Durrants Daily

The Agony of Defeat

2011-08-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

After being diagnosed with stage 4 Lymphoma we knew it was going to be an uphill battle for my mom. She spent the first 3 weeks in the hospital, where she had begun her first rounds of Chemo. Upon returning for labs a week or so later, we received the news that we had been hoping for her labs looked good the chemo looked like it was working. She had her second round of Chemo and then, it just seemed to go down hill from from there. She couldn't get keep her white blood cells up or her platelets to low. She would be come dehydrated from throwing up so much. She had uncontrollable bleeding from her bladder that was very painful for her. Excruciating pains radiating down her arm, kidney failure...the list went on and on. She just couldn't seem to get a break. I reached a point that I became angry. Wondering WHY???? Why did she have to suffer so much. I knew she had cancer. I got that! But come on! Why did she have to go through so much "extra stuff". Watching her have to suffer was sometimes simply unbearable.
As a result of all the complications and such, my poor mom RARELY got the spend a full week at home. She was having to be sent to the Emergency Room because of infection or admitted back into the Huntsman Cancer institute to receive more platelets. Whenever I could, I would make the drive up to the hospital, to be there with her and to comfort my dad. It became almost a daily ritual driving up there and I was pretty sure my car could get there by itself, since I was making the drive so often. I can remember entering the Hospital each time, taking a deep breath and saying "here we go again." Often times I would get that feeling of not wanting to drive up there AGAIN! and that I needed a little break today from the hospital. But then I would quickly think of my mom and of my dad who was spending many sleepless nights and days taking care of my mom. And how they would really like to have a break too, but didn't quite have that option and I would find myself trekking my butt back up there. I always thought in the back of my mind "won't it be so nice when my mom is cured and we don't have to come back here?"
That is what made leaving for the last time, so difficult to take. That last ride down the elevator. As I was pulling out of the parking garage for the very last time, I felt so let down and defeated. I was pulling out, walking away WITHOUT my mom. They, THE world renowned Huntsman Cancer Institute the one in the forefront of cancer research could not fix my mom. I was heartbroken. I was empty. We had lost.

My Mother's Hands

2011-08-23T21:17:00.000-07:00

Night time is the hardest part of the day for me. Every night as I lay in bed, thoughts of my mother come flowing back. My mind just doesn't seem to shut off as dreaming of her has seem to become a nightly ritual for me. My nights are spent reliving the time spent in the hospital with her, her last birthday, her last days here on earth. My mind just doesn't seem to turn off. And missing her, is continually getting worse. Since it seems to be getting more difficult to fall asleep I thought that I might as well write down my thoughts and memories of her. So my next group of postings are going to be random and in no special order. And most likely not well written or thought out for that matter. They are just going to be what I am remembering tonight.
Tonight I can't stop thinking of my mother's hands. Whenever it was time to say our goodbye's after visiting my mom. She would reach out to grab our hands and say say "I love you". I have always known that my mother had beautiful, no I mean gorgeous hands. Long slender fingers and always perfectly manicured nails. She seriously should have been a hand model. I on the other hand have short stubby fingers. Can'y grow nails to save my life. And those that I do grow, I just end up chewing off. But each time I got ready to leave and I'd squeeze her hands. I would linger just a little longer, and rub them so gently. I have never felt hands so soft as my mom's and I would often comment to her how soft her hand were. Deep down inside I stroked her hands not ever wanting to forget her softness, but also not wanting to loose the love that flowed through her body to mine, as our hands were intertwined.
My mom was always feeling pretty crappy, and while at the hospital, a lot of time, she didn't feel like a lot of visitors. She was especailly concerned about her grankids and didn't want to scare them, by seeing her so sick and hooked up to so many different lines of medicine. I as a mom didn't want to make my kinds worry about their grandma being sick. We really never talked about her dieing, but just mainly talked as if she was very, very sick and that cancer kills "some people". We had taken the kids to Lagoon one day, and I told Brian that I thought that on our way home, we needed to stop by the hospital and let my kids see my mom. I didn't want them to worry about her, but I wanted them to see how sick she was "just in case" something was to happen and she passed away, with them only thinking that she just had a little illness like the flu or something. I wanted them to see that she was "really" sick. Just "in case" I didn't want them to be totally shocked. Our visit was very brief, and we only stated a few minutes, as she would tire easily and start coughing uncontrolably if she talked too much. But again as we were getting ready to leave, my mom reached out to grab my hands, and I said "Mom I just can't believe how soft your hands are. Here guys, I want you to come feel how soft grandma's hands are." Then each one of my kids, one by one, went and grabbed my mothers hand as she gently caressed their hand in hers, and each one told her that they loved her. At the time my kids thought I was pretty silly. Little did they know, that would be the last time they would ever feel my mother's soft loving hands. The last time they would tell her that they loved her. And the last time they would hear that she loved them too, as my mother would pass away the following week. Oh how I hope to never forget those hands. Their beauty, their softness and especially the love that flowed through them. The love that can only come from a mother's touch.

Christmas Cards

2009-12-16T18:14:00.000-08:00

Just got our Christmas Card order back and I just love how they turned out. The Photo shoot was so much fun and I got a lot of darling pictures... I will post some of them soon.

Front

Inside

Back

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas!

Ashlynn's Birthday Photo shoot

2009-11-06T07:28:00.000-08:00

Took Ashlynn out for a little Birthday photo Shoot. We had a blast! Check out all the fun pictures on my Photography blog www.scrapsoflifephotography.blogspot.com

Brinley's Baptism

2009-10-21T16:46:00.001-07:00

Am I Really That Bad?

2009-08-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

Karson on the first day of school is checking out the girls gathering in the front yard... getting ready to head to the bus stop.

grabbing his shoes so he can go too.

Realizing that he has to stay home with mom. Breaks my heart.

New Blog!

2009-08-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

Check out my new photog blog. scrapsoflifephotography.blogspot.com. I would love to hear some feed back.

First Photo Shoot

2009-07-31T12:59:00.000-07:00

When Dave and Vanessa were in town visiting, they asked if I would take some family pictures of them. OF COURSE I said YES! Although this was my first time photographing someone else besides my own family. But what a Beautiful little family they are. I couldn't go wrong on the photos. I got so many good ones of them. They are just so photogenic! It is going to be hard to narrow them down.

So Gabriel is known for being a drooler...I had to get one of that.

Everyone need to have a footsie photo!

Awwwe!

I just loves these next to photo's. They just seem to capture that love that Dave and Vanessa have for their little one. While taking some photos aon the railroad tracks, Gabriel had tipped over backwards and hit his head. Oh we all felt so bad. Here is Dave and Vanessa trying to comfort him.

