Harris Family

Happy to be 5!

2010-05-31T23:43:00.000-07:00

Mackenzie was so happy to turn 5. She just couldn't wait. She is such a sweet girl and she is definitely my fire ball. She is a very spirited girl and I love her for that. She has so many talents and so much energy, it will be fun to see what this girl will be. I know Heavenly Father has a plan for her and it will be great. I am so proud to be her mom. She makes me laugh, she teaches me patience and keeps me on my toes. I love her smile, her competitive nature and her willingness to help me in anyway, most of the time. She is such a blessing to our family. We love you Mackenzie Lynn!

Taya, Mackenzie and Mia at our family birthday party.

Sweet Cousins!

We had an Eloise party. It was so fitting for Mackenzie.

She reminds me of Eloise. It was so fun!

Happy Birthday!

Paco and Sunshine

2010-02-19T00:17:00.000-08:00

Our newest members of the family are Paco and Sunshine. I never thought we would get birds again but we gave in, actually, Rich gave in, I just went along with it. They are nice birds and all the kids love them, even Ryker. He loves to hold them, even if they scratch up his arms.

Special Delivery

2010-02-19T00:10:00.000-08:00

I know this looks mean. But Ryker loved playing in the bag and Madison thought it was so funny. Yes, those are Ryker's feet hanging at the bottom of the bag.

Snow Day

2010-02-18T23:59:00.000-08:00

This was one of the first snow days of the year. The kids really wanted to build a snowman, so I gave in and got the winter stuff out. They had so much fun and Ryker didn't know what to do with all the snow. He mostly sat in it and ate it. He looked so cute!

1st Snow

2010-01-01T22:42:00.000-08:00

Ryker's 1st snow that he could actually see and enjoy. He was mesmerized and just babbled and pointed out the window. It was so cute. We had a big snow storm on the same day we were carving pumpkins. It was a great day to spend indoors together as a family.

Pumpkin Carving

2009-12-31T00:32:00.000-08:00

It is our tradition to carve pumpkins together as a family and make a day or night of it. We had so much fun and Rich really got into it with the girls. Everyone was able to carve thier own pumpkins, even Kenzie. We also bake the seeds in the oven and eat them. We all love it.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-12-31T00:18:00.000-08:00

Mackenzie has the cutest preschool teacher. Mrs. Heidi is always doing really fun things with her class. On this day we all went to the pumpkin patch. All of the kids got to pick out a pumpkin and got through a corn maze. They had so much fun and so did I. Ryker just wanted to sit in the dirt and play and sometimes he just laid in it. Typical boy.

Our Soccer Girl

2009-12-30T23:40:00.000-08:00

In the Fall, as a very last minute idea, I signed Kenzie up for Soccer. She had been asking me since the Spring. Well it was a great idea, because we discovered that she loved it and it turns out she is pretty good at it. I know they are only 4 years old, but she was on that ball every second it was in play. She especially loved to score and did it often. At the end of the season, the coach said to her, "when you make it to the World Cup, I will be there". She had no idea what he said, but I thought it was cute. It's funny because ever since she was in soccer, if she sees someone on T.V running she will say, "I can run faster". She is probably right, that girl can book it. She has a lot of confidence that I hope she will keep forever.

Halloween 2009

2009-12-30T23:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am trying to blog again. I know it has been awhile, but this next year I will try to keep up with it. This year we wanted to be the Wizard of Oz family. Ryker was the lion, Mackenzie was Glenda, Macie was Dorothy, Madison was our adopted nerd daughter(She wanted to be twins with her BFF, Karli), Isabella was the Wicked Witch (our niece), I was the Scarecrow and Rich was supposed to be the Tin Man, but had to work. He did go trick or treating with us, just not in costume. We had so much fun. Here are a few of our pictures. Enjoy!

The girls were playing dress up. Mackenzie really wanted

to be a witch and Glenda. So she dressed up like a witch

everyday. The best of both worlds.

Mackenzie and Elle ready for their preschool party and parade

Ryker and I at our Ward Party

Madison and her friends

Everyone at Nana and Papa's Trunk or Treat

The Wizard of Oz Family

Mackenzie as Glenda

Ryker the Lion

Manners Day

2009-07-02T23:36:00.001-07:00

For Valentine's Day Madison had Manner's Day at school. She did not want to go. She had to sit with a boy and use her manners. The boy had to get her food, pull out her chair, clear her food and some had to lock arms and walk to lunch. She said she didn't like it, but secretly I think she did. They were so cute and smiley. I just had to surprise her at school and take some pictures. Don't worry I wasn't the only mom there. She is growing up way to fast. What cuties!

