Jeff, Marian, Drazen, Braxton, Carlee and Katie

Scout Camp

2010-07-22T15:52:00.000-07:00

Drazen and Braxton left for Del Webb Scout Camp Monday morning. It's Braxton's first time going camping for a whole week. It should be interesting how he does. He worries me a little. I had to make sure to call his leader to let him know Braxton wears contacts, and if he could please make sure that he takes them out every night with CLEAN hands!!! (I know I am a little protective, what can I say)
Drazen went to High Adventure Camp at Del Webb. He was really excited about it. They were hiking every day, and I guess by the end of camp they will have hiked 30 miles. His backpack was Huge and HEAVY. He had everything he needed for a week of camp with him, including his tent. Thank you to uncle Scott for letting us borrow the backpack, tent, etc.
They will be back on Saturday. And I have to say it has been pretty quite around here. Girls have nobody to fight with, or anyone to tease them.
But we sure do miss those boys, and can't wait for them to come home!!!!

Brianhead/Strawberry Point

2010-07-22T15:08:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to Brianhead with the other Andersons. We had a great time as usual. It was very relaxing, despite it being a VERY short trip!!! Jeff, the girls and I left late to get there. We only had Saturday to do anything. We played hearts, BANG. We drove to Duck Creek for Duck Creek Days. WOW, that place was packed!!! I had never seen so many ATV's. The kids had a great time. Drazen, Braxton, Katie and Kaya even rode the bull. We then drove to my aunt and uncles cabin in Strawberry Point. As always that was a lot of fun. The kids four wheeled, and we all just hung out. Jeff and Ty went fishing and to meet up with Scott. (It can't be a trip to UT without Jeff getting in at least a couple of hours of fishing) On their way back to the condo, they had a flat on my car. It just added to our weekend. On Thursday evening, my battery died, and we had to get a new one. Sunday morning, on our way home, we of course stopped in Cedar to buy 4 new tires.
We had a great weekend as alwyas. All the kids have so much fun there. They all get along really well, which always helps.

Bull Rides - KATIE!!!!

2010-07-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

Bull Rides - BRAXTON!!!

2010-07-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

Bull Rides - DRAZEN!!!!

2010-07-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

4th of July

2010-07-22T14:46:00.000-07:00

This year for the 4th,we stayed in LV, and celebrated Anderson style, with Kaya's baptism, swimming, and of course a fireworks show.
On Saturday, Kaya was baptized. It was really nice. Kaya is so sweet, and we are so proud of her. After the baptism we went to Ty and Kristen's for a family dinner. It was so much fun, just hanging out with family.
On Sunday (4th), after church, we all went to Jen and Scott's for a little bit of swimming. Everyone had a great time until Mel hit her head. Luckily, she was okay. But that was pretty much everyone's cue to get out of the pool, well except the kids. After that, we ordered pizza and went to my house for our fireworks show. Ty, Jeff and Brad did a great job keeping us entertained. The kids had a BLAST!!! Brea, I think had the most fun. She was so excited, she was about to jump out of her skin. Our firework show probably lasted about 45 minutes to an hour. We did miss the Brown family during our weekend festivities. Next year Browns, you are staying with us!! haha

4th of July-Part 2

2010-07-21T15:02:00.000-07:00

This video is very dark!!! Brea had a GREAT time during the firework show!!!

Update!!!`

2010-06-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy that I just have not had time to update my blog. I am just going to post pictures of what we have done lately, that would include a LOT of baseball, ballet, gym, things going on at school, etc.
In the midst of everything going on, our boy Braxton turned 12 on April 21st. I can't believe that Braxton is already 12. WOW!!! He is a deacon and ready to pass the sacrament. He won't cut his hair yet, even though the whole baseball team made a pact to do so. We really didn't do much for his birthday. We went to dinner at Macayo's. (his favorite place) He and Jeff went shopping and he got a new baseball glove. That is all he wanted.
Braxton, Happy Birthday. We love you so much, even though you are at the age where your favorite words are "WOW" and "SO" (in a sarcastic way). Hopefully one day you will outgrow this stage and be our sweet boy again. (Not that you aren't sweet right now, most of the time you are, but sometimes your attitude takes over your sweetness.)
We love you buddy!!!!

Carlee & Isabel for Dr. Seuss Day

Katie & Jada for Dr. Seuss Day

Katie and Carlee for Crazy hat day

And .... for girls there is gymnastics and ballet

2010-05-02T07:16:00.000-07:00

Carlee and Katie are still enjoying doing what they love the most. Carlee is still in gymnastics, and Katie is still in ballet. Carlee actually tried out for Pre team, and instead ended up making Level 4 Prep. She will be in Level 4 in January and will start competing. She is SUPER excited about it. She is still at Brown's and loves every minute of it. She goes 3 days a week for 2 hours each day.
Katie is still going to ballet. She recently had RAD testing to move up. RAD is a Royal Academy of Dance test. Their headquarters are in London. All the scores after the test have to go through their offices here in the US and then get recorded with headquarters. This is serious business. She loves it though. She goes two days a week. She has a few friends she goes with so I am sure that makes it that much more fun.
All in all our girls are doing great. They are doing great in school, and in their activities.
This makes for Happy times at the Anderson house. And very busy times!!! Jeff and I are always on the go!!

Baseball, baseball and more baseball........

2010-05-02T07:06:00.000-07:00

IS there anything else to be said?!.....Drazen and Braxton have been very busy with baseball. Which in turn, makes us very busy with baseball. Drazen is now on the JV team at Sierra Vista, and still playing club ball with the Monarchs. Braxton is still playing club and is currently playing for Peccole LL as well. Jeff is the assistant coach for the LL team. They have games at least 3 days a week. Drazen has at least 2-3 games a week. And on top of that, there are times that right after a high school game, we drive right to our club team game. Poor Drazen, he must be exhausted. He leaves for seminary at 5:30 am and then has school, stays for baseball, and sometimes has a club game right after school baseball. There are times we don't get home until after 11pm. He has done great though. He is still getting straight A's, and finishing up all of his homework. I am very impressed. I don't think I could have done that.
So, right now, our lives are baseball!!! I may sound like I am complaining, but really I am not! Our boys are involved in sports which they LOVE, and we are supporting them in doing something they love. I know where they are at all times, and they are not stuck in the house playing video games all day either. So, this is good!!!!
So, if you would like to visit us, we are at one of many baseball fields in town!!! :)

Easter

2010-05-01T07:03:00.000-07:00

For Easter this year, we went to my parents' house for a brunch after church (our church currently starts at 8am...). I think the kids had a great time. Kristen came with her kids, and George and Cami were also there. We had an Easter egg hunt for the kids, and then they all just played. It was a pretty mellow day. The day before Easter, Cami and I took the girls to Aliante, where they had an Easter Egg Drop!! The eggs were dropped from the helicopter and the place was a zoo. The girls each got about 6 eggs. The areas were blocked off for each age group and parents were supposed to stand on the outside and wait for their kids to come to them. (The idea was good but it doesn't quite work out so well) Anyway, Katie walked out crying because a couple of parents took eggs out of her basket. Are you kidding me, what it wrong with people?!

Happy Birthday Katie-bird!

2010-04-01T06:57:00.000-07:00

Katie's birthday fell on a Sunday this year, so we decided to celebrate on Saturday. She invited all of her friends from school, and her cousins. The girls had a great time. They painted flower pots, and we planted flowers in them for girls to take home after the party. (instead of the goody bags, I figured this is something they would enjoy more). They also played "hot" potato, these girls love to play that game. It never gets old. All in all it was a lot of fun.
Katie turned 7 this year. I can't believe that my baby is already 7. Boy, how the time flies. Happy Birthday Katie, we love you so much. You are such a beautiful girl, full of personality, very smart and super funny.

UGH!!!!!!

2010-03-05T11:01:00.000-08:00

I have to vent for a minute!
Some people really need to learn how to drive!!! I got a call this morning from Jeff that he was in an accident! Really? Are you kidding me?! He is okay and it wasn't his fault, but oh man.... there is so much to deal with!!!! And that truck is his BABY!!! It's barely a year old! Really??!!! The good news though is that the guy at fault does have valid insurance!YAY - (we didn't want to go through that again) And our insurance has been great!!! And also that Jeff is okay and not hurt!!!!!
There were four vehicles involved all because of one idiot! He was making a left turn on a red light!!!!

