A Day in the Life of ...

FUN FUN FUN

2011-07-02T22:44:00.000-07:00

Summer has been so much fun. We have had a lot to do. We have enjoyed swimming lessons, slip n slides, water balloons, kangaroo zoo, play dates with cousins, camp fires with lots of roasting of the marshmallows, Britton's birthday, Abby's birthday, hiking, homemade drive in, sprinkler fun on the trampoline, visits to the park, fishing, playing in the sand, card games, board games, wii, movies, treats, indoor hide and go seek, baking, and lots more fun. I love the summer and I love playing with my kids.

Parker's Life Jacket

2011-06-13T06:14:00.000-07:00

On Saturday June 11th @ 4:30pm, we were invited to go to a surprise party for Ben. We were excited to get to have a fun time with family and swim for the first time this season. So the kids were excited to start to swim. The pool was heated and was 86 degrees, it was perfect. The kids were having a great time. Jumping off the diving board and playing with cousins. We decided it was time for dinner so we asked the kids to get out of the pool. We took our kids over to the grass and asked them to sit there while we made there plates. My sister told me she would watch the girls so we went to make some plates of food. We got in line I handed Dan five plates and started to place hot dog buns on the plates. When all of a sudden there was a some commotion in the water. People were saying that that little boy didn't look right. The next thing I saw was a boy being lifted out of the water. He wasn't responding and his eyes were rolled back, his lips were blue and was extremely pale. I started to yell call 911 and said give him to Dan he knows CPR. They handed him to Dan, as Dan turned him over we both realized for the first time that this child was Parker. Dan said his first thought was what is Parker doing in the water. Dan realized that Parker wasn't breathing but that he moved an arm slightly so rolled him over again and hit his back a few times and Parker coughed and them started to cry. Then he threw up twice and was more alert. We then took him to the emergency room and they listened to his lungs and did an x-ray. His lungs looked good and he was feeling a lot better. But we had to stay at the hospital for at least eight hours because after a lung injury, eight hours later the lungs can get inflamed and the child will stop breathing. Parker's lungs were great he had a good night and we were able to come home the next day. We asked Parker what happened and how he ended up in the pool. He said when he had sat down for dinner he decided to take off his life jacket because it wasn't his and he didn't want to get food on it. Britton and Bryson decided to jump in the pool one last time and Parker saw and said I want to jump in to. He said I forgot I took off my life jacket. Now Parker has had three years of swimming lessons but he just panicked. We realized that we are very blessed and that the Lord has a hand in our lives. We have had an amazing response from family, friends, ward members and neighbors. We realize that Parker is loved by so many. We are so grateful that Bruce, the man that noticed something wasn't quite right with Parker and Nick and Brandon for pulling him out of the water. There are angels among us.

School is out

2011-06-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that school is out. I love the summertime fun. I love the sound of splashing water, and the giggling that immediately follows. I love the trips to the park. I love to go camping and sit by a fire snuggled with a kid on my lap. I love the time we spend with cousins. I love to work in the yard and enjoy the out doors. I love to play with the kids and create something new. I love summertime and everything about it.

NORMAL

2011-04-10T13:59:00.001-07:00

Well Abby went to the doctor with week and all of her labs were in normal range. I am so grateful for Abby's team that she has been working with and for the consistencey they have had during this time. She doesn't have to go back to the doctor for three months now and we are so grateful for that. I feel that the Lord had his hand in this and I am grateful for the power of the priesthood and prayer. Thanks for all the prayers and calls. I think that it is amazing to run into people who I haven't seen in years and for someone to say how is your little girl and I ask how did you hear and usually the reply is I read your blog. Anyway life is good.

Family update

2011-03-13T21:24:00.000-07:00

Britton - 9 yrs. old loves sports especially soccer, basketball and football. He loves to read. Loves being outside. He is gaining a huge knowledge of the scriptures. And is a big teaser.
Bryson - 7 yrs. old loves any video games, fighting cartoons, riding his bike and scooter. He loves math and reads awesome. He loves to be in his p.j.'s and wakes up before 7 every morning.
Parker - 5 yrs. old he is learning to ride a bike. Loves to play anything outside with Britton and Bryson. He is learning to read and doing great. He is taking speech at school and learning to say his sounds so much better. He is such a peace maker and tries so hard to do the right thing.
Abby - 3 yrs. old loves movies, playing dolls, coloring, doing stickers, play play doh, helping cook anything in the kitchen, playing dressup, going to dance with Miss Shaundee, play super heros and taking care of Brynlee.
Brynlee - 18 months loves playing with Strawberry shortcake(which she calls cake cake), playing with dolls, playing kitchen, singing, reading stories, pulling all the dvds out of the entertainment center, climbing on the chairs and table, taking baths and playing with her brothers and sisters.
Dan - still is the DARE officer, working a second job, taking extra sifts, playing dad, scouts, teaching elders quorum, working out, trying to fix problems at home and being my best friend.
Me - being a mom, wife, primary teacher, exercising, counting calories, cleaning house, organizing priorities. Trying to balance life in the right way. What is important and what isn't?

Great News!

2011-02-13T14:09:00.000-08:00

Well, we had another visit to the doctor this week. Abby had another ultra sound and the liver is back to normal size. Hooray!!! Her pancreas is still a little swollen but it is smaller than the images before. Her labs were all almost back to normal. They have not been able to diagnose her with anything. All of the labs came back negative, for the viruses they thought it was and all of common liver diseases. So they are just saying that she had some unknown virus and we will probably never know what it was. They are going to keep a close watch on her. She doesn't have to go back to the doctor for two months and then six months and then a year and then they will probably watch her for three years after that. They said that they would just like to be sure it stays away for good. Which is extremely comforting to me.
It is so cute to hear her say her prayers and thank Heavenly Father for blessing her liver, and making it all better. I am grateful for all the support we have been given and the love and prayers.

Abby

2011-01-27T10:04:00.000-08:00

Abby will not love this picture in a few years but this was the best picture we could take while she was in the hospital because the flash from the camera hurt her eyes. Anyway if you can tell she is yellow in the purple outfit. So this is for Julie and Megan she is happy and feeling really good.

A Picture of Abby!

2011-01-27T09:56:00.000-08:00

For those that live away there's a picture of Abby. She is doing so good. We went to Primary's again this week for more labs and we had more good results. Her liver function GGT is almost back to normal, her AST and ALT labs were in the 50's and 60's which those were in the high 100's. We will get the results of the rest of the lab results on Friday.

This is a picture of her at her dance recital. She was so excited until we got there and then she wouldn't dance with her class. Hopefully next time she will be more willing. She loves dance and she loves Miss Shaundee.

More about Abby D!

2011-01-11T21:16:00.000-08:00

Today we had another appointment for Abby. Her first appointment was with ultra sound. She was such a good girl she was very still and listened very well to the tech. The radiologist came in and He was happy with the pictures so he didn't have to do anymore which was good because Abby was ready to go. Next She had to go to the lab. She was fasting for the ultra sound and was starting to eat her breakfast on our way over the the lab. Once we got to the lab she was happy eating her bagel but as soon as she heard her name she knew where she was going and started to cry. She was so upset. They made three attempts and finally got some blood. She was so upset that she made herself puke all over the floor. She calmed down and got some prizes and then we went to the liver clinic. She did great there and her results from the labs and ultra sound were already posted. Her doctor said that her gall bladder is back to normal size and doesn't seem to be filled with fluid. Her pancreas is still swollen but, the ducts seem to be normal size. The liver is still enlarged but has decreased in size. The GGT which is the liver functioning lab was down to 34 and was at 465 a month ago. So a lot of progress is being made. But some of the liver labs have increased since her labs 4 weeks ago so the doctor has ordered more labs. We go back in 2 weeks and those labs will be more for the liver. She is feeling better. She looks and acts better. We are grateful for the power of prayer and fasting. We know that the Lord has a hand in all things and that He is watching out for our little girl. Please continue to pray for Abby. Thank you for your prayers we know she will get better over time.

