on Christmas Eve. We had dinner, which the kids loved the fancy glasses and we even caught the little girls "clanking" them and seeing cheers. We played the "left, right" present game. Read the nativity with all the kids taking part, and then just hung out and played blokus. The kids loved watching the "santa tracker" and seeing where santa was all night long. What a great night!!!

First Broken Bone

2010-12-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Well it finally happened. After 5 kids, almost 12 years we have our first broken bone. The kids were playing superman and Olivia fell wrong and broke it. We all felt so sorry for her and ooh'd and ahhh'd. She is loving the attention and all the gifts, suckers, hello kitty necklace, princess pillow to rest her arm on and more. Whenever she is asked to help out or clean up she raises her arm and says in the saddest little voice,"I would but I broke my wrist." She gets a cast on Monday and she wants it to be pink and purple. We'll just have to see what they can do.

FHE

2010-12-23T11:24:00.000-08:00

We had Family Home Evening with our friends the other night and watched a movie and hung out. The most fun was watching Brett and their little girl interact with each other. It was so cute and we are secretly planning an arranged marriage.

Can't you just see this cute picture in the slide show at their wedding!!

Piano Recital

2010-12-19T18:01:00.000-08:00

I had my piano recital this last weekend and it was great. My students did so well and I'm so proud of them. It is so rewarding to see kids accomplish things that they didn't think they could. When I gave the recital music to them, some freaked out and said it was too hard. But I told them we'd work through it and sure enough they did. Then you hear them play it so wonderfully and it just makes me smile!!!

FHE Gingerbread village

2010-12-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

We had our friends over for FHE and we made a gingerbread village and had hot cocoa. I've wanted a hot cocoa maker forever and finally I got one. I LOVE IT!!! IT keeps it the right temp and it is so frothy and yummy!!!

Here comes Santa Claus

2010-12-07T00:18:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love Santa pictures. Especially the one below where Brett is hysterical!!! We had our ward Christmas party this last weekend and here are a few pic's. I especially love Olivia's. We've been talking about santa's elves watching and seeing if she is being naughty or nice. Well I think she was a little nervous because she is cuddled up on his lap looking just as sweet as can be. I swear I can read her thoughts, "surely if I act super cute and sweet he'll think I've been good."

Trimming the tree

2010-12-07T00:15:00.000-08:00

My kids love to pull out the decorations, esp. the ornaments. They all think that each one is theirs from when they were a baby. This year I'm going to mark the backs so they all know whose is whose. Derick was obsessed with the lights and wanted lights on everything. He even started putting some up in his room until I kabooshed that.

Picking out the Christmas tree

2010-12-07T00:10:00.000-08:00

We love our fake trees and have had one for almost 10 years. Well this year we decided to get a real tree. We went to a local tree farm that is adorable. Christmas light everywhere, a big bonfire to stay warm, hot cocoa for a quarter, all that stuff. The kids thought it was so cool that we could pick our tree. So we chose one put it on the van and away we went. When we got home Derick cut off some of the lower branches. As we set it up it smelt so good and looked beautiful, then I turned and saw all the needles everywhere. This totally bugs me but James reassured me that our heavy duty car vacuum would pick them up which they did. So far so good, I love the real tree. . . I just hope I say the same after Christmas!!

Thanksgiving break

2010-12-01T16:22:00.000-08:00

For Thanksgiving we went to Grand Junction Colorado to play with my sister and her family. On the way we stopped off in Salt Lake City for a quick stay and refresher with James' brother David and his family. In Grand Junction we had so much fun playing, shopping and just being together. On the way home we got stuck in some bad weather and had to stay overnight in Reno. All and all it was a great week.

The girls were all about the outfits and accessories. I'm hoping my girls grow out of this because it drives me a little nuts.

James and James watched so much football that week. Here they are taking a break (must not be a game on) playing yahtzee with Kaitlyn.

This was at David's house in Utah. They put Brett in this Lego wagon with blankets and they pulled him all around. He even went to sleep one time.

I love this picture. It is so adorable!!!

Mom and Dad's visit

2010-12-01T16:17:00.000-08:00

The first part of November my parents came to visit us from Colorado. They were here a little over a week and even got to see Kaitlyn play some soccer. The last time they saw us was over a year ago when Brett was just born. The kids had alot of fun with them.

Grandma and the girls

It was beautiful weather the first few days and the ice cream truck came by. It's my mom and dad's tradition whenever they hear it to buy some treats for the kids.

Soccer

2010-12-01T16:14:00.000-08:00

Ok I'll play catch up of the last month. First of all Kailtyn's soccer team made the playoffs and then finished in second place. This was her first year playing and she had so much fun. She even scored 2 goals!!!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-07T16:32:00.000-08:00

Halloween this year was a little different since it landed on Sunday and we didn't trick or treat that day but luckily our Ward party the night before rocked!!! We had it out at members property with dinner, parade, scary story, and then trunk or treating. We went over to some friends on halloween for a cool dinner and hanging out. Huge success!!!

