England Family

New Years Eve '12

2012-02-18T13:41:00.000-08:00

We got to spend a fun night at the Bennett's for New Years Eve. Corbin was working so I was planning on just staying home with the kids. This was much more fun. Food, friends and fireworks!

T.V. Trays

2012-02-16T13:47:00.000-08:00

My brother, sister and I had those cheap aluminum TV trays when we were growing up and we loved them! It was such a treat to get to eat our kid cuisines on them on Friday nights and watch movies. I bought our kids some of their own, only these are a updated version. I never had a drink holder!

Bowling

2012-02-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

Corbin had a few days off after Christmas so we went bowling one night. It was crowded and there was no food, snacks or drinks. I was glad my kids got to throw the ball a few times, but we were glad to leave!

Christmas Day: Part 2

2012-02-13T13:12:00.000-08:00

This is how the day ended and it was probably one of my favorite parts. These two took a bath together, like cousins do, and then relaxed with chocolate popcorn and a movie:

Parker was practicing sitting up:

For some reason I was REALLY excited about this very hungry caterpillar:

I got blamed for Olivia not eating her dinner. I think this might have been the problem, we both have a sweet tooth!

Olivia got a Maxamus horse from the movie Tangled:

Carter got some walkie talkies, just like the ones he used on the way to Mexico a year ago:

These guys were the trash collectors, armed with their big black garbage bags:

Frying a delicious turkey, what a process:

Funny stocking stuffers:

My Grandma got a big TV from all of us and I love this look on her face, so sweet:

Christmas Morning '11: Part One

2012-02-12T09:12:00.000-08:00

We opened our gifts pretty early in the morning. Got ready and then headed to my parents. The kids seemed to enjoy everything they got!

Christmas Eve '11

2012-02-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

We started out the day by giving the kids their annual pajamas, before we headed out to Grandma Colleen's for dinner:
And in my true fashion, I did not get many pictures :(

Cousin's Lukas (who just woke up from a nap, nice hair!) and Paige:

Cutie Cousin Milo:

The annual sister picture:

Jungle Jims with Papa

2012-02-03T21:02:00.000-08:00

So glad these kids have a Papa and an Aunt who make such an effort to be with them :)

Sittin' on Santa's Lap '11

2012-01-30T20:59:00.000-08:00

This was Parker's first year for sitting on Santa's lap! Glad none of the kids are shy and were willing to sit on his lap. Carter told Paige he doesn't see a reason to be scared of someone who brings you toys, I agree!

Rachel's Baptism Dec '11

2012-01-28T20:58:00.000-08:00

These two have grown up together. Very cool to see them both going through these experiences together :)

Parker's first solids

2012-01-26T20:48:00.000-08:00

I thought this kid would love to eat solids. He LOVES to nurse so I thought he would dive right into solids, wrong! He did not like them at first and for about a month it was kind of a pain to try and feed him because he did not seem to care. But lately he has been opening for them and seems to like them much better. The older kids have gotten into feeding him too, which I did not expect.

Thanksgiving '11

2012-01-23T07:11:00.000-08:00

Our day started with Paige "helping" me make dessert. She loves to "spin" the ingredients. Later that day we headed up to Aunt Courtney's!

The food was delicious and Cousins Gage and Caleb agreed. They dug into their potatoes:

My sweet Parker boy, almost 4 months:

The cousins are inseparable:

Parker had a great time:

We also got to celebrate Cousin Milo's 2nd birthday:

Joy School

2011-12-07T19:02:00.000-08:00

I am doing a joy school preschool with some neighborhood friends for Paige. She really loves it. She came home dressed like an Indian for Thanksgiving and I thought it was so cute.
(she would not put the tinker toys down, so I gave up)

Second snowfall '11

2011-12-04T18:54:00.000-08:00

Second snowfall of the year. I usually do not keep track of the amount of times it snows, but this year has been pretty dry, thank goodness. Again, I got to be inside but Daddy was home to get in on this one:

Disney on Ice

2011-12-01T13:36:00.000-08:00

Seriously, a really fun day. Started the day out at Kneaders for breakfast, my favorite! Then off to Energy Solutions for Disney on Ice. The girls loved it!

Jungle Jims

2011-11-28T13:32:00.000-08:00

We were lucky enough to have my Mom take a week of in November so we could spend some time extra time with her. We decided to take the kids to Jungle Jims. I like it because it is the right size the kids can kind of wander from ride to ride and not get too far from me. They can ride every ride as many times as they want. I get sick on rides so my sister is the lucky one who gets to go with them.

