tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81775374588494228782024-03-07T10:55:11.487+07:00Life Goes On...Hillman Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12600060342784990078noreply@blogger.comBlogger220125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-84451485735154224772012-06-15T10:37:00.001+07:002012-06-15T10:37:22.168+07:00Jane's journalMy Jane loves writing in her journal. I love looking through it to see what she's written or drawn. Today was a treat. She lost her tooth yesterday, as you will find out. This game of "hard and soft" that she talks about was a new one yesterday. It has a lot of potential of going bad, but so far, it's just produced a tooth that seriously needed to come out, so we'll let it go for now!<br />
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The little elephant on her bed is what she kept her tooth in for the Tooth Fairy. You may also notice the note and gold coin on her bed that the Tooth Fairy left for her. It pretty much made her whole day.<br />
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Another one of my favorite drawings... her hospital bed is a little more ornate than mine was! But, the comfort level of that bed seems fitting. Not a fan of those beds. <br />
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On a side note, I just found out how much money we saved by sleeping in
that bed for only one night. Seriously, I can't believe they charge so
much for a horrible bed and people waking you up every two hours!<br />
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And just in case you were wondering... Jane DOES love baby Anne. She is the best helper around. I often wonder how I managed a newborn without her!<br />
<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-9277281146926316702012-05-28T11:03:00.000+07:002012-05-28T11:03:05.402+07:00Anne LuRee HillmanOur little girl finally made it! Anne LuRee Hillman was born at 9:24am on May 20th. 7 lbs 12 oz, 20 inches long. Today she is one week old, and although she was about a week late, I can still hardly believe she's here.<br />
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We've shared her birth story with many, but for those who are interested, here's a shorter version than if you actually talked to either Jeff or me. We still can hardly believe it played out the way it did... not what we expected. In retrospect, we wouldn't change a thing.<br />
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In an effort to not look as foolish as this story probably portrays me, let me just say that my three other deliveries were all long and slow. No hurry during any part of them.<br />
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5:45 am - I woke to long-awaited contractions. They weren't close together, so what's the hurry? <br />
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We made a big family breakfast, showered, tidied rooms, got the kids ready for church and told my mom to come up, but assured her there was no need to hurry. Little did I know.<br />
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This picture was taken at 8:45am, once I wasn't able to talk (or stand) through contractions any more and realized we didn't have as much time as we thought we did. We sent the kids to the neighbor's and were off.<br />
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This picture was taken at 9:30am (she was 6 minutes old) at our hospital that Google maps would tell you would take 34 minutes to get to from our home.<br />
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How did we do it? Jeff was running red lights, driving double the speed limit, and passing slow Sunday morning drivers. And as I told him I wanted to push, he just drove faster. My hero.<br />
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I never had a desire for a natural birth, so when the nurse said, "you're complete", it took me a minute to come to terms with what was happening. But 10 minutes later, there she was. It all happened so fast, it was actually really hard to process once she was in my arms. I kept saying, "You're here! You're real!". It was love at first sight. <br />
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I wish I could say I was calm and collected through the whole thing, but honestly, if I hadn't been breathing through the strongest contractions of my life, I probably would have ripped the heads off of those calm nurses at the receptionists' desk when they asked me to sign paperwork. All I could do was sign and <i>breathe! </i>In their defense, they hopped into action as soon as they realized this was happening NOW. <br />
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So, our little Anne is here, and we are all madly in love with her.<br />
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My three girls and proud Daddy... <br />
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and big brother, Jack...</div>
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Anne's middle name is after my incredible Grandma Ottley whom Jeff and I both adore. Grandma will brag about how she and Grandpa were an integral part of our courtship, and she is right. We were lucky to have Grandma come over to meet our little Anne LuRee this week. Love you, Grandma.<br />
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We've been counting down to a lot of things in our house, but Jack
started counting down for his birthday LONG ago. And even with all his
reminders, I still don't think I could have pulled it off without a LOT
of help! Check out this cool banner my mom made... (which is now hanging in his room)<br />
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He chose a Percy Jackson theme, which seemed
fitting since he's read all 5 books several times each. He can tell you
more about Greek Gods than anyone I know. This party was bound to
be fun. And, I'll just say it... crazy.<br />
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I
was a little worried about the weather, and also the mix of kids. We
had kids from two different schools and a homeschooler, plus a mix of
boys and girls. I was so grateful this age is not "too cool" to play
with whoever is available! Jack assured me the girls were all "cool"
girls and would have fun even if we were playing with swords, and he was
right! They were all awesome, and didn't hesitate to join in the fun.<br />
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So, Jack and his 11 closest friends (just realized one of the boys got cut off!) had a fantastic adventure at Copperton Park playing games, designing their own shields, eating yummy things, and completing a daring quest for Zeus' Bolt.</div>
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Jack says his favorite part was the quest. I think it was my favorite to plan and carry out as well. They started out finding their swords (that Jeff made just for them), then they had to search all over the park for puzzle pieces to piece together the next clue. This was the one hiccup in the quest... there was one clue we didn't find until the end. So, I did have to help them a bit with this step.</div>
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It says, "<i>Once you've made these pieces one, do not stop, your quest's not done,</i></div>
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<i>Look to the table for some gold, each must make payment young and old,</i></div>
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They were awesome at figuring out each clue. They grabbed the gold and looked all over for Hades' cauldron. Jeff was a good Hades, and they all earned their next clue. Jeff's disguise was made from black balloons. Can't say he's not resourceful!</div>
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Overall, it was just a lot of craziness to me, but the kids had a blast and that's really all that mattered! </div>
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Every time I am with Jack and his friends, I am so grateful for <i>good</i> friends. I can only hope Jack will always choose good kids like this group!</div>
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And tonight, for his real birthday, he requested Lemon Fried Chicken, sausage, apples, and eggnog. Who could have guessed? We continued with the Camp Half-blood theme and did S'mores over the fire pit instead of cake. It was a hit! Happy 9th, JACK!<br />
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So, let
the countdown to an even bigger event begin... our baby girl. Pregnancy
is going great. Actually feeling better this week than I was a few
weeks ago, so I'm grateful I can enjoy this fun time in our lives.