Valentine's Day

2009-07-02T23:18:00.000-07:00

For Valentine's Day the kids got these stuffed dogs from Abuelita and Papi. They loved them and still do. However, Ryker had never seen anything so big. He was just not sure about it and took awhile to warm up. Eventually he did, it was so funny.

Bowling with Daddy

2009-07-02T23:00:00.000-07:00

I needed a serious break, so Rich took the girls bowling. They had so much fun and they did great. Fond memories.... (Oops! this posting is supposed to go after Kenzie's broken arm. Oh well)

Nothing stops this girl, not even a broken arm.

2009-07-02T22:37:00.000-07:00

So here is Mackenzie in one of her famous photo shoots. Even though her arm is broken she still wants to be in front of the camera. She picked out her own outfit and shoes all by herself and just had to have pictures of it. She loves the camera. So a few days before this photo shoot, she decided to do handstands off of the side of my bed and broke her wrist. I knew she would be my first to break a bone, but I didn't think she would be this young, oh well, it didn't slow her down.

Yummy!

2009-07-02T22:30:00.000-07:00

Carrots and mustard anyone? Hmmm, very interesting.

2009-07-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

Wow how time flies! It has been 6 months and I cannot believe how far behind I am on blogging. So here I go again playing catch up. I thought it was appropriate to start with pictures of dancing. Why, you ask? Because I think that is what my girls do most. They were practicing for some dance competitions and a recital. What fun we have!

Ryker is a super star

2009-01-26T00:31:00.000-08:00

Ryker is the most sought after person in our house. Everyone wants him, he's like a live baby doll to the girls. The girls take turns playing and helping with him. It is a good thing he is so easy going.

I turned my back for a minute and poor Ryker

got a serious makeover. The first of many, I am

sure, in years to come.

Kenzie loves to climb into his crib and
play with him. He loves it.

Rock Stars!

Macie just wanted to feed him. He was

a mess, but she got most of it in.

Karli and Madison love to play with

him.

Ryker at 5 months

2009-01-26T00:19:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite pictures. Yes there

is a little bit of drool, but he is so cute.

This was the first time we spiked his hair.

Christmas 2009

2009-01-25T23:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas is always so exciting. I am just like a little kid. I just love the anticipation that the kids have when they come into our room on Christmas morning. This year we actually slept in until 8. We being Rich, Maddie, Macie, Ryker and I. Usually we all go out to the family room together, however, Kenzie thought she should check it out before anyone else woke up. She came into our room around 8 to wake us up. She was done playing with the doll house that Santa had left and was ready to open presents. So we did.

Christmas Eve - The traditional milk and cookies

for Santa. We couldn't pour the milk until after the girls

were in bed. Kenzie thought it would be warm by the time

Santa got there.

Ryker's only toy from Santa. It was all he needed.

Wow! What a great Christmas!

The girls sitting in a comfy chair from Santa.

Yes, Mackenzie is in a bathing suit. She did have really

cute Christmas P.J's on, they only lasted for about 20 min.

Kenzie got this outfit from her Abuelita and Papi.

She just couldn't stop modeling.

Christmas dinner at Grandma and Grandpa's.

Christmas with Nana and Papa

2009-01-25T23:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas with Nana and Papa is always full of chaos and fun. I just had to add this in for my own purposes, even though it was a month ago. Anyway, we always enjoy our little get togethers and this year was no exception.

Papa and Ryker just chillin out.
So sweet.

Big kids table

Little kids table

We danced.....

and danced

Finally it was present time. The kids just
couldn't wait.

All the little girls got the cutest dolls.
By the way, out of 11 grand children there
are 9 granddaughters.

Merry Christmas from Disneyland!

2008-12-21T23:20:00.000-08:00

On December 6th we took off to sunny California. It was so much fun and perfect weather. We first visited family and friends and then met up with 2 other families from Utah ,who we are good friends with. We stayed in Anaheim and had 4 day hopper tickets to Disneyland and California Adventure. The weather couldn't have been better, 75 degrees everyday and it wasn't too crowded. December is really a great time to go to Disneyland. Anyway, by the end of the 4 days the kids were done with Disneyland. We went all day and into the night, it was exhausting, but so fun. Here are a few fun pictures to share.

Visiting Abuelita and Papi

(Photos courtesy of Mackenzie)

Father and son(so cute!)

Baby Rich and Baby Chad

Brady's Birthday Party!

We went to Rich's best friends little boy's birthday.

Almost all the kids in our group, 3 of the boys were

on a ride.

Goofin around with Goofy

Chillin out in Minnie's house.

Kenzie couldn't go on one of the rides, so we ate

cotton candy instead.

Of all the rides at California Adventure we just

had to go on the Merry-go-round.

By the end of the night the kids couldn't even eat

dinner. We had another one in another booth asleep, also.

