The Miller/Brannan Bunch

Summer fun!!!! 7/11

2011-10-22T09:10:00.000-07:00

We went to the pool...the big bucket pool. Jacob had fun with his cousins.
Nathan went in the water for 10 minutes.

Brothers who play together... 7/11

2011-10-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

Love these two boys.... They just love to play together.

Celebrating Ari's Birthday June 2011

2011-08-31T13:00:00.002-07:00

We celebrated Ari's 13th Birthday at Red Robin's on Saturday and had cake and ice cream on Sunday before she left to girl's camp. Can't believe she is 13 already. We love that girl!

June 2011

2011-08-31T13:00:00.001-07:00

June 2011

2011-08-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Mommy time June 2011

2011-06-10T21:22:00.000-07:00

Me enjoying baby Nathan.

Slip and slide fun! June 2011

2011-06-10T20:57:00.000-07:00

Chris for his birthday got a camera, bike and a slip and slide. Need I say more...

Nathan 5 weeks old June 2011

2011-06-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

Nathan at 5 weeks. He is getting so chunky. We love it! He may even have some red hair. We will just have to wait and see.

Smores and Bonfire June 2011

2011-06-10T20:19:00.000-07:00

The girls at Chris's office told us about a spot to have a camp fire by the river. So a bunch of us went to this secret spot. It was a small hike but it was really fun. Jacob finally got his first smore he was so excited. We roasted marshmellows and visited. There was even a 7-up party at the cars because it was forgotten before the hike. It was also nice and cool, a nice break from the heat. Nathan even ended up sleeping 91/2 hrs that night but it was a one time thing unfortunately.

Our Lumiere...Jacob June 2011

2011-06-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

Jacob is our little movie quoter. He makes quotes and says," mommy what is that from?"
When Blake was in Beauty and the Beast Jacob went to one show. Lumiere had flames on his hands and he would hold them up like a candle. The other day Jacob puts up his hands up and says, "I'm Lumiere." So cute. We were laughing so hard. The play was months ago and he has never said that before.

Birthday Boy!!!! May 30th 2011

2011-06-10T19:56:00.000-07:00

Chris's 52nd Birthday. I made him German chocolate cake we celebrated at Bob and Danya's. We also had strawberry frozen dessert made by Danya. ...yummy!!!

Memorial Day Fun May 30, 2011

2011-06-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

Memorial day was a blast we spent it with Bob and Danya and Danya's Aunt's. We went to the pool at Danya's housing complex. We all made a potluck of food. We had drumsticks and ribs yummy. We had alot of food and ate it for dinner as well. After the pool we went to the house to celebrate Chris's birthday.

Dan's Birthday May 2011

2011-06-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

We had a fun time celebrating with Dan and Katie Jo and family. Katie made Dan an amazing quilt.

Nathan 4 weeks old May 2011

2011-06-10T09:58:00.000-07:00

Nathan 4 weeks old. I am try at doing some photography. Oh well. I love his feet and he looked so cute in this outfit.

First Bath May 2011

2011-06-10T09:31:00.000-07:00

Nathan had to wait 2 weeks for his first bath. First week umbilical cord. Second week circumcision. We had to wait for him to be all healed up. He loved it until he was out of the water then he was cold poor thing.

Jennifer's Baptism May 2011

2011-06-09T21:26:00.000-07:00

A girl who works with Chris was baptised. Below is a picture of everyone who works in the office. It was a very cool experience. My parents came with us to share in the experience. The spirit was so strong. Ari made lemon bars and brownies...yum...yum!

Zoo Fun May 2011

2011-06-09T20:49:00.000-07:00

While mom and dad were here we went to the zoo. Only those who weren't in school that is. The best part was the peacock who opened up his tail. Very pretty.

Birthday Weekend May 28th

2011-06-09T20:02:00.000-07:00

Chris's Birthday weekend started Saturday the 28th. We went with Danya and her kids to see Kung Fu Panda 2. It was great! The kids dressed up in there karate outfits. I wish I would've gotten a picture. Blake made a cake for Chris. It wasn't his official birthday so he put old on the cake. That night Chris and I went to Buffalo Wings to watch UFC fights. Below is a picture of Chris's Birthday present a straight 8 bike. Jacob has a attached tandom like bike so he can ride with Chris. They look so cute riding together.

