The Wiles Family

I don't remember it starting this early

2010-02-02T20:48:00.004-07:00

Kelsey came home from school the other day and informed me that she was one of the kids in her class that did NOT own boots. She was really upset. I blew her off and told her we lived in Arizona and boots would be pretty hot. She informed me that the other mothers did not think so. I had to laugh. I told her I would see what I could do.

So about a week later I was shopping with her at Target. These hot pink boots were on clearance. So apparently I was right! Fleece filled boots in Arizona are not selling well? She found them and put them on... It was love at first sight. They were boots. They were pink. They were soft as can be!!!!!

So she now has her boots!!!! Yes I caved! But she is happy. She is no longer the kid withouts boots in class anymore:)

Fresh citrus is so very yummy!!!!

2010-01-11T17:32:00.005-07:00

When we first moved to Arizona 13 years ago, I was so excited about the citrus. I ate kumquats for the first time! They are great by the way! I thought it was crazy that people had trees and let their fruit rot! Who does that!!! Well someone that is tired of citus I suppose. I am not! My Dad has quite a few trees. I must say we are spoiled. I have not bought an orange in years!!

Aren't they gorgeous?

This is my juicer. I love it!!!! It has been in great working order for over a decade.

After hours of standing at my counter. I line my fridge up with these... So yummy fresh orange juice.

I even fill water bottles. They are great for on the go.Sometimes I wonder if my family enjoys this as much as I do... AND THEY DO!!!!

The first thing Kyler said when he came home and smelled the citrus smell was,"Mom? Can I get a glass of that?" I only wish I could squeeze it as fast as we drink it!!!

a LITTLE OFF TASK?????

2010-01-09T23:02:00.002-07:00

Frank is funny. He was off 2 days last week. We had ALOT on our list to do. I believe it was 2 pages of things to do. We was at Home Depot. He passed the garden section and saw "seeds" Aren't they neat? I want those.....So he bought them.

He comes home. I can not find him anywhere? He is in the backyard. We have an area that is "undecided" Water was not hooked up to it yet (another project) The spot was vacant!

Well not any more. I am not sure what he planted. I am not sure if it will grow. But I do know this..... Frank is excited! That is all that counts right???

Tomorrow Frank is tackling the swing set the kids got for Christmas. The directions state is will take 8 hours to complete... I really hope he stays on task!

Brenlie has a ouchie!!!

2010-01-08T13:46:00.005-07:00

Brenlie is a challenge. We love her. She is afraid of absolutely NOTHING!!! But today she got hurt doing something ever so simple.... I was in the family room. She was watching TV. She was rolling around on the floor. I thought she hit her head on the couch. I told her it was going to be OK and rubbed her head. She informs me it is her arm. At this point I am wondering how she could of hurt her arm on the floor. I tell her to settle down.

After awhile I get annoyed of her whining. She has not fallen. Why all the noise? I tell her it better be good for all the whining I am hearing. (right then I knew I had said the wrong thing)

At that point I "knew" something was not right. I made an appointment with our doctor and we decided it was a buckle fracture. You do not cast this. I got a slip for an xray and left with a splint. It made all the difference in the world. I am hoping this will slow her down... Not sure if it will....

Crazy kid!!! So be careful out there, you can hurt yourself rolling around on the floor!

Kelsey's 6th Birthday

2010-01-07T21:07:00.008-07:00

Today is Kelsey's Big day!!!She is 6. She mentioned today brushing her teeth that she thought she was a little bit taller. So cute!

Frank had to work the late shift. We decided to take her to breakfast. It was a hit!!! She felt special. We ate at McDonald's and played a bit. Then she was off to school. I promised her I would bring her lunch....

Unfortunately Kelsey's lunch is at 10:30. I have always been against such an early lunch time for these kids. I told her I would bring nuggets and fries. Apparently the restaurant agreed that ordering food at 10:15 is still BREAKFAST!!! So the poor thing got breakfast twice today!

Brenlie and I went out on the playground with her and had a nice time meeting her friends. I make brownie bite the night before. I left those for snack.

Next stop was making a cake ands wrapping presents..... I make cupcakes. They were pink:) She was very happy about that.

Presents...

Finished product.....

Kelsey enjoyed her presents. I think she liked her Princess sheets the best. She got "her own" nail polish and bubble bath!!

I also found her a jewelry box... (great deal at Kohl's)

Time to blow out the candles....

I am not sure why we have to be so goofy... but whatever works!!!!

Kelsey is an amazing girl. She loves art and is a great sister. Kelsey loves to interact and is a joy to have around! Happy Birthday Kelsey!!!

One year

2010-01-05T09:48:00.004-07:00

The first week in January marks our first year in this home. We have painted 75% of the interior. Put in the front yard, planted grass,put in cement,a fountain,water system,rocks, cabinet handles,door knobs, ceiling fans, lights.....Not sure if I can remember all the projects. One area in my house has remained unfinished. My dining room. Up to this point was a pool table (without the cloth) Since Frank and I could not agree on the final location of the pool table. We did nothing. It looked like this.

Now I have to move and reorganize this.....

But the end result is this!!!!

I am not done. I have to paint my 4th wall in my bedroom. It is an extra room within my bedroom. I will put my desk there. I am hoping to scrapbook and have my sewing there. I will then put the pool table where the desk was and have a game room downstairs!!! Let's just say the boys are pretty thrilled to have the pool table up and running again. I am waiting for the cloth to come in the mail.

I have to thank my Mom and Corbin for the dining table. It has been in our family for more than 20 years. I am happy to continue to use in in mine. The only problem was the table was in Tucson. Thanks Dad for the day trip and the use of your trailer!!! It looks great!!!!

I am off to finish my wall....(notice the work in the yard that still needs to be done!!!)

Flagstaff and the snow

2009-12-28T22:41:00.013-07:00

I hear the same question over and over!!! "Mom ??? Can we go to the snow?" Brenlie has been a great excuse. The baby is too little. Even Brenlie wants to go. And by the way... She is not a baby!!! It is only 3 hours away!!! I am told if we get up at 6. Leave at 7, we can get to the snow by 10. Play til 3pm. Then be home by 6pm. Sounds pretty simple huh?

Honestly.... it was. The kids made the sandwiches. They packed the car. They got up early and dressed the little ones....

Looking at these pictures, I would say it was WORTH it!

Kilean and her friend Ashley.

Kilean and Kelsey

Kyler

Keigan

Bryce

Kyler

Kilean

Kelsey

Brie'el

Kyler had the best time sledding. He is a daredevil at heart. He learned how to steer his torn up sled we found. He was fun to watch. Kelsey loved it as well. She was scared but did not want anyone to know....

Brie'el and Brenlie. Brenlie loved the snow. She spent all day picking it up and eating it!

Kelsey and Jodi

Kilean

Brie'el and Brett

I love this picture of Brenlie...

Kyler had a fun time making snow angels.

Kyler and Brett

snow angel

Brenlie

Brie'el and Brett

Brie'el and her EGG BOX. Brett found this box and Brie'el would wrapp it around herself and sled down the hill with it. It was pretty funny!

Brett loves to snow board. He found 2 pieces of plastic on the ground and gave it a shot!!!

Brie'el falls

Into Brett!!!

Kilean thinks that looks like fun!!

Bryce

Keigan

Group shot

Kyler loved this sled. I am going to buy a few for the next time we go.

This is a pretty big group. I was so excited to have ALL 7 of my kids go. Kilean brought Ashley and Brei'el brought Brett. It took 2 cars but we had a blast!!!

I am happy we went. I did not want to go. If everyone did not give me so much grief about it.... I would of stayed at home. Great memories guys!!

One more day.....

2009-12-24T21:44:00.003-07:00

Presents bought and wrapped.... Check
Turkey defrosted and ready to go... Check
stuffing and mashed potatoes made...check
Christmas music...check
caramel rolls for breakfast..check

I am ready!!! I hope every one's day tomorrow is extra special...

Keigan turns 18!!!!

2009-12-23T09:08:00.010-07:00

We made brownie cupcakes this year (Very yummy) I placed a peppermint kiss in each cupcake. Frosted them with chocolate and sprinked candy canes on top. These were so good. I like the idea of using a brownie mix instead. Lots of options on hershey's kisses too....

Mom,Corbin,Keigan,and Brenlie....

For our family dinner I make their favorite meal... In Keigan's case it's WONTONS!!!

Happy Birthday Keigan!!!

Our family.....

I always try to not combine Keigan's bithday and Christmas. It is hard having a birthday so close to Christmas... But this year we broke our own rule... We got Keigan a PS3.... He knew.... so it was funny when I was taking pics. In this shot he is saying "I wonder what it is"....

Everyone smile...

On his actual birthday (MONDAY) Frank and I took him out to his restaurant of choice. This year Red Lobster. Since we celebrated already with the family it was nice to have a quiet dinner with just him.

Lets just say Keigan HATES getting his picture taken. I let him know that his birthday would not be a day without pics. He is so cute!

