Love

California in December

2011-12-26T11:55:00.000-08:00

We planned a trip with Brad's family to California. Poor Miles got sick for a day and had to miss the trip to Disneyland. I stayed behind with him while Brad took Mars to Disneyland. Miles and I had a day in together watching Christmas movies, playing UNO and SkipBo, reading books, and sleeping. We also took a little trip to Target to get a Lego set to put together. Miles was sad about Disneyland, so we decided that we'd look on Craig's list to see if we could find discount tickets to Legoland for him...we found some and spent our last day there together. Some of the other fun things that we did included going to the beach, the kids went Christmas caroling to our other villa next door, playing games, and going swimming. The kids had so much fun together. What a great trip!

Jingle Bells

2011-12-26T07:18:00.000-08:00

Marley and Miles's school classes go caroling each year to an assisted living home. Marley was asked to play the piano. She decided to play the songs Jingle Bells and Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer. Brad wrote out a simplified version of each song and helped her practice them. Marley spent much time preparing for her performance. Ms. Romie said that she did a wonderful job and was so confident and excited as she played her songs. We are so proud of Marley!

Mesa Temple Lights

2011-12-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

We met up with Brad's family and my sister Melanie and Asher to go see the temple lights this year. Brad always makes hot chocolate to bring along with marshmallows and candy canes. We love being on the temple grounds.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-26T06:44:00.000-08:00

We had such a fun Thanksgiving this year. We first met some cousins at the park to play while the boys played football. We played games and made turkeys. We then ate dinner at Brad's grandparent's house. All of his family gathers and meets there. They always rent a bouncy slide for the kids to play on. We then headed to my mom's house for dinner and to spend time with my family. The kids always enjoy playing with Asher and seeing aunties. We have so much to be thankful for!

My 33rd Birthday!

2011-12-25T21:01:00.000-08:00

I turned 33 on 11/22/11. I had a wonderful birthday! Brad and the kids planned a surprise party for me. I was blind folded as we drove to dinner at Outback and to Bass Pro Shop to do all of the fun kids Christmas things together there. It was such a perfect day:)

Stitches

2011-12-25T20:54:00.001-08:00

Poor Miles got hit in the face on accident with a hard plastic bat at school during recess. I took him to the emergency room and sure enough he needed to get 5 stitches. Miles was so brave while they gave him a shot to numb his lip. Brad and Marley came to bring him a Jamba Juice and play games until Miles was released. We were there from 1pm-7pm. In spite of being in the ER for so long, Miles and I enjoyed spending time together playing many games of tic tac toe, connect the dots, looking for items in I Spy books, and watching cartoons together. I am so thankful that he was alright and so brave.

Chickens

2011-12-25T20:49:00.000-08:00

Our chickens are getting so big! We are excited for them to start laying eggs in a month or so.

Cookies n Milk

2011-12-25T20:46:00.001-08:00

We enjoyed eating cookies and milk and playing Phase 10 with Papa Bennett!

Family

2011-12-25T20:37:00.000-08:00

We had such a great weekend with Papa Bennett, Asher, and Melanie. We had so much fun feeding the ducks and fishing at the lake, going to see the movie Puss and Boots, and riding on the Polar Express. It is so wonderful to spend time with family!

The Polar Express

2011-12-25T20:10:00.000-08:00

It was so much fun to take a trip to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus!

Veteran's Day Parade

2011-12-25T13:55:00.000-08:00

Miles's scout troop marched in the Mesa Veteran's Day Parade. We enjoyed going to the parade to cheer him on!

Halloween 2011

2011-12-25T13:20:00.000-08:00

Halloween is such a fun holiday! Marley decided to be a pirate this year and Miles decided the day before Halloween that he wanted to be a magician alternating with his ninja costume from last year. Here are some pictures from our school Halloween Mercado, pumpkin carving, Halloween parties and Halloween night.

Miles's Baptism

2011-12-25T12:55:00.000-08:00

Miles turned 8 this year and was baptized on October 22, 2011. He was so excited to ask Brad to baptize him and have his dad confirmed him. Miles asked grandpa Scott and Richard to be witnesses, great grandma Arline to give a talk on the Holy Ghost, and Marley to give the closing prayer. When our bishop met with Miles he asked him if he'd like to bear his testimony at his baptism. This is his sweet testimony of the gospel:

I bear my testimony that this church is true. I know that Jesus is true. I know that god is true. I love my family and my pets. I am thankful for everyone that I love. I know all of the prophets are true. I know the twelve apostles are true. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

We are sure proud of Miles and his decision to be baptized. He is a blessing to have in our family. We love his sense of humor and sweet spirit in our home. We love you Miles!