Carter and my Mom playing air hockey. Carter won, but I hear the story is he cheated. Shocking! I am going to blame it on him being 7, boys are a different breed when they are 7.

Paige adores Livi. I love the way she is looking at her:

Even though the quarters ran out, Livi did not care:

Auntie Keri and Parks:

First Snow of '11

2011-11-24T13:30:00.000-08:00

I happily watched from inside :)

Halloween

2011-11-20T13:15:00.000-08:00

A Witch, Tigger and Darth Vader. I stayed home with Parks this year while Corbin took the older two out trick or treating. Paige ended early to come home and pass out candy, but Corbin and Carter took their time to get as much candy as they could!

Pumpkin Carving

2011-11-18T13:24:00.000-08:00

Every year my Mom is so gracious to host pumpkin carving for the family. I hate the mess! This year I suggested doing kits with different face pieces that you can just stick in the pumpkins and reuse every year. Genius! The kids did not lose interest as they usually do with the carving.

My Mom also had washable paints which the girls loved. Livi mostly painted her hands, which when you are not the Mom is hilarious:

These guys got a little creative with the paint:

Scarecrow Festival

2011-11-14T13:39:00.000-08:00

This year they moved the Scarecrow Festival to the West Ridge Academy behind my house instead of having it at Thanksgiving Point. They had the ever so popular bungee tramps my kids love:

And free games with tons of prizes or as I call them, JUNK. But, the kids love it so I happily go along :)

Paige's First Trip to the Dentist

2011-11-02T19:22:00.000-07:00

I spent several months talking to Paige about what was going to happen at the dentist. She is a bit young for a cleaning, but I knew she could handle it. The dentist was thinking she would just want to ride up and down in the chair, but she proved them wrong. She watched a movie and earned a princess wand at the end, so she was happy!

The kids also got fake teeth, which are so gross and may have made it into the garbage by accident, oops.

Rub-a-Dub-Dub

2011-10-31T19:15:00.000-07:00

This girl could stay in the tub for hours. Sometimes I put her in there while I am cleaning and it gives me a good hour to get things done. :-)

Smiles!

2011-10-26T19:13:00.000-07:00

Parker started smiling about 7 weeks. So cute :)

Football '11

2011-10-23T19:03:00.000-07:00

It is looking like Carter is loving football this year. This scares me because this is the last year for flag, the "safest" form of football. Next year, tackle. I do not like the idea of him playing tackle football, but I do not think I get a say.

Corbin is coaching him this year. It is actually funny to listen to them talk about plays and practice together:

We also love having this visitor at the games:

Bath at Grandma Colleen's

2011-10-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

Recently we had Sunday dinner at Grandma England's house. The kids like to take that opportunity to take a bath together. I guess it is a cousin thing because I remember doing it when I was little. Milo, Paige and Lukas:

My 31st Birthday

2011-10-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

My parent's went all out for my birthday this year. We went to a park for lunch. My Dad grilled the most awesome fillet mignon and chicken I have ever eaten, at a park!

Then beyond the decorations, my Mom took the time to fill a ton of water balloons so we could all have a water balloon fight. I stayed out of it for the most part by taking pictures, but leave it to my sister to cheap shot me in the back!

Parker enjoyed the BBQ in his own way:

I am so glad these two Cousins have each other:

What is a trip to the park without some ring a round the rosies?

And this little girl is my BUDDY!

Another highlight, a dozen gourmet donuts from Beyond Glazed! Delicious!

To the best parents ever, THANKS for making me feel special!!

Football Spectators

2011-10-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

My parents and Great Grandma Colleen came to watch Carter play football. Parker found it pretty relaxing:

And Paige found a swinging buddy in Papa:

Preschool for Paige!

2011-10-10T13:35:00.000-07:00

Paige started preschool this year and she was READY! She would have gone when she was two if she could of, she is just so independent. When I walked her to school the first day she told me not to walk her to the front door because she is "big". I am really glad she likes preschool so much :-)

Labor Day '11

2011-10-08T13:29:00.000-07:00

We headed up to the zoo for Labor Day this year. The kids were all pretty grumpy that day so it wasn't a long visit. I am glad they got to see the animals and that I got another zoo trip out of the way, ha ha :)

Silver Lake

2011-10-07T13:07:00.000-07:00

A few weeks after Parker was born we decided to get out of the house, so we headed up to Silver Lake. It is close enough it isn't an all day event and the trail is easy. It might be fun to take a picnic up next time and try some fishing.