Kenzie just had to have a picture with Mirabell

Cow. She has never even seen her, she just thought

she looked pretty.

BFF's at Disneyland, could it be more fun!

This time she fell asleep as soon as her head hit
the pillow. Only a few seconds or so.

The Buzz Lightyear ride is highly recommended.

Rich and Maddie got to go up and dance with the

Highschool Musical group. It was really funny.

(Not the real Highschool Musical group)

What a trooper! This is a true experienced Disneyland mom. Baby on the hip, one on the shoulders and a camera around her neck. You go girl!

Never a dull moment....

2008-12-04T00:07:00.000-08:00

I haven 't blogged in awhile and thought I would share a few pictures from our busy and fun life.
There is always someone willing to get in front of the camera, so why not take the picture and share. So did anyone else shop on Black Friday? Let me know how it went for you. I went at 3:30 am and braved Walmart first. Was it worth it? Maybe not. People there are not nice. At 5am you are given the go and everyone just rips into piles of stuff. It was crazy and a little painful. I don't think Walmart will be on my agenda next year, but I will go again to other stores and brave the crowds for the awesome deals. I hope everyone had an enjoyable Thanksgiving. I know I did. I'll have to share our Thanksgiving highlights at a later post. Until then TTFN.

The girls right after a bath

Kenzie and Elle after pre-school

Whoops! There goes Elle.

Always has a smile for the camera

Macie learned how to jump rope and now loves it.

Kenzie and Macie are so sweet together

Max is Lost!

2008-11-16T15:50:00.001-08:00

We lost Max! But we found him, whew! On Friday in my crazy rush to get the girls out the door I told Kenzie to let Max out to go potty. Well, Max digs and gets out of the yard if he is left out for to long. Guess what, I forgot about him until about 10am. I went out and called for him and no Max. Usually Max comes back within an hour or so, this time he didn't. Around noon I decided I had better go and look for him. After about an hour of driving around and calling for Max and wasting my free time I got pulled over. So I went home. I was really worried and decided to call all the animal shelters I could and some neighbors as well. That evening we made some fliers and the next morning Rich put them up. Still nothing. That afternoon the kids went and put some more fliers up and an hour later I got the call. A lady in my neighborhood had him. She also has a female dog, that is in heat and Max is not neutered, you do the math. So Max came home a very happy dog. Needless to say he has an appointment this week to get fixed and I guess we'll find out in a few months if he is going to be a father. So that is our story of Max. It will be a very Happy Thanksgiving now that he is home. We love Max very much, including Rich.

Ryker 3 months old

2008-11-14T23:05:00.000-08:00

Ryker hit the 3 month mark on November 8th and what a cutie. He always knows how to make us all smile. What joy he brings to our family.

Let it snow and snow and snow!

2008-11-10T10:57:00.000-08:00

Kenzie just couldn't believe her eyes when she woke up last week and there was about 5 inches of snow on the ground. All morning she asked to go and play in it and finally I just let her. She played for about 30 min. and then got cold and came in. Oh what fun!

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-10T08:47:00.001-08:00

I know Halloween was over a week ago, but I just had to share these pictures. We had a lot of fun and it was the first time our whole family dressed up together, even the dog. Enjoy!

Ceasar and Cleopatra, a rockin witch, a little monkey, a prisoner(so appropriate for our dog, Max), a sweet angel and a sassy kitty

What a cute monkey!

Papa and Nana came by for a visit.

Papa scared all the kids with his spooky mask, but they still love him.

Way too much candy!

Maddie and Karlie were BFF witches

My crazy friends and I at the kids Halloween parade.

Ben even got into the spirit of Halloween.

Fall Fun!

2008-11-03T00:14:00.000-08:00

Witches Night Out

2008-11-02T22:42:00.000-08:00

This year we decided to go to Witches Night Out at Gardner Village. It was so much fun! We dressed up like witches, some more then others, and had a great time. It is so fun to see all of the women and a few men get really into it. After enjoying the festivities a bit we did some shopping at the little unique shops, then headed home. What a fun night!

We just had to have a picture with these ladies

(it took them 4 hours to look this way)

Me, Karen, Jen and Heather
Witchy Women!

30 years old! Wow!

