FAMILY, a journey to forever

Surgery and Sweets

2012-01-15T17:52:00.000-08:00

Jaron recently had knee surgery to replace his ACL. Here he is before hand all smiles. It's been over a week and he is healing very nicely. I have enjoyed being 'needed' by him again. They are so independent at his age (which is a good thing) so it is nice to feel needed. I must admit though that the first 48 hours after surgery I seriously felt like I had a newborn again. Newborns just require so much attention and need you to do every little thing for them. At the end of the day you felt like you hadn't gotten a thing done. I even found myself trying to find 15 minutes just to jump in the shower and get ready for the day. Lucky for me that didn't last too long.

His friends and family have been so good to him. They all must know how much he likes to eat. He has received 3 bags of beef jerky, gummy bears, brownies, 2 plates of cookies, jamba juice and even his very own pan of cinnamon rolls from my mom. Jaron LOVES cinnamon rolls, always has. Especially my moms, which leads me into the next part of this post.

I enjoy cooking. Love to bake as well. However, for some reason anything that involves yeast usually ends disastrous for me. I have attempted bread making maybe 3 times in my life and cinnamon rolls only once before. I don't know what I do wrong but it never turns out. So earlier today I was browsing through my 'yummy stuff'" file on Pinterest and I came across this cinnamon roll recipe that I had saved to try out. Printed it out and headed into the kitchen. Two and a half hours later I had a finished product. They were ok, not great like my Mom's but at least they weren't disastrous. Jaron ate 3 so that was a good sign.

I should probably mention that my yeast had expired in 2005. I even noticed this at the start of this 2 1/2 hr project which should have been my first clue to stop but I was determined. I'm just happy they were edible this time. I'd call that progress.

Love this boy!

2011-12-27T19:53:00.000-08:00

I love this boy! He makes me laugh and he is kind. He loves his momma and he is helpful and just plain fun!!! He was Napolean Dynomite for Halloween and he really got into his character. Cracked me up. He went trick or treating with his friend Ammon and they had a blast!

and here he is at his very first dance. A friend of mine who was there snapped this picture for me and sent it to me. This dance was for Beehives and Deacons who are either 12 or 13 years old. She is a cutie but.... does she look like a Beehive to you? Oh poor Camdon. He called me after a few dances and begged me to come and save him or he would surely die an early death. No joke, those were his words. We made him stick it out and I am happy to report that he did survive it.

I love that boy!!!

Arizona sunrise

2011-12-27T19:41:00.000-08:00

Not much compares to a beautiful Arizona sunrise except maybe an Arizona sunset.

BirThdAy PaRtY

2011-12-08T17:51:00.000-08:00

Camdon turned 12 and had 10 friends over for a mystery dinner. It was so much fun coming up with the menu. It was even a surprise for Camdon. Every single item on the menu started with the letter C becuase.... C is for Camdon.

After dinner they all wanted to play video games. Imagine that. I insisted that they play Just Dance so they would atleast be moving around and interacting. They LOVED it! They rotated in and out and really had fun. We extended the party time by 30 minutes because they didn't want to stop playing.

It was a special birthday for Cam as he turned 12 and was able to receive the Priesthood. Here is the group that was able to make it that day.

Double Date

2011-12-08T08:16:00.000-08:00

Jaron & his best friend Ryan recently went on a double date. They asked out 2 cute girls Sydney and Olivia. They went to Goodwill to do some shopping for the 'Perfect' outfit to wear out to dinner. Each couple got to pick out the other couples outfits and they had to wear them for the remainder of the evening. Let me tell you, they really went all out.

Olivia and Jaron sporting their fine ensembles. Jaron, I had no idea that roses were such a good look for you. (wink-wink)

Ryan & Sydney with their smashing attire. Wow Ryan, gold is a great color for you. You really should wear it more often.

This picture is the funniest one to me. This was hours later after wearing this good looking outfit all evening and Jaron had even been home for a bit. He came in to lay on my bed and tell me all about the evening and he was STILL wearing this outfit. He said it was actually quite comfy. Afterall, what's not to love about purple pajama pants covered in adorable penguins. Hah, love that boy!

Out and about

2011-12-08T07:46:00.000-08:00

Went to breakfast recently at Joe's Farm Grill. Had to get my picture taken with this Awesome jeep. It's not every day that you come across something like this. Happy Day to YOU!!!

Donny Osmond

2011-12-08T06:27:00.000-08:00

I recently attended the Donny Osmond concert with my Mom. I'm not a huge Donny fan but my Mom sure is. She was given tickets by my Aunt Alice and they were to attend together but at the last minute when Aunt Alice could not attend I was given the opportunity. It was a GREAT concert! He is certainly entertained and I enjoyed his performance so much.

Here we are about to go in.

Cindy Standage, a local performer who I happen to know and is in my Stake was one of the opening acts as well as Firefly.

and here he is, Mr. Donny Osmond himself.

He was very personable and included the audience in his show. Lots of great music.

This was a little girl who was a big fan. He brought her down on stage and sang her favorite song to her. Soooo cute.

Thanks Mom for taking me and thank you to Aunt Alice for getting us the tickets.

Round Up

2011-12-08T06:13:00.000-08:00

We recently had our Mother & Son Round Up at a Relief Society activity. We had so much FuN!!! We had a BBQ dinner, cowboy themed games, guessing jars and we took pics of all the moms and their sons or grandsons. Some dressed up in their cowboy attire and it was a great evening.

Using a few of the props and being a little silly.

Richard and his mother.

I thought this was the best pic of the whole night. It made me chuckle. This mom brought her grandson and they had a delightful time together as did all who attended.

Homecoming for Jaron

2011-10-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

Jaron went to Homecoming this last weekend. There were 11 couples in his group. (1 couple missing who couldn't make it for pics). I am so glad that he has such a great group of friends.

One of their 'strike a pose' pics

His date was Ashley and she looked so beautiful. Loved the colors they chose. So bright and fun.

Pinterest Projects

2011-09-12T20:33:00.000-07:00

Ok so I don't know if you have discovered Pinterest or not but beware it is a time killer. However, it depends on what you do with it. I like to think that it has inspired me. Pinterest is an app that you can download to your phone or you can view it through your computer online. You do have to sign up but it is a place where ideas, recipes & much more is shared. I love it and am filled with inspiration to get going when I visit it. So, here are a few of my pinterest projects that I've been working on.

First, I found this picture in decorating ideas and I just fell in love with the colors. I had desperately been needing to clean out my pantry. It is my catch all room (I hope I'm not the only one with one of those rooms) and it had caught more than it could hold. So with a little extra time on my hands I decided the time had come to tackle it, clean it, and give it a fresh new look.

First, I had to empty it. Everything came out, even this old white tile. Richard thought this would also be a great time to do the tile, re-texture and paint the room. We even pulled out the cupboards that were in there and relocated them to a new wall. It was quite the undertaking. Where did I put it all in the mean time you ask?

Yes, I am really airing it all here. I set up 3 table in my kitchen/dining area thinking that would be enough space to allow me to sift through and decide what I would keep and get rid of. Apparently that little pantry held much more than I had originally thought.

It was everywhere. Richard, came home from work after I had pulled it all out and made the comment that he felt like he had walked into an edition of the tv show "Hoarders". Yes, I laughed. It took me about a week to go through it all and I have to say it was making me CraZy. I don't know how people live like that with 'stuff' all over the place.

I even had to take down my seasonal decoration area to make room for more pantry stuff.

and it spilled over into my family room. Yikes! I have too much stuff!

So the pantry got a fresh coat of sunny yellow paint and new tile to match the rest of the house. Here are the shelves beginning to go back in so I could organize this mess. I love the yellow! It is bright, cheery and happy. Richard was worried it would be too much but I assured him once everything was back in and mixed with the other colors I was planning that it would be lovely.

So here are the cupboards with the lovely aqua blue colors and I used baskets and buckets that I already had and spray painted them in colors that I wanted and used them to organize some of this stuff.

Some of the shelves painted to match the cabinets and again with the baskets to match the color scheme I had chosen.

I don't know how old this picture is but it hung in my grandma Ries' house many years ago and she passed it on to me. I changed the color of the matte as well as added a little red to the flowers and I think it is just perfect for the room. It is hard to see but there are even some light blue flowers scattered in there. So that's pretty much it. Everything is cleaned up and my house no longer resembles an edition of "Hoarders". Whew. I have a few decorative touches to add to the room still but you get the idea. It looks much better in person of course, hard to capture in pictures.

We had some beautiful fall weather over the weekend and even some rain and it put me in the mood to try out 2 new recipes from Pinterest. The first are pumpkin cheescake muffins. They are a low cal muffin and don't have much sugar in them and I kind of have a sweet tooth so I wasn't sure if I really liked them but.... my kids ate them up as well as the committee members I serve with in my church calling. I guess I will make them again. Speaking of my calling, I am the RS Meeting leader (Homemaking or Enrichment leader is how most people know it) and we have a craft night coming up in October and most of the projects we are doing came from Pinterest. I told you it was a cool site. You should check it out.

and for dinner tonight I made this soup called Skinny Potato Soup (in hopes that it would make me skinny) haha. It was a Weight Watcher recipe and I did find it on Pinterest. It has only 2 actual potatoes in it and then an entire head of cauliflower that I pureed and you can't even tell in my opinion. My kids ate it up like crazy and wanted to know what that delicious smell was when they came in from school. As a matter of fact Trevon just got home from club volleyball and he is sitting here next to me at the table and is eating his 3rd bowl. If only they knew how healthy it was. Haha, I love it.

