D A I N E S ~ F A M I L Y

Summer

2010-09-06T13:57:00.013-06:00

This summer I drove to Idaho for the month of July and spent time there with my parents (hooray! home from their mission in Africa) and siblings. It was always a big group wherever we went, but we had so much fun.

Sophie spent the first week with Grandma Susan in Boise...her first solo flight which she handled amazingly well, as told by the flight attendant!)

We did many fun activities, including hiking, corn hole (beanbag toss-type of game), fixing food, doing dishes, shopping, playing with cousins, playgrounds, movies, snacks, card games, Nintendo, talking, and swimming.

In Rexburg, climbing the "R" mountain:

It was so beautiful to look over the Snake River Valley from the top. Lucy was my climbing partner...pretty good balance for a three-year-old! Riley was fearless and enjoyed going with the big kids on a longer hike to the front of the butte where the "R" is painted.

One of the highlights of the kids' visit was earning money from Grandpa Bill! After an extra-long and harsh winter, the mice population in the yard boomed! There were many mouse holes in the yard and Grandpa set the grandkids up with dirt and shovels/cups/trowel...whatever worked to fill those nasty holes...so gross, I know! Sometimes, ya' gotta do what ya' gotta do!

Here, collecting their day's salary! (each in an individual plastic baggie!) Thanks Grandpa...for the constructive cooperation!

One of the afternoons everyone gathered at the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. The grandkids 12 yrs old and older went inside for a neat baptism session, while the younger kids explored the Visitor's Center and the temple grounds, then walked to a nearby park to play. Grandma Genie treated them all to a Happy Meal from McDonald's! Bonus! (Our ever-smart Grandma Genie, she knows how to win a kid's heart!)

Nikolia Ranch

The 24th of July was one of the best ever! We met at the ranch to spend the day. What a perfect day, blue skies, no clouds, shining sun, no cell phone coverage or TV, and nobody else for miles. My sisters Crystal and Suzanne had prepared a twist to the typical Pioneer Trek. The older cousins had a type of scavenger hunt on 4-wheelers, while the younger cousins had a treasure hunt around the pond area. It was so creative, complete with bandanas, pioneer bonnets, horehound candy, lap harp, sack race, ancestor matching games, scriptures, and a real handcart ride (for the smallest ones!)

Lucy and cousin Paige posing by the horses, hoping for a ride!

Fishing and throwing rocks...fun for every kid!

Me and my little girls.

The beginning of the pioneer treasure hunt...all adorned in his/her own bonnet/bandana.

Lucy and cousin Lydia...

A trip to the ranch is not complete without a bit of 4-wheeling fun! There might have been a mud puddle or two that got some action. Bryce and nephews Michael and Nathan.

Happy Birthday Michael!

Before our planned reunion time with Michael, we were able to meet up in Boise for his Grandma's funeral. It just so happened that it was Michael's birthday, too! What a great thing to be together with family and to have Michael there with us! We had cake and presents and enjoyed the 2 days together.

Taylor Family Reunion

Michael flew back to Idaho Falls the next week for our Taylor reunion. We had a stellar talent show with magic, wrestling, story telling, music, ...you name it! The night was topped off with a video my brother Russ had put together for a tribute to our parents. It included many of the pictures each of us had taken on our individual trips to Africa to visit them on their mission. We love our parents! They did an excellent job, served well and loved the people and countryside of Kenya/Tanzania. Welcome Home!

Watching a talent performance:

We spent a day at Lava Hot Springs, swimming, picnicking, visiting, playing, eating...

such a superb group of people, I have to say! (a bit biased as well!)

Table Mountain (Tablerock) Hike

The last day in Idaho Falls, many of us joined my sister, Emilee (who turned 40 this year) on her birthday hike to Table Mountain. It was a strenuous, yet absolutely beautiful hike! I remember hiking this same hike as a young woman at girl's camp. (it was much longer this time!) I really enjoyed being with four of my sisters, a brother-in-law, and several nephews. What a memory!

We were hiking at the best time of year! The wild flowers were amazingly brilliant and blossoming everywhere!

Group photo (minus Jake...taking the photo):

Here's Jake with my sister, Julie. Jake just left for his mission in Australia this past week.

Beauty of a pose here! But I made it! Behind my left ear is Table Mountain with the Grand Tetons in the far background. So magnificent! There were times when I wanted to give up and turn around! (15 miles...about 1000 ft altitude difference) For this old mom, it was a challenge, but I'm glad I stuck with it and made it to the top. Thanks to our outstanding group who didn't give-up on me either!

My nephew, Jake, carried a watermelon ALL THE WAY to the top so we could all enjoy the deliciousness of it while looking at the Grand! Nice work! (He even brought a melon baller...what a thoughtful kid!) The rind made it's debut in movie making history...perhaps the first to be launched from the top of the table!

Our entire group + watermelon. Don't we look great! Happy 40th Birthday, Emilee! (Julie says she's going to choose a cruise for her 40th!)

Lucy turns 3...happily! June 26th 2010

2010-08-20T17:45:00.011-06:00

Question: Who wakes up very early in the morning on her birthday and is extremely smiley ALL day long?

Answer: Lucy!

Loving her birthday and sharing gifts with Sophie and Riley. They all got a headlamp for camping. (maybe not such a grand idea)But they LOVED them and still use them around the house...I just wish they'd turn them off once in a while, or at least not look directly at me when they're talking to me with their lamps on!

Uncle Brad was visiting us from Vermont...a special treat for Lucy! We celebrated at Texas Road House for dinner. (Lucy loves the peanuts!)

At home for cake and ice cream. Lucy requested a "pink beanbag cake"...where she got that idea, I'll never know! So, we creatively obliged. Lucky and comfy George!

Happy Birthday, Lucy. You are our sunshine and we love you!

Ballet Recital

2010-08-20T17:45:00.008-06:00

Sophie and Lucy were both included in their ballet recital this summer. It was fun to see them both be excited about dancing and not even be nervous about performing!

The costumes were amazing ( not homemade! ) and both girls absolutely LOVED getting ready for the performances with real make-up!

Here's Lucy waiting for her turn to go on stage. She danced with her class to the song "You Are My Sunshine".

Lucy taking a chance to be in the limelight! (during dress-rehearsal, she ran up on stage and twirled for us...all her own idea! Glad I snapped this picture when I did before she ran back to her seat!)

Sophie was part of the ballet, "Alice in Wonderland." She had the glorious role of one of the playing cards in the Queen of Hearts' Court. Well done, Sophie!

Posing for a picture while waiting to lead her fellow "cards" to their positions.

Inbetween the early and the later performances we went with some of Sophie's friends to get a bite to eat. Quite little ladies, they all were!

Sophie still likes dancing, so we'll see how this next year goes.

S O P H I E...great to be 8!

2010-05-19T15:25:00.005-06:00

She's had a birthday...shout hooray!

Sophie couldn't have been looking more forward to a birthday more than she was this one...finally eight years old!

(request:dark chocolate cake with white frosting...and horses on top!)

With the birthday hat balanced on her head, Sophie shows her fancy moves with her new hulahoop, a gift from Lucy.

And turning eight means...being baptized! A very exciting a fabulous day. Sophie was baptized by her daddy, Michael on June 5th, 2010...just twenty-odd years to the date of when I (her mom) was baptized.

Thanks, Gma and Gpa Daines for making the trip to be there.

And my two sweet sisters, Julie and Suzanne.

We love you, Sophie! We're all proud of you and the choices you make to be happy!

Seattle

2010-05-07T17:42:00.010-06:00

We flew to Seattle to visit Michael's brother, Brian, and family. They are living there while completing their Orthopaedics Residency Program. Only one year left! None of our children had ever seen each other (don't know how we let that happen!) It was fun to see the kids get to know each other and have fun playing with cousins!

Here on our first day, hanging out before heading out! Sophie, Cole, Riley and Sam. (Lucy hiding behind the couch!)

We went here first...

...for some delicious fish and chips (better than we tasted in England, actually!) Uncle Gordon finished up a conference in Seattle and met up with us here. One of these days our children will get all of their uncles and aunts sorted out. Still confusion in this area! It was fun to be all together...more Daines members with us than not! And finally, hot chocolate hit the spot for the cool weather!

Feeding the seagulls our leftover french fries. The gulls really live for this kind of fast food!

Enjoying the aquarium...measuring up to the inhabitants!

Loving all the different kinds of fish...especially the sharks~although not as many seen as hoped!

Celebrating Brian's birthday/matching for fellowship on a night out without kids...ahhh, yummy dinner at Joey's and a lighthearted time at the arcade. Here, Michael and Carly in rare form, shooting it out on safari mode!

We also enjoyed a trip to the science museum, of course the butterfly exhibit is always a highlight! This little beauty showed us it's colors and pleased us all, especially our zebra-lover, Riley (pictured: zebra longwing butterfly) The kids loved the robots, dinosaurs, bones, tide pool, strength testing, playground, bugs, and the naked mole rats!

Lucy stretching out in a dinosaur footprint.

Time out for just Michael and I...yummy little French cafe and Pike's Market. Thanks, Carly for braving the masses for a few hours! Thanks, Michael for a much-craved treat, and the pleasure of spending time with just you!

IMAX showing of "How To Train Your Dragon" ~ so cute and very fun with the glasses! Each of the kids brought their little dragons with them to watch the movie.

What a crew! Glad we left the glasses there! And...we've hatched a new breed of dragon lovers!

Last but not least, on the day we left for home, Riley pulled out his 2nd tooth! So brave! I love the little lisp that comes from such a daring task.

Thanks, Carly and Brian for hosting us and our little brood of monkeys! We love hanging with you guys and look forward to many more occassions soon!

Running into Trouble

2010-04-29T10:22:00.009-06:00

April 17, 2010. SALT LAKE CITY. Half-Marathon.

