These are the days!

Lake Powell

2011-09-01T14:19:00.001-06:00

Cliff jumping was a hit!

We spent countless hours tubing!

I think the background in these pictures almost look fake it is so pretty! I love Lake Powell!

First Day of School

2011-08-23T14:13:00.001-06:00

Lizzy 4th Grade with Mr. Shirley

Parker 2nd Grade with Mrs. Tucker

Austin Preschool at Learning Dynamics with Mrs. White

Summer of 7 Peaks

2011-08-13T18:22:00.001-06:00

We got 7 Peaks passes this summer. We had so much fun going. We went a lot with our cousins! The kids loved it.

Gardiner Reunion

2011-08-12T18:02:00.002-06:00

Uncle Kent put together a big Gardiner Family Reunion. This group contained those related to Robert and Margaret Gardiner (my Great Grandparents). We started Friday night at a church building in SLC. Then on Saturday morning we met and did pioneer games outside the church, and lots of different activities inside. They had candy making, games, cotton candy, and lots of amazing things Kent has done with family history.

The kids wore their Roboto shirts to surprise Grandpa and Grandma!

Washington DC...Rachel's Baptism

2011-08-04T17:16:00.001-06:00

Rachel was Baptized August 6Th and we all flew out for her big day! It was so fun to be in DC and in Alexandria with the Simmons. We had a great trip! We always LOVE our time spent with Jeff, Beth and the girls.

Parker went one full year without soda!!! Here is his reward money!! Go Parks!

One night we drove out to Nokesville to visit the Homers! It was so fun catching up with them. They have worked so hard on their house, and it looks amazing. Wish we lived closer we sure miss their family.

Neighborhood Party

2011-08-01T22:02:00.001-06:00

Every year our neighborhood does a July 4Th (ish) party! They always do a bike race with the kids, BBQ for dinner and then activities. This year we did a water balloon fight after the bike race and then we watched "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" on a movie screen hanging from our porch. It was very fun. We did root beer floats and had a popcorn machine. They have been doing this for years, but this was our first one since we moved in last August. We have such great neighbors. It is always fun to get together.

24th of July Celebrations

2011-07-25T21:42:00.001-06:00

We had a big 24th of July Simmons breakfast at the Alta Club bright and early. We were right on the parade route, and could watch it out the windows. Sitting down is Max with 5 of his siblings. We were missing 3 siblings.

That afternoon we did a little boating with the McCleans.

John Michael Reese....JACK!!!

2011-07-24T21:40:00.001-06:00

Johnny and Jenny's sweet baby Jack was born on July 24Th! I must say he looks just like Johnny. I know a little scary, but he is sure cute! So fun to see them as parents.
John Michael Reese
8 lbs. 2 oz. 21 1/2 inches long

Here is Jack one week old when we had them over for dinner.

Jack and cousin Luke!

Fun with the Robinsons

2011-07-23T21:14:00.002-06:00

It was so fun having John and Nancy come for a visit! On Saturday we headed for the lake and had some fun.

Even Grandma went tubing!

Lagoon x 2

2011-07-22T18:08:00.002-06:00

In July we went to Lagoon twice with the Talls. We bounced back the second time for $10 a piece. Thanks to the Millers even Mike got to bounce back without even going the first time. Lagoon was so fun, and very hot! Parker could not get enough of Wicked and has not stopped talking about it since. Luke came with us one time and stayed with G&G Simmons the second time. On our second trip out there my rear tire popped! It was an absolute nightmare. I instantly slowed, and I was in the fast lane. I thought I was going to crash but was able to pull left. There was hardly any room and so part of the car was in the fast lane. I was so SCARED!!!! I called 911 and it took the fire truck 9 minutes to get to us and stop the fast lane. We said a prayer and everyone stayed buckled up! The sadest part is that a Tahoe was not paying attention and swerved when she saw us. She hit the truck next to her, and luckily no one was hurt and it was a minor accident. I felt awful!! With the fire truck in the fast lane another policeman stopped traffic and we pulled off. Incident Report changed my tire and at this point the Talls were with me on the side of the road (thank goodness for cell phones.) Parker was crying at one point and later I asked him if he was really scared. He told me he was scared that we would not be able to make it to Lagoon. I was so glad that Mike met us there and drove us home on the spare. Here is a picture of my tire.

And Lagoon:

Austin's Birthday

2011-07-21T14:56:00.001-06:00

Happy 5Th Birthday Austin! He had a GREAT Birthday filled with lots of Dinosaurs and fun. We started out the day with German Pancakes (his favorite)! Then he had a friend party where we went on a Dinosaur scavenger hunt and ended up finding buried Dino eggs in the Newman's sandbox. We had Dino cake and colored Dino pictures. Then we went outside and had a water party on the McCleans big blow up water slide. Jen was so sweet and came to help me with the party since Mike was out of town. Austin had a great time! Then after all of his friends left we went to McDonald's for dinner and then to G&G Reese's house for a swim party. The Reese clan was there (minus G&G and Becker's who had the flu) and G&G Simmons and John and Nancy were in town as well! Austin blew out his candle at the swim party with an ice cream sandwich that he chose for the party. We also had a Dino pinata at the pool for all the cousins. Can't believe our Austi La Pasti is 5!!!! He is such a good kid!! We love him so much.

Kids Pictures in the park

2011-07-20T14:50:00.001-06:00

Fun in July

2011-07-15T14:37:00.003-06:00

Lizzy and our neighbor Aspen had fun dressing Luke up to be Luketta. Such a cute girl! They thought it was so funny!

We still will find Austin on occasion out of bed and asleep wherever he chooses! This used to be the regular. I am so glad it is now only on occasion. He is much bigger for the stairs than he used to be!

We met the Wilkey's at Classic Skate when they were in town in July. It is always fun to catch up with good friends! We are hoping to one day have them in Utah for good!

We went up the Canyon with G&G Simmons and had a cookout.

Bismarck Trip

2011-07-05T11:56:00.002-06:00

We flew to Bismarck the day after 4th of July and stayed for a week with Grandpa and Grandma. We had so much fun! When we got to the airport they were wearing these "Mr. and Mrs. Roboto" t-shirts. The kids went nuts! When we talk about them at home they are known as the "Robotos."