2008-10-19T23:57:00.000-07:00

On October 16th I turned 30. Now, I was not going to blog about this, but this is kind of a journal for me and 30 is a huge milestone. So here we go. It really was a great day. My husband being the romantic that he is decided to spoil me. The morning of the 16th he sent me to a spa for a massage, facial and pedicure. He took over the kids and house, including Ryker, so that I would not worry at all. Of course I still called every hour, I know I'm a spaz. Anyway, when I got home he had Kelle take the girls and he was getting ready to leave with Ryker. I was a little shocked, you would think that after being with the kids all day he would be ready to run. Well when I walked into the bathroom to shower there was a note on the mirror. It read something like,"be ready and in the car at 5pm." So at 5 I went to the car where another note waited on the window. From there I was taken on a really fun treasure hunt. It took me to all the places I hung out as a teen. From my high school to my church to the place I used to work (outback steakhouse) and then some. Sometimes I was to ask for someone and sometimes balloons marked the spot, but at each place there was a clue, a gift and a red rose. I finally reached the end of my journey with this little note attached,"You're almost at the end of your fun quest for treasure, I hope you have found it a delight and a pleasure. Your journey is so close to being called complete, just one more stop to go before we hook up to eat. Go to the place where cool parents live and interior decoration is without flaw, and where they have adopted me as a super-cool son-in-law. They have Ryker so feed him if you need to, it's part of the deal, but meet me at 7 at Asian Star for you delicious birthday meal. I will be waiting for you there, I can't wait for us to meet, when you get there just ask Gary for your table and seat." There is more to the note and for my eyes only. Anyway, I went to Asian Star and he was there with 6 more red rose to add to the 6 I had received. It was an amazing day. I am so lucky to have such a great husband. I really don't know how he does it. I just love him!
I have had a lot of people ask, so how does it feel to be 30? It really feels great. I have accomplished so much in my last 30 years. I really don't regret anything and I feel truly blessed to be where I am. I have 4 beautiful kids and an awesome husband and really that is what matters most in life. I feel like I have learned a lot and I also have a lot to learn. There is more that I would like to accomplish in my life and I will in time. My goal this year is to slow down and have fun with my family. I think sometimes we get caught up in our day to day grind that we forget to enjoy life and those around us. Hopefully I can accomplish this goal. Here are few pics from my Birthday.

Dinner with the family to celebrate mine and Gabe's Birthday

My darling kids! My accomplishments!

Go UTES!

2008-10-19T23:48:00.000-07:00

Rich has been getting tickets to the U of U games and taking one of the girls each time, since I can't go with Ryker. The last game was Macie's turn and apparently it was the best game in like 25 years. They rushed the field and had a really great daddy/daughter date. This time was Maddie's turn. She was so excited and just couldn't wait. The Utes ended up winning and they also got to rush the field. Next time it will be Mackenzie's turn, maybe. A 3 year old at a 3 hour football game might not go over well, we'll see.

Just hanging out

2008-10-19T23:32:00.000-07:00

I love sharing pictures of the girls playing happily together and they love seeing themselves on the blog. So Enjoy!

They wanted to pretend sleep. Kenzie had a hard time keeping a straight face.

The school was holding a contest called "Reflections" and the theme was "WOW!". The kids had to submit a drawing, photograph, poem, etc.... to enter the contest. The girls had already entered a photograph, but wanted to enter a painting. I'm proud of them, they did a great job.
Maddie and her best friend, Karli, really let their artistic side shine through.

Even Mackenzie got into it.

What a HAM!

2008-10-19T22:54:00.000-07:00

I really have so many pictures of Mackenzie. That is usually not typical for a 3rd child, but she is home with me most of the time and she always wants me to take her picture. So I do. Here are just a few for fun.

Kenzie's new hat

Halee and Kenzie eating lunch before preschool

Sofie and Kenzie after preschool

Sierra, Elle and Kenzie after preschool

Good Times......

2008-10-19T22:26:00.000-07:00

My little niece turned 2 on Oct. 6. So we all met at the park for some birthday fun. The kids had a blast swinging with Papa. I just had to take some pics. It isn't often that I get my dad to pose for pictures, so lately I have been making it a point to take pictures.

Our Lazy Sunday

2008-10-05T21:40:00.000-07:00

We had a very lazy Sunday and it was so great. Rich made crepes for breakfast and we watched General Conference. Then we got ready (kind of) and watched the 2nd session. However, in between sessions our friend Karen brought over the cutest gift. It was General Conference Bingo with treats and all. The girls really enjoyed watching this time and got treats whenever they got Bingo. Sorry, I forgot to take pictures but it was really fun. Thanks Karen! The rest of the day we just hung out. The pictures tell the rest of the story, what a great day.

Ryker had a very relaxing day, nothing out of the ordinary.

Ryker almost smiled

We harvested our tomato.

We found a preying mantis, Macie took this picture.

We read scriptures together.

And finally we had ice cream.

Family Home Evening

2008-10-03T00:25:00.000-07:00

Our family home evening consisted of two jars and a little object lesson. The topic was "love at home". After an afternoon of the girls arguing and fighting me on their chores, I decided this would be a great lesson. So I got these jars and labeled them. Each day the girls choose 3 jobs and they have to get them done before they go out and play. So far it has worked out okay. As for the kind words jar, when I catch them talking nice to each other then they get to add a marble. When the marbles reach a certain line then we get to decide on a fun activity together. This is a big hit. Hopefully this will work out. If anyone has any tips on the subject, please let me know.