It began as peer pressure from my younger sister, Julie. And turned into a really good thing for Michael and I to get our booties moving and start the ever-ongoing quest to shape up our health. We began training in February, and despite a few falls off the wagon (how can you visit New Orleans and not enjoy the good food?), we triumphantly crossed the finish line, and we weren't last. It was a GREAT experience. So much so, that we've long forgotten the pain and soreness, and are anticipating other races to enter ...hoping to keep the momentum going. Yes, I think we're running into a bit of trouble! Wish us luck!

Before the race...the sun just beginning to come up. The lines for the bathroom (honey pots) extremely long. Pre-race jitters.

At the end...with smiles!

January - March 2010

2009-10-22T16:45:00.033-06:00

January 2010

Happy New Year!

Michael started the year off with a hunting trip with his good hinting buddy , Jared Snarr, in Idaho...looks very successful!

He also was able to fly to Glendale, AZ with his dad, to attend the Tostitos, Fiesta Bowl and support the Boise State Broncos! Looking good in Orange and Blue, boys! They truly had the best time, just the two of them, no wives to be looking over their shoulders! Live it up!

February 2010

Lucy's hot new wheels!

Sledding with friends at San Isabel National Forrest. No broken bones!

Riley turned 6 the end of February and requested his birthday dinner at "Joe's Crab Shack". Seriously, our kids take after Michael in this department, because all 3 of them absolutely LOVE crab...and most seafood. (I'm still warming up to salmon and shrimp.)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RILEY! We sure love you!

March 2010

At our favorite restaurant (everybody eats well and likes to be there!) Texas Roadhouse. Here Sophie sitting pretty on the lobby saddle...next to the big bin of peanuts. Our kids beg to go back!

Coaching Sophie on how to use the camera. Michael and I as her subject.

Just look at that grin! Michael loves to fish and eventhough it was somewhat warm this day...he has been known to fish in sub-zero temperatures! Nice trout, Michael!

Ahhh! Grandparents. We love them!

A quick meeting in SLC at the Temple Square Grounds.

Little Lucy and HER "Bam-pa"

Our group, gathered by the fountain. What a fun Sunday morning!

New Orleans

Michael and I flew to New Orleans for the annual Orthopaedic Academy Meeting. The kids were enjoying themselves at their cousins in Springville and we relaxed in the Big Easy! We had fun with Michael's parents and brother, Brian, also attending the meeting. Some highlights were all the wonderful restaurants, the cajun/creole cooking class, a make-over, the beignets and hot chocolate, a swamp boat ride, a tour of the city, meeting up with the U of Iowa Alumni, and listening to Original Jazz at Preservation Hall. So much fun!

Self-portraits right before the swamp boat ride.

The whole gang. Such fun people!

I loved the beautiful vegetation in the swamp area. This is a tree covered with Spanish Moss. It looked even more enchanting in the setting sunlight.

This little alligator is named Marshmallow. She liked to pose for Michael and give him a big smile! We all took turns holding this tiny alligator, but saw some real huge ones lurking in the waters as we passed!

The famous beignets...covered in powdered sugar and a tasty cup of cocoa to finish it of perfectly! We went here twice!