The Grand Canyon

2011-12-23T11:57:00.000-08:00

We decided that it would be fun to go camping over fall break. We began our journey to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It was absolutely beautiful. We went on a hike that was right on the edge of the plateau. There were gigantic squirrels, deer, and ravens. We took Dallas along with us. She enjoyed being outdoors. Marley and Miles completed the Jr. Ranger Program and received certificates and badges. We enjoyed playing games each night, cooking by the campfire, and exploring in the forest. We got creative with some of our cooking and even brought a frozen pizza and cinnamon rolls to cook in the dutch oven for Miles. It was an amazing experience to camp at the Grand Canyon!

Zions National Park

2011-12-23T11:41:00.000-08:00

Our trip to Zions National Park was amazing! When we arrived we drove through a tunnel inside the mountain that was a mile long. We set up camp at our camp ground and began to explore the area. The Virgin River was close by our camp site so we spent a lot of time down by the sandy river bed and water. We took the bus to different hiking stops and went on some of the most beautiful hikes that I have ever been on. We hiked up to all 3 of the Emerald Pools and to Weeping Rock. We stopped and took a break for snacks and some games of UNO. It was amazing to see how the animals in the park were not afraid of people. We were able to get so close to the deer and a squirrel even jumped on top of Brad's lap hoping for a snack. The kids completed their Jr. Ranger books and became Jr. Rangers. One of the requirements is going to a Ranger-Led program. We went and saw Fossil Fantastic with Ranger Barb. Marley and Miles knew so many of the answers to the questions. They both love learning about Science at school. It was an amazing trip!

Go Avatars!

2011-12-23T11:21:00.000-08:00

We decided to sign Miles up for soccer again this season. This was his 4th season of soccer. It was fun for him to be a part of another soccer team. We loved going to Miles's games and cheering him on. I enjoyed making his team's banner for this season too. Way to go Miles!

Vertuccio's Farm

2011-12-23T10:26:00.000-08:00

It's always fun to go to a farm in the fall. This year we went to Vertuccio's Farm. We had a fun time together. There were baby animals, games, a bounce balloon that was amazing, and fun kids activities to do. We decided to walk through the corn maze last. After walking through Brad had red and very itchy eyes that started to puff up rapidly. We quickly went to Walgreen's to get some Benadryl and eye drops. Poor Brad had a really bad allergic reaction. His face was puffy for days! I think next time we'll have to skip the corn maze!

M and M's Birthday Celebration!

2011-12-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

Marley and Miles decided to have a separate but also combined birthday party this year. The kids ate pizza together first and then Marley wanted to make crafts...headbands and purses with girlfriends with me while Miles was away with Brad and the boys playing laser tag. After the pizza, crafts, and tag all of the kids got together for a water balloon fight, to watch a movie, play tag, and eat ice cream Sunday's. What a fun birthday night!

Our First Anniversary

2011-12-23T08:53:00.000-08:00

On September 25, 2011 Brad and I celebrated our first anniversary. Brad planned a little get away to Rocky Point, Mexico for us. We enjoyed kayaking, fishing, eating Mexican food, relaxing by the beach and pool, shopping, and going to the aquarium. Brad actually brought a fishing pole out with us while we were kayaking and he caught 2 fish. One was a large Trigger fish. I was a little nervous that we'd tip over while pulling it aboard with us...and the teeth were quite scary too.

We also got to experience an aquarium in Mexico. It was simple and perfect. Brad was brave enough to let an octopus grab his finger and try to suck it in. I loved being able to touch sea turtles. We made sure to stay clear from the dogfish. By the beach we enjoyed watching birds dive in the water for fish. It was beautiful. We stopped by the market on the way home to grab some fish, clams, and shrimp to plan a fish fry with family for family night after we got home.

I feel so lucky to have been blessed to have Brad as my husband. He is so fun and wonderful. I believe that he was meant for our family and Heavenly Father was waiting for the right time to send him to us. We all adore Brad and can't imagine life without him.

Play Date!

2011-12-23T08:48:00.000-08:00

Marley enjoys playing with Haven and Brooklyn at school. The girls came over for a day of fun that included swimming, playing with American girls, and they topped it off with a dance party to Kids Bop. It is so fun to be blessed with such a sweet daughter!

Saguaro Lake

2011-12-23T08:29:00.000-08:00

One of Brad's friends, Brannon took us out for some fun on the lake. We enjoyed watching Brad wakeboard with his fancy jumps and flips. Marley and Miles loved riding in the tube, holding up the flag, and swimming. So fun!

September 11, 2011

2011-12-23T08:14:00.000-08:00

This year marked the 10th year since the tragedy that happened on September 11th in 2001. We decided to take the kids to a memorial that was held at Tempe Town lake. Each flag represented a person that died that day. Attached was a card with a story about them. It was amazing to read the acts of heroism that took place on such a devastating day for our country.

