Time Flies...

2011-08-13T20:33:00.000-07:00

Utah Lake

Paige's first day out on the boat.

Heather and Chuck were of course nervous, and protective, and worry warts about their little girl but she did awesome!!!

She slept in the special baby spot... at Mark's feet.

Iree and her Daddy... she is growing up so fast.

Jacob always wanting to drive or mope... I can't remember what it was this time.

Nice clean Utah Lake water... it was warm and refreshing!

The kids rode on the tube for over an hour... they were laughing so hard, standing, doing flips and falling in. Today was a good, good day!!

Odie watching over his kids...

We took Odie out on the tube and it didn't turn out so good. Every time we hit a bump he would go flying... I was holding on to his life jacket but he was ready to get back on the boat quick.

Paige all decked out!!

The boys (Mark, Chuck and Jacob) went for a tube ride and I dumped them twice... Now I am nervous for my next ride. Revenge!!

2011-08-08T13:04:00.000-07:00

Heber Valley Camp

Todd set up a weekend at the Heber Valley Camp for our family. It was such a blast. We stayed in these nice cabins on bunks and had fun doing the challenge courses, canoeing, playing volleyball and sitting around the fire. We also had plenty of deer walk through our camp and the host told us that last week a bear was in our camp so we were always on alert... watching for the bear. I only have pictures of the challenge course and then my card was full.

The whole group getting their gear on and getting the instructions...

Jacob climbing the pole... he was super excited!

Getting ready to take the zip line down...

They all loved the ride down.

The hosts were all amazed that Mason was attempting this... they kept saying they had never had a kid this young try it and have fun... He zipped right up the pole faster than most of the others.

He walked across the pole with out a second thought.

The Sister Missionary got him all hooked up and ready for the zip line. She had already had to push two crying kids down but Mason just jumped off the ledge with no hesitation... should I be worried?

He happily brought the zip line back up to the top... what a stud!!

2011-08-08T12:49:00.000-07:00

Whiting's Campground

Maple Canyon

With all the cousins in town we wanted to go have a hot dog roast up the canyon. It always turns into crazy fun!!!

2011-08-04T14:20:00.000-07:00

Utah Lake

Andy and his family are always up for a day on the lake. We love having these cute kids along for a ride.

Andy and his little cutie Karolyn.

Odie's favorite spot... this way he can jump in and save anyone who might need help.

Karolyn is always willing to try new things... she did so good. I love showing all of these kids how fun surfing can be.

Andy and Joseph having a good time.

2011-08-04T14:08:00.013-07:00

Rink Hockey Nationals!!!

Team Salt Lake City

We took Bronze!!!

So this was an adventure... A good friend plays on team SLC... they were in desperate need for a goalie for the National tournament which happened to be in SLC this year... so she asked me... What a blast.

This was seriously one of the hardest things I have ever done both mentally and physically. I trained for 2 months and then played in the tournament without ever playing in a game. Our team did great!

2011-08-04T14:08:00.011-07:00

Paige's Blessing Day
July 3rd, 2011

Yep... we are a pretty good sized group!!!
Here we are just at the Oquirrh mountain Temple.

Proud mama and papa!

2011-04-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

Heather's baby shower

Family, friends and fun... and also a ton of baby stuff!!!!

Heather and Wanda back to back...

Heather with Aunt Debbie and Grandma Horton

The Food... always yummy!

2011-04-21T12:35:00.000-07:00

Pinewood Derby

2011-04-21T12:34:00.000-07:00

Nap

This is pretty much me every day once the kids are in bed... Odie keeps me warm! After my little cat nap Mark and I usually end up staying up until 1:00 am and doing it all over the next day.

2011-04-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

My Little Baker

Iree is always and I mean always asking to make a dessert... Here is one of her creations... frozen pie crust helps :)

She decided on cherry because it is Dad's favorite.

She cut out the hearts to make it pretty...

And... the finished product... baby alive (claire) is never too far away.

2011-04-21T12:24:00.001-07:00

Iree's missing a tooth!!!

She was so excited! The tooth fairy came that night and left her some $.

It just reminds me of how fast she is growing up!!

2011-03-06T19:45:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day,

This was our "romantic" dinner with the kids... German pancakes, chocolate oranges and orange juice. Then I had to run off to volleyball...
I love my family... I don't need one day only to show them that... but a little reminder here and there can't hurt.

2011-01-09T16:31:00.000-08:00

9 year olds are a blast!!!

Each Saturday Jacob has a bball game and afterwards he and his two buddies usually spend the day together... this Saturday it was at our house!!

Jacob got this experiment kit from his grandpa so the boys wanted to give it a try...

The first attempt didn't work so well because they didn't screw the cap on tight enough... there was a big sigh when the diet coke just fizzed out... I ran to the store and grabbed another soda so they could do the experiment again....

This time success!!!

They all thought that was pretty cool... They even got sticky from the explosion!

Here is the video...

Enjoy!

2011-01-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

U of U Gymnastics

A friend gave us some tickets to the U of U Gymnastics meet. Mark and I thought it would be fun to do a special little date night with Iree. She got to pick out a place to eat (panda of course) and then spend time with her "cool " parents.

I have never been to a gymnastics meet... It was super cool... Iree's favorite was the uneven bars, mine has to be the balance beam... I cringe the whole way through the routine... they are so talented and amazing. We beat the defending champs UCLA... !!!

The Eagle was funny... he was chucking popcorn at the crowd and then ducking when they looked up... people were all getting mad until they realized it was the eagle. Iree thought that was hilarious. She was also very happy when she got to have popcorn and dibbs... yummy!

We all had a great time!

2011-01-09T16:23:00.000-08:00

Ice Skating

Mace is doing great...

I didn't have to hold him at all this time... He skated around and around all by himself.

Smiles!!! It was fun to have both Nash and Kylie with us... things are always better with friends.

The boys playing hockey.

We brought sandwiches for lunch... I loved that Mace couldn't even see but he didn't care because he had his sandwich.

2011-01-09T16:18:00.000-08:00

Jacob and Nash Snowboarding

They made a big jump and spent the whole day outside perfecting their skills. These two have a blast together.

I saw a few nice crashes!!! Ouch!

Blurry but he got a little air...

Nash hitting a jump.

2011-01-03T12:42:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!

I am so excited for 2011...

Every year gets better and better!!

I love change, I love making new goals... I have a long list!!!

I hear so many people say they are sad to see the time pass... not me... Time Flies and I love it!!! I love that my kids are growing and changing constantly... I love every minute of it! We are having so much fun as a family and I look forward to having just as much fun and adventure this year.

Mark and I went skiing/snowboarding on New Years Day with Austin, Kendra, Derrik, and Chuck... It was great! We did the night ski because it was half price and we are always looking for a deal. It was super cold!!! -4 degrees.... my toes and nose went numb, my fingers were stiff but it was all worth it. So fun having some time to hang out with Markos, It was our first "date night" in a long time, we always have a good time.

2010-12-25T21:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning

Mark bartered with the kids until they all decided on 7:30 am. ; this is when the kids can come wake us up so we can go downstairs and see what Santa brought for them.

Jacob was standing next to my bed at 4:00 am... I told him to go back to sleep... then he woke me up again at 7:00 am... Mark told him to go back to sleep... finally 7:30 am... we all got up and enjoyed the morning!

Does someone look excited!!!!

Iree was sewing all morning... she made 4 bookmarks and 3 purses... she loves it!

Jacob was making all sorts of project with the snap circuit set...

We all had a great Christmas... Fun and low key!!!

Thinking about our Savior's birth and what an amazing gift he is to all of us. It is great to see the kids starting to understand the meaning behind Christmas and knowing that the best gift we can give to Jesus is to follow his example by being kind, loving, and following his teachings.

We headed to my parents for dinner and games with family...

What a Great Day!

Happy Birthday Dave!

2010-12-24T21:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve

Kids in PJs, can't wait to go to bed!!!

We played a family game of Monopoly... It can get pretty vicious!!

Chuck was king!!!!

Time for bed.

Jacob read the Christmas Story out of the Scriptures...

After the story the kids laid out their stockings, left cookies and carrots for Santa, and checked the Santa tracker to make sure he hadn't skipped over us.

2010-12-21T10:09:00.000-08:00

Snowman!

The perfect packing snow calls for a snowman... After we got the older kids off to school Mace and I shoveled the walks and then just had to make a snowman.

Odie thought it was a person and wouldn't stop barking and digging... we will see how long our snowman stands with Odie determined to take it down.

2010-12-21T09:37:00.000-08:00

Ireland's Dance (Tap) Recital

She was a super excited...and a little nervous! The dance company she goes to is huge... they have tons of dance classes and that makes for a whole aditorium filled with eyes watching her... Not her favorite thing.

Show Time!!

And the big finish!

She did great!!! What a cutie!!!

So I learned a big lesson as a Mom (A Dance Mom that is)... I know most of you wouldn't have made this mistake but I Did!! Whoops! Big Whoops!

After the show... every girl, and I mean every little girl was holding a bouquet of flowers... As I was going to the back to get Iree after the show I was getting a little sick to my stomach, hoping she wouldn't notice I didn't have any to give her...
After I gave her a hug and told her how great she did she said, "Mom, why does everyone get flowers except for me?"

Ahh!!!! Ok, I feel like the worst mom of the year!!!

I told her we better hurry to the car because Daddy was taking us to go pick up her flowers... she smiled and was excited to go.

When we got to the car Mace said in a nice little voice, "Iree you did a good job." That made everyone smile.

Here they are... she loves them and put them in a vase in her room... I won't make that mistake again. I am a little air heady when it comes to this dance thing but I will never forget the flowers again... Never!!!

Here is her little number... she is to the right on the back row...

Enjoy!

2010-12-21T09:18:00.000-08:00

Alex's Graduation!!!

Mark went to Colorado for a quick trip to see his little sis Alex Graduate from College!!! She got her bachelors in Marketing... Isn't she the cutest!!! It is crazy to see her all grown up. When I first met her she was a little 13 yr. old that didn't like me taking all Mark's attention!