When we got back to their house they had shirts for the kids. A definite hit!

We did lots of fun things while we were in Bismarck. One of the main things we did that I didn't take pictures of was play baseball in their backyard. We played for hours! Grandma was the master pitcher and would pitch to Parker for hours. They would count to see how many he could hit out of the backyard and into the temple grounds. All the kids LOVED playing baseball.

Here we are at the Bismarck Zoo.....

We took the train ride around the zoo, and shared a big cotton candy.

In the temple house:

This little amusement park is right by the zoo. The kids LOVED it!

Austin could not believe they would let him ride this on his own! I was a bit surprised too!

I thought Austin's praying pose was so funny in these next two. Not sure what he was doing, maybe this was a karate move.

Austin's favorite dinosaur in the museum.

The Bismarck Temple!

The Cheney's invited us out to their home to do "paper rockets." The kids got to make their own rockets and then shoot them off. It was amazing how high they could go! Classic Austin: he loved his rocket so much he was not willing to shoot it off.

4th of July Hot Air Balloons

2011-07-04T11:38:00.001-06:00

On the 4th we went down to Provo to see the Hot Air Balloons take off with the McCleans and Reese's. We got there in time to see them all blown up (early morning). But when it was time for them to take off it got to windy :( Still fun to see the balloons and we got a free pancake breakfast. We watched some of the parade, then we went back to the McCleans house to BBQ and the kids played on their water slide. That night we did fireworks in our street with our neighbors the Newmans.

4th of July Weekend

2011-07-01T11:18:00.001-06:00

We went up to the cabin on July 1st for the Oakley Rodeo! We got there in enough time to play on the 4 wheelers before the Rodeo, and have a family dinner. Here was the big ride before dinner.

Matt brought something special to the Rodeo this year, oh yes, the mustaches! When he came up to us in the parking lot we did not even realize it was him. Matt's mustache looked so real!

Luke was excited for his first Rodeo!

Austin charmed the Rodeo Queens after the show!

On my Birthday we had a yummy breakfast at the cabin! Then we grabbed lunch and swam at the Sandy house.

That night we went out on Utah Lake with the Hardins and the Newmans as couples. We took Cafe Rio out on the boat and we stayed out late enough to watch the fireworks from Stadium of Fire. I was horrible with taking pictures! Good Birthday and great weekend!

Hogle Zoo

2011-06-20T15:10:00.002-06:00

Yeah for Summer! We headed to the Hogle Zoo with Grandpa and Grandma Simmons. It was the perfect time to go since they were having "Days of the Dinosaurs." Austin was thrilled and we saw Dinosaurs all around. Most of them moved and some even sprayed water! Very fun!

Bear Lake Reunion

2011-06-15T23:03:00.001-06:00

We had so much fun in Bear lake for the weekend with the Boise crew. Here is a group shot we took the last day in front of where we stayed.

Luke loved the Tolman kids, but who wouldn't?!

I think I could get in a lot of trouble for posting this one..... it has become tradition to receive new men's swimwear each summer.....

Another group shot where we swam and played at the beach.

The Bozeman crew!

Fun with sand!

Bee's Game

2011-06-13T23:01:00.001-06:00

We went to the Bee's Game and sat in the Coherex Box. We were very excited to find the Condies right next door.

Baby James Blessing

2011-06-05T22:56:00.000-06:00

Trent's Baptism Day

2011-06-04T22:53:00.001-06:00

Johnny and Jen's Sealing!

2011-06-03T22:35:00.001-06:00

Johnny and Jen were sealed in the Draper Temple on June 3rd! When little Jack is born they will be an eternal family! It was a wonderful sealing performed by our Dad.

Last Day of School!

2011-06-03T22:34:00.000-06:00

Dance Festival with GGG!

2011-06-02T22:21:00.000-06:00

The kids had their Dance Festival at School. They were so lucky to get G&G Reese and Great Grandma Gardiner there to watch them. Lizzy performed to More and Parker performed to Who let the Dogs out? Very fun and cute! Can't believe 1st and 3rd Grade are over!! Here is Lizzy with her friend Alyssa.

Parker with his buddy Spencer.

The kids with Great Grandma Gardiner!

Both Grandmas!

Montana and West Yellowstone

2011-05-27T21:36:00.004-06:00

We picked Mike up from the airport after a trip to Europe and headed North, back to his Mother Land.....MONTANA! We spent the night in Rexburg and then drove into Livingston the next day. Of coarse we had to give the kids the tour of Rexburg and where Mom and Dad met and fell in love :) They entertained us for about 2 minutes and then wanted to watch a movie, but Mike and I had fun. Here I am by Apartment 104, good memories! Now onto Montana....

We stayed with Tim, Peg and Jake. We went swimming at Chico Hot Springs....Love those Montana views.

Tim and Peg took us out on the Ranch and the kids got to play in the mud, ride 4 wheelers and ride horses!

We got lots of rain while we were there, which made for some pretty great puddles.

WEST YELLOWSTONE

On our way home from Montana we stopped in West Yellowstone and spent the night. We had fun driving through the park and seeing all the animals!

Here we are in front of "Old Faithful!"

Cousins!

2011-05-23T23:37:00.002-06:00

We sure love our cousins! Chera took these pictures on Mother's Day (May 8). There will be 4 babies born on the Reese side this year. Johnny and Jenny's to come in July! Lydia is 10 months, Luke 5 months and James 1 month!

Sweet Lukie!

2011-05-22T21:44:00.003-06:00

Luke is almost 6 months old! WOW! He is so fun and such a sweet baby. He has completely changed and totally lost his colic. We LOVE our HAPPY baby!

Spring Soccer

2011-05-21T22:24:00.002-06:00

Coach Jay was awesome! He pushed Parker hard, which was great!

Coach Ryan and Steven were great too! They had to keep pointing which direction Austin needed to go. I think Austin scored 3 times in the wrong goal, never in the right one. Oh well, at least he is playing which is better than our Fall experience.

THE BLUE SHARKS

Coach Ryan gave all the boys a soccer trophy. Austin took his to bed with him that night :)

"The Brothers!"