UGH...........................................

Visting Family, Snowboarding & Skiing

2010-03-01T14:49:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love the snow!!!! It kind of bums me out that it doesn't snow here. My kids and I love going skiing and snowboarding. (I just wish Jeffy would not be such a desert rat,LOL)
A couple of weekends ago, my mom, the kids and I packed up and drove to Orem to visit Brad and Mel and to go play in the snow. We had so much fun! We went to Sundance on Friday, and on Saturday, my mom took the boys back up. We were debating whether to go there again or to Snowbird, but Snowdance was a lot closer. (20 minutes). Mel and I just hung around the house. It was the best!! I have been so busy with boys and baseball lately that I didn't mind just sitting around and catching up. We did go to Ikea, of course!
Katie was so excited to go, but when we got to Orem, she decided that she wasn't going because she didn't want to leave London by herself. So, she stayed and played with London!
Carlee skied while the boys snowboarded. They are so good out in the snow. Braxton gave me grief for about two hours on Friday, telling me how he is horrible on the snowboard and how he can't snowboard. I was so MAD at him. After about two hours of yelling at each other back and forth and numeours calls to Jeff, I convinced him that he is good, and the only way to get better is to keep trying. We went back on the lift and after that I couldn't get him off the mountain. He was having SO much fun. When I told the boys at 4:30 that was it, Braxtoon said: "Oh man! I didn't even get to snowbaord that much!" (really Braxton, if you didn't complain forever you would have gotten a chance) Kids.....UGH!!!!!
All in all it was a great weekend. It was so fun visiting with Brad and Mel and those two ADORABLE girls!!!! I love those girls and miss them so much!!!! London is talking, and it's so cute! Brea is just the happiest little girl. She is always smiling!!!!
Thanks for letting us stay with you Andersons!!!!!!

Dolphin Habitat and Secret Garden

2009-12-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

Oh Track Break....why are you so long????
Carlee and Katie are on Track break from Thanksgiving to January 4th. It is a little long, and the girls have even been telling me they are bored. Are you kidding me? When I was a kid, I went and played and found things to do. Now I have to sit and entertain my kids because they get bored so easily.
Jen and I decided it would be fun to take our kids to Dolphin Habitat and Secret Garden at the Mirage. We got up, got ready and drove out there. It was the kids' first time inside of Mirage. They loved the big fish tank behind the hotel registration desk. They sat and watched all the fish there for about 15 minutes. Then we went out to the back. It was so fun. The dolphins swam around and played with their trainers. The kids loved it. They sat and watched the dolphins forever. We then walked over to the Secret Garden to see what they had there. Those white tigers are BEAUTIFUL!!!! And HUGE!!!!
All in all we had a great field trip. The kids had fun and they weren't bored!!! Mission accomplished.

GREG AND SARAH TIED THE KNOT!!!!

2009-10-28T21:51:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, we went to Arizona for Greg and Sarah's wedding. They got married in, Mesa Temple, and had their reception in Sarah's parents' backyard. Everything was so beautiful!!!! It was about 90 degrees outside on Saturday. It was a perfect day for a wedding. Sarah looked beautiful. Her dress was gorgeous, and my girls told me that's the kind of dress they want when they get married. Katie even told us that she is going to marry Jackson.
The reception was so much fun. Everyone had a great time. I loved that Drazen took Carlee out and danced with her. And I love that all of the cousins went on the dance floor and danced. It was so fun to see our family that we don't get to visit often because they moved so FAR AWAY from us. We loved seeing our friends that we don't get to see often because they moved SO FAR away from us. And for those of you that couldn't make it, you were missed.The food was great. The backyard was beautiful. They had a live band. And for those that know Greg and Sarah, the reception was them to a T!!! They had a rice krispies cake (Greg LOVES rice krispies), a candy bar with about 8 or 9 different types of candies with baggies next to them (the kids were loving it), and desserts they liked. Everything was perfect!!! It was THE BEST wedding!!! Greg looked so handsome. I still cant' believe that our little Greggy is married. He is Jeff's youngest brother, and I have known him since he was about 12. I still think of him that young. We are so protective of him and we think of him as one of our own kids. We are so happy for him, and that he found Sarah. She is an amazing girl, and she truly makes Greg happy!!! We love you both and we are so excited for you to start this new chapter in your lives together. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

GREG & SARAH TIED THE KNOT - Part 2

2009-10-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

ANNIVERSARY

2009-10-16T21:37:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I celebrated 14 blissful years October 6th. For our anniversary, we thought it would be fun to go somewhere. So, we packed our bags, booked our flight, and hotel room (the night before we left) and on October 9th flew to Seattle for the weekend. Neither of us had ever been there, so we thought it would be fun to go. We had so much FUN!!! We took our first cab ride ever to the hotel, and from there we walked everywhere!!!! We spent half a day Friday and ALL day Saturday, just walking and sightseeing. It was so nice, we didn't have to worry about running here or there. Friday night, we met Jeff's friend for dinner. He took us to a restaurant where we can see the whole city at night!!!! The view was amazing!!!!!!
Saturday, we got up, and walked to the Space Needle. The view from there - WOW!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!! From the Space Needle, we walked to Pike's Place, and then to Pioneer Square. Pike's Place was great. There was so much to see. I was so amazed at everything, but probably at all the FRESH CUT flowers that were SO CHEAP!!! I wanted to bring bouquets home so bad. I so wish there was a way!!!! I wish we had that here!!!! Saturday evening we went to see Couple's Retreat!!! I thought the movie was hilarious!!!!
Sunday, we walked to the bookstore and just hung out til it was time to leave. I was really sad to leave, but excited to come home and see the kiddies.
Seattle is an amazing city!!! I loved all the fall colors. It was beautiful!!!!
The trip was awesome!!! Jeffy, thank you so much for everything that you do for our family. You are amazing, and I love you so much.

Anniversay Part 2

2009-10-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

Miley Cyrus Concert

2009-09-30T22:34:00.000-07:00

Katie and I went to Miley Cyrus concert. It was so much fun, and I am so glad that Kristen called me with two extra tickets at the last minute. We were at Braxton's game, when Kristen called me and told me that she just got 5 tickets, and if one of my girl's and I wanted to go. Carlee was out of town with her Girl Scout troop so Katie and I drove home real fast, changed our clothes, and rushed to Thomas and Mack. We got there just as Miley took the stage. The concert was fun and we had a great time. Katie loved it. It was her first concert! Thanks so much for thinking of us Kristen.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DRAZEN!!!!

2009-09-08T21:31:00.000-07:00

Drazen turned 14 on September 7th. He wanted a party at the park with about 20 of his "closest" friends. Everyone had a great time. The boys, big and small, played baseball, football, and frisbee golf.
Drazen is 14??!!! Need I say more??????????

Drazen, happy birthday. Dad and I wish you a happy birthday, and hope that all of your wishes come true. We love you so much. Thank you for being you!!! You are turning into a GREAT young man!!!! Love, Mom and Dad

First Day of School!

2009-08-25T21:21:00.000-07:00

Well... the first day of school, went great. This year our family has gone through a few changes. Drazen is a freshman at Sierra Vista HS, Braxton is in 6th grade at Faiss MS, Carlee is in 4th and Katie is in 1st grade at William Wright ES. ALL OF MY BABIES ARE IN SCHOOL!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOW!!!! I can't believe it. Jeff and I now have at least one child in elementary, middle and high school!! Where has the time gone??!!!
The kids all love school. They all have great teachers. I am very happy about that. And they are all doing great. Drazen is soooooooo busy, by the time he gets home, he just wants to take a shower, eat and go to bed. He starts his day off early. Jeff drives him and a couple of his buddies to seminary at 5:30am, then he has school from 7-1:30pm, and then baseball practice from 1:30-5pm.
Braxton has joined a baseball club team. He really wanted to try out all summer and we finally gave in. That is super busy, but good busy. He is really enjoying it.
Carlee is in gymnastics, and loving it. Right now it's recriational, but she is really hoping to do eventually end up in competetive soon.
Katie is still in ballet, and she loves it.

Del Mar - Part 2!!!

2009-08-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

Del Mar '09!!!