Now, she is a beautiful grown up woman, graduating from college and has a bright future ahead of her... Good luck on the job hunt... Who wouldn't hire this smart, cute lady?!

2010-12-21T08:47:00.000-08:00

Cousin Fun

I had the Perry kids for a few hours while Kevin and Michelle did a little Christmas shopping... We made good use of the new fallen snow.

Scott is a pro at snowboarding on the sled.

Sunny was having a blast too.

Sawyer has the best smile... this tube dumped him every time and he would just trek back up and do it again.

Scott and Mace tried to go fast and reach the finish line at the bottom... they got closer each time.

Sunny and Scott and the double snowboard.

Girl Fort...

Boy Fort...

After the snow the older kids had the TV playing the Wii so we set up a little tent theater for the little ones to watch a movie. Cozy!

2010-12-19T20:45:00.000-08:00

Kirby Christmas Party 2010

14 Adults...

23 Kids...

Sleepover...

Endless Yummy Food...

Dessert...Candy... Chocolate!

Chaos... Games... Presents... Pajamas...Fun... Family.

We look forward to this night the whole year.

Grandma and Grandpa Kirby and all 23 grand kids...

(Paige is cooking in Heather's tummy, she'll be here next year.)

Around the World Ping-Pong can get pretty silly!!

Grandma and Grandpa always have pajamas for all the kids... the kids have to answer a question from Grandpa before they get to open their present.

Mason's question was, "Who is the mother of Jesus?" Mason knew that one, "Mary."

The kids sat with their present and then did a mass opening. Paper and boxes were flying everywhere.

Of Course the first thing Jacob and Parker do...

But they're not the only ones... silly kids!!!

It was Michelle's Birthday so we sang a little song and had some Boston Cream Pie... Yummy!

The Boys...

Kid gift exchange was a first... we thought for sure there would be tears as they stole gifts from one another...

They all did great... no crying...and all smiles!

Iree and Sammy doing what they do best!

2010-12-19T20:21:00.000-08:00

Aww!!

A moment like this always makes me smile!

These two don't always get along so when I see this I have to document it.

It must be Christmas time!

2010-12-15T10:33:00.000-08:00

$5 well spent!!!

Every time Mace and I go grocery shopping he sees this little shovel...

He has asked for it many times, he has even thrown tantrums but I always said no!!!

The other day... he didn't even ask... so, I told him to go pick out a shovel...

he was so excited, he couldn't believe I let him get it!!!!

We have had it for three snow storms and he has been out there helping me every time... today the snow wasn't very deep so we finished quickly...but he spent another 30 min doing all the neighbors... he loves it and I am sure the neighbors did too!

I am finding that Mace is becoming a very hard worker...

I love spending time with my little guy.

2010-12-13T21:30:00.000-08:00

Jr. Jazz Basketball

It's the start of another basketball season...

I love watching Jacob play ball. His goal today was to make more than 2 baskets in this game... He made 12 of the 16 points...

#47

I am super proud... but, we did have to have a little chat about passing. (This I have to blame on Mark!!!! For those of you who know how competitive he is you must realize how competitive our little boy is becoming. ) His response to my "passing" question was..., "Coach told me to shoot if I was open! I was open a lot..." my response... , "Buddy, It is great to win and make shots but is more important to be a team player. You need to pass... If they pass back then you can shoot. " I think it took, he really does listen to our suggestions... so hopefully he can learn to balance his competitive nature and being a team player.

He is one of the taller boys so he naturally gets put in as center... It is the perfect spot to get rebounds... so fun to watch... I am so impressed at how the whole team has improved so much from last year. Good Job Boys!!!!

2010-12-13T21:26:00.000-08:00

One of those "Mommy Moments"

So I wasn't going to post this but I just looked over some old blog posts from a few years ago and loved reading about the funny things... so I think this one is a worth while mom memory!

If you don't like poop stories don't finish reading this.

Mark had a Volleyball tournament this weekend... so I packed the kids up with some toys, DS, food, and drawing stuff so they could last the evening. We made our camp in the bleachers and I noticed that I left the camera in the car... I told the kids to stay put while I went to get the camera... I got back 5 minutes later. In those 5 minutes DISASTER happened!!! I get back to the bleachers to see all my kids missing... then I see Iree and Jacob running toward me yelling "Mace went Poo in the bathroom" Everyone in the bleachers turn their heads and laughed a little. I wasn't too worried... he still has me wipe so I thought that was all I had to do... Jacob then goes on to say, "He has it all over his hands!!!" at this point I am getting worried...I start running toward the MEN'S restroom, because that's where Jacob took him.

As I got to the door I could hear him crying and one of the volleyball players was in there saying, "It's okay... your mom is coming." I poked my head in and asked the guy if it was okay to come in... he said he would stand guard... Mace was standing with his pants down and poop in them... plus all over his hands and toilet seat. This never happens to him... he never has accidents so I couldn't put together what happened... I asked him, "what happened buddy"...he replied, "I just can't to anything right." talk about break my heart! Jacob came in and explained that Mace told him he had to go...they went to the MEN'S restroom and Mace went in and locked his door...It happened to be a tall toilet and he couldn't get up... He told Jacob to help him but he couldn't unlock the door and then he couldn't hold it any longer... then he tried to clean it up but as any 4 year old would do... he made a huge mess.

We were an hour from home... no extra clothes... and hours or watching volleyball still to go. I cleaned him up... threw his pants, underwear, and socks in the trash (Mace thought that was hilarious) and tied Jacob's sweatshirt around him. We went back up to our spot in the bleachers... The kids wanted to go play in the boxing room but I wasn't about to let Mace run around in a sweatshirt skirt that would fall off at any moment. When Mark was done with his first game I raided his bag in hopes of finding something that would work for Mace... He had extra undies!!!

So Mace ran around in Mark's undies for the rest of the night... I tied them tight with my hair tie and walla... instant shorts...

While these things are happening it is not so fun... but I love looking back and laughing at all the mommy moments we have...

I love being a mom!!!!

2010-12-13T21:25:00.000-08:00

Yes this is Mark...

And no... this isn't an old picture of when we were dating... It was 2 days ago!!!

Yikes!!!

These crazy UVU Alumni Guys always have crazy ideas of what to wear the first night of a tournament... this tournaments theme... Star Wars/ Short Jean Shorts / 80's...

So here is what we came up with for Mark....

He needed a haircut anyway so I just gave him a Mohawk for the evening... The kids were so so so embarrassed!!!

This is day two... hair cut and normal clothes... Mark said it was a little easier to play without the tight jeans... I Bet!!!

Line Shot!!!

2010-11-29T08:48:00.000-08:00

Enjoying the Snow!!!!

We have had some pretty big snow storms the last week...

I love winter when there is snow. I love how clean everything looks and I love that our sledding hill is just out the front door. No more packing up the car... I just push them out the door.

We have been having a blast!!!

Jacob attacking Mark... Snowball fights never end good!

Mace is sledding all on his own... He even hauls his own tube or sled up the hill... He stays out here for hours with Jacob... No injuries Yet!!

This jump dumps him every time. At first I went running down to make sure he was alright... he said, "Mom, that was awesome!!!!" Now I just watch and cringe a little every time he hits it.

The Fam... even Odie. We love when daddy can hang out with us!!!

This is Odie's Christmas present from the kids... they convinced me to give it to him early... I am such a push-over!!! I was a little embarrassed dressing up my dog, I am usually laughing at other people when the pamper their pets... I guess he is really part of the family now.

Dad going for a ride...

Mace loves being out here... always all smiles!!

Penguin Style!!!

I always fit in my turn... I still love it!

Man, I love my family... aren't they cute?!!!

Dad taking his turn.

Sandwich!!!!

Odie wants to jump on the pile...

2010-11-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving

We went to my mom's this year... good food and family like always!!

Me, Heather and the kids slept over and then Mark and Chuck joined us on Thanksgiving. They went to the Jazz game the night before and has fun with the boys.

Cards and Boggle...

Our cousin has a new little baby... I loved holding the little cutie and Iree wanted a turn also... Mace asked me a few times if we were taking her home... I think he was nervous watching me give so much attention to the baby... No worries Mace... your my baby!

2010-11-15T23:16:00.000-08:00

U of U Volleyball Tournament.

Mark played in a tournament this weekend against all the college club teams. UVU, Utah State, U of U, Air Force, Smash, and a few others.

I think he is finally back after that horrible shoulder surgery.

We had Lasca with us for the weekend. The kids love having her around. Bend-a-rooo's are the best gym toy ever!

I love watching good volleyball...

2010-11-15T23:03:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Patch

We got in our yearly visit to the pumpkin patch... The kids always love pushing around the little wheel barrows and picking out their very own pumpkin.

They have all sorts of farm equipment for pictures... here is a horse trailer... the kids thought it was great to jump inside.

What to pick... what to pick...?

Mace and Odie.

Mace Man.

2010-11-15T22:53:00.000-08:00

Halloween "FUN"

I think I have expressed in the past my "love" (dislike) for Halloween... I think this one just confirmed my opinion of the holiday.

My week was crazy... Iree and Jacob each had 4 separate events they had to get dressed up and take candy to... Mace had 3. By Friday I was already sick of the costumes and so were the kids...

This picture is on Friday morning before school... Jacob instructed me that I needed to do it tighter this time because when he walked it got loose at the other parties he had been to... I started to wrap tight. I was running out of time and asked Iree to go wake dad up to help... when he got down Jacob was saying he didn't feel good... he then started to panic and say, "mom, cut it off!!! cut it off!!!" and then he passed out right into Mark's arms... I quickly took scissors and cut the whole thing off when he came to he puked all over my bare feet... did I mention I "love" Halloween.

Mark and I cleaned everything up and I threw the hours of sewing in the trash. He felt back to normal after he got some air and food... and luckily had a Bronco uniform that he could through on and head to school. No more Mummies!

Here is Iree at the school Halloween Parade...

The Bronco feeling better.

I failed to take pictures at the rest of the events but Mace was a viking...

