England News

SKEETER JANUARY 2012

2012-01-28T10:26:00.000-08:00

SKEETER January 2012

This is a story about our special kitty Skeeter. We received her on a hot July Sunday in the summer of 1999. Courtney had left to live in San Francisco and we were feeling lonely, again. She was a half sister to our oldest cat Mitzi. I wanted to name her Xena the Princess Warrior, but she was such a busy little kitty, that my kids named her Skeeter like a mosquito—she never stopped moving. Her nickname was Skeeter Bug.

She was so tiny that we had to bottle feed her for a couple of weeks. We were going on vacation to St. George right after we received her so we had to take her with us! What an adventure! She was so funny. She sat on the back seat on a pillow with Chelsea. We put a shoebox full of kitty litter on the floor and she would use it whenever she needed to go. She drank water from the lids of our water bottles.

We had to wait a few hours when we got to St. George before we could check into our condo. So we stopped at the park and she immediately ran into the bushes. She loved to hide in bushes and climb trees! We found out later that her mom would put her in a tree to keep her safe.

In the condo she loved running up and down the hanging vertical shades on the windows. Her most favorite thing to do was to attack and bite Casey’s toes when she was asleep. We all thought that was pretty hysterical. She was a great little traveler.

She was our third cat and was pretty much ignored by our other cats Mitzi and Sadie. She immediately bonded with us humans. She was always around. Wherever we were, she was there. Here are some examples of Skeeter’s habits:

Her Baby Mouses-She had two favorite toy mice that she would carry in her mouth meowing this weird meow and she would bring them to me. She would start at the top of the stairs and find me and drop the mouse. Then I would praise her and tell her thank you. She would be so proud and would rub up against me and purr and meow.

Bath Time-Whenever I took a bath, she had to sit on the counter with her back to me. Then I would reach up and gently pull her tail and she would meow. We played this game everytime I took a bath. Recently, she had to have a drink from the black bath cup before she would sit on the counter!

Her Pencil-She had a special pencil that we played with whenever I was on the computer. I would make her chase it and she would chew on it. She would sit under the lamp by my computer and play with and chew on that pencil.

Calling Somebody’s Name-If Skeeter was sitting by you and you had to yell for somebody in the house, she would go crazy meowing and rubbing against you. We would do it on purpose just to see her being so funny.

Music-She loved my music and would sit under my bed and watch me exercise and listen to my music.

Her favorite places to sit were by me on the bed or couch. She wasn’t a lap cat, but she had to sit and sleep right next to you. And when she was real content, she would knead you and start drooling. She loved being under the covers with me and I would have to be touching her somewhere, usually on her paws. It was very soothing to me. Sometimes it was a pain as she was a heavy cat and she wouldn’t budge when you needed to get up. She hung out under our bed most of the time. That was her domain.

Skeeter was an anxious cat. She was always real worried when I cleaned their food and water dishes and whenever I cleaned their catboxes! She had her own special water dish in our bathroom and she would sit on my bed and watch me clean that bathroom until her water dish was put back in its place.

She loved kitty treats and tuna fish. Anytime I used the can opener she would come running to the kitchen checking it out. She loved chewing and playing with sticks and she would go in circles playing with the stick. She loved chewing the grass plant in the backyard and hiding in the bushes. But she would only go outside if the screendoor was open. As soon as I would close the screen door she would pop up at the door and start meowing.

Skeeter was a perfect cat. She was never sick. She never ever had an accident on the floor. She didn’t throw up hairballs. She didn’t shed. She just loved being with us. She would follow me around the house watching me vacuuming, cleaning, etc. She was always there watching me. She was the only cat that greeted us when we got home every day.

The spring of 2010 she had lost two pounds when she had her annual checkup. We ran tests on her and she was diagnosed with kidney disease. She was put on a special food and we hoped for the best. She had a great last year and seemed to be very healthy and happy. Then recently she started to lose weight again and her last week she stopped eating. She wasn’t playing any of her games and she wasn’t purring anymore. My last nap with her on that Monday as she was laying with me on the bed, she wasn’t purring! I knew she was in bad shape. And she had started sitting right on top of our heat vent like she couldn’t get warm enough.

It was time for her annual checkup. I had a really bad feeling about it. I felt so badly as she really fought me getting her into the cat carrier—like she knew. When Dr. Kanda ran tests on her, it was confirmed that she was a very sick kitty. I could have put her in the hospital for IV fluids, but I knew she would be so scared and anxious in the hospital without us there with her. No amount of money or medication would have healed her.

Once a cat is diagnosed with kidney disease, there really is nothing that can be done to save their lives. You can prolong their lives, but it wouldn’t be a happy life doing the things they like.

We made the decision to have her put to sleep. It was the hardest decision I have ever had to make. Holding her and watching her slip away was so painful. Just before she died, she lifted her head up and licked my cheek. I will treasure that lick forever as she never licked me before.

She had a good life and was very much loved. We miss her everyday. It is very lonely and quiet in the house without her. I never realized what a comfort she was to me and how much love and joy she brought into our house.

We miss her and love her.

Skeeter - I hope you are having fun running in heaven and hiding in trees again!

Skeeter Bug
1999 - 2012

RUSSELL

2011-12-08T18:14:00.000-08:00

On March 18th, 2010, we lost our sweet nephew Russell Davis at the age of 27. I have been procrastinating this post for obvious reasons. This was one of the saddest events that our family has had to ever endure. It has been very hard to watch my sister and her husband go through the pain of losing their youngest son.

Here is his niece Jordan saying goodbye to her Uncle Russ at the night of his viewing

The next day at the funeral with his family all around him.

The cemetery friends and family.

Grandma Laura, neighbor Ed Hall, and Russell's nephew Ayden (Jackie's son) at the luncheon after the funeral and cemetery.

Goodbye Russell. We love you and miss you everyday!

MARCH 2010 ANNIVERSARY/PAIGEY 2ND BIRTH

2011-11-25T19:44:00.000-08:00

On March 17th, 2010, Bob and I celebrated our 40th Wedding Anniversary. Our children had a party for us at Courtney's house. Here is a picture of us and our children.

We also celebrated Paigey's Second birthday on that same night:

Here's the grandkids eating the yummy lasagna!

The family hanging around.

2011 HALLOWEEN

2011-11-08T13:25:00.001-08:00

Courtney invited me to her house for Halloween to have some homemade chili and help with the Trick or Treaters:
I know this picture is fuzzy. We couldn't get the kids to be still for this picture. Lukas if Captain America and Milo is the lion! So cute and no shoes!