Makeover May 2011

2011-06-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

While the boys were at baseball. Ari and I had a fun makeover night. I did her make up and straightened her hair. We also had a little girl talk and just enjoyed being together. Nathan kept crying but finally went to sleep so we could finish the straightening. When the boys got home I was still straightening Ari's hair shocking...Well then Jacob wanted his hair done so we spiked it. He loved it.

Mother's Day May 9th 2011

2011-06-07T21:52:00.001-07:00

I loved Mother's Day this year. My mom was here in Arizona which was so awesome. I had so much fun having her here. I received some awesome gifts from kids and hubby. Alec gave me a tile that had a cool statement that reads "To the world you are a mother to our family you are the world". He also gave me a statue willowtree of a mother and son. It was awesome! Chris gave me a sweet card, flowers and a snow cone machine. A well loved thing here in Arizona. I also received bath salts from baby Nathan and a watermelon slicer fron Jacob. Cass gave me bath and body works stuff. Ari made me breakfast in bed. It was an awesome mother's day.

We gave mom a card and a spa present with a nice robe, hair wrap, etc... and a pedicure with me.
We also went and looked at make-up and just did fun girly stuff it was great!

As I reflect on my life I am so grateful for my mom and all she has taught me. Chris and my mom are my best friends. I am so grateful for that. I am so glad to have such a great example of how to be a mom and sacrifice for your kids. To make each child feel special and loved. To make each child know you would do anything for them. I am so glad to have someone to laugh with and cry with. Thanks so much mom for all you have done for me.

Mom and Dad also were able to spend there birthdays here. We had fun going to dinner and to Jesterz. Mom and dad were free because it was there birthdays. How cool is that!!!

Grandma and Grandpa visit May 8th 2011

2011-06-07T21:40:00.000-07:00

Grandma had to help Alec to the MTC so we had to wait for her and grandpa a week after Nathan was born. We were so excited for them to come visit again so soon. This is grandma's first time holding baby Nathan. We were looking at a picture of Chris as a baby. Nathan and Jacob both look like Chris in different ways. So cute!!!!

Father and son camp out May 2011

2011-06-07T17:13:00.000-07:00

Chris, Blake and Jacob went on the father son camp out. No smores...we got Jacob all excited and they didn't have any. We'll have to make it up to him. He did have fun in the dunebuggy though.

1 week old May 2011

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

Baby Nathan 1 week old already back to his birth weight of
8.3lbs. My friend Espy meeting Nathan for the first time.

Leaving to Utah May 2nd 2011

2011-06-07T16:44:00.000-07:00

Alec left May 2nd 2011 to Utah. Last time we will see him for 2 years.
He had a going away party with family May 3rd. He then reported to the MTC on May 4th. He received a ride from Grandma Paxman who was also his companion for 2 days. Since he was set apart before he left.

Alec being set apart as a missionary May 1st 2011

2011-06-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

I had just given birth to Nathan 3 days prior so the stake president agreed to have Alec set apart at our house. President Jones gave Alec an amazing blessing. I can't even describe the spirit was so strong. He is going to be an amazing missionary. They had Bob say a few things and Danya bear her testimony. After the blessing President Jones had us all knee down and had Chris give a family prayer. I was so grateful that we had it in our home it made it even more special for me. I appreciated the effort of everyone. I feel so blessed to have such a great family and friends.

April 30th Friends over

2011-06-03T12:15:00.000-07:00

Alec had some friends over and they played games like ultimate ninja. They had some good food and a good time. Danya and family came and I stayed up in my room with baby but I had some visitors which was nice. Chris took care of me the first week. Our ward was so great we had 4 days of meals to help us out. Mom couldn't come until Alec was going into the MTC May 4th. She was giving him a ride to the MTC. We also had many visitors and presents which was so nice. We really appreciated it.

Baby Nathan arrives April 28th 2011

2011-06-02T20:49:00.001-07:00

Nathan arrived just before Alec left on his mission. I really wanted Nathan to come before Alec left. It was awesome to have this picture of Alec holding baby Nathan. My heart took a picture as
well. It was such a special moment. We also had the girl's from Chris's office come by to see the baby as well. I don't have a picture but the Shappell's came by and brought us snickerdoodle cookies...yum yum. We stayed for only one day. It seemed so long. We had awesome nurses and it was a great experience except that I had back labor for 7 hours and all natural but it was worth it!!! Sweet little Nathan is now here. Love that baby.