Parker spent most of his time sleeping in my awesome sling:

Second Grade!

2011-10-03T13:19:00.000-07:00

Carter was really ready to start school this year (even though he won't admit it). I did see a few signs of nerves the night before and the morning of. We missed back to school night because Carter was sick, so he didn't get to meet his teacher in advance or see where his class was. The morning of he was nervous about not knowing where to line up or if we would find his teacher. We walked to school that morning and when we got there we found where he was suppose to go right away so that helped. When he lined up he just kept looking forward waiting for his teacher. I kept trying to talk to him and it was like he couldn't hear me. He was just so focused on the doors waiting for his teacher. Finally she came out and took the kids in. When he came home he said, "school sucks" but I can tell he really likes it. All of his work is coming home, done really well and he seems happy. I think it is just cool to not "like" school or at least not admit you do :)

Carter "focused" in line:

Parker - two months

2011-09-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

This little guy is two months old already. He has gained four pounds and is as sweet as can be. Balancing three is a new world, but we love him so much!

First Family Pics

2011-09-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

I like the way they turned out, but I am glad to only have to do pictures once a year. I do not know why they stress me out so bad, but I do not enjoy getting them done. I do like having them though so it is worth it.

First bath

2011-09-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

Parker seemed to enjoy his first bath :)

He is here!

2011-08-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

Parker Preston was born August 2nd, at 2:45pm. He weighed in at 7lbs 5oz and was 19 1/2 inches long. Carter and Paige could not be more in love. This labor was my most calm so far, until the last hour. I did not have any medication like with the last two, but I forgot how intense it can get towards the end. I guess I needed to forget or I would NOT have done it again! So far we have had a little acid reflux, but no jaundice like the other two kids. The hospital stay was not as relaxing as I remember either. I wanted to go home early, but they made us stay to keep an eye on Parker's jaundice since we do have a history with it. So far this kid seems mild mannered and content, hope he keeps it up!

Slip n' Slide

2011-08-04T16:58:00.000-07:00

Grandma Colleen bought the kids each a gift in honor of our baby coming. Carter got a slip n' slide and we have made good use of it.

Carter gets "cold" easily so he spends a lot of time on the hot cement to dry off:

Draper Days

2011-08-02T16:47:00.000-07:00

Corbin has worked a couple of Parades this year passing out candy. We have joined him at a few, but this time Carter got to ride in the car with him and pass out candy. From what I hear, he mostly just pushed the siren the whole time:

Paige was the only kid in our main area and there was so much candy and popcicles she could not hardly keep up!

Mama and Paige:

And my insane Dad who just had hip surgery 10 days earlier braved the parade and Draper Days too!

After the parade we headed over to Draper Days. It was hot, but the kids found a way to cool off. They had the huge plastic balls that the kids floated around in. I hadn't seen anything like this before so I thought it was hilarious! Carter spending some time relaxing:

Next it was on to the horses. Carter felt like he was a little too old to be riding "ponies" but I showed him they had one his size for a reason. This will be his last year for sure riding them though:

Livi was a little unsure about the whole thing:

Paige was in her element of course:

Snowbird!!

2011-07-31T16:29:00.000-07:00

We decided not to take any sort of "vacation" this summer with me being due soon, so we took the kids for one last "trip" to snowbird. We have been there for the day before to do their summer activities a few years ago, but this time we stayed longer to get the most out of it. It was so much fun and there is a TON to do. Here we are at the top of the tram. There is still a ton of snow! (not the most flattering pic of me being 9 months pregnant, but oh well)

Here we are right in the heart of Snowbird. Love the trees and it was not too hot:

Paige enjoyed throwing snowballs in July:

They had a ropes course, which was pretty high up and both kids dared to do it. Paige was strapped to Corbin, so it took a little maneuvering on his part:

They have a mechanical bull:

The most popular with Carter the alpine slide:

These weird jumpy things the adults didn't understand but the kids liked:

Rockwall:

Bouncy houses:

And the main reason I wanted to go, the bungy tramps! It is so funny to watch the kids to tricks on them. Carter didn't want to flip, but Paige did!