At the Iowa Alumni reception, here with Dr. Marsh. We had fun discussing our England memories with him and his wife (are you reading this?) So much has happened and changed in the short time since we had left residency! Fun to reconnect.

~~~~~~

Random lunch photo during Spring Break. Sophie has braids in her hair, so she could have "Hermione Hair" the next day. She is currently reading the Harry Potter series and is totally hooked! The books are almost bigger than she is! Way to go, Sophie!

Riley lost his very first tooth! We had been at a school fundraiser and when we had arrived home, Riley gave it a good yank...Voila! So brave, too!

September - December 2009

2009-10-22T16:45:00.032-06:00

September 2009

We found life back in the USA to be very pleasant...especially hanging out with friends and family again! But the respite was short-lived as we had to pack up everything and make our way to our new home, Pueblo, CO... A place to stay settled for hopefully a long while.

Excited to get on yet another airplane! Saying goodbye to Aunt Suzanne.

Sophie and Riley's first day of school in our new town, making new friends.

Saturday outings exploring where we live. A nearby pond stocked with fish. Kids ONLY! Our kids liked that part! Here is Sophie catching one of her first fish by herself.

And Riley, acting quite natural around fish. Daddy's so proud!

ANNUAL PUEBLO CHILE AND FRIJOLE FESTIVAL ...lots of fun and games, good food, and roasted chiles!

OCTOBER 2009

Duck season found three happy hunting partners! Lucy can hardly wait to get taller so she can go, too!

My grandmother passed away in early October. She was an exceptional lady, living a full 93 years. All of my own siblings were able to make it back to Idaho Falls for the funeral. It was a special time to all be together and to remember our Grandma.

Harvesting time and fall are some of my favorite times of the year. We took an afternoon to explore our neighborhood pumpkin patches and pick the lucky winners to be carved!

Sophie and Riley learning how to dig out the innards...their first time going solo! They did a great job and our jack-o-lanterns didn't even get smashed this year! (It must have been the ominous threat written by Sophie and placed next to her pumpkin on the front porch!)

Ahhh, in costume, finally! Lucy as a puppy, Sophie as a cowgirl, and Riley as a sweet-toothed pirate! The kids cashed in on plenty of loot...and we had to turn of our lights when our candy stash was exhausted very early in the evening! (Have to give the kiddos credit for volunteering to give away their recently acquired candy to our own trick-or-treaters!)

NOVEMBER 2009

Family Home Evening kicked off our month of gratitude. All throughout the month we all were able to write on a leaf something specific to be thankful for and attach it to our tree. I love this tradition borrowed from my sister Camille's family! The kids love, love, love it, too!

Michael's parents spent the Thanksgiving holiday with us in our NEW house! Hooray. We entered us all in the 1st annual "Turkey Trot" sponsored by our YMCA. It was a great start to the day, getting us all moving and enjoying the beautiful fall morning!

Our two turkeys ... best of friends (usually)

The wonderful feast of food. Our first one in this house. mmmmm!

A little snow can't hurt! Lucy, still in her PJ's, waiting for the bus to pick up Riley and Sophie. We've found that snow doesn't last very long around here. Gotta play in it while it stays!

DECEMBER 2009

We drove one afternoon to Denver to meet Aunt Cindy and Cousin Katie at the Denver zoo. It was odd to be outside hardly bundled up in the middle of December! We loved seeing the animals, many of which we had seen in Africa. Good Memories!

Not too many photos taken of Chirstmas morning, but the famous Pickle tradition still lives on!

Yummy omelettes for breakfast. Another living tradition...Michael's the best chef, ever!

After an early morning of presents, sweets, and excitement (and hospital rounds/on-call duties for Michael), the typical crash on the couch...no words needed.We went ahead and got outfitted with our very own boots...even little ones for Lucy! Yep, we're here to stay! It's been a wild, wild, year. Happy 2009!

August

2009-10-22T16:44:00.012-06:00

August was full of finding time to do all we could possible fit in, before leaving England. We drove to Dover, took the ferry to France and enjoyed a few days in Caen and Normandy, then boarded a train bound for Paris...an absolute highlight of our vacation!

Ferry to France with the famous white cliffs of Dover in the background.

Enjoying really good French food in the beautiful evening air at this quaint cafe.

Family time at the beaches of Normandy after visiting monuments and cemetaries.

Waiting for our train to Paris. (Wish we knew more of the French language!)

One of our first views of the Eiffel Tower.

Victoriously posing at the top of the Eiffel Tower...after enduring LOOOONG lines and the sticky heat of summer! Worth it!

Outside the Louvre museum.

The famous inverted pyramid.

Passing the time whilst their parents took sooo long to look at all the amazing art.

When we returned to Oxford we only had 2 days before leaving England. After the packers/movers finished at our little home, we visited city centre once more...our favorite pasty place (pretending to be hungry pirates!) among other favorite stops.

and a last stop at the fun parks and playgrounds in our neighborhood.

Good Bye, Oxford! We'll see you again sometime!

Much love,

the Daines Family

July

2009-10-22T10:13:00.012-06:00

Riley and I spent a Saturday by ourselves in London. We loved it all...The Oxford Tube ride into London, chasing pigeons, crossing bridges,walking and walking, the rain, counting clocks, ice cream, acquiring Riley's "Simba", and the highlight was an afternoon performance of The Lion King. Riley loved the first part especially, but got a little tired by the end. It was an incredible show...music, costumes, and having each other for company!

July 17th was the last day of school. Sophie, Dylanie (friend) and Riley in front of their Primary School, Orchard Meadows. I'm so proud of them all for making friends, adapting so well to a different system, and for being so clever!

We had all of their friends and classmates/teachers sign a T-shirt for each of them to have a fun keepsake of their time spent in school in England. They still love to wear them!

By pure accident and happy mistake, My sister Crystal and husband Pat had a layover at London Heathrow airport for about 8 hours. They were on their first leg of their journey to visit my parents in Africa. We picked them up from the airport and drove them back to Oxford to our house where they could take a shower, have a bit of lunch, sleep a tiny bit, and see our neighborhood. Alright, so it probably wasn't totally accidental...thank goodness for tender mercies! We loved the surprise vist and seeing family...even if it was for just a short time.

Leave it to Michael to find a honey hole in England to fish! He paired up with fellowsportsman, Rob, and spent the day following his 2nd love...fishing! (He assures me that I am still #1!) Beautiful scenery, weather, and fish!

Michael's supervising professor treated us to a week in his holiday home in Scotland. The next few pictures are from our time spent up north. We absolutely loved it!

Our first part of the journey was to Preston, England where we were able to each attend a session in the Preston Temple. We also walked the grounds and visited the distribution center there...such a treat!

The heather was just beginning to bloom when we arrived in Braemar, Scotland. And we lucked out with very agreeable weather! It was fun to walk around the small village and to get a taste of the local lifestyle. We took a few daytrips, hiked, and watched an authentic Highland dance performance!

What a memorable birthday for Michael. We celebrated his 34th birthday while visiting Braemar. He was surprised and happy with the gifts we had packed with us to give him. Definite highlights were: a yummy venison dinner, relaxing in front of the fireplace, late nights with "Jack Bauer," walks in the woods, and spotting red deer and other wildlife in the back woods.

Just a few hours away was Loch Ness. It was such a beautiful drive! We went to the far western side of the Loch to a castle, Urquhart Castle, that had been initially built in the early 1200's. It passed back and forth from clans and the crown and was ultimately destroyed by it's protectors to avoid becoming a stronghold for threatening Jacobites. Very interesting history. Largely left in ruins, yet some parts restored. And talk about location! It is strategically situated on a piece of land jutting out into Loch Ness. The views are so amazing! Looking for Nessie!

On our way home we stopped to explore two more castles, Stirling Castle and Edinburgh Castle. Being there almost made me want to have lived in the medieval time period. I think Stirling Castle was my favorite. I especially liked watching the restoration process for a number of tapestries...the Hunt of the Unicorn series. Michael and I had enjoyed these unrestored tapestries in The Cloisters museum close to our first apartment in NYC.

Very near the border between Scotland and England is Hadrian's wall. This represents the northern extent of the Roman empire in Britain...around 122 AD! So much history on this vacation! We walked along the wall and enjoyed a break from the car! You can see how it stretches out behind Sophie and Riley, for miles and miles! I was surprised at how thick the wall was ...4-5 feet in some places.

June

2009-10-22T10:12:00.005-06:00

Michael's youngest brother graduated from Medical school at University of Washington in Seattle. Michael was able to be there to celebrate with all the Daines extended family except for us in England. They especially all enjoyed time with just the brothers and parents at dinner out and a round of golf.

My sister Emilee came to visit from Philadelphia. It was a relaxing, yet packed trip! I especially liked having her all to myself during our daytrip to London. We also visited Bath and enjoyed a Jane Austen type atmosphere. (Riley was more than willing to miss a day of school for this outing...Sophie politely declined.)

Here is a family photo inside the grounds of the Salisbury Cathedral. It also houses an original copy of the Magna Carta, and the oldest working clock. It's spire is one of the tallest in all of England. It was beautiful.

Not far away is the historic Stonehenge. This was our 3rd time visiting, but Em's 1st. It really never disappoints!

We also visited C. S. Lewis's home and the nature preserve behind it. (This was less than 3 miles from where we lived in Oxford) Couldn't pass up the opportunity to snap a picture of our "Lucy" in the inspirational "Narnia"!

There's a few Harry Potter sights not far from us either. Here, Sophie poses in the Hogwart's dining hall (at least the hall that the movie set was patterned after!)

Father's Day bike ride...we had borrowed a child bike seat for the last few months we were in England...so this meant freedom for me from the bike trailer!

A special daddy-daughter date for Sophie and Michael. A day in London with a matinee performance of WICKED at the London Apollo Victoria Theatre! Pretty sure they both liked it!

Close to the end of the school year and the annual field day. Sophie here with some classmates, showing off her prized stickers...1st, 2nd, and 3rd places! Well done, Sophie!

And our littlest celebrated her 2nd birthday! Blowing out the candles was a novelty she'll look forward to for another year! We love little Lucy and her fun and vibrant personality!

where in the world?

2009-10-22T09:18:00.004-06:00

I'm going to give just a brief re-cap of the last few months. Before long the stack of pictures and the list of activities will be so long I would never get around to documenting anything. So, in case you were wondering where in the world we'd been, here's a little taste of our life over the last few months.

Blenheim Palace

2009-06-09T13:32:00.005-06:00

Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill and home of the Duke of Marlborough. Beautiful grounds, buildings, and a sunny day!

We have year passes here, now! Too bad we didn't think of that before this excursion. Look what we have been missing these last 9 months! We'll have to make up for lost time in the next 3!