So, have you discovered Pinterest yet? Has it inspired you to do or make any fun projects?

Despite the heat

2011-08-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

I love that my garden is still flourishing and despite the heat it continues to produce. We have been gone so much this summer and it has been sorely neglected. Each time I leave I tell myself that I will most likely come home to a dead garden. Each time I return I am pleasantly surprised. It must be that we are being blessed for listening to the counsel of our church leaders to plant a garden.
Above is one of the okra plants that have such beautiful blossoms. Thank goodness for heat tolerant plants. Below is one of the many tomato plants. They are beginning to show signs of the heat getting to them, however they are still producing like crazy. Love those home-grown tomatoes. Noting quite like them.

Above my chili pepper plants. We have been roasting & freezing them. YUM! and below are my bell peppers. They are small but plentiful. Delicous in a salad or grilled with other veggies.

and for lunch today my grandmothers Southern roots are coming out in me. Fried okra is on the menu today. I'm the only one who likes it and since the boys are gone camping with their grandparents for the week and Richard is working.... I am in okra heaven.

Show Low & the 4th of July

2011-07-08T11:54:00.000-07:00

I hurried home from Vegas a little early so that I could see my sister before she headed back home to Texas. Plus that meant I got to spend the 4th in my hometown where I have so many great memories. Camdon & I headed up Sunday morning and got there just in the nick of time to attend 2nd ward (my home ward) and see lots of great people who still live there. Below is my mom & LoraLeigh looking lovely.
Kamrielle & I had to get a picture because we were twins and didn't even plan it. We had the same color of top, both in white skirts and white shoes. So fun! Love that girl!

My Mom & I at the parade.

LoraLeigh, Carder & I

our parade group (most of us anyway)

Willie (Vinnies brother) and C.R.

My Dad and C.R. with those beautiful white mtn clouds I love.

LoraLeigh & Carder Pete

My favorite float. So cute with a little girl swinging from a tree on the float.

Aren't those clouds seriously just beautiful? Love them! and the cute little boy eating his treat.

My dad's little garden that he put in. They just bought a little summer place up in ShowLow. We stayed with them. It was cozy but comfy.

A trip to Wal-Mart. Can't go to ShowLow without a trip to Wal-Mart. C.R. riding his horse.

Carder was bull-dozing his way through the store.

Kamrielle & C.R. riding Dumbo.

Sure do love my family! Glad I got to spend some time with them.

Vegas Baby

2011-07-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

So we recently spent a week in Vegas selling fireworks. They were hot, long days but we made the best of it. Shawn, Jaron & Zale.
Trevon & Kevin.

Bobby & Jaron

Richard & Bob

A Morse kid & Jaron

Trev

There were some slow days at the beginning of the week. Playing their games to pass the time.

Our first night there we got to go bowling. Had a blast!

Jaron & Zale

Trevon & I in action.

Here goes Zale!

and Jonah.

Trevon, Jonah & Kevin.

We got in an unlimited bowling deal. Not sure how many games we played but it was til about 2 in the morning.

Jonah

Trevon after a strike! He got many!

Zale with her concentration stance.

they all did great but..... not quite great enough. That's right, the Mom beat them all!

California, part 3

2011-07-07T21:49:00.000-07:00

We all went to Disneyland one of the days we were there. Well except Tim & Kiff who stayed behind to surf. Here we are at the entrance with that grouchy ol' queen from Alice in Wonderland. She was telling Camdon exactly where to stand.

Our very first ride, Thunder Mtn, walked right on.

All smiles!

Sunsplash, 2nd ride, walked right on. When we finished the ride there was still no waiting so they let us go again. Awesome!

Caden, Jaron & Trevon

Caden isn't very cooperative in letting me take pics of him so the fact that I actually got him smiling, very rare. Had to post it.

The Jungle Cruise.

I think we rode it 3 or 4 times total. 3rd time on Sun Splash! No waiting.

with Buzz Lightyear

My Halloween costume this year. lol

Love the parade, it is always so magical.

Mary Poppins, one of my favs.

My parents, great pic of them.We really wanted a pic with Micky Mouse. Who are these kids you say? Check out the creepers in the background.

With the castle. The boys and I.

Loved these colorful lights on Alice in Wonderland teacups which we rode just before midnight. I would love lights like this in my back yard.

The boys told me before we even got to Disneyland that they would absolutely not ride with "It's a small world" with me. One of the classic rides, a must in my opinion. Well by nightfall after we had done all the fast rides they finally agreed to go ride it with me. Ahhhh, such good sons they are. Thank you boys!

All of us on "It's a Small World" LoraLeigh & I about midnight looking a little worn out but it is the only pic I got of the two of us.

with Carder Pete Kamrielle wanted to make CraZy faces.

Trevon & Carder

LoraLeigh, Vinnie & C.R.Last ride of the night, teacups.

We had such a fun time, can't wait to go back.

California, part 2

2011-07-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

We attempted to go to church on Sunday. Got ready, headed down to the church house and there was a note saying that it was Stake Conference. So... we all headed down to the San Diego temple which is so beautiful. I think it worked out for the best anyway. I'm not sure we would have gotten there that week if it hadn't of happened the way it did.
My mom & dad in front of the temple. Such a beautiful shot. The temple almost looks like it was photo shopped in but I assure you it is not.

My Dad and Jaron

The boys with Kamrielle.

All of us were there minus Tim & Kiff

They were checking out the glass at the entrance to the lobby.

The girls

LoraLeigh and I with our Dad on Fathers Day.

Giving Caden a bad time which he always deserves. =-)

Our family.

The guys.

Oceanside Part 1

2011-06-25T21:10:00.001-07:00

Just got back from our family reunion in Oceanside with the Whipple fam. We had the best time. Seriously fun! Lots of great memories. Here are a few we'd like to share with you. Cam had never tried crab legs before. He loved them! Here he is below getting ready to dig in.
and here he is at the pier with the surfers in the background. It was cloudy this day but I loved that we actually need a jacket and it's June. I could get used to that weather.

The highs were in the 70's and the lows were in the 60's. Perfect weather! Loved it!

My sister LoraLeigh, brother Kiff and niece Kamrielle.

Sweet little boy, Carder. He belong to LoraLeigh.

My Dad and C.R., one of my favorite pics.

Uncle Richard helping Kamrielle with this sand castle. It was pretty cool with it's own lake.

Cool view of the pier.

and the parents of this clan, Pete and Chris. This was our gift from them. It was a good one.

My nephew Caden (LoraLeigh's)

on one of our walks down to the pier. Trevon, Cam and myself.

My brother Kiff. He thought surfing was ok. He thinks he'll stick with snowboarding.

Tim however is a surfer through and through. He loves it!

Tim with Mom and Dad, I think it's a great pic.

more pics to come.

PriMarY KicKbaLL

2011-06-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

It was bright, it was warm, it was early but never fear the Turley's will be there. I am glad that my kids love to be active. They were so excited when they saw that it was Primary kickball Monday morning at 6 am. Even Trevon who has long since graduated from Primary insisted on getting up to go. He wanted to help coach. CraZy KiDs that I love!

I heart my Garden

2011-06-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

The garden is still growing strong and I love caring for it. The cucumbers are seriously multiplying. The foilage from the cucs is by far my favorite. I just love to peak down through it and find all of the cucumbers. They are crisp and oh so good.
I also love to see these little cherry tomatoes in all of their stages of ripeness. Simply beautiful to me. Call me strange, I just don't care. Love them! Jaron has always loved tomatoes, especially this size, he eats them like grapes. Good thing I pick a bowl a day.

These yellow bell peppers are just starting to ripen and turn. Can't wait to taste them.

The peppers are beginning to ripen as well. My mouth is watering thinking about how good they will be.

Remember my snap peas that I planted late. Well they are coming up nicely and doing well despite the heat. Yeah for shade!

There is one particular plant in my garden that is by far the largest. I am amazed by the size of the leafs. Seriously, look at this one leaf (and there are about 15 others this size on the same plant). I put my thumb at the bottom of it to show you just how big it is. I'm thinking it must be the location of the garden because I have other plants that are the exact same variety and they are a 1/3 of this size. It is an acorn squash plant by the way.

I love picking all of the fresh produce. This is what I harvested yesterday. Pretty typical of what I get daily. I love sharing with friends and family. It is more than we can eat daily. If you haven't had a chance to get some and would like to, please let me know.

The radishes are so large (maybe I should have picked them sooner???) but they taste super good. You can see that some of them are even longer than my thumb.

Did I mention that I am really enjoying my garden? Maybe just once or twice.

The Trek

2011-06-06T21:56:00.000-07:00

Jaron, Trevon & myself just got back from our Stake Trek
"You May Rescue, You May Save"
It was powerful, so glad we were a part of it.
Jaron giving me the thumbs up as they were starting out. Pretty excited!

Trevon with his first family chore on the trek.

Jaron with Bro. Jasper (former young men's leader & one of his fav people)

Trevon & I before they headed out on the trail.

I was one of the cooks. For 550 people. Craziness!

Trevon with his Trek family.

Jaron with his trek family.

It was a great experience and they both really enjoyed it. Thankful for our pioneers & our rich heritage & that we could experience a little taste of the many hardships they endured. Helps you to see the bigger picture and that yes, there will be mountains to climb and trails to blaze but we to can push through and overcome the obstacles placed in our path. Then & now.