After watching the kids go on the tramps a few times, Corbin tried it out:

Seven Peaks

2011-07-29T16:26:00.000-07:00

I ended up getting the kids and I passes to Seven Peaks this summer. We have been several times and it has been a blast. Recently Corbin took a day of work to go with us. He does not love crowds so I usually do stuff like this while he is at work. This trip though, he was like a little kid. He was going on all the rides and slides. Paige is a little daredevil too and joined him on most of the slides.

Carter has really gotten used to the water this year. There is still a little fear there, but jumping off of things like this last year would not have happened!

Paige totally got worn out and took a nap in the middle of all the action:

New Glasses

2011-07-28T16:20:00.000-07:00

We also discovered Carter needed glasses this summer. Luckily he is really loving having them. I was a little worried about how he would feel about it and how he would take care of them. There is a special Batman case he wants me to buy him but I told him he has to show me he is going to take care of his glasses and actually wear them, so far he is holding up his end of the bargain:

Bowling

2011-07-27T16:17:00.000-07:00

We have only gone bowling once this summer. There is a program where kids bowl free this summer so I thought we would go more to kill some time. The kids like to go bowling, but seem to get bored after one game. This time we took Livi with us so it kept their attention a little longer:

Four Wheeler

2011-07-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

I just think it is funny that Paige will not ride her little four wheeler any more she will only ride the one she is too small for:

Zoo

2011-07-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

Paige waited the entire Zoo trip to ride the train and this picture tells me she was not disappointed!

Anytime there is something to climb on or sit on the kids take advantage:

Fourth of July

2011-07-21T16:09:00.000-07:00

In the morning we went to the annual West Jordan parade. They changed the route this year, which we were unaware of so it was a little bit of chaos to find a seat. Once we were settled the kids had a good time. Not a lot of candy to be had, but I am ok with that.

Later that night we went over to the Hyte's for their annual fourth of July BBQ. Always a ton of food and fireworks, and a rare time to get Corbin smiling in a picture!

Carter wished he could be the one lighting the fireworks, but Paige just seemed to really enjoy them:

Paige and her friend Anna raided Emily's dress up box and watched the fireworks in style, fairy wings and all:

Closing Ceremonies 2011

2011-07-10T01:10:00.000-07:00

This season of baseball is over. At the end of the season the league puts on a whole program including handing out trophies. We are not sure if Carter really fully enjoyed playing baseball, but overall it was a good experience. He did make some friends and had some highlights out of the field. I guess we will wait and see if he decides to play again next year. Now onto flag football in the fall!

Little Miss Green Thumb

2011-07-08T01:03:00.000-07:00

Paige is very helpful in the yard. She loves to water the garden and pull weeds.

We found another use for our little pool too. She likes to fill her bucket in there instead of with the hose. Anything to keep her busy!

Baby Robin's

2011-07-06T06:55:00.000-07:00

Our Robin's came back this year. They never use the same tree twice so I didn't think they would find another place in our yard this year, but they did. At first it is fun to see them progress and eventually watch their Mom kick them out of the nest. For a few days after they were kicked out of the nest they just learned to fly all around our backyard. After a while though we started to not appreciate what they leave behind, if you know what I mean. One day I saw Corbin in the backyard with the kids and a BB Gun, that is all I am going to say. I don't know if he ended up getting one and I don't want to know. I am hoping for their sake they don't find a home in our yard next year!

Outdoor Fun

2011-07-01T06:57:00.000-07:00

With the first signs of summer finally here, we headed over to the Hyte's to enjoy some s'mores. Love this time of year!

Carter's last day of First Grade

2011-06-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

Carter had a really great first grade year. He learned a ton and really liked his teacher. Aside from the typical "think times" he gets in the first few weeks, he made some new friends and liked going. On the last day he got to have a pizza party and play games. Paige and I went in early to take some pictures and they let her join in on the fun:

Carter and Mrs. Frazier:

Coyote Pride

2011-06-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

Carter received his Coyote Pride award again this year! The kids work hard all year to meet all the goals set for their grade. They have a little assembly to honor the kids who met the goal. He was pretty proud and not too cool to pose for a picture with his sister:

He was done getting his picture taken, can you tell?

Memorial Day

2011-06-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

There were not many options for activities on Memorial Day because the weather wasn't that great so we decided to go swimming indoors. Carter was in St. George with Grandma and Grandpa England so we just needed to entertain Paige and Olivia. Paige could swim all day everyday!