Easter Fun April 2011

2011-06-02T20:14:00.000-07:00

We went to Bob and Danya's for Easter egg hunt and dinner. We had a fun time watching the kids find eggs. We had a new thing this year. The kids had some eggs with numbers in them. Each number received a prize. The coolest prize that adults and kids loved was the extra large plane. Chris and all the kids did not want to stop playing with the plane. If you changed the tail it did loops. We always have a great time hanging out with Bob and Danya and family!!!

Easter Baskets 2011

2011-06-02T16:29:00.000-07:00

When Chris and I got married we found out we have some similar traditions. One being the easter bunny hides the kids baskets. Alec had one too but he was in Utah visiting family so I don't have a picture with him with his basket.

Scout Triathalon April 2011

2011-06-02T16:16:00.000-07:00

Blake and Chris participated in a mini triathalon. Some weren't very excited about it but they did it! Good job to Chris and Blake. I was a bit nervous for Chris to go because I was three weeks from my due date. I had all the numbers to get a hold of Chris just in case.

One Acts April 2011

2011-06-02T15:20:00.000-07:00

Seniors at Perry High School compete in a competition called one acts. They direct a one act skit and choose fellow students to be in them and then they perform and the audience vote who wins. Blake was practicing this on my Birthday as shown in previous blog entry. The won as per first picture shown here. it was a cute and funny one act called the Breakfeast club. It was about zombies. Very funny. Blake was a zombie and danced to thriller. Below are a few pictures of him with friends and performing.

J'Nett's and Nate's Birthdays 2011

2011-05-23T18:06:00.000-07:00

My Birthday and Alec's farwell was an awesome combination. I didn't want my Birthday to take away from Alec's special day. It worked out great. Mom and Danya made me jello cake Yum! Nate's birthday was this week so we celebrated his Birthday and made him blow out candles too!

It was too windy outside so we had to go inside to blow out the candles.

What is going on outside? April 17th 2011

2011-05-23T17:50:00.000-07:00

Blake needed to rehearse for a theater project called one acts. Chris suggested they practice at our house. They were practicing a zombie dance to thriller. They invited us to watch to give them our opinion. I t was fun to watch and give them our input.

Alec's farwell April 17th

2011-05-23T17:03:00.000-07:00

We had family come from far away to support Alec. We sure do appreciate all the support!
It was fun having Mom and Dad, Nate, Aaron and Mama West who made effort to be here for Alec. Of course family here as well. Bob and Danya and family. We had a great time with good food and good company. Alec had some friends come over and we had some ward friends over.

Future missionary....

Baby Shower April 16, 2011

2011-05-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

Cassidy and Danya had a surprise Baby shower for me while my family was here for Alec's farewell. I had no idea. They did a great job the decorations were so cute and the food was great.
Chris also gave me a picture of Christ holding a toddlers hand by Greg Olsen. With a special note from the painter. The first picture below is me looking at the message on the back.

Many great gifts!

Diaper cake from Jeni...sooo cute!

Decorations brown and green. My colors for Nathan.

Alec's 19th Birthday

2011-05-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

Went to dinner and came back late. Alec's friend Shailyn came by and gave him the Elder Brannan T-shirt. Which Alec loved.

Surprise for Alec Dec 2010

2011-05-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

Alec was at his dad's for Christmas so we waited to give him his big surprise from Grandma and Grandpa Paxman, Bob and Danya, Matt and Celeste, Nate and Andrea and Aaron and Jen. This year for Christmas instead of exchanging presents they gave all the money they would've spent to Alec for his mission. Then the grandparents matched it. We were all touched by this especiallyAlec who enjoyed the letters and pear sauce. These are pictures of him receiving the package with letters and the check and the pear sauce of course.

Christmas 2010

2011-05-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

December 2010 Christmas Eve

2011-05-23T14:32:00.000-07:00

Christmas Eve this year we only had Jacob and Cass with us. We had fun opening pajamas. Only problems is our camera lens had a lovely smudge so the pictures are blurry in the middle.

Baby Caelyn

2010-09-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

Bob gave Caelyn a beautiful blessing on Sunday. It was fun to see her in her pretty white dress. I don't have her in her dress but I am sure you can see it on Danya's blog. This is Alec holding Caelyn. She is so precious we just love having a new little baby to hold.