Loving the sunshine!

Bridge behind us was built by "Capability Brown" (what a name, eh?) but never completely finished.

Such a fun time in this maze. Beautiful and so well kept! We also enjoyed playing giant checkers, lifesize chess, the butterfly house and a human sundial!

The gardens were amazing...and so was getting Lucy to take out her binky all on her own!

A little wrestling on the lawn...daddy dogpile! Looking at buildings and gardens all day is not easy for kids...we ALL needed to release a bit of pent up playfulness!

Playing (and posing) in the long grass.

We went back a second day for a picnic overlooking the lake. Idyllic.

"The Bumps" on the Thames

2009-06-02T10:00:00.005-06:00

"The Bumps" Race is an annual competition both for Cambridge and Oxford intramurals. We set out on a rainy day to see one of the first days. The Thames River flows right through Oxford and not too far from where we live. The main objective of the race is to "bump" the boat in front of you before the boat behind bumps you! Each college has a boat, with eight rowers plus a cox (who both steers and calls out direction for the backward facing rowers). They line up in single file in the narrow river with one and a half boat length between them. A cannon signals the start and off they go!

A bit windy, too! Yes, both of their umbrellas were blown inside out!

View from the bridge. Boat practicing and rowing to its starting position.

We brought out the camera when the rain subsided. I was lucky to grab Sophie's rain hat to borrow!

In the background is St. Hilda's men's team. Nice headgear, Hildabeasts!

And nice smiles, kids!

Walking alongside the Thames. Right before Lucy fell face down on the muddy path!

Lining up. Women's teams.

Learn more about Oxford rowing and the Bumps race here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumps_race

Gloucester Cheese Rolling

2009-05-28T11:38:00.010-06:00

Memorial Day, 2009. Annual Cheese Rolling Festival.

Cooper's Hill, Gloucester. (pronounced Glaw-ster)

Such random hilarity!

Waiting at the base of the "runway" inbetween races.

A friend made this pretty little buttercup necklace, which Sophie loved...and convinced me to teach her how. Elementary school skills came in handy here!

Barbecue at the top of the hill. Glad that I didn't volunteer to haul the portable grill!

View at the valley...and a very small portion of the incredibly huge crowd for that altitude!

It's tradition to wear costumes and race the cheese down the hill. We saw many varieties...banana man, spiderman x 2, a cow, the mankini-man (try explaining that to a 5-year-old boy!) This celebrant (obviously inebriated!) on the trek back to the car, climbed into the pasture with a few horses. They were confused for just a bit, then figured him out and left him in their dust! We all laughed, but Sophie was angered at the guy for disturbing the horses. And, horse man didn't run so well in his flip flops!

Ahhh, relief! Stand-still traffic vs. at-capacity bladder. Winner= Michael!

Beautiful Bluebells

2009-05-04T02:26:00.009-06:00

We found a lovely little grove of bluebells on our hike. We actually went looking for them. A good friend had told us about them and we were intrigued!

The sun was shinning and it was a beautiful day in and out of the forest. The bluebells did not disappoint!

Our own little bluebell!

Such delicate little flowers.

Amazing! They carpeted the forest floor. They were everywhere!

Sophie practicing her photography with our old camera. Riley's a great subject to capture!

The view from the edge of the forest. Typical English countryside, so pleasant. We all enjoyed hearing the little lambs baaing in the distance.

These fields are so pretty now. It's such a contrast with the green and blue. (I think it is rapeseed?) Is it the farm girl in me that loves the look of these fields? Surely not going to deny it!

May Day Celebration

2009-05-01T14:37:00.007-06:00

Magdalen College choir kicks off May Day at 6am, singing a Latin hymn celebrating the morning. They're at the top of the tower in the distance...I think they must have microphones on! Of course, you'll have to listen carefully, the crowd is full of inebriated college students who can't turn their own volumes down for the event. Oh, and also our own kids...loud, too. They would be tired, but definitely NOT drunk! Thanks for the free balloons! Sophie was determined to get hers in a video/picture...or two!

Magdalen Tower with the choir in its ramparts. With sharp eyes you can make out a head or silhouette. The bridge between us and the tower was closed for the event...to deter college daredevils from leaping from the bridge to the River Cherwell below. Always some kind of injury with that behaviour. The river is only 2-3 feet deep there. (I would have liked to have been a bit closer to the tower.)

My sweetheart amid the growing morning crowd. (As I was focusing the camera on Michael, the couple directly behind just kept looking straight at me. I had to wait a few minutes until they finally looked away and pretended to be talking to each other!) Sorry for the wait, Michael. Lovely smile.

We first arrived at 5:45am and mayhem was already brewing! We soon found ourselves shoulder to shoulder with smokers, drinkers, kilts, tuxedos, bare skin, and a cow.

Trying to get a better view...and where did that cow go?

family fun

2009-04-29T09:32:00.004-06:00

Sample a bit of our craziness from day to day...the following pictures were taken on our recent trip to the USA...most of them in Colorado.

Sophie and Riley body painting at the Children's Museum. I held them each on my shoulders to get to the top part of the screen. They had a lot of fun with this! And no messy clean-up! This is magical art!

At the Art Center, our very own private pottery lesson. First there was a demonstration, then we made our own turtle sculptures...(sorry, turtles, no picture...messy hands!)

No hiding the glee from this face! It's amazing what a little hot air can do! BounceTown became an instant favorite...and we had the place to ourselves. A highlight was being timed to see who could do the obstacle course the quickest. Lucy, unfortunately came in last. (She had to have her "un-quick" mom help her up the wall, etc...I don't even know if I was even supposed to be on the inflatable toys! ...shh, don't tell!)

Early morning in the hotel...Lucy only got 2 of the leftover curlers! Riley luckily had none.

Lucy's favorite toy of the trip...a phone (still in it's proper "talking position"!) I think this picture was right after the BounceTown...all that running around can wear a girl out!

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-29T05:50:00.006-06:00

The purpose of our visit to the States was mainly business...job interviews. But we did find some time to have fun with family. Michael's brother Gordon and his family drove up from Springville, and Brad was finishing up a rotation at the hospital in town. We missed Brian and Carly with their two boys, but enjoyed being together with those of us there.

Easter Saturday we attended the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Hillcrest Country Club. The kids each submitted their coloring page as their entry ticket (nobody from our group won a prize for their coloring, too bad!)

Prior to the hunt they met "The Easter Bunny," sampled cookies, and sipped juice or cocoa. There were three groups in separate locations of the golf course, one from our group made it into all three. We had seven serious egg hunters, but with 100+ contenders, there was some real competition! Our kids collected plenty and then willingly shared the loot with thier cheering parents. Good kids. (But I'll pass on that stepped-on marshmallow bunny!)

Lucy waiting with Grandpa

Feeling victorious after her first egg hunt...finally got the hang of it!

Such a pro at this game!

I think there was a plan of attack from the very beginning!

All of the grandkids with thier lovable grandparents!

Cousins.

Lucy grabbed Grandpa's finger from the beginning...she knew he'd take her to see the candy! (I love this picture!)

Cricket -- the name of the game

2009-04-25T17:10:00.006-06:00

Here are the results of my formal introduction to cricket. Turns out you aren't allowed to 'throw' the ball (ie bend your elbow when 'bowling'). Tough to unlearn 34 years of conditioning!

Here I am trying my hand at Bowling. Not so bad as to choke a dog!

Natalie:

"When I picked Michael up from Worcester College, I asked him how it was...kinda like baseball, right? Nope! Not even close! I had some learning to do!

You can go to the following link to learn a bit more about cricket...just like I did!"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cricket

These are the grounds at Worcester College where we had the game. Pretty cool!

Crossing the Pond

2009-04-25T17:03:00.017-06:00

Our 2 week Spring Break started off in one of these...

Sent Michael wishing that he had one of these...

Was spent trying to keep Lucy occupied here...

And gave us all time to read books and catch up on our writing, right, Sophie?

Crossing "The Pond" with three kids is not an easy task...especially when there are delays, missed connections and an upset stomach involved! Lucy deplaned wrapped in a blanket, compliments of BA! We eventually made it through customs in Chicago, but not before our next flight left. The added bonus of seeing Dallas was unexpected, but we were able to enjoy soft heavenly comforts of American mattresses and a Continental breakfast (wherever that name came from!) Fighting off our own individual helpings of jet lag, we made it to Boise the next day. Ahhh! Transatlantic travel is....hmm!

Glad we made it.

Open-Air Cinema

2009-04-25T17:03:00.007-06:00

Friday night I drove to Basildon Park with my friend, Amy, and we sat in the open air and watched "The Duchess." We met about a dozen other ladies from our church and with all the snacks and munchies we contributed, had a feast while waiting for the sun to go down to begin the showing. There were about a hundred people there with blankets and picnics, but we were by far the most fab group there! Basildon Park is a National Trust site and is known for being the site for films such as Pride and Prejudice, Marie Antionette, and the Duchess...although that last one is purely hearsay. It was a beautiful setting and such a relaxing atmosphere! It did get quite cold and the blankets I had brought weren't exactly quilts, not even warm! We all had on warm hats, gloves, and coats, or some arrangement of all three! Thanks to Ruth for organizing the gathering and for the extra camp chair that I borrowed to keep my patootie warm. Such a fun memory!

Taste of Home

2009-03-09T11:02:00.005-06:00

My friend Amy and I took the plunge and drove the distance to our neighborhood Costco...one hour drive. We strolled in with both our little ones strapped into the large double seater trolley and inhaled all of that glorious storehouse goodness. We didn't rush, rather took our sweet time looking at everything there was to see, remembering all that we used to buy back home. It was a fun stroll down memory lane and we came away with some good deals, too!

Lucas and Lucy hanging out together.

City of B A T H

2009-02-17T14:17:00.005-07:00

We survived half-term! One of the days we drove 2 hours to the city of Bath. We had a great time and enjoyed getting outside in the "warm" air!

We visited the Roman Baths...established around 70BC. They were remarkable! We got to taste the water in the "Pump Room" which wasn't that great...

But we were all willing to give it a try! Sophie thought it looked dirty!

Hanging out listening to an audio tour... catered to our young crowd!

A little Artsy photo shoot.

The master bathroom...haha.

Previous to our Roman Bath House Tour...we watched this entertaining "busker" (street performer) juggle knives while riding a unicycle...which the kids absolutely loved!

Lovely Ionic columns in the city center.

Lucy and her daddy.

The Pulteney Bridge on the river Avon. There are shops all through the bridge. The water was a cool looking green! (Hard to tell from the picture.)

Walking with Lucy...must be nap time. Check out her huge yawn!

Lucy's leash came in handy in situations like this...she got a kick out of it and giggled all the while she was being reeled back in!