Some old ugly witch showed up and took my place. Lukas didn't like this witch very much-ha!

I don't which is scarier, her makeup or her many necks! Ugh!

Well, this post wraps up the many events of October this year. It was a fun time with lots of activities with my adorable grandkids!

Get ready for November!!!

JULY 13, 2010! PAUL MCCARTNEY!

2011-11-07T17:12:00.000-08:00

This post is just a little past due! It was such a great experience that I just had to share. Bob and I went to the Paul McCartney concert on July 13th, 2010, at the Rio Tinto Soccer Stadium in Sandy, UT. It was a hot muggy night and he was about 1 1/2 hours late performing, but it worked out fine, as the weather cooled down and it became overcast. It was an awesome event. And I must say that the seating in that stadium is much more comfortable than many other concert venues in this valley.

Bob & I (It was a Tuesday night and we had had a long day.)

The Stage

All the People

The Big Screen

McCartney Singing!

His last song was "Live and Let Die" and the song was embellished with a very entertaining firework display.

He put on a great and entertaining performance with a lot of enthusiasm and humor. He seemed like just a young kid, not a 72 year old man!

Bob and I grew up with the Beatles. We never in a million years would have thought that Paul McCartney would perform in Sandy, UT, and that we would see him in person. Even though he was far away, it was a great concert. It was almost magical! It brought back many fond memories of our teenage years and our youth.

FRIGHTMARES 0CT 2011

2011-11-05T17:58:00.001-07:00

On a beautiful Friday afternoon, October 21, 2011, I had the pleasure of going to Lagoon's Frightmares with Courtney, Lukas and Milo. Here are some the fun pictures of that day!

Whose Who???

Here's the boys riding some of the rides!

Lukas and I played a squirt gun game and Lukas won!

Here is Milo sitting on the stool watching us play the game!

We walked through the little hay maze! Milo proceeded to pick up one of the pumpkins! Look how strong he is! The employee had to bribe Milo with some candy so that he would give back the pumpkin. We were laughing! He is such a nut.

TWINS

2011-10-31T14:03:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, October 22nd, we went to dinner with Christen/Brady and the twins to their favorite Mexican restaurant in Heber! Here are the twins finishing up their dinner. They love Mexican food! They just ate up their burritos, beans and rice.

The next morning we went to the Farmer's Market at Wheeler Farm for breakfast and some shopping for fresh food! Then we fed the geese. Gage and Caleb love the animals and especially these geese. The geese are really big and noisy.

If they know you have bread for them, they practically attack you! So funny!

We are sad to see this beautiful fall weather come to a close and it was fun to get outdoors and enjoy it for one last time. Gage and Caleb are so much fun to be with and they are really entertaining!

THE CORN MAZE

2011-10-24T17:57:00.001-07:00

On a soggy Saturday night on October 8th, I took my two special grandsons Gibson and Carter on a date to the Artic Circle and the Corn Maze. These two are such good friends and have so much fun together.

Here is Gibson and Carter being silly at the Artic Circle with the "Eyes" they received in their Kids Meals!

Trying to find our way through the Corn Maze. We got lost several times and the map was of no help at all! But we survived.

After we finally exited the Corn Maze the boys climbed the rock wall set up there. Note their muddy shoes and pants! It was a muddy mess in the Corn Maze!

Carter

Gibson

It is hard to get these guys together as they are getting older and more involved in other activities. I love my dates with my two special grandsons. Love them to death!

ST. GEORGE MARATHON

2011-10-24T17:29:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, 10/01/11, Courtney ran in the St. George Marathon. She ran a respectful 4 hour and 45 minute race! Not bad for a first marathon. Here are a few random photos of our weekend with the Hancock's!

This was the night before the race. Lukas and Milo waiting patiently in the Convention Center with Grandpa Bob and Uncle Gene while Courtney picked up her race packet.

Then Lukas was climbing the rock outside Iggy's after dinner. We had to go to Iggy's to watch the Utah State vs BYU football game during dinner. We were all cheering for the Aggies!

The last stretch!

Coming from the Finish Line!

I did it! She looks a little glazed!

Milo was worn out after all the excitement of the Marathon Day. He fell asleep on Daryl while waiting for dinner.

Then he moved to Mom. He would have slept all through dinner if there hadn't been a birthday boy at the next table. The servers sang and danced and that woke up Milo!
The Texas Roadhouse is not the quietest of restaurants!

We had a great time with the Hancock's. Lukas had a sleepover in our motel room and he thought that was pretty neat. The weather was wonderful and it was a fun fun weekend!

And we are very proud of Courtney. This is a big accomplishment and takes a lot of willpower to make it happen!

BLOGGING FOR THE PAST YEAR

2011-08-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

It will be almost one year since I posted any new blogs. I have many many pictures from the past year. Unfortunately, due to my mistake some priceless pictures were deleted. I will pick and choose some random important pictures from the last year. I have missed blogging.

Here are a couple of pictures of beautiful flowers that were blooming in Park City last summer, 2010, when we went to dinner with the Battaglia's.

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FISHING ON YELLOWSTONE LAKE

2011-08-15T19:21:00.001-07:00

We just returned from a vacation with Courtney & Daryl and family visiting Yellowstone and Jackson Hole. We went fishing on our first day in Yellowstone on Yellowstone Lake. Here is Daryl and Bob admiring the two fish that Bob caught.

PARKER PRESTON ENGLAND

2011-08-15T19:10:00.000-07:00

Parker Preston England arrived on Tuesday, 08/02/11, at 2:45 PM. He is the son of Corbin and Casey. This is our 9th Granchild!

Here he is just minutes after being born. He weighed in at 7 lbs 5 oz and 19 1/2 inches long.

Proud Grandma England holding with help from big sister Paigey.

Proud grandpa! Parker is a very beautiful baby and looks just like his big brother Carter.

Welcome to the family, Parker! We love you!

THE 24TH OF JULY-SWIMMING AT CHELSEA'S

2010-07-29T19:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 24th, we had a swimming party at Chelsea's. It was great fun, inspite of Bob and I eating our Egg Salad Sandwiches for our lunch!

Sweetie Paigey!

Me & Milo!

Cutie Milo!

Carter & Gibson hamming it up for Chelsea! Funny boys!