Parker and Austin have been in Soccer this Spring. It has been a really fun Season. Parker's coach has been really great (Coach Jay). He is on a team with his friend Adam. He has made a couple goals and had lots of fun playing! Austin is on a team with everyone from our ward and that has been fun too. He still looks into the sky as much as he plays. He has also had a lot of fun playing soccer with his buddies.

Mission CALL!

2011-05-18T22:39:00.002-06:00

Grandpa and Grandma Simmons got their mission call today! We were so excited to have them open it and see where and when they would be going. Lizzy came home from School a little early with a stomach ache and so we checked Parker out a bit early to open it! They let Lizzy and Parker read the letter and say where they were going. They will be serving for 2 years in the Lima, Peru Temple! They leave September 19th for the MTC in Provo for two weeks. We are so excited for them, and we will sure miss them when they go. We are already making our plans to head to Peru and visit!

Austin's Preschool Graduation

2011-05-12T22:31:00.002-06:00

Austin graduated from his 1st year of Preschool. He still has one more year to go. He went to Miss Katie's Preschool this year and had a great experience. He is very excited to be done with School a few weeks before Lizzy and Parker are done.

Red Shoe Cousin Club

2011-05-05T22:56:00.001-06:00

Lizzy drew this picture during church a few weeks ago. Notice it is her ruling over all the cousins. She loves her cousins! She tells me daily that she cannot wait until she can babysit Lydia.

Presenting... Alice in Wonderland

2011-04-30T14:25:00.001-06:00

Lizzy was in a Theatre group called Up With Kids this Winter and they performed Alice in Wonderland on Saturday. Lizzy was Princess Jasmine. She had 5 speaking lines and was in a few of the dances. She had a lot of fun doing it. She got to be on TV last week at 6 a.m. on Good Morning Utah performing one of the dances. Their costumes throughout the performance were darling!

Duet Recital

2011-04-30T14:19:00.000-06:00

Lizzy had her duet piano recital on Saturday. She played with a little boy that happens to be in her school class named Lisle. They performed "The Pirate Ship" by Bober. They did a great job! When Lizzy was done she took a deep breath on the way back to her seat. After the performance we went with Max and Claudia to Zupas for dinner then we headed to Lizzy's performance of Alice and Wonderland.

Easter Sunday

2011-04-24T14:38:00.000-06:00

Parker and Lizzy were up and ready to hunt at 6:45. Instead we made them get ready for church while we waited for Austin to wake up. The hunt was on and they were all very excited to find their baskets. We had a yummy Easter breakfast of eggs, hash browns, and sausage. Mike and I made ours into breakfast burritos. And after all of that we still made it to Stake Conference by 10 a.m. Lucky for us Max and Claudia saved us a soft seat in the chapel! After church we went and played at the park for a while, played some basketball, then Lizzy and Mike road their bikes to Grandpa and Grandma's house. We had a wonderful Easter dinner over there! Grandma hid chocolate eggs that the kids loved finding! The new Easter outfits!

Lizzy got a shot of us.

Hop with the Cousins!

2011-04-16T15:01:00.000-06:00

James Markus Reese

2011-04-12T16:48:00.001-06:00

Paul and Chera had their baby on April 12th. James Markus Reese came in weighing 8 pounds. He is absolutely darling and we are so glad that he is here. It is a little crazy seeing my youngest brother as a "Daddy!"

A normal Sunday

2011-04-10T16:33:00.001-06:00

Happy Spring! Can't believe our little Luke is already 4 months old! He is such a happier baby now. His colic was only really bad for about 8 weeks, thank goodness..... I have never bounced so much in all my life! Now when it is time for his nap I wrap him up and lay him down, and sometimes he even falls to sleep without crying. Life is good! He is such a sweet boy.

Happy 7th Parker!!

2011-04-04T21:38:00.001-06:00

Parker is now 7! I can't believe it! One more year and he will get baptized. Parker really has grown up so much in the last few years. He has turned much less moody :) He is such a fun kid. He is an absolute joy to have in our family. We sure love that thick dark hair and those dark eyes. We love you Parks! So glad you had a good Birthday! Here he is the morning of his Birthday. He was so excited! He was pretty much showered and ready to go by 7 a.m. He couldn't wait any longer so we let him open a few presents before school. Mike made German Pancakes for breakfast.
As you can see he was very excited!

He had a Mario Party. Here is his fun cake! We found the Mario characters at Toys 'r' Us and Kohlers made it for us.

Parker had a boy/girl party! At first when he told me he wanted to invite girls too he blushed. He and Spencer then talked about it one day after school. I was cracking up listening to their conversation about who they were going to chase at the party. So cute! He was so embarrassed delivering the invitations too. Parker said to me the other day, "Mom, who do you think is the cutest girl in my School class?" He would kill me if he knew I was putting this on the blog. I said, "I don't know who do you think?" (In my head wondering where this is going.) Right where I thought it was. His answer, "Oakley." Just like I thought. His party started right after school. We started out with cake and ice cream, then had a little dance party, then we headed off to play laser tag at Trafalga.

Love the face he is giving as he is being sung to!

These kids had some amazing dance moves!

The Birthday gang. Mike had them hold up what they gave to Parker.

Back row: Luke, Will, Parker, Adam, Micah, Xander, and Spencer
Front Row: Bella, Aspen, Andrea, Oakley, and Austin

After Parker's party we met the family at Pizza Pie Cafe for dinner. Everyone came which was Talls, Beckers, Johnny and Jenny, Paul and Chera and Max and Claudia!

Luke's First Rice Cereal

2011-04-03T21:29:00.004-06:00

On Conference Sunday we tried Rice Cereal for the 1st time. He sort of ate it. I would say most of it came back out. Not bad for the first attempt.
Between sessions Mike took the boys for a bike ride. It looked nice when he left, but a few minutes later started to snow :) That's Utah for you. Parker was a good big brother and still managed to get Luke to go to sleep!

Tall's Kids Choice Awards

2011-04-02T21:20:00.000-06:00

During the Priesthood Session Jen had a Nick Jr. Awards Party. She went all out and had each food item going along with a show. The kids even got to make slime!

Boise Girls

2011-03-31T14:28:00.001-06:00

It was so fun to have a mini reunion at Monica's house with some Boise friends. We all met when we had one or no children! Wow, how that has changed in the last 8 years! We were even missing 3 of mine (Luke was alseep inside) and Ethan in the picture. It was fun to see everyone!