How precious is that?

Here's a photo that I was just having some fun with. Trying out some fun photo actions.

So I need some more practing...let me know if your interested.

Going Vintage

2009-07-31T11:11:00.000-07:00

So I've been taking some online classes on photo editing. Oh it is going to be SO MUCH FUN! Last night I couldn't sleep. I just couldn't wait to go down on the computer to play. So here is a vintage looking one of Brinley. A little over the top.... but it is fun to play around.

The Bestest in the Westest

2009-07-07T15:33:00.000-07:00

Brian and I often comment on how lucky we are to live in the neighborhood that we do. We truly have the BESTEST NEIGHBORHOOD and we are spoiled by all our great neighbors. Each year during the summer we try to get together and have a little neighborhood party and BBQ. Since we have 50+ kids just in our cul-da-sac and down our little street, we decided that it would be fun to rent a BIG blow up slide for the day.
The kids had a blast. Even though it was a little cloudy and drizzly outside...we put the garden hose on it and turned it into a water slide. It was a huge hit.

Even the little babies in the neighborhood would have a blast going down. Karson on the other hand was NOT thrilled at all with it. After much coaxing, I talked him into going down with me on my lap. So we climbed up...slid down and WHACK!!! he hit his head on my knee and that was the end of sliding for him.

Krew & Cami

Kyle

Brinley

It's always fun to just hang with great friends!

We always have yummy food at are BBQ

Karson and his ammo!

And for some reason we always end up with a water fight.

Ashlynn's friend Hailey looks like she is up to no good.

Peyton D. getting her daddy wet. And Megan M. be chased by her dad after getting him soaked. Run Megan run.

Since we usually do it around the July 4th weekend we end the night with fireworks in the culd-da-sac. Here is Karson with his friends Makenna (who insisted on sitting by him the whole night and was not happy if someone got between them. You could also see her leading Karson around while holding his hand through out the night...to cute! Karson is already whipped), Her little brother Macoy, and Karsons other little girlfriend Sydnee.

Brinley and her friends Kennadi, Madeline, and Hailey...enjoying the fireworks.

Ashlynn and her two friends Hailey and Megyn.

I am so glad we live in this neighborhood where our kids have made such good friends. We ARE BLESSED!

We DID Disney!

2009-06-11T11:55:00.001-07:00

This post is way past due. But I wanted to share our fun trip, that we took back in April. For Spring Break we headed to Disneyland and had a Blast! We have been there before (okay maybe three or four times,) but seriously, other than the FIRST time , this was the funnest time we had. I think that it has to do a lot with my kids are growing up and that we didn't have any little babies.

The anticipation of walking down Main Street. This is were the Excitement really begins!

I'm not sure why, but the Astro Orbiter is ALWAYS the first ride we hit. Maybe since it is the first ride we run into?

My kids were really quite well behaved (for the most part) which made the trip enjoyable.

This is what kept Karson manageable through the whole week at Disneyland. Brian bought him this set of cars. It was the BEST purchase EVER. He carried those cars for 4 days straight. They kept Karson entertained the WHOLE time we were stuck standing in long lines.

He would line his cars up..."drive" them along the railings and so forth. That was the best idea.

Okay I just have to brag about my kids. They aren't wimps. That makes it fun, because they will try out ANY ride as long as they met the height requirement. I was so proud of Brinley. She went on Indian Jones ride...although she kept her head down the whole time and says she will NEVER go on that again. We also talked Brinley into going on the Tower of Terror. That on the other hand she said she will never forgive us. She came off the ride in tears. It scared her to death. She said she doesn't like it when people DON'T TELL HER THE TRUTH about how scary a ride is. She won't be going on that again either. But I am so happy at least she gave it a try.

Ashlynn loves the California Screamer. You know the Roller Coaster that goes upside down? I on the other hand, ride it ONCE each time we go. But the WHOLE ENTIRE time I'm asking myself "Now remind me how this is fun? And Why I am on this?"

We had a lot of first this trip. First time to the Tikki room. I think that will be are only trip to the Tikki Room LOL!

The Nemo Ride. The kids liked although it is a little hard to get the little ones down inside the submarine.

Sights from the Nemo Ride.

Disneyland Parades are the BEST! Here's the Family waiting for the Main street Parade to begin

So Karson is a Rookie when it comes to Parade Watching. He didn't get the memo that he was NOT PART OF THE PARADE and the he NEEDED TO STAY ON THE SIDEWALK.

When Woody came down the stairs, Karson ran out to greet him...Biffed on the road and all the friendly Disney workers came to pick him up and REMIND HIM TO STAY ON THE SIDEWALK!

Then comes Pooh and Karson could not resist this loveable bear. Karson ran out and this time ...mission accomplished! He gave Pooh Bear a great big hug.

Meanwhile I'm DODGING GIANT BICYCLES trying to save my son from being ran over.

They Must have realized how much Karon wanted to be part of the parade. So they caved, and invited Karson and Brinley to join them.

Disney California also has some great parades. The girls really enjoyed singing and dancing along with High School Musical!

The kiddos getting a high five from one other the performers.

The Pixar Parade was Amazing!

Of course Karson though that Lightning McQueen was the Star of the Parade.

Tow Mater was bringing up the end.

I love to sit back and just watch my cute family. I am SO BLESSED!

Okay so my son likes to Entertain!

While waiting for the parade Karson would head out to the middle of the parade route to show off and dance. He can be quite the Character. I have pictures of him doing the exact same thing the last time we were at Disneyland. He was only 2 yrs then.

I LOVE the family bonding time you get on vacation. Kyle on the other hand, I think can go without so much bonding.

The highlight of Karson's trip.

Mom caved and the girls got their face painted.

Brinley REALLY enjoyed the cotton candy.

What a great Vacation. We had a BLAST! Look at poor Karson covering his eyes. He was so scared. But he said it was fun and he thought he was pretty brave. Looking forward to many more vacations and family memories

Parents Day Program

2009-05-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

Brinley's 1st grade class had a little program for the parents at the end of the year. They sang a few songs(short and sweet...just how I like them) and then we headed back to the classroom for cookies and Brinley showed us all the special projects she had been working on through out the year.

Brinley loved her teacher Miss Winward. She thinks she is the best teacher EVER and so do I. She really took interest in her class. She told us that this class was the BEST. Every single one of them is reading ABOVE grade level. Now that says A LOT about a teacher. Miss Winward is getting married this summer. Brinley has been talking about it all year long. You would think it was going to be the wedding of the year and Brinley says she will not be missing it for anything.