The pictures of Kenzie below is Kenzie doing her chore. She always wants to do the dishes, so this time I let her. The dishwasher was empty and she loaded all of my dishes in. Of course without my help. She had to do it herself and she was so proud of it. Her poses and the crazy outfit that she picked out just add to the cuteness. Enjoy!

Creepiest Bug Ever!

2008-10-01T07:59:00.000-07:00

Last week we were eating dinner at my parents house and found this bug crawling across the back porch. Actually, Mackenzie found it and freaked out. Then all of us freaked out. It is ugly! It is a potato bug and they live on the back hill of their house. A few of us took a couple of days to get over it, it really freaked us out.

1st Day of Preschool

2008-09-28T22:09:00.000-07:00

Yes I know it is a little late, but I am still playing catch up. Anyway, I just had to post this because it was her first day of her long awaited preschool day. She was so excited to get up and get ready for school. The only problem was that school did not start until noon. So I had the whole morning to hold her off. When the time did finally come she did not want me to walk her there (the preschool is only 5 houses down at Mrs. Heidi's house). She did finally let me come and she loved posing for the pictures. However, when we got there and it was time for me to leave she didn't want me to go. So independent, but really she's a mama's girl.

Kenzie and I walking to school.

Stops for a little pose.

And another pose with the leg popped out.

Kenzie and Elle get to go to school together and they just love it.

Our babies are growing up;)

This was after school on my front porch. When I went to pick them up I was in my car. They wanted to walk home (it's only 5 houses and on the same side of the street as my house), so I thought good I will get there a little before them and take a picture of them walking up the sidewalk. That didn't happen, they thought I was racing them and they both ran all the way home and beat me. I didn't want to drive too fast. So I got this picture instead. So cute!

Just for fun!

2008-09-27T20:07:00.000-07:00

Madison's 8th Birthday

2008-09-16T23:33:00.000-07:00

Maddie turned 8 on August 17th. However, we celebrated on August 1st because of the baby being due a week later. Her birthday was really fun also. She had a pink pajama, spa, tea party. She invited 10 of her friends. We set up a spa on our back patio. We had a facial station, where they got facials and sipped on strawberry smoothies. We had a manicure station, where they got hand scrubs and painted nails. Last, we had a pedicure station, where they soaked in foot baths and got painted toes. When everyone was pampered we went inside and put cukes on the eyes. Then they all sat down to a delightful tea party. We had a real china tea set, pink punch and all pink treats. It was so sweet and fun. Madison really felt special and it was really fun to do. I have to say all the credit goes to my good friend, Heather. She is so creative and had all the ideas. We also had 4 other people helping. Including my dad who was in charge of making and serving strawberry smoothies. What a trooper! Not an easy party, but so worth it.

Maddie and her BFF
They all ate the cucumbers after.

What they ate. Yummy! The pink pajama party girls
The party is not over until the dancing begins!
The amazing and enduring helpers.

Macie's 6th Birthday

2008-09-16T23:04:00.000-07:00

Macie turned 6 on July 26th. She wanted an Enchanted Birthday and that is what she got. If you haven't seen the movie then this won't make any sense. Anyway, I hired a lady to play Giselle. I learned a lesson that day, always ask to see a picture if you are hiring a character. She was really sweet, but nothing like Giselle. None of the kids said anything and they all had a blast. Macie said "it was the most awesome birthday ever!" That makes it all worth it. I was 9 months pregnant and really feeling it by the end of this birthday. It was a memorable day in every way.

No we did not make the well just for the party
I had a friend who had it.

2008-09-10T22:17:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those weeks where the days get shorter and your list gets longer? Well I just had one of those for the last 2-3 months. I felt like it has been non-stop for both Rich and I. We are finally returning to normal, with a new baby of course. The pressure finally caught up with me about a week ago. I kind of broke down and lost it. I'm not ashamed to admit it. I really needed to just release the stress. I locked myself in my bedroom and had a good cry. Being a mom is a really high stress, non-stop, huge responsibility. It can be a challenge to keep it together all the time. I personally need to have some down time to keep myself sane and of course some good friends and family to talk to. For those who read my site, I know you can relate and I applaud all of you who make it through your day, just to do it again the next day. Anyway, enough of the heart to heart. Because of my crazy life lately I need to back track, not only for you to see, but for my own journal. So I hope you enjoy.

I wanted to put a picture up of myself and Ryker,
but guess who is always behind the camera? Yep,
me. I could not find one of just Ryker and I, except
the one that Kenzie took and it did not turn out. Oh
well, aren't they so cute?