We were happy to see the sun for a brief time! Lucy found some ducks on the river to "talk" to!

Our little English girl...complete with artistic bird in flight!

A cool little museum we saw as we were driving around. We didn't get to see all that we wanted...so we will return on another occassion!

Daddy Dog Pile!

2009-02-17T14:15:00.003-07:00

I love this! The kids love this...and jury's out whether or not Michael loves this!

History of Science Museum

2009-02-17T14:01:00.005-07:00

Beautiful stained glass window at the Museum of the History of Science. Yeah, I know, you're saying, what an "exciting" museum! It actually was very cool! Here are a few of our faves:

Fracture Brace for a broken elbow...from over one hundred years ago. Michael enjoyed looking at these more than the rest of us...as well as at some of the early amputation knives and other surgical instruments. Go figure.

Einstein gave a lecture at the University of Oxford and they preserved one of the panels of the blackboard that he wrote on...I like this. It was kinda cool!

We climbed the winding staircase at the Sheldonian Theatre to get this great view of our snowy spires!

The Tale of Despereaux

2009-02-12T08:49:00.007-07:00

We finished reading our book as a family, one or two chapters each night! We read the book, The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo. We picked it up at a bookstore during our Christmas holiday and just last night read the very last chapter! It was a fun book to read and Sophie and Riley enjoyed the story. These are their favorite parts:

Sophie: I liked the whole book because it was exciting, especially when Despereaux was born. We found out that he had big ears and was born with his eyes open! And I want to be a princess some day!

Riley: I liked the whole book, except for the part when Despereaux got sent to the dungeon! It was scary and I didn't like him getting pushed down all those stairs. I think Despereaux is a good hero.

Snow(men) days!

2009-02-09T09:13:00.006-07:00

Who would've thought we'd get to miss school because of too much snow here in Oxford? It was a phenomenon that hardly ever takes place! The first day when school was cancelled the kids were jumping up and down, very excited to play in the snow. We looked out the front window and already, 9am, the street was filling with kids and grown-ups alike, tossing snow, sliding around, laughing, and gathering materials for a snowman! Probably a first for most of them!

We, of course, needed to build a snowman of our own!

The snow was very dense, wet and super for packing! This happy snow guy fashionably wore black licorice for eyebrows, dried apricots for eyes and buttons, and of course, the traditional carrot nose! Gotta love raiding the cupboard!

Lucy sitting, waiting for rescue.

And how about a few lovely Snow Angels!

Although it was very cold, we had fun for quite some time, thankful for the chance to play in the snow...and miss school!

Our 1st DAINES "Read-In"

2009-02-09T08:34:00.004-07:00

Our first ever "Read-In" was so much fun! I can't believe how much the kids really got into it! During lunch, I had told them stories of when I was a kid and how we got to have "read-in's" if we read enough pages to meet our goal...and how much fun they were. We could bring a pillow, snacks, and books, and then we got to read all day at school, even on the floor, or tipping over desks or tables to create a reading space all our own. Of course, Sophie and Riley couldn't wait to try it out themselves, so we made plans to have one of our own that night. After lunch, we made a trip to the Public Library here in Cowley and all chose a few books. Riley had 15, Michael 2, Lucy 2, and Sophie checked-out 6 books. I renewed my book club book, "My Name Is Asher Lev"...I'm still getting through it! We then made our way to the grocery store and all picked out some healthy and some non-healthy treats. The excitement kept building! When we returned home, the kids couldn't wait to start. We all chose our little corner of the living room, made our spots perfect with blankets, pillows, etc., and turned on the fireplace! COZY!

Riley was especially fond of the idea of turning over desks and tables for his perfect reading spot. We brought in the chairs from the dining room. They made a great "wall." Riley liked reading about dinosaurs, farm animals, and other picture books.

Here's Sophie in her little corner, snuggled in with some short chapter books...like Junie B. Jones, Titchy Witch, The Pony Fairy, and A Magic Kitten Book (her favorite!). She is a very good reader!

Lucy was satisfied with watching a Dora DVD in her comfy spot, allowing the rest of us to enjoy our own reading.

Michael, here reading "The Forever War" about the US Marines, got his pick of places and rotated between the couch and the floor...whichever was closest to the snacks! We had a small selection of new yummy cheeses and crackers, grapes, barbeque chicken wings, drinks, and chips. It ended up being a very tasty "meal". Everyone lasted at least an hour before Riley joined Lucy in the DVD corner! We took a break and shared a bit of what we were reading.
We voted to do it again...maybe every month. I loved that my kids enjoyed sitting and reading. Hopefully they will continue loving to read!

Ahhh, the power of Blu-Tak

2009-02-04T09:52:00.002-07:00

Here is Sophie's bedroom wall...notice all the decorations right above her bed. They're her special items she likes to have near her...all adhering to the wall with the oh-so powerful...BLU-TAK! It'll hold anything up!

Like her Ben 10 figures, a 2 pound coin, a miniature SALLY car from the movie "Cars", a cat figurine, a soccer ball whistle, and other special papers, including her latest note from Aunt Suzanne which came in the post!

Riley's wall is no different...bet he adds a sea shell to his collection. (By the way, if you were to ask Riley how the sea shell came to be on the school playground where he found it, he will give you his very creative and plausible explanation, "a sea gull dropped it there, so I could find it!" ... such logic!)

Gotta get you some Blu-tak! I'd give you some of ours, but it being used and what's not used is being collected in lumps of blue...just waiting for something else to need to be hung on the wall! It's a hot commodity!

Snow in Oxford

2009-02-02T07:24:00.007-07:00

We woke up Monday morning to see this out our front door! How beautiful! And how very rare for our area to see this much snow. It snowed mostly all day. The city slowed way down, but our school wasn't cancelled, much to the disappointment of the kids. (How soon they have softened fromour last winter in Iowa!)

Another shot of the falling snow!

Lucy LOVED to watch the snow and the occassional passer-by. Here's a little video clip I made of her after her nap, jumping on our beds. What else would we do when it's all snowy outside?! You'll laugh when you see the bed-head Lucy sports! So funny!

Oxford Ward Walk

2009-02-01T09:15:00.007-07:00

Our ward (church group) here in Oxford met together last Saturday morning to all walk. We donned our wellies (there's been a bit of rain = mud) and bundled up. There was a group of about 30, including back-pack babies! It was so pleasant and fun to chat amongst ourselves, learning a bit about the area and our fellow ward members.

We met at Dorchester Abbey...a pretty place of worship that was constructed beginning in the 12th century. It's found in a little village south of Oxford called Dorchester-on-Thames.

Our little kids are not patient waiters! They were anxious to get the show on the road!

We followed the public footpath, crossed through a "kissing gate" and met a lot of mud. We were glad that we had on our wellies!

Here, our fearless leader and organizer of the walk, Brother Howes, is teaching us about the eddies in the water, why they form, etc. Very informative. We also learned about sticky buds and the tiny cones of the Alder tree.

Walking along the Thames River. The Daines troop bringing up the rear, to get a good photo!

About half-way point we came to another little parish...St Peter's church. I loved these windows!

A really old graveyard on the church grounds.

Riley and his new buddy, Owen. Such great troopers on the long walk! I think they both ran half of the time!

Here's a group shot at St. Peter's church. Such fun people! I laughed a lot and really enjoyed myself...and the wellies are so easy to clean!

Chinese New Year

2009-02-01T08:39:00.007-07:00

Riley's class had a special activity day to celebrate the Chinese New Year...and parents were invited to come join in the fun!

Riley in their Classroom Chinese Restaurant, showing me some yummy foods they are learning about. All of it has become very familiar with many viewings of Kung Fu Panda...especially the dumplings! (pictured at the table, Keyano, Lucy, Riley, and Nigel)

A paper creation of a dragon puppet with bits and pieces of ripped wrapping paper. (Riley didn't like them to touch or overlap!) Such good work, Riley!

Riley loved showing us around his classroom, and Lucy's favorite stop was here...the indoor sandbox. We spent quite a few minutes dumping and pouring again and again...until she had her fill! (some of Riley's classmates...David, and Daisy)

We all were curious as to which year each member of our family was born. We researched and found our animal and a few characteristics:

Natalie = year of the tiger ...confident, idealistic, versatile and reckless!

Michael = year of the rabbit ...sensitive, tactful, artistic and timid.

Sophie = year of the horse ...typical characteristics include being spontaneous, curious, whimsical and fickle. She also says that "horses" can be a bit selfish at times...she said it!

Riley = year of the monkey ...typical characteristics include being inventive, witty, humorous and manipulative.

Lucy = year of the pig ...optimistic, obliging, tolerant and materialistic.

So, which animal are you?

There you have it...Happy Chinese New Year!

Yea! The long-awaited day finally came!

2009-01-25T12:03:00.005-07:00

The CTR rings finally came! Riley is in his first CTR class at church (children ages 5-8) and has been anticipating and not-so-patiently waiting for his first CTR ring. I've never seen such a huge smile! Here pictured are Riley, Sophie and Lucy's hands...Riley may be the little brother, but his hands are already larger...and Lucy (without a much coveted ring) just wants to be a part of all the excitement, whatever it is at the moment!

We had a rip-roaring game of UNO tonight. And luckily both Sophie and Riley each won a round right at the beginning! We're trying to teach the kids the just have fun and that winning isn't EVERYTHING...it's an ongoing venture. However, pretty successful tonight, Yeah! It makes for a much happier family time together.

London Temple

2009-01-18T12:53:00.006-07:00

Our beautiful little kiddos on the steps of the London Temple. We walked around the Temple grounds which were absolutely gorgeous. And since both the temple and the visitor's center were closed, we had the place to ourselves!

Michael and I on a cool little bridge. Sophie took this picture and did a very good job, don't you think?!

We loved the little pond and, of course, there happened to be a duck happily swimming. It had all the kids excited and stole little Lucy's full attention. When we all were walking away, she stopped giggling at the duck to wave goodbye, and gave her best shot at "quacking". We'd never heard her do that before! It sounded pretty funny! (made her daddy proud!)

My handsome English gentleman next to the entrance sign. I love that the grass is so green here...even in the cold of January!

Sophie and Riley as guards on either side of the London Temple sign. (everything else was closed...this sign was about all there was to do!)

We drove to the London Temple after our Stake Conference. We figured since we were half-way there already, why not?! We arrived around 2pm and the visitor's center didn't open until 6pm that evening. We opted not to stick around. We plan to return later...when it's a bit warmer, too! Maybe the scaffolding will have been removed by then!

Oxford Natural History Museum

2009-01-18T12:52:00.004-07:00

It's been so cold lately, that an excursion indoors was a welcome idea! We chose...The University of Oxford Museum of Natural History. It was a hit...and free! Sophie, who reads well, and Riley who sounds things out pretty well, had a great time actually learning from reading about the animals on their little placards. The dinosaurs are always a favorite!