A call from the teacher

2011-01-05T22:51:00.000-08:00

Whenever I usually get a call from a teacher it isn't the best of news. But this time I was thrilled. Parker's teacher called the other day but we weren't home so she left a message and she said, Mrs. Gardner this is Mrs. Dallof, I just wanted to share a story with you about Parker that absolutely warmed my heart. So I called her back and she said I just want you to know that your Parker is the sweetest little thing. Monday at school was TOY DAY. Each kid got to bring one toy to school to share at show and tell. Then after show and tell they could play with there toys for a few minutes. All the kids were playing with the toys and Mrs. Dallof was wandering around the room visiting with the kids. She came up to Parker and he said, "You know Mrs. Dallof Christmas isn't about the presents and what we get from Santa it is about Baby Jesus being born. Its remembering His birth and the love and care that we share with others. She said that He was so sincere and that he really touched her.
We tried really hard this year to explain to the kids what Christmas is all about and not being so concerned about the presents that we get, but to try and think about our Savior and the miracles that have taken place. I was so happy to learn that Parker a 5 year old little boy could understand the true meaning of Christmas.

More for Abby

2010-12-19T14:33:00.000-08:00

Well we went to Primary Children's again this week and they did more labs and they came back excellent. The liver functions are improving and all the other numbers are continuing to decline. We were so happy to get such great results. We also did an other ultra sound on Friday. The results weren't as good. The liver is still enlarged and the pancreas is still swollen, and the gall bladder is full of fluid. So we don't know if those organs will just take more time to go down or of there is still something causing the problem. We pray for some better answers but the results we have found are all good news. She is also feeling really good which makes us feel comfortable with the outcome this far.

ABBY UPDATE!!!

2010-12-07T23:35:00.000-08:00

We got some good news today with her lab results. Her bilirubin has improved and she does look at lot less yellow. And also her AST and ALT labs which are enzymes in the liver have improved. We still don't know what she has or how she got it but we are hoping to get more answers on Thursday. The other labs we were told can take weeks to show improvement. She is such a sweet girl and today she was so hungry. She hasn't had much of an appetite for about three weeks but today she was starving(so she said) all day. We were getting the car washed today and she asked mommy are we done yet because I am so hungry. I told her I was almost finished. Then she said I am so hungry can we go get a hamburger and fries. It was only 10:00am. I told her we were going home and she could have a snack and she was thrilled. I am so grateful to have such an amazing family and friends. I can't believe how many people have called, visited, or sent something for Abby. Thanks so much everyone. I know that the Lord is watching over Abby and is giving me the strength each day to help me accomplish all I need to do in a day.

Abby

2010-12-05T00:07:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm not sure how to start. Abby has not been feeling well for about 3 weeks. She first went to the doctor for a rash and they said it was strep, and then her eyes started to look funny and we went to the doctor and they said that it was allergies. And then we went to the doctor because she had stomach aches, bathroom problems, and very pale. And last time we went to the doctor she was starting to turn yellow. The whites of her eyes have turned yellow and her skin is also yellow. So after her dance class on Tuesday night Dan and I took her down to Primary Children's Hospital to see if they could help us figure out what is going on with Abby. So after a few blood tests and an xray they decided they needed to run a few more tests to answer a few more questions. So she was admitted and we were told that her liver is enlarged, her pancreas is swollen, and her gall bladder is bulging which is causing the jaundice. So they scheduled her for a MRI the next day, which wasn't until 6:00pm and she couldn't eat or drink all day. That was such a hard thing to try and explain to a three year old. Anyway they thought that they would find a gall stone which is blocking everything but that wasn't the case. So they said until more blood work is done they are not sure what is causing the problems. So they sent us home. We did some blood work on Friday and her levels went up again so we are praying that the levels will go down on Monday. We are not sure exactly what will happen after that. I know that the Lord blesses us each and everyday. And I just ask that each of you will ask for Abby to be blessed.

HELP!

2010-11-03T22:01:00.001-07:00

How do I get rid of this photo bucket thing on my blog? ANYONE?

Thanks for the help!!

2010-11-03T21:43:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR ALL THE HELP!!!

Parker!

2010-04-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

So we are sitting at the table eating lunch and Parker says I can count by tens. 10, 20, 30, 80, 90, 60, 40, 70, 100 and Bryson says that is not right and starts to count by 10's. Then Bryson says I can count by 11's, and does so, and I can count by 5's and does so, and I can count by 3's and does so. The whole time Bryson is counting Parker is just watching and smiling. After Bryson was done counting Parker says oh, yah I can count by 0's. Zero, Zero, Zero, see. I swear that kid kills me.

Kids say the funniest things

2010-03-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

Parker was leaving the dinner table the other night and turned back to Dan and I and said, "Mom and Dad, after Jesus you guys are the second nicest people in the world." And then he just walked away. I wonder what goes on in their little minds.

Double surgery day

2010-03-30T22:09:00.000-07:00

Today we took Abby and Brynlee in for surgery. Brynlee is getting tubes in her ears. She has had an ear infection almost consistently for three months. With our family history of ear infections we decided she would be better off getting tubes now and not waiting any longer. Whe did so good in surgery. She was a little scared when she woke up, but as soon as I was able to feed her she was fine. And for the rest of the day she was an angel. We are so grateful to have such a happy baby.
Abby had her adenoids removed. She has had a sinus infection since September. We are hoping that this will cure her. She didn't have as good of a day as Brynlee. She was so scared when the doctors took her into the operating room. I wanted to cry and crawl into a hole. And when she woke up she was so upset. She kept trying to pull out her I.V. and didn't want them to take her oxygen levels. She finally fell asleep on my lap and we were able to finish the I.V. and watch her levels for an hour. They let us leave the hospital and she through up in the car and was so out of it all day. Its now been two weeks and she still isn't 100 percent better. I hope this will all be worth it in the end. We love Abby and just don't want her to be uncomfortable.

St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T20:37:00.000-07:00

This year for St. Patrick's Day we were tricked. The Leprechaun's came to our house this year and left 7 tricks for our kids to find. First they all woke up to find green streamers all over there rooms. All the doorways were blocked with an x made of streamers. The chairs were on the table, the lamp shades were upside down, the furniture was flipped over, the milk was green, the bathroom mirror had a message written with green tooth paste, "LUCKY DAY," the kids shoes were in the oven, and they had a green breakfast. There was a pot filled with green treats on the kitchen counter. We had a silly string battle after school and the kids colored St. Patrick's Day coloring pages. It was such a fun day. The kids hope that next year we get tricked even more.

Brynlee the sweetest baby!!!

2010-01-21T21:56:00.000-08:00

Brynlee is such a sweet baby. I need to blog more so I can remember the wonderful things she does. I am loving life and being a mother of five beautiful children. We love our new home and I am going to try and be better about blogging.

over-load

2009-11-10T20:07:00.000-08:00

Today I did nothing. I went to Cassie's house and let the kids play. It was great to just stop and sit and relax. I don't think that I will ever move again. This has been the biggest pain and the most stressful situation. We sold our house in one week, but the closing process is a nightmare. I am so grateful that we went with Serge for our loan we have had such a easy time. The people who are buying our house have had such a run around which causes us to have a run around. We are living out of boxes in our own home because the closing date keeps changing. We are sleeping on the mattress on the floor, the kids think that it is great. And it actually hasn't been bad with sleeping it just that I have packed all the pots and pans and things like that. Anyway I hope that we close soon so our house we are buying doesn't get messed up.

SOLD!

2009-09-28T22:28:00.000-07:00

Well, we listed our house on KSL last Friday and had an offer on our house this Friday. I guess we really are going to move. I have mixed emotions. Ten years is a long time to live in a house. We have had all our children here. Amy and Matt live down the street. But I do believe that this is the right thing for our family.