THE BOYS HAVE ARRIVED!

2010-07-29T17:52:00.001-07:00

I apologize that I have been so delinquent on my blog--but it was a rough winter, for me, anyway. So my last blog was announcing the surprise that Christen was having twins--and well, here they are! Caleb Edward and Gage Robert were born on July 19th within 30 minutes of each other. Caleb weighed in at 6lb 7oz and Gage weighed in at 6lb 3oz. Caleb has blonde hair and Gage has dark hair. They do not look alike--but they both resemble their big brother.

Day one 7/19/2010:

With a very happy grandma!

With a very happy grandma and big brother!

With a very happy Aunt Chelsea!

With a very happy Daddy & Big Brother!

Gibson holding Caleb for the first time!

Day Two--

Great Aunt Margo(holding Gage)and Grandma(holding Caleb). My sister happened to be in town for the Larson Family Reunion. She lives in California. She was here for Thanksgiving when Courtney had Milo as well. I wonder when she is coming into town again--hummmm?!

Chelsea happened to be in their room when the hospital photographer was there and was able to snap these priceless pictures! Caleb & Gage--

Gage --

Gage again closer--

As a comparison on the size of these little guys we placed Gage next to one my Cabbage Patch Dolls--funny, huh? Caleb was still feeding!

We are extremely blessed to have two such beautiful and healthy boys. Christen takes very good care of herself when she is pregnant and this delivery was easier than Gibson's. She is a great mommy, too. This will be a challenge, but as we know, these little ones grow up very fast!

Congratulations Christen & Brady--great job!

WE'RE HAVING TWINS!

2010-01-19T18:43:00.000-08:00

Christen, Brady, and Gibson visited me this afternoon. Christen had an ultra-sound performed today and they wanted to show me the results! It took me a while--but then I noticed TWO BABIES! Wow, are we surprised and excited. The twins will probably be born in July now instead of August's original due date! Good luck and congratulations! That will be SEVEN grandchildren for Bob and I! I used this picture to try to remember what summer looked like!

IN & OUT BURGER BIRTHDAY -- CARTER!

2010-01-13T15:40:00.001-08:00

It our second grandson's birthday on 01/13/10! He will be six years old! We wanted to see him for his birthday as Bob will be leaving for his big adventure on Friday, so we met Corbin, Casey, Carter, and Paigey at the new In & Out Burger out on the west side by their house. We left our house at 3:30 PM and finally arrived there at 5PM with all the traffic--ha ha! At least we didn't have to pack a lunch this time as were going to be eating at In & Out Burger-ha!

For your birthday at In & Out Burger they give you this special hat! Cute Carter!

As Paigey drank all the chocolate shake, I gave Carter some money to buy his own shake all by himself! However, I had to wrestle him to the floor to get my $3 in change! I need those dollar bills for the drink machine at work-jeez!

Paigey got some little gifts from Grandma to keep her busy.

Paigey eating her cheeseburger (no meat).

Corbin, Grandpa, and Carter. Carter eats the entire cheeseburger at In & Out Burger--he loves them!

Grandma with Carter & Paigey!

It was a fun night and we are very proud of our little Carter. He is alot of fun! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CARTER!!

2010 NEW YEAR'S EVE

2010-01-13T15:19:00.001-08:00

So, a week later on New Year's Eve, we were celebrating again. Bob and I were planning on taking Gibson & Carter out for pizza and then coming to our house for a sleepover--well, Casey was alone as Corbin was working, Chelsea wasn't doing anything until later in the evening, and Courtney and Daryl were just bored with being home with two little boys all week--so we all went to the Pie for pizza. Brady and Christen were invited, but Christen was too sick to go out! We missed them!

Courtney, Lukas, & Daryl--Milo was hiding there somewhere all cuddled up in his carseat all snug as a bug in his blankets!

Casey, Paigey, and Chelsea. Paigey and Chelsea were getting ready to say the blessing on the food-ha!

Bob, Chelsea, and Casey

Hey a picture of us! Bob and Colleen!

Gibson and Carter eating their pizza. They are so cute together. They sat at their own table and just chatted and ate like a couple of old men. But that was all about....

...to change.

After dinner, we took Gibson and Carter home for a sleepover in their new sleeping bags that they received from us (their favorite gifts-NOT!). I taught them how to play UNO. We played one game and ate chips and dip. Then they informed me that it was not their "bath" night, so they didn't need a bath. So they put on their jammies and wanted a snack. They had some ice cream with chocolate sauce. Then we read stories and I tucked them in. We could hear them talking and laughing for about an hour. Then it got all quiet at about 10 PM! They went to sleep!

So I guess they got hungry and got up in the night to get a snack. Carter got an apple out of the fridge and Gibson got some Ritz crackers out of the pantry--wow, what great snacks. Of course, Bob and I were oblivious to any of this.

For breakfast, Bob made them French toast (They got up at 6 AM!) They had a great time and were two very tired little boys for the rest of the day.

Oh by the way, do six year old boys know the difference between an empty kleenex box and the toilet? I don't think so! Pretty funny!

We might have them again next year for New Year's if their parents will let us!

2009 CHRISTMAS EVE GRANDMA'S HOUSE

2010-01-13T14:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was a great time at Grandma's house this year. We were very blessed to have all of our children (& their spouses & fiance's)and all of our grandchildren at our house at the same time.

Preparations started earlier in the month when I rearranged the furniture in the Family Room to make more room for everyone.

The night before Christmas Eve Day, I prepared and stuffed the turkey and placed it in the refrigerator. Christen came over the next morning and placed it in the oven for me. Bob and I both had to work, so that worked out well. Of course, I could have just asked UPS for a couple of hours off early---YEAH RIGHT!?

Here are some pictures of the adults at the party--no pictures of Bob and I, but I think my kids took pictures, too!

Corbin and Casey--don't they just look so happy! Paigey is trying to get Casey's attention and I don't know what Corbin is looking at!

Here's Brady, Christen, and Daryl on the couch:

Here is Courtney (looking very sleep deprived due to having a 4 week old baby and a an 18 month old)and Casey:

Here's my girls! (& two grandkids)What a great looking group!

The three Musketeers--Gibson, Carter, & Brookie. We didn't see much of them that night as they were playing upstairs. In fact, the adults actually got to eat dinner without these three--worked out very well!

Paigey holding her new little baby cousin, Milo.

The two brothers-Lukas & Milo!