2009-08-21T17:42:00.000-07:00

Kristen and I have been trying to go to the beach basically ALL summer!!!! Our wish finally came true, and last week we packed up our families for a five day trip to good ole' Del Mar!!!! We had a BLAST to say the least!!!!A few nicknames were born at the beach. LaJolla and Munchies were just a couple during our "friendly" games of hearts!!! The weather was GREAT, kids were FANTASTIC, and everyone had FUN!!!!! What more could you ask for???!!!!! Our daily routine was to get up, eat breakfast, put on bathing suits, get COVERED in sunblock, make lunches and go down to the beach!!!! Boogey boarding, and jumping the waves of course was a must on daily basis. The kids loved making sand castles, and digging. Jeff of course fished, and even talked Ty into it. He now swears that Ty "loves fishing"!!!! On Tuesday we closed the beach DOWN!!!! We stayed there till about 7pm. After the beach, we would come upstairs, the kids and dads would go into the pool until dinner was ready, and then the kids would shower and put on their pj's. One day they even asked me why did they bother bringing any clothes if they are only wearing pj's.

Jeff's Bday!!!!

2009-08-21T17:24:00.000-07:00

We also celebrated Jeffy's bday the same weekend as Katie's recital. It was very low key!!!!! We just made him breakfast, and then went swimming at my mom's. The kids got Jeff a fly tying kit with a book. Happy fishing Jeff!! Happy birthday hubby!!! Thanks for being the best hubby ever!! I love you very much.

Emma

Human tower

Ty and Kaya

Jeff with the kids (minus Carlee) and his fly tying kit

Peter Pan Recital

2009-08-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

August 8th and 9th Katie had her dance recital!!! As usual Mrs. K puts on the BEST recital in town. She is truly amazing. Katie and her best friend Emily have been taking ballet classes from Mrs. K now for about a year and a half. This is her 3rd dance recital!!! The recitals are always at Nicholas Horn Theatre at CSN Cheyenne campus. They usually have 2-3 dress rehersals there the week of the recital. Mrs. K is very serious about this, and it shows during the recital. This year's theme was Peter Pan. Katie was a fairy. It was a lot of fun, and she loved it!!!!
And thank you aunt Jen, Miles, grandma Mira and Kaya for coming to it!!!!

Kinder graduation/Little Red Hen play!

2009-08-21T16:56:00.000-07:00

Our baby girl, Katie-bird graduated kindergarten August 6th. The day her kindergarten class had a Little Red Hen play in their classroom. It was so CUTE!!! Ms. Kern did such good job. The kids practiced it for a month or so, and had to have their lines memorized. Katie was one of the chickens.

On Thursday, August 6th was Katie's kindergarten graduation. I can't believe that my baby is now a first grader. Time flies!!!! She had an amazing 1st year in school. She had a great teacher, and made lots of friends. Well, she knew most of her classmates from church, and pre-school. Katie is growing up to be such a fun, smart, outgoing, fun girl. She loves school, and loves hanging out with her friends. Katie we are so proud of you!!!!

Katie and her BFF Emily

End of the school year!

2009-08-21T16:34:00.000-07:00

Well, July has been a busy month for us. Drazen continued with legion ball for most of the month. Braxton and Carlee finished school. Braxton graduated from 5th grade and is moving up to middle school in the fall. (I can't believe it) He had a great year, with a great teacher, Ms. Dean. It was also her last year teaching, as she moved to Fine E.S. to be a librarian. Braxton finished the school year with straight A's. We are so proud of you Braxton and of all of your accomplishments in elementary school. You are a great young man, and we love you so much.
Carlee finished 3rd grade this year. She had Mrs. Schroeder. She is an amazing teacher. She was also Braxton's teacher for 3rd grade. Carlee couldn't wait to have her. She is so cute, fun, and most importantly a GREAT teacher!!!!! I absolutely love her and can't wait for Katie to be in 3rd grade!!!(anyone that needs a good 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Schroeder comes HIGHLY recommended!!!))) Carlee had a great year. We are so proud of you Carlee. You are growing up to be such a fun, beautiful, smart, funny young lady. We are so proud of you. Carlee also finished the year off with straight A's.

Girls weekend/Boys weekend

2009-07-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was able to have Girls weekend with just my two girls. The boys went with some friends to an Angels game in Anaheim.
We had so much fun. We slept in on Saturday, and then got ready, picked up my mom, and went to the mall for some school shopping and to go to Build A Bear. Carlee and Katie each got a new bear, and some new clothes for school. Dillard's had a "Kids Day", so they had activities. They had a hula hoop contest, with prizes (Webkinz accessories), face painting, drawing for a backpack, etc. After that we went to McDonald's for lunch, and then back to Grandma Mira's for swimming and dinner. We ended up swimming until about 9 p.m. It was so fun and relaxing.
On Sunday, we went to see Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, with some friends. The movie was great, but it was LONG!!!!!

The boys went to Anaheim to an Angels game, with a friend of Drazen's and his dad. They had a great time, to say the least!!! Angels are Drazen and Braxton's FAVORITE team. And they had great seats. They sat in the 2nd and 3rd row from the field at 3rd base. And of course, got to see security in full action. I guess some guy went on the field, and got arrested immediately. Why do people have to be so dumb? That didn't phase these Angels fans though. Angels won the game.
After the game, they went to dinner, and some night swimming at the pool in their hotel. On Sunday, they just got up, had breakfast, and drove home.

This is a memorial for #34 Adenhart.

Jeffy's baby!

2009-07-27T18:59:00.001-07:00

Well, Jeff's truck was 5 years old and reached 91,000 miles, so he decided it was time to go looking for a new truck. He looked on the internet last Sunday night, and Monday night we went and looked at trucks. On Tuesday morning, Jeff became a proud owner of a brand new 2009 F150 FX4. The truck is so nice!!!It has a leather seats, fully loaded. I was able to drive it on Tuesday, but he couldn't wait for me to get home, so he can take his new baby for a ride. He is so excited!!!!

51's game

2009-07-27T18:48:00.000-07:00

For Drazen's end of the season party from Peccole Little League, we all went to a
51's game last week. Drazen and his team went down to the field, and had their name called out when they ran to the position with the player from 51's. It was cool. At the 7th inning stretch Drazen and his two buddies from the team went into the press box to sing "Take me out to the Ball Game"! His coach said that the two boys were kind of shy and wasn't sure if they would do it, but that Drazen said he would. Drazen has NO SHAME for things like that. He will do anything. I videoed them, but you can't really hear it. Maybe, this was Drazen's big break!!! American Idol here he comes!! haha

Swimming

2009-07-27T18:44:00.000-07:00

I guess we are finding things to do now that baseball is over. Swimming at Grandma Mira's is always fun and full of adventure ( for those of you that know my mom. Jen and I packed up the kids a couple of weeks ago and went to cool off in her pool. Hannah and Neuman were here also, so that made it extra fun for the kids.

Gublers

2009-07-27T18:37:00.000-07:00

M.J. and the kids drove down to Vegas to hang out with us for a day. We had so much fun. I haven't seen M.J. since Christmas, and I don't even remember when the last time was that our kids played together. Jen and her boys came over also. Dylan and Miles were really good friends, when we all lived across town.

Kylee, Carlee, Mariah

Peyton, Kylee, Carlee, Mariah, Kyra

Peyton, Braxton, Cooper, Drazen, Kylee, Carlee, Mariah

Legion Baseball June-July 09

2009-07-27T18:26:00.000-07:00

Drazen played his first year of American Legion Baseball for Sierra Vista H.S. this summer. WOW!!! I can't believe I have a child old enough to be in high school! This was a reality check, seeing him with all the other kids (young men) his age or older. Some were sophomore's, some were juniors. It's crazy!!! He had a great season though. They had practices Monday through Friday from 9-11a.m. and games at 5p.m. every day of the week. (Monday through Sunday!!!! So, needless to say we have been slightly busy!!!!! And now it's all over, and we don't know what to do with our time!!!! Drazen really enjoyed it though. He played 1st base, left field, center field, and he caught.

That's Drazen behind the plate! The only day I took pictures.

And that's Drazen batting. He was #9.