Although, I'd be lying if I didn't admit my arms are aching to hold her!<br />
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In
case I haven't seen you in a while, here's a picture of what I look
like almost 9 months pregnant. Jane had to draw an "ig" picture. She chose "BIG", meaning my BIG BELLY. At least she
specified that it was because I am having a baby! And I thought she was a little reserved with my proportions. I'm a lot, shall I say, <i>rounder</i>? And the way my legs are just stumps... not too far off. I used to call them feet. Now they are full of water, ugh. But, if that is what it takes to get my baby girl here, bring it on. Someday, I will be able to see my ankle bones again, right?<br />
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Wish us luck!</div>
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<br /></div>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-15205839093330474042012-01-23T08:59:00.002+07:002012-01-23T09:54:49.717+07:00Christmas in a NutshellI love Christmas. Especially Christmas Eve.<br /><br />Here's our holiday week in a nutshell.<br /><br />Gingerbread house building with more eating than building.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7146/6746175307_cfce20147f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7146/6746175307_cfce20147f.jpg" /></a></div><br />A new tradition... so yum. I love Alice's face.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7010/6746177587_74376be135_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7010/6746177587_74376be135.jpg" /></a></div><br />Nativity with an animal this year. A first for us.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7141/6746180371_11148aa7c1_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7141/6746180371_11148aa7c1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Annual Pajama pictures...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7005/6746184139_1a9ca7dc1f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7005/6746184139_1a9ca7dc1f.jpg" /></a></div><br />And being a little silly...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7002/6746187407_e1416f1985_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7002/6746187407_e1416f1985.jpg" /></a></div><br />Christmas morning anticipation...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7012/6746190349_caa6b8542b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7012/6746190349_caa6b8542b.jpg" /></a></div><br />Santa brought us a new member of our family, that Jack has named Comet. (Santa left Jack a note asking him to rename her since the elves were all calling her "Princess Flower Pants". We thought Comet was more fitting.) We are all madly in love with her. This picture pretty much encompasses what we did all day Christmas. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7006/6746191503_f0b1ef3625_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7006/6746191503_f0b1ef3625.jpg" /></a></div><br />Not only did we add Comet, but we also found out Christmas afternoon that our baby will be another <span style="font-size:180%;">girl!</span> We are thrilled! (Although, Jack is feeling pretty outnumbered)<br /><br />First ice skating experience for the kids at our annual Rich gathering at Noah's. It was short and sweet, until Jack feel hard and hit his head. He's learned how to recover fast. Years of practice!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7141/6746193747_961e119eef_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7141/6746193747_961e119eef.jpg" /></a></div><br />And we said a "see you later" to Elder Alaguretnam (top left), who's on his way to North Carolina! We couldn't be more excited for him and his family!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7025/6746196597_a5841cb506_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7025/6746196597_a5841cb506.jpg" /></a></div><br />Hope your Christmas was merry and bright!Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-43195954554509845602011-12-22T05:23:00.004+07:002011-12-22T05:48:08.898+07:00Some Holiday Firsts...Christmas time is nuts because everything around Christmas time is fun, right? Ok, Walmart on a Saturday in December is the exception, but when is that NOT horrible?<br /><br />This year, the kids did their first Christmas Suzuki Concert with their new violin teacher. Up until this summer, I had been the sole teacher for both of them, and it's been heaven to pass off some of that responsibility to a friend/fellow violinist who we all adore. Ms. Ruth has held a Christmas program for the last 15 years, and Jack and Jane were lucky to be a part of it this year.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7007/6551156205_d3f9e74586_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7007/6551156205_d3f9e74586.jpg" /></a></div><br />This really was one of Jane's first performing experiences, so we learned we need to work on her performance etiquette a bit. Thank goodness she was the youngest, and smallest, so it was a little more laughable than it will be in a few years when she may still be biting her nails and coming in 2 notes later than everybody else!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7157/6551067985_b13a9e984d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7157/6551067985_b13a9e984d.jpg" /></a></div><br />Really, the kids worked extra hard to prepare for the performances, especially Jack who played almost all the pieces the big kids played. They did GREAT, and were really excited about playing. They were especially grateful for the support of loved ones who braved downtown on a very busy weekend!<br /><br />This performance was in the downtown library auditorium, a fantastic venue. Their afternoon one was at the Joseph Smith Memorial building, and since Jeff was doing the single dad thing from 2pm on, there were few pictures. Understandable, Super Dad.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7173/6551070037_bf004731ab_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7173/6551070037_bf004731ab.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice enjoyed her first dance recital and did great. We had to bribe her to get her costume on ("Alice, want a cookie?", and I quickly turn her into a mouse. Voila!), but she loved the dancing! We've loved our little neighborhood dance group, and it's been a GREAT introduction for the really little ones, like Alice.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7019/6551071759_c88d5b5248_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7019/6551071759_c88d5b5248.jpg" /></a></div><br />In the Green Room, Alice loved the attention from the older girls. They were all dancing to selections from the Nutcracker. Fun!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7032/6551072969_b9059eae52_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7032/6551072969_b9059eae52.jpg" /></a></div><br />I'm a street musician lover. During my long days/evenings downtown last week, I had a short break and ran to do a bit of shopping. I ran into these guys busting out their brass. Not a huge brass fan, but honestly, it goes GREAT with the season. I was so happy to see a little variety downtown. Love the bagpipers, but really... one on EACH side of temple square? Enough already!