I had to take over 10 pics to get this one. And it really is not great. They crossed their eyes, sneezed, closed their eyes,made faces,and pretty much made a chore of it!

At this point he is done with pictures!

Happy Birthday Keigan you are an amazing young man!!!

Keigan's Eagle Project.

2009-12-17T19:27:00.005-07:00

Keigan's project is almost done.We have to write it all up and get it turned in. Pretty amazing how fast we all did this. We had a great time handing the gifts out. The kids had some crazy stories to tell. Some of them come from all over the USA. The one kid at my table was from Nebraska. Another from Washington DC. All in for many different reasons.

I took Bryce with us. The boys shared the rules with my kids. They can't wear watches. They all wear the same clothes(down to the shoes) No soda or dessert. (tonight was a treat) No TV. No computers. No phone. Every minute of every day is scheduled. The gifts that we delivered... will be boxed for their return trip home. No personal items.

You can tell these kids have big hearts, but might lack some good parenting at home. Their lives are forever changed! We had a good time and it was a reat learning experience. We were looking for something to do for the holidays that would help others... I think this did:)

These are the pictures that document his project....

PITCHING THE IDEA

GATHERING THE GIFTS

WRAPPING THE GIFTS

ORGANIZING THE GIFTS

AT CENTER

DINNER

HAND OUT GIFTS

OPENING THE GIFTS

This is Brother Jacob. He is the main reason Keigan is getting his Eagle. They worked together and he was a big inspiration to Keigan. I remember when he first called. I said to him "Don't you have better things to do this holiday?" I was not trying to be rude... BUT wanted to give him a way out. He was SURE we could get this done and felt like this project was perfect. He was right!

My Good Friend Terry Wood

2009-12-12T22:01:00.003-07:00

More years ago than I can remember I met a FANTASTIC lady Terry Wood. She was kind, special, giving, helpful,nice, and the most generous woman I have met. Brie'el and Kilean played soccer with her girls. Terry was the first person who said... Your girls need to play tournament soccer. I was pregnant with Kyler. I told her with a baby coming in 1 1/2 months it was impossible. She told me it was not. And she would help. She did. My girls played tournament soccer for 4 years. Terry was a volunteer for AYSO region 503 soccer. Terry brought hot chocolate on cold days, made sure everyone knew what field to be on, what hotel to stay in ,and made sure we all got fed.

She was an amazing woman.

My girls love of soccer stems from Terry Wood.

Terry volunteered every week at her 2 daughters school. Terry did it all. She has raised 2 of the best girls I have met. The apple does not fall far from the tree. Kacey and Megan Wood are 2 great girls...... they lost their mother on Monday.

Terry and I have been friends for years. We did't see each other much since I moved and no longer play soccer for Region 503. Our girls still talk but they are all so busy, we get caught up in our own lives.

Terry was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer on Aug.21, 2009. She died December 7, 2009. She was 53 years old. I went to my first Catholic mass today. Very beautiful. I will miss my friend. I have met many people in my life.....but not too many with hearts like hers.

Looking back on Terry's life, I am going to try to be more like her. I hope that her legacy will live on through her children and close friends.

I will cherish the time I knew Terry.

Dallas with The 93 Arsenal girls.....

2009-12-01T21:11:00.008-07:00

As always.... Thanksgiving is spent on the soccer field.This year I flew to Dallas Texas with Brie'el's team. It was nice to get away and watch good soccer. They played some tough teams and played pretty good. These are college showcases. They are watching our girls looking for players. I am not sure if Brie'el is looking to play in Texas. I have to say it is a beautiful state. We visited TCU. Texas Christain University. The campus was gorgeous!!

I had a great time with these girls. I enjoy being a chaperone. getting to know them on a personal level is always a treat!

Brie'el and Kilean made Varsity Soccer at Desert Ridge!!!

2009-11-23T20:04:00.002-07:00

I am so excited to announce that both my girls made the Varsity soccer team this year! I can not remember the last time I have watched both my girls play at the same time and the same location. They have not EVER been on the same team! This is so exciting for me.....

I am the VP of the Soccer Boosters at Desert Ridge. I know I will be busy, but making sure the boys and girls get everything they need for this soccer season is important. This organization has come along way since I started. Our first year our banquet was potluck. Last year is was catered by Texas Roadhouse.

I can only hope that each year it will only get better! I will work in the snack bar serving dinner to anyone who will support us! Our hope is to serve dinner (cheap) so our parent will come straight after work and support our team!

If you are bored and want to watch soccer... come watch the boys or girls at DESERT RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL!!!

Keigan and his Eagle Project

2009-11-21T19:32:00.002-07:00

Keigan has been in scout since he was 8. He was the only troop member that was not a member of the church. Keigan loved scouts. He loved the leader and the boys. I will admit there were times when he thought it was all silly. There were times when he simply did not want to go. But in the end... He liked scouts and continued to be active in his troop.

As he got older, scout became less important. He had school, band and work. Friends and video games took up some of his free time. Then we moved. He was no longer comfortable with this troop and he stopped going. I was very sad. But I had to remember this was Keigan's life not mine. I can tell him what I think he should do, and hope he listens. Two years have passed.....

We moved again. I met a member of the church who reviewed Keigan's scouting record. He was totally amazed that Keigan had gotten so close, but never finished. Keigan turns 18 on December 21st. Not much time is left. Keigan spent the entire day putting together his Eagle paperwork. He turned it in and his project was accepted in one day!!!!

I am pretty proud of Keigan. I am happy to say that Keigan is on his way to getting his Eagle. Some times it is better to leave things alone.. this time it was. This group of scouts are amazing! They have gone out of their way(in the holidays) mind you to make sure this happens for my son.

Kindness is not something you see too often Especially to a complete stranger. This leader had never met Keigan before today. But he spent the day helping someone. This will not go unnoticed in the Wiles home!!!!

Wish us luck.... we have a lot of work to do over the next few weeks!

Halloween

2009-11-02T14:25:00.008-07:00

Halloween was fun.. Kilean and Brie'el both had soccer games. Kilean did well. SHe scored a goal and got home just in time for trick or treating!! Their game was delayed an hour. I drove to Tucson with Brie'el and the little ones and we got back around 530PM They won as well!!!

We got home, quickly changed and went to my friends house in Cortina. They had a bonfire in their driveway, food, spirits, and candy!!! The kids had a great time hanging out and running around. Kelsey ended up having her first REAL sleepover with Alexa (Kilean's friend)

Brie'el and Brett went to a friends house from our soccer team and Kilean hung out with Ashley.

Bryce was a ganster doctor??? Where do they get their ideas???

Brie'el and Brett were pretty funny... Don't worry his butt was plastic!!!!

We had Cainen... He was so cute!!!

This is the kids and their Dad!!! Trick or Treating is so much fun...

Kids having fun...

Kelsey and Kyler.... Kelsey wanted to be a cat again( for the 3rd year in a row!!!). So I painted her face to make thigs different!! She really did not like it!!

Brenlie!!!!

Fall break Disneyland!!!

2009-10-16T23:42:00.009-07:00

Frank and the kids REALLY wanted to go to Disneyland this Fall Break!!! I was trying to be the voice of reason..... Disneyland is expensive!!! We don't have the money....7 kids in the car for 6 to 7 hours?? Is this really going to be a lot of fun????

We wanted to get one more trip in before Keigan graduates from highschool. We as a family feel our time is limited with all our kids available. Some of our ducks will be leaving the nest soon, so we have to embrace any opportunities.

Frank has a sister and brother in law that live in California and work for Disneyland. They worked their "magic" and shared with us their passes they get each year. They were also able to get us a room for a fraction of the cost. Another Disneyland perk....

We had so much fun. We took 2 cars. I had the girls and Frank had the boys. We were armed with movies and snacks....

It was alot of fun to go when your little ones know the Disney movies. Then they go on the rides and feel apart of it!!! They finished Its a Small World and The buzz Light Year ride was new. I got all the big kids on The Tower Of Terror(Kyler loved it by the way) Kyler is a thrill seeker. He also loved the Mickey Mouse Roller Coaster. I couldn't believe it!!!His picture they took is of him SMILING!!!! He loved it!

WE all had a lot of un. We did it with little fighting(I won't lie) and lots of help!

Rather than being glad I am home.... this time I am looking forward to another trip!

Desert Ridge Band Concert

2009-10-08T12:33:00.004-07:00

The High school had a band concert last night. I am so excited that all 3 of my high school kids made the top band.

Of course I want to take a picture. And what I do not understand is why... can't I get any cooperation with these guys? Seriously they are old enough to behave....Right:)

Bryce band concert and park

2009-10-06T23:13:00.006-07:00

Bryce had a concert tonight. We had to be there early so I brought the little ones to the playground beforehand. They LOVE playing outdoors and the weather is so nice right now!!!

