Laura

Zoey 1 Day Old

2011-09-09T19:57:00.000-07:00

Proud Aunt Laura and Zoey

Grandpa holding Zoey

Grandma holding Zoey

Rosanne, Rafa, and Zoey...sorry your head got chopped off Rafa,

but hey, I didn't take the picture

Battle Creek Falls

2011-09-09T19:50:00.000-07:00

I hiked Battle Creek Falls in PG a couple of times this summer, twice with my friend Michelle and once with Candace.

I made them both walk through this creek to continue the trail...the water was pretty high this year.

Zoey Belle Angeles!

2011-09-09T18:54:00.000-07:00

Zoey Belle was born on August 30! She is such a sweet and beautiful baby!

Zoey and Grandma

Brand new baby Zoey, less than 4 hours old!

Quick Visit From Becky

2011-09-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

Becky came down for a quick visit in July and we got a chance to spend the evening with her and the kids.

The kids love to play with the legos when they come to visit.

Owen, Wes, and Maddy

They also loved playing with the bubble gun I got in DisneyLand

_________________________________________

Mom really wanted an updated picture of me so here is it with Toby

Rosanne's Baby Shower

2011-09-05T21:14:00.001-07:00

In July Mom, Staci and I hosted a baby shower for Rosanne. We had a great turnout and Rosanne received some very nice gifts from all her wonderful family and friends. It was my first time hosting a baby shower and I couldn't have done it without all the help of Mom and Staci!

It took Staci and I at least 2 hours to figure out how to make this diaper cake!

Lisa and I...not really ready for the camera...

(Thanks Lisa for helping us out in the Kitchen!)

Cousins Hilary, Stephanie, Christine, Jenny and her girls and a couple of Rosanne's friends

Rosanne's friends Megan and Natalie and our Aunt Fay with friends Sheena and Jamie in the background.

We played a game where I melted different candy bars into diapers and they had to figure out which candy bar they were. The hard part was that the diapers had a pretty distinct, overpowering smell to them that it was hard to smell the candy.

Playing games.

Rosanne opening her presents.

Our gourmet spread

Summer Flowers

2011-09-05T21:08:00.000-07:00

Snapdragons I planted this summer...and that dad kept alive by watering. They are one of my favorite flowers.

California! Monday July 18th 2011 Part 3: Disney Land!

2011-09-04T20:27:00.001-07:00

We didn't go on the Dumbo ride but I had to take a picture of it.

Candace and I waiting in line for the teacups. I was so exhausted by this point but we had to keep going and get in everything we could! I was so hot and tired it was hard to smile for the camera!

Not by favorite ride.

This was part of an evening performance on their little lake...the ship was the good part, the rest was kind of creepy

Jungle Cruise

I thought these tile mosaics were pretty cool.

At California Adventure we went to World of Color (which was amazing), Soarin’ Over California (also very cool) ,The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (surprising me one of my favorites), and King Triton’s Carousel

At Disney Land we also went to, Indiana Jones (definitely one of my favorites), walked through the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Buzz Lightyear, and Space Mountain.

Me, Candace, Cassidy, and Jamie after 14 hours of Disneyland!

California! Monday July 18th 2011 Part 2: Disney Land!

2011-09-04T20:22:00.001-07:00

Finally in Disney Land!

Candace and I

I love every minute of it. I couldn't get enough.

Pirates of the Caribbean!

California! Monday July 18th 2011 Part 1: Disney Land!

2011-09-04T20:11:00.000-07:00

I was so excited for this trip, I finally got to go to Disney Land! And I loved it even more than I thought, I can't wait to go back someday.

First we went into California Adventure. Toy Story was my first ride. I couldn't believe how many people were there and how long we had to wait in line for!

Cassidy and Jamie

Candace and I

It was sooo hot there. We walked into this building and it was so nice and cool. It was fun to see clips from all the Disney movies and see some stills from the films. The images are so detailed. I could have stayed in there all day.

From the Little Mermaid

(Animation Academy)

Fantasia (2000 I think)

Bambi

Cinderella

Mulan

The library from Beauty and the Beast

California! Sunday July 17th 2011 Part 3: La Jolla Beach

2011-09-04T20:05:00.000-07:00

After Sea Port Village and on our way back to our hotel. We stopped by La Jolla Beach and looked around. The view was amazing, it was so beautiful there.

Me, Candace, Cassidy, and Jamie

California! Sunday July 17th 2011 Part 2: Sea Port Village

2011-09-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

After visiting the temple grounds we drove to Sea Port Village and spent the afternoon looking around all the shops there. There was a lot of fun stuff to see there.

I really want to go whale watching someday...this is as close as I have gotten so far.

Old people dancing...

One of the coolest parts of the afternoon was getting to hold this bird, it was pretty neat.

Some robotic statue guy...he was pretty entertaining to watch.

There were so many beautiful plants and flowers in California!

California! Sunday July 17th 2011 Part 1

2011-09-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning we attended sacrament meeting at a ward that was in Laguna Hills, the city we were staying in. The building was huge and the outside was so beautiful and had beautiful landscaping.