Boys vs. Girls

2011-06-05T09:46:00.001-07:00

3 cute little girls stopped by our house for a visit. They were out on a walk with their dad. As you can see they like to play with the boys.

Addie, Grace & Kate vs. Jaron, Trevon & Cam

They have nicknamed Jaron "Scooby". Haha, not sure where it came from.

Of course the boys were gentle with them but the best part was when Grace divebombed on Jaron. They can certainly hold their own.

I love how Grace had to stop and pose for this one.

I love this picture! The next day the two older girls had a date with their dad to a ball game. We were lucky enough to get to watch Kate. She and Richard fell asleep while watching Strawberry Shortcake catoons. Their cute Mom was just home from the hospital after having another adorable baby girl, Meg. I'm sure Meg will be wrestling with the boys before long too!

HaPPy Birthday Teeny

2011-06-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

We recently had a birthday celebration for Aunt Teeny whom we love dearly. We were celebrating 70 years of adventure this great lady has lived thus far. She is the one below in the pink shirt.
Many of her loved ones came to celebrate with her at this oh so fun SurPriSe ParTy.

We had delectable munchies and lots of catching up with new & old friends.

End of School Year Stuff

2011-06-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

The end of the school year is always so busy with stuff. We are proud of the boys and the desire they have to get involved. Below is Camdon at his end of the year band concert. Keep it up Cam, we like what we hear.

Has anyone had trouble with blogger? So frustrating. It wont let me write where I want to on this post.

Then we have Trevon at his end of year band concert playing the Tuba. Not the best picture but all we could get of him.

and last we have Jaron & Trevon at the volleyball banquet. Jaron got his 'letter' for playing a varsity sport. Trevon finished his first season of playing volleyball on the JV team. They both really love Volleyball and we love to watch them play.

Again, if you have any tips for me on this blog problem, I'd love to hear them. Thanks.

Growing Up

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

My kids are growing up and while I am very proud of them.... I don't like it. Not one bit! Only because that means they are getting closer to that time in their life when they move on and leave our little nest. That nest where we have tried to nurture them and teach them and most of all 'love them'. Trevon just finished his Junior High years. He is moving on to High School. Yikes! How is it that I will have two in High School next year? Jaron will be a Senior. Camdon will be completing his last year of Elementary school. I can hardly believe it.
Here is Trevon all dressed up and heading to the big 9th grade formal dance. The end of the year celebration for the 9th graders. Isn't he so handsome!

Sure do love my boys! All 4 of them.

Meet Albert Einstein

2011-05-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

Camdon recently participated in the Wax Museum at school and he had fun portraying Albert Einstein. We couldn't find the right kind of wig so we had to get creative and bought a beard that we made into this wig below. Not bad, eh?
Here he is in character below at school with the 'crazy' Albert Einstein eyes. Also you may notice that he is wearing a different moustache. The one above he liked better but it was a little heavy and so we had to take from that beard and walaa.... new moustache.

Albert Einstein, you never looked so good!

How does your garden grow?

2011-05-17T06:58:00.000-07:00

We planted a garden for the first time since moving to the valley 12 years ago. I am totally LOVING it!!! Seriously, I love caring for these plants. Watering, weeding, harvesting. It's a time to reflect and I just find it calming. These might seem like silly pictures to some of you but I'm pretty proud of these plants.
We have acorn squash.

and zuchinni. Only 2 plants because I knew that it produced like crazy.

My green beans. Very tasty might I add.

Peppers.

& Cilantro for all my tomotoes I plan to harvest. Yuummmmy salsa.

Summer squash. We have loads of it, hint hint. Let me know if you want some.

Bell Peppers.

I have 3 different kinds of tomato plants. The one pictured below is kind of a pear shape.

My cherry tomatoes which are just starting to ripen. Love them in salads.

My radishes which I planted not to long ago. They are coming up nicely.

The cucumbers have been so out of this world good. Love them for a snack.

This is the greenery from the cucumber plants. I just love how it looks. Silly me.

My carrots. We cooked some with a roast recently. Yum!!!

I had some room left in the garden and decided to try sugar snap peas. They are just coming up. We'll see how they do with the summer heat. They are in a protected area so hopefully they will survive.

The turtles are out and about more these days and they are enjoying all of the greens from the garden as well. They love the carrot tops, squash leaves and cilantro. The one below is Camdon's and her name is Angie unless she turns out to be a boy, then he is Fred.

This one is Jaron's and he/she is a little more shy. Alex is the name, safe for either sex. They dug this burrow on their own and it is quite impressive and deep. We have shone a flashlight down in there before and you can't even see the end of it.

If Jaron's tortoise sees anyone at all he goes down in the burrow until we leave. But Camdon's is quite social. I guess even turtles have issues.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great day!!!

NaP TiMe

2011-05-16T12:16:00.000-07:00

When your kids are little they seem to have the theory that nap time is not a good thing.

This is one of the positive things about having teenagers.

Nap time becomes a good thing again.

Yeah for Sunday afternoon naps!

Bye Bye Bees

2011-04-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

Approximately 8 months ago we noticed a lot of bees flying around the back section of our yard.

It wasn't in an area that we really used so we just kind of left them alone and thought they would move on. Well, they didnt. As a matter of fact they had taken up residency under our shed. In the past month we had noticed that they were increasing in number & our neighbors were starting to complain about it. So we attempted several things. 1. We found the location where they were entering(small hole in the siding like where a screw would go) and sealed it up. We assumed they would die because they couldnt get out. Wrong. Bees can burrow or dig and that is exactly what they did. They made a new entrance from underground. 2. We sealed off the new underground entrance and the area around it. This is when we really noticed an increase in the numbers. Like 3x as many as we had seen before. The neighbors didnt like this and voiced their concerns. Hey, we were trying. 3. We had also bought many cans of that foam bee spray and used them all killing many bees. However, it never seemed to make a dent. Well, one day recently I was back there tending to my garden and I could seriously hear the hum from their buzzing so loud that I was really concerned about my safety of just being out there. They were just out of control in number. 4. So, I got online and did some research. I learned that we had done it all wrong. First of all, bees need water and if you seal off their entrance to their home where ever that may be they go into panic mode and send off a signal for help which brings in other bees (hence the numbers increasing). These new bees will then dig or do whatever to make a new entrance. I also learned that you have got to completely remove the honey, honeycomb and all bees in the home or it will just keep happening. You cannot just do away with the bees because any bees passing by will smell it and would rather take up residency in an abadoned home than start over. The first thing we did after learning this was to open their entrance back up so that they would stop calling for help. We did notice a significant decrease in the numbers.

I found the whole thing kind of fascinating. Take a look below.

Jaron & Trevon suited up and ready for some action!

This is what the area under the shed should look like. Clear & open. They removed a small section of the flooring to see where exactly they were at. This was the first look at what all we found. Then they came in to get suited up to deal with all of the bees. It is hard to grasp just how many there were. But it was hundreds, maybe even into the thousands. We have an awesome home teacher who just happened to come by about a week earlier and you know how they always ask what they can do for you? Well, Richard asked, Do you have any bee keeper suits? and he actually did have access to some which he brought over. Thanks Dave!!! Richard sealed off the arm & leg openings because we had heard that if there is a way to get in they will find it and we didn't want to take any chances with the boys who really wanted to do this.

Trevon above, Jaron below.

I had also read that the first thing you want to do is smoke the area because this will calm the bees which is a good thing when you are dealing with this many. They will also go into a tight formation because they are trying to protect the queen. This is a good thing when you need to eliminate them.

Here is more of the honey, comb & bees. Alot of these bees were still alive at this point. They would not leave the comb because they have to protect that queen bee. So interesting to me. It was so sticky, gooey and messy down there.

This was their main entrance, exit. Once we had their home opened and exposed they just flocked to this area like they were trying to protect it. If you want to see any of the pictures in a larger format just click on it and it should enlarge it.

Removing the last section of flooring where they were at. It looks like it is wet but it is actually honey. The plywood was several layers thick and this is the bottom layer of it that they had been attaching their honeycomb to.

More honeycomb.

Checking it out. It was actually pretty thick stuff. If you have ever had a humidifier you know how there is the filter thing that you have to replace every so often. Well it reminded me of that in texture. It almost felt like a material and is pretty hardy stuff.

We were not able to eat any of the honey or comb because our main purpose was to be rid of the bees so we had sprayed everything with a professional grade insecticide. We burned whatever was left. We assume that the queen must have been inside this mess below because they were still lots of bees all over & inside this honeycomb. Even when it started to burn they would not leave when they could have easily just flown off. It was alsmost like they were willing to die protecting that queen. Sad but we didn't know what else to do. We certainly aren't professionals at this and hope to never deal with it again. You can see the honey just dripping out.

The boys wanted to keep a couple of pieces of the comb to really check it out. It is pretty cool stuff. So, that was our adventure on Saturday in a nutshell. Pretty crazy, huh?

oh and no one was stung on Saturday, not once. Whew.

Honor Band

2011-04-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

Trevon recently performed in the Regional Junior High Honor Band. It was a fabulous performance and they were just AmaZiNg!!! I was seriously so proud of him!!!

You have to try out to be in the band. The area consists of all of the Junior High Schools in Mesa. They only select a certain number to represent each instrument. He plays the tuba and I don't know how many kids tried out but it is alot. They selected 4 tuba players out of all of them. He got second chair and it was quite an honor. We are thankful for grandparents who support him in all that he does. They are the best!!!

Can you tell I am so proud?