2010-11-15T22:28:00.000-08:00

UV Alumni Weekend

I met up with a bunch of the UV girls for dinner and to watch the UVU vs. BYU volleyball game. We always have a blast catching up and laughing. I tried to convince all these old ladies to play in the alumni game but they say they are retired... come on!!!

We always have a blast playing in the UV Alumni game... Good Volleyball and again, lots of laughs.

2010-11-15T22:27:00.000-08:00

Sunday Afternoon Walk

I love the look of golden grass in pictures so we went on our Sunday afternoon walk and took our photographers Chuck and Heather with us as always... I like a few of the shots... this is my favorite.

I wish they would invent an invisible tape to hold my eyes open when I smile... Oh well, it's just me...

My handsome Jacob

My Little Mason in growing up so fast!!!

Iree and I... she had to have her flower on display.

My awesome family!!!

My little clone... Iree.

My boys.

2010-11-15T22:11:00.000-08:00

Hockey Saturdays

Mark's Hockey league started up again... the kids and I love watching daddy play.

#99 is a great number and easy for Mace to pick out... He kept saying, "there's double nine, there's double nine!"

Mace Man!!

Spence and Jacob...

Iree, always finding a corner and building a "hut" even at a hockey game.

Mark in a face-off.

2010-11-15T21:58:00.000-08:00

Burley ID, Again...

After our last visit to Michelle's house the kids have been begging to go back... I grabbed Julie and her boys and went back up for a few days... We had a blast just hanging around the house... I only broke out the camera on our little excursion through the fields.

Here is a neighbor who has llamas... the kids loved seeing these crazy animals up close.

It is so crazy... No mountains just fields as far as you can see.

Here is Michelle's house... a little different from my neighborhood where I can look out my window and see what the neighbors are having for dinner.

Sawyer and Mace trying to keep up.

Iree loving being at her cousins... she loves hanging with Sunny and Sammy.

2010-11-15T21:37:00.000-08:00

Fall Flag Football

Jacob is loving this game...

He begs us constantly to play tackle... our deal with him is, "You start eating meat... you can play tackle." We are taking baby steps... he does eat chicken when forced. Not totally sure if a few bites of chicken count... so we are still working on our decision.

Does laughing make you run faster?

Mace practicing his kick-off skills.

He loves being quarterback and the coaches let him run a few passing plays... he got a few touch downs this way but scored plenty with his quarterback sneak.

Here are two video's of touchdowns... I'm a proud mama!

2010-11-06T23:48:00.000-07:00

Yellowstone

With kids off track, and amazing weather I decided last minute to take off to Yellowstone. Mark couldn't go because of work so I called my Mom and asked if she would be ready to go in the morning early... of course she said yes... she is always up for a vacation.

Our first stop was in Idaho Falls... we got out at the Idaho Falls Temple Park and had a picnic...

Our first animal documented was this squirrel... the kids wanted me to have pictures of every animal and bird we saw.

Mace saw this old train across the street and had to go see it... he is still obsessed with trains!!!

This is the temple that Mom and Dad were married in... the falls are beautiful also.

On to Montana.... Yay almost there!!!

Our first stop was the Bear and Wolf Sanctuary...

We could see the wolves and bears up close... the wolves eyes are crazy if you look right into them!!

When we started in the park we first spotted some elk... we were pretty close along with 20 other people and then the elk started bugling and took off charging into the trees. Glad it wasn't us he was charging.

Mace balanced on every log in the park... we were always waiting for him to come along!!!

Mace was mesmerized by the steam vents and hot pots... he would just wait and stare until one of them blew... He loved it!

Some kind of Crane... document it!

That night we headed to the pool... it had this great slide the kids loved... what a great way to end the day.

All bundled up and ready to go to bed!!!

We went back to the sanctuary to see them feeding the Grizzlies... We saw the wolves again while we waited.

The Grizzlies are massive... and so strong... the people hid meat and bones all over their enclosure and this bear would move logs and boulders like they were pebbles. Amazing!!!

They had a Tee-Pee set up for the kids to see... Mace thought that was pretty cool.

Swan... again documenting...

Canadian Geese

More balancing...

Steam vents and mud pots.

Having fun being together...

Jacob and Mace looking over the valley... steam vents everywhere.

A bird... :)

Chipmunk

Different kind of chipmunk.

Hawk

Beautiful waterfall

I loved this crazy rock formation...

An then the highlight of the trip... we saw a real wild Black Bear... The kids were so excited and so were mom and I... we even broke the rules and stopped in a place where we weren't supposed to stop... We just had to get a picture... It was only about 50 ft from the road.

Mace got a sliver in his finger from a hand rail... he was so whiny... some people saw me and mom trying to get out the sliver and they came over to help... The guy started talking to him and pulled up his shirt to show Mason this massive scar on his chest... I was like gross !!!! Then his wife took the needle from me and started digging at his sliver... meanwhile another lady started pinching him saying, "It will make the pain go away." I was almost laughing out loud at these people but they got it out and we could move on with our vacation. Fun Times!!!

Mammoth Falls... This was one of my favorite spots... It looks so fake!

Goofy Kids... I think they are about driving my mom nuts at this point!

Elk traffic jam.

He casually moved in his own sweet time and started munching grass on the other side of the road.

We followed this guy for a good 10 minutes... I tried to pass a few times but he looked me in the eye and I backed off.

River Otters... I saw people pulled over looking at something so I followed suit and saw these cute little animals... these weren't even on the kids check list. Bonus!!!

Love this scene... Just beautiful!

And this one could be a postcard... Mommy, Baby and Daddy!

Painters Pots

And finally Old Faithful... they had a really cool exhibit inside for the kids... lots of hands on experiments... they loved it.

Old Faithful didn't let us down... there she blows!!!

After old faithful we headed home... I wanted to drive back through Jackson Hole... man it made for a long drive home... But the Grand Tetons were beautiful and the drive down the snake river brings back memories of the river run days... I loved the trip!

2010-11-06T22:55:00.000-07:00

Jacob's Birthday

This is a little lame but this is the only picture I have of his birthday... this is what he chose to have for dinner!!! I thought it was funny so I took the pic.

Mac & Cheese and Corn on the Cob

This is what I failed to take a picture of...

I told him he was getting too old to have a friend birthday party but he could ask his closest buddies to go do something fun. We went to classic fun center and had a blast... the kids played and I read, read, read, for 4 hours...I loved it!!! Then we came home and he wanted mac & cheese for dinner and an ice cream cake...
He of course got some Bronco gear and then some science stuff like a gyroscope and a marble labyrinth... He had a great day!!
I am so proud of who he is becoming... Man I love my boy!!

2010-11-06T22:10:00.000-07:00

Burley, ID

Here we come!!!

Off to visit Kevin and Michelle

Mace and Sawyer little super heroes riding their bikes...

Super Cute!

Mace thought it was pretty cool to ride on dirt!

This poor kitten's legs didn't touch the ground the whole time we were visiting...

Kevin set up the pitching machine and the boys had a blast... I even jumped in and took a few swings... boy am I rusty.

Iree and Sammy walking the kittens... they made bead collars for them... and hooked Odie's leashes up... these poor kittens didn't know what to do.

We took the boat out for a few hours on the Snake River... It is so beautiful here... the houses on the river have it great!!

While pulling us on the tube the boat hit a sand bar/gravel bar and came to a dead stop in a few inches of water... Mark was fuming... that ended the boat trip and we went back to survey the damage.

Ouch... The prop took a big hit... good thing this was the last trip of the year!

Kevin got out the guns and Scott and Jacob shot for hours... everything from bb guns, shot guns, a 22, and a 357 Magnum. Jacob was in heaven.

While playing baseball in the dark... Jacob took a ball to the eye!!! We thought it would go black but it never did.

We shot some family pictures for Michelle while we were there... we rushed to get all the kids ready, dressed and situated and took some great shots only to come in and see that none of them turned out because they were over exposed... We had to do it all over in the evening but I think we got some great shots... Seriously these guys have the cutest kids ever!!!

These boys are so cute... I love it!!!

Best Buddies!

We didn't see much of the girls the whole trip... they were here in their hideout with the kittens.

It was my birthday while we were up there... Michelle made a cake and Mark put the fruit on... The best present ever... getting to go hang out with my sister and her awesome family.

When we got home the kids were asking when we get to go back...

2010-11-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

Lake Powell

Labor Day 2010

Now this was an adventure!!!

I have to start packing and planning at least a week in advance... My list of to-do's usually fill up a couple of sheets of paper... this trip especially camping with 14 peeps with one boat for 5 days... was going to take some smart planning...

We had a little glitch in our planning when Mark decided to take the YM out on the lake the night we had to leave... so after he got back and we packed the boat our caravan ended up leaving at 11:00 PM...Not exactly the ideal time to start a 7 hour drive!! I ended up driving until 3:00 AM with the help of Mountain Dew and Harry Potter on CD... Mark drove the rest of the way... we arrived in Page at 6:00 AM gassed up and got on the lake by 7:00 AM... We beat the houseboat traffic and had a pretty smooth ride. After setting up camp, eating, and playing a little we ended up going to bed at 8:30 that night... it was sure needed!

We had 14 people, Odie, our puppy, and all of our camping gear, sleeping stuff, clothes, food, water, gas, life jackets and wake boards/surfboards. This all needs to fit on the boat with all 14 people as we drive 1 1/2 hours into the most remote part of the lake... I didn't take a picture but I am sure we looked CRAZY...

Here is are awesome set up... we made some major renovations... with Andy aboard he always has a project in mind ... I am sure Dad would be proud that we moved so much rock and dirt with a little shovel and rake... Nice and flat for next year!

Heather cooking in the kitchen... many meals made on these little stoves.

My favorite spot again!!!

Clear Creek Canyon... I love this place... the rope ladder was broken so only me, Jacquelyn, and Jacob scaled up the rock... I took them back to the "black hole of death" and Jacob almost slipped in. One of these times I am going to say "so and so slipped in to the black hole of death" It just has to happen, we have had so many close calls. My goal is to make it back to the 6th waterfall... maybe next year.