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7016/6551075049_f66fa94545_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7016/6551075049_f66fa94545.jpg" /></a></div><br />Any favorite firsts this season? Or, favorite street musicians you've seen? I remember seeing a girl belting it out with a mandolin when I was about 13 at Pike's Market in Seattle, and I've never forgotten it. Awesome.Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-21623056343570132152011-12-17T02:31:00.003+07:002011-12-17T02:48:28.661+07:00Halloween... seriously.Found fun pictures I didn't want to forget...<br /><br />The annual Pumpkin patch trip is always a highlight for us. The mud this year added an interesting aspect.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7032/6522124705_fd2dfedb15_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7032/6522124705_fd2dfedb15.jpg" /></a></div><br />I think every kid likes getting one "just my size".<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7001/6522125907_4c61286870_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7001/6522125907_4c61286870.jpg" /></a></div><br />Trip to "Little Spooks" at This is the Place. Very fun, and even with cousins and Mimi this year!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7007/6522126845_182e53bb74_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7007/6522126845_182e53bb74.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7175/6522127569_1e9402e5fd_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7175/6522127569_1e9402e5fd.jpg" /></a></div><br />Carving those pumpkins was fun and messy. I did my usual copying of a pattern from a book I bought 7 years ago (so creative), Jack (and Jeff) gave his a nose like Voldemort, and our 3rd was done by our special guest. His FIRST pumpkin carving experience ever!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7013/6522129639_de3c35df1e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7013/6522129639_de3c35df1e.jpg" /></a></div><br />Crazy cousin time at Mimi and Papa's.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7151/6522131569_363595fd97_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7151/6522131569_363595fd97.jpg" /></a></div><br />Cousins at Grandma and Grandpa's who have apparently been all "fun"ed out. Maybe we should have done pictures FIRST?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7145/6522133607_c0dfc3ce9d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7145/6522133607_c0dfc3ce9d.jpg" /></a></div><br />And, the kids on "the big night". No trunk-or-treats this year, so we did it the old fashioned way, and I loved it. Nice weather, walking around, seeing friends and neighbors, FUN! Alice went MUCH further than expected, and Jane got too tired of asking at every house "do they have a dog?" and ran home to pass out candy with Daddy.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7151/6522135419_4248895612_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7151/6522135419_4248895612.jpg" /></a></div><br />The girls pretty much changed their costumes THAT day, so thank goodness for good dress ups! Jane decided she wasn't ONLY a princess (until this dress was hand-me-downed to her by a dear neighbor friend, she was going to be a witch), she had to be a short-haired Rapunzel. Frying pan and all. Jack wasn't great with his timing, but the expression would have been about right.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7163/6522137283_ceba582b92_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7163/6522137283_ceba582b92.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice fell in love when our neighbor opened the door in THIS. I felt like we were in Disneyland! It was a challenge to get her off the porch!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7029/6522139185_c891773736_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7029/6522139185_c891773736.jpg" /></a></div><br />Having kids has made Halloween one of my favorite holidays ever. And next year... we'll have ONE more kid to enjoy it! Baby is coming in MAY!Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-55844478721811487822011-11-27T03:31:00.003+07:002011-11-27T03:49:33.743+07:00Pinewood DerbyAs far as I can tell, the Pinewood Derby is the height of the Scouting calendar. It did NOT disappoint!<br /><br />Jack and Jeff worked on his car for several evenings spanning the weeks prior, and Jack was beside himself.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7006/6407038517_bf88823a4a_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7006/6407038517_bf88823a4a.jpg" /></a></div><br />This picture was after a couple of races. He wasn't all smiles as he watched his car though, which made me wonder if he realized that he was winning each heat. He told me later he knew he was winning, but didn't dare hope to actually WIN.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7021/6407040817_7e9a07b605_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7021/6407040817_7e9a07b605.jpg" /></a></div><br />We think Jane was his lucky charm. She quietly went to the kid's corner and made this sign for him. She's the best sister ever.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7014/6407042841_d1ee02993b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7014/6407042841_d1ee02993b.jpg" /></a></div><br />When WE realized that Jack might actually take the cake, we realized we'd only prepared him to be a good loser, not a gracious winner. (We'd heard too many stories of disappointment and tears!). Jeff ran over to brief him, and he was fine. I guess we need to have a little more faith next time. We knew he'd spent a lot of time and effort, but you just never know! There were some REALLY fast cars!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7023/6407044835_b347ec54f9_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7023/6407044835_b347ec54f9.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jack was glowing all evening, and we were so happy that all his afternoons of sanding had paid off!Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-58130126629715724722011-11-27T03:16:00.004+07:002011-11-27T03:29:50.186+07:00Jane is 6Or, turned six in September. It's been a while, but I didn't want it to go undocumented...<br /><br />Here's Jane with her poster from her Kindergarten class. She LOVED this. They obviously asked her great questions because everything they wrote down was absolutely accurate!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6113/6406964609_8ef4f35ca1_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6113/6406964609_8ef4f35ca1.jpg" /></a></div><br />The morning of her birthday, I don't know what she liked more: her treasure hunt with presents in obscure places, or the actual presents!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7019/6406967149_2b6ed43104_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7019/6406967149_2b6ed43104.jpg" /></a></div><br />She'd been begging for a Rapunzel cake. This was the best I could do. It was fun, but stressful to decide how to do it. I ended up copying it almost exactly off of a blog I found. Someday she'll realize I am not creative... what will I do then?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7173/6406969569_eb7869520e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7173/6406969569_eb7869520e.