Thank you also to Aunt Kellie and Natasha who also came to hear him play.

You rocked the house Trev!!!

Trevon is 15

2011-03-23T20:05:00.000-07:00

Somebody had a birthday & he is 15!!!

Trevon has so many great friends and a few of them surprised him bright & early on his big day. They came over just after 5:00 am. We are not normally awake at that time but these kids all have A hours at school so we had to get an early start to fit everything in. They all got up at 4 am to meet at one of the girls house to get everything together for the big surprise. Man, those are some good friends because I'm not sure I would have done that when I was their age.

So they were hiding in the dining room when he finally came out. I sent him in there to clear off the table because (wink-wink) Gma & Gpa were coming over for breakfast that morning. I also had to tell him it was an hour later than it really was or he would of thought I was crazy for getting him up that early.They definately surprised him & it was so fun to watch. His friend Kevin had gotten a pinata and they had filled it with all of their cards & gifts. I thought it was funny that they didn't want him to bust it open. So it is hanging in his room as decoration.
He loved it!

They also had to show him the yard decor that they had made and put all over.

He can thank the girls for this fun part of the surprise.

Again with the pinata that he thought was so cool.

Opening cards & gifts from the gang.

We made them all breakfast. Waffles, scrambled eggs, bacon and of course buttermilk syrup.

Then it was off to school for this group! He truly has AweSoMe friends!!! Thanks everyone for making him feel so loved!

Valentines Day Dinner

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

This is my sweet little niece Tatum eating her cookie that Aunt Carrie made for everyone. Isn't she just adorable!

Trying to crack the egg with Camdon on the trampoline.
She gave each of us our very own personalized chapstick for Valentine's Day.
(Super cute Tiffani)

Hugs for Uncle Richard

and for Aunt Carrie

Showing Jaron how to put on his chapstick.

Big hugs for Grandma.

We also celebrated Howards birthday.

with a little help from Tatum. Do you think she is the star of the show at every single Turley dinner? You know it!!!

Cute Carder videos

2011-03-02T18:46:00.000-08:00

So I may be a little partial but I just think these two videos are the cutest. I love how he just sings & makes up the words as he goes.

Recorded on my phone so not the best quality but you get the idea.

Visiting Family

2011-02-25T09:46:00.000-08:00

I was recently blessed to spend some time with my sister LL at her new home in Texas. It was a treat for me to go & play with her cute kids whom I adore. Below is Princess Kamrielle all dressed up & looking so lovely.

Sweet Carder boy has turned into quite the musician. He sings (quite well) and plays the piano as you will see.
Playing & singing a song he made up that was just as cute as can be.
One of the most easy going, laid back babies I've ever known - C.R. Love him to pieces!
LL & I as we were heading out the door for an afternoon of antique shopping. I forgot my camera believe it or not so my phone had to do for taking pics. Got to attend a couple of Caden's basketball games. That was sure fun. He is a great ball player!

So glad I got to go, thanks for all the fun!

Valentine Decor

2011-02-10T19:41:00.000-08:00

You know I love to decorate for holidays, right? This year after Christmas I got a really great deal on this tree. $9.00 to be exact. I decided it would be perfect for a Valentine tree.
This cute little ornament was made by Trevon when he was in preschool with Miss Marilyn. It's a treasure.

I love my apothecary jars. I reuse the same candy year after year. My kids know that it is old and they don't touch it. However, their friends come over and think it's the greatest thing. We warn them that it could break a tooth and couldn't possibly taste very fresh. They don't care! It boggles my mind but they eat it anyway. Yuck!

Happy Valentines Day Friends & Family. We love you!

Exciting News

2011-02-09T12:06:00.000-08:00

Last year (as in Jan. 2010) after Christmas we decided to tear out all of our old tile. It was white & glossy & so hard to keep clean. Not to mention really slick when it's wet. Ya there is a funny story behind that but we wont get into it today. Anyhow, for many different reasons from time to money and the heat to being too busy we lived with the concrete look for a year.

For Christmas this year I asked if we could pretty please get the new tile in. We went with travertine and I really wanted this border around the edges. I was informed that this would be alot of extra work. However, I like things to be different and unique and so Richard being the nice guy that he is went the extra mile. Thank you, thank you it looks so good.
He is constantly reminding me that he is not a proffesional at this but I think it looks amazing and that he has done a fantabulous job!!! It isn't finished yet. It hasn't been grouted and we still need to get the trim up but I had to give you a sneak peak at the new flooring.

What do you think?

Suns Game Night

2011-02-09T06:01:00.000-08:00

Jaron, Camdon & I recently attended a Suns Game and we had really GreAt SeaTs (Row 22)

It was a ton of fun & we loved being there amid all the action. We were smack dab in the middle of all the season ticket holders and let me just say they are hard core fans in that section. It was almost as fun to watch them as it was the game.

Quick Trip

2011-02-06T20:52:00.000-08:00

Had a fun day in Show Low on Saturday. My sister was in town for a short visit & we had to go and see the kids. It was short & sweet but oh so worth it!

Me, Mom & LoraLeigh
C.R. & Jaron.

LoraLeigh with her 3 little ones who are just as sweet as can be.

Sure do love them!

Jaron, Grandma Whipple, C.R., Grandpa Whipple & Carder

Trying to get a picture of this sweet little guy giving me a kiss on the cheek. Didn't quite capture it but I just love that little face. Sweetest little boy!

So glad we got to go & play with them. Yes, I see you Kamrielle doing rabbit ears on me. You got me silly girl!

My Grandpa

2011-01-11T21:52:00.000-08:00

This is my Grandpa. The only grandpa I've ever had or known. He is a good man. Always trying to do the right thing. The best example I know at journal writing. Fun & loving. Dedicated & giving. I'm going to miss him. He isn't expected to live but a few more days if that. This picture was taken just a few weeks ago on Christmas Eve as he joined us at my parents home.

I know that I can be a little sentimental so bear with me while I reminisce just a bit.

He loves all of his grandkids & great grandkids and he has always been a big kid at heart but for some reason Camdon has always held a special place in his heart. He just seems to light up when Camdon is around. If he didn't have a smile on his face already, the minute Camdon would walk in the room he certainly would. He would usually follow that big smile up with, 'theres my boy'
This picture was taken 2 Christmas' ago with most of the Whipple grandkids.

He has been so good to my grandma all these years and I love that about him.

Playing with Kamrielle a great grand daughter.

with Jaron

and once again with Camdon and his dog Minnie.

I love you Grandpa, always will.

Winter Formal for Jaron & friends

2011-01-10T09:50:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind with this post but here it is.

The whole group.

Jaron had a great time at Winter Formal.

Here are the guys looking oh so handsome.

He was asked by Sydnee and here they are looking lovely all dressed up. Her dress was beautiful in cream & plum with Jaron dressed to match.

A fun time was had by all.

Our Christmas Week

2010-12-26T18:12:00.000-08:00

First off we headed down to the temple to see the lights.

They were beautiful, as always.
It always helps to start the season off right.
They always add a few new things each year but it's good to see some of the classics like the wisemen crossing the lawn. A favorite of mine.

Monday night we had Richards family over for dinner & we played the white elephant game.

One of the funniest gifts of the night was the 'booty bop'

modeled here by Jarrett. Hilarious!

Tatum stopped by with her dad before they headed out of town. Jaron & Tatum had drawn eachothers names so here they are exchanging their gifts.

She gave Jaron a lifting bar that hooks to your door frame. He loved it!

and he made her a stool & got her some petshop toys. She loved them!

On Christmas Eve we headed over to my parents for our traditional navajo tacos. They are delicous and something we always look forward to.

My grandparents joined us as well. It's always good to spend time with them.

Grandma Whipple with the boys.

I was remembering a funny story that got us all to laughing. I could hardly talk I was laughing so hard.

Here we go, a little better. My grandma, my mother & me.

Our crew. Trevon & his faces. Silly boy!

My parents

Christmas Eve, our nerds.

Excited to open gifts, Jaron handing them out.

Love those hugs! Jaron thanking Cam for his gift.

Camdon has been wanting a robe forever, his wishes came true.

and I am thrilled because I am getting new tile in the kitchen/hall/entry.

There is a funny story behind this Arizona 1912 shirt. It's a long one though so I won't be going into it.

Hope you all had a memorable Christmas. We sure did.

Ward Christmas Party

2010-12-13T15:51:00.000-08:00

We attended our Ward Christmas Party a while back. The kids were asked to come dressed up as a character from The Nativity scene. So here is Camdon in his Shepherd outfit.

I was happy this night that the boys were all willing to take a picture (and it's pretty much a one shot deal so eyes closed or not this is it). This is a rare occasion these days so we'd better document it.
Trevon however is usually a little more co-operative. Love this kid!

Richard had already been down at the church for hours by the time we got there. The dessert that night was cobbler cooked in dutch ovens. It was the highlight of the evening. There was plenty of it & it was most enjoyable. Hope that you are enjoying this beautiful time of year.

Love those Wyatt kids!

2010-11-21T21:54:00.000-08:00

My sister & her husband recently went on vacation to Mexico & her 3 little ones came to the valley. We loved every minute of it & had so much fun. My mom & dad had them for the most part, it's a pretty busy time for me workwise but we took them as often as we could.

Kamrielle sporting her cute new haircut. She loves these magnetix and I love that smile!
Carder with his truck.

Watching tv with the boys one afternoon & Carder zonked out.

Kamrielle was in Hannah Montana heaven with the television.