Surprise!

2011-03-30T14:00:00.002-06:00

On my way home from the Dinosaur Museum I talked to Mike on the phone. He said he was in Germany somewhere, I can't remember now exactly where. We chatted for a few minutes and I told him good night. He asked me where I was and where the kids were? I said they had gone home with friends after school since I knew I wouldn't be back in time. Then Austin and I got home and right when I walked in I knew it was not like I had left it. I instantly heard the drier and thought oh no, it is broken it has been running all day long. Then there was Mike standing in the kitchen! He was not supposed to be home until Saturday night. I was SO SO SO excited!!!!! I had no idea. It was such a great surprise. We then went and picked up both the kids and Mike hid in the back and surprised both of them. He grabbed Parker from the back and it really scared him at first! Max had picked Mike up from the airport, and had known all along. They are such good secret keepers! It is always wonderful to have Mike home!!!

Peg and Jake's Visit!

2011-03-30T13:52:00.000-06:00

Jake and Peg came to Utah for a few days to visit. It was so fun to see them and have the boys get to play! On Wednesday we went to Wendy's for lunch then onto the Dinosaur Museum. We watched the 3D movie there but it was a bit over the boys head. We had lots of fun in the Museum.

Mike, Austin, Peg and Jake went skiing on Thursday! It was a warm day and the boys both did well!

The Miller's Visit

2011-03-29T13:33:00.002-06:00

Carrie and her kids came and stayed a few nights with us over their Spring Break! It was so fun having them here! Her kids are so polite. I would go upstairs and find them cleaning the room where they slept or Hailey cleaning my bathroom! I need some tips! Lizzy slept right between Amber and Hailey both nights. On Monday they headed into Salt Lake for the day then we had dinner and went to the Dino Museum. On Tuesday my kids got to miss school and we went to the Zoo! Here are the kids on the train at the Zoo.....
Dino Museum digging grounds.

Water Table...

Do we weigh as much as a Dinosaur?

Sledding in Midway

2011-03-18T13:27:00.001-06:00

On Friday we pulled the kids out of school and went sledding. With Mike home so little these few months we really try to make the most out of when he is home. We went up with the Talls and Walters. It was such a WARM day! Grandma Simmons kept Luke for us. It is nice that he takes a bottle.

St. Patricks Day

2011-03-17T13:15:00.001-06:00

We woke up on St. Patricks Day to the furniture tipped over, green toilets and footprints around the house. When the kids were all up they got to go on a shamrock hunt. Once they all found 7 shamrocks they got their green prize at the end. Poor Lizzy had a hard morning as she asked me if I did all this and not the leprechaun. I told her I did and she was shocked and had a hard time understanding why I would do that! The first of many surprises like that one I am sad to say. We had a fun morning.

We had a yummy green breakfast of green cinnamon rolls, green eggs, green grapes, lucky charms, and I decided to not turn the smoothie and milk green. But I was tempted.

The Wilkey's were in Utah this weekend too. I went shopping and out to lunch with Monica and Steph in the morning, then we met up at "Incredible Pizza" with the kids to play. That night we went to dinner as couples. It was a FUN filled day and so great to see them. Luke was asleep, but here is the rest of the clan!

Austin's 1st Ski!

2011-03-16T13:11:00.000-06:00

Mike took Austin skiing for the first time! He did awesome, with very little complaining. After a few runs he was done. Mike said it was pretty chilly. But he did it and wants to go back!

Mickey or Minnie?

2011-03-14T13:04:00.000-06:00

Johnny and Jenny announced that they are having a boy!! They are due in July with little Michael John, or Jack!! We are so excited! This will make 3 boys and 1 girl born into the Reese side this year. Luke is one lucky boy!

Luke's 3 Month Pictures

2011-03-08T13:06:00.001-07:00

Lost Dog

2011-03-08T11:39:00.002-07:00

I got such a good laugh when I found these hung all around the house. Lizzy lost her dog webkinz and hung reward signs all around. She said if it is not found this week that she is going to up the prize money to $2.00!

Student of the Month!

2011-03-04T11:19:00.002-07:00

Parker is student of the month this month in Mrs. Marshall's class! He was SO SO excited!!! This is the plaque that hangs in the front hallway of the school. Parker had a rough start to the 1st Grade but now LOVES it! I am so thankful. A rough start for him also meant a rough start for me! Go Parks!! Good work!! I should also mention that Lizzy was student of the month in October! I did not get a picture because we were so new I didn't even know the plaque was there.

Gold Coins!

2011-03-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

Parker had a big week this week! He lost his other front tooth and the one next to it. Two teeth in one week. He had Grandpa Simmons pull out one with dental floss and then Parker pulled the other one out at school! He got one gold dollar coin for his first tooth and then the tooth fairy brought him 2 gold coins for his front tooth! Parker woke up at 6 a.m. both mornings to show me his money! I am happy he lost his front tooth since it was pointing directly out! I didn't know a tooth could even do that.

SMILE!!!

2011-02-28T22:30:00.001-07:00

Luke is stealing all of our hearts with his smile! We can't get enough. The kids call the morning his happy time and they sit and talk to him and listen to him coo and watch him smile away! They are still excited for when he becomes "as fun as Lydia!" Lydia is 5 months older than Luke and so stinking cute! Every time you look at her she smiles.

School or Skiing?

2011-02-17T22:24:00.001-07:00

On Thursday afternoon Mike went and checked the kids out of school to take them skiing for the afternoon. Lizzy is good enough now to take off on her own while Mike works with Parker. They were thrilled to get checked out! Were trying to get as much Dad time as we can with him only being home for a short time.

Date Night with Dad

2011-02-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

Parker got to go with Mike to the Jazz Game! They had lots of fun and ate lots of popcorn! Parker was very excited to come home with a little Jazz Ball.

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T21:56:00.000-07:00

The night before Valentine's Day we went to G&G Reese's house for dinner and a Valentine exchange for the cousins. To be honest Mike and I switched off with a screaming Luke most of the night. We had fun though and Grandma made homemade lollipops with the kids.
On Valentine's Day Lizzy wore this darling outfit! (Thank you Grandpa and Grandma!) Parker refused to wear his shirt that had an arrow pointing up at him and said "Man of your dreams." Mike and I begged him to wear it and he wouldn't. So instead he wanted to spike his hair, not sure how this has anything to do with Valentine's Day but that is what he did.