4th of July

2009-07-24T08:46:00.000-07:00

For the weekend of the 4th, we went to BrianHead with Ty and Kristen and their kids. We had so much fun. The weather was great. It was a nice and relaxing weekend. The kids played, we took walks, Jeff took us fishing to his favorite spot, he even tried catching a fish for Malcolm! On our little fishing trip, Drazen hooked a rock and Katie walked into a branch. Other than that, it was a great trip. The Fire Dept. at BrianHead puts on a FANTASTIC Fireworks show!!! It was amazing!!! And all the people that come to watch, it's unbelieveable. I think it took about an hour for all the vehicles to clear up, after the Fireworks. People were coming in the morning and parking their vehicles, pulling out their chairs and bbq's, to get a good spot for the evening show.
Tanks Ty and Kristen for inviting us to come up with you. We had a great time!!!!

Katie's 1st science project, and letter people party!!!!

2009-07-13T08:07:00.000-07:00

Katie had a science project due in kindrgarten this month. At first, I kwas a little hesitant about having a kindergartener doing a science project, but it actually turned out really cute. They had to pick out an insect to learn more about. There was a fact sheet that she had to fill out. Katie picked out a ladybug. We learned a lot about them. It was kind of neat. Then we made a ladybug out of poster board. Last Thursday, Katie had to present her report in front of the whole class. She read the report, and then she had to answer 6-7 questions from her classmates about her insect. She did so good. I am so proud of her.

On Friday, they had their Letter People Party!!!! Each child ws supposed to pick out a letter they wanted to be, and dress up. Katie picked out Mr. C for Ctton Candy!!!! We cut out 2 big C's out of poster board. One for front of her shirt and one for the back. We then decided to glue cotton candy to her shirt. By the time, the glue dried, most of the cotton candy was melted. So we decided to glue cotton balls!!! And VOILA, it worked great!!! She looked so cute going to school like that. But by the end of the school day, she was soooo done with that shirt. She wanted to change soooooooo bad!!!! And I think Ms. Kern is such an awesome teacher. Katie has really learned a lot this year.

Drazen's new DO!!!

2009-06-01T12:43:00.000-07:00

Drazen has been telling me for a couple of months, that he wants to cut his hair right before high school. Well, that time came last week and I couldn't be happier!!!! Haha
Since now he plays for Sierra Vista's Legion baseball, he decided it was time to cut his hair. Everyone on the team has short hair, and a couple of juniors told him that if he also wants to play spring ball, and get in good with the coaches he should cut it. The coaches don't like long hair!!!! (music to my ears, it has been a long four years) He is so handsome no matter what, but doesn't this haircut make him SOOOO handsome????!!! He was so excited to go to school the next day and show it off, and after school said that ALL the girls LOVED it!!! Oh, no!!!
BEFORE:

AFTER:

Braxton is pitching!!!

2009-06-01T12:35:00.000-07:00

Since Jeff has been coaching Braxton's team, he has been working with Braxton on his pitching. He has really been wanting to have Braton pitch!!!! Braxton pitched a few of the games this season, and is really doing a great job!!! He loves pitching, and is really LOVING baseball!!!!
On Saturday was his first playoff game. Even though our team lost (thanks to a HORRIBLE call made by a BLIND umpire, that cost us the game), Braxton DID an OUTSTANDING job pitching. I am so proud of him. He only pitched two innings (Jeff doesn't like the kids to pitch a lot, because they are still young and he doesn't want to hurt their arm) he had 22 pitches TOTAL, and a NO HITTER!!!!! How AWESOME IS THAT!!!!!!!!! He struck everyone out, except one fly ball that he caught, and walked a kid, that got out!!!!! WOOHOO Braxton!!!! He ws really proud of himself also. Now he keeps asking us, if he can try out for a club team.
And I thought baseball was going to be over for a couple of months!!! YEAH RIGHT!!!!(these are not the best pictures, but I only had my phone on me!!!)

Memorial Day Weekend!

2009-06-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

This year, we decided to drive up to Orem for Memorial Day Weekend. We left Friday morning, after Braxton's softball game against the teachers at school. Jeff was so mad that he was missing a whole day of fishing on Friday, but oh well, we have priorities, right?! We were at Brad and Mel's from Friday until Monday. We had a pretty relaxing but fun weekend. Joyce and Tony also came down and brought Neuman. ( a little bonus for my boys) The kids had so much fun just playing in their backyard. On Sunday, Jeff and I took the kids for a drive up Provo Canyon, and to a park up there. It ws so nice. The weather was great. On Monday, while Jeff and Brad took Drazen and Braxton golfing, Katie, Carlee and I went to IKEA, because a trip to Utah (or anywehere with an IKEA for that matter) wouldn't be complete without a little IKEA shopping.
Thanks Brad and Mel for hosting us. We had a lot of fun.

Sea Camp - Part 2!

2009-05-29T07:49:00.001-07:00

Sea Camp!!

2009-05-29T07:34:00.000-07:00

Each year 5th grade GATE students get to go on a trip to SeaCamp. This year was Braxton's turn to go. He has been waiting to go since 3rd grade, but about two weeks before the trip, he was sick to his stomach every night, and kept saying he really didn't want to go. I told him that he didn't have a choice, and that he would have a lot of fun. They left on Sunday, May 10th at noon, and returned on Tuesday, May 12th at 10:00pm. Needless to say, he thought the trip was AWESOME, and maybe too short. He had a great time. SeaCamp is in San Diego, and it's three days of hands on training with sea animals. They went on a boat ride, to fish, and to look at sea lions. Snorkeling, got to hold some of the underwater life, went boogie boarding, disected a squid and a fish, etc. The whole trip is about marine biology, which is something that has interested Braxton since we went to Sea World a few years ago. It was a great experience and I am so glad Braxton was able to go.

Katie lost her 1st and 2nd tooth!

2009-05-27T15:31:00.000-07:00

Katie lost her first tooth two weeks ago on Friday. The tooth has been loose forever, and Friday night she decided to pull it out - HERSELF!!!! She was so excited that two nights later, she pulled out her other tooth that was also loose.
Personally, I think she liked what she found under her pillow from the tooth fairy - $5 (each time), a letter from the tooth fairy and some fairy dust.

Help for a friend

2009-05-27T15:29:00.000-07:00

My friend asked me if I would help her out.She is on the cricut message board with this lady, and would like to help her win the contest.
There is a lady from the Cricut message board
who is trying to win a contest.
The contest ends Friday, I'm trying to help her get votes.
The link is below and you can vote once a day from
every computer you have access to.
http://theoriginalscrapbox.com/craftbox_giveaway/showContestant.php?id=275
You can find her here:
http://www.cricut.com/messageboard/tm.aspx?m=4648354
If you have a blog and are willing to post
Just ONE time or allow her to comment
please go to the above link and let her ASAP!
If you'd rather send a link to me where you posted
please email me at stampsalive@cox.net

Thanks,

Spring 2009

2009-05-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

OK, so I keep hearing that I am not updating my blog often enough. So, here are a few reasons, why I haven't updated lately.

Drazen's 8th Grade Awards and 8th Grade Dance

On Wednesday ( 5/6/09) Drazen had his Awards Ceremony. He received a Presidential Award for keeping a 3.5 GPA for all three years of middle school. We are so proud of him for keeping up his grades and for doing so good in school. Drazen is such a smart young man. He was pretty proud of Obama's signature on his award.

Doesn't he look so handsome!!!!!

On Friday, May 8th, Drazen had his 8th grade dance!!!! Eight grade??!!! Hello, my son will be in high school in the fall. What?! I can't believe it. So, the eight grade dance... oh the preparation for it. It was a formal dance. Then a couple of days before, he told me that him and a few friends are renting a limo. A limo to an eight grade dance???? I asked him what he would do in high school - get a jet??? Appearently, I am pretty old, because it's the new thing. Needless to say, they didn't rent a limo, but got a ride from a really COOL and HIP mom. And they survived. But, I do have to say, when I got to school at 10pm to pick them up, there were limos, and stretch hummers lined up waiting. Really??!!!! Picking him up from the dance gave me a little dose of reality, my little boy is not little anymore, and he REALLY is going to high school in the FALL!!! I was really sad for a moment and even got teary eyed, when I saw all the kids exiting the school, in their formal attire. That was kind of closure for them, middle school is over.
I love that boy so much, and I am so proud of all of his accomplishements, this far. He really is growing into such a wonderful young man.

Don't they look so cute????!!!!

Baseball
Drazen and Braxton are both playing baseball this season. Drazen is now in the juniors and plays on the regular size field, and Braxton is in AAA. It has been so fun going to their games. I think Jeff and I sure became "baseball mom" and "baseball dad". Jeff is actually coaching Braxton's team and he loves it.