Karson thinks his big sis is pretty awesome.

The Future is Bright...at Least I Hope So

2009-05-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

Karson had a little program for the end of the year at preschool. Miss Sommer did an excellent job with her class and wanted to show the families what the kids had learned.

Well needless to say Karson thought he was the star of the show.

He was yeasing his neighbor.

being a cool cat.

And just would not partitipate in the songs.

He was just so laid back and hamming it up for everyone to see. I really wonder if he learned anything this year.

When Miss Sommer handed out the awards Karson received the award for Most Willing! What? Really? Miss Sommer said whenever she would ask the class to do something Karson was always willing to do it. Hmmmm didn't show it in the program. You little stinker.

But he sure was proud of his certificate. And we are proud of him too.

Of course rhe favorite part was the lollipop. YUMMY!

Partying Up

2009-05-07T07:06:00.001-07:00

The day after Kyle's Birthday, is Karson's Birthday. We get A LOT of partying in during the month of May. Of course Karson wanted to have a car birthday party...would he have it any other way. He had fun going to the party store and picking everything out with mom. Karson also insisted on a "MATER" cake. Mom was being a little cheap so she decided to make her own. And guess what? It cost me 88 cents! Well plus the cars that I added. It's not professional by any means, but Karson thought it was wonderful.

Well Mom had grand plans for an outdoor party. But of course just like Kyle's party it was rained out. Rrrrrr! So things got scaled back a little for a indoor party.

Okay, these are just random snap shots...but don't you think that it looks like Claira is totally copying Ashlynn? She is so cute.

Karson had fun! When planning his party he said "Yea, we are going to invite all my friends over...turn up the radio...and dance!" Then he proceeded to sing "Life is a highway. I'm going to rock it all night long." The theme songs to Cars the movie. I just love this little guy.

Opening presents with 3 and 4 year olds is an experience in itself. They all wanted to which one was THEIR present. And they kept asking if they got to take it home. Such a hard concept to grasp at that age.

Here's wishing my baby boy a Happy Birthday. Thank goodness he promised me that he will stay 6 forever (and you better believe I'm holding him to it). That means I only have to plan two more parties. Whahoo!

Aaaack There's a Teenager in the House!

2009-05-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

Kyle just celebrated his 13th birthday...which he started out the day by informing me and his dad that WE were getting old, because now we have a teenager. Can you believe that? Kyle is such a friendly, out going kid and he wanted to invite ALL his friends over to help celebrate.

He had it all planned out. HE even made his own invitations. The plan was to watch "Bad News Bears" (which his father thought has QUITE A FEW questionalble scences...Sorry parents, I shouldn't trust a 13 year olds judgement) outside, projected on to the back of the "Farmers Market." He requested a cake from Costco...they are the best, Mom's home made root beer and popcorn. Well of course there were rain showers off and on throughout the day. So mom made a mad dash to clean out the basement. We hung up a sheet on the wall and the kids just hung out down there. I'm so glad Kyle has such good friends. They were all well behaved. Everyone had a good time. Hope you had a Happy Birthday Son!

A Bright Ending to a Long Winter

2009-05-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

Last fall I planted 100 tulip bulbs in my flower garden. In anticipation of the first bloom, I would eagerly watch as the first tiny signs of my tulips popping from beneath the cold, frozen earth.
Over spring break we went to California. I was a little sad that I would miss their first blooms. But as we pulled around the corner, here is what greeted us home. They were an absolutely beautiful sight. Now they are coming to the end of their blooming cycle, and the petals have began to drop. But oh they gave me so much joy and I can't wait for
their arrival next spring!

I Heart 3

2009-03-25T13:40:00.000-07:00

I have to say that Three is my FAVORITE age. I think kids personalities are so dang cute as this age. I keep asking Karson if he will stay three forever? He tells me no that he wants to be a big boy, but he will stay 6 forever. I guess I can settle for that.

I just love how sweet and innocent this kids is. He makes me laugh everyday. I love how he sings "Whahoo...Whahoo"along with Gwen Stephani. And how he sings "Keep bleeding, keep keep bleeding love" with Leona Lewis. Everyday I ask him "How come your so gosh darn..." and he follows up with "Cute?" I just love this little guy. And it makes my heart ache to think that he is growing up way to fast. Oh how I wish he would just stay three FOREVER!

Happy St. Patrick & Spongebob day!

2009-03-17T10:44:00.001-07:00

Karson's Preschool class had their St. Patricks Day Celebration yesterday. As I was getting him ready for school I told him that he had to wear green because they were going to have a St. Patricks day party.

Karson: "And Spongebob too?"

Me: ??? Oh!... Chuckle " No silly boy. Not Patrick and Spongebob. St. Patricks day. ..Everyone wears green.

Karson: "Oh can I wear my Patrick pants?"

Me: ??? Didn't know we owned any Patrick pants LOL! I think my son's a little confused.

Thought it was a little funny.

Anyways hope you all had fun Celebrating St Patty's day! And of course we can't leave out Spongebob!

Gangster Time

2009-03-10T07:01:00.001-07:00

Having four kids with vivid imaginations, makes for some crazy times around the Durrant household. This is the night they introduced my little baby boy to the dark side of the Mexican Mafia.

I told Brian that I wasn't quite comfortable with them teaching Karson to "shoot " people. I kept saying "Karson, we don't shoot people". Brain on the other hand was "oh they're fine. We did it all the time when we were growing up." They do have a fun time playing with each other though. It's fun to watch them play. Check out my bright purple blazer that Ashlynn is wearing. I wore that ALL THE TIME in the 90's...what a blast from the past.

Here's another one of their 'gangster get ups. Although I told them they looked more like the seven dwarfs. Ooooh do you know what the cotton looking stuff on their face is? It's the batting from Brinle'y most cherished blankey...I wonder if she knows. By the way Kyle made his beanie hat all by himself in his Home tech class. I thought he did a pretty good job.

Addicted to...

2009-02-25T14:36:00.000-08:00

My three year old Karson had a new addiction... Nintendo DS. He is constantly on it. His favorite game is Mario Carts. Latelt it has started to become a problem since he won't stop for potty breaks, causing him to have accidents. The other night as I was turning out the lights in the house, long after the kiddos had gone to bed. I peeked my head in to check on Karson and there he was underneath his blankets playing Mario Carts. Little stinker!

Smells Like Disneyland???