Giants world series parade

2010-11-03T17:50:00.000-07:00

James and Derick went with some of our friends into San Francisco today for the 2010 World Series Champions Giants parade. The plan was to ride BART but the lines to get tickets were out the door so they had no other choice but to drive. This was a good thing because James showed them where to park and they came out right where the parade was starting. They were so close to all the players just hanging out waiting for the parade to start. They watched as they got the players up on the trolley's and everything. James is still smiling and Derick said it was just awesome!!! Here are a few pic's James took. Literally a few. James took a total of 12 pictures. If I would of been there there would of been 112!!!

Fear the beard!!!!
Posey is just adorable!!!

Huff

Costumes galore!!!

2010-10-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

My goal this halloween was to not buy any costumes. Having 5 kids we have a ton and this was a year where all I wanted was them to look through our costume bins and pick something. WEll it worked out and is fun to see the little ones in costumes that the older kids wore a few years ago. Since my kids look so alike I love comparing them. I'll post some later of side by side pictures in the same costume to see the similarities.

Brett was Raggedy Andy and Dumbo this year.

Taylor the pirate

Kaitlyn the evil witch. . . lady. . . person thing (whatever)

At our music makers party we all dressed to match. Brett hated the hat so for the pic's I had to hold his hands.

Pumpkin farm

2010-10-26T13:26:00.000-07:00

Caution: there are a whole bunch of pictures!!!
Last weekend we went to a pumpkin patch and had such a fun time. First of all it was the perfect weather, cool, cloudy and perfect!!!
The kids went through the corn maze, fed the goats and other animals, took tons of pic's (who knew that sticking your head through some cardboard scene could entertain the kids for hours!!!

Trying to get all 5 to even look at the camera at the same time is ridiculous!!!

I love this 2nd picture. WHY? because Taylor (only kid looking at camera and smiling) is always the one NOT doing this. I have so many pictures of everyone looking and smiling except Taylor. So this one cracks me up, bless her heart she's doing it!!!!

My lovely girls!!!

Derick and Kaitlyn trying to get the funniest picture. I'd call it a tie, and now I've got blackmail photos.

Brett was not at all sure about the goats. They kept sticking their heads through the fence and it was freaking him out. I took the one above right after one tried to lick him.

while the big kids were in the maze Brett walked around the outside of it yelling. He says a word that means "kids" and he is super loud. He just wanted his brother and sisters to come out and play.

double trouble

Happy Birthday Bretty Boy!

2010-10-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

Brett turned 1 on the 18th and we had a big bash to celebrate.
First of all some facts about Brett.
He is the happiest and cutest baby ever!!!
He has a mouthful of teeth.
At his 1 year appt. he weighed 19lbs. 4 oz. (6%) height was 2' 5.5" (40%)
( I'm just proud that I actually took him in just days after his 1 year mark!!!)
He doesn't like to drink from a sippy.
He doesn't like whole milk so I'm gradually adding it in to his formula.
He has the cheesiest smile and you can barely see his eyes when he does it.
When he wants something he has a high pitched girly scream that is cute right now but will soon be annoying.
He is super mellow and loves to snuggle and read books.

Mom are you kidding me, don't put that on me!

This hat is dumb!!! Take it off!!!

Oh Yeah. . . life is good again!!!

What would I do without good friends!!!

I don't get it. . . what's going on here. . . . there is a chocolate cake right in front of me, within grabbing distance and no one seems to care.

He had his fun, now he's in the tub.

ummmm I just love him!!!

speaking of friends, my friend Kelli is taking the pic's however she is the kind of friend that instead of telling the kids to keep their fingers out of the cake she eggs them on and takes 100 pictures of them doing it, chuckling to herself the whole time!!!!

PRESENTS!!!!

Taylor turns 6

2010-10-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

Taylor had her 1st birthday "friend" party this last week. We had a movie/pajama party, where we decorated the house like a movie theater including a box office, snack shack and all. The girls brought their purses with pennies in them to buy some snacks. It was super easy and they all seemed to have fun!!!
Oh and some more exciting news I've never made a cute cake. I always just do a 9X13 pan cake with sprinkles. . . . or I call Lindsey and she makes me cute cakes. SOOOO this year I bought a round cake pan and tried it. This was my first time and I was really proud. I want to play around with different tips and stuff now. Yay for me!

Football is over

2010-10-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

I love my kids playing sports, but I have to be honest, I love it even more when a season is over. James coached Derick's team this year and they did pretty good. I have a video of big D playing so I'll put that on here soon.

Taylor's first tooth fairy visit!!