After Sacrament meeting we drove down to San Diego. Our first stop was the San Diego Temple. It was so beautiful. It was such a beautiful day and the weather was absolutely perfect as we walked around the temple grounds.

Candace

The architecture of the building is so beautiful.

Like I said before, I was pretty enthralled by the palm trees.

The landscaping on the temple grounds was amazing, it was so beautiful.

California! Saturday July 16th 2011

2011-09-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

Saturday we spent at San Clemente Beach. There were lots of fun shops and it was fun to walk around and look in them all. One of our favorites was a chocolate shop:) I bought lots of souvenirs, I couldn't help myself since everything was so new for me.

I was in awe at all of the palm trees, they seemed surreal to me.

We watched a man work all day on this sand art, only to see it kicked to

nothing by some kids in a few minutes after he had left.

Candace and I trying to catch some waves. I couldn't believe how salting the water was! I knew the ocean was salt water but I couldn't believe how strong the taste was in your mouth, I couldn't seem to help licking my lips all the time and each time it was disgusting! Swimming in the ocean was a very different experience for me, I am used to calm lake water, not the waves of the ocean. And the water sure was cold!

We also saw Captain Jack Sparrow on the beach

California! Friday July 15th 2011 Part 2

2011-09-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

New Port Beach! My first time seeing the ocean! (since I was three:)

Candace and I

The weather was perfect that first night and the water was warm. We walked along the beach, stepped in the ocean, walked on the pier, and looked in a few shops. It was the perfect evening.

California! Friday July 15th 2011

2011-09-04T18:10:00.000-07:00

In July I took a road trip with my friend Candace, her sister Cassidy, and her friend Jamie to California! It was my first time there since I was three years old. It was a lot of fun and a much needed vacation. On our way there we stopped in Vegas for an hour. We walked around the Bellagio, ate delicious crepes, and walked the strip for a little bit. Then we were back on our way to California

Candace and I

Inside the Bellagio

An awesome landscape made entirely of fresh flowers.

Ward Family Picture

2011-08-25T23:26:00.001-07:00

During our family reunion we had Lisa take a family photo of us.

The original 8

All the grandkids minus Kristen:

Simon, Brian, Wes, Maddy, Owen, Tyler, Kimball, Eleanor, and Katie

The entire Fred Ward family

Ward Family Reuion

2011-08-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July weekend we had the first ever Ward family reunion. We went to Bear lake and had lots of fun enjoying the lake, hot tub, and the surrounding beauty.

Before we got to Bear Lake we stopped in Logan at Sam and Lisa's so Sarah could finish up the grocery shopping for our trip. (Thanks again for all the work you put into planning this one!) While she and Lisa were gone to the store I got out some pink nail polish and painted Eleanor's nails. I was so pleased she was so willing and excited to have me do this. It was so much fun! She loved it and it was fun to disgust Aaron by showing him her girly nails:)

Friday afternoon we settled into our cabin and then went swimming at the pool.

We spent Saturday morning using wave runners on Bear Lake. The first time I went out Dad drove me and Kimball. It was a hoot riding will Kimball. Then I rode with Kyle and Staci. And finally I got up the courage to drive it myself. So I took Staci out, then we picked up a few passengers...Tyler, and then Brian I think. I also went out for a quick ride with Wesley...though he wasn't anxious to go too fast. Lisa also drove Staci and I out for a long turn.

Kyle pushing Staci and I off and bringing us in.

My sister in law Lisa, Staci, and I with Owen in the background

( so you can tell how far out we were in the lake:)

My nephew Wes and I. Wesley loves to smoosh my face and lips

and then make me talk so he can laugh at me.

After a morning on the wave runners we spent the afternoon swimming and playing at the beach. It was scorching hot outside and freezing cold in the water!

I loved the hot tub! Unfortunately I got so burned on the lake I could only use it the first two nights.

Staci and Maddy

Sweet little Eleanor

Owen

Sunday morning:

"Can you feel the burn Kimball? It hurts, that's why we don't hit Aunt Laura!" Usually I'm fine playing as rough as the kids want to, but when all 6 of the boys are together plus a bad sunburn...it does not equal much fun. I was so fried after using the wave runners on Saturday morning. I also do not apply sunscreen very well, you can still see the fingerprint marks on my leg where I failed to rub in my sunscreen.

On Sunday we had several craft projects going on. This one was headed up by Rosanne and the kids loved picking stickers and making little sun hats and door hangers.

Kimball and Owen were pretty good buddies on the trip. Mom got all the grandkids new shirts...hence the matching.

Tyler, Brian, and Staci

Owen, I love his serious little thinking face.

Brian, Staci, and Wes

Simon

Tyler with Owen making a face

Kimball

Wes

We also worked on decorating fabric squares to make a quilt. I was sleeping off my sunburn during most of this time, I was in a lot of pain.

This was probably the worse burn I have ever had.

But I did get up eventually to join in the festivities.

Me, Rosanne, her husband Rafa and my brother Aaron.