Bryce did great at his concert tonight. I was very proud of him. There are only 15 members in his 7th grade band. Lets just say I could hear him play!!! Well DOne Buddy!!!!

Bryce looks so cute in his Cortina Shirt

the band....

The kids had such a good time at the playground.

Homecoming 2009

2009-10-06T12:56:00.009-07:00

Kilean and Brie'el went to homecoming this year. Kilean went with a bunch of her friends and Brie'el went with Brett. I was very happy with their dress choices this year. Both girls were pretty without lots of makeup and super short tight dresses!!!

Kilean went to dinner with her friends and Brie'el and Brett ate dinner at Ians's. His mom put together a fantastic dinner with her best china. OVER the TOP!!! We were very greatful. SHe did a great job!!!

The dance was fun and both girls came back with lots of stories to tell.

two cuties

Brie'el and Brett

Kilean and her group of friends

Kilean and Katie

Brie'el and her group of friends

Brie'el and Aubry

The boys.... they are a great group of kids:)

Brenlie REALLY liked the girls shoes......

scary thing is... she got them on fairly easy!

Dinner time

More Junior High Pictures....

2009-09-21T22:35:00.003-07:00

Bryce had another game today... Just a few more pics.They won 8 to 0. Bryce REALLY wanted to touch the ball. At one point he came out too FAR just so he could kick the ball!

Bryces Plays Junior High Soccer!!!

2009-09-21T15:20:00.000-07:00

Bryce started Cortina Elementary 4th Quarter last year. Higley Schools are k thru 8, so Bryce has 2 more years at this school. I was very happy he signed up for soccer. This is a great way for him to meet new friends and be apart of his new school. Bryce started out playing goalie for the 1st couple of games. His coach has learned he does great in defense as well. I am proud of Bryce. He has done a great jog getting to know kids in a short period of time. Changing schools is hard. He has adjusted well!

This is Bryce and Cody... We know each other from Arsenal. Brie'el and cody's sister play Arsenal soccer together!!!! Small World huh?

Bad News from our old neighboorhood

2009-09-20T21:20:00.008-07:00

Mesa police investigate apparent murder-suicide
More Mesa and Phoenix Local News

06:01 PM Mountain Standard Time on Sunday, September 20, 2009

By The Associated Press

MESA -- Mesa police are investigating an apparent murder-suicide that left a mother and her two teenage sons dead.

Police spokesman Detective Steve Berry said the woman's husband came home from work late Saturday and found her dead. As he continued checking the home, the man found his two sons dead.

Berry said they all suffered gunshot wounds.

The names of the mother and the teens were not immediately released.

Investigators said they suspect that the mother shot the two teens and then turned the gun on herself.

Berry said the husband and wife had been having marital problems, but he declined to provide any other details about the case, including where the bodies were found inside the home or how many times each were shot.

This happened in our old neighborhood. I am pretty sure I will never understand how a mother could take her own childs life.....

Kyler loves soccer

2009-09-18T21:18:00.008-07:00

Frank and I signed Kyler up for soccer this year. He LOVES to play. He had his 1st game last weekend. He was the first to score within a few seconds. He scored the 2nd goal as well. After awhile they put him in defense. I was pretty proud of my little dude. He was first to the ball and is a great passer. All those years WATCHING soccer has paid off! The best part of the game is when he passed the ball to a kid on our team that had not yet scored. Kyler is a team player. I am so happy about that..... We are the Lightening Skulls. Pretty scary huh?

Cainen Isley Hammer 8-28-09

2009-09-03T20:35:00.008-07:00

Misty and my brother asked me about a month ago if I would consider being there when the baby was born. I was very happy to be included in a birth that was not my own. I am very proud to say I witnessed the amazing birth of my 1st nephew!!!

I was called at 8PM with the news that Misty's water had broken. Determined to not miss a thing, I got my stuff together and went to the hospital. We had a lot of fun staying up all night together, having late night snacks, and having a little bit of fun with barf bags!!!

This was so funny in the middle of the night...

I would say the birth was perfect. Misty got her epideral. We were able to get some rest before he was born. The doctor came in to check Misty at 9:30. SHe was at a 9!!! BY 10:18 the baby was born. I think we stalled some so we could wait for the doctor. It was totally amazing! I cut the cord.

I later on learned I was also there to help my squeemish brother. Turns out he is not a fan of hospitals!!!I don't blame him. If I had not been there 7 times myself and did not know what to expect, I would feel the same way! I guess we are both BIG wimps!!!

We are all so excited to have a cousin!!! My kids are enjoying a baby in our family. My brother and Misty live 1 mile away. Sure makes it easy to visit!

Cansolidator!!!!

2009-08-26T18:52:00.003-07:00

I have been struggling with a better way to organize food. I am not big on putting food under the bed or in other rooms in the house. I also have been limited with how many cans I can stack. I can not put them outside because its too hot.

What I really wanted is a storage unit "installed" in my pantry that held over 1000 cans and cost more than I had to spend. I was in Costco last week and ran into these... They are called the CANSOLIDATOR!!! Each unit holds up to 40 cans. They cost 22.00. So I bought 5 of these! My thought was 200 cans was a good start!!!

I love them! If you buy more than 1 you can make them as long/short as you like. After playing with them for awhile... I deciced they are AWESOME!!!!!

As you can see it really does not take up much room... (another bonus)

SO cute!!!

2009-08-14T10:51:00.004-07:00

Kelsey was so proud to bring this home from school. I love kindergarten... and all the cute things they bring home.

Kyler is hilarious. I am so glad he had a cool shirt to wear! And he was mad to be at school? He is my only child that after 2 years of going, would really rather stay home with me. I am pretty sure he is waiting for FRIDAY!!!

Little joys

2009-08-12T21:52:00.004-07:00

I was in the car today on my way to Costco. I gave Brenlie her back pack. It was on the floor and she did not notice. She was so happy to get it back... I thought I wonder if I ever got so excited about something like that as a kid?

Later today... I was in my room. The same feeling came over me again when I saw this...

I would not want to be a child again (long term) But for a couple of days it would be great. Kyler loves to play with his Bakugan. Little joys. I am not sure what I would do if I did not have children in my home.

First Day of School!!!!

2009-08-10T14:54:00.012-07:00

Here comes the bus!!!!

Saying good bye to the little ones........

Bryce (7th grade) Kyler (2nd grade) and Kelsey (kindergarten)

Every watch the movie Finding Nemo? Remember the scene where Nemo is swimming around Yelling "First Day of school! First Day of school" That was Kelsey. She slept with her backpack. I got a call from her teacher today. She wanted to make sure Kelsey was taking the right bus home. Kelsey knew she was on bus 40 code name Buffalo!!! She was right! Mrs. Mouw wanted to know how many years she was in preschool. I proudly said none!!! She was right in the mix today. She is adjusting well!!!

Kyler on the other hand.... Woke up an hour after being put to bed last night. He wanted me to know he was going to miss being at home. He also wanted to know if he really had to go....He was so sad! But this morning he was a little better. I told him how much HE was going to be missed. I also let him know how proud I was of him. This eased his worries. A little!!!

Mr Keigan... A senior!!!! WOO HOOO

My girls....

Kilean loves it when I take pics. Especially since I got her right when she walked in the door!!!

Brie'el feels the same way!!

Brenlie wanted to get on that bus so bad. I felt sorry for her. She wants to be big like the others.

I told her to smile. I did not notice til I got the pics on the computer that she gave me a face. She saw the picture on the computer and laughed. I am pretty sure she knew what she was doing.

Brenlie's backpack..This was the only way we made it thru the morning. Brenlie had to have her own. Just like the rest of the kids:)

Canyon Lake

2009-08-09T20:43:00.015-07:00

I love this lake. I have not been here in a long time. Kilean, Brie'el and I were invited to go boating with Brett and his family. I am so glad I went. The beauty in the canyon is amazing. The kids played on the tube, jumped off some rocks, and played on the rope swing. I shared many fun laughs with Carol. I am pretty sure the only reason the MOMS were invited was to get us on the tubes!!! I must say we did well!

The lake was pretty warm. I love sitting on the boat eating lunch with friends and enjoying the sun.

They all enjoy jumping off the rocks. Brett does a crazy jump everytime. It usually involves a flip!!!! Brie'el like to jump, but she still hesitates a bit. I honestly do not blame her!!!

The rope swing was also a blast. They spent a lot of time swinging in the water.

All in all it was a good day.

Slide Rock 2009

2009-08-07T07:54:00.012-07:00

Brie'el and her friends wanted to go to Slide Rock State Park. It is 158 miles from my home. I would not let her drive. (mean mom) She could go if I went. SO we did...
I have lived in Arizona since 1997. I have been to Sedona a couple of times. This was my 1st experience at this park. It is absolutely wonderful. I plan on going back one more time this summer. The views were amazing. The water was 68. A little cold, but it was hot out. Refreshing to say the least.
The kids had the best time exploring and jumping off the rocks. Next time I will make sure we all have shoes on. That would make a huge difference, since the rocks are slippery in places.