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jeff took a half day and we went to the city pool, one of Jane's favorite activities. We swam for hours. It was a fun and tiring afternoon. Jane was in heaven!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6040/6406970565_115db10c4e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6040/6406970565_115db10c4e.jpg" /></a></div><br />The week after her birthday, our big 6 year old performed in her first violin recital with her new teacher. Jack had a small accident with some scissors while making a birthday present for Jane that didn't allow him to participate, so she was the big star of the night. She did GREAT!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7016/6406971451_9da67710e6_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7016/6406971451_9da67710e6.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6240/6406972257_870c94cce4_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6240/6406972257_870c94cce4.jpg" /></a></div><br />We only got these two pictures, because we videoed the actual performance. Wish we could do both at once!Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-31420842407927158312011-09-02T12:33:00.003+07:002011-09-02T12:47:39.320+07:00School daysSchool and I have a love/hate relationship.
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<br />I LOVE back to school shopping, the excitement of that first day. I just HATE knowing I won't have my kids with me as much as I want.
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<br />Jack, however, was all LOVE. He couldn't WAIT for 3rd grade!
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<br />This has become his typical "I'm so excited I can hardly contain it!" photo.
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<br />I LOVE the structure of the school year, yet HATE to give up my freedom of taking off somewhere whenever we want!
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<br />But, this IS a big year. Jane FINALLY gets to start school! She's been counting down the days. (I love how Alice is looking at her)
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<br />Jane is a big Kindergartener, and finally gets to play on that playground she's talked about for 2 years!
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<br />I had no idea what to expect with this unpredictable child. She gave us quick kisses and the aides let her in the door, and she was off! NOT ONE SECOND of HESITATION. I almost cried. But instead, I was overcome with gratitude and pride for my independent girl.
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<br />I still feel like taking pictures of her every day. She is such a darling little school girl. And, in the last week she's gone from <span style="font-style: italic;">preferring</span> dresses and skirts, to <span style="font-style: italic;">refusing</span> to wear almost anything else. Hopefully those knee-high socks will keep her warm enough in the winter!
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<br />Alice and I now have 2 hours in the afternoons. After a summer hiatus, I've started sweeping my floors again! The possibilities are endless!
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<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-89338686191567972582011-08-03T12:50:00.005+07:002011-11-27T03:35:42.087+07:00Everything is better with Cousins...... and aunts, uncles, grandparents, great-grandparents, and siblings.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">(JUST found this post, and didn't realize I never published. I'm so on top of it!)</span><br /><br />We've enjoyed family, family, and more family time this summer. This is why we love Utah. Family!<br /><br />Jack and Ellie in a partici-play at the Ogden Treehouse museum...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/6004589834_bb2c385ae2_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/6004589834_bb2c385ae2.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br />Jason, Ellie, and Jeff (in that order) on our almost-hike to Donut falls...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6011/6004590436_4b20567067_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6011/6004590436_4b20567067.jpg" /></a></div><br />Almost the whole crew...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6147/6004591124_260744fb20_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6147/6004591124_260744fb20.jpg" /></a></div><br />Partially-dressed 2 year olds blowing bubbles...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/6004591662_4d194cc894_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/6004591662_4d194cc894.jpg" /></a></div><br />Movie night...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6003/6004045937_bf766992c1_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6003/6004045937_bf766992c1.jpg" /></a></div><br />I can't believe Jane and Mia actually slept here... (our under the stairs dress-up room)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6148/6004592684_15a5279633_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6148/6004592684_15a5279633.jpg" /></a></div><br />A trip to the Copper Mine with Hawkin cousins and bonus friends...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/6004046787_5393d6e785_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/6004046787_5393d6e785.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice loving the carousel with Mimi, but NOT the actual horses.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6023/6004593358_ec04c50fdf_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6023/6004593358_ec04c50fdf.jpg" /></a></div><br />Pioneer cousins trying to look authentic with a non-smiling picture. It was harder for some than others.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/6004047727_0a208fea9d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/6004047727_0a208fea9d.jpg" /></a></div><br />Of course, the true personalities come out...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/6004048131_26c3804122_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/6004048131_26c3804122.jpg" /></a></div><br />They asked us to play a few numbers in preparation for the shoot-out show. It felt just like old times.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6128/6004048651_d94850384d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6128/6004048651_d94850384d.jpg" /></a></div><br />More silly pioneers.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/6004595352_d28200034f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/6004595352_d28200034f.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice and Drew waiting for the big kids at the dentist...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6028/6004595818_7f3b7147ed_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6028/6004595818_7f3b7147ed.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jane and Ellie enjoying Memory Grover together...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6146/6004596206_6218a3184d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6146/6004596206_6218a3184d.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice and LuLu were hilarious in the tub. I love how Alice is looking at her.