Mike and I helped with the Valentine Day party in Parker's class! It was wild and fun! You can see Austin at the end of the table, he helped too!

Parker with his two best buds: Xander and Spencer!

Luke's Blessing

2011-02-13T14:35:00.003-07:00

Luke had a wonderful blessing day. In the morning when we were eating breakfast he smiled for the first time!! Mike got him to smile over and over again. Lizzy was freaking out she was so excited! The kids LOVE having Luke coo and smile now. He is such a sweet boy! Our ward was at 11:00. Mike gave Luke a wonderful blessing. Then we came back to our house for lunch.

Group shot outside the ward building...

Luke ready to eat and done taking pictures!

Luke with his Grandparents. What a lucky boy.

Sledding at Soldier Hollow

2011-02-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

The Simmons flew in on Thursday for Luke's blessing. On Friday I checked the kids out of school and we went sledding up at Soldier Hollow in Midway. It was so nice because there were no lines! We had so much fun. Claudia was so sweet and sat in the lodge with Luke. Good times!

Luke's First Haircut

2011-02-05T13:56:00.001-07:00

Luke had a Grandpa hairdo going on so we decided to take care of it. No more George Costanza!

2 Months Old

2011-02-04T13:45:00.000-07:00

The Secret Letter

2011-01-29T23:39:00.000-07:00

The kids were playing over at the Beckers on Saturday and they decided to make this secret letter on the computer. Trent was the typer. Julie thought it was so funny and gave me a copy of it. When they were on the computer Parker was telling all the cousins about an assembly he had at school. It was about safety on the computer and to never give out your information. Parker took it that there is ONE man on the computer that wants your information and is dangerous. So now all the kids are watching out for the man on the computer who wants their information.

Good Night Luke

2011-01-29T14:38:00.002-07:00

I was holding Luke asleep and the kids decided to make him a bed on the couch. Once they were done he of coarse woke up and they wanted me to get some pictures of Luke in their bed. The pictures don't show very well that there were about 10 blankets on the couch. Austin won and Luke got Thomas for a pillow.

January Cabin Fun....

2011-01-22T13:59:00.002-07:00

We headed up to the cabin with the Hardins, Petersens, and Kayden Clark this weekend. Mike took the day off on Friday since he will be starting his time in Europe soon. So we checked the kids out of school and headed up early. They were thrilled to be checked out! When we got to the cabin we ran into the Knights and the VanAlfens. So fun to see them! On Friday night we had a big spaghetti dinner. Then the kids watched Despicable Me in the basement and the adults played Farkle. Jason kept rolling huge numbers which made it very fun. We got sucked into a movie and ended up staying up to finish it.
Austin begged Parker to go outside and get him an icicle. He was very pleased when Parker came back with this!

This picture of Mike and Austin was cracking me up because they both have their mouths open. I don't think they planned this!

Lizzy and Josie played in the snow like crazy on Saturday! They lasted forever! Lizzy is a little natural on the sled and rides all the way from the top of the neighbors driveway, across the road and then down past my parents cabin. Good thing the snow mobiles kept coming down to get her or it would have been a long walk back up!

The kids had many dance parties this weekend. They kept playing the scene on Despicable Me over and over again of "Boogie People."

Day off of School!

2011-01-17T13:57:00.002-07:00

The kids had Monday off of school and so we went to Kangaroo Zoo. I don't usually post when we go but this is what they always do. They all get a slushy and sit around the table and talk. It is so cute! Jen went and got Julie's boys since she got her appendix taken out last week! Poor girl was having a lot of pain and that is what ended up happening. One of the hardest parts was that Lydia is nursing and doesn't take a bottle. I think Julie was more concerned about her than herself! She is still recovering from her surgery.

Lizzy is 9!!

2011-01-15T13:33:00.003-07:00

Lizzy had a great Birthday! I cannot believe that my oldest is already 9 years old! We are getting old. Lizzy is such a good girl in so many ways. She is a great example to her 3 little brothers. On Friday I went into Lizzy's classroom with cupcakes and cookies. Her class sang to her and then we took the treats down to the lunch room.
On Lizzy's Birthday she woke up to a decorated house! (Mike and I stayed up late after going to the Jazz game the night before.) We had doughnuts and scrambled eggs for breakfast.

This was Lizzy's cake for her friend party....

This was Lizzy's cake for her family party...

Lizzy had 5 friends over for her party. We had Sloppy Joe's for lunch, then we did presents and cake and ice cream! Then we headed to Build a bear for her party.

Luke was excited for the party!

Back Row: Victoria, Lizzy and Payton
Front Row: Josie, Emma and Michaela
Very Front: The crazy brothers!

Parker was in rare form at the party. He was showing off for the girls and Mike and I were dying laughing. Mike said as a teenager he is going to love having an older sister.

The Crew at Build a Bear. They put on such a fun party! Our host played games with the kids and really made it a lot of fun!

Saturday night we met the family (Talls, Beckers, Johnny, Jenny, Chera, Max and Claudia) at the Olive Garden for dinner. Then we came back to our house for presents and cake and ice cream. Lizzy is plugging her ears for a very loud rendition of "Happy Birthday." That is what you get when you have lots of boy cousins.

Jazz Game

2011-01-14T13:29:00.002-07:00

Mike, Luke and I went to a Jazz Game! It was a fun date night. We got very yummy tacos and a taco salad for dinner. Luke slept through most of the game and could have cared less that it was very loud! Go Jazz!

More Luke...

2011-01-12T13:26:00.002-07:00

We just can't get enough of this little guy!

Luke One Month Old

2011-01-04T13:17:00.001-07:00

Photos by Lizzy

2011-01-01T13:12:00.003-07:00

Lizzy got a hold of the camera and I thought these were funny! She actually did a pretty good job.

Luke's Nursery

2010-12-31T22:08:00.001-07:00

Mike finished Luke's nursery about a week before he was born. I wish I had taken a before shot since Mike painted and put up the chair rail. With this being boy #3 I wanted something different than the Noah's Ark we used with Parker and Austin. I love how it turned out! Luke and I say, "Thanks Daddy!"