Lukas' 3rd Birthday

2011-06-12T06:46:00.000-07:00

Lukas turned three this past month so we went up to Aunt Courtney's to celebrate. It was a Toy Story themed party. Lukas did not dig being blindfolded for one of the games, but he did let his Mom cover his eyes after seeing a few kids with the blindfold:

Paige enjoyed the games,

And the four wheeler Lukas got. We all went outside to show him his big gift and Paige sure helped herself right in with him. She might have liked the toy more than him!

Brookie's 7th Birthday

2011-06-10T06:43:00.000-07:00

Cousin Brooke turned 7 recently, so we made the trip up to the Layton Boondocks where the party was held. I didn't tell Corbin where we were going because he wouldn't have gotten off work early to come help me. When we pulled into the parking lot he knew he had been duped! (crowds are not his thing) I didn't actually get any pictures of Brooke by mistake, but I got pictures of Cousin Milo having fun climbing on every game he shouldn't have been climbing on:

Paige and Lukas had fun hanging out together on the rides and bowling:

Carter was there also, but too busy to get any pictures taken :(

Helper

2011-06-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

Yet another project that had to get done before the baby comes. We painted a dresser to go down in Carter's room. It was more involved than I anticipated, but it actually turned out cute. Carter got in on the sanding for about 30 seconds, just enough for me to snap these pictures. This dresser is one that Corbin had growing up so Carter thought that was pretty cool. Carter's favorite color is black, so that is what we went with.

Great Grandma Colleen's Birthday

2011-06-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

My Aunt Sheri (on the right) came in from California to spend Mother's Day/Birthday with my Grandma. All the girls went to lunches, a movie and came back to my house for a BBQ. It was really great to see her and fun to get everyone together. (Left-Right: Aunt Karen, Great Grandma Colleen, My Mom Vicki, Paige and Aunt Sheri)

Carter was sure happy when my little brother showed up. He asked me if it was for real?

Mama and Paige:

Great Grandma Colleen pretending to blow out her candles since my camera is slow and missed the first go around:

Happy Birthday Grandma, We Love You!

Basement

2011-05-31T08:06:00.000-07:00

With another baby on the way, due in Aug, we have had an unbelievable amount of work to do to prepare. It has included moving kids into different rooms, tearing up hard wood floors, laying carpet and painting just to name a few things. Here are pictures of the first step, painting Carter's new room in the basement, tearing up the floors (which Paige did in a dress and loved it) and tearing up baseboards:

Easter '11

2011-05-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

Easter is another one of those whirlwind weekends. We try to get to see both sides of the family and we always try to make an Easter egg hunt with our good friends the Taylor's. I doubt the kids get as worn out as we do, but it's worth it. This year the Easter Egg hunt with the Taylor's started 8am. The kids get so much candy and then after they get to go to a prize store and have cinnamon rolls and orange juice. Such a fun time:

The next morning was Easter and they kids got to find their basket's the bunny hid in the house:

Next it was off to Mama and Papa's house for and plastic Easter egg hunt and the dying of Easter eggs.

We never know how dying the Easter eggs is going to go. Some years the kids love and it and dye dozens and dozens. Some years they could care less. This year it was a hit. Olivia, who is just over one really liked dying the eggs.

Another miracle was Daddy got in on the egg dying. He is not much a crafter so I am sure the kids liked it.

We then went to Grandma Colleen's for an Easter Egg hunt and a BBQ but I didn't get any dang pictures. Next year for sure!

Flying High

2011-05-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

Paige always begs to fly her kite. There are very few days where the conditions are right. So finally the day came and she loved it!

Another tooth gone...

2011-05-23T08:26:00.000-07:00

Sheesh, looks like the tooth fairy got a raise :)

Zoo Spring 2011

2011-05-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

We went to the zoo early this spring. Even though it should have been warm, it wasn't. It was pretty cold and miserable and you will see in the last picture how Paige handled it, she was cuddled up in Olivia's stroller with a blanket over her and that is where she stayed most of the time.

Baseball Spring '11

2011-05-19T08:16:00.000-07:00

This season has had it's highs and lows. Most of the games scheduled so far have been canceled. In one of Carter's first practices he got hit in the face and had a black eye for two weeks. That incident made him really scared to be up in the batters box waiting for a ball to come at him. However, a training session with his Papa Kevin really was the cure. Carter has gained some of his confidence back at home plate and the game seems to be a lot more fun for him. One of the games he did so well, he got the game ball!