She must have been missing her mom & dad because she just kindof wandered over and climbed up to watch tv with Uncle Richard. So cute.

We train 'em young at our house. Haha.

Stealing some sugar from this sweet thing and it sure was tasty. I thought C.R. would be the hardest to watch just because of his age and he is crawling. However, he was the easiest. He is sooo sweet and sooo good.

Love & miss these cute boys!

LL, your kids loved these magnetix. Spent hours playing with them. Maybe you should think about them as a Christmas gift???

Oh and thanks for sharing your sweet children with us. We sure do love them.

HaPPy FaLL Ya'LL

2010-11-15T12:08:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite piece of fall decor. Love the saying.

I love the colors of fall. There is something calming about them.

Made a cornucopia for myself & my sister in law this year. This one happens to be the one I gave her.

and now we are ready to enjoy this Thanksgiving season. We do have much to be grateful for including good friends & family.

A visit from Todd's family

2010-11-14T16:02:00.000-08:00

My brother Todd & family were recently in town. Didn't get to see him a whole lot because he was really here for his "big 20 yr high school reunion". However, we did get spend Sunday evening with them. We enjoyed dinner & a card game & lots of visiting. It was very enjoyable as always just way too short.

Wallpaper Project

2010-11-06T21:37:00.000-07:00

I bought this wallpaper about a year ago when Lowes was clearancing out all of their wallpaper. I loved it immediately because it matched my couch so well and plus I love this color (rust).

So, I finally decided to just get it done. Here it is part way up. You can see how plain the wall looked and how much more vibrant the wall looks with this great splash of color.

I even had a little helper that afternoon while doing this project. Watching cute little Kate and she was so good and just sat there & watched me. She is adorable just like her sisters.
So here it is with the couch.

and my 3 favorite boys.

and some art that I found to match it.

plus family pictures from 2 years ago. Better late than never, eh?

I was very pleased with the end results. What do you think?

Jaron goes to Homecoming

2010-11-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

I realize that I am just a being a Mom but...

doesn't he just look sooo handsome!

Jaron & Syndey (love her dress)
Their Homecoming group

Having some fun with the pictures.

I love that all of the girls wore modest dresses. Yeah!

A nice shot as the sun was setting.

They had dinner from Olive Garden on top of one of the grandfathers balcony. Very cool!

at dinner.

Jaron, Sydney, Ashlee & Brandon

Love this, too funny!

Another fun one.

HaPPy HaLLowEEn

2010-11-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a Frightfully Fun Halloween.

Trevon was a Mountain Man. He will be going to Mountain Man Rendevous in the Spring and just recently finished making his capote (coat) which he is pretty excited about hence the costume.
Richard was quite the pirate, missing teeth and all.

Camdon was the cutest little hobo I've ever seen.

I was a blast from the past, 80's punk rocker.

It was a FuN NigHt and we had a great time!

3 things that made me SmiLe

2010-10-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

Richard built this beautiful new dining room table that seats 10, yes I said 10. It was a lot of work and he should be very proud of it. I love to entertain & have people over so it will be so perfect for gatherings. It is lovely in every way and I am thrilled to have it along with the beautiful chairs that we picked out. Ahhhh, it makes me smile.

I woke up this morning to rain & not just rain but a chill in the air that I haven't felt in many months. I opened up the house and loved the fresh clean breeze that was blowing throughout. Ahhhh, it makes me smile. I took this picture on my way to take the boys to school. It is a little hard to see but I loved the way the clouds were sitting on top of the Superstition Mountains. Ahhhh, it makes me smile.
and finally on my way to work this morning I drove by this house and noticed this dog sitting up on top of this roof. It made me laugh out loud and it certainly isn't something you see every day. Actually, never have seen a dog sitting up on the roof just taking in the nice day. I got about a 1/2 mile past it and decided I had to turn around and get a picture. Ahhhh, it makes me smile.

I hope you have found many reasons to smile on this fine day.

Arrow of Light

2010-09-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

Oh boy do I love that face! Camdon just completed the cub scout program and has moved on to boy scouts. We are very proud of him & his hard work.

After 8+ yrs of cub scouts (from Jaron to Camdon) and pack meetings this was our last one and while they are always entertaining and full of fun for the whole family I must say that there were no tears. Is that bad?
They were learning about team work and cooperation which is the reason for the partner games. He really liked the human wheelbarrow relay.

with some of the the other boys in his pack.

The great excitement of the night was that he earned his Arrow of Light and we couldn't be more proud. Here he is presenting me with my pin for being his helper.

He got to cross the bridge which symbolizes him leaving the cub scout program and heading into the boy scout program. This is his new leader.

Grandpa & Grandma Whipple came for the event. Thanks for your support.

Here he is with his cub leaders. They were AweSoMe!!!

Way to go Camdon, keep up the good work!

HaPPy BirThdAy DaD

2010-09-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

Wanted to wish my Dad a HaPPy BirThdAy!!! He is quiet & tends to keep to himself but he would be the first one to offer a listening ear or a helping hand if you needed it. I love him & am grateful for his unselfish acts of kindness that he offers so willingly.

We recently spent some time out in the mountains with him and I love this picture that I captured of him. To me it speaks volumes. Love ya Dad! Glad I got to spend some time with you today.

Camdon is "11"

2010-09-03T09:01:00.000-07:00

My baby boy is growing up and I can't seem to do anything to stop it.

He requested to have 'breakfast in bed' and in my bed no less. Silly boy. He wanted scrambled eggs with bacon, toast & apple juice and that's exactly what he got.

Here he is with his new bike. He had to ride to school, of course.
Jaron giving his little brother a birthday hug.

Waiting to be seated.

He chose the Texas Roadhouse. One of our favorites.

He invited both sets of grandparents. Here he is with Grandma Turley.

and Grandma Whipple.

Pretty excited about his meal. He is such a poser and I love that about him.

and he got to sit on the bull while they gave a shout out for his birthday.

and he enjoyed his free dish of ice cream.

with Grandpa Turley.

and Grandpa Whipple.

Thanks for helping us to celebrate.

I love this!!!

2010-08-26T21:55:00.000-07:00

What a great way to start a day. I think this little girl is so cute and I love her positive attitude. Happy day to you!!!

Still Smiling

2010-08-14T15:53:00.000-07:00

Yep, It's official. I've turned 40 and I'm still smiling. Onward & upward, that's my attitude. I wouldn't erase any of my wrinkles to go backwards either. I am grateful for the years behind me and looking forward to the years ahead of me. I believe that over those years I have become a little wiser, a little stronger & a little kinder among other things I hope. Looking forward to the next 40 or more. It was a great day! It started off with this happy belgian waffle made by Camdon and continued to get better from there. I want to say to all of my family & friends thank you for the love I received all day long. From texts to emails, blog posts & phone calls. Messages on facebook to loved ones stopping by. Breakfast, lunch & dinner dates, thoughtful gifts, and the love went on all day. Thank you for making me feel so special on my birthday. I love you all!!!

Back to school they go

2010-08-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

The house is quiet this morning and I must admit that I am enjoying it.

The boys headed back to school this morning. As they get older they are not quite as cooperative in getting their picture taken. I told them it is tradition, I always take a picture on the 1st day of school. Jaron said that he will never torture his kids by making them take pictures. Thank you Jaron for smiling even if you are being tortured. Oh and don't worry this someday Grandma will be happy to stop by when your kids start school and I will be armed with a camera ready for torturing them too!

Isn't he so handsome? He is a big, bad Junior this year.

Ahhh my cute Trevon trying so hard to keep his eyes open is (Yikes) a freshman this year.
and just look at the smile on this adorable boy! Can boys be adorable? Yep, one look at him will solidify that question. Camdon is in the 5th grade and his last year of elementary school.

Atleast I've got one who doesn't mind having his picture taken. We had to be sure and get this view to show his smile where he lost a tooth just in time for back to school.

and now I am going to clean my house and enjoy it for the few hours it will last.

HaPPy BirThdAy SisTeR DeaR

2010-08-03T07:28:00.000-07:00

Today is my sister LoraLeighs birthday and this isn't the best picture of either of us (hello we were camping) but it's the first one that I could find of the two of us. I just want you all to know that she is the best!!! Here are some things you may not know about her; She is fun * An Inspiration * Athletic * Awesome Mom * Very best friend * Competitive * Usually Late * Beautiful * A big tease * Healthy * Generous * Dedicated * Awesome Sister * Big Heart * Kind * A homebody * Loves to excercise * Fabulous Cook * Coupon Clipper * Funny * Loves to laugh * Spiritual * Go-getter * and the very best thing is that she is my sister & I love her to pieces!!! Have a fabulous day in Texas where you are too far away and I hope that you will be home oh so very soon. Miss you! Love you! Talk to you soon.

Hardy Family Reunion

2010-08-02T17:38:00.000-07:00

Just got back from our family reunion and it was great as always. Lots of rain this year but it didn't put a damper on any of our festivities or fun! Here is cute little Tatum riding her oh so cool bike.

She can't quite reach the peddles so Jaron was helping her out a bit.

She loved my umbrella, even in the trailer without the rain. Such a cutie!

Warming for a volleyball game.

The kids games sure were fun. Here is Camdon trying to get the frisbee through these hoops. He did it!

Jaron & Torrin

Shooting Nerf darts at the target.

Shooting down army men with a water gun.

After the games were over, I headed down river with my chair and just totally relaxed. Read my book, snoozed, watched the kids play & loved every minute of it.