2010-10-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Taylor lost a tooth on Sunday 10-10-10. She had been wiggling it for about a week and Sunday I told her it was ready to come out. I told her to go get a tissue and dad would pull it. She had a very concerned look on her face and went in the bathroom got the tissue and pulled it herself. She was so excited to finally lose a tooth. She put it in a baggie and stuck in under her pillow. However the tooth fairy didn't make it that night ( I think her GPS went crazy or something) Anywho the next night she came and left her 2 dollars!!! Very exciting weekend for Tay.

church outfit

2010-10-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

This pic is for my mom who wanted to see Brett's new church outfit. My little boy is going to bee 1 in a week and this outfit is 9 months. With my other ducklings it was the other way around. When they were 6 months old they were in 9 - 12 month clothes (they were super chunky)!!! Taylor wanted in on the picture taking. Funny enough about an hour after I took this picture she pulled her first tooth!!! Just pulled it out with a kleenex, what a brave girl.

Vacation at the cabin.

2010-10-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

So my kids are on a 2 week break and we went up to a cabin for 4 days. It was so much fun esp. since this cabin belongs to a ranch that has many recreation facilities. There was swimming and a water slide where you are right in the woods sliding down, mini golf, tennis, ping pong, badminton and more. Then there is a lake for fishing and swimming where they have life jackets and tons of boats and kayaks for you to use. On Sunday we watched conference and then went exploring after. There is no internet or cell service which was awesome.
Right now the leaves are turning and the foliage was beautiful. We saw tons of deer right next to the road and wild turkey's. All and all it was a great get away for our family.
I forgot my camera when we went to the lake and pool so here is a website to see what it looks like. The great thing is there was no one there so we pretty much had the whole place to ourselves, and the weather was beautiful!!!!
http://www.mountain-cabins.com/rec.html

Finally all put together

2010-10-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

I L-O-V-E love this bed and the bedset. I get a little tired of pink and purple so I wanted something different and that they can grow into (no princesses or Dora) It turned out so cute and I'm ready to tackle my next project. Since this picture I added a queen bed rail so Taylor and Olivia won't fall out. Also a comfy pillow top from Costco. Finally it is done. . . .well except for painting the walls!!!!

Another great find from Craigslist

2010-09-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

So I've been trying to figure out what to do in the girls (Taylor and Olivia's) room. Olivia was sleeping on a toddler bed and for Taylor we moved Kaitlyn's trundle out from under her bed and moved it in Taylor's room. Well they've been sleeping like that for quite awhile but Olivia is too big now for the toddler bed. I thought about bunkbeds but that is an emergency room visit just waiting to happen with those 2 so I've been looking for a queen bed. Me and my sister shared a queen bed so why not my 2. I found this maple one below for $50. It is super solid and I love the chunky posts. I painted it white as well as a dresser that I had to match. Last night was the first night that they slept in it. All the kids were excited so they watched a movie all together in it!!!

All about Brett

2010-09-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

This post is all about Brett. He is now 11 months and is my favorite child right now!!! However he is starting to be naughty: by screaming, pulling books off the shelves, climbing up the stairs, pulling toilet paper off the roll. . . . . you get the picture. However he is so stinkin cute and is a very good baby. Here are some pic's of him.

He just started watching TV. There is a show called Hi 5 that when it is on he loves to watch. I found him right up close today and I had to snap a pic, he looked so cute.

Peek a boo!!

Yeah naughty in action pulling off all the books, but then looking adorable as I take the picture.

Olivia riding a 2 wheeler

2010-09-18T20:50:00.000-07:00

Olivia jumped on our neighbors bike today and just started riding around, so we took her training wheels off her bike and that was that!!! She's riding around like a pro!

Brett walking!!!!

2010-09-14T09:59:00.000-07:00

mOM NEEDS a TiMEouT

2010-09-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

This last weekend me and my friends went to "Timeout for Women" in Sacramento, CA. The themes for this year was "hope". It is sponsored by Deseret Book, whick is a bookstore that sells LDS music, books and a whole lot more. There were fabulous speakers and musicians over the 2 day conference. We stayed at the Sheraton right across the street from the Convention Center and had a ball. We were able to go up early so we could shop and hang out. It was so much fun and we're already looking to go to the next one in April. For me it was the perfect "recharger" to figure out what areas I need to work on to become a better wife, mother, and so much more.

No kids..... PLUS jammies...... PLUS chocolate eclair in bed....... EQUALS Heaven!

Kjersti could not find a working vending machine to get a Diet Pepsi

"Laboring" on Labor Day

2010-09-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

James' parents came up this weekend to visit and to help with moving our fence. We wanted to move it up to give our side yard more space for a shed. I played the role of shade patrol and babysitter, while the others did most of the hard labor. It was pretty warm but everyone pitched in and we got it done late Monday night around 11:30. (I was in bed reading but that was when the sound of hammers and saws stopped)