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6006/6004050371_694c6239f1_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6006/6004050371_694c6239f1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Donut falls attempt #2. End of July = no snow (thank goodness). We made it this time!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/6004051191_0a8b77b232_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/6004051191_0a8b77b232.jpg" /></a></div><br />1st annual Rich Family Fun Run starting line...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6139/6004051861_b7dc508227_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6139/6004051861_b7dc508227.jpg" /></a></div><br />It was INTENSE. Ok, the Rich's aren't super competitive, so it was a nice, happy run for all.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6123/6004598388_657e396784_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6123/6004598388_657e396784.jpg" /></a></div><br />Oh, the blessings of family and cousins!Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-85778454856876586432011-08-01T10:28:00.006+07:002011-08-03T10:24:39.466+07:00Pioneer childrenWe continued volunteering at This Is The Place this summer. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6123/5996781876_1912ebbd80_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6123/5996781876_1912ebbd80.jpg" /></a></div><br />We rarely get pictures while we are in the village because we try to keep any technology tucked away. It was nice to have family visit and shoot some photos for us.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6131/5996228747_6fca24febd_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6131/5996228747_6fca24febd.jpg" /></a></div><br />Grandma and Grandpa Ottley with us at the Charles C. Rich home. Love you, Grandma and Grandpa.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6003/5996231111_109670b59c_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6003/5996231111_109670b59c.jpg" /></a></div><br />During our Rich reunion, we made the entire family dress up and come with us.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6025/5996794524_1a1cd6ddb3_b.jpg"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6146/5996802276_378afdb65e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6146/5996802276_378afdb65e.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice eating snack outside the house.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6121/5996803702_b95b430dea_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6121/5996803702_b95b430dea.jpg" /></a></div><br />This day, I took the children to the school house. While the others were practicing the Deseret Alphabet with chalk and tablets, Alice found this doll and played "mommy" for a while.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6023/5996250953_f4701dfc9d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6023/5996250953_f4701dfc9d.jpg" /></a></div><br />The amount of pictures of each of my children tells a story. Alice is always in my arms or by my side, so almost all the pictures are of her. Jane wanders around the yard and house helping with chores, watering the plants, and playing with cousins. She keeps busy! Jack is hardly ever around. He is either coming or going, always planning the next adventure to the Indian village, train park, or the General Store. There's been something for everyone this summer, and we've loved our time there once again.Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-30197973021687464762011-08-01T06:55:00.005+07:002011-08-01T11:55:22.336+07:00Early Summer FunOur summer has been so full, blogging got knocked completely off the priority list! But, I have taken SOME pictures, so for those of you who we don't see or text constantly, this might be news to you!<br /><br />Our Alice turned Two years old in May. She's turned into our little parrot, repeating everything we say. Then saying it over, and over, and over. TWO definitely has its challenges, but it's also my favorite stage of each of my kids because everything seems new and exciting. I love it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/5996235313_46db242e5e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6002/5996235313_46db242e5e.jpg" /></a></div><br />It's hard to believe our "made in Thailand" baby is already TWO.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/5996236527_c76270098a_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6026/5996236527_c76270098a.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jane had her very first dance recital in June. I had no idea if she would love it or burst into tears and refuse to go on stage. If Jane was a character in the "Little Miss..." series, she would be"Little Miss Unpredictable".<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6030/5996237307_e16f114814_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6030/5996237307_e16f114814.jpg" /></a></div><br />Luckily, she loved it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6003/5996792822_a2dbdffcd2_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6003/5996792822_a2dbdffcd2.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Jane also had another first... her first lost tooth. I don't remember losing my first tooth, so I made sure we recorded it in her journal because it was a good story. (She lost her 2nd tooth exactly one week later, almost swallowing it along with a grilled cheese sandwich!)<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6009/5996795976_0a42e06fe2_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6009/5996795976_0a42e06fe2.jpg" /></a></div><br />We went on a short hike with the Hillmans during our reunion, which was made even shorter because there was still SNOW in mid-June. Seriously.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6136/5996793820_d8dd420844_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6136/5996793820_d8dd420844.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jack has been loving scouts. This year, his troop did Aeoronopolis. It's basically where you build an "airplane" and race around the gym. He was taking it very seriously, except when it came to the pit-stop where you have to snarf a saltine cracker and water. He doesn't like to eat quickly. Other kids were running off with their mouths stuffed full, and he was standing there chewing each little bite. His book might just be titled "Mr. I'm in no hurry".<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6025/5996794524_1a1cd6ddb3_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6025/5996794524_1a1cd6ddb3.jpg" /></a></div><br />We had a fantastic 4th of July this year. A spontaneous getaway, small town festivities, and great friends/neighbors for fireworks and s'mores. Alice even enjoyed the loud fireworks once our neighbor busted out her ear protection. This may just be my favorite 4th of July photo ever.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6009/5996796918_e7cd57c7e9_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6009/5996796918_e7cd57c7e9.jpg" /></a></div><br />My girls have done a LOT of chalk art this summer. The usual masterpiece always includes at least one Rapunzel. This one had the genuine hair length.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6012/5996797804_4cbcb82bf7_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6012/5996797804_4cbcb82bf7.