Spring Break

For Spring Break this year, Kristen and I decided to drive to Idaho. We had a lot of fun. The weather was great, the kiddies had a great time playing outside, and we enjoyed our little break. On the way home we stopped at Brad and Mel's to see them, and of course had a great time. Oh yeah, Kristen and I sure cannot live Idaho without bringing home "a pet". This time we brought home baby chicks. 5 in all if I may be exact. Kristen got 2 for her kids, and I got 3. We almost got some little ducklings, but common sense finally kicked in, and we thought chicks were enough.

Carlee's Activity Days - Recognition Night
Carlee had her 1st Recognition Night in Activity Days. It was really neat. All the girls received a star award and later made bracelets with them.

Katie's 1st Field Trip
Katie's kindergarten class, went on their 1st Field Trip, to Lied Discovery Museum. Of course, I went as a parent chaperone. It was really cute, seeing all the kindergarteners on the BIG yellow bus (most of them went on for a first time). The field trip was a lot of fun. The kids had a great time, and I must say they were really good.

So, in between all of this, I am still bookkeeping, swapping kiddies with Jen, and helping out at the school, and serving as a PTA Co-President. And PTA has been keeping us all busy. But, with a great Board we accomplish everything.
Hope you all enjoy reading what our family has been up to the last couple of months. It has been a "little" busy. But it's good busy. We love every minute of it!!!!

Some Snow Fun!

2009-04-17T08:55:00.000-07:00

About a month ago we took our kids to Mount Charleston to play in the snow for a couple of hours. We all had a great time.

Katie is 6 ALREADY!

2009-03-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

Katie had her 6th birthday on February 28th, and we celebrated with a party for all of her friends and cousins. She had a great time. It was a "Music Party". Katie loves to sing and dance so it was very appropriate. They played musical chairs, hot potato, and Barbies. I think they all had a blast. For "goodies", before the party every girls had to tell me what their favorite song was, so I made CDs for all the girls to take home. They also received a HSM pencil pouch with a pencil, stickers, eraser and sharpener.
Katie had a great time at her party. She played with all of her presents for the rest of the day. I even sat to play Barbie's with her and Carlee. We had a GOOD time.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Katie, Happy Birthday sweetie!!! We love you so much. I can't believe you are already 6. Pretty soon you willl be in 1st grade. You are growing up to be such a good, fun,funny, sweet girl. Thank you for keeping us on our toes. We love you very much, and hope you had a wonderful birthday!!!!

Drazen has lots of School Spirit!!!!

2009-02-06T07:23:00.001-08:00

Today is Spirit Day at Drazen's school!!!

Before and After

2009-02-04T16:46:00.000-08:00

My sweet dear child, Braxton - FINALLY got a haircut!!!! YES!!!! I am a little excited. He looks SOOOOOOOOOO much better with short hair, than long.
He was pretty upset at first,even texting his brother and friends and telling them that his "life is officially ruined (WHAT LIFE???) but then realized that it's much easier to take care of short hair, and now he ACTUALLY likes it!!! Amazing!!!

Other than that, we really haven't done much lately. My brother cam over the other day on his motorcycle, and Katie had a couple of friends over and Cooper. The kids were so excited and all asked for rides. He gave Katie the first ride and after that Sydney and Emily weren't interested anymore. Cooper on the other hand couldn't hardly wait for his turn.

And on a sad note, our team lost to San Diego State last night. Yes, they lost!!! WHAT A BUMMER!!!! We are still mourning that loss. But we know they will come back stronger than ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO REBELS!!!!!

Red Rock

2009-01-24T09:27:00.000-08:00

On Monday, Jen and I decided to do something fun with the kiddies. We packed a lunch, and went to Red Rock. The weather was great, and we had a great time. We let the kids go climbing, and then took them on a hike thru Children's Discovery Trail. By the end of the day, they were all tired. Mission accomplished! It's so nice that Red Rock is so close to our house. I love that Red Rock is so close to our house now. It's great!!!!

UNLV 76 - BYU 70

2009-01-22T09:39:00.000-08:00

What a sweet victory that was Wednesday night!!!!

UPDATE!!!!

2009-01-22T08:52:00.001-08:00

I have not posted in a while. A long while. So, here is a recap of our holiday season!!!!
WARNING: PICTURE OVERLOAD!!!!!

Ice Skating

2009-01-22T08:31:00.000-08:00

Last week we took our kids ice skating. I love ice skating. I have been doing it since I was little, and my kids love it as well. We took them in Idaho a few times. They are all really good too. And Jeff impressed me. He was pretty good. Katie asked if we can start going every Wednesday night.
Greg and Sara also joined us.

Goodbye 2008, HELLO 2009

2009-01-22T08:21:00.000-08:00

We rang in the New Year, with family and friends this year. It was a lot of fun. We ate yummy foods, played games, and just hung out. What could be better???
I can't believe it's already 2009, and middle of January. Where are these days going??
I hate making resolutions, because I never stick to them, but I did tell myself that this year I am going to focus more on things that are important in life, and all the other stuff, well if I have time for it. We are enjoying spending time with our kids. They are in different activities. And I want to focus more on them. Katie is in kindergarten, and I want to help out in her classroom, and enjoy that time with her. Before I know it, she will be in middle school and then high school. And same with my other kids. They are all now involved in sports of some kind. The boys are in baseball, and Jeff has been taking them golfing quite a bit, Carlee is in gymnastics, and Katie (bird) is in ballet. And I want to enjoy those activities with them as well.

Pre Christmas Festivites-Part 2

2009-01-22T08:13:00.001-08:00

We also made Gingerbread Houses with friends and family, and these really cute scarves. The girls had a BLAST making these. They are so cute.

Pre Christmas Festivities-Part1

2009-01-22T08:06:00.000-08:00

During the month of December we took our kids to a Holiday Festival in Summerlin. They went on a train ride, rode "reindeer", made a few craft projects, had yummy cookies, visited Santa, took pictures with a few characters. IT was fun! Thanks for the info Patti.

Christmas

2009-01-21T17:19:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas season this year. It was however a little different this year. Jeff's parents couldn't come down from Rexburg. We missed them a LOT!!! And Brad and Mel moved to Provo, and she was days away from having her baby, so they couldn't travel either. We missed you guys!!!!
We had Christmas Eve dinner at our house. My mom and brother and his girlfriend came, the Browns, McMillans, Greg, and Steph all came also. It was a lot of fun. We ate REALLY YUMMY food. (sorry Amy, maybe we'll go back to the traditional pizza next year-we'll see) We then had a Christmas lesson, and then it was off to Rockband for the rest of the night.
This year, Jeff and I also carried over his family's tradition, of doing brother/sister gifts. We had our kids draw names, and took them shopping. They had a lot of fun doing that. They thought that was so cool!!! I was glad we did it, and am excited to continue that.
Christmas morning....
Jeff was up around 6:30-7 and woke me up around 7:30. We then HAD to go and WAKE OUR KIDS UP at 8:00am!!!! Appearently, our kids need a lot of sleep, even on Christmas morning. Santa was really good to them this year. Drazen and Braxton got a ping pong table. Braxton also got a skateboard, and Drazen got a lot of clothes. (what else does a 13 year old ask for). Carlee got a membership at Browns Gymnastics (that is all she wanted), some clothes, boots, games for her DS, movie, etc. Katie's Christmas letter to Santa, consisted of a Nintendo DS, "skittles" lipgloss, a baby, "Gabriella" Barbie, and a game for her DS. That was the easiest letter I ever saw. I couldn't believe it. So that is what she got. She also got a movie, A LOT of lip stuff and pretend make up, and a tea set.............

Katie's Dance Recital

2009-01-21T14:55:00.000-08:00

Our holiday season began with Katie (bird)'s Winter Dance Recital, on December 19th. IT was AWESOME!!! Ms. "K", sure knows how to put on a recital. Once again, it was at Cheyenne campus of CSN, at Nicholas Horn Theater (I think that's the name). Katie's class danced to "I WANT A HIPPOPOTAMUS FOR CHRISTMAS". They were so cute. The girls got to wear pj's (great idea, we can use those again)!!!!

A few more pictures of our Winter Wonderland!!!

2008-12-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

WINTER WONDERLAND!!!!