Living Planet Aquarium

2011-05-17T20:19:00.000-07:00

We recently went to the Living Planet Aquarium with cousin Livi and Papa Kevin. Got a chance to see the penguins, but they didn't do much. I was hoping we would get to see them swim. Even though Paige was yelling at them to swim, they didn't obey:)

Paige was really brave to touch the Manta Rays. Carter never would, it is very funny to see the difference between the two kids:

Paige's 3rd Birthday

2011-05-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

Paige got a new bike:

Per her request, a rainbow cake:
Some help opening presents, which was hilarious to watch. Livi really enjoyed the gifts too! Paige didn't quite know how to react, I think her face says it all. Paige is looking at someone for help get her cousin off her gifts:

I didn't get pictures of hardly anyone that was there except Paige, but someone took this picture for me of my Mom, Dad and Niece Livi and I am glad to have it!

Happy Birthday Paigey!

2011-03-31T19:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Piggy! Glad you got to end the day doing your favorite thing, swinging! Love you :)

Disney on Ice

2011-03-17T11:57:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we took Paige and Olivia to Disney on Ice. They of course loved it!
Yes, this is a tiara Olivia wore, so cute!
Olivia loved the show so much, screaming, clapping and dancing half way through she wore herself out:
Paige and Mama:

It's no secret...

2011-03-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

I was against Carter getting a DS. I wanted to wait a year or two. But, when he and Paige sit like this for 20 min, it is actually worth it. Until recently there is not too much they do together, so it is nice to see.
I also enjoy when they stop fighting long enough to watch movies together like this:

Valentine's Day '11

2011-03-03T13:56:00.000-08:00

The kids actually remembered the bags I made them for Valentines last year, so they were really excited to open them. Carter doesn't care much for candy, so it is a little more challenging to get him things:
Paige on the other hand LOVES candy so she is easy to buy for: (this shot is mid bite, oops)

Classic

2011-03-01T13:49:00.000-08:00

We recently also got to go to classic with my Dad and Aunt Keri. Paige is lucky she has and Aunt that will take her down the slides...
(Don't be mad I posted this picture Keri, it is just too cute!)

Discovery Gateway

2011-02-28T13:41:00.000-08:00

We got to have a fun day with Aunt Courtney, Cousin's Lukas and Milo recently. I haven't felt well this winter so it was nice to be able to take Paige to do something fun. She had a blast and keeps saying she wants to go back to the "ball place":
Cousin Milo:
Paige and Cousin Lukas:

Tooth Fairy!

2011-02-27T13:36:00.000-08:00

Looks like he lost a tooth, right? No, the tooth on his left slid over and left a giant gap making it look that way. So gross. It has been loose for months but he would not let us pull it. Corbin tried several times. The tooth started to turn gray and I got so sick of looking at it....
so I pinned him down and Thank Goodness, it came out!!! (he also got a haircut, finally)

Then the next day I pulled the other one out. He looks so grown up.

Olivia Turns One!

2011-02-25T14:34:00.000-08:00

Cousin Olivia turned 1! She did not enjoy her cake but she really enjoyed opening her gifts and was interested in every single one!
Her Grandma Joan made her birthday hat and she actually kept it on for a little bit:
Great Grandma Colleen, Olivia, Keri and Dane:
Paige in her birthday hat:

7th Birthday Cont'd

2011-02-24T14:25:00.000-08:00

Carter also got to celebrate at Corbin's parents with his side of the family:

And at my parent's where he got a new bike:
And some more brownies:
He also got to go to Chilli's for dinner, his choice:

Carter's 7th Birthday

2011-02-22T13:52:00.000-08:00

We had Carter open his gifts after school. This is what he looked like when he walked in:
Paige took over his birthday crown he got from school:
Carter does not like cake (he is not my kid!) so I made him his favorite brownies:
We told him he could not have a DS until he was 8, but his Dad over ruled me and he got one:
I hope you had a good day buddy!