2009-02-17T14:38:00.000-08:00

I found this cute dresser for Brinley the other day at Finders Keepers in American Fork. This store has THE CUTEST FURNITURE EVER! I also bought Ashlynn a Dresser and Desk there too. I pretty much wiped out a little corner of their store with my purchases. Anyway's the lady that owns the store takes old furniture and refurbishes it. I would call it shabby chic. And it was exactly what I was looking for. And thier prices are SO reasonable. I only payed $150 for this dresser and it is solid wood. Ashlynn's dresser was only $120 and the desk which came with a chair, was only $170. I will post pictures after I go pick up the desk.

Anyhow Brinley's dresser was made in the 1940's and it has that old musty smell. I told Brinley that I was going to have to get some drawer liners or something so all her clothes didn't stink. She said "No! I like the smell. It smells like Disneyland" Huh??? She says it remindes her of the rides at Disneyland. The only thing I can think of is maybe the Pinochio ride? Or Snow White? Since they are in those old wood buildings they kind of have that musty smell. Maybe Small World? Not sure. So anyhow if my daughter is smelling musty or like Disneyland, you know it is from her dresser.

Super SIMPLE Valentine Decor.

2009-02-05T09:48:00.000-08:00

I don't have much decor in the way of Valentine decorations and I didn't want to go out and buy stuff. But I really needed something to go on my entry way table. So here is what I came up with. real simple. I took the glass out of the frame so it would give it a more dimensional look.

Making this made me remember why I scrapbook. It has been a hard week at our house. The Mama Bear has been a little bit ornery. Had a couple blow ups and had to sit the little kiddos down and have a little heart to heart. While making this project it gave me time to think and realize how much I really do love my kids...even if they REALLY get on my nerves sometimes. Each of them have such great personalities and take life with their mom in stride. Sometimes you need these quiet times to realize how Lucky you are to have such great kids who are happy and healthy. It also lets my kids see that know matter what... their mom ALWAYS loves them.

My new Scrapbook Blog

2009-01-29T09:34:00.000-08:00

Check out my new Blog! There isn't much there yet. LOL! But I plan on using it to post my Scrapbook layouts, Card making ideas and stuff like that. There, I will also let you know about the workshops I have in my home. Hopefully it will be a spot that you check out often for a little inspiration and ideas. brenda-scrapsoflife.blogspot.com

Mr & Mrs Durrant Goes To Washington

2009-01-20T06:45:00.000-08:00

It has been quite fun watching the coverage of President Obamas inauguration and being able to say with Brian I've been there...remember when we were there? It has been fum to reminisce about our trip we took to D.C. last April for David and Vanessa wedding. It was the BEST trip. EVERYONE needs to put the Nations Capitol on their MUST places to visit. This amazing! Full of history and awe. I didn't know quite what to expect...but it was FAR more inspiring than I had ever thought it would be.

So I thought I would share a few photos of our trip. This is just a taste of what we saw and did. It would take me a week or so to blog about. In fact we still didn't see everything we wanted to and are planning a return trip with our kids...when they are a little bit older of course.

The Capitol Building. President Oboma will take the Oath of office today on those steps.

The reflecting pool in front of the Capitol Building. What a gentleman Brian was to LUG my big old purse all over Washington!

Statue in front of the Capital. I forget who the guy on the horse is. I know he is someone important. But there was just too much to remember.

The thing with Washington D.C. being so old, for at least U.S. standards, is that there are all these little gems hidden throughout the city. This is actually what I guess you would call a little courtyard out on the lawn of the Capitol.

It had little benches and a drinking fountain. Behind that little window There is a little waterfall. I couldn't even imagine what great Statesmen have come here take a little break and relax a bit.

Drinking Fountain Outside the Capital Building. No I did NOT drink out of it. Although it was working.

This was by far my most absolutely FAVORTIE building. The Library of Congress. I wonder how you get a Library card. Trust me these pictures do not give it justice. This is the most Beautiful building I have ever seen.

Look at that marble Staircase and pillars

The HAND painted walls and stained glass window were truly breathtaking.

Gorgeous!

Monuments Everywhere! Here is the Jefferson Memorial. All of the monuments and buildings for that fact, are massive.

Thomas Jefferson. They had just gotten trough Celebrating his Birthday a couple days before. That is why you see those wreaths there at the base.

We Stayed at the Gorgeous Mayflower Hotel. Most recently made famous for the Hotel Governor Spitzer used to entertain of be entertained by his high end call girls. Hmmm I wondered why Brian chose this hotel.

Here's Brian hanging outside our Hotel waiting for my LOST luggage. Here's a little funny. Upon arriving to our hotel and unloading the car we realized that we had lost MY luggage somewhere between here and the Airport. Called the Airport to see if it was left on the curb...it wasn't there. Called the Hotel where we had just drop off Craig and Crystalee...wasn't there. So As soon as we checked in our hotel we headed across the street to buy me some new clothes and ALL that other stuff. Wahoo! However when I was in the dressing room Craig calls and tells us that someone had found my luggage. I guess when they unloaded the their luggage they had to take mine out to get to there's. Well apparently they drove off leaving mine on the curb. They said they were going to put my luggage in a cab and send it over to me. Boy were we surprised when a limo pulled up to deliver my luggage. The driver said I'm not sure how much to charge. I haven't ever just given luggage a ride. We ended up paying him $50! Too bad I missed out on getting a whole new wardrobe. However I was glad to get my luggage back. What a fun way to start out vacation. We just laughed about it. Brian Couldn't believe hoe calm I was being over the whole ordeal. Hey what could we do?

Brian was so funny. He was so excited to be running into Senators and such in Washington. He knew who everyone was. I think he was a little star struck. While walking to our Hotel we ended up standing on the curb with George Steffanopolas(sp) I have know Idea how to spell his name. Brian's all under his breath saying "Do you know who that is?" "Yeah Yeah Brian I know". Brian was so excited and went and stood RIGHT next to him. And as soon as George got in his cab. Brian stepped off the curb and snap a photo. What a geek! Now George probably thinks he has some stalker after him.

Lincoln Memorial - It's HUGE!

The New Obama residence

Brian was absolutely fascinated with the White House. We went back a couple of times.

He was really concerned about the Security! He didn't think it was Adequate LOL!

Brian wanted to talk to George Bush about his concerns. Some contractors showed up to set up for something on the White House lawn. Brian thought that maybe he could just sneak in with them. Actually he is on his phone talking to his work. Can I just tell you how much I HATE BlackBerrys. You can never get away.

Brian STILL trying to find George.

This was cool to see. The Tomb of the Unknown.

Even though I have just hit the tip of the iceberg, I have to go now. We loved our trip to DC and I had sooo much fun just spending time with my hubby!