Payson Rodeo

2011-08-28T18:19:00.000-07:00

We thought it would be fun to go to the rodeo. There were bucking horses and steers, kids that rode on bucking sheep, barrel races, bull riding, roping, etc. It was fun to go to a rodeo!

Side Bangs

2011-08-28T18:16:00.000-07:00

Marley was so excited to get side bangs.

First Day of School 2011

2011-08-28T18:11:00.000-07:00

Marley is in third grade this year and Miles is in 2nd grade. We are all excited for the new school year!

Slide Rock/Sedona

2011-08-28T17:51:00.000-07:00

We decided to take a day trip to Sedona and Slide Rock a few weeks ago. It was so fun to be out in nature. Some of the highlights of the trip were Miles jumping off his first cliffs, Brad jumping off a very high scary cliff, a hike up the river, playing in the water and on the rock slides, watching Miles build up enough courage to try to slide on the rocks, and Marley chasing big butterflies. We had a fun day together.

Tortoise

2011-08-28T17:42:00.000-07:00

I am teaching with Ms. Hollie this year. It has been a lot of fun getting to know her better the past couple of weeks. She has a love for animals just as I do. Our poor little Otis didn't make it through the summer. However, this year we did get a new classroom pet tortoise named Taylor. Marley and Miles have enjoyed visiting Taylor in my classroom!

Piano

2011-08-28T17:36:00.000-07:00

M and M have had 3 official piano lessons so far with their new piano teacher. She lives just down the street so it is easy for the kids to walk over to her house for their lessons. It is amazing how quickly they are learning how to play the piano. I have really enjoyed listening to them practice.

Chef Marley

2011-08-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

Marley has always loved cooking with me in the kitchen. It is fun to see her learning how to follow recipes and cook on her own. On this particular morning she decided to make us her favorite cinnamon strudel muffins for breakfast. I can't believe how quickly Mars is growing up!

MCC Planetarium

2011-08-28T17:20:00.000-07:00

Every first Friday of the month MCC has a free show at the planetarium. The show this time was set to Pink Floyd music. It was amazing looking at the moon through the telescope, coloring space pictures, and watching the show. Afterwards we had to make a stop at DQ to end our fun night!

Dallas

2011-08-06T08:52:00.000-07:00

Brad told me a couple of months ago that a guy he works with was getting two Blackmouth Curr puppies from Texas and that they'd be ready in August. We didn't know if there would be one available for us, but sure enough there was one extra puppy in the litter and so we were able to have one. Brad drove to Texas with two other guys and picked up the puppies last weekend. Marley and Miles were so surprised when they got home to see our new family pet. I thought it would be fun to name the puppy a name associated with Texas...not only because Dallas was born there, but because I was born there too. I have a soft spot in my heart for Texas. Dallas is adorable and we are having so much fun with her!

Tea Party with Dallas

2011-08-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

Marley planned a little tea party for Dallas and served water and puppy chow. Marley enjoyed dressing Dallas up in some of her American Girl doll clothes. The little dress Dallas is wearing Mars and I made during spring break for one of her dolls. We invited Grant and Miles to come join the party.

Puppies

2011-08-06T08:28:00.000-07:00

Miles loves puppies. He has so many stuffed animal puppies that he keeps on his bed. My mom found one of my old pound puppies a year or so ago and it has been fun to pass it down to Miles. Miles introduced Dallas to his bed of puppies to play with.

Carrots

2011-08-06T08:11:00.000-07:00

Miles has a hard time eating different kinds of foods. He mainly likes the basic kids foods that include mac and cheese, hot dogs, grilled chicken, chicken nuggets, pizza, etc. We have him try new foods at dinner time even though it is a challenge for him. After trying carrots many many times Miles was able to eat his whole spoonful of carrots, spaghetti, and two apples. He was so proud of himself. I told him that if he ate his dinner that he could choose what we have the following night, but with that choice he would have to include some vegetables. I was surprised that earning dinner the next night helped him eat all of his carrots. Miles chose homemade Alfredo pasta, corn on the cob, and a basic salad with cucumbers, lettuce, and tomatoes. When Miles tries his vegetables and new foods, he has apple slices and a big glass of water handy. I am so proud of Miles!!

Paper Mache

2011-08-06T07:52:00.001-07:00

Marley and Joanna decided to make paper mache fish. Joanna went out of town shorty after and told Miles that he could have her fish to paint. Marley painted her fish into a purple tang and Miles chose a rainbow trout. It was a fun summer art project to do together.

Great Grandma Stott

2011-08-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

We decided to make chocolate chocolate chip cookies and cards to take to two of Marley's and Miles's great grandmas. We loved to visit great grandma Stott and great grandma Rawlins. I didn't get a picture at grandma Rawlins's house, but we did remember to get one with grandma Stott.