3 roof ruins... we did this hike in the heat of the day and it was like death... everyone couldn't wait to get back to the lake and jump in to cool off....

Mom and her stick... I think this stick saved her a few times.

The tube is always a hit with the kids... we spend half of our time pulling these smiling faces around!

Our little daily visit to the spa... The little girls loved all the primping!!!

Joe and Mace

Andy got up surfing with his kids... So fun!!

Joe is always striking a pose... Love the hair!!!

Jacob is now begging for his turn... No more forcing... I love it!

Jackie did great at everything... she is going to make a great surfer and wake boarder.

Um... I think he is having fun, don't you!!!

A little daring... don't fall!!!!!

They liked to fly...

Mark perfecting his surfing... his 360 is way cool.

Still my favorite although the wake kite is sneaking up... It is way fun to catch some air.

Heather surfing through the short-cut...

Chucko always patient waiting his turn on the goofy side!

I just love the faces...

There is some air... I think we lost one of them on this jump!

Iree getting a little too daring and fell right off the back... we all know what drama followed here!!! Joseph even jumped in after her and then Wanda went in after him... It was hilarious.

We celebrated Mark and Mason's birthdays with a Twinkies cake, balloons, dirt, bead-head, and the beautiful lake... not too bad eh!

Andy and Wanda enjoying the beautiful lake and weather!

My little dare devil jumping of a 30 foot cliff at the Cathedral... I am afraid that he enjoys this a little too much... scary!!!

I have yet to be on a Powell trip were we haven't had to pull out the super glue or liquid band aide to repair some gruesome injuries... Andy's whole skin on his big toe blistered from the hot rock and peeled off... he looks like he is smiling but that was all for the picture... he was actually in tears... ouch!!!

Now that's a vacation!!!

Just a little afternoon nap!!

Mom was a trooper... I think she loved it but I highly doubt that she ever comes camping at Powell with us again... She did the hikes, got in the water even though she is terrified of it and slept with my stinky kids and puppy for 5 days...

Mark and I double surfed... It was a blast even though when we crashed Mark plowed me into the water pretty hard!!

Hang Ten!!!!!

Mark and Jacob surfing it up!!

Mark and Iree loving the wave... Iree is our little surfer!!!

More jumping... they love it and I just don't really see why... I always get water up my nose.

Odie did great!!! He was only 4 months old but did great... he is a good swimmer but isn't that excited about it yet... I am sure he will like it more when he gets older.

And More Jumping...

We ended the trip at the sand hill and had a blast... no pictures though... we were having too much fun. This was a great trip... Great place, Great company!!!

2010-11-06T13:37:00.000-07:00

Iree Turns 6!!!

Iree has changed so much in the last year... school has been great for her!!! She loves reading, writing and anything to do with school... most of her free time is used up writing notes to Mark and I or playing school with her friends...

She is a best friend to Mason... they can play for hours and hours and have a great time... They do leave a big messy trail of huts and little compounds built all over the house but I guess I can't complain too much because they sure have fun!!!

She got roller blades and pads for her birthday... she loves them!!! The last little while she and Mace would each wear one of Mark's roller blades and roll around the house... these fit a little better!

She had a jewelry party with her friends... they were all excited and had fun but next time I will recruit a little more adult help... I couldn't keep up with these girls and tying knots and clasps on... I didn't even take a picture with all her friends when the party was going on.

Iree's was a great help setting it all up and picking out the beads.

I am so proud of her and how great she is turning out to be... can't wait to see what she becomes!

2010-09-08T10:53:00.000-07:00

Demolition Derby

Total Red Neck Fun and well worth it...

We had a night of cheering, ohhs and ahhs watching these cars destroy the others...

Mace was in Heaven!!!

We will have to make this a yearly event... so fun!!!

2010-09-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Herriman High Mustangs

Mark is in the Young Men's Pres... He has some great boys to work with and loves it. Some of his boys are on the Herriman High team... Our kids will be going to Herriman High when they get older... This is a brand new school and the first game ever... We took the kids and cheered on Tanner and Derek... so fun!

2010-09-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

A little scare and a big scar!

I'll try not to bore you but for my journaling purposes I have decided to include lots of info in my posts.

Mark and I don't have the best skin, we both remember having burnt blistered skin as kids and to top that we are constantly in the sun boating or playing volleyball. Not the best for our skin type... we now wear sun shirts and plenty of sunblock!

I had noticed a spot/mole on my hand a few months back... I don't really like doctor appointments so I just kept putting it off... I honestly kept thinking to myself, "I better go in, I know this isn't good, I am sure it is cancer... why not me?... crap like this happens to everyone else around me." but the thought of getting a confirming "you have cancer" kept me away for months.

Finally, Mark said we both need to go in so I set the appointment. We both had small biopsies, Me on my hand and Mark on his leg... I also had pre-cancer on my lips... nice!!!

About a week later a Friday afternoon, I am checking my answering machine and it was our dermatologist she said, "Um, I don't mean to alarm you two but I really need to speak with both of you, I am out of the office until Monday so please call back then."

I had the whole weekend to have all the thoughts go through my head like... "Ok it is my turn, I hope Mark is ok without me, I hope the kids are ok... What do I need to accomplish before I go!!!" I know it sounds silly, something so routine but I have every reason to think that I am next!!! It terrifies me!

When I called in Monday... I was devastated!!! It wasn't me... It was Mark, nothing could be worse!!! The thought of Mark gone... can't even go there...

Again, I know this all sounds silly but these were my thoughts... She said Mark had a severely atypical nevus... and they couldn't rule out melanoma!!! He needed to come back in asap to have more removed. I also needed to have more removed but It wasn't urgent or serious just precautionary.

So here we are a few weeks later we both have nice scars... all results came back good... no need to worry! We just need to be checked often.

All that worrying!!! All those crazy thoughts!!! Sure puts things in perspective!

2010-09-08T09:12:00.000-07:00

Introducing a newest member of our family...

Odie

It took me a while to post this because I wanted to make sure he was a good fit for our family... I went into this new adventure a little sceptical... I like dogs but I don't like the poop, smell and messes they make... I wasn't sure I would like him!

I am sold... He is my new little buddy, he is cute, well mannered (except for the nipping at Mason that is totally provoked! We are working on training Mason...) he has been very easy to potty train, he plays fetch,he loves riding on the boat, he is a good swimmer and even does a few tricks now! (sit, stay/come, lay,) best of all, he loves to cuddle... I love it!

We got him from someone who got him as a gift but couldn't keep him because they were in an apartment. They told us he was a Chihuahua Rat Terrier Mix... perfect I thought... little but still athletic! After a visit to the vet he informed me that there is no chihuahua in him but probably a Jack Russell Terrier and would be bigger than I was planning on... oh well, I already am loving him so I guess his size doesn't matter all that much.

The kids love him and so does Mark... He is just what we wanted!

2010-08-17T11:49:00.000-07:00

Time Flies...

It is the name of my blog but also describes the last two months perfectly!

I haven't had much down time... I might have posted once in the last few months... not because we aren't doing anything but because I can't find a second to sit down.

Today on the other hand... I have 2 hours!!! Can you believe it 2 hours!!!

Jacob and Ireland are in school and today was mason's first day of pre-school. Don't know quite what to do with myself.

I could work on crossing items off my list like dishes, laundry, bathrooms, finishing one of the 10 projects I have started in the last little while, church stuff ... endless church stuff, organizing the basement, carpet cleaning my white carpet, replacing the light bulb for the blinker in my van, or a million other things that swarm my head when I lay down at night to go to sleep.

What did I decide to do with my precious 2 hours??... blog of course... and attempt to document our fun filled, crazy summer. It was filled with camping, boating, family reunioning, scouting, swimming, hiking, volleyballing, late night talking, and tons of hanging with the fam.

We had a blast exhausting ourselves... I do have to admit a few weekends I was running on fumes... after 3 nights of little or no sleep I let exhaustion get the best of me and had my first yelling fight with my little sis... I thought it important to document the event because of how stupid it was...we made up quick and i am sure it won't happen again... I just need to remind myself to only run as fast as my legs will carry me.... so I don't trip all over myself!!!

Even though the kids are now in school our adventures are not through... Before it gets cold we will head to Lake Powell one more time, hit Yellowstone (maybe) and try and make it to Denver to visit family and get Jacob to a Bronco's game for his birthday.

my attempt to catch up might take a few days... but I promise lots of pictures and I hope to be able to describe the fun that we have had. Hope you enjoy...

2010-08-17T10:52:00.003-07:00

Kirby Family Reunion 2010

We had a fun, activity filled weekend...and I mean filled!!!! We went non-stop for 3 days and had a blast.

Our first meeting place was the Fiesta Days Rodeo in Spanish Fork...

We took the whole section... man there are a lot of us!!

These three had a great view.

Claire was sitting front row with Todd and had all the Rodeo Princesses waving at her...

Stuart Falls

We didn't make it home until after midnight... and we were supposed to be at the Stuart Falls trail head at 8:00 am... that meant an early grouchy morning for the kids... but, as soon as we met up with the cousins all grouchyness was gone.

Sawyer and Mace

Making a dam.

Grandma made it all the way.... wahoo!!!

Spencer playing in the water.

Iree and Sam have dirty bums....

We all needed to carry our 30 lb weights so we got a worth while workout.

POOL PARTY!!!!

We all met up at the pool house to spend the whole day... endless fun in the pool, some pretty competitive volleyball going on, food, food, food, and a family history slide show to end it for the night.

Anna the hostess!

Mace Man.

The tube of death!

Man made whirlpool...

Todd and Nate

Taylor, Rachel and little Eden.

Scott... King of the tube!

Andy's birthday cake... of course spider man... if is his favorite. :)

The family reps...

Patrick for the Jim Kirby family,

Becky for the John Kirby Family and

Andy for the Joe Kirby family...

Andy made an awesome picture slide show with pictures most of us had never seen.

Pioneer Day...

We started with the Mapleton parade with all the kids on a float in memory of Dave. Then a few of us headed out to the lake for some fun... then we went to dinner with all the adult cousins, then we went to Julie's house for dessert, games, and fireworks... did I mention we had a full schedule!!!