Daddy's helper

2009-09-20T22:20:00.000-07:00

Dan took off two weeks to help out at home. I think that Abby has become part of his shadow. She has really missed him since he has gone back to work. And I have also. It was so nice having him home.

Soccer Saturdays!!!

2009-09-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

We are a crazy soccer family. We have three teams this year. The boys are loving to play and doing a great job. Britton is playing so well, his first game he scored 2 goals and played great. He is very fast and also very aggressive. Bryson is also doing great. He scored 1 goal yesterday and is really getting into the game. This year the treats aren't Brysons main focus. And for Parker this is his first year. Dan is his coach and Ethan is on his team. Parker scored 3 goals yesterday and had a lot of fun. Abby is a really good sport. She yells for the boys and asks when is it her turn.

A few pictures

2009-09-20T21:57:00.000-07:00

Brynlee sleeping the day away. She is an amazing baby. She looks so much different, every day her little face changes. She is getting her first bath in the sink. I love it when the belly button is healed. Abby wanted to help wash her and did a great job.

Brynlee is liking the binkie. And the last picture is her first day of church.

Brynlee Lyn Gardner

2009-08-27T21:45:00.000-07:00

Brynlee Lyn is here. She was born on August 27th. She weighed 8lbs. 4oz. It was a great delivery, I wish the others would have come as quickly. I got to the hospital at 4:30pm and checked in and got up to labor and delivery at 5:00pm. She was born at 8:21pm and probably would have come an hour early if my doctor would have been there. We are so grateful she is here and is healthy and absolutely beautiful.

Nesting!

2009-08-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

Cleaning, cleaning, and more cleaning. I think I've almost got everything done. I've made my checklist and I only have 5 to go. I have done walls, baseboards, ceilings, lights, blinds, windows, touch up painting all throughout the house, re-finished my kitchen cabinets, got the carpet clean, and organizing all the cupboards, drawers and closets. My house feels so much better. When you only have 1100 sq ft house with 7 people you have to find a place for everything. I love my little house.

Summer Fun!!!

2009-08-16T08:09:00.000-07:00

We have had such a fun summer. We have gone camping to the most beautiful spot. It was North Fork campground and the stream ran through the back of the camp site. There was also a waterfall to hike up to. We had such a fun time. The Parkins and the Sandbergs came with us and all the kids had fun building a dam in the stream, making swords, exploring and just playing together. We been swimming a ton. We went to Bear Lake over Raspberry Days. That was a lot of fun. The kids loved floating in there tubes and playing in the sand. We've been to the movies, the park, and lots of play dates with the cousins.

A trip to Island Park

2009-07-16T07:13:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Island Park. We went with Keith's family. We stayed in Sherrie's family cabin. We had such a fun time. The kids loved playing outside and exploring and playing on the dock. They made fishing poles and used candy fish as there bait. We went to the most beautiful waterfall, and went to see the movie The Bears at the IMAX movie theater in Yellowstone. We went to feed the fish, and the fish were huge. While standing on the brigde to look at the fish a little boy dropped his flip flop and it went down the river. The family just laughed and watched it float away, but then a muskrat swam out and got it and took it back to its home. I thought that that was pretty funny. We rafted down the river. I wish I could have had a sound piece with me to let people listen to the giggles that filled our raft. Parker and Abby giggled every time we hit the white water. We had such a wonderful time. It was very relaxing and the kids were able to just play, play, play. Thanks Keith and Sherrie for the great weekend.

Happy 4th Birthday PARKER!!!

2009-07-14T07:04:00.000-07:00

Today is Parker's birthday and he is so excited. He has been planning his birthday for over a month. He woke up and saw the kitchen decorated and was so excited that this time it was for him. He picked to have cinnamon rolls for breakfast and watch transformers the cartoon while I set up the backyard. We filled up the swimming pools and filled 110 water balloons. We invited the cousins over for a party at 11:00. They swam and had a water balloon fight, potato sack races, and we made some goodie bags with water toys inside. We had hot dogs and cupcakes and then he got to open his presents. It was such a fun party and the kids all had so much fun. The kids swam until 3:00 and then we went inside and Parker wanted to play with some of his new toys so he played play doh and moon sand. Then when Dan got home from work we went to McDonald's for dinner. Little kids are so easy to please. After dinner we went on a bike ride on the new trail and then came back to open presents from mom and dad. Parker had such a fun day. We are so grateful he is apart of our family. We love you, Parker.

Britton's baptism day

2009-07-11T20:52:00.000-07:00

Britton got baptized today. It was such a perfect day. Britton got baptized with Victoria. Britton and Victoria have always lived by each other. So today was great to be able to share it with each other. It was a Stake baptism so their were 4 kids to be baptized. A priest from our ward gave the talk on baptism and did a great job. Then Britton and Victoria sang a duet My Baptism Day. They did such a great job. It sounded so beautiful. Then one of the grandfathers gave a talk on the Holy Ghost. Then the baptisms began. Britton was second. Britton had such a smile on his face. After he came up for the water he gave everyone a thumbs up. Then we waited and watched Victoria be baptized. She had to be baptized twice. Then it was time for Britton to receive the Holy Ghost. Britton asked all the priesthood holders himself if they would join the circle. We had so much support from our family. Britton's circle had Dan, Grandpa McCormack, Grandpa Gardner, Grandpa Anderson, Uncle Paul, Uncle Matt, Uncle Ben, Uncle Mike, Uncle Dave, Uncle Brent, Uncle Brant, Uncle Keith, Landon, and the Bishop. The blessing was beautiful. Then I was asked to bear my testimony which wasn't very easy because I was very emotional. The primary also took some time and organized a folder with the testimonies of all those who came to the baptism. After the baptism was over we went to the Bowery and had dinner. Victoria's family and our family joined together for dinner. We got pizza and had salads and desserts. The kids were able to play in the grass. Britton got lots of fun things from many different people. He got scriptures, a hymn book, scripture case, church games, a baptism pillow case, tie tacs, church games, books and a few other fun things. It was such a great day. Thanks to everyone who supported Britton in his great day. We love you Britton and are so proud of the choice that you made.

Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House

2009-07-10T20:37:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple open house. We haven't taken the kids to an open house before and they were so excited to go inside for the first time. We had tickets for the 11:30 session. We got to ride in a golf cart from the car to the tents. Parker thought that was really cool. Then we watched the movie and got to go inside. We were really lucky because all of the lines were really short. Once getting inside the boys were so excited. They loved the oxen around the font. Bryson and Parker asked if they could be baptized in the font. They also loved the star chandelier in the celestal room. The other favorites of the day were the mirrors in the sealing room and all the pictures of Christ. It was the best experience.
Later that night Dan and I got to go on a date with Britton. We decided that the day before the kids get baptized we would take them out on a special date. So Britton picked Tepanyaki. He loved the onion volcano and the chief did so many fun tricks. He enjoyed the food and they gave him some kids chop sticks that were rubber band together and he ate whole meal with the chop sticks. He wants to go back for his birthday next year. Then we took him to get a new outfit for the baptism. And then went to the batting cages. Britton and Dan did a great job hitting. Then we went and got some treats to take home. Once we got home Britton rode his bike for about an hour. It was such a fun day. Thanks Britton for being such a wonderful boy.

Layton Surf N Swim

2009-07-09T20:22:00.000-07:00

Each pay check we pay for Surf "N" Swim passes and we never use them. We were going to go for Abby's birthday but it rained so that got cancelled. The kids asked me to promise to take them this week and today was the last day I could. So we packed some snacks, sun block, and I hoped for the best. The kids were so good. I was really worried how hard it would be to watch four kids and have a good time while doing so(I'm not very fast these days with my big belly, 8 weeks left). The kids loved the wave pool and floating around on the tubes. Someone had an accident in the wave pool, so we went to swim in the small pools. Britton had a lot of fun jumping off the diving board. He did great, and practiced his swimming skills. Abby loved the little pool. Bryson and Parker swam around and Bryson swam without floaties. We had such a great day the kids can't wait to go back.