Camdon even came down for a little visit. He was trying to sneak up on me, but I saw him.

Even had some cows come by for a visit.

Camdon playing in the river with his cousins.

They climbed trees

and tubed.

Love this boy and his sense of adventure!

The big volleyball game - Jaron in action!

More creek time.

Isn't it just beautiful there

and of course, lots of card playing as well.

It was a great week!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2010-07-27T11:42:00.000-07:00

There are many places that I like to go but this is one of my favorites!

Yes, the time has come to go and spend some time right next to this little creek. I plan to set my lounge chair right here in this cozy little spot. I will read a book, visit with family, and maybe even take a nap or two. Yes there will be lots of card playing, roasting of marshmallows, and cooler temps as well. Indeed, it is The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

CaMdoN the RocKeR

2010-07-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

This is the real deal. I assure you it is not a photo that has been photoshopped. Camdon really does have a mohawk. Yes, this all came about on Monday when his Aunt Carrie was fulfilling her end of the deal to give Camdon his long awaited mohawk. He wanted it to be red, white & blue but it was decided that bleach may not be the best thing so he got 2 colors. He went to the mall with me Monday evening and I had gotten used to it so didn't think a thing when we headed in. After a few minutes I felt like everyone was staring at me and giving me really funny looks. I thought to myself... Is my shirt on backwards? Do I have 2 different shoes on? Oh please tell me I don't have t.p. hanging out my pants. Then I looked at Camdon and realized it was his mohawk. Yep, I was actually getting dirty looks from people (mostly older women) who were shaking their heads and probably saying 'What was she thinking letting her little boy get that haircut?' It was an interesting lesson to me about pre-judging people based on their appearance. On one hand, I couldnt help but agree with them. Appearance can be important, especially when applying for a job & such. However, it also clinched the old saying "You can't judge a book by it's cover".

Well, despite the looks he got (which he didn't even seem to notice & I said nothing) he is loving it!!! We went in the pet store which is his favorite place to go and when exiting he said, "Mom, did you see that girl in there that was my age?" I replied that no I hadn't noticed her. He said, "Well, she was checking me out and I'm pretty sure it was the mohawk". Funny kid!!! He makes me laugh. The mohawk will be short lived for all of you concerned folk, about 10 days. He does get to go to church one week with it (should be interesting) and he gets to wear it to our Family Reunion. Upon our return and school starting he will be shaving it off and can enjoy the rest of our hot summer with a buzz.

CouSiNs!!!

2010-07-19T22:18:00.000-07:00

My sister LoraLeigh and I have been swapping kids this past week and it sure has been fun. We had Kamrielle first for a week and loved every minute of it. She loves to be in the pool as much as I do so we did lots of swimming. On Sunday we were getting ready for church and I was just planning to braid her hair but she announced that she wanted her hair to look just like Aunt Marcy's. Well..... you know I loved that! So..... we had to curl it to look just like Aunt Marcy's. Love that girl!!!

and now it is Carder's turn but just for 2 days (he's still a little guy). I took him to Wal-Mart with me today. He was just plain tuckered out after all the swimming we did this morning. Fell asleep right in the cart. His little head was just bobbing everywhere so I laid it down on his new truck. I think just about every other person we passed stopped to say how cute he was and I had to agree. Not only is he dang cute but he is just as sweet as they come.
LoraLeigh has my two big boys. Yep, I got the better end of the deal. Sorry boys, love ya!!! We are meeting in Payson tomorrow to trade back kids before they head off for the big ol' state of Texas. Thanks for sharing your kids with me, love them to pieces!!!

SuMMeR DaYs

2010-07-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

Summer is in full swing here at our house and going by far to quickly. Seriously, didn't the kids just get out of school? I don't even want to think about them going back yet. We have LL's daughter Kamrielle here staying with us and she is so much fun! Girls are just so different and so fun dress up. We had to make a hair flower to match her outfit for the day. All of the young women came over for mutual this week and we made hair flowers. They each got to make 4 and Kamrielle got to join right in. She loved it!

She can certainly strike a pose. Too cute!
We have been spending lots of time in the pool trying to keep cool. Even Pack Meeting this week was water themed. They did a water relay and had so much fun.
They had to walk with a cup full of water down to fill up another cup. Pretty fun.

Didn't get pictures of all the stations but here is another where they had to toss a frisbee through the ring while having water balloons thrown at them. They loved it.

Camdon receiving his "cool" awards. They were frozen in the middle of these blocks of ice. So creative. (Did you notice the nose picker in the bottom of this pic...kids are so funny)

Oh, and I just recently took down my 4th of July display and put up summer even though it is halfway over. I love these colors. They make me HaPPy!

Hope you are enjoying every minute of your SuMMer!!!

Fun times with people we Love!

2010-07-12T20:37:00.000-07:00

Jaron & C.R. with LL's beautiful Hollyhocks behind them.

Playing some football.
Carder & his new big boy haircut.

We got to go & visit a friend of Kamrielle's house today who had lots of fun animals. They had a great time.

Even got to ride a horse.

Look at those smiles!

These were such interesting little creatures, Alpaca's.

More Football.

Feeding the pony.

Fun times with people we love = a great day!

I'm happy because I choose to be

2010-07-08T21:37:00.000-07:00

Part 1 - I headed out on my bike tonight just before dusk. This is my favorite time to be outdoors (not sure why). It was a beautiful ride because just to the east which is the direction I was heading there was a storm a brewin' and I do love summer storms. You could see rain in the distance and a rainbow. It was so beautiful. There was a breeze blowing and I just felt so grateful to be alive & healthy, enjoying the beauty all around me. Sometimes you can just feel overwhelmed with life but I decided on this ride, "I'm happy because I choose to be". Simple as that.

Part 2 - I was pretty hot & sweaty when I got home so I jumped in the shower, put my suit on & headed out to the pool. It felt soooo good.... just cool & relaxing. After a few minutes Camdon came out and here is how our conversation went.

C- Hi Mom. Can I join you in the pool? (I love that he is so polite to ask)

M- Sure, come on out.

C - You aren't planning to get out soon, are you?

M - No, I will be in here for awhile. Why?

C - Ok good because I just want to be with you.

This is the part when my heart melted. I love this boy and I especially love that he still likes to be with me. Hope you are lucky enough to have someone like this in your life.

Jaron is 16

2010-07-07T17:06:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that this boy who was just born a few years ago it seems has turned 16. Yikes! We were in Vegas on his birthday selling fireworks so we took a cake over to celebrate with all of the cousins who were in town. The poor kid got sick the next day and was down in bed for the next 3 days. It ended up being strep throat (who gets strep in July???) and he is finally on the mend. HaPPy BirThDaY JaRon, We LovE YoU!!!

One of the BeSt DaDs EveR!!!

2010-06-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

He knows how to fix things, he gives sound advice, he yells the loudest at all the games, he can save the day, he listens when you talk, he has taught us how to shrug off the small stuff, he shows us how to be brave, he sometimes lets us win, and he is there when you need him.

Happy Fathers Day to one of the best dads ever!

Greens Peak

2010-06-13T20:54:00.000-07:00

So last week after returning from girls camp I decided to make a very quick trip up to the White Mtns. My brother Todd was up that way for a few days because 'the guys' had planned a camping trip. Well.... he doesnt come to Arizona all that often so.... even though I am not a 'guy' I had to go and crash the party even if just for a few hours. Oh and the bonus was that I got to see my sister and her kids too! Check out C.R. below, he is filling out quite nicely wouldnt you say? I could seriously eat those cheeks. YuMMy!!!

So here are 'the guys' below. Todd brought a similar picture from like 15 years ago in this same spot so of course we had to get an updated one.
Kiff, LoraLeigh, Todd & Me

I love this pic of Kamrielle & Kiff.

LL, Kam, & myself

LL & my Dad whipped up this delicous peach cobbler. Yep, I had some.

Here is my dad dishing up everyones bowls.

Sitting around the fire just shootin' the breeze.

Trevon had sprained his ankle the day before so Dr. Todd took a look at it.

This is one of the cutest faces ever! I love this boy!!!!

We played a game that was really fun. Don't know what it was called. See Jaron's face in this pic. This is the moment when he realized that there was no way he was going to win against his mother. Hee hee!

But.... I do love to see this smile. It is a catchy one.

Todd's son Luke came along for the guy trip. He is such a fun boy!

Not sure who this goofy boy belongs to. Just kidding, I will gladly claim him.

Our cousin Mike came out for the trip. He and Todd are the same age and hadn't seen eachother in ages.

Yep, he is a regular goof ball.

Kamrielle wanted to take a pic with her silly face too.

Kiff in action here.

Cousin Mike's son, Tyler had to take me on as well and he won.

Even though it was a super fast trip. Less than 24 hours. I was glad I made the trip because I got to see Todd, Luke & many others. Love you all!!!

P.S. Aren't you all so impressed that I actually updated my blog with real pictures and all? Sorry about my slacking here, Don't give up on me.

Oh What Do You Do in the Summertime?

2010-05-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

We are so excited around here because there is only 1 more day of school left!!!! The boys are excited for the obvious reasons and I am excited because I love having my children home. Ahhhh, the joys of summer. Hope you are looking forward to yours as much as we are. (More posts coming soon.... I hope)

Quick Trip

2010-04-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was our wards RS retreat. It didnt really get started until late afternoon on Friday so I decided to leave that morning and spend the day at my sisters which was only 30 minutes away. I got to see her cute kids & it was well worth the trip just for that.