It was an amazing day. Kilean stayed home with a friend and watched Brenlie. That was such a great idea. It is not really a place for 2 year olds!! I want to make sure Keigan and Kilean get a chance to go. I'm thinking in the next 2 weeks!!!

Kierland Villas with friends

2009-07-31T21:24:00.001-07:00

I got a call from a friend. They have a timeshare in Scottsdale. They have been there all week and invited us to come stay. I was not sure if I should come with 5 of my 7 children and invade her vacation. She insisted, so we came....

Kilean and Alexa were getting in some reading time!!! Kilean sure loves The Hobbit. I am sure Animal Farm is Alexa's first choice as well.

I like it when Kilean plays well with Kelsey.They spent a lot of time in the pool. Kilean was having fun "throwing her" in the air and flipping her backwards!!!

Kelsey ended up doing pretty well... but had a hard time getting a lot of air!

But... after practice one does get better!!

So Bryce decides this looks like fun. But who can he flip?

Brenlie? BRYCE!!! She is two years old. So he did it twice. Once he got yelled at, and once more to get the picture! (AM I a great mom or what?) He flipped her so high all I got was her water wings!!!

After a long day it was time for bed!!!

It is time for a new day in the pool. Brenlie really liked this large baby pool. She was able to swim around without me helping her. She had a blast.

The girls getting their relax time is really important!

This was MY VIEW most of the time. Notice my nails are polished? A good day for me.

Frank was able to make it out today. And he was able to rest his eyes as well.

Is there such thing as laying out without an ipod?

This was my bag of tricks for the last 2 days!!!

Last but not least the grackles that are EVERYWHERE in Arizona. But they did provide great entertainment. I watched them pick away at this bag for quite awhile before I grabbed the camera.

Kilean and her Kansas pics......

2009-07-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

I have a good friend who is from KANSAS. Harvest is a very special time of year for this family and they "TRY" to make it to harvest. Kilean has gone twice so far. They got in the car and drove 15 hours and made it in one day!!!! CRAZY family!!!

The wheat is so pretty. They lost a lot of the crop due to the weather.... but a spectacular sight still!!!

Farm life is so fun. Kilean commented the food is amazing. They spent time with Breanna's family and had a great time. They had many memories to share from the long car rides!!!

I love all the shots in the wheat fields!!!

I am hoping one day I can make it with them and go see for myself hoe beautiful this part of the country is!!!!

Tombstone and the ride home!!!! Part4

2009-07-29T21:30:00.000-07:00

Enough Family time? ON the way home we decided to go to Tombstone first!! This was a cute town. But a little cheesy. We walked up and down the street. Most everything was closed. As a family we could of toured the back of an old bar. For 15.00 a head. We passed on that. Or we could of toured an old mine. It was HOT out. OR..... JUST GO HOME!!! and that is exactly what we did!!

My kids thought it was funny that it said OK in front of everything. The OK corral. The OK bar....

Kilean likes this old fire hydrant. Do not ask me why. I do not know!!!

Kyler really liked the horses. He also wanted to know why everyone smoked in Tombstone. He wanted to know why they all had cigarettes with plastic mouthpieces. He really pays attention to detail....

The ride home.... We drove 2 cars. We took Brie'els car as well. I had Kyler with me so I gave him my camera to pass some time. These are some pictures he took along the way. We ended up getting stuck in the traffic in Tucson coming home. The freeway was shut down due to an accident, so we had to go home thru Oracle!!! My kids were a good sport but they were glad to be home in our BIG town. When we got home I watched the little ones and the rest went to see Harry Potter!!!!

Let's just say we were glad to be home. The kids like my cooking and prefer to not eat out. We all enjoyed our own beds and a good night sleep!!!!

The SHADY DELL Part 3

2009-07-28T20:57:00.000-07:00

Frank found the Shady Dell on TV. It was listed on the travel channel as one of the most unique places to stay. Shady Dell offers a unique lodging experience. You can spend the night in a beautifully restored 1950's travel trailer or a 1947 Chris Craft Yacht. Top it off with breakfast in an origional 1957 diner!!!!

Frank read this and was SUPER EXCITED!!!!!

This was the TIKKI bus. I have to give them credit for making a bus into a neat place to sleep.

We rented 3 rv's. Frank and I in one and then one each for the boys and girls. The kids really did not know what to say. Luckily the toilets did flush and there was running water!!!

Each RV had great decorations. They had old calendars, books, records, and yearbooks in everyone. They used old dishes and cookie jars. Really brought you back to the 5o's.... If you were alive then!!!! (I was NOT) hee hee

I enjoyed going into each room and looking around. A lot of this stuff was either in my house growing up or was at Grandmas. Reminds me of the holidays or camping as a kid with the Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles!!!

Now as you look around they did have a TV. It was black and white.They did have dvd players hooked to them. Also provided a stack of old movies to watch. No video games, cable, or computers to be seen. Where is the pool? Room service? Well shucks!!!! What are we going to do?

I guess play with each other!!!!

This phone booth did not work, but it was all genuine. A blast from the past!!!

This old gas station was really neat...

Last but not least... the Diner!!!! Frank and I got up early and ate there the next day. Frank had blueberry hotcakes and I had eggs and hashbrowns and hotcakes. ( I shared with Kelsey and Brenlie) The food was great and the service was wonderful!!! This was definately different. I will never forget this experience. I am pretty sure the kids will not either!!!!

Bisbee Arizona Part 2

2009-07-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

Bisbee Arizona? WHat is in Bisbee Arizona. According to my kids not much at all!!! We drove into town. Not much was happening. The stores were all closed by the time we got there (4:30PM) I am thinking there is not muc tourism, so they do not stay open for the locals.

This mine was pretty cool. It is not a working mine. I was told there is still some work being done, but they are no longer digging here. It almost looks like it is bleeding?

Here is a bit of "history" of the mine....

My kids are learning what it is like to live in a small town. We had lunch in Sierra Vista and dinner in Bisbee. It is good for them to see that not every place has BIG restaurants and Imax movie theatres. Mom and POP restaurants "still" exist. Gus served us pizza and gyros for dinner at his restaurant he has owned since 1984. He was an Italian man that served GREAT food!!!!

Our 24 Hour Trip!!! Kartchner Caverns Part 1

2009-07-26T20:58:00.003-07:00

We decided to get away for a short bit and go to Kartchner caverns. So we got in 2 cars...(remember there is 9 of us) and off we went.....

First stop McDonald's for a drink and something small to eat!!! OH and we found a dinosaur!!!

I would advise anyone to go to these caves. If you enjoy spelunking.. It was really a lot of fun. We really lucked out. The weather was fabulous. We had rain the night before and for whatever reason I think it was 80 that day!!!

I took any and all opportunities to take family pictures.It was so pretty there!!!

They had an area where you could see what it was like if you had to climb in and out of these caves. Th kids enjoyed playing around.

They were VERY careful in the caves. You could not touch a thing. If you did they would RED TAG and area. Then fill out a report. With 7 kids only 1 red tag!!! Pretty darn good I say!!!

I would go back. They had one cave closed. The bats were having babies so it was closed to the public until October 15th. Again they were very careful to preserve and not bother anything!!!

It was a great tour. I was unable to take any pictures inside. They would not allow cameras. BUMMER!!! So I can not post any from inside!!!!

This is proof the desert CAN be a beautiful place.......

WICKED

2009-07-25T20:51:00.000-07:00

Frank and I went to Wicked on the 22nd. I have to say I was so excited to see this musical. I was not disappointed. I loved the storyline!! The characters did a great job and the singing was wonderful. This was my first musical.... but will not be my last!!!

............ Don't we look... Wonderful????

................Our nosebleed seats!!!! Hey I was 1st row... UP TOP!!!!

Aaron and Misty

2009-07-24T20:22:00.009-07:00

My brother got married July 21st!!!! I am so excited for him. His ceremony was at Freestone Park and we had dinner at my house afterwards. It was short and very sweet. I was more than willing to have everyone come to our house afterwards. My brother moved down the street from Frank and I in March. It has been so nice to have him live close and have a girl in his life that I get along with so well. Welcome to the family Misty!!!

....................................THE HAPPY COUPLE

...............................Emy Misty Aaron Evan

...............................................Brenlie

.................................Brett and Brie'el

...............................Mom and Corbin

..............................Kyler and Kelsey

..............................Bryce and Evan

..............................Kilean

..............................Kilean and Brie'el

..............................Dad and Devon

..............................Devon Keigan Mom

..............................The Whole Family

..............................The cake!!

..............................Brenlie ... I can see you!!!

Storming....

2009-07-21T15:37:00.006-07:00

I can not believe the amount of storms we are getting this year. I am LOVING it!!!! I am talking about the thunder, lightning and the rain. I will ask if someone can turm down the wind a bit. The wind is having too much fun messing up my trees. I have 1 tree down and another tree has 2 branches missing this morning. I have also noticed many trees beat up at the park, grocery store, and the bank.
The kids and I sat out back last night and watched the sky and enjoyed the cooler weather. I love sitting outside, and with family it is even better!