New Bike fun Sept 4th

2010-09-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

Birthday Party

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

We had a fun combined Birthday party. Jacob Miller and Ed Spann. Very cool we could celebrate both this Birthdays. What is even better is Mom and Dad were here from Utah for the baby blessing of precious Caelyn and added bonus Jacob and Ed's Birthday party. We had a great time.

Jacob half of cake was toy story themed.

The other Birthday boy in the back.

Jana and Randall came for the festivities.

Of course Katie Jo

Me with my mom.

Grandma and Ari

Backpack fun from grandma and grandpa and Aunt Celeste and Uncle Matt

Jacob received a bike and wouldn't open his other presents for awhile because he was so excited about his bike.

Sept 2nd 2010

2010-09-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

Jacob turned 3 on Sept 2nd. I had to work on his Birthday but we planned a party with Bob and Danya and mom family on Saturday sept 4th. On the night of his actual Birthday he wanted german pancakes but Jacob does call them cake so thats what he had. He was thrilled as you can see.

Ari's first temple trip

2010-09-07T21:22:00.000-07:00

Chris and I were both able to participate in Ari's first temple trip. It was very special and we went to Black bear Diner afterwards with Ari's friend. We had a great breakfast after a great experience.

DISNEYLAND!!! June 2010

2010-09-07T20:52:00.000-07:00

We had free tickets to disneyland from the service for a day promotion disneyland had this year. I took Ari for her Birthday to disneyland for 2 days. First day was mostly spent at disneyland. For dinner we celebrated at goofy's kitchen. Ari had a Birthday button and she received many Birthday wishes. We had a blast riding all the rides. On the second day one of my dear friends Rosanna was able to come with us. We had so much fun showing her around California adventure.

Ari's specialied hat. They have you pick out the ears the patches to go on the hat. It was very fun to put together.

Aladdin lamp told Ari she would win the lottery and live on a tropical island. When exactly?

Mad Hatter?

No getting wet for me and Rosanna we have our poncho's on!

Madness mania ride had a very short line...we just had to keep going on it.

Ari with her minnie mouse carmel apple..just had to get a picture to remember how cute it was before Ari ate it all gone.....

Outside of goofy's kitchen....me and my sweet little girl!

In goofy's kitchen Ari danced with the character's and all of them came over and had pictures taken. The food was amazing. They also came over with a Birthday cupcake with a candle.

We were unprepared for how wet we were about to get. First thing in the morning. I was in front and yes I was the most drenched!!!

This place rocks we had a great time and good food.

Cassidy's Graduation June 2010

2010-09-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

To make it to cassidy's graduation we had to fly from Arizona with the grandparents rent a car then drive to Redding. It was a fast but fun trip. We were able to take Cassidy to dinner the next night at Red Lobster. Then we were on our way backt to Arizona.

Graduation day!!!

2010-09-07T19:52:00.000-07:00

All year I have been writting a letter to Alec to try to express as a mom all the feelings of the milestones Alec has accomplished in his life. I first started doing this for his yearbook but then I felt it was way tooo personal to put in a yearbook that all his peers will read. I decided I would post a few on this blog to let him know how proud I am of him and all he has accomplished.

First he was born. I loved him from the first time I saw him he was so precious and so small and he was mine.

He accomplished walking at 9 months which was a little too soon because he was soon into everything.

Alec's next milestone was graduating from kindergarten. He had a cap for the ceramony he was so excited to graduate.

Next Alec was baptized at age 8. He had missionary discussions and decided to be baptized.

Alec then turned 12 and received the Aaronic preisthood.

Alec then started high school in whole new state and he always has done well in school. I have never had to ask him to do his homework at a very young age he took this responsibility on himself.

Alec was in band and football in high school he worked hard at both of these.

Alec then turned 16 and received his driving license. He also became a Priest.

Now we are to present day and Alec has graduated seminary and high school and has done really well. He is now preparing for an LDS mission.

No words can express how much I admire this young man. I may be his mom but I cannot take credit for all the good choices he has made. He has had many challenges that teenagers today would've easily took another road but he didn't. He has worked hard and continues to work hard every day. I feel honored to be his mom. I love him with all my heart and can't wait to see what the future holds for him.