The Dawns Early Light

2009-01-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

Every morning when I look out my window I am amazed at the beauty of the morning sun rise. The first thing I do in the morning is open the blinds in my kitchen so I can witness the amazing gift God has given us. Every morning is different, but just as breathtaking. What a beautiful way to start the day.

Cool Socks Dude!

2009-01-11T13:44:00.000-08:00

I believe in buying only white socks. So much easier to mate. Aunt Karen however gave Karson a package of socks that have stripes...airplanes...trains...and so on. Karson LOVES these socks. The only thing he hates is that when he puts his pants on, they cover up his socks, so he can't see them and neither can anyone else. So he insists on having his pants rolled up when he wears these socks. Brian took him down to the Top Stop to get a drink. As soon as he got out of the car he insisted on pulling his pants up as he walked through the store. Can you imagine? Too Funny! This little boy just gives me the chuckles.

My Baby Just Started Preschool

2009-01-11T13:26:00.001-08:00

My youngest has flew the coop and headed off to Preschool. I'm not sure if I should be happy or sad about this. With my other three kids I waited until they were 4 Years old before I sent them Preschool. But I though this would be great for Karson (who is 3) to get out to interact with other kids, since in the winter time he is stuck inside with only mom. I THINK he is liking preschool. I am sooo impressed with his teacher Miss Sommer. However, he is really bummed that he doesn't get to ride the school bus yet like Brinley. I have to admit I am enjoying my "alone" time that I get for a couple hours a few days a week. But I'm sad to be heading into another phase of my life. Sometimes I wished time would hold still for just a moment.

Karson needed a new backpack for school. I'm really not of fan of Character backpacks, shoes or clothes, But there really isn't much to choose from in the Month of January. I found this back pack for 90% off at KOHLS. Paid a big whopping $2 for it. Now that's a deal!

My big boy!

CHEERS!

2009-01-06T06:57:00.000-08:00

As we look back and Celebrate another great year for the Durrants we are grateful for all of our many blessings. Do you ever feel like life is too good? That is how I feel. However, I feel a little apprehension that the ride might end soon and it scares me. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful husband and great kids. Here's hoping for another great year!

We party hard!

Is it Midnight yet?

Actually it is only 7:30pm

1:30 AM Wake Up Call

2009-01-05T17:52:00.000-08:00

So what time did you all get up on Christmas Morning? Yup it was 1:30 AM for our household. I heard Santa leave at about 1:15AM. Then Ashlynn got up to go to the bathroom, saw all the goodies Santa brought and went and woke everyone up. I heard her up and about and I leaned over to Brian in bed and exclaimed"You've got to be kidding me!" Which he replied "Who gave Santa the idea to come early this year?" Santa Usually doesn't come until around 5AM, but this year he wanted to get it over with so he could get some zzzzzzzzzz. I think next year I'm telling Santa to wrap EVERYTHING. That way we can send them back to bed and make them wait for Mom and Dad to get up before tearing into their presents. However Brian and I did go back bed and told them they could not open any presents or wake Karson up until 6AM.
Santa scored big when he brought Karson a race track. This kid raced cars for three days straight. He was always asking his dad to come to his room to race. He also got a remote control car. Needless to say...we need to go on a battery run.

What 12 year old boy doesn't want a cell phone. "All my friends have one!" Santa caved

Brinley was not happy AGAIN this year...She got too many clothes and not enough Toys...Will I ever please this child? Grrrr!

Karson got this air compressor thingy that he Loves. Here he is fixing the tires on Ashlynn's new scooter.

The girls each got a Nintendo DS. Brinley got frustrated with the games. I think it had to do with the lack of sleep.

Ashlynn on her Scooter and Brinley on her new bike. Too bad there was to much snow outside to take the bikes out. Ashlynn spent the day driving her scooter up and down the hall way. Poor thing. Hopefully we thaw out soon so they can take thier new toys for a spin.

Brinley crashing at 4PM. I think we all felt this way by the end of the day. Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas.

Not a little Funny...but a BIG Funny!

2009-01-01T09:31:00.000-08:00

So I'm sitting here trying to get caught up on some blogging. Brian comes down and says's "The door knob on our bathroom is messes up. You know, we really need to get it replaced before one of us get stuck in the bathroom. I can just see me getting it stuck in there and them you posting it on your blog. How embarassing"

I little while later a hear " Kyle...Mom...Anyone..."

Guess what Brian got locked in the bathroom...kind of a self fulfilling prophecy. We couldn't figure how to get him out. Kyle shimmied a screwdriver under the door and Brian removed the door knob...but that didn't help much. Then Brinley came up with removing the hinges. Kyle pounded the door a few times and our dad was Free!

What a door knob:)

Hoping Daddy Makes it Home for Christmas

2009-01-01T08:53:00.000-08:00

This is what was happening outside our house on December 22. Brian was supposed to be flying home on December 23, after spending the past two weeks in Australia golfing, taking morning jogs on the beach, taking excursions to exotic Island and oh yah...I THINK he was working there too. Anyways we were getting quite nervous because flights were be canceled or delayed and we worried he might have to rent a car and drive home. But Lucky for us he made it home safe and sound. It is so good to have him home with us. We missed our dad.

Never Met a GingerBread Man That I Didn't Like

2009-01-01T08:29:00.000-08:00

For Christmas I wanted to do a little something for the kids in my Nursery Class at Church. Well I kind of waited until the last minute...Sunday Morning:) and decided to make gingerbread men.

Of course my kiddos were eager to help...note to self...not a good thing to do on Sunday Morning!

mine

Their's

Boy this gingerbread man should have ran...he does not look happy.

Now HURRY...let's get ready for church!

A Conversation with Santa

2009-01-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

Santa stopped by at our family Christmas Party and Karson ran right up to greet him. Karson LOVES Santa. It was so Magical to see Christmas through the eyes of a three year old this year. Karson was not at all afraid to sit on the Jolly Old Mans lap. I'm not sure what they were chatting about, but I think Karson would have sat there all night long, if Santa hadn't of put him down so Santa could get the list of the other good boys and girls. After everyone had a chance to visit with Santa we all sang some songs for him. Karson stood there right in front of Santa and sang as loud as he could. It was soooo cute. I have it all on video...but I haven't figured out how to post video yet:)
Of course Karson asked for a race car...is there anything else for that boy?

Santa told Ashlynn that her remembered her from last year. She told Santa that she wanted a DS and some games and a bike.

Brinley gave a a whole list of things. A Nintendo DS, a scooter, some barbies, a American doll ....