Chelsea holding Paigey:

Lukas opening a present:

Carter trying to get Paigey's "Jack in the Box". It was the hit of the night!

Our Special Guest for dinner--Ha!

At the end of the night, the kids all opened their gifts which contained their PJ's made by Aunt Casey! The England kids and Gibson all got Ute PJ's and Brookie got HS Musical! They loved them and they were so so cute. Thanks Aunt Casey!

The Grand Finale for the night was all of us sitting around watching Milo getting his diaper changed and dressed in his Christmas PJ's! Courtney & Daryl call him "Chubbers"! What a cutie. Next year we will have another new little baby in our family!

All in all, it was a great night. It was the best Christmas Eve ever! And it was not too hot in the family room for Daryl.

GIBSON'S SCHOOL CHRISTMAS PRGRAM

2010-01-12T14:46:00.000-08:00

On December 17th, Gibson's class at school performed a Christmas program. I apologize as my pictures didn't turn out too well for some reason. Here is Gibson singing! I also couldn't get any closer as everytime I tried to get closer I got dirty looks from the other parents! Oh, Well!

He had a "speaking" part in the program and he is walking back to his seat.

Gibson was being annoyed by the very loud and busy girls in his class. He was the most handsome boy there and did a great job! We are very proud of him and all his accomplishments.

Miscellaneous

2010-01-12T14:29:00.001-08:00

Sometime in October, Casey, Courtney, Carter & Paigey came over for a visit. And I am sure that Lukas was there, too. Chelsea took these pictures and I didn't get all of them downloaded.

Courtney & Paigey --Before Milo

Brookie & Carter

Another Grandchild on the Way!

2009-12-26T14:23:00.000-08:00

We received some exciting news this Christmas Season! My daughter Christen and her husband, Brady, are expecting a second child in August! Big brother Gibson is very excited! CONGRATULATIONS!

GIBSON'S CHRISTMAS CARD TO GRANDMA

2009-12-14T18:29:00.001-08:00

Gibson made this Christmas card all by himself last week. Not bad for a six year old! It just warmed my heart! Nothing like grandkids!

LUKAS AT MCDONALD'S WITH GRANDMA

2009-12-14T18:23:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday, Courtney, Lukas, Milo, and myself went on an outing to McDonald's. As we walked in, Courtney said--So this is where all the moms and their kids hang out during the day! Lukas was so cute. He really wasn't that interested in "playing" on the toys. He just enjoyed watching all the other kids. We were so excited to have him eat something. Here he is dunking one French fry in ketchup and the other one in ranch dip! And he drank almost all of his chocolate milk and actually ate some chicken nuggets. It was quite the adventure for us all!

BABY MILO IN HIS CARSEAT

2009-12-08T15:32:00.001-08:00

Last week when I was at Courtney's helping her out, we went to Lukas's daycare to pick him up. Here is baby Milo in his carseat. I don't know, but I think that his expression looks just like Courtney's "grumpy" face. I know he definitely has her cry! But, he is a sweetie cutiepie! We love him anyway!

MY BIG CATS

2009-12-08T15:28:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday, as I was cleaning my family room, my cats Skeeter & Sadie were sitting together so cutely in the window trying to absorb some warmth from the winter sun! By the way, these are my two bed buddies--ugh! My own personal heaters at night!

SUNDAY, 08/23/09

2009-12-08T14:52:00.000-08:00

As there were no church meetings on this day due to the Temple Dedication, we decided to drive up to Park City and over Guardsman's Pass. It was extremely windy on top. Here is Bob--I accidentally deleted me. Picture me with my hair blowing all over the place! It was a great drive and the views were fantastic!

DEPECHE MODE CONCERT 08/25/09

2009-12-08T14:51:00.000-08:00

For my birthday, Courtney bought me a ticket to the Depeche Mode on Tues,08/25/09.
Iwas accompanied by Brady, Christen, Chelsea, Daryl, & Courtney. Daryl & Courtney had different seats that us. It was a fun fun night!

David is quite the entertainer and REALLY loves his microphone which he carries around and dances and sings with on the stage. Martin had a different guitar for each song. I really enjoyed the night and it was fun to be with my kids. Thanks Courtney!

RED ROBIN W/PAIGEY & LUKAS

2009-12-08T14:44:00.000-08:00

Chelsea was babysitting Lukas while Daryl & Courtney went away for a weekend in Las Vegas. So Casey, Chelsea, Paigey, Lukas and myself went to dinner at Red Robin on Saturday night, October 10th,the night before my vacation in Sacramento. Here they are "playing" with the video games. They are so funny and cute together.

BAD BAD GAME!!

2009-12-05T23:51:00.000-08:00

We watched the University of Utah vs BYU football game at Corbin's house. I went to play with the kids! Here is paigey piling up all her toys on my lap! She is so funny!

Paigey is very interested in eating and had to sit with Grandpa Bob to help him eat his chili. Bob made a pot of homemade chili for the occasion. It was really good!

Oh, by the way, I really Hate Max Hall! Ha!

THANKSGIVING DAY 2 COURTNEY'S HOUSE

2009-12-05T23:40:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Day at Courtney's. Yes, she is the new mommy! We had a small group of Patti, Tiff & Mike and their three girls and Bob and I. We all prepared the dinner, so Courtney only had to sit on the couch and cuddle that new baby. It was a fun time and the dinner was wonderful.

Grandpa Bob gave Lukas a haircut. Lukas was so cute and sat there so sweetly.

Colleen, Pepper, & Bob:

MILO!!

2009-12-05T23:33:00.000-08:00

Milo Daryl Hancock arrived on Sunday, 11/22/09, at 9:29 AM. He weighed in at 9 lbs 10 ounces! Here he is just a couple of hours after his birth:

With daddy:

With his big sister, Brookie.

We are very proud of Courtney & Daryl. He is a beautiful baby. We are so excited to have him in our family. That makes FIVE for us! Wow!

THANKSGIVING 1 AT KATRINA'S HOUSE

2009-12-05T23:12:00.001-08:00

On Saturday night, 11/21/09, we had a Pre-Thanksgiving dinner at Mike & Katrina's house.