Family Reunion

2011-07-25T13:55:00.001-07:00

We had such a wonderful time at Brad's family camping reunion. We celebrated the marriage and life of Wilford and Shirley. They have been married for the past 60 years and have lived such amazing lives. We loved the nature/treasure hike, family activities, fishing, rhino rides, quad rides, motorcycle rides, nightly family games, card games, catching butterflies, wild turkeys, horned toads, cows, elk, filling our tent with balloons for Brad's birthday, making necklace rock friends, family meals, many dogs, smores, our trip to the cave, sleeping under the stars, climbing trees, etc. It was such a fun weekend! We feel so blessed to be a part of such a wonderful family.

hAPpy bIRtHdaY to Brad!

2011-07-25T13:43:00.000-07:00

Brad just turned the BIG 32 on July 22nd. We knew we'd be camping on his birthday so the kids and I decided to throw a surprise party for him the Tuesday before we left. Marley and Miles planned all of the details...BBQ, water balloon fight, ice cream with many yummy toppings, etc. The kids made a birthday sign and blew up balloons, and filled water balloons with their friends. The neighborhood kids were so excited and wanted to come so they all came back around 7:30pm for the surprise. When Brad got home he went to the backyard first and found many kids in the chicken coop...Tallen was wearing a birthday hat and so Brad asked him who's birthday it was...Tallen smiled big and suddenly Brad knew the party was for him. My favorite part of the night was having Brad in the center of a big circle of the kids that each had a water balloon in hand...They got Brad good!

OVERBOARD!

2011-07-25T13:39:00.000-07:00

Ship mates are overboard!! Marley and Miles enjoy swimming at Matix and Emeri's grandparent's pool. They have such an amazing pool!

Legos

2011-07-25T13:29:00.001-07:00

Miles loves to play Legos with neighborhood friends. Grant and Matix especially like to build Legos with Miles for hours. Miles and Matix made a ship and wanted me to take a picture of it to send into the Lego Magazine. They are hoping to win a prize or have their picture in the magazine.

Chicks

2011-07-25T13:07:00.001-07:00

We decided to get 4 chickens. Brad made such a cute home for our little chicks. Marley named her chick Ning Ning. Miles named his Nimrod. Brad named his Copy Tawn, and I named my chick Yellow. It has been so fun for all of the neighbor kids to come and play with them with Marley and Miles. M and M run outside to see them every morning when they wake up.

Friends

2011-07-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

Mars and Faith about to go for a night swim.

Book Worm

2011-07-25T12:58:00.000-07:00

Miles is our little book worm. He has a book in his hand most of the time. On the way to school each morning he reads from his latest chapter book. Currently he especially loves Geronimo Stilton books. He likes to read with Libby. When I snuck in to take a picture, I later realized that I caught Miles picking his nose.....Miles is still learning to use a tissue. I am not sure why he likes to pick his nose, but we have been working on helping him understand that it is yucky for quite some time now! Oh Miles!

Wild Horse Pass Resort

2011-07-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

My friend Sonia and I took our kids on a little overnight trip. We took a trip last summer and thought it would be fun to get together again for another trip this summer. It is always fun to catch up with Sonia and see her cute kids. Macie, Sadie, Marley, and Miles had a fun time playing together.

High Dive

2011-07-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

We went to a family/friend gathering that one of Brad's friends, Brannon and his wife Amanda, invited us to at Skyline High School. The kids enjoyed the water slide, water buckets and water fun, along with their first time on the high dive. Miles went on the high dive 14 times and Marley thought she would give it a try and got a little nervous when she got up to the top. The life guard came and helped rescue her down the ladder. Marley said that she wasn't quite ready yet for that high of a jump...I could understand completely. We had a fun night!

Sleep Over with Asher

2011-07-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun having Asher stay with us. Some of the fun things that we enjoyed were blizzards, Scooby Doo, reading books, swimming, Lego's, Wii, sleeping in sleeping bags, homemade mac and cheese, etc ... We loved spending time with Asher!

Isabella

2011-07-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

Isabella is a funny cat. I am surprised that I was able to sneak a picture of her. She LOVES Marley and will always go to her to let her know that she is hungry. She runs from Miles when she sees him...shhhh that is a secret. She also runs from me sometimes because I like to try and cuddle with her too and she doesn't think it is as fun as I do. She LOVES Brad and runs to him when she sees him....Brad is a brown noser to her. He plays with her all of the time. He plays a game with a blanket, with a red light, and gives her back rubs. His back rubs are the best so I know why she likes them so. We love our silly cat.

Lib

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

We like to look at Libby and say, "Let's go for a swim." She runs to the pool and takes a lap around. It is fun to swim with Libby.