Kamrielle with her new little brother CR who is becoming quite the chunk.
The Easter bunny brought Kamrielle some sidewalk chalk and we had fun drawing with all the fun colors. Above are our flowers.

Our HaPPy SuN

The Alligator that she did all on her own.

Kamrielle & I trying not to get blown over. (It was pretty windy up there)

This made me laugh so hard. This little truck had no window in the back and was carrying 7 full size sheep & 1 baby. They were just crammed in there. The picture is not great but keep in mind that I was alone, driving through the Rim and trying to take a picture on my phone.

SpRinG BreAk & CouSiNs

2010-03-29T23:51:00.000-07:00

We had a fun & relaxing Spring Break. My brother's kids were here visiting from Texas and it was great to spend so much time with them. Here is Paige below.

Enjoying Italian Soda's
Luke was a crack-up just like his Dad.
This is where things take a turn, the kids took over the camera & as you will see they had alot of fun with it. I'm thinking this must be their 'serious pose'

They even got me playing with C.R.

Carder with his cheetos

Paige (Todd's)

Then they headed outside to torture (I mean play with) the chickens.

Kamrielle cutting the grass with scissors, one blade at a time.

Paige

Carder

They even tried to hypnotize the chickens. Yes, you heard me correctly.

I know, not the most exciting pictures but it's all I have from when Todd's kids were here & I wanted to do a post with them in it. We did have lots of fun with them but I didn't do to well with the camera that week. Hey, I was on Spring Break to.

JuMp StrEEt TramPoliNe ParK

2010-03-28T11:10:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that I've been a little behind on my blogging. It's certainly not that we haven't been doing anything. We have been very busy & I just haven't taken the time to get it done. Here is something we did back at the beginning of March. Trevon wanted to go here for his birthday & we had so much fun as you will see from the pictures.

It is lined with trampolines and they even go up on the sides.
Yes, I got out there as well. Try not to laugh too hard at this picture. Just had to make sure I could still do some of those Cheer jumps you know.

Camdon making one of his funny faces.

Trevon had a blast and even went back a week later with some friends.

They also have indoor trampoline dodge ball which Jaron & Camdon enjoyed the most.

I didn't join in on this part. My idea of fun is not to be pelted with balls that people throw at you as hard as they can. I guess it's a boy thing.

It was a fun family activity and a great way to get some excercise. They have a website. www.gotjump.com located in Chandler.

Missing my other kids

2010-02-28T11:21:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know my sister had her baby boy and he had a multitude of little problems. He was flown to the valley where he spent 3 weeks in the NICU. One of the blessings that came of that was that we got to spend lots of time with her other kids helping to care for them. They have since gone home & we are missing them terribly. Here are a few of our highlights with them.

I got to go & watch Kamrielle at cheer camp. This was a real treat.
Visiting baby C.R. in the NICU when he first arrived.
One of our trips to the park. Jaron & Carder.

Carder loves horses so this was fun for him.

He like to fall asleep in this chair. All smushed up but comfy as could be. I suppose anyway, he'd sleep for hours.

We even had the privilege of meeting Hannah Montana one evening.

LoraLeigh & Vinnie when they finally got to hold him.

My first time holding him. It was pure heaven.

Some of Kamrielle's art creations that she made with the magnetix one afternoon.

Another park visit, playing some volleyball.

Riding the go cart down the hill. Gpa Turley made this with the cubscouts.

Trevon on his unicycle.

Caden & Carder. Caden only got to come on the weekends since he is a big Junior Higher now.

Jaron on the go cart.

Trevon zooming down.

and yes, they even got me on it. LOL

playing on the swings.

btw, Jaron just made the volleyball team and we are very proud of him.

and finally after 3 weeks C.R. came home and here are Kamrielle and Carder meeting him for the very first time. It was sweet to watch. We are so glad for the happy ending and that they are all home safe & sound but..... I miss my other kids terribly.

Blue & Gold Banquet

2010-02-20T11:39:00.000-08:00

This last week Camdon had his blue & gold banquet. It was a nice evening as always.

Here he is with some of his fellow cub scouts

Trevon modeling the glasses someone made. Celebrating 100 yrs of scouting.

There was a pinata that the younger scouts had made. You know that's always a big hit with the kids.

and then we ended the evening with a nice program.
We are thanful that Camdon enjoys scouting and that he has had such great leaders over the years.

A 'Budding' Artist

2010-01-20T20:50:00.000-08:00

Camdon came home from school today and said he needed to draw something & I was not to peek at it until he was done. He spent a good 45 minutes working on this masterpiece. Isn't it just beautiful? I love that boy!

A trip to ShowLow

2010-01-17T17:45:00.000-08:00

Camdon & I took a trip to ShowLow this past week to visit my sister & her family. We had a great time! It had been a long time since we had been to see them. It was fun & relaxing to just hang out & visit. Here is Camdon helping Carder to build a tower.

This story that goes with this picture cracks me up. LoraLeigh & I went out one of the evenings for a sisters night out I guess you say. Well we headed out & when we were almost to the movie LL realized that she had the wrong shoes on. She headed out to get some wood outside before we left & had slipped these shoes on. She meant to change them & forgot. We laughed & laughed about this. We don't expect the guys to appreciate the humor in this but the girls will understand that you just dont wear blue & white polka dot shoes with gray & black. I took the picture after our fun evening when we had returned home. Btw, we saw Leap Year (cute movie) and had dinner at Mtn. Thai (very good). LL is about 3 weeks from having her 4th baby, doesn't she look amazing!
These two cute kids (Carder & Kamrielle) amazed with their boundless energy each morning. They hadn't even been awake for 10 minutes and were already performing for us. Sooo cute!!!

Meet the newest addition to the household, he is huge!

Caden & Camdon had a battle one morning and each had to build their fortress. Kamrielle even got involved in this one.

Camdon peeking out from his hide-out.

Caden inside his hide-out.

Our last day in town we headed over to the cemetary. Camdon was excited to play in the little bit of snow that was lingering from the last storm.

We wanted to take some fresh looking flowers to my sister Melissa's gravesite. She passed away 14 years earlier on this day, January 16th.

It was a nice way to end a great week.

We sure do miss her

and wanted to do something nice to honor our great memories with a dear sister.

A memorable Christmas

2010-01-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas was memorable as always. It is always fun to give to those whom you love so much. Have we mentioned lately how much we love these boys. They are good through & through and we had fun picking out gifts that we knew they would love. It always fun to see the wonder in their eyes as they come out to see what is under the tree.

Camdon loved his spark scooter!

Trevon with his unicyle, oh & his cell phone that he thought he would never get.

Jaron loves his guitar & I can't remember what he is opening that brought on that beautiful smile.

Love you boys!!!

Funny Story

2010-01-02T17:55:00.000-08:00

So today at work I had a very embarassing thing happen to me. I thought I saw someone who I knew but hadn't seen in awhile. So... here's how the conversation went.
Me- Are you Gaye?
Her - Yes I am.
Me - I thought so. I wasnt sure but you live by my sister, right?
Her - Who is your sister?
Me - LoraLeigh
Her - I don't know LoraLeigh.
Me- (blushing because I realized what I had said & what she was referring to) Aren't you Gaye with an e at the end of your name?
Her - Oh....I thought you were asking me if were Gay.
Me - (Not sure what to say) ... (I think I said) Well, I know someone who looks just like you & her name is Gaye with an e. You could be her twin.
Her - (I really don't remember what she said but she replied and I smiled and then I quickly ducked out of the store until she was gone.)

I honestly can say that when I started that conversation I was not even remotely thinking what she was thinking but looking back I realize that I could have worded that better. I should have said, "Are you Gaye Tenney because you really look like her" or something like that. Well, I'm just glad that I was able to provide all the ladies I work with a good laugh and I'm sure this lady will have a good long laugh with her friends as well.

Christmas Eve Surprise

2009-12-24T22:33:00.000-08:00

This evening as we were wrapping presents we received a knock on the door around 10:30. No one was there but this adorable house was left behind with a note that said. "Merry Christmas to the Turley family! I'll see you on Sunday but you won't see me!" We have absolutely no idea who it could have been but it was so much fun to have that surprise. Also, we are totally AmaZeD at the detail that went into this little house. It is hard to capture on camera but I did my best. Notice the gumdrop light at the top. A quite impressive little detail.

Also above you will notice the detail that went into the fence along the front including the gate. Below is the the best view of the elk which is shaped out of frosting. Wow, the time that it must have taken to make that. The little rock (jellybean) wall along the side. Sooo cute.
The roof top was beautiful, I don't even know what they used to make it. The picture below I took to capture the bird in the bottom left corner sitting on another portion of rock wall. This bird is also made from frosting and there were several of them. I am amazed at the time someone spent on creating this masterpiece and then they gave it away and won't even get any credit for it. Well, if they happen to read my blog I want them to know that we LOVED it and we APPRECIATE the fine craftsmanship. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.

Another fun thing I received today which wasnt a total surprise. This basket of handmade soaps. At our Relief Society meeting in December we did a white elephant exchange where we had to write down a service that we could do for someone else as our gift. Well, the gift that I received was that she would make me some handmade soaps. So, today this basket came filled with the most beautiful soaps I have ever seen. The colors are so vibrant and they smell heavenly. I almost couldnt believe that they were handmade. However, they are and Ila Reynolds I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am so happy to be the recipient of such a beautiful gift.

I had to take a picture of a few of my favorites close-up. Aren't they just beautiful?