We saw a real live one of these in Africa last fall, but this one we could pet! (or "stroke" as they say here.)

This excursion prompted a showing of "Night at the Museum"...can you guess why? The bones and size of this creature are pretty incredible.

We had to finish our bagels/paninis before entering the museum. They kept our hands warm while we walked the short distance from the center of town.

Sophie and Riley showing their "teeth" smiles! (a little prettier than the "only lip" smile they used in the photo before!) The museum, pictured behind, is a lovely building! Supposedly there is a stuffed dodo bird there. However, we never found it, just a painting of one....sigh.

Special thanks to our photographer, Michael, who, unfortunately, was behind the camera in every shot! Next time, babe!

Sherwood Forest

2009-01-18T12:51:00.003-07:00

Riley's not quite sure what to think of the pink-haired doll!

On the last day of the year we visited Sherwood Forest, of Robin Hood fame. It was maybe the coldest day of the year, as well. Despite our waxing/waning illnesses and medicated fevers, we enjoyed the pretty scenery. But our fingers and toes were almost frozen by the time we made it back to the car and got it warmed up! We had a quick look at the Old Oak Tree, one of the oldest living trees in the forest, like 1600 years old! (just try to count those tree rings!) It had stakes tied to it, to hold up its very heavy branches! Our family "friend", Christy came along for the ride...she sure wished she had a coat to wear! We hope to visit here again in the spring/summer where we can also have a go at the archery station!

A visitor from the States...JULIE!

2009-01-18T12:50:00.014-07:00

My sister, Julie, came to visit over the Christmas holidays. We thoroughly enjoyed having "Aunt Ju-Ju" here and loved showing her a little taste of England.

We took a quick Sunday afternoon drive to Stonehenge...serendipitously on the Winter Equinox, even! I now understand what all the hooplah is about a bunch of huge stones. It was an amazing site and although very windy and cold, enjoyable!

One of the MANY photos we all took that day! So pretty with the sky just turning pink.

We also ventured into London...a must-see! Here, Sophie and Riley posing with a Constable in front of BIG BEN! (I think the officer's name is "Bobby") J/k

Jules looking ever so striking next to a phone booth.

We missed the changing of the guard, but still loved to be at Buckingham Palace.

We strapped on iceskates and gave the whole skating thing in Hyde Park a try. No one was any good, but we got around the rink...once, each!

I'm sure we'll have great memories of this adventure!

Back in downtown Oxford...a little sightseeing and a taste of one of our local favorites, Pasties. (Christy --a little family friend/joke--came along, but didn't get to taste. She was so mad, her hair stuck straight up in the air! Freaky, true to form. :)

It was getting dark and so we didn't get many great shots of the buildings. This one had cool lighting behind it. There is so much historical architecture to see...and it's really pretty.

We, of course, had a wonderful Christmas, too. It is all worth any kind of hassle to see the excitement in my kids eyes! I love that!

And in between sharing new strains of illnesses with each other, we did get out to go walking a bit. It was definitely a Jolly Holiday with you, Jules! Thanks for visiting. You're welcome back anytime!

Sheffield

2009-01-18T12:50:00.009-07:00

Frosty morning as we drove down the little lane of Bolsterstone.

Out the gate and such pretty frost all over the trees...even a spiderweb! Mother Nature can take my breath away!

Our hosts, Nadine and Patrick. Such cool people. They made us feel so at home and they absolutely loved having the kids around! Phew!

In the kitchen...where magic happens! Wonderful meals! ...that reminds me, we still need to get a few recipes from Patrick!

Their dog Broady...named after Broadhurst Castle where he was found! Lucy was enthralled and followed this little doggy everywhere she could. Once a little too far...into a corner...uh-oh!

Feeding the ducks at the reservoir. We stopped to get some bread, much to the ducks...and goose's liking!

Lucy and her Daddy.

We didn't stay out too long, because we were freezing! But the views were outstanding. All of the stone construction was beautiful.

Downtown Sheffield...we were reminded more than once that it was not a tourist town...but we still found lots to keep us entertained!

An outdoor carousel...

a museum for the steelworks which Sheffield is most known for , including a giraffe made out of stainless steel silverware! So cool!

The Winter Garden...an indoor habitat for over 2000 species of plants, hand watered! And just because it was indoors, doesn't mean it was very warm!

The arches inside the garden were really cool, made from a type of wood called Larch. Just an FYI!

Very cool fountains to take pictures by!

Back at our basecamp...ready to go for a walk! Such a beautiful and peaceful place.

The flat above the garage is where we stayed...complete with kitchen! We couldn't have asked for better!

The view from the house...absolutely beautiful!

2008-12-25T17:07:00.002-07:00

The Big day finally arrived and we couldn't wait, or at least I couldn't. I woke Sophie and Riley up at 5:30 and we sat in Riley's bed counting down the minutes until 6 (the appointed hour to go in and get the presents).

Here we are, still waiting, but Lucy joined in. Who wants to open a present?

Lucy's first present was this pretty little pony. She squealed in delight and couldn't take her hands off it, that is, until the next present.

She also got this little scooter. It plays music while she rolls. She loves it.

Lucy really got into the present thing. Here is her new phone.

Oxford/Cambridge Rugby

2008-12-21T13:51:00.004-07:00

Here I am in front of the national stadium at Twickenham for the annual Cambridge/Oxford grudge match. I went with a group from the research lab. We went early, spent a few hours tailgating in front of the stadium then went in just in time for the start of play.

Me and my good friend Rich right before the game. Great seats wouldn't you say?

The Oxford Blues gettng warmed up before the start.

The final score. Oxford pulled it out, but not without a furious charge at the end by Cambridge. All in all it was a very entertaining game and close enough at the end to keep everyone on edge.

Cinnamon Rolls

2008-12-08T15:42:00.006-07:00

Okay, so I borrowed this image from the internet...though they do look mouth watering, don't you think? Mine did not look this good! I don't really have a pan that would accommodate cinnamon rolls, so I tried the roasting pan...you know the one, it's usually stored in the drawer under the oven and hardly ever gets pulled out. It worked pretty well. I also used our muffin tins, so those 12 looked great! We just had to make do with what we've got around here. Turned out to be a fun and tasty Sunday evening treat!

Lucy loves to lick the beaters...especially when they've got sweet stuff on them, like frosting!

walking...British style!

2008-12-07T09:16:00.005-07:00

At the trail head...before all the mud!

dressed warm...in layers

This is how far we've come!

Swinging from a rope in the tree that we found. Had to stop and have fun for a while.

Riley's a little scared of heights...but always knows where the camera is!

Michael braved the limbs for Lucy to feel part of the fun!

We met some horse riders that were kind enough to stop and allow the kids to make friends with their horses...This one is William Pinkerton...aka: Willie.

Feeding some grass to the horses.

A break from walking...on a sunny rock.

Investigating the plants nearby.

We set off yesterday morning to go walking in the forrest. There's a park not too far from our house and the car park (parking lot) was very full ...even by the time we got there. Gratefully, the park is large and we didn't see many of the people belonging to those cars!

Pigtails!

2008-12-07T09:07:00.004-07:00

Lucy's hair is finally growing enough to stretch it into teeny-tiny pigtails. She looked adorable and acted like she knew it! They only lasted a few hours before she couldn't resist the temptation to tug at them and pull them out.

Christmas Bazaar

2008-11-26T05:18:00.006-07:00

Sophie as a dalmation puppy...like she always pretends to be!

Ready...steady...

Our primary school held a Christmas bazaar as a fund raise for school playground upgrades. It was held the last two hours of school and everything was donated to sell. Kids in the upper grades made up carnival-like games to entertain the smaller kids. It was very creative.

The kids got their faces painted, played games, and bought little used toys for really cheap! (Our Christmas shopping is all done! If we have your name, aren't you excited?...carnival toys!) J/K!

I dropped off Lucy to spend the afternoon with Michael at his office so I could keep up with all the action! We all had fun!

One hour in London

2008-11-26T04:41:00.004-07:00

Every family needs a pouter...here's ours. But isn't he being cute, "whilst" he sulks? (Looky there, I'm becoming a bit British already!)

Front shot of Her Majesty's Palace. It was really amazing to see.

Sophie at the gate of Buckhingham Palace...requesting a tea party with the queen!

...sorry, too early for tea!

This statue inspired me...a mother with her three little ones around her. Made me want to hug my own little kids.

Bryce was Mr. Popular with my kids. It's probably a good thing he got to sleep the 8 hours from Africa to London...otherwise, my kids' energy could have been, dare I say, annoying?! Maybe so even as it was! What a champ, Bryce!

Resting and smiling on a park bench.

We stopped off at Hyde/Green Park and walked around in the chilly morning air. We were happy that Buckingham Palace wasn't that far of a walk!

We met my brother Bryce and his wife, Krystal at the airport in London at 6:30am. They didn't have to be back for a few hours, so we bought tickets for a ride on the Underground! Wahoo!

AFRICA #4

2008-11-12T05:15:00.006-07:00

I love this picture. The rhino has a ton of little blue birds catching a ride on his back, and there's a lone giraffe walking in the background. It almost didn't seem real!

Lake Nakuru National Park is one of the few places where you can see both white and black rhinos. Here is a white Rhino. It has a wide nose/mouth. (can't really tell from the picture) Amazing beasts...walking around, grazing on grass, with huge legs and bodies, wow!

A close-up of one of the many baby animals we saw. Zebras are Riley's favorites! We saw lots of Zebras! (pronounced zeh-brah in Kenya...and in England come to think about it! But don't let Riley hear you pronounce it that way! He gets a little defensive. "It's zee-bra", he says!

At Baboon Cliffs overlooking the Lake and the Park.

Another picture of a giraffe. This particular one is a Rothschild giraffe. It doesn't have markings on its lower legs...making it look like it's got socks on!

One of my favorite pictures of Riley...here looking at monkeys. Love his smile!

The famed flamingos at Lake Nakuru National Park.

On an early morning game drive, seeing these giraffes through the misty dew was beautiful! We also saw a lioness "watching" them as well...(she didn't turn out in the picture!) You can tell that the giraffes can sense the lioness is close by. They're all looking in the same direction, and being very cautious. Well, wouldn't you be, too?!

From the veranda of the game lodge, with a masai warrior standing guard, keeping wildlife, esp. baboons, away from the food! What a magnificent view! In the background you can see (left to right) a cape buffalo, impala/gazelle, and baboons.

Riley and Sophie in front of statues in a hallway of the lodge. Cute kids.

Waiting in the van while Grandpa registered us at the Park. Can't tell who's more fascinated, the baboons at the kids, or the kids at the baboons...which tried to climb into the van through the window! That really got a scream from the kids! They loved it!

AFRICA #3

2008-11-11T05:47:00.004-07:00

Pajama party and a movie in the hotel.