Feed My Starving Children

2011-07-07T21:37:00.000-07:00

I signed up to have our family volunteer at a place called Feed My Starving Children. We dry packed meals made up of chicken, rice, vegetables, and soy. There were 52 volunteers that night. Asher is staying with us for a couple of days so it was fun to have him come along. At the end of the packing session we were able to pack enough meals to feed 6,000+ children. After the boxes are all packed up they say a prayer to help the food get to the children safely. The leaders asked if anyone would like to offer the prayer. Little Marley raised her hand and gave the most beautiful prayer. Of course I was crying. The kids each picked out a t-shirt. Marley wanted to make sure that she got a purple shirt which would pay enough money for a child to eat for a year. It was fun to do a service activity together tonight.

Dust Storm

2011-07-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

We were on our way home and looked behind to see the storm following us. Brad was at home on the roof so he took some pictures. Wow...it was amazing and a bit scary.

Karate

2011-07-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

My class had a karate fundraiser at the end of the school year so I decided to sign Marley and Miles up for a month of karate. They are so excited to try it out. They both enjoyed their first class and received their white belts.

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-05T07:37:00.000-07:00

We planned a cute little neighborhood parade and breakfast for the 4th of July. Marley and Miles delivered invitations a couple of weeks before the event. We weren't sure how many people would be in town, but we ended up having a great turn out....there were kids everywhere. Brad hooked up speakers to play patriotic music, the kids loved coloring 4th of July pictures and getting their faces painted. Brad was the leader of our cute little parade. We even made Libby a special collar and she ran right beside him. It made me laugh. We had such a nice day at home with cousins...Taylor and Brooklyn stayed for the day and neighborhood friends came and played. At one time we had 10 kids in the pool. We ended our day with fireworks in our culdesac. Our neighbors bought so many and let them off. We also got up on our roof to see fireworks close by. It was such a perfect day. I am so grateful to live in this country and to be blessed with such wonderful friends, neighbors, and for our little family.

MCC Musical Theater

2011-06-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

Every year for the past three summers Marley and Miles have taken a music class at MCC with their cousins Taylor and Kinley. They have so much fun practicing the songs, carpooling, and playing together for 2 whole weeks. Marley and Miles both had two solos and did such a wonderful job on them. They are quite the little performers!

Name That Tune

2011-06-30T19:54:00.000-07:00

We found a piano on Craig's List a week ago. This piano was made almost 80 years ago and is in perfect condition...Wow! I have been so excited! They are so expensive...but I think so important to have. I have wanted Marley and Miles to take piano lessons for so long, but wasn't able to get a piano....we waited and found the perfect one for us. Brad plays a little, so he has been teaching the kids and will continue to teach them the basic things before they begin lessons. It has been so fun to have Brad sit and play the hymns in our house and for us to gather around the piano and sing songs from the children's hymn book together. It's amazing how quickly music brings the spirit in our home.

Arizona Grand Hotel

2011-06-30T19:13:00.000-07:00

It was Grand. I booked a hotel deal that came up on Living Social Escapes a few months ago. We thought it would be fun to surprise the kids with a little night get away. We left a note in their bedrooms posted on their doors for them to see when they woke up in the morning. We packed up the car and headed out for our surprise destination. It was fun to hear all of the guesses along the way.

We had such a fun stay at the hotel. The water slides were huge. I thought I was going to die when I went down....I am afraid of heights so I closed my eyes tightly and told myself that I could do it. Haha...I know I am funny....but I was very scared. There was a wave pool, lazy river, 3 water slides, dancing, and a dive in movie night while sitting in our tubes. The kids even managed to see a friend from school there...he came around and played with us for a bit too. We filled the day with family fun!

Club House

2011-06-30T17:56:00.000-07:00

The kids enjoyed making a little clubhouse out of a large cardboard box. They started off in their pj's and as it began to get hotter throughout the morning, they ended up in their swim suits. They would take little breaks and jump in the pool for a bit to cool off and go back to work. Marley thought it was so fun to add curtains and fake flowers to the house. They are so creative!

Slip and Slide

2011-06-30T17:45:00.001-07:00

On your mark, get set, go... M and M love racing friends on the slip and slide.

Yard Work

2011-06-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

Brad and Miles mowing the lawn. I had to snap a picture because they looked so cute working on the yard together.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-30T16:59:00.000-07:00

Brad is naturally such a wonderful dad. Since he first came into our lives two and a half years ago, I have enjoyed seeing how sweet he always is to Marley and Miles. Sometimes I watch him and get teary eyed because I have never seen a father be so selfless, patient, and kind to their kids. He is a one of a kind guy. We are so blessed to have him in our lives! Happy Father's day honey:)

Mini Marley and Miles

2011-06-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

I was looking to see if there were any pictures on my computer and came across some old pictures of Marley and Miles. It brought back good memories of when they were little. Some that I found were of their first teeth cleaning dentist appointments, bath time with Libby, Marley's first dance recital, Marley with her preschool teacher Mrs. Lunt, etc. I thought I would post some because they were such cute little munchkins. They are growing up so fast. I am so thankful for all of the time I have been blessed to spend with them for the past 7 and 8 years. They are such sweet kids!