Carter's Surgery

2011-02-20T13:46:00.000-08:00

A few days after Christmas Carter had to have two hernia's repaired. He was really brave. He and I had many talks about what was going to take place. I prepared him well for going into the surgery, but I didn't spend much time on what would happen right when he come out of surgery, particularly the pain. When he came out they only let me back to be with him. He was crying really hard and only half awake. They gave him some morphine and he settled down a little but was still in some pain. They gave him another dose of morphine and he started to do much better. I feel like if he would have known better what to expect it may have gone a little smoother. Here he is before the surgery:
A little neighbor boy of ours had the same surgery done recently and told Carter he would be able to play video games while he waited for his surgery so that is what we heard most about in the days before his surgery:

This is Carter in recovery after the morphine kicked in. It took him a few hours to believe that he was going to feel better and the look on his face did get better:
This is what Carter wanted to do more than anything. He wanted to be wheeled out in a wheel chair. It sure cheered him up:

Christmas Day

2011-02-18T13:40:00.000-08:00

We always spend Christmas Day at my parent's house. Everyone always says they are going to go easy on gifts every year, but as you will see that never happens. It was so much fun because this year was Cousin Livi's first Christmas. Everyone just enjoyed watching her. Livi and Papa:
My Mom, Great Grandma Colleen and Paigey:
Keri, Dane and Livi:
Carter and his new guitar:
Livi in the middle of all the gifts:
Paige playing with Livi's drum. She carried it around all day, guess I should have gotten her one:

Christmas Morning '10

2011-02-17T13:33:00.000-08:00

The kids had a blast Christmas morning as usual! They are both at an age where it is fun to watch them open their gifts. They are both wearing the jammies I made them:

Christmas Eve '10

2011-02-04T13:26:00.000-08:00

We spend Christmas Eve every year at Corbin's parents. Here are some of the kids opening the jammies I made them:
Paige got a doll, among many other things that she loves:
Grandma Colleen liked the perfume we got her:
She is just cute:
These two cousins cannot be separated:

Santa

2011-02-01T13:21:00.000-08:00

The kids had two chances to sit on Santa's lap this year. Even though Carter doesn't look like he likes it, he does. He always whispers in Santa's ear what he wants because he knows it's something I do not want him to have. I told him that Santa approves what he is giving with the parents first, so his plan won't work.

Basketball 2010-2011

2011-01-30T13:18:00.000-08:00

Carter is playing basketball again this year. He is really loving it. He has not made a basket other than in practice so I am hoping it happens for him during his last two games! Wish him luck....

Mexico!

2011-01-27T12:42:00.000-08:00

One might ask if driving 1906 miles round trip for a vacation in Mexico was worth it? YES! It was a blast and a trip my kids will never forget. We were lucky enough to be invited down to spend Thanksgiving at my sister's in laws home in Puerto Penasco, Mexico. The kids did great in the car which was my main worry, so that was a huge relief. Paige played a ton of games:
Carter and my parents who were in a separate car each had walkie-talkies. That passed so much time for Carter. He loved talking to my Dad in police 10-code. He still talks about it.
We were lucky enough to see this cute face everyday, my sweet niece Olivia:
We played beach volleyball:
Ate at a restaurant I am still dreaming about, Chuy's:
Made one of my Mom's dream's for her Grand kids come true, ride horses on the beach:

Played in the sand:

Carter's favorite part was collecting seashells. We came home with two huge bags full:
Seriously a fun trip:

Holy Snow!

2010-12-09T18:29:00.000-08:00

Two days before we left for Mexico, this is what we woke up to. It was fun because we were leaving but not fun to shovel, which is what Corbin had to do because our snow blower could not handle it.
Of course the kids loved it. Early on that Sunday morning they were decked out in their snow gear ready to play:
As expected Paige has no fear when it comes to the snow, so she was out there playing hard too:
We took the kids sledding for just a bit:

Early Riser

2010-11-18T12:22:00.000-08:00

Carter gets up early, way early. Most of the time it is really hard for me, but this morning Paige and I came down to a sweet note and treat from Carter. I got a can of diet Pepsi and Paige got some cheese. So cute that he thought of us.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-09T19:58:00.000-08:00

Halloween was pretty wet and cold. Pretty miserable for the parents, but it did not stop our Lady Bug! She was bouncing from house to house like it was summer outside. I love the umbrella!
Olivia came with us for a few houses, but poor thing was freezing so she went home.

Our cute little pumpkin:
Lady Bug, Pumpkin and Army Guy:
Army Guy:
Lady Bug:

Bowling!

2010-11-07T19:53:00.000-08:00

My Mom took the kids bowling! They had not been in awhile so it was a whole new thing for Paige. Of course she had to hold the 8 lb. ball herself which was a sight. A few times her ball stopped in the middle of the lane, until we got smart and put the bumpers up and used a ramp. Carter was pretty bummed that Paige beat him, but in the end it was a fun day :)

Before bowling we went to Chuck E Cheese since they are right next to each other. Olivia had her first ride with her Dad on a four wheel truck. I don't think she new what to think of it...