A day of running

2009-07-08T20:15:00.000-07:00

Today we ran around like crazy people. We went to the dollar show at Tinseltown. On Tuesday and Wednesdays Tinseltown shows old movies for a dollar. So today we went and saw Horton Hears A Who. The kids love going to the movies. The movie started at 10:00, so we left at 9:30 to be sure to get a seat. Then we came home and made treats for activity days. Then we all went to activity days the boys don't really like to go but sometimes their is no way around it. Then Britton had Pack Meeting for scouts. They had a bar'b'que at the Stake Center and the whole family was invited. We roasted hot dogs over the fire and had a nice dinner. Then the boys got to fish for their awards. And last they had some bike races. Britton had a lot of fun with the scouts. Bryson, Parker and Abby had fun playing on their scooters and running around. It was a busy day but really fun.

Tuesday fun

2009-07-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Today we had a really fun day with Keith's family and Lisa's family. Sherrie and Lisa brought the kids over to swim. The kids swam in the pools and played water hop scotch. Then Mike, Gayle, Mom, and Dad came over so Mike could get a blessing for his treatment the next day. Lisa brought dinner with her and we had tacos. Thanks for the yummy dinner. Then we all went up to the Ogden Raptors baseball game. It was a fun game. The boys loved the game and had a lot of fun with their cousins.

Happy 34th Birthday Dan!

2009-07-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate the birthday of the greatest husband and father. We love our dad so much. He is such a wonderful example to his kids and they look so forward to dad's days off. We are grateful for all the hard work that he puts forth to bless and provide for our family. I'm grateful for the sacrifices he makes so I have the opportunity to stay home with the kids. Happy Birthday, Dan we love you.
Dan asked that him and I could go out to dinner alone. So my parents watched the kids. Thanks mom and dad. We went to Holy Smoke for dinner. Dan loved it. Then we went birthday shopping and Dan picked out what he wanted. So no surprises this year. Then we went back to my parents house and had peach coobler and ice cream and my dad put on a great firework show. The kids all had a blast.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T17:29:00.000-07:00

Wow, just thinking about the day makes my feet hurt. We had such a great day. The 4th is always fun but Dan always has to work from 8:30am - 11:30pm. He gets a break in the middle of the day but misses out on all the fun. We started the day by going to the Layton Parade. Dan is always in the parade so the kids think that its fun to see him in it. Then we have lunch at the Police Department. Then we went to my parents for a bar'b'que. My mom made it so fun. She had games for the kids to play and had prizes. She set up some swimming pools, had squirt guns, bubbles, and water balloons for the kids. We celebrated Abby and Dans birthdays and had ice cream cones. Then we went to the Layton fireworks. It was really a great show. All the kids fell asleep at one time during the show, but were awake for the grand finale and loved it. They had there glow necklaces and treats and loads of fun.

Happy Birthday Abby!!!

2009-07-02T17:15:00.000-07:00

Abby turned 2 today. I can't believe a whole year has pasted so quickly. She is such a sweet little girl. She loves to play with dolls, bubbles, her play jewelry, read books, singing songs, pushing her baby in the stroller, ride Parker's scooter, watch the movie Bolt, play dinner time, color or do stickers. She is a great blessing in our home and we all love her so much.
Today for Abby's birthday we decorated the kitchen with a happy birthday sign and hung up balloons and streamers. She watched Bolt right when she woke up. For breakfast we went to the Donut Shop, then we got two loaves of bread and fed the ducks at the park. Then we played at the park. Then we came home and blew bubbles and filled up water balloons. Abby loved the water balloons. Then it was naptime and we were suppose to go swimming at Surf and Swim but it started raining so we went to dinner instead. Then the family all came over because Kevin got his mission call. She we sat around the phone to listen to him read the letter. He was called to serve in the St. Petersburg, Russia Mission. We were so excited for him and happy to be able to listen to his reaction and be apart of his special day. Then we had cake and ice cream. I made a Bolt cake and Abby loved it. Then Abby finally got to open her presents. She got a princess scooter, and a baby bed, a snow white dress up outfit, and a little princess cd player. She had a fun day. I am so grateful I get to be her mom.

A perfect summer day

2009-07-01T17:08:00.000-07:00

We had a great summer day. We bought two swimming pools for the kids and filled them up with water at 7:30am so they had a little time to warm up. Then we called the cousins to come play for a day of fun. The kids played so good together and ran around played in the pools, we set up a water hop scotch pad and they had popcicles. Then after those cousins left Dillion a different cousin came over for a few hours and he brought crafts with him for the kids to make. They made airplanes and masks and had a great time. Then that night Dan was gone at Young Men's so we all cuddled in my bed and watched a movie. It was a perfect summer day. I hope the sunshine stays so we can have a lot more days like this.

Family Night with the Parkins

2009-06-30T17:03:00.000-07:00

Matt and Amy invited us for family home evening tonight. It was such a great night. The kids had a blast. Matt started with the lesson and gave a great object lesson on repentance and the Atonement. He showed the clear glass of liquid and then you add food coloring to represent sin and then add bleach to represent to Atonement. The kids loved the lesson and really understood the meaning. Then we roasted marshmallows on their new fire pit and the kids played in a tent that was set up in the yard. It was a great night. Thanks Matt and Amy for the invite.

Hometown Heros

2009-06-29T16:51:00.000-07:00

Every year we have the opportunity to go to the park and listen to the different choirs and bands salute the armed forces. It is a great night to help remind us what the 4th of July is really about and remember all those who have served and those who are currently serving. This year Dan dropped me off and took the kids to Spencer's birthday so I was able to just sit and relax and enjoy the night. The city also salutes 5 hometown heros. But the best part of the night is the last group. It is the Men of Song. Grandpa Anderson is in the group and has been for years. They always do such a great job. This year after they sang the Salute to the Armed Forces the audience gave them a standing ovation. It was the best part of the entire night. I am so proud of my Grandfather, my Father, and my brother Brian for they dedication and sacrifice they have made, when serving our country. I am so proud to be an American and feel blessed to live in a land with so many opportunities.

Camping

2009-06-26T17:50:00.000-07:00

We had such a great weekend. We went camping in North Fork. We left during the crazy rain strom and couldn't find a camping site at Anderson Cove or South Fork so we went a little further to North Fork. It was so beautiful, the rain had stopped and the ground was dry. The boys were able to play and explore and be the little adventures they always desire, and Abby was right along side of them. We went to Pine View for the afternoon on Saturday and the kids played in the sand and loved splashing in the water. Dan made some great food in the dutch ovens and we made about a million marshmellows. It was a perfect weekend.

A weekend of Gardner Events!

2009-06-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was so much fun. We were so busy. Dan's parents celebrated 50 years of marriage. So the nine brothers and sisters planned an anniversary reception in their honor. On Thursday night the families from out of the state flew in. On Friday night we went to Barnes Park and had dinner and the kids played and we were all able to visit and have a wonderful night. On Saturday we met at the church at 4:30 to decorated for the reception. It was really nice. The tables had cowboy boots with mixed flowers and a lasso around the toe of the boot. The table cloths were bandanas red and blue with berlap underneath and a white table cloth. It was really fun. They blew up 8 wedding pictures and put them around the room. They had some re-create their wedding cake and made a back drop just like when they got married. Dan made a picture video with music and pictures. They had a lot of people come and it was such a great night to honor them. On Sunday it was Father's Day and we had Mexican Night at Robin's house. It was so nice to let the kids play again and enjoy some great food. Monday night was an attempt at Family pictures and a Bar 'b'que. I hope the pictures turn out. That is a lot of people to try and sit still and smile.
It was a great weekend of events. I love spending time with Dan's family. The kids play so well together. They got to ride the horse(even Britton). Eat homemade ice cream and play, play, play.

A note in the mail!!!