ITS a WEDDING!!!!

2009-07-19T22:27:00.003-07:00

I got a call from my brother 2 days ago.... He's getting married!!!! So excited to hear this wonderful news. SO I ask when? TUESDAY!!!!! After picking myself off the floor, I began to help put together all the details of their wedding. It is going to be small and very personal. Dinner will be at my house. I am so excited my brother found someone who makes him happy!! If he is happy I am happy!!

Tucson

2009-07-17T21:03:00.005-07:00

We really have not done much this summer. We went to Tucson with my mom and Corbin a couple of weeks ago. We had a great time relaxing and watching movies. AT night I watched a couple of storms come in. There is not many city lights so the sky is filled with stars!!!

We went to a museum. My kids enjoy it alot. It is filled with bugs and insects and stuffed animals!!!! It is all Very cool!!!

The catcus were all blooming. This was my favorite shot....

SAY CHEESE!!!!

Progress......

2009-06-23T20:56:00.002-07:00

These are the last of the trees I need to plant. So far we have planted over 30 trees throughout our yard....

This is our courtyard. This is the beginning stages of getting the rock laid.

This is our front yard. I think we have finally gotten all the plants,lighting and water lines done. Next step ROCKS!!!!

Tomorrow is the day for getting the rock pile done... Pray for my back:)

Keigan and Brie'el off to Europe!!!

2009-06-22T09:04:00.004-07:00

SEVEN countries in SIXTEEN days. Keigan and Brie'el are off to Europe traveling with 325 band/choir students. The Ambassadors of Music program is amazing. Desert Ridge's band director nominated both of them and they were accepted. They will go to England, France,Switzerland,Liechtenstein,Austria, Italy, and Germany.

It as been a year long commitment. Over these economic times, we almost opted out. But with special thanks to my parents for helping financially we somehow pulled it off!!! (THANK YOU!)

I took them to the airport yesterday morning at 6am. I got a text this morning at 3:24am. They made it to London and the are touring as we speak!! I am looking forward to many stories and sharing pictures from their trip!!!

I will keep you posted....

Veronika Decides to Die

2009-06-16T13:18:00.003-07:00

The story centers on Veronika, a woman in her mid twenties who appears to have everything: good looks, good job and a great life ahead of her. Yet she decides to end her own life. She is unsuccessful and awakens in a mental hospital where she learns that she has five days to live. We learn that the reason that she attempted suicide was that she felt so constrained by the rules and expectations of 'normal' society that she had concluded that she had experienced all that life had to offer. However in the hospital she meets people who are only 'insane' because they don't always follow society's rules. With little left to lose, Veronika embarks on a journey on which she frees herself to experience relationships and emotions and ultimately discovers what it means to live.

I thought this book was good. It allowed me to open my mind and view things differently... I must say it is an odd book. I have read nothing like it before. If you have an open ming you will enjoy:)

swimming....

2009-06-14T20:52:00.003-07:00

We are having great weather here.... I am really feeling spoiled. It was 88 degrees this morning at 10 when I picked Bryce up at a friends. We are used to temperatures over 100 by this point. I am not upset by this. I really do hate such hot weather. The only problem is.... the pools are not warm enough for me....I know ...clear your throat and tell me I am a baby. Well you would be absolutely right. AND I do not care. I have lived in Arizona long enough to not have to swim in cold water....

So I wait. And trust me people, it will get hot here!!!!

Caramel rolls...

2009-06-14T12:02:00.005-07:00

These are so good. Super easy to make... 4 ingredients.

Rhodes frozen dough balls
put in bundt pan
pour butterscotch pudding mix over the top (not instant)
mix 1/2 cup of butter and brown sugar
mix butter and sugar and pour over rolls
cover with towel
go to bed
wake up
turn on oven 350
bake for 20
eat!!!!

Enjoy!!!!

MOST EXCITED......

2009-06-10T18:02:00.002-07:00

I have blisters and a sore back. BUT I am excited? let me explain. Frank and I had some trees/bushes delivered today. I am finding some delight working in the yard. I have over 20 to plant. This ground is yard!!!! Stupid Arizona dirt. But We are gaining some ground. I am so hungry from forgetting lunch, and do not have time to post pics. I will do that tomorrow!!!

I love looking at this yard knowing Frank and I did it ourselves. I only wish it would go a bit quicker.

I'll post tomorrow!!!!

Good stuff!!!

2009-06-08T22:57:00.002-07:00

I got a lot done today. I finished my book. I organized. I did laundry. I talked on the phone. I worked in the yard. I talked with my children. I watched TV......

What more can I ask for?

Tangrams!!!

2009-06-06T13:30:00.003-07:00

Kelsey REALLY loves to do these.... 10 years later I will let you know how smart she has become!!!!

I bought a calendar for Keigan...... and it has one for each day of the year.

The tangram (Chinese: 七巧板; pinyin: qī qiǎo bǎn; literally "seven boards of skill") is a dissection puzzle consisting of seven flat shapes, called tans, which are put together to form shapes. The objective of the puzzle is to form a specific shape (given only in outline or silhouette) using all seven pieces, which may not overlap.

The Tangram may have roots in the yanjitu (燕几圖) furniture set of the Song Dynasty. This furniture set saw some variation during the Ming Dynasty, and later became a set of wooden blocks for playing.

While the tangram is often said to be ancient, the earliest known printed reference to tangrams appears in a Chinese book dated 1813, which was probably written during the reign of the Jiaqing Emperor.[1]

The tans are often stored as a rectangleThe tangram's existence in the West has been verified to no earlier than the early 19th century, when they were brought to America on Chinese and American ships. The earliest known example, given to the son of an American ship owner in 1802, is made of ivory and has a silk box.[citation needed]

The word tangram was first used in 1848 by Thomas Hill, later President of Harvard University, in his book Geometrical Puzzle for the Youth.

The author and mathematician Lewis Carroll reputedly was a tangram enthusiast and owned a Chinese book with tissue-thin pages containing 323 tangram designs. Napoleon is said[by whom?] to have owned a tangram set and Chinese problem and solution books during his exile on the island of St. Helena, although this has been contested by Ronald C. Read. Photos[of what?] are shown in The Tangram Book by Jerry Slocum.

Sam Loyd's 1903 spoof of tangram history, The Eighth Book Of Tan, claims that the game was invented 4,000 years ago by a god named Tan. The book included 700 shapes, some of which are impossible to solve. [2]

Leap Frog

2009-06-05T14:04:00.003-07:00

Brenlie loves to read. Or to be read to. I bought these Leap Pad books for my older kids years ago. Over time when I see them clearanced I have bought more. These have been in the closet. I love it when I can recycle good toys from my older kids to my younger ones.

I have reading, math, phonics, and music. I really got into it a few years back and probably have over 20 books in total.

Kyler,Kelsey, and Brenlie are having a blast. I was cleaning my bedroom and Brenlie was "reading"........

She is to cute!!!!

I am so glad I kept some of the toys over the years. Sometimes I wonder if it is worth it keeping things for so long. Today I know I am!!!!

Lets make donuts!

2009-06-03T12:14:00.003-07:00

Brie'el and Brett made these.... Don't they look yummy? I especially like Patrick Star in the middle.

I have to say I am pretty impressed. They spent the afternoon with Carol making these donuts. And they enjoyed spending time with a MOTHER!!!!

I love seeing my kids mature over the years... Good stuff

Better Blogger?

2009-06-02T14:40:00.004-07:00

I am going to take the challenge of being a better blogger!!!!
This is going to be hard... These days I seem to be at a loss for words. Crazy thought I know.... I am a talker. I text and I can talk to friends and family on the phone.

BUT....

Speechless on the computer!!!!

We did celebrate my Dad's 61st birthday. The kids swam, ate and played ball in the lawn!! Here's proof....

It was nice to spend time with my Dad and Devon and watch the kids play.

Thanks Dad for another great birthday!!!!

Kilean's 8th grade Graduation

2009-05-22T12:55:00.003-07:00

I am officially old. I now have 3 in high school, 1 on junior high and 2 in elementary school. The 3 in high school is the scary part. Yesterday I attended Kilean's 8th grade promotion at the high school. I enjoyed listening to Mrs. Vucko speak(She was Kilean and Brie'el's favorite teacher). They called 500 names rather quickly!!! They must have it down to a science with 2 people calling names at the same time.

Kilean is growing up quickly as well as my Keigan and Brie'el. Next year I will be talking about senior pictures,colleges,scholarships, and graduation...HELP!!!!

Muffins for MOM!!!!!

2009-05-08T19:54:00.005-07:00

Kyler was so very excited to perform today for all the mothers of his 1st grade class. I love the sparkle in his eyes as he sang to all of us. He was so excited to hand me my Mothers Days Gift early. A gorgeous handmade flower pot filled with paper flowers. With his picture on it!!!! We also enjoyed muffins and juice. Thanks Kyler for a great performance and snack!!!!