Sunday evening we had a little family fireside where Dad told us a story about how his dad had saved a man's life in the wilderness of Minnesota.

Eleanor and I

(Notice how I had to paint my fingernails since I painted Eleanor's)

Mom holding the newest grandchild Kristen.

After our family meeting we went outside to enjoy a small bonfire.

Kristen, Aaron and Sarah's newest baby

Staci and I

(photo by Kyle Kunde:)

Simon, Madalyn, and Eleanor enjoying some smore's

group shot: Tyler, Kevin, Maddy, Becky, Wes, Owen, me, Rafa, and Kimball

Staci and Mom

Simon

Aaron and Kristen

Bear Lake

Simon

Maddy and Kevin

Maddy and Eleanor.

On our last day before we left we stopped and went through the caves of Minnetonka. There is something like 444 steps one way through the caves. During the first part of the caves I held Tyler's hand, and the second part I half carried, half led Eleanor along. I'm pretty sure I had to carry her up the longest stretch of stairs. It was so fun carrying her though because she would talk to me the entire time.

T-ball in Idaho

2011-08-23T21:32:00.000-07:00

haha, I am a little behind on my blog. In June I wasn't working much one week so I decided to take a quick trip up to Idaho so I could watch a couple of Owen and Wesley's T-ball games. Kevin and Becky were great hosts as usual and I had a great, relaxing, fun couple of days. I left after work Monday morning and caught the end of one of Owen's game. On Tuesday Wes had a game then I stayed to watch a full game of Owen's on Wednesday before coming home.

Wesley playing 3rd base. For each hit he would chase after the ball no matter where it was hit, and when someone else got to the ball first

he would plop down disappointed on the ground...it was adorable.

He also kept giving me the thumbs up from the dugout.

Monday evening we went to the Manwarings for family home evening.

Madalyn had fun playing outside and hiding in the lilac bushes.

Owen ready for bat. When he was first in line he was up and ready to go even though the other team wasn't even out on the field yet.

Owen as catcher.

More Kyle's Graduation Weekend in Idaho

2011-04-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

Owen

Kyle, Staci, and Maddy

(at least I got one picture of the graduate!)

Cowgirl Maddy

Kyle's Graduation Weekend

2011-04-17T21:32:00.001-07:00

"Surrender or die!"

Owen playing his DS under the bed. This is where he slept while I slept in his bed, of his own choosing. I'm pretty sure I heard him bump his head a couple of times during the night.

Owen and Maddy playing in the mud

Maddy and Mom playing kitchen

Guess whose feet? :-p

(To view Kyle's graduation, visit kskundefamily.blogspot.com :)

Wes part 1 at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-04-17T21:23:00.001-07:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Wes part 2 at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-04-17T19:28:00.001-07:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Birthday

2011-04-12T21:03:00.000-07:00

Staci came down to surprise me for my birthday! It was great to spend some time with her.

We worked on a craft together all afternoon.

Only one candle was left burning!

For dinner we had my favorite pizza, Papa Murphey's,

these pictures were taken to make Kyle jealous

Acceptance into UVU Dental Hygiene Program!

2011-04-12T20:49:00.000-07:00

Flowers from Rosanne and Rafa

In March I got my acceptance letter from the UVU Dental Hygiene Program! I was so excited to get in. They only take 16 applicants so I have been working very hard to get good grades and test scores. This year they had about 60 applicants. It's a two year program and I will start in the fall. I'm accepting donations to my education fund:)

Quick Visit to Idaho in January

2011-04-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Owen

Wes

Maddy playing with constructs

Wes, Maddy, and Owen playing with legos

About the first thing Maddy did was put on my purse and walk around the house...

too bad I couldn't get a clear picture.

I drove up by myself the last weekend in January to visit Kevin and Becky's family. It was a nice relaxing weekend and it was fun to play with the kids.

Visit from Staci and Kyle in March

2011-04-11T20:23:00.000-07:00

While Staci was in town, she, Mom, Dad, and I went and did some family names that Dad had prepared at the Mt. Timpanogos Temple in American Fork, UT.

Staci and Kyle

We met up for dinner in Salt Lake City.

Staci sure enjoyed getting to see Toby!

Toby Time

2011-04-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

Toby loves to sit in the snow. Notice how he is sitting on the only spot in the lawn with snow. Toby will also want to go outside when it is snowing

and sit until there is a thin sheet of snow on him.

Toby enjoys cuddling...sometimes. Usually when he cuddles, he wants a treat. So after a few minutes he'll run in the direction of the treats. He will pause and turn to look at me if I haven't followed him, sometimes he'll huff or whine at me, or he'll come back and rub his head against me.

New Years

2011-04-11T19:46:00.001-07:00

Brian and Tyler sure love to be with their Grandpa!

We didn't do anything exciting for New Year's, but we did have a visit from Sam and Lisa's family. We watched a movie after the kids went to bed and I snuck out for a little bit to go to a single's dance.

Festival of Trees 2010

2011-04-11T19:12:00.000-07:00

I thought Kyle would like this one!