Arcade!

2010-11-05T19:49:00.000-07:00

Grandma Colleen took the kids and I out for dinner and to play games at the arcade. The kids loved it. They spent two hours playing games and came away completely sweaty. I think that means a lot of fun was had =)
Cousin Gibson was so nice to play games with Paige, even though she had to sit on a stool to play this one:
Carter and Gibson loved this Wheel of Fortune game, it gave them a lot of tickets:
The boys got soooo sweaty playing basketball. It was hilarious to watch:

Off to see the Witches!

2010-11-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

Love, Love, Love Gardener Village. Another tradition I love. The kids love seeing the witches and getting a treat at the bakery. Love Fall!

Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

Annual trip to the pumpkin patch. We all look forward to it because it means fall is officially here. Paige and Carter talk about the pumpkin patch every time we drive by it all year. They look every time to see if the pumpkins are orange yet. I like to have this as one of our family's traditions!

Some typical fall things...

2010-10-30T19:24:00.000-07:00

We visited Wheeler Farm with our friend Keller:
Picked pumpkins:
Went through a hay maze with Cousin Lukas:
And carved pumpkins with Mama and Papa:

(Paige was safe while I was carving I promise. She sat there just for this picture)

Swaddling

2010-10-07T20:22:00.000-07:00

Everywhere we turn in the house dolls are swaddled in something whether it be a blanket or a dishtowel, they are always wrapped up. I wonder who is responsible?

Birthday's

2010-10-05T20:11:00.000-07:00

We recently celebrated my Brother and BIL birthdays at my parents house. Always fun to get together. Carter and my Brother Chris:
Carter and Uncle Dane:
Mama and Paige:
Great Grandma Colleen:
Olivia's first taste of frosting courtesy of me:
Papa and Olivia:

How many things do you do in a tutu?

2010-10-03T19:59:00.000-07:00

Daddy's boy

2010-10-01T20:06:00.000-07:00

Quite often Corbin will leave Carter some kind of treat or message right where he sits to eat breakfast, so when he comes down in the morning it is the first thing he sees. This time it was a reward for his unsolicited help in the garage. I just thought it was cute Carter has such a cool Dad I wanted to record it.

Girls Day Out

2010-09-29T19:57:00.000-07:00

Paige recently got to have a girls day out with her Grandma Colleen. We all went to the mall and she got a new outfit and some really cute new pink boots. While the boys were off at a Utah football game, we went shopping!

What a difference a year makes....

2010-09-28T20:02:00.000-07:00

Flag Football

2010-09-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

Carter started flag football this year. Much to my surprise he is really loving it. He got some special football gloves from his Papa Kevin and has had many visitors come watch him. I am just glad it is not tackle football, I am nervous for those days :)

Our little artist

2010-09-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

Paige loves to draw. This is something new for us around here because drawing is something that never held Carter's attention. Paige is very precise and gets really into it. She calls it "doing homework". She follows her brother's example when he gets home from school and does his homework.
Here are some pictures of her potato bug:

Pretty good for two and a half!

St. George Aug 2010

2010-09-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

We spent a lot of time swimming,

Paige played with Grandma Colleen's hair every time she could. Grandma could never eat a meal alone. Paige made a new friend for sure,
There was also a trip to Vegas. Not my favorite part but the kids enjoyed M &M world,
And Coke world,
Carter also got to visit with a Parrot on the strip:

Spruces

2010-09-11T20:18:00.000-07:00

We headed up the canyon for Uncle Brady and Aunt Chelsea's birthdays. We have not been in the canyon much so it was fun to get up there. Aunt Courtney made them some cupcakes:
Happy Cousin Milo:
Paige and Lukas:
Carter and Gibson:
They new twins, Gage and Caleb:

Paige and Cousin Lukas

2010-09-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

These two are only a few months apart. It is cute to watch them going through the same stages together. Hopefully they will be great friends!

Slip and Slide

2010-09-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

The kids love the slip 'n slide, especially Paige. She will dive right in and get soaked. Carter is ok to slide on his knees but he doesn't like to get very wet.
Air Guitar:
Cuddled up after all the fun:

Teamwork

2010-09-03T20:09:00.000-07:00

Love when the kids help me wash the car. It really does help and they are funny to watch!