Am I slipping?

2009-05-07T22:27:00.006-07:00

As I get older and my kids gets older.... my rules seem to change. I wonder if child #1 would have beed given my digital camera for the day? Not thinking I would of.....
But 17 years later and MUCH wiser (I hope!) Kelsey has a blast!!!! I have a very full memory card... and a very happy little girl. The scary part is Kelsey and Brenlie did this together. They figures out what they wanted to photo and deleted the ones they did not like!

Afternoon nap?

2009-05-06T22:23:00.005-07:00

Brenlie was in bed. I was on the computer. Marley was asleep in his kennel.Kelsey ...well she fell asleep on my rock hard marble table. I'm sure the blanket she put down made a difference. Right?

To be 5 again!!!!!

The blue bathroom

2009-04-30T22:10:00.003-07:00

I have not painted in the last couple of weeks.... I needed a short break. It is hard to stay motivated. Especially when I have not read or gotten anything else done in sooooooooooo long!!!! But I am back in action, and I am about half done. Miss Brenlie keeps me busy so it is hard to get things done around here. Her favorite thing to do is get a marker and paint too. She is being helpful right? Today it was purple... if you are wondering!!

Brie'el and Brett go to Prom...

2009-04-29T20:17:00.003-07:00

I have not had time to post these pictures. Between a State Cup,end of season soccer,my house, and Prom, I am running out of time......

These two are pretty cute together. I have to admit for Brie'els first boyfriend, he is a gentleman. This year prom was held in a airport hanger. The kids had a super great time!!! Because of soccer they had dinner the night before. I was happy and impressed they both were so flexible. Bottom line is.... They are good kids!!

Brenlie turns 2.....

2009-04-28T21:44:00.003-07:00

I can remember the first day I found out I was pregnant with Brenlie. I was scared and unsure how I could ever handle 7 kids. I remember the day she was born.... She was amazingly beautiful. She was so little and so cute. She entered our full house easily. She was loved by all. It was fun to have a baby in the house. She took turns with her.Everyone wanted a turn.

Now she is 2!!! I can't believe how fast time flies by!!! She is a strong minded smart little girl. She knows what she wants and gets it. She is kind hearted and truly loved. Two years later I am glad I was given the chance to parent 7 kids....

I could not imagine life without her!!!

A good time at Uncle Aarons!!!!!

2009-04-05T22:06:00.015-07:00

Is this not the cutest hand ever?
Back float

I love this shot of Frank and Brenlie walking away
snow cone anyone?

This lady was really great with the kids

say cheese
I must resist the flowers....

My brother call me and asked me if we wanted to come over and swim at his community pool. I was so excited since the kids were bored and needed to get out of the house. The fun part is they were handing out free hotdogs, snow cones, cotton candy, soda, and chips. They also had a balloon and face painting lady. She was a lot of fun and the kids had a blast.

Kelsey and Kyler swam for 3 hours straight. They stopped to eat and sneak a snowcone in the pool.....shhh!!! The funny part was I realized they were in the pool (then took a picture) cuz I had to chuckle, then told them to get out. At that point Kyler went under water and forgot about his treat. Need less to say I was a little late on that one!!!

Brenlie loved her balloons and her little hand pained. She sucked down diet pepsi and ate her hotdog. Kyler and Kelsey swam til their hands and feet were totally pruny.

I am looking forward to more warm pool days!!

Knowing

2009-04-04T23:00:00.005-07:00

Frank and I saw Knowing tonight with Nicolas Cage. I enjoyed the movie and would recommend it to others. I think alien endings are a little hokey. This was the only thing I did not like. The special effects and story line kept me interested throughout. I was entertained and that is all that counts!!!

We have not gone out the the movies in so long, so this was a treat. My brother and his girl friend watched Kyler and Kelsey so we could go!!! Thanks Aaron and Misty.... we enjoyed the much needed time out:)

My day today....

2009-04-01T19:25:00.009-07:00

I had a pretty productive day.... My mom and I painted my dining room and I tried a new recipe for dinner...

First of all my dining room. EVERY room in my house is white. This is NoT going to work for me, so I am painting another room in my house. So far we've done the kitchen, eating nook, laundry room, family room, Kilean's room, Brie'el's room, living room, and the sitting room off my bedroom. Unfortunately I am about half done... ARG!!! It is a 4200 sq ft home with lots of walls...

I am also trying new recipes. I am tired of the same thing every night. I have been surfing food network gathering recipes from our favorite shows. Bryce and I really like Rachael Ray. So tonight we tried her Sloppy Buffalo Joes. It is made with turkey meat not buffalo, but you could probably go either way. It is supposed to remind you of eating wings. I thought it was pretty good. The kids thought it was a little spicy. So next time I will add less Franks Hot sauce!!!!

I served them with loaded mashed potatoes. These remind you of loaded potato skins. See how they both go together? I added some cheese, chives and bacon to them. Then salt and pepper.....yumm....they were good!!!!

These are things I like....

2009-03-31T22:28:00.000-07:00

I am ready to post pictures of our new home. Lots of work to do here. Frank and I have planted over 20 trees and over 30 shrubs.... Far from done, but I am beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Frank is putting in a sprinkler system in the front and back yard. The lot is 24,000sq ft so there is a lot of trenching to do.

Loving the flowers.....

This morning I walked out the door and felt pretty good. I could smell the jasmine I planted and felt pretty good at what I saw. I just love flowers.... I really am going to enjoy the courtyard . Our goal is to get the grass in the back yard before it gets too hot. This will be the 1st year we have not had a pool. So I do believe my little ones will learn to play in the sprinklers....not a bad thing.

I will keep you posted on our progress!!!!

tumbleweeds?

2009-03-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

I have to laugh... there is a lot next to ours that is vacant. This is what I see.....

Definitions of 'tumbleweed' (tŭḿbəl-wēd́) - 1 definition - The American Heritage® Dictionary

tumbleweed (n.) Any of various densely branched annual plants, such as amaranth and Russian thistle, that break off from the roots at the end of the growing season and are rolled about by the wind.

We have had a lot of wind storms living here. I am enjoying the new house tumbleweed and all!!!

1st place this weekend....

2009-03-29T22:27:00.007-07:00

United takes 1st place......This is a proud team

I am so proud of Bryce's team this weekend. They played the 4 hardest teams in their division. They won 3 and tied 1 0-0. There were no goals scored against them. That is huge. Poor Bryce can not play for the rest of the season. He broke his arm the 1st day of spring break..... So this weekend Bryce was on the side lines. He was a great ball boy!!!!!

I had to take pictures of these elephants. They are awesome. In our family we believe elephants bring good luck. In many Chinese homes they are placed facing the front door. These elephants were next to he field we played on all weekend. I wonder...could they have brought us luck?

Chiclets anyone?

2009-03-28T14:10:00.001-07:00

My kids are funny. They love chiclets, but the flavor does not last long. I guess Kilean must eat each flavor separately. So each time she was "done" she switched and neatly placed the all ready been chewed piece of gum back on the box. I like how she followed the colors of the rainbow. Then she brought it to me and it has been sitting on my bathroom counter!!!!

Thanks Kilean for sharing!!!!

Las Vegas park

2009-03-10T22:10:00.005-07:00

I found this in my phone and thought it was pretty cute.Plus I just figured out how to post videos!!!
Kyler loves to swing. He would swing all day if I let him. We were at a soccer field and they had a park WAY over on the other side. I hav a small break and this is what he got to do.... SWING!!!

Kilean Band concert tonight

2009-03-10T22:04:00.004-07:00

Kilean had a band concert at Desert Ridge tonight!!! I am always impressed with this band. I am glad she still plays even though being in band might not be the coolest thing!!!

Brenlie and her blankies

2009-03-09T14:16:00.008-07:00

About 5 years ago I made each of my kids a "silky' pillow case. It is made of tricot.( I think I spelled that right) As time went on... they were put in the closet and not used as much. We have a couple of blanket made of it also. They are very silky soft. They were Kelsey's favorite. Since we have moved I am trying to get rid of the things we have, but do not use. Brenlie came across 4 pillowcases that she calls blankies. They are her favorite and she does not share. AT ALL!!!

She is ridiculous with them in fact. She has to have all of them, which can be difficult at times.....

Oh I wish I could go back in time and snuggle with my blankies again.....

Kyler and Dr Seuss

2009-03-09T09:03:00.004-07:00

The Cat in the Cat is as fun as can be. How I wish I could be as fun as he!

(translation)

I would balance a plate scissors and crayons and a bowl of water and pencils and hand sanitizer!!!

I have to laugh... Kyler is a germaphobe. He likes to use hand sanitizer. I had to take it off his backpack because he used it so much it became a problem.

Kyler is a huge fan of Dr. Seuss!!! I am glad, he really enjoys to read.