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice loved her first golfing experience during our Rich reunion. She was much better at looking cute than actually golfing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/5996799202_a1dd0237e2_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/5996799202_a1dd0237e2.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jeff and I ran on a RAGNAR team sponsored by his company. Except for losing one runner during his first leg, it was a perfect weekend. We ran, we ate, we got a little bit of sleep, and had a great time with a really fun team. One thing we didn't do... take pictures. Pathetically, this was our best photo.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6146/5996247849_bae091cecf_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6146/5996247849_bae091cecf.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jack wanted money for scout camp so he could buy things that break. My words, not his. He and Jane sold snow cones for 2 afternoons and he earned as much as he needed. It was one of his first entrepreneurial ventures, and I was amazed at what he learned from day one to day two. They had a great time.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/5996804782_1f28b9f893_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/5996804782_1f28b9f893.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jane finished up her online preschool last month. We LOVED it and would recommend it to everyone. Although, in some ways, I wish I would just have kept my mouth shut because the waiting list now holds over 400. Darnit. These are the characters, Rusty and Rosy, that took her through her lessons. She was so thrilled to graduate! On to Kindergarten!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6022/5996251579_799d5139f9_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6022/5996251579_799d5139f9.jpg" /></a></div>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-16447475252081118112011-05-27T05:38:00.005+07:002011-06-01T10:56:45.172+07:00A good dayJack is now EIGHT. On April 30th, 2011 he was baptized. 23 years to the DAY that I was baptized myself.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2400/5784360193_5876c7f9fe_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2400/5784360193_5876c7f9fe.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size:78%;">(Alice just had to sneak into this one)<br /></span></div><br />It was a good day shared by family and dear friends.<br /><br />Things Jack does now that he's SO grown up...<br /><br />Goes to scouts each week. He even rides his bike to his den meetings (with me watching him from the porch!) He could hardly wait for this rite of passage. And he's counting down the days until his day camp in July. What could be more fun?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2002/5784915848_ce7e290ac4_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2002/5784915848_ce7e290ac4.jpg" /></a></div><br />He used birthday money to buy a pocket knife. He's been waiting for this day since he was five. Scary? Yes.<br /><br />He has his own scriptures and scripture case that he loves.<br /><br />He's having "the guys" over for a movie/play/end of school party that will most likely go later than 8pm. Hoping we don't regret that one!<br /><br />He mowed a big portion of our front lawn this week and only missed a few spots!<br /><br />And, he helped Jeff move a sprinkler head on Saturday. You wouldn't believe how excited he gets when Jeff asks him to help!<br /><br />He's a big 8 year old, and we're loving every minute of it!<br /><br />Here's a peek at his Harry Potter birthday cake, which I'm pretty sure is my favorite cake so far. They were pretending to be scared of <span style="font-style: italic;">The Monster Book of Monsters. </span>Except Jane, nothing phases her (when she's not hot, cold, tired, hungry, or has lost something. Love that girl). How could you be scared of something that tastes so good anyway? Notice the <span style="font-style: italic;">Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans</span> and the <span style="font-style: italic;">Golden Galleons</span>. I was trying really hard to be creative. Thank you creative moms that post ideas online... it was FUN.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2716/5784359679_b413a86243_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2716/5784359679_b413a86243.jpg" /></a></div>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-19898013352689506992011-04-14T10:27:00.006+07:002011-04-15T12:34:14.501+07:00Spring BreakSpring break took us to California in celebration of Jack's birthday! Can you believe I have a child who is almost EIGHT?<br /><br />We've wanted to do Sea World for some time now, and we were not disappointed. May I indulge and relive a few favorite moments? Maybe a few more than a few.<br /><br />There is so much fascination under the water. Jane watched these Beluga whales for as long as we had time. Then, we went back three more times.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5309/5617717875_651a2529d6_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5309/5617717875_651a2529d6.jpg" /></a></div><br />It was awesome having a one year old who will sit and enjoy shows. In fact, she probably said the word "show" (show, show, show, show) thousands of times.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5617718587_286d359e5d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5617718587_286d359e5d.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice totally knows how cute she is. We found this little nightgown shortly before we left and were not surprised to discover that Alice adores it as much as Jane did!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5066/5617719063_e930825319_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5066/5617719063_e930825319.jpg" /></a></div><br />Our hotel was ON the beach, so we rolled out of bed and enjoyed! Pretty sure Jack was pretending to be Calvin nailing Suzie with mud balls.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5065/5617719233_005ca9c611_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5065/5617719233_005ca9c611.jpg" /></a></div><br />We'd heard mixed things about LEGOLAND, but mostly that it was awesome. I can hardly resist doing new things, especially since I knew our birthday boy would be in heaven! He was.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5027/5617719525_7b1c63607b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5027/5617719525_7b1c63607b.jpg" /></a></div><br />Parents wait in line, kids play... (at least for <span style="font-style: italic;">some</span> of the rides, but we'll take it!)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5617719719_62d009ab31_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5617719719_62d009ab31.jpg" /></a></div><br />The Lego city was fantastic! We even found our Vegas hotel! I went back at the end of the day with just Alice and she stared at "New York" for at least 30 minutes. Completely amazing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5023/5617719873_ff4c2f936b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5023/5617719873_ff4c2f936b.jpg" /></a></div><br />The DUPLO area won Alice over as well. In a park with rides, shows, and all kinds of things, it was a SLIDE that was hard to get her away from. Just goes to show... kids don't need fancy things to have fun. Don't need it, but it sure is fun!