For some reason I really like Nutcrackers!

Kind of a creepy gold Santa in the middle of this wreath

Nativity wreath

In December I volunteered at the Festival of Trees. They had some amazing Christmas Trees and wreaths, but I was most impressed with the gingerbread houses.

Christmas 2010

2011-04-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

Toby loved his present from Staci...after a couple of days...then he wouldn't put it down.

It was kind of a sad Christmas this year without the excitement of little nieces and nephews! Fortunately Santa still came. Mom, Dad and I enjoyed a quiet Christmas morning together opening presents. Rosanne and Rafa came over in the late afternoon for dinner.

Lights on Temple Square

2010-12-24T11:29:00.001-08:00

My ward went up to Salt Lake to look at the lights on temple square for fhe one night. It was beautiful. Here is a picture of the Salt Lake Temple.

Thanksgiving 2010 cont.

2010-12-24T11:24:00.000-08:00

Here are a few more pictures I got off of Dad's camera.

Lisa, Mom, Katie, and Wes in the background

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-24T11:15:00.001-08:00

This year for Thanksgiving we went up to Idaho Falls and Kevin and Becky hosted us. It was a great weekend with tons of great food. Everyone else did such a good job documenting it, here are a few random pictures I have.

Classic sleeping Wes

Grandpa, Owen, and Kevin fell asleep during the movie

Tons of delicious pie

Owen and Wes playing games on their dad's phone

Owen proudly displaying his turkey place setting

Staci made these beautiful flower arrangements for the tables.

I love this picture of Madalyn and Kevin

Of course we couldn't go to Kevin's house without having a nerf gun war.

These two boys showed no mercy.

Visit from Sam in the fall

2010-12-24T11:01:00.000-08:00

In the beginning of November, I think, Sam and his family came down to visit us in Pleasant Grove. It was nice to be able to spend the day together without anything to worry about.

Here is Tyler playing on the car blanket Mom made for the boys when they were little. It is amazingly detailed when you take a close look.

Mom thought Tyler looked pretty cute sitting in this chair absorbed by the video.

Mom with Katie

Grandma and Brian

Grandpa and Brian

Brian sporting a safety helmet

Sam, Lisa, and Brian...I was surprised this picture didn't make the family Christmas card;)

Katie enjoying the swing outside

Sam, Dad, and Tyler

Grandpa holding Katie

Me holding Katie

Visit from Kevin's family in October

2010-12-23T14:13:00.000-08:00

In October we had Kevin's family come down to Utah to visit. It was fun to have them down here to celebrate Becky's birthday. On Saturday while Becky hung out with her sisters we got to play with Kevin and the kids...after I got home from taking the ACT, again.

Madalyn

Me, Mom, and Wes

Kevin hard at work

Owen, Rafa, Rosanne, me, Mom, Wes and Kevin.

We all had fun playing with the contructs and legos...all day long.

Wes and I

Wesley and Owen

Summer Planting

2010-12-23T13:39:00.001-08:00

This summer I planted a few flowers and experimented with planting some pumpkins. It was fun to watch them grow. Things didn't quite turn out how I had imagined, better luck next year.

Colorado In August

2010-12-22T14:35:00.001-08:00

I went to Colorado in August to watch Aaron and Sarah's kids while they went on a cruise! It was more work than I ever imagined but tons of fun to see the kids and get to know Eleanor a little bit more. It was fun being able to take Kimball to school and picking him up...dragging Simon and Eleanor along.

Summer 2010

2010-12-22T14:10:00.000-08:00

This summer one of my first activities in my new Pleasant Grove activities was shooting clay pigeons. I did pretty good on my first try, the second time I didn't hit any. It was still a fun activity though.

This summer my old Spanish Fork ward went down to Lake Powell to go boating. I went down with some friends for a couple of days. At first I wasn't too excited about it but it turned out to be a lot of fun. Here are some pics of us cliff jumping...it wasn't super high, but scary enough for me. It was so much fun swimming in the lake. I hope I get to do it again.

Rosanne's Wedding - May 6th 2010

2010-09-10T18:28:00.000-07:00

Mom's side of the family

Kimball with his great-great Aunt Barbara

Brian and I

Sam and Tyler

Me with Owen, Wes, and Madalyn, Kevin and Becky's kids

Me with Kimball, Simon, and Eleanor, Aaron and Sarah's Kids

Wes

Madalyn

Mom, Sarah and her daughter Eleanor

Staci and her husband Kyle

Staci and I added some fresh flowers to the top of the wedding cake.

Nauvoo!!

2010-09-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

Nauvoo, IL Temple

While I was home Mom and I took a trip down to Nauvoo. While we were there we went to the temple and visited some of the old sites.

Mom and I in front of the Brigham Young home

Mississippi River in Nauvoo, IL

Me in front of the Heber C. Kimball home

Mom in front of the Heber C. Kimball home

Photos of Heber C. Kimball and Vilate Kimball,

my great, great, great, grandparents.