Little Helpers

2008-08-22T19:21:00.001-07:00

I have so many helpers! How did I get so lucky? It is really fun to see the kids interact with him, they just can't get enough of him.

My sweet girls!

Ryan finally got his little boy cousin!

The first thing Elle says when she comes over

is,"can I hold your baby?".

Waking Up

2008-08-22T18:49:00.000-07:00

Our little Ryker is finally waking up. His eyes are open for longer amounts of time and it is so fun. He loves to just look around. The girls love it when he is awake because they can sing and talk to him. He is going to be so spoiled.

Ryker John Harris has arrived

2008-08-11T18:55:00.000-07:00

After months of waiting he is finally here and yes it is a BOY! Ryker John Harris arrived on 8/8/08 at 8:45 pm. He weighed in at 7 lbs 6 oz and 20 in. long. Here are some pictures of his first days.
As you all know we had a tough time choosing a name. I wanted one with meaning or history, Rich wanted one that he could yell out at football games. So we came up with Ryker John. Ryker means Richard in scandinavian and John is my Dad's middle name. We think it fits him perfectly. What a little miracle!

Max

2008-06-23T23:27:00.000-07:00

Max loves to be where you are. Believe me it is starting to get on my nerves when I turn around and he is right behind me. I trip over him all the time, however, he is a sweet little dog. He loves to sleep with the kids no matter what. I used to not like it and now I just love it. What a great companion for the girls.

Silly Kids

2008-06-23T22:54:00.000-07:00

All kids like to dress up, especially mine. Here are a few funny pictures of Madison, Macie, Mackenzie and yes even Elle. The parrot costume is very popular here. Every kid has put it on at some point in their lives, thanks to Grandma Judy who just had to buy it for the kids.

Summer is here

2008-06-23T22:38:00.000-07:00

When you see a child asleep with a popsicle hanging out of their mouth, you know that summer is officially here. Mackenzie's very favorite treat is a popsicle. Thank goodness I buy the sugar free ones or who knows what could happen. Rich and I came in from outside after meeting with our dog trainer and found Mackenzie on the couch just like this. Priceless.

On a separate occasion, Mackenzie was yet again eating a popsicle and Max just wouldn't leave her side. Hmmm, I wonder why? He is always looking for anything that may fall out of the kids mouths.

Circus Time

2008-06-23T22:19:00.000-07:00

While the kids were off track we decided to have a circus. Okay, Heather and Karen decided to have a circus, I just helped a little. I have some very fun and creative friends. Anyway, Heather was the ringmaster and all of the kids had to put on an act. We had a magic show, 2 balancing acts, a dance performance and an ugly lady performance. It was very exciting. After the show we did games and face painting. The kids had a blast! They all went home with a cupcake, a balloon and even cotton candy. Lucky ducks!

Making Cupcakes

2008-06-23T22:10:00.000-07:00

Yummy! Who can resist licking the bowl after making chocolate cupcakes. I can't and apparently the girls take after me. We made cupcakes for our circus. We were in charge of the cake walk.

More Dance Competitions

2008-06-22T20:17:00.000-07:00

This was Macie's first dance competition and Maddie's second. They both did great! Macie's group got a 100 out of 100 and Maddie's group got a 95 out of 100. I just had to throw out the numbers, partly because I want to remember what they were and also just being a proud mom. This time Madison had a jazz dance and a ballet dance and she brought her best friend, Karli. A long but fun day!

Papa and the girls

2008-06-22T20:01:00.000-07:00

The girls thought this was really cool. Papa got on the tramp and jumped everyone really high. What a fun Papa! It is always fun to visit Nana and Papa.

Time to get caught up

2008-06-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

Our life in the last month and a half has been just crazy. We decided to do a little remodeling. With me being 7 1/2 months pregnant and with Rich's hand, it was a good idea at the time. Anyway, we got new carpet and had all of the upstairs trim and some walls painted. So basically we had to move out of the upstairs to the basement for a few days. We also did a lot of furniture moving with the help of some really great friends. In addition to this the girls were in the middle of dance competitions, practices, recitals and tryouts. Then to round it out, Maddie's piano recital. It has really been non-stop for us. We are now winding down and getting ready for the baby. As far as the blog goes, I think I will start from where I left off. So enjoy!

Maddie's First Dance Competition

2008-04-12T22:05:00.000-07:00

This was her first competition. She did so great! We had to wake up at 6 am to get ready and make it to Clearfield (a 1 hour drive) by 8 am. She danced at 9 and did it like a champ. She is getting really good and loves dancing. Hopefully she will stick with it.

Just before they went on stage

Warming up in the hall

Madison is on her way....