New Year's Eve

2010-12-31T21:21:00.000-07:00

We went up to the cabin on New Years Eve with the Talls and Beckers. It was 1 degree when we snowmobiled in. I was very nervous to take Luke up with it being so cold! I bundled him in my baby Bjorn and put a big blanket over us. He slept the whole way and never made a sound. His first trip to the cabin at 3 weeks old. We had pizza for dinner, and lots of treats for dessert. The cousins were all very excited to be having a sleepover. Once they were in bed we stayed up and played Farkle, then watched Inception. Such a good movie! We toasted with some frozen bubbly at midnight (Mike had put it outside and forgot to bring it back in...) and called it a night. In the morning Trent wanted to get outside first thing. We made them wait a bit hoping it would warm up a little. When it got to 2 degrees we gave up and let the sledding party begin. I was shocked how long the kids stayed outside with how cold it was! They had so much fun! Austin had no desire to go play outside and I didn't make him since it was so cold.

Christmas Cards 2010

2010-12-30T21:18:00.000-07:00

Snowy Day

2010-12-30T21:10:00.001-07:00

We got to experience one of our first good Highland snowstorms a few days after Christmas. The wind definitely blows in Highland. Mike pulled in front of the house to take these pictures and got our suburban stuck. I guess 4 wheel drive can only get you so far! The house looks cold...
Our back patio...

Christmas Day

2010-12-25T21:50:00.004-07:00

Christmas morning started early for Parker. He was up by 5:00 ready to open gifts. He came running into our room so excited and told us that he, Lizzy, Austin and Luke were all on the nice list. We tried to be nice, but still sent him off to watch a Star Wars for a few hours. At 7:15 we were ready to see what Santa had brought! The kids were SO SO SO excited. It was so fun watching them open their gifts. Everything Austin opened he told us "This is what I have wanted all year!" Santa left Lizzy a note telling her that he could not get her a yellow bike but instead brought his favorite color blue for her. She was thrilled and loves her new blue bike. After we opened gifts we had cinnamon rolls, eggs, ham and smoothies for breakfast. G&G Simmons came at the end of the opening excitement and had breakfast with us. We spent the rest of the morning playing and setting up toys. A great morning so relaxed in our jammies. My Parents also came by to wish us a Merry Christmas and see what Santa had brought the kids. We spent the day at home and then went to G&G Simmons for dinner. Lizzy and Mike rode their bikes to the Simmons and the boys and I drove and met them there. After dinner we all went into the Simmons basement and watched Elf. A wonderful Christmas!

Lizzy and her new bike

G&G Simmons gave Lizzy a sewing machine. She is so excited!
Parker got a DSI XL...
Austin got a bat cave, Cars garage and Thomas track...
We gave him the Backyardigan gang...
Luke in his Santa Suit!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T21:17:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas Eve! Mike, Lizzy and Max went up and skied for a few hours at Alta and the boys and I hung out at Grandpa and Grandma Reese's house. Everyone came for the festivities including Grandpa and Grandma Simmons. We started our with a big dinner of ham and turkey. Very yummy! Then we did the nativity and Julie was the narrator. You can see the parts everyone played in the pictures below. It was so fun having Luke as our baby Jesus this year! After the nativity we did sibling and cousin gifts. Then we had dessert. Claudia made some amazing pies. Then a special visitor or 2 stopped by. It was a great night. Once we were home the kids decided they all wanted to sleep in the same room so we made Lizzy a bed on the boys trundle. We left cookies out for Santa and went straight to bed.

Our Nativity...

Mary, Joseph and the Baby Jesus

Mary's Donkey

Our Surprise visitors...Santa and Buddy the Elf!

Buddy the Elf with Luke

Matching shirts from G&G

Matching P.J.'s from G&G

Too cute to resist

The kids all opened their presents from G&G Reese. They were SO excited!

The Boys

2010-12-23T17:31:00.001-07:00

The kids love it when I give Luke a bottle and they get to help feed him! Wow. 4 boys in our family!
Enjoying his warm bath!

Luke is 2 weeks old!

2010-12-22T16:34:00.001-07:00

Luke is already 2 weeks old. Time goes too fast with a new baby! He is still sleeping all the time! He only wakes up to eat. When I took him in for his 2 week he weighed 6lbs. 6oz. So he is almost back up to his birth weight. He is so much fun! He is such a cuddly baby. I could hold him all day long. Here he is in his Christmas suit on his 2 week Birthday.

Sledding Fun

2010-12-21T16:14:00.003-07:00

We have had a fun break being out of school. We have gone bowling, to movies, to kangaroo zoo, to boondocks and played laser tag. We have also had snow a few days! The Tuesday before Christmas we got lots of snow and had our cousins over to sled on the hill by our house. Grandpa and Grandma brought Kneaders in for lunch and the kids had SO much fun playing outside in the snow. They played outside forever!

Austin is a stinker and I cannot get him to go out in the snow! He always chooses to stay in. He and Blake had lots of fun playing inside. Austin has been dying to get a picture of he and Luke in their reindeer ears!

December Fun

2010-12-17T15:35:00.000-07:00

Mike and Parker went skiing on Saturday (11th). They went up to Alta and Parker did great! They went up with Steve and Jackson for an afternoon ski. We are so glad Parker is getting the hang of this after a couple rough ski trips 2 years ago! No screaming and tears is awesome! Mike took some fun video that I cannot figure out how to post, stay tuned. Austin had a sing along at his preschool. He wore these cute ears and sang three Christmas songs. In Rudolph Austin held up a sign at the part where you would normally say (like Monopoly) and Austin yelled out "like duck duck goose." It was darling! Luke and I went and watched his little performance. Then they opened $1 gifts from each other and got yummy treats.
Lizzy and Parker had a sing along at their school. Grandpa Simmons came with us to watch and Grandma Simmons stayed home with Luke (too many germs at the school for such a little guy). Each grade sang two songs. Lizzy and Parker did great. The whole sing along was fun and fun to hear so many Christmas songs.

Luke's first week home

2010-12-14T22:16:00.001-07:00

When we left the hospital Luke weighed 6 lbs. 1 oz. Lizzy could not wait to put him into his stocking! We considered hanging it from the fireplace but decided against it.