Dance "Showcase"

2008-12-17T13:00:00.000-08:00

This year Brinley wanted to move up to the Hip Hop dance class with Ashlynn. So she was one of the youngest in the group. They usually have a Christmas dance recital. But for some reason...I don't know why... they opted for a showcase instead of a recital. Ashlynn was pretty bummed out, when she found out that she would not be on stage performing this year for family and friends. After all, that is the main reason she wanted to do dance...to perform. Instead they invited family to the studio to see what the girls had learned.

My Hip Hoppers

Tricky move Ashlynn!

Brinley doing her "coffee grinder"

Getting her groove on.

Ashlynn and Brinley did a GREAT job. It was SHORT and sweet...a whole 10 min. No kidding!

Brinley however said she wants to take a break from dance for a little while. Ashlynn wants to continue, but wants to do Ballet...so she can be more graceful. I think we will be looking for some place where she can perform. Anyone recommend a good studio?

The girls really do love each other and like hanging out with one another. Don't they look sooo happy together? Actually Ashlynn's earring is caught in Brinley's bun...which in turn pulls her earring out of her ear...which leads to screaming and crying as we are walking out the door to the show case. Got to Love it! Always Drama LOL!

Hoping Santa Gets His List Right

2008-12-15T11:11:00.000-08:00

Can anyone else relate? Here's Brinley in her Hannah Montana wig ...crying Christmas Morning, because she though for certain that Santa had goofed up, when he gave ASHLYNN a Hannah Montana Barbie Doll. That is what SHE wanted and she insisted that it was hers. She soon calmed down when she unwrapped her Sharpey Barbie. Whew...I'm so hoping Santa gets it right this year and we have Christmas Morning without any tears.

Horse Drawn Adventure

2008-12-10T07:23:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we headed to Thanksgiving Point to check out the lights.

We went a little bit early because I wanted to get some photos for our Christmas cards, but my kids were a bunch of belly ache rs and would not cooperate, so we quickly abanded that idea.

My girls are always up for posing for mom.

A good one of Brinley

I liked this one of Ashlynn, although it is a little out of focus.

While waiting for the lights to turn on we headed to the ice cream parlor for some Hot Chocolate

This isn't your ordinary Hot Chocolate. This is their Hot Chocolate float. MMMMM it so so yummy. They start off with Hot Chocolate add a scoop of ice cream (this cools it off just right)...add some whip cream, pecans and top it off with a Cherry. My plan was to just share with Karson. But he was not up for any of that nonsense. So I ordered my own. You MUST try one the next time you are there. And trust me you won't want to share yours with anyone either.

Brian with his girls, enjoying their Hot Chocolate

So it finally becomes time for us to head out to see the lights. We usually just drive through in our car, but this year we decided to take the Horse drawn wagon ride to see the lights. Not sure if we will be doing that next year. As you can see we were up close and "personal" to the horses. And apparently I am allergic to horses (along with Christmas Trees...and a whole list of other things). I was sneezing the whole way through the lights and by the end of our ride I was so stuffed up, my eyes were just an itching and I could not breathe. So next year I think it is back to the car. But it was a fun memory. Hoping to create many more memories, with my cute family.

Jingle all the Way!

The Halls Have Been Decked

2008-12-08T08:54:00.000-08:00

My Entry Way...My Favorite So I've had all my Christmas totes strung all over the house for over a week now. So I've came to the conclusion that I am FINISHED decorating. What I have out is all that I'm putting up this year. It is time to clean things up and move on. So I thought I would share some of our Families Holiday decor.

MY Christmas tree. We ended up with two Christmas trees this year. You see we started with one...well actually it was two trees that had grown into one tree. Anyhow... I thought that after it was decorated, nobody was going to be able to tell it was two trees in one. So we went ahead and cut it down. Well as we were carrying it to the truck it split...YIKES! I figured once we got home, we would just wire the trunk back together. But the trunk ended up being too big for the stand. So we ended having two trees this year. I love it...now the kids can have their own tree to decorate their way. I think we will be getting two trees every year. You can never have too many Christmas Trees.

The kids decorating THEIR tree.

After our Thanksgiving feast at Grandma and Grandpa's house, we made Gingerbread houses. The kids had a blast. Brinley and Ashlynn fell to temptation and ATE their gingerbread houses. Here are Kyle's and Karson's. Karson put his candy on all by himself! And Kyle was trying to be a little more creative and made a barn.

Here's My Nutcracker Brian got me when he was in Germany last year around Christmas Time.

I HAVE to have a Poinsettia During the Holidays. I think they are so festive. And It has to be the BIG ones that they sell at Costco.

My Cute kiddos...I think I'm going to add some red berries to the wreath.

Chandelier...I do the same thing every year...Next year I think I will try some thing new!

I LOVE My snow flake hanging over my Kitchen island. I keep these up all during January.

My little bike on Our front Porch. I bought those cute candles that light up and flicker at Wal-greens. So cute and welcoming at night.

Hope your Holidays are Merry and Bright!

Looking for Tuscany...ended up with Spaghetti Sauce

2008-11-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

So here's the results of my weekend project. I have always wanted to glaze my kitchen wall, to give it kind of the Tuscany feel. So Saturday morning I headed down to Lowes to pick up some glaze. I wasn't sure what color I wanted, but I KNEW I didn't want red or orange in it. So I picked up a quart of Mocha. Went home and proceeded to glaze. Did not like it. Just looked like I had a dirty wall and I needed more color. I remembered that I had some gel stain left over from glazing Kyle's Bedroom...But it was a little orange. Went a head and gave it a try. LOVED IT! So I proceeded to do the whole big wall...HATED it. It was way too Orange but there was no turning back now. By dear neighbor Bobby used to work in the paint department at Home Depot. I knew she had a stash of odds and ends paint, so I headed over to her house to see if she could help remedy my problem. She handed me a quart of a tobacco colored stain. It did help tone it down a bit. It STILL isn't what I set out to achieve. But all in all it turned out pretty good I think. It's just a little hard to get used to.

Brian actually LOVES it. He wants me to continue it onto the next wall, where the windows are. I don't think I'm up to that, it does need some more color over there though. Any Suggestions? Right now it is a bisque color. My family thinks I'm crazy, because they always catch me just staring at my wall. I do Love how it has warmed my kitchen up.

Photo Shoot at Silver Lake

2008-11-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

When I first got my new camera, we took the kids to Silver Lake up AF canyon, for a little photo shoot. The lake had fallen quite a bit, exposing a huge pile of boulders on the lake bed. The kids had so much fun climbing and exploring on them and it turned out to be a perfect place for picture taking.