2008-12-18T06:34:00.000-08:00

How about that??? Yesterday was a day of surprises!!!! It snowed ALL day here in Vegas!!!! Yes in LAS VEGAS!!!! When it first started sticking to the ground, I thought I better capture this on my camera before it melts, but IT NEVER MELTED!!!!! YAY!!!! The kids immediatley went outside, and played for hours. By late afternoon, we had a good 4-6 inches on the ground. The kids made a snowman, went sledding down our driveway, Drazen thought it would be cool to attach his snowboard to a bike and have someone pull him, all the kids and adults on my street had a snowball fight and just enjoyed our WINTER WONDERLAND in LAS VEGAS!!!!! How crazy is that?! Every time I looked out of my window, and saw that everything was covered with a blanket of snow, I thought I needed to get pinched to wake up from a dream.
An hour ago, the news announced that today is -- wait get this - "AN OFFICIAL SNOW DAY FOR ALL KIDS THAT ATTEND SCHOOLS IN LAS VEGAS!!!! Never in a million years did I think I would EVER hear those words while living in LAS VEGAS!!!!Crazy??? Yeah, a little!!!!!!!!!! Too bad this didn't happen next Wednesday and Thursday!!!
For all of our family that doesn't live in LV, see we can have a white winter in Vegas!!! Haha

December - Already???!!!

2008-12-14T13:22:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that we are already in the middle of December. Where does the time go??? I really wanted to just enjoy the month of December, but it seems like we have been busy than ever.
Carlee and Braxton ran in the LV Kids Marathon last Saturday. They did great. They have been running with a group of kids from church for the past 11 weeks, two days a week to get ready, and then the last stretch they ran at the marathon. Thanks Suzanne and Cheryl for putting the whole thing together. The kids really enjoyed themselves. That same day, Braxton had his Robotics club competition at Cimarron Memorial H.S. in the morning and we had to rush to the marathon at Mandalay Bay. Drazen had his last baseball game in Boulder City that morning also. It was one of those days. But it's all over, and the kids loved all of their activities and had a good time!!! I guess that is all that matters.
We put up our Christmas tree, and decorated the inside of the house. (Jeff mentioned decorating outside, but we'll see) We also took the kids to a little Christmas activity in Summerlin last week. That was a lot of fun. They had pony (reindeer) rides, Santa, train rides, characters walking around, caroling, indoor activities. It was a lot of fun!!!
We are excited for Christmas though.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-14T12:50:00.000-08:00

This post is a little late!! But I guess, better late than never!!!
This year we spent Thanksgiving in Orem with all of Jeff's family. We had a great time. We cooked,the big boys played basketball, played games, ate, shopped,attempted to take family photos, hung out and just relaxed!!! What more could you ask for?! The kids loved spending time with all of their cousins!!! The weather was GREAT (I wanted snow) so the kids were outside most of the time.
Thanks Brad and Mel for hosting all of us (and thanks Marshall for letting Jen's and our family stay in your "suite")!!! It was fun!!!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Happy 9th Birthday Carlee - Bella!!!

2008-11-23T17:45:00.000-08:00

Our sweet girl Carlee, has turned 9 years old on November 8th. We decided to have her birthday party last weekend. She had a "red Carpet Event". It was a fashion Show party. She invited 14 friends. After the girls arrived, Jen, Kristen A. and Kristin S. and I put make up on all the girls, and did their hair to get them ready to walk the "RUNWAY"!!!!! ( Thanks for all your HELP ladies) Every girl brought an extra outfit to model. They all changed into their outfits, and one by one walked the "RUNWAY". They had so much fun!!!!! It was probably one of the best birthday parties, if I may say so myself!!! hahaha Below are some pictures of the party.
Carlee, we hope you had a wonderful birthday. We can't believe that you are already nine years old. You are growing up to be such a wonderful and amazing young girl. You are so fun, amd such a joy to be around. We love you so so so much, and are so happy that Heavenly Father has blessed us with you in our lives!!!! We love you very much !!!!! Mom and Dad

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

R-E-B-E-L Fever is BACK!!!!!!

2008-11-18T23:34:00.001-08:00

NEED I SAY MORE??!!!!!.............

Last week was our Runnin' Rebels' first game!!! We are so excited that basketball season is finally here!!!! Jeff and Greg, of course have their seats secured for the season!!! Our kids have gotten in the Rebel spirit also. The girls even have their own Rebel shirts and Pom Poms!!! They love to show us cheers after the games!!!
GO REBELS!!!!! HAVE A GREAT SEASON!!!!!!

Baskin Robbins Night

2008-11-18T21:56:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday was Baskin Robbins night for our school. We had teachers/PTA moms helping scoop ice cream. The turn out was great. We couldn't be happier. The money that was raised went on to fund 3rd grade level. It was a lot of fun. Jen and I helped, and we had a great time. Scooping ice cream is much harder than it looks. BELIEVE ME!!!!!

Bedroom Makeover

2008-11-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

Since we moved into our house (3 years ago) I wanted to paint my bedroom, but I could never find a color that I absolutely loved. I even purchased curtains from Pier 1 that I absolutely loved (3 yrs ago)!!! So, in September while Amy was here, she helped me pick out the colors. And I finally painted my bedroom. WAHOO!!! I am so excited. I have officially decided that I HATE painting!! I figured it would only take one day, but, by the time it was all said and done, it took two days. I thought I would never finish!!! I LOVE our new bedroom though!!! And surprising enough, Jeff likes it too!!!
BEFORE

AFTER

Happy Halloween!!!!

2008-11-03T08:12:00.001-08:00

Halloween this year sure came and went!!!! I honestly don't know where the time goes!!! It's crazy!!! But, we had a great Halloween!!! The festivities started on Thursday at school with parties for Katie, Carlee and Braxton. LEt's just say.. A LOT OF SUGAR!!!!! The kids had fun though! Friday night, we got together with Browns, Sullivans, Stuhmers and Martins joined us at the end. ( I just got a grammar lesson from my 10 year old, as he is watching me post this)We had dinner, and then went trick or treating. It was a gorgeous night. I can't believe that it was so warm. Hopefully, the cooler weather will arrive soon in Las Vegas.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Where Angels Gather - Dinner Gala!!!

2008-11-02T10:29:00.001-08:00

On Thursday, October 30th, Jeff and I were invited to a dinner/fundraiser/auction for a neurological foundation. It was a lot of fun, once we got there. The dress was evening attire, and if you know Jeff and I, we are very casual!!! We had to go shopping for a suit for him and a dress for me. We had a hard time picking out the suit, but I think we did okay!!! We went with our good friends, Kyle and Gerilyn. It was fun to dress up and go out!!!1

Harvest Hoedown

2008-11-02T10:14:00.000-08:00

After picking up the last minute things, like 30 dozen cupcakes!!!!!

On October 17th, PTA held it's 2nd annual Harvest Hoedown at our kids' school. It was a lot of work to put it on, but it was a LOT of fun!!!! Everyone had a great time!!! Here are a couple of pictures of that. We made a haunted house in one of the empty portables, it was amazing. I think we were pretty proud of ourselves!!!!

2008-10-08T07:34:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged with the answer 5 with 5 game! I have to answer these 5 questions, and then tag 5 other people!!!! Thanks to my cousin Nikki!!!

10 years ago...
I was already married for 3 years
I had 2 kids
I sold Pampered Chef
I was an aunt to 1 nephew and twin nieces
Jeff and I were renting a house, but Gramps' was building us a house

5 things on today's list....
Get kiddies ready for school
DO PTA stuff at the school in the morning
Go do bookkeeping
Make dinner
Drive boys to mutual (Drazen) and then to baseball

5 snacks I love....
chips and salsa
Coke from Sonic
Kit Kat
chocolate chip cookies with milk (Ahoy)
hummus with pita bread

5 things I would do if I was a millionaire....
Build a nice big house in the cul-de-sac!!!!!
Share with family (so they can build with us)
Take my family on a trip to visit Europe and Yugoslavia (for them to see where I grew up)
Put money away for kids' education
Buy Jeff a fishing hole ( if possible) with a golf course nearby

5 places I've lived....
Novi Sad, Yugoslavia
Arden St. - LV
Baltimore St - LV
Toast Ave - LV That's it I am pretty boring

5 jobs I've had....
Taco Bell (Sahara and Eastern in high school)
Runner for CCSD
Teller at First Interstate Bank (Wells Fargo now) and then at PriMerit
Mortgage Loan Processor
Babysitting

Now I tag....
Michelle K.
Gerilyn
Toni
Amber
Rachel

HAve fun girls!!!