Alec's graduation Perry High School

2010-09-07T19:27:00.000-07:00

Alec and Cassidy both had graduation one day apart from each other. We were lucky it wasn't the same day so we could go to both. Grandparents made extra special effort to go to both graduations too. It was a fun time. We had a dinner before graduation at Texas roadhouse and a party after. We were so happy to see Alec accomplish another important step in his life.

The graduate

Me and my baby boy...

Alec Seminary graduation

2010-09-07T18:15:00.000-07:00

Alec did three years of early morning seminary and 1 year of 5th period seminary. He will tell you he enjoyed early morning seminary the best he says it helped with his whole day. High school is hard enough but with seminary it made it easier.

No place like the closet???

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

When Cass and Blake came for Spring Break. We put Jacob down for a nap and we found him in Cassidy's suitcase. Not sure why he felt it was so cozy. We think he just missed his sister and enjoyed sleeping in her suitcase.

Easter 2010

2010-09-07T14:52:00.001-07:00

We had a very fun easter celebrating with Bob and Danya. We love living by family!!!

The easter egg searchers....all the kids looked for eggs..youngest first of course. Older children's eggs had money in them. How did they get so lucky!!! Except Cameron found one...way to go cameron!!!!

Looks like Ari has found some eggs.

After finding some eggs...time to chow down!!!

On the way easter egg hunting...basket in hand ready to go...

Easter bunny had eggs in the house and outside.

March 2010 Grammy's B-day

2010-09-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

We had the pleasure of having Mama West and hubby here in Arizona for a visit. We had so much fun going to Sedona and spending time with them and really enjoyed it when they came to our house for the weekend. We celebrated mama West B-day and this really fun outdoor restaurant that was just so wild wild west. You ordered then picked up your order with all the fixins then you could get a smore kit and roast marshmellows and make smores right by your table. We had a rootin tootin good time!!!

Alec's 18th Birthday and Blake's performance

2010-09-07T14:08:00.000-07:00

For Alec's 18th Birthday we had a huge surprise party for him in Redding. We took him out of school for a few days and had a big party for him at our house on Tilton Mine. It was a very fun party. the theme was American Idol and we had judges and karoke and food. The guest who were brave enough to sing in front of the judges were judged. We had a million dollar chocolate bar for the winner. Alec performed his sign language song, " I can ride my bike with no handle bars". This was a big hit of course. We had lots of family and friends there.
We were in Redding mainly to see Blake's performance in Mulan where he played Shang. He did an amazing job and we sooo enjoyed this production put on by Redding school of the Arts. A very fun but fast weekend.
We had no camera this weekend :(

Busy year...2010

2010-09-07T14:02:00.000-07:00

Well.. to all my family and friends who try to check my blog with our coming and goings have found no info here. Honestly I love to blog...really I do but when so many trials come and I am working full time I would rather spend the time with my family enjoying them instead of writting about them but that in turn leaves family and friends very much out of the loop. We are so grateful for you!!! We do enjoy reading of your many blogging adventures. I am going to try once again to catch up on my blogging but won't promise anything because we all know it most likely won't happen but I will try to do better. Thanks for all your love and support in the last few months with these trying times. Love you all!!!

Alec on the wall Jan 2010

2010-01-23T19:17:00.000-08:00

Ari taking pictures of Alec just for fun.

Ari's winter concert Jan 2010

2010-01-23T17:52:00.000-08:00

Jacob and Family 2009

2010-01-23T17:49:00.000-08:00

Ari Christmas 2009

2010-01-23T17:31:00.000-08:00

Blake Christmas 2009

2010-01-23T17:23:00.001-08:00

Alec Christmas 2009

2010-01-23T17:20:00.000-08:00

Cassidy Christmas 2009

2010-01-23T17:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve 2009

2010-01-23T16:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas eve Jammies

2010-01-23T16:27:00.000-08:00

Alec photo shoot

2010-01-23T16:25:00.000-08:00

Favorites Nov 2009

2010-01-23T15:14:00.000-08:00

I Love my family. We have many Great memories. These Family photos give us such amazing Memories of our lives together.

My Sweetie and me at the Wishing well.

Some Brotherly love.

Mommy loves..... big Hugs!!!

I Love my brother!!!!

The after party Nov 2009

2010-01-22T15:57:00.000-08:00

All the girls together!!!

Game what game???

Piano is in my blood ....not from my mom

PIZZA!!!

Andrea is where???