Here is a list of the people at this dinner:

Mike & Katrina
Mike, Jr.
Christy & Sean

Margo

Geri & Ray
Russell
Scott & Kim
Andy, Joie, Jordan, & Jack
Jackie, Jeremy, Ashlyn, & Ayden

Bob & Colleen
Christen, Brady & Gibson
Corbin, Casey, Carter, & Paigey
Daryl, Courtney, Lukas
Chelsea

My mind was elsewhere that night as we were expecting a new baby the next morning in the family, so here are some random pictures of our night. Lukas & Jack were playing on the stairs:

The kids all love Katrina's cats:

Lukas:

Very pregnant Courtney sitting with Chelsea.

Carter & Gibson:

It was amazing how many family members that we were able to get together. Margo, Mike, Jr, Christy & Sean are from California. Jackie & Jeremy flew in from Denver. It was a very successful night!

HALLOWEEN UTE GAME

2009-12-05T22:59:00.000-08:00

On Halloween night, we went to the Ute game with Corbin, Casey, & Carter. Carter got to Trick Or Trick with the Ute players. It was a fun night. A little cold, but we won the game and it is always good to be with family. The hamburgers were pretty good, too! (Oh, it beat sitting home answering the door all night!)
Bob & Corbin:

Grandma & Carter:

Casey, Carter & Corbin:

While we were buying our dinner, Carter was playing around the cool Olympic fountain.

LAGOON OCTOBER 18TH

2009-12-05T22:40:00.000-08:00

So technically, I am still on vacation, so I was invited to go to Lagoon with Christen, Brady, Gibson, Courtney, Daryl, Brookie, & Lukas. It was a warm beautiful fall day and it beat doing laundry or going to church!

Lukas eating his sandwich and then heading for my drink!

Gibson & I on a ride together! It was really fun!

Christen & Gibson on a ride together:

Brookie & Gibson:

Christen & I in our "Costumes".

The Finale for the day--the train ride. Note Courtney, Brady, & Daryl all squeeshed together on one seat--quite funny!

LAST DAY SACRAMENTO TRIP

2009-12-05T22:22:00.000-08:00

It was a great trip to visit my sister and spend some time with her. She had just returned from a 3 week week cruise and had hurt her shoulder, but she was a trooper and we still had a great time. I loved the elevation there. I could breathe easier. Her stove cooked everything so fast. She has a beautiful yard with so many pretty flowers. It was so good to see her kids and her grandkids and all their pets! My skin didn't itch because of the humidity, but my hair was curly-ugh! She has a great big bathtub that drains really fast. And she can leave her butter on the counter as her cats don't jump on the counter! Wow, how would that be?? She has cable TV, too. We like to watch the same TV shows. I am a morning person and Margo is a night person. I would go for a walk while she slept in the morning (after I figured out how to get out of her house with her alarm!) She has alarms on every door and impossible locks to open! I learned a new recipe for brownies--which Bob seems to like really well! Ha! I worry about her living alone and I know she gets very lonely and misses her husband. She has a great network of friends that keep her busy. I have always admired and looked up to my big sister. According to my mother, she was perfect! She can cook anything, sew anything, and organize any function!

This was my last day with my sister in Sacramento. We went to lunch at our favorite Mexican place.

Then we visited Tamera and her family. They had been in Disneyland all week. They don't have any pets, so I didn't take any pictures of their pets-duh! Her boys are so cute. Here is Tamera, Devon, Darian & Caleb. (and me)

ERIC & MARGO'S CATS

2009-12-05T22:03:00.000-08:00

Margo & I visited Eric & Christina and their three cats. I have never seen such a fat cat as their "Kitten". Since it was close to Halloween, Christina put a "leaf" collar on him so he looked liked a big fat pumpkin. I can't remember the names of their other two cats. They have a darling house and Christina is quite the talented girl with decorating. She builds miniature houses. They are quite amazing.

Here are pictures of Margo's two cats. Every time I tried to take their picture, they would not cooperate. I finally managed to get a couple of good pictures. Their names are Reese & Pieces!

These is Pieces--he is beautiful!

This is Reese. He is quite comical to watch getting a drink. He does a little dance by the water container before he drinks. It is hysterical.

TRIP TO SAN FRANCISCO

2009-12-05T21:02:00.001-08:00

We finally arrived in the city. We parked right under Ghiradelli Square. It was so pretty there with flowers everywhere and of course, the smell of chocolate in the air--heaven!

My pirate friend:

The view from our restaurant during lunch.

Of course, there is an In N Out Burger right on Fisherman's wharf!

We decided to take a cruise of the Bay. It was a wonderful experience. You are given a headset which tells you all about the bay, the history, the historical sites, etc. Margo and I really liked it. The fog was so awesome--it would be there, then it would be gone. We cruised past Alcatraz.

The best part of the cruise was driving right under the bridge. We also saw one of the huge tankers that uses this port.

After our cruise, we sat on the beach and watched the crazy swimmers and birds. The beach is posted as being very dangerous with sharks and unsafe currents. But there are quite a few people who swim in the bay every day.

We had dinner at Ghiradelli Square--we each had a $8.95 Hot Fudge Sundae- It was very delicious. For some reason, the waiter left us about a dozen spoons, so one just happened to fall into my purse--my souvenir from Ghiradelli Square!

We drove home on the Golden Gate Bridge. We stopped on the other side and visited the memorial park there. I took this picture of the night traffic. You can walk across the bridge on a path that starts in this park. No Thanks!

2009-12-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

MY VACATION TO SACRAMENTO

On Sunday, October 11th, I flew to Sacramento, CA, to spend a week with my sister Margo. As I was waiting for Margo to pick me up, this Airport Cop kept driving by on his Segway. It just cracked me up! He thought he was pretty cool.

On Monday morning, we drove to Half Moon Bay to visit Margo's oldest daughter, Michelle, and her family. We stopped at a Taco Bell on the beach for a potty break. I've never seen a Taco Bell on the beach before. Even though it was October, there were surfers in the ocean. I couldn't lean on the handrail because of all the bird poop! Loved the sign!

MICHELLE & FAMILY

We walked down to the pier at Half Moon Bay about 4 blocks from Michelle's house to have lunch. We enjoyed a great lunch of Fish & Chips. The seagulls quite like the food, too. Here are some pictures of us at lunch. Matt, Michelle, Jesse, Margo and me. The birds would not move for the cars but they would move for the bicylists. Funny little birds.

This is Matt & Michelle's dog, Brando. He is a 13 year old Golden Retriever. He is a sweetie. It was great to visit Michelle and her family and to see where she lives. I can see why they like living there. They are a cute family.