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5069/5618305380_6f0bc89c99_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5069/5618305380_6f0bc89c99.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jane and I spent an afternoon at Sea World, just the two of us, and had a great time doing whatever SHE wanted to do. Such a fun time together. On the walk home, it started to pour! By the time we arrived at the hotel, there was the most gorgeous double rainbow. If I didn't already love San Diego, I did after that afternoon. What a beautiful part of our country.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5182/5617720811_56700ac9fd_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5182/5617720811_56700ac9fd.jpg" /></a></div><br />We love humid climates, and this one did a number on Alice's hair. Her hair was curlier than ever!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5110/5618306402_9887a9412f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5110/5618306402_9887a9412f.jpg" /></a></div><br />One of our favorite days was spent in Old Town San Diego. We started out at the Mormon Battalion Museum, and were SO impressed. I won't ruin it for you, but if you're in the area, it is not to be missed! Jack was sporting some of the Battalion's gear, and feeling pretty cool.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5270/5617720177_9f1b8610be_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5270/5617720177_9f1b8610be.jpg" /></a></div><br />We panned for gold, and actually found some!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5108/5618305704_0de1b42a06_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5108/5618305704_0de1b42a06.jpg" /></a></div><br />Then, we headed to the center of Old Town and had an awesome experience visiting the first San Diego courthouse, a darling candy shop, and eating delicious Mexican food. The musicians had just left our table. You can almost make out that GREEN fiddle.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5618305854_6edcf335f4_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5618305854_6edcf335f4.jpg" /></a></div><br />The weather reports predicted thunder storms. Look at those blue skies!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5148/5618306010_e95c9f965d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5148/5618306010_e95c9f965d.jpg" /></a></div><br />We spent a morning at the San Diego Children's Museum. It was a completely different museum than we've experienced before. Besides these fun little carts, it was mostly art-related exhibits. It was fun to see a different approach, and the kids had a great time.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5223/5618306558_949328e1e5_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5223/5618306558_949328e1e5.jpg" /></a></div><br />Why not make a big sculpture, put paint in buckets and hand out gigantic paint brushes?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5304/5617721285_dd1815331a_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5304/5617721285_dd1815331a.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice was so happy.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5617721431_c65c16370a_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5617721431_c65c16370a.jpg" /></a></div><br />Bubbles with pipe cleaners. Simple and brilliant.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5181/5618307006_1494e515f6_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5181/5618307006_1494e515f6.jpg" /></a></div><br />They had a lesson on perspective, then made cardboard creations, and ended with taking pictures of each child and their creation with "perspective". We couldn't get the right angle when they did Jack's, but essentially it looked like he was hanging onto the bottom of his airplane. We thought maybe they knew we were coming and created this table just for Jack.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5108/5618307226_912f43c619_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5108/5618307226_912f43c619.jpg" /></a></div><br />We loved our hotel, especially the pools and landscaping. Gorgeous. Alice even warmed up to the pool after a bit. I'm anxious to get her in the pool more often this summer.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5618307360_142018290b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5618307360_142018290b.jpg" /></a></div><br />This girl only took two naps out of the eight days we were gone. Before this, she's only missed a nap once. I couldn't believe how well she adapted! Since then, she's been sleeping in until after 9am, AND taking naps. Making up for lost time!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5062/5618307944_f8861236d1_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5062/5618307944_f8861236d1.jpg" /></a></div><br />The best part of the trip? Watching our kids have fun, fun, fun. They love each other, and play so well. It was fun to be able to sit back and enjoy it with very few distractions for a full week.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5149/5618304750_2192519b45_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5149/5618304750_2192519b45.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">They are so silly.<br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5264/5618304206_546c6fae2c_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5264/5618304206_546c6fae2c.jpg" /></a></div><br />And sweet.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5062/5617722277_953d1ac349_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5062/5617722277_953d1ac349.jpg" /></a></div><br />And if we hadn't already seen enough fish to last us a lifetime, THIS was in our Vegas hotel on the way home. The kids were still intrigued, especially when the Mermaid came out. Kind of weird, but it's Vegas, so what do you expect?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5108/5618308080_d25e160c80_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5108/5618308080_d25e160c80.jpg" /></a></div><br />Now for adjusting to real life once again...Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-28989818766465981242011-03-14T09:33:00.005+07:002011-03-14T10:35:12.165+07:00Peter and the WolfAs a mother, I find myself assuming my kids will love what I love. I can't imagine why someone wouldn't absolutely LOVE watching musicals, playing basketball, or listening to the Beatles. Sometimes I know exactly what I'm doing, other times, I don't realize it until Jeff give me the "are you sure <span style="font-style: italic;">they</span> like it?" look .<br /><br />I hate to think I'm <span style="font-style: italic;">only</span> exposing my kids to what I love, so I like to give them fair information, and let them decide. Except that one time when Jack started saying he wanted to learn how to play a brass instrument. I told him they weren't very fun, and just too loud. Not a huge fan.