2009-06-18T18:11:00.000-07:00

I received the cutest note in the mail. It said Lisa Gardner, please join me for a night of celebration honoring 11 years of marriage. Thursday, June 18th 2009 @ 3:00pm. Please plan on returning on June 19th in the afternoon. Children are taken care of until your return. Love Dan. I have not been away with my husband for 6 years. I was so excited. You know that feel you get in your stomach when your dating, thats how I felt for weeks. We dropped our kids off at Cassie's and went to a Bed and Breakfast in Huntsville. We had reservations at Ricken Backers at the Ogden Airport. It was really yummy. The Bed and Breakfast was really cute and it was nice to have some time just the two of us. On Friday we went to the Gateway and spent the day. I am so blessed to have found such a wonderful man. I love my life and the family that we have created together.

Britton is 8!!!

2009-06-17T17:56:00.000-07:00

Britton turned 8 today. Wow, time goes by so fast. He is so much fun. He loves every sport he can try and is really good at just about everything. He is a great big brother and always concerned about me and the baby. His spirit is growing at such a young age and he already has such a hunger for the scriptures and the reasons for life. He trys to make the right choice but is already realizing the need for repentance. I love him so much and I am so proud of the boy he is.
Britton decided this year he wanted an Olympic Party. So we went to the church(it was raining of course)and played in the gym. We had a tug of war contest, a long jump, a relay race, soccer bowling, a bean bag toss, a balloon popping contest, a pinuta, and a flag making craft. I made an ice cream cake for dessert and decorated the gym in red, white and blue. It was a great party. We bought him a new soccer ball, a pitching ball thing, a pirate lego set, twister and a new outfit. He was so excited for all the events of the day. We love you Britton.

What Britton's ready for scouts?

2009-06-16T18:06:00.000-07:00

So Britton got to go to scouts for the first time. They invited him to go because it was the day before his birthday. It was a day at Camp Keisel. He had a blast. He got to go shooting, canoeing, run through an obstacle course, make a leather craft, bow and arrows, had a picnic lunch, played tug of war and many other events. He had such a fun time and is looking forward to years of scouting ahead.

BIG Boys Weekend Away!!!

2009-04-10T11:37:00.000-07:00

Dan took Britton and Bryson to the Rodeo this weekend. Parker and Abby stayed home with me. Every year Dan's parents and some of his brothers and sisters families go to the Idaho Rodeo. I would love to go but Parker and Abby just won't sit still long enough to enjoy the Rodeo. Dan split a hotel room with Keith and Spencer and the boys had a lot of fun being with their cousins. Britton loved the Rodeo and watched the entire thing start to finish, Bryson on the other hand sat restless through the first half and fell asleep during the second half. Dan really got to enjoy the second half(especially with Bryson asleep). Parker, Abby and I went exploring on the trail and had a nice spaghetti dinner and then Papa came and got us for a sleepover. We watched movies and played and had a wonderful time with Papa and Mama Mack. Papa made a great breakfast and Parker felt like the big helper all weekend. Thanks Mom and Dad.

It's a GIRL!!!

2009-03-27T08:37:00.000-07:00

We had an ultrasound last week and the doctor says its a girl. We are really excited for Abby to have a sister. Parker on the other hand says it could still turn into a boy, and Britton says he will just cut all her hair off. Bryson is happy for another sister, and I'm sure Abby will be too someday.

I have returned!!!

2009-03-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

Life has been a bit crazy the past few months. I am sixteen weeks pregnant. Surprise!!! We are so excited for this new baby to come. I have finally overcome the morning sickness. Dan has been the most patient and wonderful husband with me, I am very grateful for him and all that he does at home and work. Britton has strep and feels terrible. Bryson is trying to learn anything and everything. Parker and Abby are becoming the best playmates. Life is wonderful.

New Years Day Sledding

2009-01-01T14:07:00.000-08:00

We finally went sledding for the first time this season. We went with the Parkin Family and had a blast. Everyone had a great time.
Britton wiping out on the snow board.

Parker, Abby and Mom

Bryson climbing the hill for another run.

Dan pulling Parker and Abby around on the sled.

Matt and Ethan

Dan and Bryson vs. Matt and Ethan

Parker having so much fun. Look at the smile.

Britton trying to reach the sidewalk.

Abby wasn't so sure about sledding, but she liked to be pulled on it.

A different New Year's Eve

2008-12-31T14:20:00.000-08:00

This year for New Year's Eve we stayed home because Abby was running a fever. Dan went and rented Horton Hear's a Who. We had finger foods and played the Wii. We let the kids stay up as late as they wanted. At about 11:30pm Parker asked if he could go to bed and Bryson fell asleep at 11:45pm. Britton stayed up until the New Year and wasn't ready to go to bed after that. It was a quite night at home, but it sure was fun.

Dinner at Grandpa and Grandma Mack's

2008-12-25T14:02:00.000-08:00

We got together and had dinner and exchanged gifts. The kids had fun playing upstairs and were all very happy with all their gifts.

Look at mom she is so fun to buy for because she is always so happy with whatever she gets.

Lunchtime with Grandpa and Grandma Gardner!!!

2008-12-25T13:58:00.000-08:00

We went to Grandpa and Grandma Gardner's for lunch and had clam chowder and ham sandwiches. The kids got to see the cousins and visit the horse.
Sysco is doing great.

Christmas Morning!

2008-12-25T13:31:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning started a little late this year. Parker and Abby didn't wake up until 8:30, Britton and Bryson were so excited I thought that they would explode. Once they finally woke up we had such a great day.
Bryson opening his pirate treasurer chest.

Parker opening whack-a-mole.

Abby opening a princess phone.

Britton so excited about everything he opened.

All the presents were opened and then we found three more from Santa. Santa brought the family the Wii, controllers, and Mario Party. The kids were so excited. Thanks Santa you made the kids have the best Christmas ever.

You all are so cute.

Abby

Parker

Bryson

Britton

Christmas morning before all the kids woke up.

Christmas 2008 was one of the best Christmas's we have ever had. We had such a great month. We started our christmas countdown and read our scripture, story and song each night. We went to the lights at the Temple, the park, Syracuse, and Thanksgiving Point. We had lots of different parties for work and family. We had baking day, craft time and game day. We had a month of miracles that have touched my life forever. Thanks to everyone for helped make our christmas season so absolutely perfect.

Christmas Eve!!!

2008-12-24T13:07:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was at The Sandberg's house this year and we had such a wonderful time. We had such a nice dinner. We enjoyed singing carols, having Grandpa read Twas the Night Before Christmas, watching the kids act out the nativity and just enjoying each others company.
Enjoying dinner.

Pajama night

Sandberg Family

The McCormack Family

Mom and Dad McCormack

Grandpa and Grandma Anderson

Daddy with his sweet angel

Grandpa, Grandma and Britton all reading Twas the Night Before Chirstmas.

The kids all dressed up as the nativity

Fondue Night!!

2008-12-23T12:56:00.000-08:00

This year we decided to have a fun new night. We called it game night. We had fondue for dinner and had lots of different finger foods. Then we started with Parker and everyone got to pick a game to play. We had such a fun night. We played 123 Diego, Go Fish, Monopoly, Operation and War. Then we read the Three Trees and watched the Joy to the World dvd.

The boys all ready for the movie.

This has been such a memorable christmas season.

Bryson's preschool christmas program

2008-12-22T12:47:00.000-08:00

Bryson did such a great job. His program was so much fun to watch. He sang and danced all around. Miss Angela works really hard to make everything so special. We are so proud of Bryson and all that he has learned this year. Thanks to Grandpa and Grandma Mack, Amy, Ethan, Sarah, Cassie, Carter, Ellie and Hallie for coming and making his day so special.

Gardner Family Party

2008-12-21T14:26:00.000-08:00

Tonight was the Gardner Family Party. Britton and I couldn't go because Britton had the stomach flu. So we stayed home and played games and watched Christmas movies. Dan took Bryson, Parker and Abby to the party and had a great time. They exchanged gifts and had a lot of different kinds of food. We are so blessed to live so close to so much family.