Baptism Nov 2009

2010-01-22T15:50:00.000-08:00

Channing's Baptism was so much fun. We had a great time watching him make this step in his life. He is a handsome young man.

Us with the Baptism boy!!!

Blake laughing with grandma.

Mom and Dad with Channing

The proud parents

Mom and Dad Nov 2009

2010-01-22T15:36:00.001-08:00

The leaders of this clan...love you Mom and Dad!!!!

Family Pics Nov. 2009

2010-01-22T15:29:00.001-08:00

Awwwww....Nov. 2009

2010-01-22T15:19:00.000-08:00

Brother's and sisters

2010-01-22T15:12:00.000-08:00

The boys
Chris, Bob, Nate, Aaron and Matt

The girls

Jen, Celeste and Andrea

Andrea, ME and Danya

Kids Thanksgiving 2009

2010-01-22T14:57:00.001-08:00

We had everyone here for Thanksgiving except Chrysta this year. We had a fun time reconnecting with family.
Cool tree... Danya had us write on leaves what we were thankful for.

Phantom of the Opera Nov. 2009

2010-01-22T14:53:00.000-08:00

For Blake's B-day we went and saw Phantom of the Opera here in Arizona. We told Blake on his Birthday but we didn't go and see until they were here for Thanksgiving break. We had an awesome time. We invited Danya as Blake's date with Bob's permission of course. The four of us went to Dave's BBQ then off to the broadway play. It was amazing to say the least. We all had a fabulous time.

Where did he go????

2009-11-19T18:46:00.000-08:00

Jacob sleeps in a travel crib since we moved. He can very easily get out but he usually always sleeps in it. I put him down for a nap and then I went to check on him and all I found was the empty crib but then I heard light snoring and thats when I found him all curled up on my bed...poor baby missin his mama and daddy.

Dare graduation November 3rd 2009

2009-11-04T18:32:00.001-08:00

D-drug
A-abuse
R-resistance
E-education

Ari's school had a Dare program for 9 weeks and they had their graduation November 3rd and they perfomed and had two dare essay's read then they got diploma's and shirts. Then refreshments of course.

Ari gets her haircut November 1st

2009-11-04T18:25:00.000-08:00

Ari decided she wanted her hair shorter we weren't sure how short until we went to a salon and saw the perfect picture for Ari's haircut. Ari loves it and we all think it is so cute!!!!

Walk for Diabetes

2009-11-04T18:13:00.000-08:00

Our family had the opportunity to walk for diabetes at Tempe lake Halloween morning...People walking for a cure. Saying boo to diabetes. It was a very cool experience to see all these people supporting a person in walking for a cure. My favorite shirt was a picture of a pancreas that had an arrow pointing to it saying I'm with dummy.
We wore shirts supporting Team Seth. Chris had a co-worker who was friends with this family. It was such a cool experience...I want to do it again next year!!!!

The walkers.....
Yes even I was up in the early am....I didn't work the night before...it was my day off...YES!

Alec with his handsome face in the early in the am....

Halloween 2009

2009-11-04T17:55:00.000-08:00

Trick or treating...Chris with his fro...walking with jacob around the neighborhood. After trick or treating we went to Jana and Randall's house for Chili and cornbread. Ari trick or treated over there but Jacob was done.

Ari the princess witch....she looked awesome in purple.

Jacob our little vampire.....

We got the cool caldrons from Channing's 8th Birthday party. He had a Harry Potter party. It was great.

Cake and presents!!! Sept 2nd 2009

2009-11-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

Danya's friend suzie makes the most awesome cakes....this was the cake she made for Jacob's Party. She did an amazing job...the hardest part was keeping little fingers out of it before it was cut. Jacob received some great presents from grandparents and Aunt and Uncles and kids. It was a great day!

Thanks everyone for the presents and birthday wishes!!!!

Jacob's 2nd Birthday Party

2009-11-04T17:24:00.000-08:00

Chris had the idea to have Jacob have a racing party...Jacob loves cars. The kids started out registering for the race. Next they raced small cars on tracks and then there were prizes. The kids had a great time. Jacob wasn't sure about all the fun...still a little to young to drive but he decided to run after the trucks with his dump truck. He had lots of fun!!! I think Channing, Cameron and Cason enjoyed the truck racing more but I know everyone had a good time.

Bucket fun Sept 2nd 2009

2009-11-04T17:16:00.000-08:00

The same morning of Jacob's Birthday he was so excited to play in a bucket he found. He was even more thrilled when Chris started carrying him around.