Human Fuse Ball... this was a blast

Only a few people got pegged in the face... but definitely worth it.

We had a great time with all the cousins and look forward to another in years to come.

2010-08-17T10:52:00.001-07:00

Albion Basin Hike

(Alta Ski Resort)

I don't know why I haven't been on this hike before now. It is one of the most beautiful, fun hikes I have been on in years.

Rock Climbers were scaling these cliffs... amazing.

Beautiful Alpine lake at the top.

And of course our favorite... the glacier that we all slid down tons of times... yes we still act like kids and love it!

mace and Joe scaling a cliff

Jacob creating a deadly snowball...

mark speeding down the hill.

"Stop before the lake!!!"

Jacob freezing his butt!

Andy hitting the jumps.

Ahhh.

mace did the whole hike without being carried... mark kept calling him "mountain goat" he loved it and tried hard to stay ahead.

mark and jacob.

The Kirbys ... they have been our partners in adventure!!!

2010-08-17T10:51:00.002-07:00

Hill Family Reunion

We got together at a canyon park, ate good food and had fun games... Heather hit my nice VB in the river never to be found... ugh!

Games for the teenyboppers!

Crafts for the little ones.

The next day we headed to Turf's house for dessert and skits... We had planned on not doing a skit but at the last second Heather, Andy and I said yes... what were we thinking among all these acting people... we are far from theatrical!!! We role played part of "the move" and will leave it at that! We even got some laughs.

2010-08-17T10:51:00.001-07:00

Scout Camp

I went along with these silly boys...

by the end of the day I was sure glad I was only taking one home to live with me.

Opening Ceremonies called for some funny poses from our boys...

These leaders?? makes me chuckle just thinking about how goofy and odd they were... but they could sure get our boys laughing!

Go Carts... pretty cool!

They got to choose a leader to take... they ran into a tree and sent me sailing...
Thanks Boys!

Stamp footprints.

Rockets...

The boys favorite!!! BB GUNS!

maps.

I was holding Kryptonite!!!! They had to save me by completing the obstacle course and taking the kryptonite from me... thanks boys!

Fun Day... Lots of Badges, belt loops and electives passed off.

2010-08-17T09:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Dad!!

2010-08-17T09:46:00.000-07:00

Iree "my girly"

I made a deal... if she was a good helper getting ready for our Powell trip she could come get a pedicure with me...

She helped... I followed through and walla... one happy pampered girl.

2010-08-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

Payson Lakes

I love Payson Lakes for many reasons... beautiful, lake, trees, fishing, trail, swimming, shade, and childhood memories.

We went camping up there two times this year... but forgot my camera both times... i did use my "kind of outdated cell phone" and the pics are a little blurry but still captures the fun.

Walking around the lake... naming all the "turtles" game my friend Linda and I used to do.

Still sunny... but it's coming...

Oh... here's trouble...

Out on the pier...and then we see the hail coming across the water right toward us... sunny and all. We all started sprinting back to camp while getting pelted with hail balls... I love adventures like that.

Todd the "former pyro" helped keep the "current pyro's" in control.

Tepee... or log cabin?

We sang happy birthday to Heidi, Julie and Sammy!

Claire devouring an ice cream cone... yummy!

Warming the bums!

Cousins = Fun

marshmallow mayhem!!

Kaymin getting messy!

Sticky Joe.

Stryde man with the Jumbo Smore!

2010-07-06T14:22:00.000-07:00

Lake Powell June 2010,

2 weeks on a house boat with 2 awesome families and endless fun. We didn't even get sick of anyone... it was that good!

I love Lake Powell!

Trampoline Wars!!

I almost got it... but I think Scott won.

Surfing... still my favorite!

2010-07-06T14:21:00.000-07:00

Mason and Grayson...

can you beleive that Mace is actually the older one.

I think Mace only got into the water 3 times in the whole 2 weeks... he was content squirting people with the squirt gun and riding on the boat.

Wake Kite!!!

The new toy was a blast... I will add some better pictures of Mark sailing through the air... I need to get them from Heather.

Just hanging...

The Group getting ready to head home...

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

Cousins!!!

We had Heidi's 5 staying for a few days. We always load our days with parks and fun when they are here...

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

I love these kids... I love having them around... I love how much fun they are.

2010-07-06T14:05:00.000-07:00

Park Hopping

I think we hit 6 different parks... everyone had their favorite and we hit them all.

Pib!!! Sweet, Cute... and helped me solidify my decision to not have a dog... Thanks Pib.

2010-06-08T08:19:00.000-07:00

Family Bike Rides!!!

This has new meaning for us...

No training wheels, no trailer, and no little whiny kids.

Mark is always hoping up onto rocks, benches, and railings...the kids are always in awe of what dad can do.

I couldn't get enough of this sight... I love my family.

Temple trails are like a little roller-coaster. The kids loved the hills.

Iree had to get a picture up on the same bench dad was jumping off.

Almost There!... We went on a 3 miler with this little guy peddling his legs at hyper speed. He slept good that night.

Mark entertaining... again, the kids are in awe... I have to admit so am I. He can do everything!

Wheelie!

I think this will be a very common sight... what a blast.

2010-06-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

"The move"

my grandparent's move was very eventful... lots of laughs, sighs, frustrations all around, and a lot of "go,go,go" you know our generation!!!

When we pulled up to start loading... There was only a little itty bitty uhaul truck... we all new right away that we were going to need a lot more room!!! Grandpa was pretty insistent that it would fit...we ended up scrambling to get the largest Penske truck available that day and filled it to the door... we also filled all of our cars and a whole 4-wheeler trailer.

Half of the garage goods...

I am sure the move was hard for Grandpa... he was overwhelmed and then just sat down and started playing his harmonica.

part of the crew...

There are many tidbits to this story that make me smile... i will just list a few to jog my memory later... the gnome, the worms, the wine cellar, the original boxes, the oil can, the black widows, the storage unit, the miscommunication, the drives... each one a worthwhile memory.

2010-05-28T15:02:00.000-07:00

Mason's Preschool Field Trip

Wheeler Farm

At first Mace said he would do it and Iree said no way!!! Then Iree got on a pony and Mace wouldn't... In the end they both went for a ride... sometimes things are so complicated!!!

2010-05-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

Oh Mister Sun,Sun, Mister Golden Sun...
Please shine down on me....
Please!!!

We have been waiting for a good day to go to the lake... By this date last year we had been on the lake 12 times and to Lake Powell once.

We are going Crazy with this weather.

We gave it a shot and froze... but at least we worked out some of the beginning of the season kinks...
(tie downs) Ha Ha... just a little inside joke for some of us to remember.

Mace has been begging and begging to go on the boat... he loves it... and especially loves taking the wheel.

Jacob is very into figuring out how it all works... Mark gave him the rundown and let him take the wheel... Pure heaven for this growing boy!
And yes... he is wearing a life vest... just under his sweat shirt.

Heather was the only one crazy enough to get in the 54 degree water. She does have on 3 wet suits including a 7 mm one that doesn't let you move or even breath.
She would kill me if she saw this picture but she wont because she never looks at my blog so hah!!
Nice look little sis!

Surfing with no fat sacks... at least she can still get up... It's been a long winter.

2010-05-14T21:38:00.000-07:00

Our Weekend Away...

The weekend before our 10 year anniversary we planned a little get-away. We didn't have much time so we wanted to stay close. I did a little research and found a nice packaged deal. We went to The Homestead in Midway, Ut.

On Friday night we had massages... seriously funny. Mark was all freaked out... he hadn't had one before and didn't know what to expect. The lady walks us back to the separate dressing rooms gives us robes and says "dress to what's comfortable" I see Mark's eyes go wide and we go our separate ways. I hear my phone get a text and I think to myself. "this is my weekend I am not answering that" then the phone rang... ok, what if Mason is in the ER... I better answer. It was Mark saying... "dress to what's comfortable... what's that all about... to me that means I should put the robe on over my clothes." I was laughing hard and I am sure the ladies thought we were crazies!

The massage was great... a nice relaxing evening!

On Saturday we had breakfast at the little diner and then headed out to play some golf. I haven't played in 8 years... we used to go all the time in Cali. until they wouldn't let us take Jacob anymore... needless to say I was a little rusty! We had planned on doing the driving range so I could get my swing back but... it was such a nice day we wanted to hurry so we could get home and take a spin on the boat. So...We just jumped right in.

All in all I do really like golfing... I need some practice but it could easily become another hobbie...

Mark did great as always!

We always have a great time together... who knew life could be this good???

2010-05-04T13:02:00.001-07:00

My "Big Boy!"

Yesterday, Mason asked Jacob to get "dad's tools" and take his training wheels off. He was determined to ride his bike like a "big boy." Jacob was so great helping him... they practiced for over an hour.

They decided that for our FHE activity should be a bike ride with dad... Mace and Jacob kept working.

When Mark got home Mace was so excited to show dad what he had learned. Mark still had to guide him a little until Mason yelled out, "I finally figured it out!!!!" For the next hour he rode up and down our sidewalk getting better each time.

(Sorry the video is so grainy... it is my phone... I need to pull out the camcorder instead)

My 3 yr old with no training wheels scares me a lot... this is what he can do now...

Occasionally he focuses on an object to the side and I am sure he is going to run into a tree. When he stops he insists on making a skid mark because it is "cool" and it almost sends him over the handle bars and last of all... he is my baby... I know he is 3 1/2 but he is such a little guy I find myself still carrying him around and treating him more like he is 18mos. or 2. even though he is totally capable of doing all things 4 yr olds do... even this...I have a little dare devil on my hands.

.

This morning he came into my room at 6:45 and said "Mom, the sun is up... Let's go ride my bike." I think he just found a new favorite.

2010-05-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

California Weekend!!!!

I headed to Cali for the weekend to play some volleyball in an alumni tournament. It was so fun to see everyone, to stay with Laura, stomp in my old stomping grounds and of course see the ocean! I left Mark and the kids home so I could have a weekend with the girls.