The Laundry Helper

2008-12-20T13:05:00.000-08:00

Abby loves to help sort the laundry. This time I think that she might have gone a little to far.

Anderson Family Christmas Party 2008!

2008-12-14T12:28:00.000-08:00

Our yearly family Christmas party. We were very sad this year because the Anderson family was unable to come. We missed them. We had a nice time with all the cousins. We had the traditional ham, potatoes, green bean casserole and salads. We sand christmas carols, read a few stories and the Bull family brought the bells. The bells are always so fun to play and listen to. Thanks to everyone for the great time.
Grandpa and Grandma Anderson

Starting the program

Britton with Grandpa and Grandma Mack.

SnOw FuN!!!

2008-12-13T12:19:00.000-08:00

The snow has arrived and the kids were so excited to go out and play.

Abby loves the snow so much. She loves to eat it. She doesn't like to keep her gloves on and that is a difficult situation, but she'll learn.

Parker also loves the snow. He likes to have snowball fights and make snow angels.

Bryson enjoys the snow for about 10 minutes, then is ready to come in and have hot cocoa.

Britton loves, loves, loves the snow and would stay out all day.

Ward Christmas Party!!!

2008-12-13T12:08:00.000-08:00

Our ward Christmas party is always so much fun. We always have such a great turn out and get to visit and have a good time. The ward served us breakfast and we sang a few songs and then we have a special visitor, Santa Claus. He brings all the kids an orange and a candy cane. We have such a great ward.
Britton - 7 yrs. old

Bryson - 5 yrs. old

Parker - 3 yrs. old

Abby wouldn't have anything to do with Santa.

Police kid party!!

2008-12-06T17:02:00.000-08:00

They had a kid Christmas party at Classic Skating. All the kids had so much fun. They can skate or scooter on the skating rink. Or they can play on the blow up toys. This year they could even play lazer tag. Santa comes for a visit and brings each kid a present and a bag of goodies.

Abby didn't like Santa but she wanted a candy cane, and her present so she made the effort.

Bryson was very happy to sit with Santa.

Britton and Parker's pictures didn't turn out. They both were excited to visit with Santa. They all had a great time playing in the playland.

2008-12-05T16:52:00.000-08:00

We went to Layton Park to see the lights. The kids love to walk the lights. We all bundled up so good that not one of us got cold. The favorites were the lion, dinosaurs, and the bears. We went with Grandpa and Grandma McCormack, The Parkins, and the Sandberg's.

Papa and Mama.

All the kids

All bundled up. I think that each person had three layers on.

2008-12-04T16:43:00.000-08:00

Festival of the Trees is always such a fun night. I know that I look forward to it more than anyone in my family but it just starts the Christmas season for me. We always look for the Jazz Tree and get ideas for gingerbread houses. This Grinch Tree was one of the kids favorites.

We all loved this gingerbread house. I can't believe how creative people are.

I love gingerbread stuff so this was one of my favorite trees.

Thanks for the fun night.

Carter and Macy's birthday parties!!!

2008-11-27T16:34:00.000-08:00

Carter and Macy celebrated their birthdays on Friday night. We all got In-N-Out and had a Super Star Party. They played guess that movie and the kids acted it out. They had so much fun. Cassie and Lisa did a great job making such a fun night.

Thanksgiving Day!!!

2008-11-27T16:18:00.000-08:00

Tanksgiving day. The men all played football early in the morning in the rain and mud. Britton got to go this year and he was so excited. He had a blast. The entire family was at Julie's this year. Everyone stayed at Julie's except for Brian and Hillary. Dad, Mom, Julie, David, Kevin, Tyler, Kyle, Trevor, Megan, Michael, Lisa, Macy, Jake, Gavin, Amy, Matt, Ethan, Sarah, Cassie, Ben, Carter, Hallie, Ellie, Dan, me, Britton, Bryson, Parker, and Abby. That is 29 people all in one house. Crazy you might say but it was so fun. The kids all got along well. We played games every night and laughed until we cried.
Parker

Britton and Megan

Bryson

Abby

All the family

And more family.

30!!!

2008-11-26T16:11:00.000-08:00

I had a great 30th birthday. We went shopping and out to lunch. Thanks Amy for buying my lunch. Then we had spaghetti and had a party at Julie's house. Dan put up streamers and balloons, he found my favorite ice cream, which just happens to be at a California Store. Then we played dominos and stayed up laughing and enjoying each others company. Thanks to everyone for making it a fun night.

Girls Day!

2008-11-25T16:01:00.000-08:00

Girls day at the American Doll Store. We drove into L.A. to visit the American Doll Store. That store is amazing. They have so many fun things. I would have loved it has a little girl. Abby is a little too young for it now but maybe in the future.

The mall was so pretty.

Check out that Christmas Tree it is so tall.

Santa's house at the mall. Megan, Abby, and Sarah got to come with the girls.

2008-11-24T15:53:00.000-08:00

We went to the Rainforest Cafe for lunch with Julie, Megan and Kyle. It was such a fun time. We always pass it and look at the animals and walk through the gift shop. So this time we decided to have lunch and it was so fun. The animals move and they have a thunder storm. The food was good and such a great atmosphere.

Not the best picture, but its the moving elephant.

Britton, Megan and Bryson working on the kid meal menu activities.

Pig Tails for the first time!!!!!!!!

2008-11-24T15:49:00.000-08:00

Yes, we finally got pig tails to work. Abby held still long enough for me to get them in.

Okay, so we think she is so cute.

Night of Fun!!!

2008-11-24T15:39:00.000-08:00

On Monday night we had so much fun. Julie and David heated the spa and got a fire going in the fire pit. It was such a fun night. The kids roasted marshmallows and got to swim. Britton and Bryson would jump in the swimming pool and then hurry back to the spa and repeated the dare over and over.

The pool and spa are so awesome, look at the rock.

Getting warmed up by the fire and eating a treat.

So excited to go out and swim. We forgot Abby and Parker's swim suits so we had to create one.

This was such a memorable night.

Kung Fu Panda Party!!!

2008-11-22T15:14:00.000-08:00

We went to California for vacation and got invited to a Kung Fu Panda birthday party. The boys had so much fun. They had an instructor come and the kids had a blast watching them.

Parker

Britton

Bryson

Abby
Britton had his turn flipping the instructor

Bryson did a nice job. Look how high he flipped him.

Parker was so excited, he thought he was so strong.

The boys eating lunch.

Thanks for the invite Julie, the kids had such a great time.

Grandpa Anderson

2008-11-13T18:51:00.001-08:00

Grandpa Anderson was taken in to the emergency room for stomach pains and a really bad back ache. After many tests were taken they tests concluded that he had gall stones. He spent last night in the hospital and today they decided to take out his gall bladder. He hasn't had an surgeries before and hasn't been put out so the family has been a little uneasy about the surgery. They said the recovery will be a few days in the hospital and then home.
He is in good spirits, he said I just wish that they would get on with it.

Grandma had to give Grandpa a kiss before they rolled him off.

Grandma found her place. She found a lazy chair and she was set.

Grandpa went in for surgery at 7:00pm and the nurses said that it would take at least 2 hours. We love you Grandpa and we are praying for a quick recovery. The boys colored pictures and were sad that they couldn't give them to "Little Papa," but Grandpa loved the pictures and said to say hello to everyone far away.

Feeling Much Better!!!

2008-11-07T19:19:00.000-08:00

I had my gall bladder removed yesterday. I am feeling pretty good. I actually ate a yogurt today and I didn't feel sick, it was awesome. Thanks so much for the great gift basket(Julie, Amy, Cassie and Mom). Thanks for all the concern and thoughtfulness. Thanks especially to Dan who has done so much the last couple of months. I couldn't have asked for a better husband. He takes such good care of me. I am so grateful to have such a great family and friends. I love you all.