Sept 2nd 2009 Soggy bottom britches

2009-11-04T17:07:00.000-08:00

The morning of Jacob's birthday we got some rain. In Arizona the rain comes fast and just floods fast then it's gone leaving it's puddles all over. Jacob took advantage of this muddy mess and had a good time playing in the water and mud. We were a little concerned if it would dry out in time for his Birthday party. We are lucky it did.

Makuta

2009-08-27T14:49:00.000-07:00

Makuta is a indoor treehouse...Jacob and I went with Danya and kids. The kids had a blast.
This is the main tree house. They have about four. Each one has all sorts of slides and they can connect to each other.
Brotherly love...

Don't let the plastic fool you these slides are amazing...I received a plastic burn from going down it.

Jacob and Cason love looking at the fishes. They saw a fish that looked like Nemo...they were so excited!!!

Family Reunion Aug 1st 2009

2009-08-27T14:27:00.000-07:00

Uncle Ken and Aunt Barbara were in charge of the reunion this year. It was very fun. We had all the kids and mom and dad came it was a great time. My favorite thing was the homemade banana ice cream yummmy!!!

Ari playing kick ball.
Chris playing volleyball

Grandma and Jacob playing at the park.

Blake looking at Grandma B's trinkets.

Alec and Ari playing volleyball.

Cass watching the kickball game.

Mom and Dad at the game. Dad played with all the youngins.

The two trouble makers....

The other two trouble makers...hahaha

Random summer fun pictures

2009-08-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

Don't know how Ari fit in that cart...

Jacob with Ari at Home Depot

Alec trying not to get his picture taken through a chain linked fence... at the family reunion.

Ari dressing up with her cousins at legoland in the phoenix science center.

Cass wakeboarding....she got up on her first try!

Blake finally letting me take his picture proving he was there!!!

Splash Park with the cousins

2009-08-27T13:53:00.000-07:00

The kids having fun with cousins at the splash park....good times.

At least half of the gang...

Love this picture of Cason

Fun in the mud!!! July 2009

2009-08-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

While I was still in Redding Chris watched Channing, Cameron and Cason. While doing this he knew Jacob and Cason were outside but he had no idea that he would stumble onto this....

Two very wet and muddy boys. You can't tell in these pictures but they were very wet and muddy!!!

Caught ya!!!

Splash Park Fun July 2009

2009-08-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Our housing community has an awesome splash park which is great for kids. Jacob just loves it. These are pictures of Chris, Cassidy, Ari and Jacob. Cass is camera woman for the first two.

Jacob loves this one the best because it is a car of course......

Cass all dressed up but not for the splash park....

Science Center fun

2009-08-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

While Blake, Alec and I were in Redding while Blake did KU. Chris, Cassidy, Ari and Jacob were in Arizona. This is the kids at the science center with their cousins Channing, Cameron and Cason. Cassidy is the camera woman.

Patio Boat Fun!!! July 2009

2009-08-27T13:04:00.001-07:00

We have had so much fun this summer with our patio boat. This particular time was when we went out with Cass, Blake and Jacob. Chris cooked pizza and smores on our bbq/oven and we did a little tubing. Jacob got dunked temporarily but he handled it well considering. Who would've thought you could get dunked from a patio boat...haha.

Kids Unlimited opening night!!!

2009-07-24T00:16:00.000-07:00

First off I have to say I have never been to a Kids Unlimited performance all I can say is WOW!!! Blake and his fellow KU friends did an awesome job. I was very impressed with the amazing talent of these children. You can tell a lot of work goes into these productions and the kids love it.

These first two pictures are some cute decorations they have in the lobby that are displayed as your walking into the convention center. Very GROOVY!!!

"Outta Sight"

Party after the first night at Red Robin Yummy. Blake with Katheryn...sorry if spelled wrong..

Blake with me...Alec camera man...good times!!!

Radio Boy

2009-07-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

Blake is performing in Kids Unlimited where they sing and dance. Very cool program here. He is in the Plantinum singing group. This is the highest singing group. Part of being in this group means every year they get to go to Q97 and sing a song. Blakes group sang this morning and did an awesome job. Wish I could've recorded so you could hear it.

He will be performing the next 3 days. I will post pictures and stuff on here so you can see. They have a 70's theme and the program is called"Outta Sight."