At the Misikhu Branch building waiting for the baptism meeting to begin. It was a wonderful branch conference and our kids enjoyed Primary and mingling with all the other kids.

Sophie made friends with everyone we met. They loved her blonde hair and that she would tell them all about herself...Sophie's not scared to talk!

We really felt exotic with the mosquito nets hanging around the beds!

Africa #2

2008-11-11T05:30:00.003-07:00

The first 20 minutes of our first game drive and we stumbled on a lion in a tree! It wasn't too far from the road we were on. We were glad the van didn't have an open top just then! What a massive creature! Amazing!

Riley and Sophie hanging out with the elders during a break at their Zone Conference. Sophie and Riley entertained themselves a long time with our portable DVD player and Scooby-Doo, so that Michael and I could take turns being a part of the mission life and watching my mom and dad in their element!

Crossing the equator!

Albino Zebras!

(part of a national park refuge)

After a long day of branch training. Such fun and good people!

AFRICA #1

2008-11-10T10:05:00.005-07:00

Michael dares a kiss from the giraffe, Laura.

I loved the giraffes, especially in the wild. I'm sure I'll post more pictures of that later!

Riley and Sophie posing in front of the elephants at the orphanage. A highlight of the trip was petting the baby elephants and seeing them up close!

We arrived just as they were about to feed the baby elephants. They wore blankets on their backs to keep them warm in the absence of the mother's warmth. It didn't feel that cold to me, though!

So good to see my parents! There's nothing quite like a hug from your mom and dad. Ahhh!And they got to meet Lucy for the first time, too! She was born while they were in the MTC ~almost 1 1/2 years ago!

We had an awesome adventure in Africa! We visited Grandma and Grandpa Taylor and tagged along with them to their zone conference and branch training before experiencing the wild animals of Africa! The kids (and the adults) had permanent open mouths and bug-eyes...just couldn't believe what they were seeing! It was fun to watch the kids' reactions to the whole experience, almost as fun as seeing it for the first time myself! WOW! We were DAILY reminded of the beauty of the earth and God's creations. And thankful for the opportunity to see and be part of it. Thanks for a great visit, Mom and Dad! We love and miss you!

Playground fun

2008-10-13T15:12:00.002-06:00

Peek-A-Boo!

Lucy is a character...always trying to make somebody laugh or smile!

Me and my little girl...not so little anymore!

Sophie crossed the monkey-bars all by herself for the first time! We all celebrated!

We rode our bikes to a nearby park and playground. We had fun playing on the equipment and playing "Mother May I?" and "What Time Is It, Mr. Fox?" Lucy was quite the escaper! Every moment we'd turn our backs, she'd wave good-bye to us and take off running, pushing her little baby stroller through the grass! Cheeky!

Yummy Lollies!

2008-10-13T14:45:00.003-06:00

Enjoying a sunny October afternoon, eating lollies from the neighborhood ice cream truck!

Lucy couldn't get enough of this raspberry-vanilla lolly! Pure joy! Her poor lips were so red when she was through! And she cried when it was gone!

The infamous ice cream truck! We hear the fun music in our neighborhood most afternoons when it is sunny and nice. Sophie and Riley go beserk when they hear it and act like they will die if they don't get to have something from it. We've held off for a few weeks, but since we might not have many more nice afternoons, we splurged and had a fun time sharing our lollies!

Riley's Wheel-A-Thon

2008-10-11T02:17:00.005-06:00

Riley making the appropriate "zooming" sounds as he rides around the track.

All done! 10 laps and hardly breaking a sweat!

Riley's school held a fund-raiser to make money to buy new bikes and things to spruce up their playground area. Riley couldn't have been more happy! He absolutely loves riding his bike and to be able to do it on school grounds (instead of having to get off and walk it to the bike racks) was a real treat for him! Lucy and I stayed and watched him complete his 10 laps around their "track". They got to tick off a number each time they completed a lap. Riley was proud of his completed card when he finished!

2008-10-09T03:12:00.009-06:00

Crossing the Thames river on the way home from church.

Here we are at the famous bridge of sighs. It is apparently copied from a famous bridge in Venice.

We took advantage of one of our nice days here and went punting on the Cherwell. The boats or punts are long, narrow and quite unstable. The kids were a little nervous, but they grew to love it. You propel the punt with a long pole. Takes a bit to get it all figured!

School is finally in for the kids and they love it. Here they are cheesing it up before heading off on their bikes.

Here are the kids sitting outside our new home showing off their brand new wellies. Lucy has on her cute hat, and trust me, she is very aware of how cute she is.

Double fun

2008-10-07T04:04:00.004-06:00

We were waiting for the bus to come early one Sunday morning, so we could get to church on time. It was raining, and from out of the foggy mist a huge double decker drove up. (I guess the regualar bus is replaced on the weekends by the larger ones.) Riley and Sophie couldn't have been more pleased! We had seen these in town and the kids had already plead to ride one. Here was our opportunity.... and we all rode on the top right in the front! It's now one of our favorite rides to church...until we get a car!

E N G L A N D -- Our home away from home.

2008-09-20T14:31:00.004-06:00

We finally made it to our next stage in life...living abroad! It's taken a few weeks to feel like we know what we're doing and how to get where we want to go.

Here's our new contact information:

79 Horspath Road

Cowley, Oxford

OX4 2QP

ENGLAND

call us at:

(Natalie) 011.447.535.384.008
(Michael) 011.447.852.319.104

Just remember that we're 6 hours ahead of Central Time Zone!!

2008-08-18T10:19:00.005-06:00

A lot has happened since our last post. We moved out of our first home (sigh) and smack dab into the middle of a flood plain! Michael finished his residency, took his written boards (yikes) and we moved on to Idaho where Michael starred in an upcoming version of Jared Scott outdoors! Lucy turned 1, Natalie turned 25 (again) and Sophie is six (going on sixteen)

Riley caught the biggest fish, but the whole family chipped in for a nice fish supper, streamside style.

Firestation Fieldtrip

2008-04-09T08:33:00.002-06:00

Riley and a group of kids his age happily waiting for the firemen to talk to them!

Being brave next to Fireman Steve.

Riley and friend Harrison. Love the new hats!

Happy Easter, Happy Eggs

2008-03-26T19:15:00.007-06:00

Riley had fun coloring eggs...but was disappointed the green (his favorite color) wasn't dark enough. Here he is showing one of the eggs with his initials colored on it. (don't ask about the hat. With Riley, you never know what to expect!)

Sophie was very careful and methodical. She had some nice eggs that turned out...in each color!

Riley loves holding Lucy. He was very proud of his big brother Sunday tie!

First days of S P R I N G !

2008-03-26T19:11:00.007-06:00

With the sun shining a little bit today, we stopped by at the "Zebra Park" for some fun and energy release! The tire swing is always a favorite, although, we did have to take breaks in between the fast twirls...Riley's face got a little white and we (I) didn't want to wait around to see what would follow if we dared continue!

Lucy's first encounter with a park swing. She held on super tight!

And loved it!

This is why the park is called the "Zebra Park." It's a new feature in the park this spring and we've been eyeing it since the snow started to melt. Riley's favorite animal is by far a zebra...can you guess what he raced to ride once his seat belt was unlatched in the car? you got it!

Sophie conquered her fears and triumphed over the "cork screw." She was so happy with herself and is now eagerly anticipating showing her friends at school how fast she can go! You should have heard her talking herself through to the personal victory! It made me laugh and be proud.

" P " is for ...

2008-03-26T17:35:00.005-06:00

Pizzas!

Sophie and Riley are great chefs on these personal pizzas! (Sophie has on her tie-dye shirt she made at school...a favorite!)

Painting!

Here they are helping me paint their bedroom wall white.

Puzzles!

Sometimes a good puzzle is all you need to wind down before bedtime.

Idaho Snarr visit

2008-03-17T11:59:00.002-06:00

Jared and Michael with Carson.
Alicia looks so good as a mommy. What a lucky kid!

Let the crawling begin!

2008-03-06T21:52:00.004-07:00

I just figured out how to post videos that I take with my cell phone...I thought it would be harder than it was. The quality isn't the greatest, but what can I expect from a cell phone/video camera? I originally took this video to send to Michael who is in San Francisco for an annual Orthopedic meeting. If you can stand my high pitched baby coaxing voice, you'll be fine watching this little clip. We're proud of Lucy learning to crawl! She loves to be on the move now! And nothing is safe anymore now that she's mobile!

Chicago with Sisters!

2008-02-27T16:20:00.011-07:00

Julie, Me, Krystal, Camille, Suzanne, Crystal, Tara, and Emilee. (not pictured, Cindy.) What a fun, fun weekend in Chicago with 7 of my 8 sisters! Of course, I forgot my camera, so thanks to all for e-mailing these! Here we are in front of the Chicago Temple.

I have wanted to see Wicked for quite some time, now. We finally saw it and loved it! I bought the soundtrack and am enjoying the memories, including our adrenaline-pumped grand entrance to the theater! That's a great story for another day!

Here I am with Lucy and my youngest sister Julie. We didn't have lots of time to just sit on the couch and visit, but when we did, it was a taste of heaven!

My personal highlights include staying up late into the night chatting with Camille (we shared a room...just like the old days when we were only 6 or 7 years old!), shopping at the outlet mall, our morning "devotionals", the late night movie..brrr!, a surprise gift exchange, spending time with sisters-in-law Tara and Krystal (they are fantastic!), passing babies around to hold, visiting my college friend Candice Stratford and her family, and driving around packed in Camille's suburban. I really hope there's another getaway next year!

And a special thianks to my Michael for taking good care of Sophie and Riley while I was gone. I couldn't have done any of this without you, babe.

Happy Birthday R I L E Y!

2008-02-27T15:45:00.006-07:00

Riley and Sophie eating out at Chili's!

His new favorite truck...a rescue truck!

A new game, "What's in Ned's Head"...a tactile and sensory game, just right for little boys!

Riley turned 4 over the weekend and celebrated with Daddy and Sophie while Lucy and I were off vacationing in Chicago! His highlights are going to a friend's pirate birthday party, having Macaroni and Cheese, his all-time favorite, for lunch, playing with daddy, his new truck, and going out to eat at Chili's. (Riley loves ribs and volcano cake!) He loves the gifts and cards that were sent...thank you! And if anyone ever wants to play "What's in Ned's Head" come on over! Sophie and Riley both say, "It's pretty gross, mom! And it's sooo fun!"

Tricks these days

2008-02-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

Lucy has some new tricks...here she is up on her knees. She saw a little girl at church doing this and could hardly wait to get home and try it out herself! Oh joy, does competition begins this early?

She also loves to be moving but hasn't figured out forward motion, yet. Here we watched her back her way into a dead end! Sophie and Riley get a kick out of her "back scoot". She's pretty quick even if she can't see where she's going!

New Floor

2008-02-07T08:33:00.001-07:00

We recently installed new flooring in our bathroom...getting ready to sell the house is so fun! The installer removed the toilet and placed it in the bathtub to get it out of the way (glad he didn't mess up the carpet in the hallway!) Riley was so intent on watching "the man in our bathroom" that it wasn't until he was almost finished with the project that Riley noticed the toilet in the tub. He laughed hysterically as only Riley can, and kept saying over and over, "Mommy, the toilet's taking a bath!" We had to take a picture so he could show Daddy when he got home from work.