Laura, Jen, Annie, Lex, Lisa and Heather.

This group proves that 10 years doesn't make anyone grow up... we were all as goofy and silly as ever.

The whole alumni group...

After the games all sweaty...I miss you girls already.

2010-05-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

My Coach

Jeff Stork

I do believe I got this one. :)

Nice concentration face...

"Ridge!"

2010-04-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

"Ready or not, here I come!!"
You Stinky Fridge!

Over the last 3 days there has been an awful, horrible, rotten, stale smell coming from my fridge. Each day I have taken steps to find out what the smell is... I thought it was leftovers... nope... I thought it was cheese...nope... I thought it was milk, sour cream, garlic, as I removed each item the smell stayed... I did a through clean... still stinky!!!!

So I went to desperate measures... I took my whole fridge apart... cleaned/sanitized every piece! I even wiped down and sniffed every bottle as I put it back in.

Everything fit in nice and neat... after a 2 1/2 hour scrub it should look nice.
It even smelled good.

A few hours later... the smell faintly returned!!!! It isn't horrible, it is just there...
I am hoping it is just in my head... please just be in my head!

If not...

Mark will have a fun weekend project... I'm done.

I surrender... the fridge won!

*Update*

Mark got home and said it doesn't smell... I guess it was just in my head.

Cleaning, and new baking soda... success!

2010-04-27T10:39:00.000-07:00

Updated Family Photos...

I love pictures...taking pictures that is...but...I hate being in them. Here are a few of the hundreds where my eyes aren't closed.

This is my favorite.

2010-04-16T16:48:00.000-07:00

Veggies beware!!!

Mace can down an enormous amount of veggies! He loves practically every veggie and fruit out there.

Last Costco trip I bought the 6 pack of peppers... When I finally got around to making dinner the pepper bag was missing 4!

Mace ate them all just like apples.

Yes... "the runs" the whole next day.

On one of our Lake Powell trips we stopped in at a marina to get some more fuel... in the store I told the kids they could all choose a snack... Mason's snack... of course, a red pepper!

2010-04-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

"We just wanted to play "hair cut"."

I went to get my hair cut and highlighted and Ireland went to a friend's house.
When she got home she was missing a huge chunk of hair!!!

Not in the back, not at the ends, no, right at the scalp in the front... ahhh!

I think she understands now that "Hair Cut" isn't a game you play with your friends!

2010-04-12T21:03:00.001-07:00

Sun, Pool, Sand and Volleyball...

...really does it get better than this?

ok, throw in a lake and a boat and that is perfection!

Mark had a VB tournament in St. George.

Super Fun... I love watching my man play... he did awesome!!

I know he was disappointed but I thought he did great for his first tournament in the sand. Sand is a completely different game!!!

Both Mark and I are "indoor players" trying to make the transition to the sand... I hear it is a lot more forgiving on the body. It is going to take a lot of hard work this summer for both of us. We are going to be an old wrinkly couple that never gives up the game, just you wait and see... I love it!

2010-04-12T21:03:00.000-07:00

Pool Time!!

We really wanted to swim after the tournament so Heather and I came up with a plan... I figure it wasn't too bad... I still do feel a little guilty... so I guess it was bad... ugh!

We had already checked out of our hotel because we were driving home after the tournament. We were hot, sweaty, sticky, sandy and stinky... so... we went back to the hotel and Heather slyly convinced a lady to open the pool door for her... then she let us all in one by one.

I know this is stupid but... I was so worried we were going to get caught I couldn't even enjoy the swim... I am not very good at NOT following the rules!!! I swear the lady that let Heather in kept giving us the "evil eye" and at one point she left and went in the front doors by the front desk... I thought for sure we were caught! She came back with a coke and started reading her book again. I am sure she didn't even notice us!!! but my conscience kept me on my toes!!!

I think I am too old for that kind of thrill... I will leave it to someone else.

At least we all got cooled off, clean and kids in thier jammies before the drive home.

After getting a quick meal at Panda we picked up 2 boxes (12 ) dilly bars from Dairy Queen...I thought for sure they would go to waist... nope... gone!!! Yes we are piggies!

Road trips are getting better... no pee break at all both ways... amazing!

2010-04-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

An additional 5!

We had the Kirby kids for the night. I love being able to spend time with all my nieces and nephews... We always have a good time. Mace was especially excited to have Lasca around. She goes out of her way to play with him and he loves it!!

Horse back rides... all smiles.

Coloring easter eggs...

Jacob and Joecee's stache.

They wanted to hide them in the house for a hunt... That's all i need rotten eggs hiding under the couches or closets.

Lasca of course helped Mace decorate his eggs... his were all green.

Brogan dunking her masterpiece.

After we got the younger kids set up watching a movie in their pj's, Heather and I took the older girls to a movie. "The Last Song" just came out, I had read the book a little while ago and really liked the book. About 5 minutes into the movie I remembered how the book ended and I panicked. Nothing more uplifting then taking these two girls to a movie where the girl's dad dies !!!! I bawled through the last 20 minutes of the movie. So Sad!!! After the show I told them I was sorry, I really didn't think about the details, I just liked the book. They both liked the movie. They both amaze me!!! I need to realize I don't have to tip-toe around their situation... they are tough and handle life without their dad better than I ever would have.

The next morning we headed to the City Easter Egg Hunt/Candy Scramble.

Stryder and Iree waiting for the Fire Truck to give the go.

Where's Iree?

The Whole group.

After breakfast we headed to the playground and froze!!!

I loved having 5 extra kids for the night... I'll take you all anytime.

2010-04-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

Making the most of our

"Utah" Spring Break!!

So I woke up this morning a little depressed!!!
After all... just over a week ago we pulled out the shorts and got sunburns playing at the park.

I looked out the window and saw a snow covered world. I wanted to stay in my pj's read a book and keep the blinds closed.

Oh wait, I forgot, my kids are on Spring Break, they are ALL home, inside...

we should be doing something fun!

... lets make it a good day.

I got moving so I could fit in the morning "Power Pump" at Golds.

When we got home Mace wanted to go sledding so we pulled out all the snow stuff and headed out to the hill.

Iree and Mace had a blast making the first path through the snow.

Jacob and Mace started on a fort...

Iree made a few snow angels...

Iree also wanted a fort so I jumped in to help... oh wow... the perfect snow!!!! It isn't often that you get that great packing snow... I rolled and rolled and stacked...Iree, Mace and the little neighbor kids filled in the holes. It got taller and taller...

And taller...

Until it was over their heads.

They were in heaven... they thought it was the coolest thing ever, they started making chairs and talking about sleeping and eating in there new home.

I remember I constantly made huts as a kid I always wanted a little snack to make it feel like home.

I went in to see what I could round up for like 20 neighbor kids.

I ended up dumping 3 different flavors of Hot Cocoa in a cooler and grabbing some graham crackers. Everyone loved it!

Then of course the boys wrecked it... 2 hours up, 2 seconds down!

Could I expect any less?

It really has turned out to be a fun "Spring" day.

I am glad I didn't decide to stay in my pj's and just read a book!

2010-03-30T11:45:00.000-07:00

Awe... so nice!

Those of you who know us "Kirby girls" know that this is truly a luxury!

We had a two hour time slot to fit in dinner and a pedicure...ready, set, go!

We first went to a Gourmet Chinese Restaurant (Panda) and then sat in massage chairs, soaked our callused feet, got a sugar rub, and a nice little paint job.

My sisters are hilarious, we laughed the whole time, I am sure the ladies thought we were crazy... wait a second, we are crazy!

It is sure fun to be crazy once in a while.

2010-03-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

Just A Little Competitive!

I am competitive... I try to hold back at the appropriate times but I can't help smile when my team, my husband, my son, my daughter or I win! I know church and school are all about having no winners, no mvp's, and no special treatment.

I understand the reasons, not wanting kids to feel left out or disappointed or sad.

I do get that.

But...

Without competition it is a little hard to succeed... to pull ahead in life... to reach all my goals or to cheer how I want to for my little boy.

As mark would say... "No competition just breeds mediocrity!"

Last night as Jacob took first place in the Rocket Derby for Cub Scouts I was a little torn... I wanted to start jumping, giving high 5's, and booyahing (if that is even a word) because he crushed the competition!!! But being Primary Pres... I didn't think that was appropriate in the church gym with all my little primary kids around so I held out and simply said, "good job buddy."

I feel like I let him down a little...

I am so proud of everything he does, how hard he works to be # 1 in everything and most of all how competitive he is...

So this is my blog... my family memories.... I guess that gives me the right to brag, and cheer my kids on like I know I should.

Good Job Buddy!!! "BOOYAH" "High 5"

I am your #1 fan always.

2010-03-14T00:06:00.000-08:00

A Little Adventure!!!

Mark had his Championship Hockey game tonight at The Olympic Oval. The kids and I went as usual... we love his games. Heather luckily decided to tag along.

After last game when I missed 2 of Mark's goals I decided to make the kids go to the bathroom before we go up to the bleachers so I wouldn't hear cheering and stick banging while waiting for Iree and Mace to choose a stall.

We got all that business taken care of and made the trek back to the bleachers. Mace's legs were tired and he asked me to hold him as we climbed the last set of stairs. As we got up to the bleacher, Mark's team was still warming up... One of the guys took a slap shot at the wall and lifted the puck a little too much. It hit Mace in the head, through the net, while I was holding him. He started screaming so I sat down with him... then I noticed the blood... tons of blood!

We found the first aid lady... I just wanted to grab some gauze and head to an Instacare but there policy is to call the paramedics...

They ended up having to give Jacob more attention than Mace because the sight of blood made him a little queasy! In his words "I see swirling light and stars" He was so pale...Poor kid! We got him some Gatorade and he started to feel better.

The paramedics rolled in the gurney... I was thinking "Please don't make Mace ride on that... It will scare him to death." They asked me if I would like the Ambulance to take him to the ER or did I feel comfortable taking him myself as long as I had someone to drive... Wahoo, good thing Heather came... Mark was still in the middle of his game. I gladly signed the waver saying I would take him to an Instacare or ER on my own. I am so glad he didn't have to get strapped down.