Grandpa and Grandma went to church with Mike and the kids on Sunday.

Here are the Becker kids when they came to meet Luke.

Lydia and Luke... 5 months apart

The Tall's came to meet Luke...

My Mom and the kids decorated our car and the house the day we came home from the hospital.

Lizzy loves helping with bath time and just about everything else too!

Luke's Birth Announcement

2010-12-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

Luke 5 days old!

2010-12-13T21:52:00.002-07:00

Bella Baby Pictures

2010-12-10T08:11:00.001-07:00

These pictures were taken our last day in the hospital by Bella Baby....

Luke makes 6!

2010-12-08T15:49:00.001-07:00

Wednesday at 12:10 my water broke! I was at home on the computer and Austin was in the bathtub. I instantly called Mike and within minutes he was on his way home to get me. If I had to do it over again I would have met Mike somewhere on the freeway, but I still was not in pain and thought I had a bit of time. So I bathed Austin and packed my bag and the babies bag. Then Julie came and picked us up and we met Mike at Smiths. By the time we got to Alta View at 1:25 I was in a lot of pain! I cried at the reception desk and they instantly put me in a room and in a robe. I was dilated to a 3. The nurse asked me TONS of questions very slowly and then drew my blood. She said I could not get an epidural until my blood work was back. It was now 2:00. I asked her how long on the blood work and told her I was DESPERATE for my epidural. She said 20 minutes. After 30 LONG minutes of waiting my new nurse came in. I liked her SO much better! I told her I needed the epidural NOW. I had already sent Mike into the hall in search of help. She called the anesthesiologist and asked him to give it to me before my blood work returned. He agreed!!!! He was my absolute knight in shining armour. He had the needle in my back within 5 minutes and it instantly cut my next contraction in half with the pain! By the time I rolled on the other side I didn't feel my next one. I went from a 3 to an 8 in about an hour. It was now 3:00 and life was good. The nurse said when I felt pressure call her in and we will have a baby! After about 20 minutes I had a lot of pressure and they called Dr. Larsen down. Three pushes later there was our little Luke! My epidural was so great I really had no pain in the delivery! I had them bring in a mirror so I could see Luke being born. What a miracle! He was 3 weeks early and so healthy! He was born at 3:37 weighing in at 6lbs. 9oz. and 18 1/2 inches long. Lizzy's exact size. He feels so small to hold. We are so excited he came early and now we get to enjoy the month of December with him! A Christmas baby has brought such an amazing Spirit into our house. He really is the best gift we could have all asked for! Here are pictures from our stay in the hospital. We stayed for 2 nights. The first night Mike spent at home with the kids since Lizzy had a performance at School on Thursday morning. Then he stayed at the hospital with Luke and I on Thursday night and Grandma Gayle stayed the night with the kids. We LOVED Alta View. Our nurses were wonderful! My favorites were Jennifer and the two Julie's. They were so friendly and nice. One night my nurse Julie held Luke for almost 3 hours so I could sleep. I think that is the only time in 11 days that he has stayed awake that long! On Thursday night we got a special dinner with martinelli's and candles. It really was a great hospital. We came home Friday afternoon from the hospital.

Here I am between contractions in our labor and delivery room. During one contraction I was freaking out and turned the TV on by accident. The noise of it made me want to jump through the roof (this one was towards the end, so it was a GOOD one). Mike was finally able to figure out how to turn it off. Jennifer was my delivery nurse. No epidural yet, very fake smile :) Little Luke, 6lbs. 9oz. Mike cut the chord and they said it was a really short chord.

Dr. Larsen with Luke. I really liked him! Very down to earth. So great through my whole pregnancy.

This picture was just a few minutes after Luke was born.

Brand new with the goop in the eyes!

The kids came right after school to meet Luke with Aunt Julie and Grandma and Grandpa Simmons. They came while we were still in the delivery room. We moved rooms while they were visiting.

First picture of 4 kids! Glad Austin was enjoying his bottle caps.

They were all so excited to meet their new brother!

I cannot get enough of this little guy!

The kids got these reindeer ears on a bear they built for Luke. They were thrilled to see they fit Luke as well as the bear.

Luke's first bath!Luke's 2nd Bath....

Our special dinner...(chicken cordon blue and steak)

Time to go home! Luke wore his monkey outfit home. Even the newborn clothes are too big on him.

Here are those who came to take a peek at Luke in the hospital...

Grandpa Reese

Grandma Gayle

Grandpa and Grandma Simmons

Uncle Johnny and Aunt Jen

Aunt Julie

Uncle Paul and Aunt Chera

Steve-O

Amberley

Jared and Alison

Christian and Malori

Christmas Card 2010

2010-12-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

Live Nativity and Girl's Party

2010-12-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

On Monday night (the 5th) for FHE we went to a Live Nativity with the Newmans, Petersons and Hardins. It was in Alpine. We walked through a few different barns that were like walking through Bethlehem City. The last barn was walking through the Manger Scene. They had carolers up on a balcony singing. Then at the end they serve you hot cocoa. It wasn't even that cold. We were grateful! On our way up the path we ran into the Beckers! Fun FHE!

On Tuesday night I went to a HS Girls Christmas Party. We had lots of yummy treats and a gift exchange. I was having a lot of contractions for about 2 hours before I left for the party. I was questioning if I should go or not. But they eventually stopped and nothing happened...that is until the next day! It was a fun party. Always so fun to see the girls!

Ugly Sweater Party

2010-12-04T15:42:00.002-07:00

We threw an ugly sweater party with our neighbors. It was so much fun! We started out with dinner. Then we had a white elephant gift exchange. Very entertaining. Mike and I ended up with the book "Fartsy Clause" given by the Bullingtons. Our kids went crazy over it! There were some really funny gifts (dancing pole, President Obama chia pet, mug with a picture of the couple giving it inside). Then we had dessert and ended up chatting until 11:30.

Group Shot: Some great sweaters!

Jon came with an advent calendar on his sweater. So Janae and I filled it with candy canes. (He came in 2nd place!) Four days before Luke was born!The Norton's came late. Dave hit a boulder on the freeway. If they hadn't been late I think he would have won!
Which sweatshirt is uglier? I have to go with the red one.

And the prizes go to..........................................................

BEST couples sweaters....