2008-04-12T21:58:00.000-07:00

On Friday Madison came home with her 8th 100% spelling test in a row. She was so excited and so was I. We are so proud of her. She is doing so well in school. Her favorite subject is math. I wish I could say that when I was her age. She must take after her Dad.

So Sweet

2008-04-12T21:51:00.000-07:00

I came out of Mackenzie's room, after putting her down for a nap, and walked into mine to find Macie asleep in my bed with Max. Just so you know, I love Max, but not when he is in my bed, on my pillow. I just had to take a picture and then Max knew he had to get out of there. He jumped out and off. Macie just loves him.

Piggy's

2008-04-12T21:40:00.000-07:00

This is the first time ever that Mackenzie let me put pig-tails in her hair. That is not usual for me and my girls. She ended up loving them and asks for them when I do her hair.

Dancing

2008-04-06T23:49:00.000-07:00

These pictures are from the past year. I just had to post them. We do a lot of dancing in our house. Usually while I am making dinner, we crank the music and dance. The girls just love it. Madison is usually the choreographer and the other two just follow along. Who knows maybe they will make it big some day.

Mackenzie loves to pose

2008-04-06T23:39:00.000-07:00

These pictures are from the weekend. Anytime the camera is out Mackenzie is in front of it. She loves to pose and then look at the picture. She does have a pretty cute smile. Her other big thing right now are her dollies. She plays with her dolls all the time. If we go somewhere she has to have at least one with her. When she wakes up she has to bring one to breakfast with her, it's pretty cute. What would we do with out this cute little girl?

Mackenzie's favorite outfit, cold or hot.

Madison needs new clothes

2008-04-06T23:25:00.000-07:00

On Friday of last week we got up and did our normal routine for the morning. After breakfast I went to help the girls get dressed for school. Come to find out all of Madison's pants were either too short or had holes in them. So we had to improvise, I pulled out some really cute capris and a new shirt. Madison is very picky about clothes, she takes after Rich, and did not want to wear what I had put together. She finally put them on and a little jacket to match, she looked darling. Although she didn't think so and as she walked out of the hall she says, "Mom, I look like a freakin nerd." Usually I get mad if she says freakin, but I couldn't help but laugh. Of course, that made her even more mad. So I said lets take a picture and email to Grandma Judy and she will tell us if your outfit works. She wasn't very happy about that either, in the end she was laughing before she had to go to school. It was all very comical.

Our "Cultural" experience

2008-04-06T21:49:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night Rich was invited to a reception for a baby blessing. A guy (Salvador) that Rich works with invited him to this reception/party for his daughter's baptism. So Rich thought if would be fun for all of us to go. You know to expose the kids to a little culture. I will be honest I was not up for packing the kids up and heading to Glendale for a party on Saturday night. I just wanted to rent Alvin and the Chipmunks and be lazy and stay home, so needless to say I was not a happy camper. But I went anyway. First of all Rich said, it was in a party hall. Actually it was a garage and there were about 20 guys outside smoking and a few hundred more inside dancing to a live Mexican band. When we got inside everyone was either dancing, eating or drinking. I was not thrilled, but of course Salvador was so, so nice and he sat us at a table and brought us some food immediately. It was very good and very authentic. The girls did have fun and they even danced with Rich. It was really cute. Mackenzie really only wanted one thing, cake. We sat right in front of it and she just couldn't wait to eat some. So finally at about 10 pm they decided to cut the cake ( we got there at 8 pm and the party was supposed to go until 2 am), Mackenzie got her cake. Unfortunately, she was over tired and threw a fit before she could finish. So we left the party very fast. In the end we did have fun and the girls got a "cultural experience" out of it.

Mischievous Mackenzie

2008-04-01T22:35:00.000-07:00

I just had to tell this story. It was about 8:30pm on Tuesday night and I was just getting Madison and Macie into bed. Rich had just gotten home from the grocery store and had bought popsicles. Well, of course Madison and Macie really wanted one and of course I said no way, no one is getting one tonight. Little did I know Rich had already given one to Mackenzie, who was waiting in the family room to go to bed. He did, however, tell her twice not to go into the bedroom and show the girls the popsicle. So this little girl comes sneaking to the door with her back to the wall outside the door and just sticks her arm in holding the popsicle and says, "look guys it's orange." The girls were in an uproar and not a happy uproar. Mackenzie just stood there smiling. She then said goodnight and ran away. They still did not get one and Mackenzie did get in trouble, but not too much, because it made me laugh. She can be such a stinker, but her smile saves her. You gotta love it! After her popsicle she made herself and her dollies comfortable in our bed.