At the Instacare they put some numbing cream on the cut and had us wait 20 min. He started to feel better. He looked up at me and said, "Mom, my head is all better, we can go now."

When we got called back the doctor took one look and said stitches aren't going to work... we need to do staples!

Mace repeated, "STAPLES!" poor kid, he was listening to every word intently.

Here is the final product!!! 1 week and we go in to have them taken out. I love adventures but not ones that involve cuts and ambulances.

2010-03-09T21:23:00.000-08:00

One of those Tough Days!

So it has been 2 years since my big brother Dave died. This weekend I was hit extra hard with that fact! I think of him often, most days really... but as I attended Joecee's baptism I just missed him a ton. I wanted to see him with his red sunburned nose, goatee, blue shirt, and a outdoorsy vest, baptizing and confirming his daughter.

It doesn't seem very fair! Why? He is missing so much!

I try not to do this often but I am allowed my moment to whine every now and then...

After all, I do know we will all be together again!!!
I do feel extra comfort knowing that his death did save so many others.
He always helped others!

I just miss him today!!

Our only Kirby Family Photo with just us all grown up... I noticed Dave in the background when I was editing. This is at his Celebration of Life. We will treasure this one.

Today I read through some of my old blog posts... I thought this one hit the spot... I wrote this about a month after he died.

My thoughts and memories of my big brother...

At the hospital the Sunday Dave died we met together in a ICU room and had family prayer. Our family is huge, and includes many close friends. We filled the room to capacity and beyond. We smashed into the corners to allow the continuous flow of people to enter. As the 5 kids entered the room I couldn't keep the tears from flowing. As I looked around the room, I could see that most everyone was feeling the same feelings I was at that moment. Heidi was amazingly strong and offered the prayer. It was wonderful, comforting, and perfect. I remember thinking afterward, "We should be comforting Heidi not her comforting us." Afterward, she asked all of us to please write down our memories of Dave so her children would know what kind of person, friend, brother, and son he was.

So... This is for Lasca, Brogan, Joecee, Stryder, and Kaymin. I do admit it is for me also. I need to express my feelings and memories of him... it seems to be my way of healing. I want them to know the kind of big brother he was to me.

Dave was 9 years older than me. To him I am sure I was a little pest. On the other hand I do think that as a 10 year old he liked me a little...I have evidence to prove it. On our family home movies he is the one spotting me as I take my first steps. He helps me up with a big smile and encourages me to keep trying.

My earliest memories of Dave are those of a normal brother sister relationship... he teased me and I tattled on him. He would do various things like spear peanut butter on my nose, wipe mayonnaise on my glasses, and give me buttercups! He was a pro at those! Even though at the time I screamed and tattled I think I was secretly happy he was giving me attention.

Dave and I were always at war. When I was about 13 or 14 I went through a "tree-hugger", "animal-rights-activist" kind of phase. At the time I wanted to be a National Geographic Photographer and help save the planet! To Dave... this put a big red target on my chest that said TEASE ME. I have so many examples of our wars but I will only describe a few.

Each fall Dave would go hunting... I was appalled! I just didn't understand why someone would want to shoot one of God's creations. Dave would go out of his way to remind me that he was going to track and bring home the biggest buck. I would usually respond with some statistic I read from National Geographic on how he was a big reason for all the animals going extinct. (I pretended to know what I was talking about.) I remember one day after the hunt he said, "Jenny I have something to show you... come here. " I followed him, being my gullible self, he led me to the garage. My jaw dropped... there hanging from the rafters in the garage was a dead deer. He thought it was the funniest thing ever... I stormed out determined to never forgive him!

In the spring every year we would prune the trees. We would pile all the branches in the middle of the garden and have a big bonfire. Remember again... my "save the earth" mind frame at this time. I remember Dave putting Harts' cups on the end of a stick and burning them. Again, my jaw dropped. How could he? Look at that black smoke going into the atmosphere! I watched as the cup melted and changed shape until little dripping fireballs of plastic dropped to the ground. I remember arguing over the blazing fire. How could my brother be the one person single handedly destroying the world?!

I think it was about a year later I discovered I could never be a National Geographic Photographer because I would have to sleep alone in a tent in the wilderness for days. The thought of that life was too frightening. So I changed my career choice to teaching. Also, burning cups on the bonfire was just too much fun so my "save the earth" years passed. I still have never gone hunting with Dave but... I was willing to. He invited my husband Mark to go with him and I would have loved to go along.

Dave would often ask me to tag along with his dates (I still can't figure out why) I would always say yes because it meant at least a snickers and a soda from Harts and if I was really lucky maybe even fast food. One time a girl in a bright red sports car pulled up to our house. Dave asked if me and my friend Katie if we would like to come along. Heck yes!! Look at that car. We stopped at Harts and as this girl went in to the store Dave looked back at me and Katie and said, "She's cute huh? Guess what, I 'm going to marry her!" I remember thinking what a crazy lovestruck brother I had. Dave and Heidi were engaged a few days later.

The summer after I graduated from high school I worked construction with Dave. At the time he was running the blade (road grater) . He was so good at it. I don't say that just because I am his sister... everyone in the construction business knew Dave and his skills on any of the equipment, especially the blade. I would walk along side the blade and tell him to lift the blade up one notch or down a few as I followed the marking stakes the surveyors left. We would stay late in the hot summer night until he got it perfect. He always finished. He would never leave anything undone. At this time we were building the taxi way at the Salt Lake City Airport. We had a long commute home and we would eat star burst candy and usually grab a soda for the ride home. He would ask me about volleyball and tell me about the new things Lasca had just learned to do.

Dave guarded me around the rough construction crowd. He was so respectful of me. Sometimes he had to take care of some lazy workers... he would tell me to go work on something and I could hear him cussing them out from a distance. He never used the "construction man language" around me. One day I was helping one of the other workers pick up these metal stakes. We had to use the forklift to gather them all. The kid would drive and I would put the stakes on the forks. I was bending down to pick up a stake and this kid drove over my ankle. The first words out of his mouth was, "Man I'm dead!" Here came Dave... (can you imagine!) he practically fired the kid... he was yelling at him saying, "you idiot you probably ruined her volleyball career." I assured Dave I was fine... he made me go to the doctor even though I didn't think I needed to. It felt nice to have someone stand up for me like Dave did.

Mark and I moved to California to go to school and play volleyball for Cal State Northridge. After being in Northridge for 5 months Mark decided to be baptized. Dave and his family were there for one of the most special days in our lives. After the baptism we had a great time at the beach helping Lasca and Brogan collect shells.

Three years ago Mark and I moved back to Utah. Dave was building his home at the time and Heidi had just had Kaymin the day before. We didn't expect Dave to help us move in but at 7:00 a.m. in the morning he called and said, " I have an hour or two so I am on my way up with the trailer to get you guys moved." I quickly woke Mark up and we went to work. That same day Dave, Mark and my dad poured the basement floor of his house. He always found a way to help us all.

This past Christmas Dave and I both had a different idea about what we should do as a family for a gift exchange. We were both a little stubborn with our opinions. A few weeks before Christmas he called me and we had a heated conversation about the subject. I started to cry and told him I wished I still lived in California so I wouldn't have to worry about these kind of family problems. We ended our conversation and I went about my evening a little disgruntled. About an hour later (10:00 p.m. ) I heard a knock at the door. Dave and Heidi were standing on my porch. I opened the door and let them in. He handed me a treat he had picked up at the gas station and said, " I'm sorry I made you sad. I would never mean to do that." He gave me a big hug (a Kirby No No) and we had a great conversation and came to a resolution. I was so touched how he drove clear up to my house at night just to say sorry. He always had to make things right.

I can't begin to explain my feelings about him while we sat at the hospital those two dreadful days. It was a roller coaster of not knowing what was happening, the realization of his condition, the choice for him to be a donor and then his death. The hardest part was riding with the smiling kids up the elevator on there way to say bye to their daddy. As I left them in the room with Heidi I walked outside into the hall and crumbled.

The week following was exhausting and wonderful. We gathered as family and reflected on our memories of Dave. We laughed, cried and pondered about what his experience might have been like. We spent many late, late, late nights working on the celebration of his life and funeral. I felt closer to my siblings than ever before. We bonded and it was a great feeling.

Lasca, Brogan, Joecee, Styder and Kaymin I want you to know that your dad was a great brother to me. He teased me a lot... he stood up for me when i needed someone to, he apologized to me, he cared about me, and he made me laugh. I will always remember him when I look at any of you. I love you all. Remember his legacy.

2010-03-05T19:33:00.000-08:00

A New Hobby

I took Jacob skiing for the first time. I hadn't been since I was 16.

He had an absolute BLAST! So did I.

I don't know why I haven't taken advantage of these awesome ski resorts in our back yard!

Those days are over!

I think I found a new hobby, oh man, like I really need anything else to like.

Kendra and I smashing Jacob on the lift ride up.

Pure Beauty... I love pine trees covered with snow.

I wanted to let Jacob practice on the bunny hill for a while. I started to explain how to zig-zag and snow plow... He just took off, went straight down and snowplowed to stop... no more bunny hill so we headed up the lift.

Standing in line for the lift (the first run), Jacob started doing the "Pee Dance"...we were almost to the front of the line and I wasn't willing to get out so I told him to hold it... I know, Mean right? Well I forgot and he held it the whole time.

As we were about to leave to go home he told me he still had to go... I felt a little bad... there is nothing worse than having to go pee really bad when you have layers of snow clothes on...

Next time we will make that stop at the beginning.

I was super proud of him today.

He did great for his first time.
*

Here is a little clip of Jacob... I am following him down the mountain.

When we were getting ready to leave he said, "Mom, can we please, please, please, come tomorrow with Dad?" He loved it and we will have to KSL some skis so we can go anytime.

2010-03-01T08:51:00.000-08:00

An attempt to lift the booty!!

Hopefully with my new combo of Gold's Gym, better foods and Insanity workouts I will be able to tone up a little.