Random

2008-10-05T16:06:00.001-07:00

I haven't blogged in a while, so here it is......
I guess it's been pretty busy around here. Baseball started for both boys, and as everyone who has kids in sports knows, that takes up a half of the week. Carlee is running with a few friends (and training, Iguess) for LV Kids Marathon in December. That is on Mondays and Thursdays after school. Braxton has Robotics Club after school on Wednesdays and Thursdays. And Katie has dance on Fridays at 4:30pm. Then there is PTA. That takes up A LOT of time. We are putting on a Harvest Hoedown on Oct. 17th from 4:30pm to 8:00pm, so that has taken a lot of my time also.(Anyone who reads this blog is invited to our school's Harvest Hoedown, it's going to be a lot of fun!!!!!!!) Not to mention the fundraiser that is going on right now. Jeff is staying really busy at work. I guess once school started so did our crazy busy life. But I am not complaining. Our kids are involved in activities that they enjoy, and I guess it's better than sitting in front of the T.V. (although sometimes I dream of a day that I can just sit and watch a movie)
So, for those of you who have been trying to get a hold of us, sorry we haven't called back. It's just been a little busy, to say the least!!! (by the way, I don't have any pictures to post)

Does anyone have dance fever????

2008-09-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

Need I say more????????????? (you will have to pause the music to hear her dad in the background)

Sleepy Little Girl!!!!

2008-09-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

So, this afternoon as I was checking my email, Katie was by me talking to me. I wasn't really paying attention to her, but a few minutes later, I looked over to see what she was doing, and this is how I found her!!!!

Why do I have a pack-n-play out when Katie is already 5??!! No, I don't usually keep it out. That is not where she sleeps!!!!! My sister-in-law, Melissa is here with my cute little niece London. That is why it's out!!!

I guess, Katie was done waiting for me to talk to her, so she decided to take a little snooze. Kindergarten must be wearing her out!!! And of course, she has her silky - we don't go anywhere without those!!!!!!!!!!!!

AND THE NAME IS.............

2008-09-12T08:26:00.000-07:00

Baby Brown now has a name!!! YEAH!!!!!!!

And his name is................................. Camper Grae Brown!!!!!!

BABY BROWN IS HERE!!!!!

2008-09-10T21:51:00.000-07:00

Amy and I at the hospital with all of our party 'favors'. When we have our babies, we like to have a party in the room.
BABY BROWN

8lbs 10 oz and 21in long

Isn't he CUTE!!!!! I just want to eat him.

Proud mom and dad with their little bundle of joy!!!!!!

He has finally arrived!!! My sister-in-law Jen had her baby boy yesterday (Sept 10th). He is ADORABLE!!!!!!! He weighed 8lbs 10oz and is 21in long. Jen and "Baby Brown" are both doing good!!!!!!!!!!

And no name yet. We are anxiously waiting to find out what they will name him.

TEENAGERS!!!!!!!

2008-09-09T10:11:00.001-07:00

Sunday was Drazen's birthday!!! Not just any birthday, it was his 13th birthday!!!!! Needless to say, he is very excited to finally be a 'teenager'!!! Jeff and I on the other hand, can't believe that we officially have a teenager!!!! I feel old just by saying the word teeanger.
But, Drazen had a good birthday. He got everything that he asked for, and yesterday he even came home from school with a present from his "friend" (who is a girl) Taylor. She got him a Quicksilver t-shirt that is proudly wearing today. I think my little boy is growing up.
He is growing into a wonderful young man. He is a great example to everyone around him, and always wants to do what is right. I couldn't be more proud of him!!!!

Random pictures

2008-09-09T10:02:00.001-07:00

She's a Daddy's Girl!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yesterday after it rained we saw a rainbow. I had to take an advantage of it. I think it looks pretty cool.
Jen's due date was yesterday, and we were all a little anxious for the baby to come, so we went shopping with the kiddies. No baby, yet!!! Hopefully, "Baby Brown" will decide to come out one of these days?!

BACK TO SCHOOL!!!!

2008-08-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

Monday was the first day of school. I am not sure if I want to smile or cry!! Drazen is now in 8th grade!! Yes, that is 8th grade!!! That makes me feel SOO old!! Braxton is in 5th grade, Carlee is in 3rd, and our little Katie-bird started kindergarten this year. I can't believe it!!! Where does time go?! It's not fair, why can't they just stay small?!

Our first day went GREAT!!! Everyone was excited for school, and to see who was in their classes, and even Katie just waved good-bye to me. I was expecting tears, but she didn't have any. (I had a few)

Hope everyone's first day of school was GREAT!!!

Jeff's Bday

2008-08-18T01:39:00.001-07:00

This picture was taken first thing in the morning!!!

Okay so by now, you have all realized that I am behind on all my posts. SO why should this one be any different?!
Last Saturday (Aug 9th) was my hubby's 31st birthday. The kids got him MLB 2K8 for PlayStation 3. I am not sure, if the gift was more for Jeff or for them. So of course, Jeff and the boys played the game ALL day Saturday, that Jeff didn't even pay attention when I told him that we had dinner reservations at 6:15 at the Brio. He finally started getting ready at 6pm. (Now all of you that know our family real well, know that we are ALWAYS on time, everywhere we go-YEAH RIGHT) We made it to dinner (late of course), and afterwards we went to see Ka at the MGM.
We had a really fun time. Dinner was delicious!!! I recommend it to everyone, and the show was AMAZING!!!!
Hubby, I know this is a little late, but I just want you to know how much I love you. You are a wonderful husband and father. We appreciate everything you do for our family. You are the hardest worker I know. Thank you for being the best provider and for taking such good care of us. We love you!!!

Idaho

2008-08-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

While I was at Girls Camp, Jeff took the kiddies to Rexburg to visit his parents. I left Camp early and flew up on Friday, August 1st. I was really sad to leave camp, but I was so excited to go and see my family. We had a great time. We took the kids to Yellowstone, since we've never been there, and it's only a couple of hours away from his parents' house. The drive there was beautiful and we had a great time in Yellowstone. The picture of Carlee really captures what a great time she had in Yellowstone. She complained the WHOLE day. She didn't want to be in the car, she didn't want to be in Wyoming, she didn't want to be in Montana, (you get the picture) !!!!
On Saturday, there was an International Dance Festival at a park in Rexburg, that Amy really wanted all of us to go to. We stayed there for a couple of hours. There were folk dancers from about 10 different countries teaching a dance to whoever was brave enough to go up and learn. Okay, so Amy and I did go and dance once!!! And our kids all went up once and learned a routine from the US hip-hop team. They had a great time. They were all so into it, it was so funny to watch them. I actually forgot to take my camera to Idaho, so I borrowed my in-laws to capture some of those dance moves.

Idaho was fun, thanks Tony and Joyce for letting us come and visit you, and spend time with you, we can't wait to come back up!!!! Amy, it was fun hanging out for a couple of days, before you left on your trip.

Girls Camp

2008-08-16T18:58:00.001-07:00

July 28th-August 2nd, was our Stake's Girls Camp. As much as I dreaded going, I went and loved every minute of it. Despite a leader breaking her ankle, a funeral and LOTS of pranking, Girls Camp was GREAT!!!!!!! Kendra, our Stake Camp Director, is great. She did an outstanding job planning everything. I was her assistant, but at times I really felt like a slacker, and now I feel really bad for that. I can't believe how strong the spirit is at camp. All the girls have such a strong testimony of the gospel, it's great. I was taught a lot at camp this year.

We had a great time. We had some powerful evening firesides, moonlight hike, testimony meetings, workshops, zip line, archery, pranks, movie night, fashion show, etc. Michelle Kessler and Marci Morgan came and sang at one of our firesides, and it was wonderful. They have such great voices.

Michelle as you can see had a lot of fun on the zipline as well.

Katie's Dance Recital

2008-08-16T18:48:00.000-07:00

I know, it's been a while since I last posted. It has been a BUSY summer for us. I can't believe we are at the tail end of it. Where does the time go????