Vilate Kimball

Heber C. Kimball

Inside the Heber C. Kimball house

Mom and I in front of the Nauvoo Temple

Sis. Hirst, Sis. McDonald, Mom, Sis. Ross, and Sister Anderson

View of the Mississippi River from the steps of the Nauvoo Temple

Around the house in Moline

2010-09-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

Needless to say, I was super sad that my parents sold the house I grew up in, but I am very excited to have them living closer, especially since I needed a place to move in to!

Other Pictures from Moline, IL

2010-09-10T16:52:00.000-07:00

John Deere statue in the Quad City airport

Me and Toby in front of the house

John Deere farm equipment being transported in downtown East Moline

combines

John Deere Harvester...where my dad used to work

The entrance to John Deere Harvester...I think it's harvester...

2010-09-10T16:25:00.000-07:00

Mom and I drove around to some of the sites in Moline,

including the Mississippi River.

Mom in front of the Mississippi River

Me in front of the Mississippi River

2010-09-10T15:57:00.000-07:00

After mom and I went to the John Deere Pavilion, we went and visited the Isabel Bloom store for the "last time." Of course, after we said our goodbyes to our favorite Quad City store, we had to go back the next day and pick up our item that wasn't in stock the day before. Since we were in the area, we stopped by the John Deere Store again. :)

John Deere Pavilion

2010-09-10T15:36:00.001-07:00

Back in May I took a trip back to Moline to visit one last time before my parents moved...it's just taken me a couple of months to update my blog.

I couldn't go to Moline without making my traditional stop at the John Deere Pavilion...though I couldn't believe they didn't have a combine anymore!

2010-07-17T20:21:00.000-07:00

I ♥ BYU

Visiting at Kevin's house

2010-06-13T23:02:00.000-07:00

Kyle is going to make a great Dad,

someday soon;)

I love this pic cause it looks like Kyle and Wesley are both scowling at each other

It was fun to hang out with Kevin's family while we were in Idaho celebrating and going to Staci's BYU-I graduation.

Staci's Graduation April 2010

2010-06-13T21:27:00.001-07:00

I promise Staci's in this picture somewhere, I'm pretty sure she's the third person from the left.

Staci graduated this year from Brigham Young University Idaho with a degree in Horticulture.

Happy Easter 2010

2010-06-13T21:25:00.001-07:00

Rosanne and I didn't do much for Easter this year. I made some eggs and we put some candy together for Easter Baskets...each trying to sabotage the others biggest loser diet.

My Birthday

2010-06-13T21:09:00.000-07:00

This year for my birthday (back in March) Rosanne and Rafa took me out to dinner, then we had a few of my friends over for cake and ice-cream.

Me, my best friend Faby, and her husband Nick

my friends Jessica and Breanna gave me

this ridiculous tiara to wear...I liked it.

Rafa wishing he could have had a birthday wish

This year I was lucky enough to have Kevin's family come visit during my birthday. It's always more fun celebrating when there are excited little kids around! I stole a few pics from Rosanne's blog. We went and saw How to Train Your Dragon in 3d.

When your laundry sits for a while, things start to grow in it...

Centerpiece for Rosanne's reception

2010-06-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

here are some pictures of the floral centerpiece I arranged for Rosanne's wedding reception

December 2009 with Sam's Family

2010-06-13T21:02:00.000-07:00

Tyler

Mom playing with Brian and Tyler

We stopped in Logan for a visit with Sam's family and the way back home from Idaho.

Christmas 2009 with Kevin's Family

2010-06-13T20:50:00.001-07:00

For actual Christmas Day we went up to Idaho to spend it with Kevin and Becky's family. Thanks for having us! It was a lot of fun:)

Staci's purple afghan I crocheted for her. She knew she was getting one but was surprised I had it finished by Christmas! I made the whole thing in one week (plus a couple hours two days later)

Batman...aka Wesley

Rosanne and Madalyn

My brother-in-law Kyle helped make the Christmas turkey...it was very good. I loved the bacon on top:)

Christmas 2009 with Aaron's Family

2010-06-13T20:37:00.001-07:00

Better late than never right? I thought I'd try updating my blog a bit, I'm trying to pick up where I left off. These are pictures from December 2009. Aaron and his family stopped by our house, when it was still mine and Rosanne's house, and celebrate Christmas with Mom and Dad.

Kimball and Simon enjoying their new presents. When I left Kimball in Colorado, he was extremely camera shy and wouldn't cooperate for photos, now he is at the stage where he has a goofy smile on his face. Funny kid.

Grandpa and Kimball

Simon and me

Kimball, Eleanor, me, and Simon.

Aren't we a photogenic bunch?

Sarah, Simon, Kimball, Aaron, and Eleanor

Aaron and Eleanor with Grandma

Wesley gives Madalyn a kiss

2009-10-04T20:42:00.001-07:00

Idaho State Fair

2009-10-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

Labor Day Weekend in Idaho

2009-10-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Rosanne and I drove up to Idaho Labor Day weekend to visit Kevin and Becky. Our new niece Madalyn Jane was blessed that Sunday by her dad and assisted with tons of uncles.