Monkey business....

2009-03-08T17:47:00.003-07:00

Close your eyes....then imagine this sound OHH AHH AHHH.. Over and over. I turn around and I see this!!!! Kelsey, Kyler, Brenlie, and our friend Ryan are hanging on a bar. They think they are monkeys!!!I almost believed them!

Dead guy in the desert?

2009-03-06T09:48:00.003-07:00

This was less than a quarter mile from my old house.......

Man ejected, killed by truck in Mesa

Gary Grado, Tribune

March 5, 2009 - 1:01PM

A tow truck driver removes a truck from the scene of a fatal accident near Desert Ridge Junior High in Mesa.

Tim Hacker, TribunePassersby found the body of a 36-year-old man Thursday who was ejected from a pickup truck and struck by it.

Sgt. Ed Wessing, a Mesa police spokesman, said the wreck was just east of Crismon Road where Madero Avenue ends at a patch of desert, near Desert Ridge Junior High and Desert Ridge High School.

Wessing said the discovery of the wreckage and body came about 7 a.m.

He said a nearby resident went out between 1:30 a.m. and 2 a.m. to look for wreckage after hearing screeching and the sound of a collision, but she couldn’t find anything.

Later that morning, people passing by the wreckage called police to report what they had found.

Wessing said investigators measured skid marks of 180 feet before the truck left the road, an indication it was traveling fast.

Investigators are in the process of notifying the man’s relatives.

Painting frenzy!!!!

2009-03-06T09:26:00.010-07:00

I know I am a crazy person. I know this.. But we bought this house and ALL the walls are white. Not only are the walls white but the paint is flat. I hate any flat paint and white? A 6 bedroom house most likely will occupy kids. I hate it when builders paint those walls white. So I am making it my mission to paint them all. This is a 4200 sq ft home. Lots to paint. I refuse to hang things on the white walls.... So every spare chance I get I paint......

Here is some of the results!!!

I will slow down in a bit. I will take a break then tackle the upstairs. But so far I think I am doing good. I also painted the laundry room..... So 5 rooms done is not so bad!!!

Rocks and concrete!!!

2009-03-02T22:22:00.007-07:00

Can one get excited about rocks and concrete? Am I wierd? Yes folks I love them both. We found a guy who delivered 25 boulders!!! I think it took an hour to get them all out of his truck. These rocks will be used in our front and back yard. Since our house is a 24,000 sq ft lot, we have a lot of room!!! I am very excited obout our yard and can not wait to get the grass in.....let's just say it's a little dusty outside!

Kyler woke up this morning to this guy grating our yard. Exciting to a 7 year old boy. In the next 2 days a ton of concrete will be poured. Then we can park our cars in the driveway and not in front of our house. Very good news!!!

Happy 12th Birthday Bryce!!!!

2009-02-25T23:42:00.000-07:00

Bryce is such a good sport. Our day was so full we did not properly celebrate his birthday. He got home from school at 4:30. Left for soccer at 5:30. He was picked up at 7:45 from soccer.... but we went to go the a going away party for a family friend. We were there for 45 min to an hour then left for home. Then it was finally his turn. He opened his presents,ate his cake, and went to bed. I promised him tomorrow a dinner of his choice. His favorite pick right now is PEI WEI. Thanks Bryce for being you. You always manage to find the bright side of everything. I truly appreciate it!!!

In this second shot... You can see Keigan laughing. He had just grabbed Brenlie and apparently she was wet!!! New diaper anyone?

Our weekend in Tuscon

2009-02-24T23:17:00.012-07:00

Bryce made the Tournament soccer team for our region. We had a tournament in Tuscon this weekend. They did really well. They came in 2nd place. I am super proud of Bryce and his team. I stayed at my moms and really enjoyed the peace and quiet Tuscon brings.....

This is the view from my moms back yard......

This is the team

Good game

We ate dinner at the BUM STEER. It is a great hamburger restaurant. We needed a place where the whole team plus their families could attend. They were wonderful. But they did have a wrestling ring out back. Now when I suggested the place I did not know that this was something they did. I must say the boys and our coach had a wonderful time. By the end they figured out it was not real. That it could be rigged. I must say at the beginning I was a litle shocked at the fighjting ring, but in the end it was fun. And something we will never forget!!!

Brenlie walking the puppy!!!

I was able to visit with my Tuscon friends... It was nice to share a cup of coffee in her neck of the woods...

Say cheese...

A great weekend with the kids!!!

Soccer banquet

2009-02-23T21:56:00.010-07:00

Tonight was our Varsity/Junior varsity soccer banquet. It was so awesome!!! Last year I could barely get the parents to attend. This year I had over 115 players/parents. Everything came together so nicely. We had it catered by Outback Steakhouse. The food was great. Our choices were chicken or steak,mashed potatoes, salad, and rolls. Then everyone brought dessert. One of our fabulous parents brought this cake....

We also had a slide show. It was awesome..The parent involvement was overwhelming!!!

Brie'el and Jessica.

Brie'el and Brett

I am looking forward to next year!!!

President Obama comes to Dobson...

2009-02-20T10:43:00.010-07:00

This is amazing. I did not wait in line to get tickets. I did not know about that opportunity. But this is the school my kids "would" have gone to if I stayed in Dobson Ranch. We lived in that community for 10+ years. I must say I miss everyone. Since I have moved I have not found the same genuine neighborly kind of friends.

This is so exciting. I have to say I got these picture from my friend Michele Bushman. She and I have been friends since Keigan was in kindergarten. To put it in perspective he is in the 11th grade!!

Mr. President's plane ride in...

I can't count how many times I have drove on this road. Amazing to for him to give his speech in our back yard!!!

According to our friends... this girl is blind, and she sang amazing!!!

Thanks Michele for sharing your stories with me. Student council was there and these kids I have know for years playing ball with all my children. One even got to shake Obama's hand. A chance of a lifetime!!!

Miss Kilean turns 14!!!

2009-02-17T21:22:00.002-07:00

My Valentines baby turned 14 this past weekend. Lucky for me, we had a 3 day weekend. With two kids in soccer tournaments it made it next to impossible to have a slumber party before Sunday night!!!

Kilean invited 6 of her friends over for a night of fun. Her first choice in pizza is Papa Johns. My kids love the "dip"!!!

Then they went outside for a bonfire. With Frank's help(yes he was a boy scout) they had a raging fire!!!

Then it was time for smores!!!!!!

When their tummies were full they came in to play the WII....

We were lucky enough to get a WII from Granda Devie. It was a joint house warming gift/birthday gift for all the February birthdays. They each got a check to get their own game!!! Thanks grandma Devie!!

Tempur-pedic mattress

2009-02-17T21:13:00.005-07:00

Bryce has a birthday coming up....(Ya I know another February birthday!!!) So I am talking with my mom and she wants ideas. He gives me a couple of good suggestions and goes to soccer practice. I pick him up and this is what he says to me. "Mom I know what I want for Christmas." "It may be a bit silly....but you know those tempur-pedic mattresses?"

At this point I do not know what to say. Bryce? How do you know about this particular mattress? He informs me that he has laid on one at the mall and that is what he wants. I ask why......simple he like sleep!!!

So the real question is come December do I buy him a matress?

Kyler turns 7!!!

2009-02-13T23:36:00.006-07:00

Most of my friends know February is a busy month. I have 4 birthdays. I have been teased for many years so I am used to it!!! But it makes this month a little stressful getting them all handled. Kyler came home so excited from school. I brought mini cupcakes into class and he got this hat from his teacher. His name is written with glitter!!!

He got many wonderful gifts....but I do believe Keigan's gift was "the best in the whole wide world" Keigan won an IPOD shuffle about a month ago in school. He remembered at Christmas that Kyler would not stop talking about an IPOD. So Keigan saved it and gave it to him on his birthday. Kyler is SO EXCITED!!!

Thanks Keigan for being to sensitive to Kyler's feelings and being such a great big brother!!!

On a sad note I would have more pictures to post... but I left my memory card at CVS. I pray that someone did not take it. It has too many pics on it I do not want to loose....(Like Kyler's Birthday!!!)

Brie'el turns 16!!!!

2009-02-10T17:09:00.001-07:00

I am officially old. Two kids in my house drive!!!! First thing in the morning we went to the DMV to get her license. She was really nervous about her 3 point turn. She did just fine. I must say I was disappointed in the actual driving test. She was gone 5 minutes. She made 4 right turns and was done. Did not exceed 25 miles per hour. The other option was 4 left turns. For the love..... what happened to freeway driving,lane changes,parallel parking....Can anyone get their lisence? Just like that?
Well the answer is yes!!!!

Frank and I found a car for Brie'el. It is a 1998 Madza. It has 68k miles on it. It is in great shape. I took her to the dealership and Frank delivered it to her. She had some friends over and had a bon fire in our new backyard!! (that is another post) We did not do an official party.... but celebrated all weekend.