So here are a few of my favs.

Ashlynn is my must cooperative poser

Here's my girls

Brinley will bait her own fish hook. Not me...I can't stand the "pop" the worm makes when you put it on the hook. eeeeew!

Brian wishes his kids liked to fish more. Brinley is the one who likes it the most...but it still isn't her favorite thing.

Here's some of my favorites of Karson. Yes, we have some dental issues.

And here's our oldest... Kyle

My fave of Kyle

How come it is soooo difficult to get a good group shot...with everyone looking at the camera?

I've seen that you can merge group photos in photoshop, so you get EVERYONE looking at you, WITHOUT goofy smiles. I'm going to do some playing around with photoshop this week.

I simply LOVE this photo of Karson and Kyle. It's like Kyle is giving him some brotherly advice.

Aren't big Brothers the Best!

On a VERY sad note. I was downloading pictures from my camera onto the computer. Well Brinley's foot happened to catch the camera strap, pulling my camera to the floor. Now it is all messed up. I Had it for 40 days and of course it HAD a 30 day warranty on it. So anyhow it has been sent off for repairs. I should have it back in 2-4 weeks. Aaack.

Ashlynn's Birthday Wishes

2008-10-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

Ashlynn and her good friend Hailey share the same Birthday, so they usually swap who's going to have their party that day. So on Ashlynn's "real" Birthday we just had a small family party. Ashlynn got to choose what we had for dinner...Homemade Burritos and what cake she wanted me to make...Coconut.

The Friday before was the opening of High School Musical 3. We had Ashlynn's friends over for Pizza and Ice cream Sundays before we headed to the movie.

Ashlynn is our inspiring Fashion designer. When I asked her what she wanted for her Birthday she said "a bunch of fabric... Shinny, Sparkly fabric." Aunt Karen gave her some Birthday money and this is what she bought with it. Her friend Hailey also gave her fabric. She was in heaven. Another little friend Megyn gave her a fashion sketch book, which she spent all weekend doodling in. So keep an eye out for "Ashlynn's Fashions." Soon to hit the runways.

I think Brinley is a little jealous about Ashlynn's Gabriella doll. Brinley actually ended up spending her Birthday money on a Gabriella AND Troy doll for herself.

The Girls had a good time. I even thought the movie was pretty good.

Ashlynn I hope all your Birthday wishes come true.

Parade of Costumes

2008-10-29T06:43:00.000-07:00

We spent the past weekend at Grandma's and Grandpa's house. Every year Grandma host a Halloween party that we all look forward to going to. Everyone dresses up... Well almost everyone. There are some Party pooper. Yes including me this year. So anyhow I thought I would share our parade of costumes, since everyone looked so great.

Grandma & Grandpa

No we were attacked by terrorist...It's just Kyle. He's twelve...enough said.

Ashlynn our 50's girl

Sweet Brinley as Dorothy

Karson as Dorothy's sidekick Scarecrow

Evan...Bobbie's little guy, had a hard time seeing from beneath his puppy head.

Super Girl Avery...also belongs to Bobbie

The Three Sisters...Mom, Aunt Julie, Aunt Christy

Brigitte's Oldest... Jake the Caveman

Brigitte's next in line...Colton as Frank.

Brigitte's little Girl Claira the cute little kitty.

Dorothy and Scarecrow

Dorothy and Scarecrow didn't know what quite to think when the wicked Witch of the West showed up. EEEK!

The Three Cousins...Alyssa, Ashlynn, and Emily

Ron'E and Melanie's Kids...Tyler, Alyssa, and Alex

Aunt Christy made Bee costumes for her clan...10 total!

We hope You all have a Spooktacular Halloween!

Elvis is in the House

2008-10-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

Ashlynn had a Daddy Daughter date with her dad. It was a Halloween Costume party and Ashlynn dressed up as a 50's girl while Brian dressed up as Elvis.

There were a bunch of GREAT costumes. Everyone went all out. It was really fun. Here Are the winners of the costume contest. Don't they look AWESOME!

This year we decided to do a service project and go TRICK or TREATING for the food bank. So after dinner, the girls and their dads went around the neighborhood collecting food. They collected over 500 cans and we delivered it to the local food bank. Way to go girls and dads!

Karson's New Friend

2008-10-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

While celebrating Brinley's Birthday at Hee Haws, Karson made a new friend. He loved hanging out in the petting zoo, where he really bonded with this chicken. I couldn't believe how brave he was.

Celebrating Brinley

2008-10-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

Brinley turned 7 on October 22nd and we spent the whole day Celebrating her. Brinley is my determined little girl who likes things her way and is very hard to persuade other wise. I had a hard time picking out an outfit for her this year. I loved this outfit, but was very worried that she was going to refuse to wear it, since often times I will buy her clothes and she will say " I look stupid." So I went to her room to give her her outfit. She told me to go out while she got dressed. So I walked away to go make her Birthday Breakfast, crossing my fingers that we would not have a battle. A few minutes later she came prancing into the kitchen saying "I love these leggins." Whew! dodged a bullet. I'm so glad she liked it. I though she looked adorable.

Karson and I went to visit Brinley and take her class a treat. Before they sang Happy Birthday to her, the kids got to ask Brinley some questions about herself. It was all cute until they started asking questions about me, including when I was born. I let them know that I was REALLY REALLY OLD!

When deciding on what we were going to do for Brinley's Party this year, the original plan was to go to Justice. It's a girls clothing store that also hosts Birthday Parties. You go there and do "girly" things. Like getting your hair and nails done and doing some crafty things. She had talked about for the last six months. But then she really wanted her little friend Wesley who is a little boy she always plays with to come. So She asked if we could go to Hee Haw Farms instead. Of course I was more than happy to oblige.

They had a lot of fun on the Tractor rides, slides and little spook alleys.

The kids that were a bit bigger had fun peddling the go carts around.

It turned out to be a perfect day.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRINLEY!

My Favorite of Brinley

2008-10-18T20:06:00.000-07:00

Going through My Pictures taken at the Star Mill, I came across this one of Brinley. She always has that cute little smile. And I just absolutely love her little mole on her nose.

Milling Around The Old Star Mill

2008-10-18T18:28:00.000-07:00

My newest ambition is to be a Photographer. So for our Anniversary this year my sweet husband Brian bought me a camera to play around with, until I can enroll in photography classes at the local University. Which I'm shooting for the bgining of the year. So anyways, since Kyle and Brian were away on the deer hunt this weekend. I took the youngest three to the Star Mill for a little photo shoot.