Mackenzie's 3rd Birthday

2008-04-01T22:22:00.000-07:00

Mackenzie turned 3 on March 29th. She had been waiting for this day for so, so long. We had a teddy bear picnic party. We decorated the basement like we were outside, with bugs hanging from the ceiling, some trees, a wall scene and of course teddy bears everywhere. Upstairs we had our whole table covered in butcher paper so the kids could color until everyone got there. All of the kids brought their own teddy bear. When everyone got there we lined up and went into the "magical teddy bear forest", it was very exciting. When we got downstairs we danced with the bears and tossed the bears in our table cloth. The plastic table cloth did get shredded a little but it was still usable...not smart on my end.

Anyway, after the games, we spread out our table cloth and had a picnic on the floor. I had packed the kids lunches with little teddy bear sandwiches and other things. After lunch we went on a bear hunt through some obstacles and found a bear with all of the prizes. I think everyone had fun but it's hard to tell when your dealing with 2 and 3 year olds. Mackenzie is still talking about it and wants her birthday to be everyday. She asks me, "is it my birthday today?". She is so funny. Let's hope this is the end to the terrible 2's.

Easter (about a week ago)

2008-03-31T23:41:00.000-07:00

Easter was a very busy weekend for us. Without realizing it Rich booked a "guys weekend" with about 6 of his closest friends from high school over Easter weekend. The girls and I had plenty to keep us busy. Included in our weekend of fun were 3 Easter egg hunts over about 3 days. The girls spent the night at aunt Kelle's house one night and we all spent the night at Papa and Nana's house another night. It was a blast! It was exhausting, but a lot of fun.

On Easter morning the girls found their Easter baskets awaiting them and went on a mini egg hunt for real eggs in the house. It was very exciting! By the way, we had Isabella spend the night so she was with us on Easter, which has been the case since she was born...we love it. However, getting 4 girls ready for church with cute hair is a challenge for me. Needless to say I was late but Rich and the girls made it on time at least. Later that day we went to Nana and Papa's house for dinner and an egg hunt. We had so much fun and it's always nice to get together with family. It was busy, but worth it. Here are some fun pictures from our adventurous weekend.

I'm catching up

2008-03-29T23:47:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go? It has been almost a year since I have updated this blog. So I am going to start with Easter and go from there. Madison is 7 1/2, Macie is 5 1/2 and Mackenzie was 2 at Easter and today she is 3. I can hardly keep up! Here are a few fun pictures from the past year.

(slide show coming soon)

Nana and Papa's "Pool"

2007-09-07T23:03:00.000-07:00

The kids just loved swimming in Nana and Papa's "pool." We had all of the kids in the pool, swimming suit or not. It was a lot of fun! Here are some pictures of that glorious day... or as Macie would say,"the best day ever". Enjoy.

Our New Puppy

2007-09-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

Max is our newest addition to our family. We got him at Easter, thinking that Sadie (our other dog) would be going to live with my mom. So when that didn't happen, we ended up with 2 dogs. He is a purebred toy schnauzer and he is very sweet. Madison has become especially close to him. She loves to have him sleep with her (only when he is clean) and he loves it to. When I let him in at night he takes off for her bed. So now we are a 2 dog family.

Madison's Recital

2007-09-04T22:06:00.000-07:00

Madison has been in piano for almost a year and had her first piano recital in June. She and Karli did their recital together. I think it helped Maddie to not be so nervous with her best friend there. They both did so great. The highlight for Maddie and Karli was their teacher, Mrs. VanLeuvan, came to their recital. She is growing up so fast and is very talented in all that she does. (Click on the pictures to see them bigger)

My Little Dancers

2007-09-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

Madison and Macie were in ballet this year. They did so great and loved it. They both had recitals in June. It was a lot of fun and they both did their dance without a mistake. We are so proud of them and of course Mackenzie had to dance with them at home anytime they practiced.

Macie Graduation

2007-09-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

Macie graduated from preschool in June this year. What an exciting and exhausting time. Driving to the graduation was no picnic. Macie was so tired and fell asleep in the car. Soooooooooo by the time we got there she was cranky and so was I. When we walked in the kids had just started singing. There was no place to sit and it was like 100 degrees in there. Story of my life, but it worked out just fine and she just loved it. Ryan was in her class and she enjoyed every minute of it. Ryan and Macie did a great job singing. Now on to kindergarten......

Mackenzie's 2nd Birthday

2007-09-02T19:23:00.000-07:00

Though we have had a busy and exciting year. I decided to highlight some of my favorite times. Mackenzie's birthday would be the first. She turned 2 this year. She just couldn't wait, she thought her birthday was a national holiday. Everywhere we went she would say "Happy Birthday". She was so cute. After her little party she just had to have more cake and she couldn't wait for me. I found her sitting on the floor eating cake and it was then she discovered her independence. She can be a handful, but we just love her.

(Click on the pictures to enlarge them)