We joined the gym a few weeks ago... so far I love it, they have a Cardio Cinema where I can be in a movie theater sweating my guts out and watching "Tommy Boy" at the same time.

Cardio has always been my enemy...

I don't see the point of exercise when there isn't a ball involved.

I guess I can justify it while I am watching a movie.

Mace and Iree have fun in the kids play center while I do my workouts.

The endless weights and machines make it easy for me to leave with a killer full body workout every day...

I have been feeling it, did you notice that waddle the other day? Yep I killed my inner thighs and waddled for a week.

Mark goes with a friend after the kids go to bed and he is getting huge!!!! I love the new look and I can tell he is super proud of the results after all the hard work he has been putting in. He is going to need all new shirts if this goes any further... They have been looking a little tight, and he loves it!

Chicken Breast, Asparagus and Quinoa

(all whole ingredients and tasted awesome)

Food

I love food!

I was raised that really anything goes as long as it tastes good...

I never, never, want to end up with a grandma pooch (sorry but this is one of my biggest fears) so I think I need to be a little more thoughtful in my choices of food.

Our goal is to eat whole foods, no more quick processed meals, fast food, and cutting back on the desserts. This is hard for my sweet tooth but best for my body and my kids.

Both my of my older sisters do this well so I guess I just need to be a little more like them.

Heather and Chuck got "Insanity" an insane workout program. The kids loved doing "Insane Abs" with Heather and I.

I hope I can report that all of this combined with 1 night of high level volleyball with keep my body happy... stay tuned.

2010-03-01T08:50:00.000-08:00

Blue and Gold

We had a fun dinner with the scouts. A few funny skits, jokes, awards and food. I like that these boys have a fun, educational program to direct all of that energy. We all know how much they need that. :)

2010-02-22T14:24:00.000-08:00

Who Needs Sleep?

Most mornings I wake up with bags under my eyes, shake Mark 5 times before he finally makes his way to the shower, pull on some baggy sweat pants and a t-shirt, oh and those pink glasses that no one is supposed to see and head down stairs to start my day.

Why do I do this to myself...
It would seem so much better to wake up early, be showered and dressed by the time the kids get up and have breakfast waiting as they came down the stairs. Ideal Right? But, not a reality in our house.

Mark and I have some habits... I am not going to say "bad habits" because I actually love these habits!
We never and I mean never go to bed before midnight...

I love spending time with my hubby and best friend... It could be 11:30 on a Tuesday night... One of us would say "We should probably go to bed." Then we snuggle up and start another episode of Lost or talk until we realize it is 2:00 am.

I wouldn't trade our time hanging-out for anything. We are two busy people but we always make a few hours to just chill.

So to answer the question "Who Needs Sleep?"

Not Me!
Not Mark!

Right now sleep seems to be a waist of time...
Others think we're crazy but we like it this way!

2010-02-10T11:03:00.000-08:00

Reflecting...

I am so blessed!
We are all so blessed!

This past week, I have been following a story.
Little Bronson.
I don't know them personally, but my friend is her friend... close enough right.

I have been so touched by the story...
It hits a little too close to home.
I can see myself in her shoes and am truly blessed to get the wake up call that we all need.

Her baby boy drowned...
He was DOA (dead on arrival) at the hospital.
Then his heart started again...
A second Chance.

We all have our personal tragedies, trials, or bad days. Bronson's mom has been an inspiring example...her amazing faith, honesty and attitude have strengthened me.

My Faith has grown...
I love that feeling!

Read Bronson's Story Here

Look what I have...
How could I ever complain or ask for anything more.
I am truly BLESSED!

2010-02-05T11:57:00.000-08:00

Badges, Belt loops, and more Badges!!!

I have a true blue boy scout on my hands.

Everything we do... he says, "Can I earn a badge for that?"

We are off track for 3 weeks so I promised the kids we would have so much fun this time... I told them we would go and do a ton of fun things. So the first week... we sat around in our jammies and watched cartoons and movies. Not anyone's Idea of "we will have so much fun!" So I was determined to get them out of the house at least one day on week 2.

Might as well kill 2 birds with one stone.

Get the kids out to the Natural History Museum and Jacob can earn a badge!!!
Everyone's happy!

Hopefully week 3 will be a little more exciting.

Jacob brought his friend along to earn a badge also.

Ouch!!!

Iree, her friend Mary and Mace loved digging for fossils.

Wow... he thought this was so cool.

Sand and water always make kids happy.

2010-01-28T09:05:00.000-08:00

Embarrassing!!!

Not for them... Only for me!

Mark and his old team had the annual "Stache Tournament" they grow mustaches and wear clothes from the 70's... horrible!!!

At every time out they would do a stretching routine... it was hilarious sitting in the crowd and hearing the comments... like, "ew", "how old are these guys?" and "that is hilarious." It is crazy to think some of these guys are getting close to 40!!!

It took a lot for me to post this one... I think it is disgusting... but oh well, I am glad Mark still likes to have fun and make people laugh. I missed it... but I guess Mark and Brad did the pregame warm up in their speedos... From what I hear the crowd was dying laughing...

2010-01-22T11:03:00.000-08:00

Our Brother's and Sister's in Haiti need our Help.

I Have been so emotional the last little while over the Earthquake in Haiti... I feel helpless! I want to help, I want to be there to help these little children! When I saw this little boy this morning on the news... I lost it again!
I don't think we can comprehend how horrible things are right now... I know most of us have never gone more than a day without food or water... The Haitian people are hurt, and hungry...

They need our help...

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints has a Humanitarian Aid Fund. The Church is always involved in Humanitarian efforts and uses the funds wisely.

Read Here to see how your funds would be used.

2010-01-21T20:45:00.000-08:00

Snowball the Snowman!

I have been promising Mace we would build a snowman... but it has been so cold the snow/ice just wouldn't work. We have started about 5 in the last few weeks but never been able to finish. Today we got some good-ole snowman making snow... Mace came into my room this morning and said, "Mom, It snowed so much(his little arms spread)" As soon as we got the older kids off to school we bundled up and made a snowman.

I love my little man!!! He is so cute!!! Don't you Agree?

2010-01-19T14:27:00.000-08:00

8 Years ago today...

Our little family was sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple. Mark and I had been married for 1 1/2 years and Jacob was 3 1/2 months old. When his hand was placed on ours, he looked up and smiled... :) Such a precious moment!

Our Date tonight... temple, dinner, and a movie.

2010-01-19T14:20:00.001-08:00

Slumber Party in a box!!!

I remember how fun huts were to me when I was young. Heather and Chuck bought some new furniture and promised Mason the boxes... he loves boxes!!! They set up their beds and slept the whole night in their little hut. Super Fun!!

2010-01-19T14:20:00.000-08:00

Jr. Jazz Basketball

Jacob is loving basketball. And as always I am his number 1 fan (ok, maybe Mark and I have to share that position) I love everything about our little athlete blossoming.

2010-01-19T14:19:00.001-08:00

Ice Skating with the Cousins

Julie and the boys came up for the day and Andy and his kids joined as well. Always fun to get together.

Parker had to have a shot of him sprawled on the ice. (here you go Parker)

My sister Julie and Bridger.

Kathryn and Karolyn.

My brother Andy, Joseph and Karolyn.

Andy and Karolyn.

Mason and his favorite buddy, Kirby.

Parker and Jacob making the laps.

2010-01-14T12:17:00.000-08:00

Our new family members!!!

I know... I said I wouldn't get a pet but Jacob is so excited about scouts and there is a badge on caring for a pet... I gave in pretty easy. :)

I planned on going to the pet store and getting 3 gold fish and one bowl... nope... I guess you have to have some sophisticated tank to have gold fish in Utah. (really goldfish?) So I left the pet store with 3 Beta fish and 3 separate fish bowls... apparently Beta will kill each other so they have to be separated and I already promised each kid a fish...

They each named there own...

Flame
(Jacob's)
I think it fits great.

Charger
(Ireland's)
She likes to jab at her dad... lately she likes the San Diego Chargers :)

Jacob
(Mason's)
We said, "hey Mace what is your fish's name?" He replied... "Jacob" and has been calling him that for the last 2 days.

2010-01-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

The new do!!!

Mark shaved his hair off this morning to support his volleyball friend/teammate who is going through chemo right now. Dominate Mike!

Reminds me of when we were dating... minus the earrings thankfully!!!

He has the volleyball "Stache" tournament coming up in 2 weeks so he is going to grow a mustache also... Eww!!

2010-01-05T10:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning

For those of you who know Mark you know he is not a morning guy...(not even a little bit) Me on the other hand... I can't sleep past 8:00 am no matter what time I go to bed.

Mark told the kids they couldn't go down to see what Santa left until 7:00 am (he was being very generous)

So at 4:00am Jacob comes into my room and says, "Mom, I can't sleep anymore..." Normally I would have just told him to get a drink and go back to bed, but I felt bad for the kid... I remember those nights of anticipation... wondering what Santa left. So I went with him to his room and lay down in his bed. I was trying to keep him company and get a little more sleep at the same time. Every once in a while he would start talking about what he thought Santa left, or "Mom, are you sure he already came... I think I hear something.", and this was the best... "Mom, our neighbors are down opening their gifts and it is only 5:00... That's not fair." He was looking out his window at the neighbors across the street. Finally, slowly, the clock said 7:00 so I let them go wake up Dad.

Santa (upon suggestion from dad and a letter to Santa from the kids) wrapped his gifts this year. The kids loved that they had little presents to open in their stockings, and one from Santa under the tree.

We were waiting for Grandma and Grandpa to show up before we started opening.

Ireland with her stocking...

Jacob... about to pee his pants he is so excited.

And Mason, just couldn't wait... he started ripping open right away.

We had a great morning... I think the kids were all so happy with what Santa left. I was just enjoying the morning and didn't lift the camera again... so this is it.

Go Broncos!!

Randy and Alex (Mark's bro and sis) Sent this picture to Mark on Christmas in there Jerseys... Mark, Jacob, and Mark's dad all got matching ones...

Too bad they just lost their last game... 8 more months until it starts again!