I took this one especially for Brain. He always teases me about cutting peoples heads off.

Here's a cute one of Karson and Brinley.

Ashlynn is always good to pose for me (the other two... not so much) I got quite a few good ones of her that I will have to post later.

They didn't cooperate for long. While I was trying to photograph Karson, Brinley and Ashlynn came zooming by. I asked what they were doing. "Chasing Apples Mom!"

There was the apple tree next to the little creek. Brinley would shake the tree and the apples would float down the stream. And the girls would chase after them to see whose apple made it under the bridge first.

They had a good time and I pretty much gave up on getting them to pose and just let them play. I did however get some cute candid shots.

Brinley with her winning apple.

The END!

Wish I could Figure Out This Blogging Stuff

2008-10-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

ARGH! I'm new to this blogging stuff, and I wish I could figure out how to do what I want it to do and figure WHY it does things that it SHOULDN'T. Like why is part of my sentence in the post below highlighted? And then why is there such a big empty space at the end of my post? I NEED LESSON!

Our Budding Sculptor

2008-10-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

For Fourth Grade Social Studies this year, they are studying Utah History. One of the project was to sculpt someone famous. Ashlynn chose Sally Kanosh. Sally was an Indian girl who was adopted by Brigham Young and then later became wife to Chief Kanosh. I am so proud of her. Ashlynn is such a good student and she tries her best at everything she does. It took her over two hours to complete but she stuck with it and it turned out great.

Don't you think it looks "Just like" Sally Kanosh?

Ashlynn was so excited to take her Sculptor to school. She was very proud of it and thought it would be the best in her class. Although later she came home andtold me that it was only second best. Ashlynn you'll always be best in my book.

Granparents Day

2008-10-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

Brinley's First grade class recently had Grandparents Day. Brinley was a little nevous that Grandma and Grandpa wouldn't be able to make it, since they had to come all the way from Vernal. But of course they came. They are so good about driving hours to come support their grandkids and then turn around and go home. But it meant the world to Brinley to have them there.

The kids did a short program for their grandparents had cookies and then took there granparents back to there class room, where the grandma's and grandpa's got to feel out a questionaire about what it was like when they were little kids.

Karson and I got to go the previous day to watch Brinley practice for Grandparents Day. She is quite an animated singer and so fun to watch. They did a great Job.

Oh HapPEE Day!

2008-10-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

We are celebrating here at the Durrant houshold. After four kids and twelve years of changing dirty diapers I have finally been liberated. Karson FINALLY decided that diapers were for babies and he wasn't going to wear them anymore.

It was a long process. I started out by buying him a potty that sings a little song to you, while you are sitting on it. And then if you actaully "tinkle" you hear drum rolls and flashing lights go off and then you get a sticker! Quite elabotate I know, but I thought he would be so excited to use it. No... not so much. He wasn't too impressed. So my second route was to deny him cars. Karson is a little obsessed with cars. Usually when we are shopping at Wal Mart, I will let him pick out one of those $.97 match box cars to add to his collection. Plus it keeps him occupied while I shop. Well, I cut him off and told him he can't get a car until he went potty. That didn't work. For months we would go down the car aisle at the store and he would just say "When I go potty I get a car?" and I'd say "Yep when you go potty, I will get you a car." Brian even told him he would buy him what ever he wanted ...even a new Power Wheel car if he would just go pott!. At this point we were getting real sick of changing butts.

One day Karson came to me and said "Can I go outside and play?" to which I replied "As soon as you go potty, you can go outside." And that is when my life changed. He actually went right upstairs and went potty. I cannot tell you how happy I was. We have not had to change a diaper since then. Yeah! Silly I know. But I can't believe I finally have all my children out of diapers.

As a reward I took Karson to Toys r Us to pick out any toy he wants. He chose a Diego jeep with some animals. Diego is his favorite TV show right now. So now he plays along and rescues animals while he watches the TV show. I'm glad he didn't pick the $300 Power Wheel Car. Whew!

Now that karson is Officially a Big Boy we had to get him a big boy bed. Previously he was STILL in a crib (yes you can tell he was my baby and it was hard to accept that he was growing up). But now he has his car bed. So far we haven't had any problems of being scared and gettin out of bed (knock on wood).

Some I'm coming to the realization that my kids are growing up and I'm getting old. I don't know which one I'm having a harder time accepting.

Ready For Some Spartan Football.

2008-10-14T07:35:00.000-07:00

This Year Saratoga Springs satarted their own Football League. The past three years Kyle had been playing on the Lehi team. But with all the growth and with the new high school coming next year in was time for a split.
For most of the boys on Kyle 7th Grade team, this was the first year they had played tackle football. Hence their team isn't the best 0-7 (smiles) but Kyle is still having fun, and they have improved tons since the first part of the season.

Kyle is playing the Center postion this year. He wasn't too sure if he was going to like it. It's a tough position. In the past he had always played tackle. But he is doing great there. He does get beat up a bit more and the older he gets the bigger the boys get. I'm always worried that he is going to get hurt.

That's Kyle holding back BIG 99!

I think Football is a great sport for boys. It very grueling physically it gets them into shape. But most of all there is no other sport that requires as much teamwork as football. In order to win Everyone has to do their part. These boys rely on one another. They have had the best coaches this year. I am amazed at how much time they VOLUNTEER. It's usually five days a week that theses men work all day and then come and work with these boys for a couple hours each night. Time they are away from their familes or other things they could be doing. As a parent I am very appeciative for how much time and effort they they put in to teaching my son football.

Back to School

2008-08-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the year again and the kids are headed back to school. Now it will only be Karson and me at home. I'm looking forward to getting back on some type of a schedule, but I don't like how our lives seem to get so busy when school starts.

Kyle is in Jr. High now. Can you believe it? He is growing up so fast. It seem like just yesterday I was running out of the school building crying as I dropped him off at Kindergarten. Gosh time flies.

Ashlynn was so excited that school was finally starting again. She began 4th Grade this year. Ashlynn LOVES School and she loves fashion. She says's she wants to be a fashion designer when she grows up. Although when she came home from School today she said she is going to wait until it gets a little cooler before she wears her boots again. Her feet were a tad bit hot.

Brinley my 1st Grader had to be like her big sister Ashlynn and wear boots today (even though mom bought her a cute pair of shoes to go with her new outfit) but it is no use arguing with Brinley, cause you aren't going to win LOL! Her feet got hot as well.

Brinley Started 1st Grade. She was really worried about getting on the right bus, finding her class, and getting her lunch. Good thing she had her big sis Ashlynn to help her out.