Between baby showers, dance recitals, Girls Camp and Idaho, I just haven't had time.
While Amy and the kids were down, we had a surprise baby shower for Jen. Those of you who know Jen, know that she hates surprises, so we had to plan a surprise shower. We had the hardest time making plans with her, because she wanted to know everything, and then tried telling us that she was going camping the weekend of her shower. Ty had to get involved and told her that he needed her to do a project for a client with him that weekend, of course that kept her in town!!! It was hard work!!!!!

Katie had a dance recital in July at CSN Cheyenne campus. The recital was wonderful, but all the rehersals and dress rehersals almost drove me over the edge. The week of the recital, which was a 2 day recital, we had rehersals on stage at CSN Monday afternoon, Wednesday from 3:30pm-4:00pm and again at 8pm, and Thursday from 5-8pm. Now, you all know where we live!!! I think I complained every single day!!!!!! But in the end, it was WELL worth it. They put on a great production!!!!!!

Water Park

2008-07-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

This is an invite to whoever wants to come. Amy, Jen and I and our kiddies are going to the water park on Monday, July 14th. It would be fun to get a big group out there, so if you can, come out and hang. We are going to the Henderson Multi Gen. Center water park at 11:00am (as soon as it opens to get the best spots)

See you there!!!!!!!!!!!!

My Hair

2008-07-09T21:58:00.000-07:00

Sorry for so many posts in one day, but I had to show this off. My friend who is a hair stylist was in a hair show, and she needed models to do a Keratin Complex Therapy Treatment. It's actually for curly or frizzy hair. It's a straightening process that only uses keratin ( a protein for hair) it does not use any chemicals. Your hair stays straight for about 3-5 months. It's AWESOME!!!! First, your hair is shampooed with a clarifying shampoo, then it's blow dried 100%!!!! Then they take 1" sections and put this treatment into the hair. After 20 minutes tops, your hair is blow dried 100% again!!!! Then they take 1/8" sections and flat iron them!!! The whole process takes about 2 hours. The hair can't be washed for 72 hours. Then you have to use keratin complex shampoo for the rest of the 3-5 month period. I was so excited to get it done!!! I love my hair. It stays straight all the time. At the cabin when it poured on me, my hair never frizzed up. The water actually stayed on top and did not soak up into my hair. Here is a picture. Now it only takes me 10-15 minutes to blow dry and flat iron my hair!!! I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

4th of July

2008-07-09T20:47:00.001-07:00

The Anderson Crew
Jeff and Ty
Kristen and Malcolm
Two of my favorite fly fishermen
Carlee and Katie - Carlee caught this horned toad and held it for a few hours. She even tok it on a 4 wheeler ride ( I had no clue that she was holding on to it)

Carlee, me aka Brett Michaels (thanks Kristen) and Katie
Drazen and Simon with the fish they caught

Well, we spent the 4th of July weekend in Strawberry Point at my aunt and uncles cabin. We left on Thursday afternoon, after planning to leave at about 8 or 9 am. On Friday morning, Jeff went golfing with Ty, Joey and uncle Lee in Cedar City. When he got back to the cabin we hung out with the kiddies for a while and then drove to Brian Head to meet up with Ty and Kristen and their kids for the fireworks show. The Fire Dept. put on a GREAT show. I have never seen Brian Head so PACKED!!!! There were cars and people everywhere. But, we had a great time. Jeff and Ty even had a great time.
On Saturday, Ty, Kris, and their kids came over to the cabin to hang out with us for a day. It was such a fun and relaxing day. We 4 wheeled, and took the kids fishing for a couple of hours. Scott also showed up in the morning for a couple of fly fishing sessions with Jeff. We had so much fun, with everyone.We now have proof that Kristen is indeed outdoorsy (is that a word)!!!! She rode a 4 wheeler and even fished!!!! On Sunday, I went for a ride with the kids right before it started raining and hailing. I also ran into the whole Horton, Bawden, Rhodes, and Brinkerhoff family. It was fun to see them up there.

We were getting ready to go home later in the afternoon, and then decided to stay for another day, against Braxton's wishes. He was really anxious to go back home on Sunday, he didn't want to miss any days of school so he can get perfect attendance. I guess I won't have to worry about him missing any school or ditching.

We came home on Monday, and I was wishing I was back at the cabin. The heat is TERRIBLE here. I guess we will just have to find a pool to go swimming at.

Update

2008-07-09T20:26:00.000-07:00

I guess it's about time for me to post again!! i am probably 2 months behind!! I've just been really busy.

Our summer is going GREAT!!!! Drazen got out of school on June 4th, and flew out to Idaho on June 9th to hang out with grandma and grandpa and the McMillans!!! He just got home last Tuesday, and he is ready to go back. He loves it up in Rexburg. He told us he wants to move there. (he wishes)

Braxton and Carlee are still in school. They are on track 5 so they get out next Thursday!!!! ABOUT TIME!!!! We can't really do much since they are still in school.

For Father's Day we Jeff's parents came into town for the weekend. It was an awesome weekend. We had so much fun hanging out with everyone.

The weekend of June 21st, Jeff, the kids and I went to Williams, AZ with some friends to their cabin. We had a great time. We just hung out, did a little of 4 wheeling, and of course FISHED!!! Can't go to a cabin by a lake or a river and not do any fishing!!! (lucky me)

Then on the 28th Brad and Mel left the Vegas family and moved up to Orem, UT. We already miss them and London so much.

So, needless to say it has been pretty crazy!!!!

1,2,3 ...SLIDE!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-27T14:55:00.000-07:00

Coaches: Jeff and Dan
Here is a picture of Braxton learning how to slide into home. Unfortunately, this was after one of our last games of the season. He was too afraid to slide during the season because he didn't want to "do it the wrong way"
It was a fun baseball season. Jeff and our next door neighbor Dan were the coaches. It was their first time coaching and they had a BLAST!!! I think braxton had a fun time too, but he said that Jeff always yelled at him. At one of the games, braxton was up to bat, and he had 3 balls and 1 strike on him. He dropped the bat and ran to first. Jeff asked him what he was doing, and he said "The ball almost hit me, so I ran to first." Needless to say he had to go back to bat and then walked. It was a fun season.

Drazen's Awards Ceremony

2008-05-27T14:38:00.000-07:00

On May 14th, Drazen received an award at school for winning the 7th grade Spelling Bee in January. He actually won the Spelling Bee at school, and moved on to the regional, he was one of the winners of that, and then moved on to the district spelling bee, which was televised on PBS channel on Superbowl Sunday. There, he was one of 7 remaining contestants, but unfortunately he missed a word, it was indefatigeable. Of course, I never heard of that word, and believe it or not neither did Jeff. Drazen missed it by one letter. It was a bummer, but at the same time really cool that he got as far as he did. What an experience for him.

Teddy Bear Picnic

2008-05-27T14:16:00.000-07:00

Katie's Preschool class

Katie and Emily
So, last week Katie-bird had a Teddy Bear Picnic at her preschool. We all met up at Mts. Edge Park. There were 3 other preschools involved. The kids had different stations to go to with their bears. They read books, had a treasure hunt, had a counting and sorting station and a parachute station. The picnic was SO much fun, except it was probably on of the windiest days in Las Vegas.

2008-05-05T23:04:00.000-07:00

Okay here it is, our family's blog. I am so new at this. I have no clue what I am doing - REALLY!!! But I thought it would be fun.Anyway, our family has been pretty busy the last few months. Drazen and Braxton are both playing baseball. Jeff is coaching Braxton's team which has been a lot of fun. They aren't always winning games, but they are all having fun. Drazen's team is doing pretty good. He hit his first homerun a couple of weeks ago. He was pretty EXCITED to say the least!!! I told Jeff at the beginning of the season we might as well move into the baseball park for the season. We are always there between the boys' practices and games. Carlee loves going to the games because she gets to work at the snack store.Katie-bird is in dance and she really likes it. She is surely keeping us on our toes. But she is sure fun.I am just busy with the kids. PTA has kept me pretty busy also. The school year is near the end and I am THRILLED!!!!!Katie and I went to baby Chloe's blessing yesterday. Aaron did a great job. And it was fun seeing all the Motts. We don't get to see any of them that often since we live so far away. Jackson is getting so big, and he is sooooooo cute!!!Jeff is getting ready for his fishing trip this weekend with Scott. The weather is getting warmer and the fish are calling!!!! Jen and I are probably going to have a slumber party with all the kids, so we are not scared at home by ourselves. ( I know we are pathetic)