On Tuesday there was a big storm that blew into the city and so we stayed at home. It was the remnants of a typhoon and it literally closed up the city. I found it quite comical to see everyone so upset over wind and rain! The local news station even interrupted Oprah for a weather update.

As the weather was still quite unsettled, we decided to visit Old Sacramento. We ate lunch at a "Saloon". This was our lunch companion. We walked around and visited the shops and had some chocolate strawberries. We asked a family to take our picture by this statue and they were from Germany! But they knew how to operate a camera!

On Thursday, we drove to the "City" (San Francisco). Here is the Bay Bridge and views of the city from the Bay Bridge. A week after I got home, this bridge was closed. This is one of the main arteries into the city. I was so excited to see San Francisco and to actually be there again after all these years.

AUGUST BIRTHDAY CELBRATION

2009-10-08T13:13:00.000-07:00

On August 16th, we all got together to celebrate our family August birthdays--Brady, Chelsea, and Casey's! It was a beautiful day and we had a blast.

Here's Brookie, Gibson, & Carter.

Here's Lukas & Paigey:

Chelsea & Casey.

Courtney, Bob, & Corbin

Brady & Christen.

Casey's Ice Cream Birthday Cake that Corbin brought for her as this was actually her birthday day! Yummy!

Daryl & I were there--just not in any of the pictures. I wish it was still summer!

YELLOWSTONE LAST DAY 2009

2009-10-08T12:32:00.001-07:00

The Yellowstone Inn-This is a picture from the Inn.

Here are a couple of pictures from the inside of the Inn.

Another group picture at the Inn.

Kent & LaRae on the bridge on the trail at Old Faithful.

Bob & Colleen on the bridge on the trail at Old Faithful.

Another group picture on the bridge on the Old Faithful trail!

Old Faithful Erupting! We timed it just right!

Loading up to go home.

It was great fun to spend a few days with Bob's siblings. This was a trip that had been talked about over the past few years--and we finally pulled it off this year. We only wished the weather had been warmer (especially for the River Trip) and that we had a little more time to stay in Yellowstone and do some more exploring. Next time we will plan a little better--but you never know about the weather.

YELLOWSTONE 2009

2009-10-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

On Saturday morning, we head NORTH to Yellowstone; however, we kind of made a wrong turn and we ended up at Jenny Lake Lodge. I kept telling Bob that the Tetons were getting further and further behind us! It was a quaint little lodge and something we had never visited before, so it was an interesting stop.

We had intended to stop at the Rockefeller Lodge on Jackson Lake--so finally we made it. It was a cold cloudy day and you couldn't see the Teton Mountains behind us. I don't think Gene liked being squished between us. (This is just one of many "group shots" that we got on this trip.)

Finally, we arrive at our humble lodging--the infamous Lake Lodge Cabins. We were so excited to have two beds this year!

After we got settled into our luxurious cabins, we headed out to do some sightseeing. This is Dragon's Breath--sounds really scary and is very interesting to watch.

More group pictures!

As we were walking around the Dragon's Breath area, because it was so cold, there was steam and fog everywhere. Where's Gene, Bob, Kent, & LaRae??

There were so many bison this year in the Hayden Park area that it caused a major traffic jam--not because people were stopping to take pictures, they were stopping because the bison were all over the road! It was amazing. At the Dragon's Breath area, there was a mommy Bison with her baby in the trees just behind us as we walked--and she kept snorting and talking to her baby! With the fog and the Bison snorting--it was kind of scary!

We finally made it to the Yellowstone Falls. It is called Artists Point and is a very popular site. This is the picture you see of Yellowstone all the time. (But not with us--another group picture.)

JACKSON HOLE WITH BOB'S SIBLINGS

2009-10-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

On August 5th, 2009, Bob and I headed to Jackson Hole WY for a short three day trip with Bob's siblings, brother Gene, and his two sisters (& spouses)Joan & LaRae.

This is the view from our motel parking lot of Jackson Hole Mountain (& Ski Resort)

Bob & I killing some time swinging on the big swing at the motel.

As we left for dinner that night, the sky was very strange with the sun setting behind a mist/clouds.

Good morning Kent!

Good morning Joan! (I think she is behind that mirror somewhere in her rollers.)

Walking down to the downtown--The Bear Chair

Sitting at the park.

Gene--check out that dashing outfit!

Kent & LaRae rented bikes for the day. We were trying to arrange to have all of us together at the "Antlers", but didn't happen. Joan & Barry left 5 minutes before Kent & LaRae showed up!

That afternoon, Bob, Colleen, Barry, Kent, & LaRae took a River Trip. The day had turned very cold and the water was freezing. It was quite the experience! Joan & Gene missed the adventure. Brrrrrr...

CONDO ST GEORGE--SUMMER 2009

2009-10-08T10:49:00.001-07:00

CONDO, ST. GEORGE:
This is the bedroom before Gibson & Carter rearranged it! They were being so good and having so much fun, so I go to check on them--they had completely dismantled the 2 beds to make "ramps" for their cars! It was so funny. So we got it all put back together and about an hour later--they did it again! Those two have quite the imaginations!

Gibson and Carter looked so cute carrying all the swimming pool stuff, just had to take their picture!(And Gene looks cute, too.) And here is Bob and Gene swimming. You know the water was warm to get those two in the pool!

Speaking of temperature--this is what the inside of our condo felt like--someone kept turning the A/C as low as it would go! (Corbin)

Here's Casey & Paigey

Casey painted mine and Paigey's toe nails the night before--Paigey loved it!

DIXIE ROCK--LAST DAY 2009

2009-10-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

So our last morning in St. George we decided to make the trek up the Dixie rock.
The view from Dixie Rock:

The family:

Corbin & Family:

Gibson & Carter had a great time on the Dixie Rock, but they didn't like crossing the "bridge."

It was a great week. It would have been better if Courtney and family could have come down. Maybe next year. Corbin is handy to have around--he likes to do laundry and to vacuum. Casey was so cute with the boys and she rescued Gibson one night in the middle of night as he was crying in the kitchen looking for the bathroom! The boys had so much fun together. They were always laughing and being silly. There was no way they could sleep together--they could not settle down. We got a kick out of the automatic lock on the door to the condo. After we locked ourselves out (Bob & I)we figured out not to lock the doorknob! We had to hire a locksmith to get back in--thank goodness the kids hadn't arrived, yet. Boy, did we feel dumb. I really appreciated Casey painting my toenails as it is too hard to do yourself! We hope next year that we are not there the same time as that obnoxious family that was having a family reunion (50 people)--they hogged all the pool chairs and were truly annoying! Bob as usual cooked great breakfasts every morning, except for the morning he went to the bakery--yummy! I loved the morning that Gibson and Carter came running into my bed and "woke" me up. All in all, it was an amazing week and went too fast.