Summer Swim Days

2011-06-16T16:15:00.000-07:00

We love having a pool. Mars and Miles jump in and swim throughout the day. It is also fun to swim with neighbors, Libby, and Brad is a favorite too. The kids from the neighborhood ask when Brad is getting home so they can swim with him.....his cannon balls make a BIG splash.

Diamondbacks Game

2011-06-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

Miles and Brad love baseball so we thought it would be fun to go to the D-backs game on Memorial Day. Marley was so cute and brought along a little bag with card games, mad libs, and coloring items....just in case...she is always prepared. I think that one of the highlights of the night was giving licorice to a homeless man outside the stadium...Marley talked about how good she felt inside for days after. We had a fun date night!

Drive In's

2011-06-16T15:58:00.000-07:00

What fun to go to the movies with friends.

Otis

2011-06-16T15:55:00.000-07:00

We are babysitting Otis over the summer. He is my classroom pet. Mars and Miles love to put him in the bathtub and watch him swim. I have always been an animal lover...the more the merrier.

Disco Day

2011-06-16T15:51:00.000-07:00

Marley and Miles had disco day on their last day of school. Marley and her good friend Haven planned on having us and her family meet at Target right after school to pick out some fun matching clothes for the girls to wear. They were so excited to dance the day away together.

Gardening

2011-06-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

We have planted such a fun garden in our backyard this past Spring. Marley and Miles have enjoyed planting fruits and vegetables and taking care of the garden. Everyday they run outside to see what is ready to pick. We have tried out planting many items such as...squash, swiss chard, lettuce, tomatoes, cantaloupe, green beans, snap peas, watermelon, corn, strawberries, artichokes, and cucumbers. Yummy!

Mission Beach

2011-06-16T15:24:00.000-07:00

Fun.

Mormon Battalion Historic Site

2011-06-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

The Mormon Battalion was amazing. There was an interactive story that the kids were able to participate in as we moved from room to room and watched clips from a movie. I can't believe how many times I have been to San Diego and have never walked into that building. The kids were able to see how they made bricks, panned for gold, used a well to get water, etc. The sister missionaries said that they know my brother Kris who is serving a mission in San Diego right now. They asked me if I'd like to write him a letter that they could deliver. It was such a fun spiritual family experience to have together.

Sea World

2011-06-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

We hadn't been to Sea World since the kids were very young and Brad hadn't been in many years, so we thought it would be fun to go again. It is amazing how much it has changed in the past 5 years. Sesame Street is now at Sea World. There were rides and an Elmo 4D show. Even the animal shows were completely different. Marley's favorite part of the day was being able to feed the dolphins and Miles loved going on Atlantis twice. We loved it and had such a fun day!

La Jolla, San Diego

2011-06-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

It is always fun to explore at the beach. The kids loved being able to see all of the seals so close and to be able to see them swimming nearby in the water. The water was pretty cold so we enjoyed looking for crabs while Brad decided to jump in the water and snorkel for a little bit. Miles found a pretty big crab and came running to me with it on his shovel. He was so excited!

Belmont Park, San Diego

2011-06-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

We decided to take a little family trip over to San Diego at the beginning of May. The kids loved going on the rides at Belmont Park over and over again. We started off our morning on rides and then went to La Jolla for the afternoon and ended up back at Belmont park for a night of fun on the rides. Miles has a sensitive stomach and had to throw up after we left in the morning and at night. We told him that he could do the rides that were less spinney instead, but he insisted on doing what Marley wanted to do. Brad and I had to sit out on some of them...it's amazing how dizzy you can get. Miles was so excited to announce that we went on the roller coaster 9 times. I loved seeing the kids ride on the carousal...they are getting so old, this may have been the last time...Mars was a bit unsure as she ran to her horse and Miles surprised us by jumping on his ostrich so excitedly... Seriously, Belmont park was like Disneyland to the kids.

Girls Date Night

2011-06-16T08:37:00.001-07:00

Marley and I had a fun date night while the boys were at fathers and sons. Jason and Matix drove up with Brad and Miles. They said that it was a fun time. Marley and I went to dinner at Pei Wei, Marley's choice, and then I surprised her with ice skating. She was skating circles around me. Afterwards, we got ice cream at Neilson's and watched a movie. We ended our night with a slumber party in my bed. I love the time that I get to spend with my sweet little gal.

Easter

2011-06-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

We always enjoy going to Aunt Teresa's for a family egg hunt, breakfast, and dying eggs the Saturday before Easter Sunday. This year the Easter bunny hid Miles's basket on a shed in the backyard and Marley's basket was in the back of Brad's truck bed. It is always fun to see the kids run around the house to look for their baskets on Easter morning.