I sure miss my other kiddos and my hubby. Sounds like they are having fun with Danya and her kiddos. Will post more tomorrow.

Running adventure

2009-07-21T22:47:00.000-07:00

Ok so I am trying to be a better blogger/journal writer. I decided to go for a run tonight while Alec and Blake were at YM because Chris, Cassidy, Ari and Jacob are in Arizona and I didn't run this morning. So I went to the river trail. I took the key off my key ring and placed it in the secret spot so I don't have to run with my key. I then had the goal of running for 4 miles which I was trying to mentally prepare for. I finally make it back and I ran the whole 4 miles. I am feeling pretty good. Then I get approached by this guy and he starts telling me he sees light in me and I must be a very spirtually person...really creeped me out. I get back to my car and grab my key put in the lock. It won't work...why won't it work??? Well I'll tell ya...wrong key. Oh my gosh my keys are in the car...my cell phone is in the car. I have to pick up Blake and I have no way to call anyone. I can't ask the weird guy so what do I do...just start running to the church...I don't know how far it is but I just ran and ran. I finally got there and nobody was worried nobody even noticed...I was so paniced. Anyways I got home and Alec took me to get the car...that my friends is my running adventure. I ended up running 6 miles when I was all done....whoa...

4th of July Fire works!!!

2009-07-21T15:12:00.001-07:00

The firework display was awesome...Jacob kept saying pretty or he was just quiet watching the fireworks go off. We went with the Richardson's to watch the fireworks. We had a great time...it was the perfect ending to the 4th of July holiday.

Fourth of July 2009

2009-07-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

We went out on our patio boat for the fourth of July with our friend Tony and his children Brandi and Jessee. Jacob had a blast on the tube and just loved jumping into the water. he has no fear which is scary to us...

These next two pictures are from a fourth of July party we went to at the Richardson's we had so much fun swimming and eating. They had tons of food and an awesome pool to cool off. Jacob once again just loving the water jumping in and being crazy. He even jumped off the diving board...what a little dare devil!

Jacob jumping in the water at the lake... I mixed up the order of these pictures. We went to the lake until about 3pm then we went to the pool party. What a blast!

Our house in Arizona

2009-07-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post a few pictures of our house for those who haven't seen it. May favorite thing is the view from our bedroom into the back yard. It has trails for running and trails for horses.

Front Yard

Back Yard

Kitchen

Staircase

Computer desk between kitchen/family room

Cars June 2009

2009-07-21T14:23:00.000-07:00

My little baby boy is addicted to cars...actual cars and the movie cars. We had a cardboard box and he would just sit in there and watch his cars movie...one day I found him like this. It was so cute I had to get a picture.

Ward soft ball games June 2009

2009-07-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

Well we had an exciting Ward party. We had a game night in at the Anderson building. I went to get the kids pizza and came back to this. Ari was playing softball and when she was thrown the ball underhand she didn't catch the ball but her eye did...poor thing. This was the next day when we took this picture so it looks much better then it did when it happened. It was really swollen. Our yM president was the one who threw it and he felt just horrible but Ari was a trooper and took it well. This isn't Ari's first black eye. She has gotten a smaller one in karate. Of course wouldn't you know it she had this happen the day before she was to go see her dad.

She still smiling....thats my Ari!!!!

Ari's plays at RSA May 2009

2009-07-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

Ari was in Drama 1 at RSA and they performed some small plays one where she played the mama pig in the three little pigs and the salesperson for Jack and the beanstalk. She did a good job. Then she did a large play called "How the West was Really Won." We love the key phrases the kids have in plays...Ari's catch phrase for this play was her yelling..Silver...silver silver in Nevada!!!!! She did a great job and she had some random small parts...she loved it. We gave her a rose at the end and the next day Blake gave her a rose. He was with his mom and had a small square dancing part in the begining of the play so Ari didn't get to see him until the next day. The both love drama and do a good job supporting each other. Here are a few pictures from the small plays.

After the play with Jacob.
After the play.

Mama Pig and salesperson costume. She wore pig ears in the mama pig scene.

The big 50...oh no

2009-07-21T13:33:00.000-07:00

Chris turned 50 on May 30th and we celebrated by going to dinner with Bob and Danya. We had cake and ice cream too. It was a fun night....we celebrated on May 29th because I was heading back to Redding on May 30th.