Kristina's the big "14"!!!

We are now undeniably in teenageville! I know that we have been in it for awhile but now there is no denying it. Kristina is 14. She had her birthday on Monday and we were so happy to celebrate with her. Since Matt and I were both working on Monday and going out to eat was going to be difficult we went out to NYPD Pizza on Saturday for her birthday. Monday she wanted me to make pulled pork sandwiches for her official dinner. Which of course me being the awesome mom that I am I did. After she was able to open presents. As you can see she got Twilight scene it for the Wii which she totally kicks my butt everytime. Then we had desert. She didn't want a cake but wanted the chocolate lovers donuts from Dunkin Donuts (which we are so happy that it is right down the road now). I think she had a pretty good birthday. She is having a slumber party on Friday and I promised to take her out shopping for some clothes since I am not allowed to pick clothes for the child anymore. Heaven forbid Mom buys her something to wear. I have no idea what looks good. Go figure! Happy Birthday eldest child!! We love you:)

Highlights from Riley's bday party

Yesterday we finally were able to have Riley's bday party. Events included the classic Pin the Tail on the Donkey, balloon relay, balloon popping race, guess how many chocolate eggs, necklace and bracelet making, eating cupcakes and ice cream, and of course opening presents. The girls were silly and cute. A good time was had by all:)

Riley's ditch day

Today was Riley's ditch day. I stole the idea from some other good moms in the ward. I let my kids have one ditch day a school year when they can choose what we do for the day. Riley wanted to see Percy Jackson and the Olympians. I didn't mind cuz I read the books and really enjoyed them. Pretty good movie. (I am going on a tangent though. Why do directors sometimes go so off base and leave out relevant pieces from books. Obviously the book is good enough to be made into a movie. Why then leave so much out and then go off track and change it from it's true form? Just wondering.) Anywho we went to an early movie. Best time to see movies by the way when school is in session. Not too crowded. Then Riley had some money burning a hole in her pocket from her bday. We went to the pet store to look at the puppies. Then to Border's to pick out more books. It was off to Toys R Us to check that store out. She was able to reserve her copy of Pokemon HeartGold for her DS. Last stop Target to get a stuffed animal (like she needs anymore), presents for her friend's bday and Kristina's bday and party supplies for her party tomorrow. It was a fun day!

I love to do the ditch days with the kids because it's a chance to do one on one with each kid. I love to see what they pick out to do. I also get a kick out of the conversations when they are apart from their siblings. They never cease to amaze me or totally crack me up. They each have such quirky personalities that make me giggle and love them even more. Thanks for the fun day. Now it's almost time for Sam's turn. Can't wait to see what that little monkey picks to do.

Riley's field trip

Last Friday:

Went on field trip.
9 kids in group.
Good kids.
Silly kids.
Funny daughter.
Cool museum.
Nuff said!

(Forgot camera. Cell phone camera. Sorry.)

Family Hiking Fun!

Sam has been asking if we could go on a hike. We finally relented and told him yes. Now when I say hike not a hike like my bro Richard hikes. I am soooo not doing those. My idea of a hike is a nice and easy trail. We looked up San Tan Regional Park and found some nice and easy trails to start. We only did one today but it was alot of fun. The kids enjoyed it and the day was absolutely BEAUTIFUL! We decided that we enjoyed it so much we will have to keep on doing them. Heck maybe one day I will actually be in shape. Bwahahahaha JK! I know I must of scared some of ya with that statement:)

Here we are getting started

Hmmmmm....What left that scat on the trail????
So pretty

Taking a break

Thank heavens Sam was there to help his poor mama out!

Love the views

Utah Bride pose for Lesa and Marcy

More pretty views

Matt and Riley wouldn't wait for self portrait time

Love it!

See....I told you Matt and Riley wouldn't wait

Here we are pulling up the rear

Sam had to have a hiking stick

Poor butterfly didn't make it

Riley's 11!!

We do celebrate Valentine's Day somewhat but at our house that day we really like to celebrate Riley's birthday!! Our Riley girl turned 11 on Sunday, Valentine's Day. She's my special Valentine. I can't believe how grown up she is getting. Why oh why does time not stand still sometimes? She had loads of fun and loved her day. Happy Birthday Riley-Roo! We love you:)

Crafty part deux

Here is my attempt at the blocks that I did all by myself. Not too shabby if I do say so myself. I was able to give my other set to one of my friends. Now I must start working on the other holidays. I've also come to realize that I rather enjoy making them.

Update on George

Just to let everyone know that George is doing so much better. They moved him to a rehab hospital and he has been improving each and every day. He is looking forward to the 15th when he gets released. It was scary there for a bit but every ones prayers did so much good. Thanks to all for your kind wishes and prayers!