24TH JULY 2009

2009-10-08T10:39:00.001-07:00

So it is the 24th of July (Pioneer Day). We are all thinking that St. George would certainly have a big fireworks display, but no they didn't. So we went to KMart and bought our own. As usual, I think Bob & Corbin had the most fun!

FIESTA FUN VILLAGE SUMMER 2009

2009-10-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

FIESTA FUN VILLAGE
The next night we visited the Fiesta Fun Village. We were quite impressed this year as it wasn't as smelly and dirty as it has been in the past-ha!
The Go-Karts:
The guys--

Chelsea--zoom, zoom!

The fun fun boats:

After the boats!

Then onto the batting cages--here is our traditional butt shot of Chelsea!

Bob--Cute helmet!

Paigey didn't get to do much at the Fiesta Fun Village--but she had fun sitting and watching.

ZION'S PARK SUMMER 2009

2009-10-08T10:27:00.000-07:00

Now onto Zion's--here we are on our favorite Zion's Shuttle--Brady was there, but I couldn't get his picture as he was too far away! But he was there! He was sitting with the boys.
Gene

Christen & Bob

Chelsea

Mom--Colleen

Corbin, Casey & Paigey

Paigey awake

Paigey asleep

Here we all are hiking up to the narrows:

You can't go to Zion's without taking a few pictures of the beautiful scenery. There is no place in the world as beautiful as this canyon! It is amazing!

So after our hike, we found a really cool swimming hole at the end of the trail. It was great fun.
Gene

Corbin

Carter & Gibson

Brady & Paigey

Chelsea

Christen & Brady

Christen & Gibson in the car on the way home from the hike--all tuckered out!
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PIZZA FACTORY SUMMER 2009

2009-10-08T10:21:00.001-07:00

Then, of course, we always have to visit the Pizza Factory. Paigey trying to "drive" the firetruck outside! Gibson and Carter at dinner. Then Corbin getting cool by the mist from the restaurant--he was quite entertaining on this trip! Ask about the "Stink Bombs"!

LAS VEGAS SUMMER 2009

2009-08-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, July 19th, Bob, Gene, and I went to Las Vegas to do a little shopping and sightseeing. We were meeting Christen & Brady later in the day to pick up Gibson to take back to St. George to start our annual "family vacation" while they celebrated their wedding anniversary in Las Vegas for the next 2 days.

We were trying to get a picture of both me and the Statue of Liberty--not happening! Turned out to be a windy day as you can tell by my hair!

We always like to go into the MGM Grand to check out the lions! I am right underneath the lion enclosure--the lion is chewing on his great big toy and then he started licking the glass--awesome! Then I took a picture of the lion statue outside!

3RD OF JULY PARTY

2009-07-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

If you have read Christen's or Casey's blog, you know that we had our annual 3rd of July party at Courtney and Daryl's house on the 3rd of July! It was a fun fun day & night!
Here are the guys playing!

Chelsea & Paigey.

Christen & Courtney just chatting away!

Paigey just loves the water and climbed right into Pepper's swimming pool and....

speaking of Pepper--Paigey loved her,too. She even let Pepper give her big kisses! I thought Casey was going to die!

Daryl sets up this really cool "water slide" every year. Gibson & Carter going down the slide.

Paigey was walking around eating a sugar cookie and was very interested in this water slide, so...

down she went with Carter! Oh by the way, she held onto her cookie that whole time!

Chelsea put Paigey's bow in Lukas's hair! Help me mom!

Courtney getting used to holding two babies on her lap--ha ha!

Bob & Corbin had the most fun of the night--setting off all the fireworks!

Chelsea showing Paigey the exciting fireworks--

Here's some of the gang watching, too!

Christen & Brady from the back!

Christen & Brady from the front!

I finally got a picture of Gibson & Carter together--every time I tried to take their picture--they were off doing something else--two little busy boys who have a lot of fun together.

And, finally, my favorite picture of the night--the moon! Yes, I tried to take a picture of the big beautiful moon with my new camera--and this is what I got! Ha!

There were several little girls at the party, too. However, I think they were in the house playing barbies! They missed out! Was a great time and I loved having all my children and grandchildren together! It is the best!

POOL PARTY--HA HA HA!

2009-06-29T14:43:00.000-07:00

Well, this will be a very short blog! Chelsea invited the family to her apartment pool this past Saturday, 06/27/09, to celebrate my birthday and Father's day. I was so excited to use my new camera. However, when I got in the car to drive home, the camera indicated that my memory was full! I had never loaded in my memory card-ha ha!So here are the three pictures that were in my camera! Yes, I am blonde!

I was so glad to get a picture of the two most important people there--Paigey and Lukas. Paigey was so cute in her little swimsuit and she loves the water!

Check out those swimtrunks on Lukas! Isn't he funny!

This picture didn't turn out too well--remember, new camera! Lukas is not too fond of the water as you can tell.

We had a great time with sandwiches, chips, drinks, dips, yummy dessert, and sun! It was the first beautiful warm sunny Saturday we have had for the last month! Thanks, Guys!

FATHER'S DAY 2009 AT SNOWBIRD

2009-06-22T17:43:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day we went to Snowbird with Daryl, Courtney, Brookie, & Lukas. We were joined by Darwin, Nicky, Ashley, and Darwin's parents. Darwin is one of Daryl's best friends. As we were driving up the canyon, it started raining and hailing! But the weather actually got better when we went higher up the canyon.

Bob and Colleen (in case you hadn't figured that out!)
Here are some pictures of our fun day!
Daryl with his two adorable children, Brookie and Lukas--

Lukas trying to drink water from water bottle!

Lukas is walking all over the place, so I tried to capture him walking!

Here is Brookie and Ashley--the "Little Princesses"

Grandma and Lukas. You can hold him if he can't see his mom!

This was a big pile of snow at the base of the mountain.

With the buffet that was bought, the dad's received a "free" ride on the tram, so we all went for a ride on the tram. It had been years since we had ridden this tram. It made me want to take up skiing again. Here are some pictures from the tram.