I had a hard time choosing the best takes, so I just put all the pictures up!

Wesley is such a charmer!

Wesley holding Madalyn

Owen holding Madalyn

Updated house picture

2009-10-04T20:21:00.000-07:00

I know some of you wanted to see a picture of our house with the lawn all grown in, so here it is. It looked pretty bad when we first moved in but now the lawn looks great!

My Best Friend's Wedding

2009-10-04T19:09:00.000-07:00

One of my very best friends from college got married in August. She is from Mexico and was always such a good and supportive friend. Here are a few pictures from her wedding in Salt Lake City.

Faby and I

Me in front of the Salt Lake City Temple

Me holding a cardboard cutout of Faby's brother who is serving a mission.

Gisel, Faby's sister and my other very best friend, and I,

Faby and her new husband Nick coming out of the temple.

I couldn't resist taking a picture of the cake

that was decorated with fresh flowers:)

Colorado Visitors

2009-10-04T18:34:00.000-07:00

Ok, so this post is long overdue, but here are some pictures of when Sarah and the kids came to Utah.

Simon having a blast eating his lunch.

Eleanor reading the Sunday comics.

Me and Eleanor

Rosanne and Eleanor

Visit to Illinois

2009-08-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

Rosanne and I made a trip out to Illinois in July. Since Mom and Dad are planning on moving back to Utah soon, this may have been our last visit. We both love Illinois and enjoyed basking in the midwestern humidity.

Me standing at my favorite place in the world, on the banks of the Mississippi river in Nauvoo, Illinois.

The beautiful Nauvoo Temple. We were able to see the Nauvoo Pageant as a family while we were in Nauvoo.

Toby was excited to see us, but you could tell he was wondering why Staci wasn't there.

More pics from Idaho

2009-08-23T16:44:00.000-07:00

Anyone want some cheese?

Quick trip to Idaho

2009-08-23T16:24:00.000-07:00

This is my beautiful new niece Madalyn Jane!

She gave me this look a lot while I was there

Wesley and Owen dressed up as pirates.

Wesley

Owen

Family Weekend

2009-06-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

Aaron and Sarah were coming to town for a mission reunion and Meibos family reunion, so we all decided to get together for a couple of days. Friday night Aaron and Sarah dropped Kimball off at our place for a sleepover. He was so excited to be here and I was just as excited to see him. He unpacked his bags first thing on the living room floor. When I put him to bed I read him a verse from the Book of Mormon. He told me that in his Book of Mormon back home, there are pictures of temples, wagons, and properties (Joseph Smith cabin and homestead etc). Of course he gets the term properties from his dad, who is trying to buy some. As I was making sure Kimball had everything he needed for the night, he asked me hesitantly, "are we going to have breakfast in the morning?" He was pretty excited about sleeping over without his parents, but I guess he wasn't quite sure what to expect. He was pretty relieved when I said we could have whatever he wanted.

Saturday morning we made a quick trip to check out BYU. As you can see, Eleanor loved it.

and so did Simon and Kimball

Rosanne, Aaron, and Eleanor enjoying the little pool outside the Museum of Art, I was worried about the boys jumping in for a little swim, since that was the next activity of the day. We only got to swim for an hour before the lighting and thunderstorm came. The lifeguard told all of us to get out of the water. Kimball said, "why did she say to get out of the water, I wish she said everyone get in the water and stay there all day long." He was pretty disappointed. After we went swimming for a little while, we went to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple open house. I think the kids enjoyed it for the most part, especially the cookies afterward. Simon kept saying beautiful temple. Whenever I would point at a picture of the Saviour and ask Simon who it was, he was respond without hesitation, "Jesus."

After the open house we went to Coldstone for some ice cream.

hmmm...chocolate with sprinkles

Brian had to get the pink ice cream...doesn't this look like the perfect promotional picture?

Kimball enjoyed reading Coldstone's literature on cakes in the car.
Simon had been wanting to ride in our car with us all day, he finally got the chance after ice cream when we took him to babysit while Aaron and Sarah went to her mission reunion. To say he was excited would be an understatement.
My attempt to wind down the kids. We had Sam's family and Staci and Kyle over Saturday night. Staci and Kyle made us some delicious pizza. At one point, Kimball went into my room and pulled the sleeping bag over his head saying, "I'm tired of all these big people, they're driving me nuts!"

Kimball was having a lot of fun staying at our place, but I think he was a little insecure not having his parents around with so many people he didn't know very well.

It looks like Kimball is trying to explain something that is difficult for me to understand in this picture.
Fortunately, Kimball got breakfast every morning...pancakes on Saturday and Captain Crunch and a chocolate protein shake on Sunday. Lucky kid.

Sunday after church we went to see Aunt Barbara and then walked around temple square before heading to Aunt Diane's for a great family dinner.

Simon

Simon was my little buddy all weekend. It took months for him to warm up to me in Colorado, it was nice to see it all pay off with this visit. He just had to be next to me where ever we went, I loved it.