Happy Birthday Brie'el!!!!!

Desert Ridge girls soccer are going crazy!!

2009-02-09T22:52:00.008-07:00

Believe it or not... our DRHS girls are in the semi-finals. I am soo very excited. We started out strong this season then lost our last 4 games. We were in 13th place. Our first playoff game was in Tuscon. They were in 4th place. They were supposed to win!!! They did not. Brie'el shot a fabulous corner kick right into the goal. It was truly amazing. This goal started the rally..... they won that game in double overtime. The score 3-2.
Then we played our second game at Grand Canyon University. This game against Deer valley. Again they were supposed to win. This is were our cheerleaders come into hand......

These kids are amazing.... they come to every game and cheer their hearts out. I can not wait for the next game. They are way fun to cheer with. They were out of order in the GO Jags! when I took the picture.... but you get the idea:)

We won the second game 2-1

This picture was taken after the game in Tuscon....

We play again on Wednesday 5pm at Grand Canyon university again. We play Horizon. Wish us luck!!!

Great pictures!!!

2009-01-25T17:37:00.003-07:00

I let Kelsey use my camera. I taught her everything I know about taking good pictures. I taught her how to delete. How to zoom in. I told her take whatever you want. They are her pictures.

I am happy to say she enjoys taking ones of Brenlie the most. The chair is pretty. The floor is too. Might need some more practice?

Crazy hair day!!!

2009-01-24T21:32:00.005-07:00

Brenlie woke up with....well. Crazy hair!!!

After a few tries to get the perfect shot... She gave up on me.

I think what she was trying to say was...."That's enough!!"

More birthday pictures!!!

2009-01-11T22:04:00.005-07:00

Just a few more pictures of Kelsey. She really enjoys us singing to her . I love the face she makes. You can tell she is embarrassed... but happy it is her day!!! Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for all the super great gifts!!

Kelsey turns 5...

2009-01-10T22:32:00.008-07:00

Sorry for the late post.. Kelsey turned 5 on January 7th!!!

Kelsey had a great day. She was a great sport. We all waited for Frank to get home from work to do cake and icecream.

We took her to lunch at Applebees. They all sang to her. She was so embarrassed. Then she has a strawberry sundae.

We also met up with my dad. We went to Cafe Rio. For those of you who have not been there it is very good mexican food. They have super good service, good food, and very clean. You must go try for yourself. It is located on Gilbert and Baseline. Southwest corner!!! Kelsey had a cheesecrips and shared my chicken enchilada.

Kelsey got a princess tea set, disney art set, disney polly pockets, some clothes, a cello sticker maker, and a necklace and ring set. She is set for awhile!!!

Happy Birthday Kelsey!!!

This is a cool car!!!

2009-01-10T08:13:00.001-07:00

Driving down the road I saw this car. The girl driving does not look real.

For the record I do not drink Red Bull and do not like what is in it. My kids are not allowed to drink it..... but the car is cool!!!

18 Years!!!

2008-12-31T14:50:00.005-07:00

December 29th 1990.... That was the day. We lived in Everett, Washington. It was a small wedding. Good thing. That day we had a HUGE snowstorm. I have video of the roads iced over. We were not sure everyone would be able to make it....

18 years later. We have experienced a lot and shared more memories than I can remember. We have also been blessed with 7 children. Life is good.

Frank and I went to the Salt Cellar( a great recommendation!!) for dinner. If you like seafood.... it was awesome!!!! It is in Scottsdale, look it up!!! I had lobster and Frank had bay scallops in a shrimp cream sauce over a bed of jasmine rice. we had the BEST clam chowder and a shrimp appetizer that was to die for. I'm telling you...Great food!!!

Then we went to the movies. I can not remember the last time I did dinner and movies in one night. We had a great time. We saw The Day the Earth Stood Still. It was OK. I suggest rent it if you really want to see it!

I never regret getting married. i am thankful to have Frank in my life and am glad he picked me. Thanks Frank... Looking forward to 18 more.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-28T20:38:00.007-07:00

Another wonderful Christmas. This year we scaled back. I am happy about the change. My kids were still very lucky. They received many wonderful gifts this year. Kyler's favorite was the Star Wars Legos and his bakugan arena. Kelsey's I would say was her Baby go Bye Bye. Brenlie got a stroller for her new baby. That was a hit along with her "new food" for her kitchen. The girls got a baby teacup poodle(a little early) and a chi straightener. Bryce a keepers jersey movies and a new video game. Keigan video games and clothes. I would say they are all still pretty happy!!!

We ate two very good meals. Christmas Eve at my DADS and Christmas day at my MOMS.I am lucky enough to have 2 sets of parents that are great cooks and great bakers. We ate good food and shared lots of laughs.

It was also nice to all be together as a family. Both Frank and my brothers work a lot, so it was nice to have all of us together!!!!

I am happy the holidays are almost over. I am NOT looking forward to taking everything down. I am sure it will easily be a 2 day project!!!!

Desert Ridge boys and girls come in 1st PLace!!!!

2008-12-16T20:43:00.009-07:00

DRHS GIRLS SOCCER!!!!!

Thursday and Friday this last weekend DRHS hosted a soccer tournament. This year the proceeds went to Coach Hopp. He is currently fighting cancer. We all miss having him around and hope he feels better soon.

Both the girls and the boys did great. We both came in 1st place in this tournament. Overall there were 9 teams for the boys and 8 for the girls that came to play. Some as far away as Safford and Page Arizona.

Brie'el played well. We have an awesome coach for the girls.

Kelsey was so cute. She went to most of the games and wanted to have her picture taken also!!!! She is their best cheerleader

!!!!

Marching Band Banquet

2008-12-12T21:31:00.005-07:00

Keigan had his marching band banquet tonight. They served dinner from Texas Roadhouse. I had chicken and Keigan had pulled pork. YUM!!!! It was nice to spend some time with Keigan's friends in the band. Keigan was the baritone section leader this year so he received a pen with his name embossed on it. Keigan is looking forward to his senior year in band next year. Good job Keigan!!!!

What did you say?

2008-12-11T09:37:00.002-07:00

Brenlie is saying a lot of new words these days. A lot of times complete sentences. This is great. She has also mastered a fabulous Temper Tantrum. So being able to let us know what she wants has been helpful.

Brenlie says two words really well. The first one I have to laugh about. COKA... First I thought it was cookie. Then I realized it was a drink. COKA. OF course she would like a drink of my diet coke. A perfect drink for my 18 month!!!

Second. You have to roll your tongue when you say this one BLA BLA. This one a little tougher. BLA BLA.. Her index finger usually gives me a clue. "Banana?" She gives me a great big smile. YES!!!!

Kyler in Pretty Princess Heels?

2008-12-10T16:48:00.005-07:00

This is too funny. My story starts this morning. Mom we have crazy hair day. Really? Don't worry I will take care of it. We were running a bit late and honestly I forgot about it all. He comes home and his hair is...well..a bit frizzy!!! I guess he rubbed and rubbed and rubbed until..well it all got frizzy. (This portion of the story will make more sense in a minute.)

Kyler comes downstairs in Belle Princess High Heels. He is walking around quite well I must add. He gets a snack and is buzzing around the kitchen. I scan quickly for a camera. I find my trusty phone.I think fast. "Kyler let me take a picture of your crazy hair" wink wink. He figures out very fast my true intentions to get a picture of him in high heels. That is why it is blurry.

Crazy kid. Sometimes I wish they could stay this cute forever.

TA DA!!!

2008-12-08T13:09:00.007-07:00

I love the holidays. But it also brings on "a little stress". I always feel like everything has to be perfect. I want the house decorated inside and out. I have to buy and wrap presents for my family of 9!!! Then we have friends and family.I like Christmas pictures and a family letter. I want them mailed before Christmas. We have holiday parties for friends and family. Then we have soccer parties. Let's not forget band concerts for elementary, junior high, and high school levels. Every year at this time we also have a saxophone recital as well. Am I forgetting anything? Probably!!!! Like high school soccer,club soccer, and tournament soccer for Bryce.

I'm thinking a great amount of this can be eliminated. But every year it is the same grind. But I think I like it. About this time of year (Before New Years) I reflect my year and wonder what my family is about. And I know!!! Lots of things. I enjoy what my kids do and I Like things just right!!

We have 3 trees this year. Our main tree has 20 years of collected ornaments. I would love to do a themed tree. You know the kind...Red and gold balls only. White lights, and matching wrapping paper. OK I am just kidding!!!I am years away from that stuff. I am pretty sure the princess wrapping paper will be around for awhile!!!

This is decorated with Sponge bob ornaments!!!

I am not sure how many boxes of decorations I have but I must say Chritmastime is the best!!!

This silver tree is so funny. Frank brought it home last year . He bought it on clearance. It reminded him of his Grandma. I thought it was hideous. But... I let it go. Then I cam back from Vegas and it was put up in my family room. Witha few ornaments I'm thinking it is growing on me. What do you think?