Easter Pageant

2011-06-16T08:04:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun going to the Easter Pageant with some neighborhood friends this year. Crystal, Jason, and two of their kids, Matix and Emeri, met up with us. Matix and Emeri are twins that birthdays fall right in the middle of Marley's and Miles's. They have so much fun playing together.

Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt

2011-06-16T07:50:00.000-07:00

We have started a new family tradition of hosting a neighborhood flashlight egg hunt every year. It was such a hit this year. Brad hid the eggs in many different front yards throughout our culdesac while I had the kids do stretches in our backyard to get ready for the event. It was so fun to see all of these little kids searching for eggs with flashlights.

GO Braves!

2011-06-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

Miles loved playing coach pitch baseball this year. He learned so much. It was so fun for him to have Brad as his coach. The assistant coach played for the Giants and Brad thought I should add that he punched Berry Bonds. Boys... Marley and I enjoyed going to every game to cheer him on. Miles had such a fun season.

Pat's Run

2011-06-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun participating in Pat's Run together as a family. My dad was in town that weekend so it was fun to have him come along with us. Marley and Miles loved doing activities with Papa Bennett while Brad and I were running our race and then Marley and Miles enjoyed the kid's race into the stadium afterwards. When we got in the stadium Brad made sure to show us where he scored the winning touchdown for the state championship his senior year of high school. I think it is cute when he talks about his football days. What a fun day together!

SING IT

2011-06-15T14:42:00.000-07:00

Marley and Miles did an awesome job at our school music performance. Miles was so excited to hold the big E. Brad said it was so cute to see him looking around in the audience for him...eventually he found where Brad was sitting and had the biggest grin. Marley sang her little heart out and did a wonderful job. She looked so cute up on stage. It was great to be a part of all the fun and to get to see Marley and Miles backstage during the show. We celebrated with In and Out burgers and fries afterwards. Way to go M and M!!

Hot Air Balloon Ride

2011-03-15T13:06:00.000-07:00

We thought it would be a fun date to go on a hot air balloon ride together. It was absolutely amazing and so peaceful way up high in the sky.

Irish Balloonists' Prayer:

The winds have welcomed you with softness.
The sun has blessed you with his warm hands.
You have flown so high and so well that
God has joined us together in laughter and set us
gently back into the loving arms of Mother Earth.

Nerf Guns

2011-03-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

Marley and Miles enjoy playing Nerf guns after school with friends in the neighborhood. One child has the Nerf gun and must hit a friend and then they are it. There are usually 6-7 kids running around outside together. Here is a pic of Miles and Matix running away from some of the girls. It is so fun to have so many kids in our neighborhood!

Valentine's Day

2011-03-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

For Valentine's Day each year we have a special family breakfast together. We light heart candles and make heart pancakes with sprinkles along with other yummy foods. This year puppy, Lilly Ann, Sophie, and Maci ate with us too. Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays!:)

Payson

2011-03-15T12:18:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a little weekend trip to Payson with Brad's family in January. There was an amazing park that we spent a lot of time at with the kids. Brad and I were able to sneak away for a little hike in the mountains while Mars and Miles enjoyed playing card games and having their own room to hang out and watch Sponge Bob in with Taylor and Brooklynn. It's always fun to get away to the mountains!

Happy New Year 2011

2011-02-21T12:14:00.000-08:00

We are all excited for a wonderful new year:)

Cabin Trip

2011-02-21T11:44:00.000-08:00

We love to go to cabins. After Christmas we went to Brad's aunt Tressa and uncle Rich's cabin. It was so fun to get away together.

Christmas Morning

2011-02-21T11:33:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas morning. Santa got Marley a bed and Miles a desk this year. Miles opened his present from Marley, Marley opened hers from Miles, and Brad and I opened ours from the kids. It is always fun to buy for each other. After we opened presents we went to Brad's parent's house and then to his grandparents for the yearly waffle breakfast. We went to my mom's for the afternoon. It was nice to spend time with so much family. What a wonderful Christmas day!

Christmas Eve

2011-02-21T11:17:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Eve Eve we went to Brad's family's Christmas gathering. He has many relatives that get together. Brad sang a song with his brothers and Marley and Miles sang songs with all of the kids. We had such a fun time. We went to my mom's for Christmas Eve dinner and a white elephant gift exchange. We then went home and did our family traditions. The kids put out special reindeer food and carrots, frosted cookies for Santa and made notes, opened their new Christmas PJ's and then we all snuggled in our bed to read the Night Before Christmas. We heard Santa's bells at the end of the story, so the kids quickly snuggled down to go to sleep. The magic of Christmas Eve is so fun.

Trains

2011-02-21T11:10:00.000-08:00

We love going to eat at Tia Rosas together. The owner is actually in our ward and in our neighborhood. We have a new family tradition to go and see the trains he has in his backyard during the Christmas season.