Sister in Christ

2008-11-05T13:21:00.000-08:00

Love from an ordinary place
Takes a soul in its embrace
Healing all the hurt inside
One by one 'til that love has filled the earth
And every heart has felt its worth
Teach us love and understanding
Lift our eyes and change our hearts
Make us one in faith and give us strength
To stand for who we are
Grant us charity and vision
As we serve and sacrifice
That we may become
Sisters in Christ
Truth fills our spirits with its light
Leads us onward through the night
Shining so the world can see
That this gift, so precious and so rare
Brings us peace beyond compare
And gives us power to live what we believe
Chorus
And we will follow Him
Give our hearts to Him
We pledge our lives to Him forever
Chorus

Happy Halloween!!!

2008-10-31T11:58:00.000-07:00

We had the best halloween. It was so much fun. The Sandberg's hosted the halloween party and did such an amazing job. We had our traditional chili and rolls and every halloween treat available it seemed. Cassie decorated the house so cute and had such cute table decorations and party supplies. The kids had a blast we played pin the nose on the pumpkin, pumpkin and ghost toss and they also played sort the beans. Everyone was a winner so they all won and prize ehich made everyone happy. Then they all went trick or treating and went to a spooky haunted house. The kids were all so brave. After trick or treating we went back to Cassie's for some more play and food. The kids all got in there halloween p.j.'s and watched halloween cartoons while the adults played the wii. Brian and Hillary brought there big screen t.v. and hooked up the wii so we could play rock band. We had so much fun we played until midnight. Thanks for the best halloween.

Abby and I dressed up as cats.

The McCormack family was dressed as The Wizard of Oz. They are so cute. They always are the best dressed. Michael was the scarecrow, Lisa was the wicked witch, Macy was Dorothy, Jake was the tin man and Gavin was the lion.

The Sandberg Family. Cassie was a witch, Carter was the dark knight batman, Hallie was tinkerbell and Ellie was a witch.

The McCormack Family. Brian was a soccer player and Hillary didn't dress up. The dogs were dressed as a pirate and a bumblebee.

The Parkin Family. Matt didn't dress up. Amy was a cowgirl, Ethan was spiderman and Sarah was a cat.

All the kids ready to go trick or treating and it started to rain. It didn't last long. It was still a nice night.

Amy on singing, Brian on guitar, and Britton on drums.

The kids all snuggled up watching halloween cartoons.

Hillary holding all three babies at once.

A day filled with fun

2008-10-30T23:05:00.000-07:00

Today has been a great day. We started the day by going to Cassie's and letting the cousins play. Then I left and went to Britton's class to help with his class halloween party. It was a lot of fun. They decorated sugar cookies, played bingo, did a cake walk and played pumpkin bowling. Then we went to the Police Station for their annual trick or treating. The kids got lots of treats and got to go to Daddy's work. Then we came home for a night of fun with mom. Dan left for an overnighter with the scouts so the kids and I planned and evening of fun. First we raked the leafs and jumped in the piles, made pizza, then we read halloween stories, then we made potions, played memory, operation, go diego go and trouble. Then we all snuggled in my bed and watched Its the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown and Which Witch is Which. It has been the best night. The kids were so good and appreciated the effort I made. Nights like this help remind me how much I love being a mom.

Pack's Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-28T22:23:00.000-07:00

The pumpkin search. Every year we get our pumpkins from Pack's. The boys love to pick their pumpkins in the fields. They enjoy riding in the wagon. I love the look of pumpkin fields.

All the cousins enjoying a night of fun together. Britton, Bryson, Parker, Abby, Carter, Hallie, Ellie, Ethan and Sarah.

You guys are so cute.

Another hay maze to conquer.

Gardner Halloween Party

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

Here are the Gardner family kids that would take a picture. Dan's family is so great they all dress up and make a fun night with Halloween. We had different soups and treats and the kids played together and we just sat around and enjoyed each other. It was a great night.

If you look close, even the dog dressed up, he is dressed as a cat.

The kids playing, the O'tooles have the best place to have a party.

Britton and Bryson showing Papa their costumes.

Bryson and Carter's last game!

2008-10-25T22:00:00.000-07:00

We had a fun weekend with Carter and Hallie. They spent the night last night and we had a fun time. It was very interesting trying to get six kids ready and out the door by 8:15am but we did it and we weren't late. It was a very cold morning but the boys did a great job. Bryson and Carter both scored a goal and had a lot of fun. Grandpa and Grandma Mack were able to come and watch the boys were so happy to have them at the game.

The team warming up.

Black Island Farm Fun!!!

2008-10-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

Black Island Farms is one of our favorite halloween traditions. We always have so much fun. The kids have fun playing in the hay maze, going down the huge slides, playing in the corn sand box, watching the animals(especially the goats because they climb stairs and the kids think that they are so silly), riding the train, bouncing in the pumpkin bounce house, making our way through the corn maze and many more events. It was a nice night the weather was great and we brought some glow braclets to keep track of the kids in the dark.
Fun in the hay maze.

Abby loves the pumpkins.

Parker riding the bull.

Brysons first attempt on the huge slide.

Gardner fun at Black Island Farms.

Never jump into a pile of leaves with a wet sucker!

2008-10-20T21:20:00.000-07:00

We love the fall time with all the leafs falling. The kids love to rake the leafs and make the biggest pile, they each take turns jumping and flipping into the leafs.

Brysons nice soft landing.

Parker loves rolling in the leafs and burying himself.

Abby loves to throw the leafs in the air.

Britton was making a leaf angel.

Fall time at the Gardner home.

Britton's last game!

2008-10-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

Britton had his last game today and only four players showed up. They played so good anyway. They played the entire game 5 on 4. They won the game 14-1 but who keeps score right. Britton was happy because he got to play the entire game and scored 6 goals. It was a great way to end the fall season.

Britton going down to score a goal.

Great season green lazers we will see you all in the spring.

Stake Conference

2008-10-18T20:46:00.000-07:00

The Saturday night session is always so nice because I actually get to listen to the speaker without wrestling a kid. I love my kids but sometimes I wonder what I get from the messages. Anyway it was a great night. They had some really great points but a few I would like to remember-
1. It is a time to step up our faith, expect miracles.
2. Faith is a choice and a decision.
3. In a world where you can be anything be yourself, but be your best self.
4. When we put God first all other things fall into place or drop out of our lives.
5. I loved this thought when Nephi got to the seashore he didn't sit down and cry and say now what? I can't build a boat. I've come all this way and suffered all these trials aren't I done yet? What do I do when I am faced with a seashore, do I give up and lose the faith or do I ask earnestly knowing I will be heard.

Gardner Village and the WITCHES!!

2008-10-17T20:28:00.000-07:00

We went to Gardner Village to check out all the witches and had a really fun night. We dressed all the kids in their halloweem costumes so they would fit right in.

Bryson wanted to shot all the witches with his cap gun.

All the kids together on the bridge over looking the witches in the row boat.

Dancing with the witches in the middle of the village.

I love these kids, they are so cute.

Britton had to be so serious all night. Check out that face.

Parker was happy to take a picture at every witch.

My favorite witch of the night.

Gardner Family Fall 2008!

Mission Get Together

2008-10-16T20:20:00.000-07:00

Dan has a mission get together every four months with some companions from New York. We get together and eat, talk and the kids play. He loves to see these guys and they all have so much in common. I think that it is so great how they have all stayed in contact with each other for so long. Thanks Paul and Megan for hosting it was a blast.

A quick picture of all the kids. They all played so good together.

Pumpkin Patch Field Trip!!

2008-10-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

Bryson's class went to the pumpkin patch today for their field trip and had a wonderful time. His teacher is so wonderful she taught them all about how pumpkins grow. They read a pumpkin story ate pumpkin seeds and got to pick a pumpkin of their own. Parker, Abby and I had a fun time to.