Fairbanks!

Best Male sweater.....
Brandon Newman!

Best Female Sweater......
Emily Jensen!

Santa!

2010-12-03T18:27:00.001-07:00

We had our ward Christmas Party on Friday night. It was fun and Santa came at the end! The kids all dressed up in Nativity clothes and sang a few Christmas songs for the ward.

Happy Birthday Mike

2010-11-30T11:53:00.002-07:00

Mike celebrated the big 3-4! We had a great day. Austin and I went to Coherex with a couple of cakes and ice cream. Austin was so shy he would not say a word to anyone at Mike's work. That night we had the McCleans and Max and Claudia over for Carne Asada. Claudia made the red velvet cake. All in all it was a great Birthday. Then on Wednesday night we met my family at the Pizza Pie Cafe to celebrate Mike and Josh's Birthdays. It was the perfect place to go with all of the kids.

Cabin fun

2010-11-26T11:45:00.002-07:00

The day after Thanksgiving we headed up to the cabin with the Family. On our way up we stopped in Kamas at the Recreation Center and swam. It was such a fun pool with a big slide, spraying slides and a high dive. The kids loved it! Then we headed up to the cabin and snowmobiled in. We had lots of fun eating junk, playing games and watching movies Friday night. The kids had so much fun sledding and playing in the snow on Saturday.

Don't get your tongues stuck!!!

We headed home after the BYU vs. Utah game on Saturday.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T11:39:00.002-07:00

We had a great Thanksgiving with the Simmons this year. It was so fun to spend it in their brand new home! The food was amazing and the dessert was wonderful. So fun to live by family. It was a great day.

Turkey Cookies

2010-11-24T11:34:00.002-07:00

It was a really stormy night and we decided to make Thanksgiving Turkey cookies and deliver them to the neighbors. We had so much fun cutting out feathers and decorating our cookies. Mike and Parker delivered by sled. I was glad the cookies all made it in one piece. They had a lot of fun delivering and sliding down the hills of our neighborhood.

Luke's Baby Shower

2010-11-16T11:30:00.002-07:00

My cute neighbors would not take no for an answer and threw me a baby shower. We met at Kneaders and had a fun girls night out. We love the area that we moved to. We are surrounded by wonderful people.

Top row (Shantel, Janae, Kami, Me, Sarina, Janette, Misty)

Bottom Row (Jen, Lisa, Alison)

Luke will be one stylin baby!

Lizzy Piano Recital

2010-11-06T16:38:00.005-06:00

Lizzy started with a new piano teacher in Alpine. Her new teacher is Carla Pratt. She really likes her and has enjoyed her lessons. She had her first recital in November.

Halloween Dinner

2010-10-31T14:41:00.007-06:00

On Sunday night Jen had the family over for Halloween Dinner. Her house was spooky and so was her whole family. Here are ALL of the Reese Grandchildren! (2 more on their way!) Paul and Chera just found out they are having a boy!Check out those creepy looking Talls!Uncle Paul and the kids looking at Jen's spooky punch.
Jen had every one's attention as she mixed the "witches brew."

The spooky jello we brought.

Halloween Fun

2010-10-30T14:03:00.000-06:00

On Friday Lizzy and Parker had their Costume parade at school. Austin and I loved watching the whole school march by in their costumes. Here is a picture of Lizzy and Parker right before school.

I was in charge of Lizzy's Halloween party at school. We had 4 stations from food to crafts. It was so much fun. Here is Lizzy with her teacher Miss Easley.

I had all the Mom's dress up like witches.

After school each of the kids got to invite a friend over to make Halloween sugar cookies. Lizzy had Payton, Parker had Xander, and Austin had Steen. It was such a nice day (after getting 4 inches of snow a few days before) and all the kids played out on the swing set after making their cookies.
On Saturday we went to the "Trunk or Treat" around the park. Max and Claudia came with us to help hand out candy. Mike was in France this weekend (we were VERY sad he had to miss Halloween). We all had umbrellas since there was some good rain! Austin was ready to be done once we made it all the way around. Parker on the other hand went a second time around and did not care that it was raining. Our little Luigi could have gone all night. We came home and had some soup and cookies. Then Parker and Grandma ventured out to do some trick or treating. Austin was done, and Lizzy loved handing out candy to trick or treaters.

Pregnancy Stages

2010-10-30T09:21:00.004-06:00

Here I am right at the beginning (4-24)

4 months along (7-5)

7 months along (10-10)

8 Months Along (11/21)

Ghoul's Night Out

2010-10-28T15:02:00.001-06:00

Jen did a Witches night "Ghoul's night out." I went a little crazy with the curly wig and green eyeshadow. I think I look a bit freaky in the pictures. It was such a fun night! Jen's house was decked out spooky and the food was yummy. It is always fun to get together with the other witches! Sisters Picture
Group Shot:
Top row (Wendy, Jen Reese and Jen Tall)
Bottom Row (Julie, Misty, Lisanne, Chera, Lydia, and me)

Hee Haw Farms

2010-10-25T14:38:00.001-06:00

On Monday night we did FHE at Hee Haw Farms at Thanksgiving Point. We had attempted to come on Saturday but it started raining right when we got there. So on Saturday the kids each got to choose a pumpkin from the farm. Lizzy and Parker both chose huge ones and Austin chose a tiny one for 50 cents. He never regretted it, and loved it! He even carved his baby pumpkin. Back to Monday night. There was tons to do, and the kids had a blast! It was very cold and I am glad they had fires going. We only did one side of the corn maze, Austin and I were too cold to do the other. It was kind of nice to be here with no stroller and 3 kids big enough to play on their own. Not for long though! We watched pigs race, rode big tricycles, did duck races (Lizzy could have done this all day long), jumped on a cool trampoline, rode the cow train twice, shot corn and pumpkins out of cannons, played in a huge corn room, and did the corn maze. We met Mike right after school. It was so nice after a cold pumpkin patch to come home to warm soup and hot cocoa! A very good Monday night.

Pumpkin Carving

2010-10-24T14:53:00.001-06:00

On Sunday night we carved our pumpkins. Austin's is the tiny one. That is what he wanted. We still put a little candle in his too. He started out with a face, but we ended up carving it. We baked the seeds and they were yummy!