Santa

2011-02-21T10:59:00.000-08:00

We had fun on our family date to Bass Pro Shop to meet Santa and play games:)

Our New Home

2011-02-21T10:47:00.000-08:00

We found a home that we fell in love with in a cute little neighborhood in Mesa. We had been looking at houses for months and finally found this gem. After discovering the house at the end of October, things moved along quickly and we were able to move in by December 1st. The kids have enjoyed having so many friends their age to play with.:)

Flat Iron

2011-02-21T10:37:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite hikes is Flat Iron. Before I met Brad I would do this hike at least once a month. It is a challenging hike, which makes it fun. Brad had never been on this hike so we decided to spend Thanksgiving morning on the mountain. We had such a fun time together!

Driving Range

2011-02-21T10:29:00.000-08:00

It is fun to go to the driving range together. Miles has enjoyed learning how to golf. Marley spent most of the time chasing a little bunny in the parking lot. She was hoping to have a new pet.

Marley's Baptism

2011-02-21T10:06:00.000-08:00

Marley's baptism day was perfect. She was so excited to have her dad baptize her, Brad comfirm her, grandpa White and Geoff be the witnesses, and have me say the closing prayer. I am so proud of her for her decision to be baptized. We love having Marley as part of our family:)

Marley wrote her testimony in her baptism book: I'd like to bare my testimony. I know this church is true. I believe in Jesus. I love my family and my pets. I will always CTR. I will make someone happy if they are sad. I will always try to be like Jesus Christ.

Halloween week!

2010-11-11T07:14:00.000-08:00

We had a fun filled Halloween week....cookie decorating, pumpkin carving at at the Malone's, Mercado at school, A couple of friend's Halloween parties, Our ward Halloween party with Ashley, Mike, and Mia, and of course trick-or-treating for UNSF! The kids were so excited to collect money for UNSF while they were trick-or-treating. Marley collected $15 and Miles collected $17. It was fun to hear the kids tell people that they were collecting money so other children can have medicine when they are sick, for mosquito nets to protect kids from bugs, and for clean water. They were beaming when they came to school with their filled boxes!

Halloween Mercado

2010-11-11T07:04:00.000-08:00

It was time for Halloween Mercado again this year at school. The kids look forward to wearing their costumes, shopping for fun things in classrooms, spending time with their friends, and working shifts at their booths. It is so fun to be a teacher at Marley and Miles' school. I love that I can see them throughout the day!:)

Pumpkin Carving!

2010-11-11T06:56:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun pumpkin carving over at the Malone's home! Marley drew her own cute cat face...and Brad helped with the carving. Miles found a picture in a book to use for his pumpkin. He kept making his face look like his pumpkin.....he was very entertained! Here are some of the pictures of our fun FHE night:)

Miles' 7th Birthday Party!

2010-11-11T06:41:00.000-08:00

Miles was so excited to have a rocket launching birthday party. Miles loved making the rockets with Brad before the big day. We had the party at a retention basin to allow enough room for all of the launches. Each child was able to do the take off switch. The kids would go running after each of the rockets and come back for the next launch. We weren't sure how many launches they would want to do...they used all 10 of the engines. The kids also built little airplanes and had a balancing on the head race, throwing race, and girls against boys race. Miles requested all of his favorities...orange pop, pizza, and Oreo cookie cupcakes. In the end the kids enjoyed a water grenade toss and fight. What a fun party!:)

Marley's 8th Birthday Party

2010-11-11T06:25:00.000-08:00

Marley really wanted a slumber party this year for her birthday. A couple of her close friends have had slumber parties, so it was finally her turn. We planned so many fun things to do...nail painting, making headbands, necklaces, Just Dance, etc. Miles planned on leaving the party with Brad to do a boys night out, put a girls keep out sign on his door, and was ready to go until the girls arrived... He quickly changed his mind and enjoyed being part of the slumber party! It was so fun to watch Brad paint nails and help the girls made their headbands! What a fun birthday party!:)

Our Wedding Reception

2010-11-02T22:58:00.000-07:00

Our wedding reception was beautiful! Rachel Earl took our wedding reception pictures. My good friend Ashley also took some fun pics too.:)

We had so many people help with our wedding. Thank you to all who made our special day so PERFECT! It was so fun to have so many kids at our reception. Marley and Miles danced the night away with many friends. Miles was so cute and sooo Miles...he lost his tie at the temple, wanted to wear his church shoes with no socks and so he ended up getting blisters so we thought flip flops would be perfect for him to wear for the reception and he managed to loose buttons on his shirt too. Miles makes us smile...he is one of a kind! It was so fun to watch Marley with all of her girlfriends from school, cousins, and friends....she truly danced the night away! We had such a special day!

Thank you to all of our friends and family that traveled near and far to be with us for our wedding celebration!:)