Here's Brysons class

Abby found her pumpkin and she was so excited.

Bryson claiming his pumpkin so no one else could get it.

Miss Angela reading the pumpkin story.

Parker swinging on the tree swing.

This was the funniest go round.

Gavin Michael McCormack

2008-10-11T21:07:00.000-07:00

We got to watch Macy, Jake and Gavin on Saturday. It was a lot of fun. I loved holding and feeding Gavin. He is such a good baby. He didn't cry one time. He is doing so much better and he is gaining some weight also.
He was just looking around and I thought his outfit was so cute. Abby was asleep so I was able to lay him on the floor without being loved to much by Abby.

Look at that cute little face.

He was getting a little sleepy.

Thanks Michael and Lisa for letting us watch the kids it was a blast.

Crazy soccer boys!!!

2008-10-11T20:51:00.000-07:00

I love Saturdays because I love to watch my boys play soccer. I get so disappointed when I hear it is going to rain because I don't want the games to be cancelled. The boys play so well and enjoy playing so much. I'm sad that the season is coming to an end.

Here's adorable Ellie trying to keep warm at Bryson and Carter's game. I think that Cassie did a great job bundling her up.

Britton battling for the ball.

Bryson getting ready for the half to start.

Bryson before we took off some of the layers. It had been raining and snowing earlier that morning.

Britton in motion. And Spencer trying to steal the ball away. Funny because he is on his team.

Both the boys played so good. Britton scored two goals and Bryson scored three. They were both very proud.

Happy 5th Birthday, Bryson!!!

2008-10-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

Bryson turned 5 today. He is such a sweet boy. He loves his preschool class and all the fun and new things that he gets to do. He has just started to read a little bit and loves his flash cards. He loves playing knights, super heros, gameboy, board games, building anything and just about anything else. He is such a great helper with Abby and is great brother to Britton and Parker also. He has such a cute smile and has a real tender heart. We love Bryson so much in our home and feel so blessed that we have him in our family.Bryson decided to go to Chuck E Cheese's for his birthday. We had such a great time. We were so happy that some of the family could come also and share in his special day. Thanks to Uncle Michael, Macy, Jake, Aunt Cassie, Carter, Hallie, Ellie, Uncle Matt, Aunt Amy, Ethan, Sarah, and Grandpa and Grandma Mack for coming to Chuck E Cheese.
We had a great day we went to the donut shop early before school, then we got hair cuts, then we went to the 5 year well check(terrible shot experience with all three kids screaming at once) then we came home and had a picnic lunch(all of Bryson's favorite foods), then naptime, finally time for Chuck E Cheese, and then back to our house for presents and ice cream sundaes. It was such a fun filled day.

Bryson had no idea what this game was but he was certain he wanted it.

His favorite present, he was so excited to finally have a dog.

Parker's favorite ride.

Britton showing the little brother who's boss.

Abby was not liking this ride, can you tell?

Bryson going for a ride.

Great haircut!!! Notice gameboy in hand, he loves that thing.

Even the night before we had to have mouse pancakes to prepare to go to Chuck E Cheese the next day. Great job on the pancakes Dad.

Dinosaurs!!!

2008-10-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

While Britton and Bryson are away to school, Parker and I get a little one on one time. The time is spent playing board games, playing hide 'n' seek, playing play doh and many more fun activities. But Parker's favorite thing to do is play dinosaurs. Today we had to set up all the dinosaurs with their families and stood them tallest to smallest. Then we went to battle. The sharp teeth always win. I love to hear, Mommy will you play dinosaurs with me, please.

Skirts, tights, and pigtails!!!

2008-09-29T20:12:00.000-07:00

I'm loving the cute trends.

The primary program

2008-09-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

Today was the primary program and Bryson did a great job on his part. His line was I can be more like Jesus by helping with my little sister. Britton's part was to sing I am a Child of God in spanish with his class and they did a wonderful job. Britton has such a sweet little singing voice I love to hear him sing. Britton and Bryson both sat very still and sang so good we were very proud of the great job they did. Parker was also asked to get up and sing. Now remember Parker is only three and he is in senior nursery. They had all the senior nursery kids come up and stand on the steps and sing I am a child of God. So Parker and Ethan go up together and Ethan starts singing and Parker decides that Ethan shouldn't be singing so he puts he hand over Ethans mouth. Then he desides that he is going to jump up and down. Parker is such a character. I'm glad that they were only involved in the program for a moment, or he might have entertained the whole ward and not in a good way.

Happy Birthday Grandma Sally

2008-09-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Grandma Sally, we love you. I love the saying, All because two people fell in love. I think of that saying when I look at Grandpa and Grandma. We have such a great family and always have such and good time together. They are such amazing examples of everything I want in my life and in my family. Thank you Grandpa ad Grandma for raising your family the way you have done.

We had a nice birthday party for Grandma at Michelle's house. It was wonderful to see all the cousins and let the kids play. Thanks Michelle for hosting the party, I know that it is hard having that many people over. We love getting together with the extended family. My boys were so excited once they realized they were going to Jeff's house.

The newest addition to the McCormack Family

2008-09-27T20:25:00.000-07:00

At Hillary's birthday party the two new additions were introducted. Brian and Hillary got two adorable puppies. They are so tiny. The kids were so excited and couldn't get enough of them. Abby loved holding them.

Parker was really careful and loved the puppies.

Bryson was wishing we could take one home with us.

Even Britton touched the puppies. Thanks Brian and Hillary for bringing the puppies, you made the kids day.

Girls Night Out!!!

2008-09-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the Women's Relief Society Broadcast. It was such a great night. I loved Elder Uchtdorf's talk. I loved the story about cooking. Dan and I have that conversation so much. He says I always can find something wrong with my meal, or an apology for the way something turned out. I loved the counsel for creating something. I want to beautify my yard and house. The story he told about the saints and coming to the valley and President Young telling the people to plant trees and crops and flowers, take what is yours and make it beautiful. I love to work in my yard but this year I have not taken the time I should with it.
After the broadcast Amy, Cassie, Mom and I went to Red Robin and had a great time. We had dinner and laughed and just enjoyed being together. We are so blessed to live so close(we miss Julie so much and its times like this that make it even harder). I love the sisterhood we have in the Relief Society and I am so glad that I am apart of the largest women's organization in the world.

Bryson's first field trip

2008-09-24T13:15:00.000-07:00

Bryson's preschool class had there first fieldtrip today and he had so much fun. They went to Hill Air Force Base Musuem. Bryson's favorite plane this time was the Batman plane. The pilots last name was Bateman so his nickname was Batman. It was a fun to see all the different planes they played an I spy game while they looked around and that made it even more fun.

This is Bryson's class, his teacher's name is Miss Angela.

Bryson's class was also able to go inside one of the helicopters he thought that was pretty cool.

Thanks to Bryson's class for being such good listeners and to Miss Angela for all the hard work she does for Bryson.

The morning routine

2008-09-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

Every morning Abby wakes up before Parker and they share a room, so I will go in and get her and close the door behind us so Parker can continue to sleep. But Abby will always find her way back into their room and climb into bed with Parker. Most of the time she will wake him up while climbing in bed but some mornings I am able to get her out without waking Parker. She is always so proud of herself. I love to see them cuddling together.

International Night with the Gardner's

2008-09-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

We always have such a great time when we get together with Dan's family. It was our turn to plan the monthly family party so we picked International Night. Brett and Emilie choose this theme a while back and we loved it so we thought we would try it again. Of course Abby got sick with a sinus infection so Abby and I were unable to go but everyone had a great time. We made an Italian dish one of my favorites that my Grandma would make. Gnocchi's with homemade spaghetti sauce. There were many different dishes German, Swedish, some seafood. The family always enjoys just being together. And of course there is always homemade ice cream.

The girls, aren't they all so cute.

Bryson's working on his balancing act.

Dan's dad Ed.

Dan's Mom Janice.

I'm sorry I missed out, can't wait for next month.