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

Christmas Goodies

2009-12-20T18:00:00.000-08:00

There are many wonderful things about Christmas. One of them being the shared goodies between neighbors, friends & family. This is one goodie that we received and thoroughly enjoyed. Merry Christmas, hope you are enjoying this season of giving.

You can see where he gets it

2009-12-10T17:14:00.000-08:00

Just so you know Richard & Camdon are both color blind. Camdon is the most like his father of all our children. He is built like him & he is funny like him. He has Richard's middle name & he looks the most like him. Well, here is something else they both have in common. Neither one of them sees anything wrong with these outfit combinations. They are both plaid was their response. What's wrong with that?

Terrie Farnes - A classy Lady

2009-11-23T17:26:00.000-08:00

I am saddened to say that Terrie Farnes, one of the best people on earth has passed on to the other side. She was surrounded by loved ones as she left this earthly existence today. She is one of the most giving, caring, fun, classy ladies there ever was. She will be deeply missed. Love you Terrie!

HaPPy BirthDaY ToDD

2009-11-10T06:41:00.000-08:00

Today is my brother's birthday! He lives out of state & we don't get to see him a whole lot. But...... he will be coming for a visit in just 2 short days!!!! I am pretty stoked about seeing him & his sweet family.

Here is the goofball! He always been so good at making funny faces & talking with strange accents. He does an awesome scooby-doo impersonation!
Here is the cute family I mentioned.

Last Christmas when they were here. Todd & Laura took Jaron & Trevon hiking.

A recent vacation for him to the beach. Just love this picture. Oh and did I mention that I love him too! Happy Birthday Todd!

(P.S. - If you are my sibling & I didnt get a birthday post done for you. Please don't feel slighted. I just happened to have a few minutes this morning and really needed an update anyway. Love you all!)

TrUnk Or TrEaT

2009-10-31T08:23:00.000-07:00

Last night was our wards Halloween Party. We had a great time as always. It was a great turn out. Here is Camdon who dressed as a pirate. He was pretty fierce with his weapons. I think he had 4 swords and a gun. ScArEy!

I went as a clown & had so much fun with it. I won 1st place for Best Costume & also an award for 'Most Jolly'. I was pretty excited!
Trevon went as Tigger. He won 3rd place for Best Costume. He was probably the warmest one there. LOL

Richard came up with this all on his own. I thought it was very creative on his part. Not sure if you can see the knife that is stabbing the cereal box but he was a 'Cereal Killer'. Funny, eh?

Jaron was original as all get out.

He was a 'Sports Fan'

Uh-huh-ya that's what I said.

They had some really fun games for the kids to play.

Another fun game.

Tiffany & Randy were Little Red Riding Hood & the Big Bad Wolf dressed as grandma. They borrowed our costumes and so you can imagine that I was excited that they took 2nd place for Best Costume. (Oh-ya!)

The kids all sure enjoyed the candy. Look at this cute Irish baby!

After that party was over we took a car load of boys to a SpOOk aLLeY. Here we are getting ready to go in.

This wolf (who I happen to know) snuck up behind me just as I was coming out of the spook alley and scared me again. Guess he thought I needed to scream one more time. LOL - thanks Ryan! I thought Richard's camera skills here were stealthy.

HaPPy HaLLoween to all our Friends & Family. We are gearing up today for 2 Halloween parties today. Camdon is having one this afternoon with his friends. Jaron & Trevon are having one tonight with their friends. Pictures to come.

Pumpkin Carving

2009-10-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

We carved our pumpkins last night for Family Home Evenening. We had a great time doing it! I couldn't get a picture of Trevon with his eyes open so I had him just look down. lol He did a silly face on his pumpkin.

Camdon was very creative with his. He did a bumblebee with a spider in the upper left corner. It is hard to see how great it looks in this picture but you get the idea.
I knew Richard wouldn't carve a pumpkin but I hoped Jaron would. No such luck, he wasn't interested either so I got to do two. I went with a spider theme on mine.Here we are with our pumpkins.

Trevon being silly.

Cousins Weekend for the Girls

2009-10-21T16:53:00.000-07:00

This last weekend I had the pleasure of heading up to the happening town of Joseph City where my cousin Terrie lives. A big group of us girls got together to celebrate our love for her. Terrie has been battling cancer for several years. There have been up's & down's along the cancer road. She has recently been told that it has spread to areas of her body where it is uncurable. This saddens me deeply. She is such a loving mother, wife, friend, sister, daughter, cousin & so on. When I met Richard's extended family for the very first time she is the one I remember most. She was so friendly and gave me the biggest, warmest hug when I met her. I've never forgotten it. Here she is below with her daughter Malisa. Don't they look like they could be sisters?

Here is our big group that came for the celebration.
This is Auntie Kaye & her daughter Rachel.

Carrie & Tiffani put together a necklace that each of us made. We stamped Terries favorite scripture on it which is D&C 84:88 if you are interested in looking it up.

More work on the necklaces.

Aunt Teeny who is Terrie's mother. The party was at her house and she was gracious enough to let us all crash at her place.

Terrie & I have always had so many sililarities. We were remembering some of them. Years ago when we lived in ShowLow & were camping together she went in to town to our house to shower & do laundry. She discovered that we had the same shampoo & conditioner, same hairspray & same air freshner. Wierd, huh? Then she went to do laundry & we had the same detergent. At one point we both had denim couches that were the same. We bought our boys who are the same age the same shirt for school one year. Strange! A few years ago when visiting them for Thanksgiving I noticed that she had the same basket that I did kept in the same place on top of her refrigerator holding the same thing, lightbulbs. When helping her set the table that year we realized that her dinner napkins matched a tablecloth that I had at home. I know, wierd! Then another time when visiting them I walked up to her house & noticed that their front porch light matched the new one we had just purchased for our house. The list goes on & on. Terrie, I guess we should have been twins. Love ya and oh, I think you have great taste!

Terrie with her sweet husband Cary.

Another group shot before we headed home.

Terrie & Cary

Isn't she just the cutest little pregnant lady? This is Julie who is married to Terrie's brother Chuck.

Terrie with her daughter in law Kristie & grand daughter Haley.

I took Trevon with me so he could hang out with his cousins. These boys are all the same age. They are also named after their great grandpa "Warren Oliver Hardy"

Lance Warren

Trevon Oliver

Gabel Hardy

Silly boys!

Zale traveled home with us and she & Trevon had fun taking pictures of us in the car.

Trevon finishing his book.

Cute Zale, my niece.

The leaves were turning this beautiful golden yellow and I was happy that I got to see them.

Isn't it just breathtaking?

Oh and we stopped by ShowLow on our way up there to see my sister & her cute kids. Here is Kamrielle modeling her new winter gear. When she tried it all on at the store she told her mom, 'Don't I look like Aunt Marcy?'. You know I love that!!!!

Trevon playing with Carder.

Me loving on Carder. Sweet boy!

He is a monkey and sure keeps LoraLeigh busy.

Another great weekend to put in the memory bank.

Pinball anyone?

2009-10-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday Camdon was looking through the Guiness Book of World Records and decided that he wanted to try & get in it. This is the idea he came up with for this day anyway. It would be a homemade pinball machine built by the oldest & youngest person. So he contacted his grandpa Turley, they drew up a design & got to work on it. Here is the finished product. He is quite proud of it. He is so creative and just loves to do things that no one else has done. Thanks Grandpa Turley for being a willing participant in some of his crazy schemes.

20 yr. Reunion

2009-09-28T10:36:00.000-07:00

Saturday night we attended the 20 yr. class reunion for Richard. He was a Toro from Mt. View and proud of it! This is his good buddy Doug & his wife Kristen. They live on Maui, he is a podiatrist there. Richard really didn't want to go but since Doug was coming all the way from Hawaii, he convinced him to attend. It was a nice evening afterall. This is not the best picture (my eyes are closed) but it's the only one of us.

This was kindof fun. This guy lives in Austin, TX and knows my brother Todd really well. They play church ball together and he is a friend and patient of Todd's. We had to get a picture with him to send to Todd and say - Hey, look who we met.
High School reunions - ya, you know how that goes.

Skateland injury

2009-09-28T09:46:00.000-07:00

I took Camdon to Skateland Friday night. Alot of his friends were there, it was their school night at Skateland. He had a great time skating the night away. Just one little mishap. He got in a fight with a 6th grader who was there and ended up with this black eye. You should have seen the 6th grader!
Just kidding! That's the story he wanted me to tell anyway. In reality he looked away for just a minute and made contact with the wall. OUCH! It is really started to turn an ugly shade of purple, green, blue & black!

Choir Concert

2009-09-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Trevon has joined the boys choir in Jr. High again this year. It was a real treat to see them perform. He is a little shy up there but he sure enjoys it! Keep singing Trevon, we love it!!!

HaLLoWeeN has arrived at our house

2009-09-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

It may seem a little early for some but believe me I've held off as long as I could. Today was the day, I pulled out the halloween decor and it is all up.

This is always a happy day because it is a reminder to me that cooler temps are heading our way. When Jaron got home from school today he saw that Halloween was going up and his initial comment was "Oh great!" I ignored him & kept going.
He caught the spirit of fun. All of the kids were asking if they could have a Halloween party. Absolutely, I told them. I love parties and we are long over due for a fun one!

Don't you love this witch? She is one of my favorite pieces of Halloween decor. Gotta love the Orange Patch!

Come on, admit it. You really want to get your Halloween/Fall decor out too!