Here are the views of the valley and the parking lot from the tram.

Courtney & Lukas on the tram.

Daryl and Brookie on the tram.

Daryl, Courtney, Lukas, & Brookie on the tram.

Colleen on the tram--Bob took this picture!?

So we get to the top of the mountain--Wow!The wind was blowing and it was somewhat cloudy, but we were still able to have a spectacular view!
View from the top!

Courtney and family.

Darwin and family.

Daryl & Darwin walking with their little girls--just touched me.

Then, of course, the men started a snowball fight! Ouch! That snow was hard!

The whole group--wait, where's Colleen? Ha Ha--taking the picture!

The whole group, wait, where's Bob? Ha Ha--taking the picture!

I saved the best for last! As we were waiting to ride the tram to ride up the mountain, these two "freaks" caught my attention. They were wearing tank tops, smoking, drinking beers and WEARING THEIR SKI GOGGLES!

Then when we were getting ready to come back down the mountain, here they were again getting ready to ski down! They thought I was pretty cool because I wanted to take their picture. Oh, I almost forgot they had some really serious tattoos, too!Hence, the tanktops, I'm sure.

All in all it was a fun fun day spending time with our family. We are very blessed to live in a state with such beautiful mountains which we can enjoy by driving about 30 minutes from our house. It felt good to get out of the valley and stand on top of the mountain!

LUKAS'S FIRST BIRTHDAY

2009-06-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

Lukas turned one on 05/28/09 and Courtney had his birthday party on Saturday,05/30/09
Here he is surrounded by all his gifts! What a cutie! It was hot bright day.

Gibson and Carter found the Rockstar guitars! They were having fun. They were glad that they had each other as all the other cousins there were girls!

Here are random pictures of the family at the party.

Here's some pictures of the Grandmas at the party. Paigey wanted to sit all by herself in that cute little chair.

Here are some pictures of the cute Dinosaur cake Courtney had made for Lukas. The dinosaur "roared". As you can see, all the kids really loved it.

Casey made a special Dinosaur cake for Lukas to eat with his hands! Oh no! He wasn't having any of that! But Paigey liked it! They are so funny!

Please note Daryl and Bob going up the hill carrying empty propane tanks! Yes, we had to wait on the barbecue as their propane tanks were empty! So typical, huh?!

As you can see, we had a great time and it is always so delightful to be with friends and family. It is hard to believe that Lukas is a year old already! They grow up too fast! Thanks Courtney and Daryl for the fun day and giving us such special little blessings. We're looking forward the new one in December!

2009 MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

Opening my "gifts" on Mother's day. Corbin & Casey had a barbecue on Saturday night before Mother's day. This is the necklace that Chelsea & Casey gave me with my 4 grandchildren's names engraved on the silver circle. I love it!

Casey's card with adorable pictures of their family!

Chelsea's card that she made. If you turned it upside down -- it says Wow!

Lukas just loves his grandpa England and was cuddling with him--was so tender.

Paigey and Lukas playing together.

Of course, the biggest surprise I got for Mother's day was from Courtney/Daryl. She gave me a couple of gift certificates for a massage and a haircut and a card indicating that they are expecting again! Wow! How exciting. They are due in December. I guess Bob and I were the last ones to know about this bit of news--as usual! Courtney is a great little mommy and will have her hands full with this new one! Congratulations! (Should have waited a year on the necklace!)

EASTER AT GRANDMA'S

2009-04-17T19:57:00.001-07:00

On Easter Sunday, we had the whole family over for a turkey dinner and... a BIG EASTER EGG HUNT!

Here is Gibson, Carter, and Brookie searching! Their eggs were color coded for them so they knew which eggs were theirs!

Casey taking a picture for her blog!

Gibson helping Brookie find her eggs. He is such a fine little helper,

Here is Carter and Brookie continuing to search and search!

Checking out their treasures!

The victorious "egg hunters"!

Paigey was just crawling away as quick as she could! She was very helpful with the egg hunt.

My five little darlings!

Corbin & Paige--holding tight to her as she kept crawling away on the grass!

Daryl, Courtney & Lukas trying to keep the sun out of their eyes. The next day, it snowed again and has been very cold and stormy all week. It was truly an Easter Miracle that we had a beautiful sunny day! Made for a fun Easter Egg Hunt.

"PAIGE'S FIRST BIRTHDAY"

2009-04-17T18:52:00.000-07:00

On a beautiful spring Saturday, March 28th, we went to Corbin and Casey's house to celebrate Paige's First Birthday! I attempted to take a picture of everyone there--so here they are!

This is Casey's sister, Kerry, with her boyfriend, Dane, and Carter, of course.

This is my niece Joie with Christen and Casey's parents, Kevin and Vicky!

This is a special picture of Great Grandma Colleen and Vicky and Uncle Chris!

Here are the lucky grandpa's talking like a couple of old ladies in the kitchen! Ha!

Here is Paige with cousin? Jack, my niece's son!

Here they are again playing with Paige's new toy books from Aunt Christen.

Here is daddy Corbin placing Paige on her new toy horse from Aunties Courtney and Chelsea.

Here is the toy horse again with Paige, Jack, Chelsea, Bob, Darren & Emily.

This is Corbin & Casey's good friends Darren & Emily with their two darling kids!

Aunt Christen and Uncle Brady--they look like movie stars! ha!

Here is grandma and family--the only picture of me at the party--I was too busy taking everybody else's picture! But that is okay!

Aunt Courtney and Uncle Daryl & Lukas--aren't they so smiley??

One more random picture of the family--Chelsea, Bob, Lukas and Courtney.

Here are the cute cute ladybug cakes that Casey made for Paige's birthday! One is for Paige to eat all by herself!

She was quite amazed at the candles (and wondering where her clothes were?)!

Had to take off the cookies as that is all she wanted to eat!

Here she is--eating and getting really messy! Such Fun!

This is the special "Talk About" quilt that my sister, Geri, made for Paigey.

As it was beautiful sunny day, we moved the "party" outside. Here is Lukas on the swing.

Here is Jordan and Lukas swinging--they look pretty happy.

Here is Lukas going down the slide.

Grandpa Bob and Lukas.

Courtney on the tramp with Gibson and Carter! Wow, she can jump high!

As you can see, this was an amazing day. It is so wonderful to get together with family and friends and celebrate this cute little pumpkin, Paigey! She is such a cutie and has some pretty cute cousins, too.