Lucy ... 7 months old!

2008-01-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Lulu...happy baby.

Hanging out with Big Bro Riley...(still in his PJ's and with a carpet burn on his forehead. He likes to be a bulldozer sometimes! Really!)

Riley "babysitting" Lucy while I take a quick shower! Yes, they just watch a favorite movie...training her early, I guess!

Lucy has the perfect tummy for "zer-berts" (how do you spell those?) She did smile and laugh a lot, almost as much as Michael did!

7 months and still smiling!

Iowa Caucus

2008-01-27T17:13:00.001-07:00

As residents of Iowa, we were able to take part in the Republican caucus held the beginning of January. It started with everyone saying the Pledge of Allegiance together and so we felt rather patriotic while fulfilling our civic duty and caucusing for our favorite candidate! We met in the media center of Sophie's Elementary school. She thought that was cool! The kids had a lot of fun...(they watched a movie on the DVD player!)...and we learned a lot about the whole process. Our candidate won in our precinct, too bad the whole state didn't follow our example! When we got home, we were sad to find that our Mitt Romney lawn sign had been swiped! Grrr.

John Deere...T R A C T O R S!

2008-01-25T14:48:00.000-07:00

All the guys in our group gathered for a "manly" picture. All the dads are Ortho residents together spending precious time with their families.

Sophie felt left out and got her own pose with Daddy.

Lucy enjoying her ride at the indoor playground

Riley poses by an antique tractor...typical Riley pose (cheese)!

Riley telling me that this is a "wild ride"

We took advantage of the Monday holiday (for Sophie and Michael) and drove to Moline, IL to meet some friends at the John Deere tractor museum. There were lots of tractors displayed and almost all could be sat on/in. The kids had a great time imagining they were driving. And they especially loved the big combine that looks like "Frank" from the Disney movie "Cars". They spent a lot of time "racing" that one! It snowed quite a bit that day. We were happy to get home before everything started to freeze on the roads!

Lucy loves cereal

2008-01-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

Open wide!

Bullseye! It goes in!

Ew! Not sure what to think.

And finally a smile!

(but it's debatable if the smile is because she liked the cereal, or if it's because she's got daddy's full attention!)

S N O W !

2007-12-31T09:31:00.000-07:00

The kids had so much fun on our first sledding outing. It was pretty cold, but that didn't seem to stop them. It was too bad our snow tube popped on our first day! I guess we'll have to find another one...soon! Sophie says, "We want to go sledding every day of winter, now!"

Lucy warms up in the car!

Whee!!

Sophie and Riley laughing the whole way!

Give Lucy another year or so and she'll be begging for a ride, too! We thought the clear blue sky was pretty amazing.

Christmas 2007

2007-12-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

Christmas Recap 2007 by Natalie, special thanks to Josh Groban for the song. (About 4 minutes).

Old Man Winter...gotta love him!

2007-12-28T16:57:00.000-07:00

We've had a few storms lately with lots of ice and then some snow, too. It makes for scary driving and lots of time chipping ice off the driveway, but also makes very beautiful pictures.

I hope to post a few pictures of us enjoying the snow...if we can endure the cold for that long!

Ortho Holiday Party

2007-12-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

Michael and two of his resident buddies, Cory Christensen and Matt Lavery, pose for a picture at their last holiday party together at the University of Iowa.

Lucy took a power nap on Dr. Ponsetti's lap. He's got a special touch with little ones! It took less than three minutes for Lucy to relax and give-in! She was a little tired after being passed around by all of the clinic nurses and friends!

Visit from Grandpa Pete

2007-12-14T09:01:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Pete visited us at the beginning of December for Michael's ordination to High Priest. It was a fun weekend and Pete got all the attention from the kids! We endured a terrific ice storm while he was here forcing us to stay most of the time indoors. We read books, had a Birthday party, took naps, watched movies, and ordered take-out. The weather cleared just in time for Pete's flight...which he was grateful for! Thanks Pete for a fun visit! You're welcome anytime!

Thanksgiving

2007-11-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

Our second Ohio Thanksgiving was just as much fun as the first! We gathered at Camille and Chad's house and five of my siblings were able to be there! (Yeah, it was a houseful!) We had so much fun...Turkey Bowl, feast of all feasts, computer games (hooray for Nancy Drew!), shopping, "Mexican Train", "Beowulf", "Mad Gab", "Amazing Grace", Utah vs BYU, playing with cousins, late nights, holding babies, dishes, and yes, more shopping! Thanks Hales!

Daddy Daughter Date

2007-11-27T15:01:00.000-07:00

Well, it wouldn't be fair for the boys to have all the fun! Michael took Sophie to the last Hawkeyes home football game...again, thanks for the free last minute tickets! They had a blast. Sophie loved eating a hotdog, watching the flame dancer at half-time, and wearing Daddy's vest to keep her warm. It was a wish come true for Michael, always wanting to go to a game, but never the time, nor the tickets! Good memories for both Daddy and daughter! (And Riley, Lucy, and I had a lot of fun getting a new car battery! Wahoo!)

Boys night out

2007-11-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

Michael took Riley with him last night to see a University of Iowa basketball game. Michael's attending physician on his current rotation, Dr. Weinstein, gave him his tickets since he couldn't use them. Riley looked forward to the game all day long...couldn't take a nap, even in the car, he was so excited! (Yes, he comes by those genes honestly!) I waited up for them and "the guys" looked so good when they came home, all dressed in their jeans and leather jackets! (Oh, and carrying some leftover popcorn as per Sophie's request!) They had a fun time together...and I think Iowa won!

Tricks and Treats

2007-11-07T15:53:00.000-07:00

What kid doesn't love Halloween? Even all of us big kids! Here are a few pictures of our spooks!

After getting past the "feels gross, mommy!" attitude of carving the pumpkins, our kids really had a great time. Michael is the champion carver (he's good with a knife). It's all those years of practice with a scalpel! He created a jack-o-lantern appropriately named "Retch," using the gross and slimey insides spewing out it's open mouth! Riley named his "Smiley" and Sophie named hers "Rosie" (which she picked herself on a Kindergarten field trip!) My sister Suzanne was here visiting and added her own flair..."hey, Sophie, did you know that pumpkin seeds stick to your face?" Ha! ha!

Vacation to The Falls

2007-10-23T09:54:00.000-06:00

The first weekend in October we visited Idaho Falls for a job interview and to spend time with family. We had such a marvelous time...Here are a few of our highlights:

lots of family time, throwing our first snowballs of the season, getting haircuts (thanks Alicia), General Conference on TV and with family, hanging with the Taylor's, Powell's, Taylor's and Julie!, finding frogs, meeting Bridger, fresh salsa, caramel popcorn, cinnamon rolls, visiting Grandma Pieper and Grandma Rydalch, swimming at the hotel pool, playing with cousins, painting baby pumpkins, watching "The Office", riding with and steering Uncle Bryce's tractor, seeing/smelling the potato harvest and digging a few spuds of our own, Cafe Rio Pork Burritos, duck/pheasant hunting, sleeping-in until 9am, target shooting, coloring pictures and playing with Grandma's toys!

We did a lot of fun things, but left wishing we had done more! Hope to visit again! We love you all! Here's a slideshow of our trip:

Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-23T09:36:00.000-06:00

We collected a few pumpkins for our annual jack-o-lantern carving! We visited the famous Wilson's Orchard and picked a few of the best looking ones we could find! It was pretty muddy this year, but that didn't stop Riley and Sophie from running around and having a great time! It has always been a favorite family event and especially when it's finished off with a fresh, hot apple turnover from Mrs. Wilson! M-M-M-M! Stay tuned for our jack-o-lantern creations!

Duck hunt

2007-10-21T17:37:00.000-06:00

Michael here posting for the first time. This picture is from a recent duck hunt here in Iowa. It has been a good year for waterfowl (lots of rain) but a bad year for pheasants (too much rain). I guess it's all the farmers praying for moisture!

Hawkeye Homecoming

2007-09-30T16:03:00.000-06:00

This past weekend was homecoming in our little town! It's amazing how many people show up and how many of them own clothing that is black/gold! We went to the parade...the first time since we've been here if you can believe it! The kids loved it! It was pretty short but had a lot of candy and music to dance to, and the lively marching bands which were my favorite! Just as a sidelight, we parked in a lot that was for two hour business at the federal building. It was closed by the time the parade started, so we figured it was fair game, which it was...about fifty other cars thought the same as we did. So, when all is said and done...maybe an hour and a half had passed, we're walking back to the car and everyone is waiting in front of the gates that had been closed and locked while everyone was gone!!! Oh, snap! We rallied with all of the other fellow hawkeye parkers and finally called the police and convinced them to help us out. The custodian of the building arrived, and avoiding all eye contact with us, unlocked the gate. Whew! We were sure grateful! Riley and Sophie each shared some of their parade candy with the nice policeman...nobody can say no to tootsie rolls!

New Art

2007-09-30T13:41:00.000-06:00

I bought a new kind of marker...the kind that is designed to go on windows/mirrors, etc. Wow! Riley and Sophie both have really loved decorating our windows! And they stay at it for hours, which I love! It cleans up quick and then the windows are ready for the next masterpiece. It has been fun to see the kids' individual creative styles...Sophie is all about getting it done fast and covering the whole window with big pictures. Riley is all about staying until every inch of the window is covered, making sure not to mix any of the colors. Riley usually interprets his drawing as scary monsters and Sophie says hers are thunder and lightning and smiley faces!

Summer Biking

2007-09-25T15:03:00.000-06:00

Mid-field cartwheel

2007-09-24T13:12:00.000-06:00

"S" is for school, soccer, and Sophie!

2007-09-17T20:41:00.000-06:00

Sophie started Kindergarten and also got her first taste of soccer! She loves school, her teacher, math, art, eating lunch, and recess! One of her most favorite things at school is "choice time" where she gets to choose from a number of activities within the classroom. She almost always chooses "housekeeping" ... a station set up with a kitchen, cradle, etc. She loves it and I have to say that it surprises me. She hardly ever plays with dolls at home, just her stuffed animals! She continues to keep us guessing! As for soccer, with two games down and six more to go, Sophie is a budding athlete! The first game she was mostly excited about the uniform and the water bottle! She liked running up and down the field, but not without a few cartwheels in the mix! By the next week, she was starting to kick the ball and get into the game a bit more. We'll see what the next months will bring in this area.

2007-09-17T20:19:00.000-06:00

Riley, Michael, Lucy, Natalie, and Sophie

We Made It To The Web!

2007-09-17T20:04:00.000-06:00

We've finally joined the ranks with all our computer savvy friends and family! We hope that this blog is a way to keep in touch and let you know what's going on in our lives...from the spectacular to the mundane! Thanks for visiting!