Eleanor and Aaron, she has the sweetest smile.

Memorial Day Weekend Part 2: Idaho Falls and Logan

2009-06-21T12:28:00.000-07:00

So I don't have any of my own pictures from Idaho or Logan because my camera ran out of batteries. Saturday night Kevin and Becky treated us to a delicious barbaque and I had my first little ride on a 4-wheeler thanks to Kyle.

Sunday night Rosanne and I drove to Logan to see Sam and Lisa. We had a relaxing Monday morning enjoying their new yard and then we went to a park and had a delicious picknick. We also got to look around at a small zoo by the park.

Memorial Day Weekend Part 1: Rexburg

2009-06-21T11:44:00.000-07:00

Rosanne and I got to Idaho Falls Friday night and were able to spend some time with Kevin's family and Staci and Kyle. We had lots of fun on the trampoline with the kids and enjoying a fire in there new firepit. Saturday morning I went up to Rexsburg to see Staci and Kyle's place and visit Staci's work.

Staci working hard watering the flowers while I sit and watch and take pictures without her knowing:)I had a lot of fun looking at all the different flowers the BYUI greenhouses have. Staci showed me all of their greenhouses and the apple orchard. My favorite was the jungle greenhouse! This greenhouse was beautiful and peaceful, with tons of green plants and the relaxing sounds of a waterfall.

Flower Bed

2009-05-17T19:16:00.001-07:00

This is my first time planting flowers on my own, we'll see how it turns out.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T10:38:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to the best mom in the world! I love you mom and am so grateful for all you have done for me. You are so kind and one of the most thoughtful people I know. I can't wait til we live closer together and we can enjoy each other more!

Mom and I enjoying some delicious Whitey's ice cream on my most recent trip to Illinois.

Here are some beautiful flowers I would send you if I had any money :)

Phone pics

2009-04-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

Cute sleeping Eleanor, this pic is probably from February.
We drove up to Denver to see Sarah's nephew Kerst get baptised. It didn't take very long for Kimball to fall asleep in the car.
We were staying at a hotel in Denver for the baptism. We were planning on going swimming. Simon wore these gogels for two days before we went swimming, part of Thursday and ALL day Friday.

Simon and John Deere

2009-04-14T09:16:00.001-07:00

Kimball and Simon had fun trying to hide my things or take them away from me while I was packing up to leave. Here Simon is wearing my John Deere hat, and you can't see in this pic but he is also holding my John Deere tractor keychain. The John Deere blanket was given to him my his Aunt Rosanne.

Trip to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

2009-04-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

The Saturday before I left Colorado Springs we all went to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo with some of Emily's family. This is one of my favorite things to do in Colorado. The weather was perfect and we had a very fun morning. Thanks Emily for treating us!

Simon was too scared to sit on a horse.

I got to accompany Kimball on the Merry-go-Round. (you notice the whole in Kimball's pants...I only point it out because it is really funny when he puts them on backwards and he tries to convince you its the right way.)

Kimball was a natural when he jumped into this kayak on display. He grabbed the paddle, pushed out, and started paddling. It was a riot.

Kimball pretty much refuses to have his picture taken these days. I have to tell him I will forget what he looks like if he doesn't let me, it worked the first time.

Kimball was very excited about riding the train.

He had to wait a few turns so he could ride in the engine.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo has the largest display of giraffes I have ever heard of, easily 15.

Eleanor and Simon waiting to take off.

Kimball was very excited about riding in Aunt Emily's van to the zoo, he parked himself in the driveway waiting for her to arrive.

Young Musician

2009-04-05T14:05:00.001-07:00

Eleanor is such a big girl already!

I love this picture cause her hand is on her dad's arm

happy, chuby little Eleanor

Simon on the guitar

Eleanor

2009-04-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

Cute chubby little Eleanor

All bundled up for a walk.

Eleanor always smiles and coos, until you turn on the camera!

February 2009

2009-03-01T21:21:00.001-08:00

Kimball and Simon in their nice shirts Aunt Rosanne got them for Christmas. Kimball has been pretty anti camera lately, so it's hard to get a good picture, well, it's always hard to get a good picture of these kids! They love playing with their trains.

Cute little Eleanor. She is such a happy baby!

Always cooing and smiling.

Some videos: I think Mom will enjoy these the most, but here are some short videos of the kids.

I am afraid I am not the best influence on these boys. Simon always calls the disney princess blanket I have "my princess blanket," and it is always his blanket of choice when he is in my room. In this video I was babysitting Simon and Eleanor. For some reason, Simon got really upset when Sarah left this time. It took forever to calm him down. I finally convinced him to come and play in my room and watch Thomas on my ipod instead of crying by the garage door. You can hear his big little sigh from crying so hard at the end of the video. About Eleanor, Simon usually says, "she's pretty cute," or "she's sweet."

Some Family History

2009-01-25T22:00:00.000-08:00

Last week for my ward FHE, the lesson was based off of Quentin L. Cook's talk "Hope Ya Know, We Had a Hard Time" from November's General Conference. Our teacher related a story in the article about Helen Mar Whitney. I thought to myself, 'my grandmother's name is Helen Mar, I wonder if we're related.' So tonight I checked some family group records, and lo and behold, Helen Mar Whitney's maiden name is Kimball, daughter of Heber and Vilate. Which makes her our great-great-great aunt. I thought this was pretty interesting so I'd thought I'd share it will you.

Here is the excerpt from the article:

Even with their common faith, the Saints had experienced much hardship and approached the evacuation of Nauvoo with very different expectations. Some looked forward with optimism, others with concern. Two excellent examples are presented by Helen Mar Whitney and Bathsheba Smith. Both have left compelling records of their feelings.
Sister Whitney recorded her expectations upon leaving Nauvoo: “I will pack away all my little ribbons, collars and laces, etc., for we are going where we cannot purchase them. We are going out from the world to live beyond the Rocky Mountains where none others will wish to go. There will be neither rich nor poor among us, and we will have none but the honest and virtuous.”10 Sister Whitney’s words resonate with an idealistic optimism....

Both of these LDS pioneer women remained strong in the gospel throughout their lives and provided wonderful service in building Zion, but they faced many additional trials and hardships, which they both faithfully endured.12 Despite Sister Whitney’s optimism, her first three children died at or near birth—two of them during her extended exodus from Nauvoo to Salt Lake.13 Sister Whitney has blessed us with her writings in defense of our faith and was the mother of the Apostle Orson F. Whitney.

Visit to Idaho and Utah

2009-01-25T18:50:00.001-08:00

I was feeling a bit cooped up in Colorado, and I wanted to get out to see some family and friends, so I decided to take a quick trip to Utah and Idaho. First I went to Provo, saw some friends, then Rosanne and I drove to Idaho to see Kevin's family and Staci. I also got to see an old roommate who had a baby a few months ago, so the trip was well worth it. I am also trying to decide whether or not I want to move back to Provo, so I can be closer to my wonderful sisters:)

Staci, me and Wes
Wes is so cute!

Me and Staci trying to play the Wii, Kyle beat me in tennis every time

cute little wes

It was so fun watching owen try to play the wii

Staci and Wes

It was fun to be all together again for the weekend, I haven't seen Staci since her wedding reception.

This house had a cool Christmas light show in Kevin's neighborhood, it was pretty sweet.

Chillin' in Laura's Room: Kimball and Simon's Fav Activity

2009-01-18T19:12:00.001-08:00

Simon was a bit sleepy

Kimball and Simon love to terrorize me while I am trying to work. They love snuggling and

playing with my blankets and messing up my bed and bringing their toys in my room. Here they are watching a movie.

Kimball's New CTR Ring

2009-01-18T19:08:00.001-08:00

Kimball wearing his new church clothes from his wonderful Aunt Laura, and modeling his new CTR ring. Kimball of course has a goofy smile and who knows what Simon is doing.

Happy Birthday Dad !!!

2009-01-05T10:41:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the best dad in the world!!!

Thanks Dad for all the things you do for me and all the support you have given me throughout my life. Thanks for all the support and counsel you have given me with my music, education, and service missions. I couldn't have asked for a better dad. I love you!

I wish I could be there to celebrate your birthday with you! I hope you have a great day!

Sleeping Eleanor

2009-01-04T14:26:00.000-08:00

Snuggling with Aunt Rosanne

2009-01-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

Kimball was happy to have his other aunt around for the holidays.

Hat Hair

2009-01-04T14:14:00.000-08:00

After taking a walk and playing at the park, Simon and some crazy hair!

Fun at the Park with Grandpa

2009-01-04T13:57:00.000-08:00

Sarah and Simon

Aaron and Kimball digging a tunnel.

Simon had to go down the slide on my lap, it was a tight squeeze.

We took a nice walk to the park on morning while Mom and Dad were still here. Kimball enjoyed being pushed on the swing by Grandpa.

pics stolen from Rosanne's Blog of Christmas 2008

2009-01-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

Me with Eleanor and Simon, and Kimball playing on the computer

Simon and Eleanor

Me and Eleanor

Me and Toby :)

Me reading a book they got for Christmas to Kimball and Simon

I stole these pics from Rosanne's blog because I don't have very many pictures of myself on my own blog.

Christmas 2008 in Colorado

2008-12-30T09:46:00.000-08:00

Kimball modeling his new clothes
Toby enjoyed opening a few presents

It took an entire evening for Toby to relax once they got here,

but then he just made himself at home.

Kimiball flying down the stairs...

when he landed he said "it didn't work"

Aaron's old superman costume that Mom brought.

The Christmas holiday came and went all to quickly for me this year. It was great to have Mom, Dad, and Rosanne come to Colorado to celebrate with us, but the weekend went by too fast. It was nice to see Toby again too!

Kimball was sure excited to open presents and get new toys and clothes. Simon didn't really understand the concept of opening the presents to get the toys...he just wanted to play with the presents Kimball opened instead of opening his own.