<br /><br />The reality of it is that kids are mostly a product of their environment. So, we expose them to things that we think will be good for them. Obviously, music has been a big part of Jeff and I's relationship from the beginning. We met in an orchestra, became friends in a bluegrass band, toured to Europe in said band, and have since played several gigs, and supported each other in various musical interests. Most of our favorite date memories come from going to the Symphony. We catalog our date details by what concerto or symphony was played that evening. If you haven't thought we're nerds by now, then you probably are one yourself. We know <span style="font-style: italic;">we</span> are, and we're fine with it.<br /><br />So, as we sat in Abravanel Hall with Jack and Jane yesterday for one of the "lollipop" concerts, my heart was overflowing. I loved being able to sit in that concert hall with not just Jeff, but with my own kids. I have so many memories there, starting when I was not much older than Jack, performing with hundreds of Suzuki students. We had high hopes that their attitudes of that morning...<br /><br />Me: Jack, are you excited about the Symphony today?<br /><br />Jack: Not really.<br /><br /><br />Me: Jane, are you excited about the Symphony today?<br /><br />Jane: Is there going to be any singing?<br /><br />Me: Nope, just the Symphony. There will be violins, cellos, basses, drums, flutes...<br /><br />Jane: No singing? BOR-ING!<br /><br />... we were hoping this concert would change their ideas of the Symphony.<br /><br />Jane was a bit fidgety as they began, wanting to get just the right view. Luckily, in concerts intended for kids, this is okay. Lucky for us, because Jane <span style="font-style: italic;">always</span> has commentary and only has one volume. She and Jack got through the first two short pieces (Jack more interested than Jane) by anticipating the reason we came: Peter and the Wolf.<br /><br />As it started, Jack was completely captivated by the story unfolding before him. And Jane couldn't take her eyes off the dancers. (She started a ballet/jazz class last month that she can't seem to get enough of. She now prances down our hallway.)<br /><br />I was so tickled to watch them enjoy the performance wholeheartedly. It was short and sweet, and the narrator, symphony, and characters from Ballet West were just right.<br /><br />As we walked out into the hallway after the show, Jack asked, "do they have shows for kids like this all the <span style="font-style: italic;">time</span>?".<br /><br />I promised him we'd be back. This time because <span style="font-style: italic;">he</span> wants to.<br /><br />Jane doing her duck sound, and Jack letting out his pent-up sillies...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5012/5524587657_7e663db710_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5012/5524587657_7e663db710.jpg" /></a></div><br />Another great memory created.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5297/5524587925_aaa766a82c_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5297/5524587925_aaa766a82c.jpg" /></a></div>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-87260094415456460952011-01-18T10:24:00.005+07:002011-01-18T11:00:19.221+07:00Lots of Locks<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Said the mother, tired of split ends,<br />To her daughter with hair full of bends,<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5207/5365456535_f44fd6fc5f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5207/5365456535_f44fd6fc5f.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Our long hair we will doff,<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5087/5366070410_75fed695f2_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5087/5366070410_75fed695f2.jpg" /></a></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Yes, we'll cut it all off,<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5249/5365455711_f5f5b1d1fc_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5249/5365455711_f5f5b1d1fc.jpg" /></a></div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">And give it to our <a href="http://www.locksoflove.org/causes.html">bald-headed friends.</a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5166/5366071234_0be1605f25_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5166/5366071234_0be1605f25.jpg" /></a></div> </div></div><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">Poem by Jeff.</span>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-22493355748835317172011-01-08T00:40:00.008+07:002011-01-10T11:09:36.024+07:00Answer: A yearI really wanted to get everything we could out of this holiday break. My success in doing so has been confirmed by us having a VERY rough week getting back to real life. It's fun to lose the routine, stay up late, sleep in, visit family, get projects done, eat loads, and have entire days of being out of the house, right? RIGHT?<br /><br />We've reminisced a lot this week about the holidays, like it was ages ago. Thank goodness we caught a few of our favorite moments with the camera. Ironically enough, my very favorite moments all had to do with music, and you just can't quite do them justice with pictures!<br /><br />Here's one...<br /><br />I took the kids to the nursing home my <a href="http://thailand-hillmans.blogspot.com/2009_07_01_archive.html">Grandma</a> lived in for the last several years of her life. I love my Grandma and will forever think of her at Christmas time. We met many nice residents there and the kids (especially Jane) loved playing their violins and singing for them while they lounged, got pedicures, and ate their lunch.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5341730594_8956fc341f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5341730594_8956fc341f.jpg" /></a></div><br />And another...<br /><br />Singing Christmas carols on Christmas Eve with our Christmas crowd. Love that. My brother was smart and married a pianist, something our family has definitely lacked! But that's not the only reason we love Aunt Danielle.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5130/5341111561_c296fafcc9_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5130/5341111561_c296fafcc9.jpg" /></a></div><br />And of course... I'm still glowing from <a href="http://broadcast.lds.org/newsroom/2010-12-1700-choir-b-roll-1500k-eng.mov">this</a> whole experience.<br /><br />How about my kids and their cousins (and myself, my sisters, brothers, and mother) dancing their little hearts out to my sister's new Wii game. I haven't danced and laughed like that in a while! I love (hate at first, but in the end love) things that break through our cushy bubbles of comfort.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5341113019_2bdee7c61d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5341113019_2bdee7c61d.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jack's favorites most likely revolved around two things... cousins and toys. Pretty typical kid. His grandparents and Santa sure know his style. They spoiled him with a science kit and legos that he's hardly put away. He and Jeff built all kinds of things with his Circuit board kit and even were able to transmit their own voices through the AM radio stations with it. Very cool for a budding engineer!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5042/5341724388_57cf038d11_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5042/5341724388_57cf038d11.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jane loved her new dress-ups and her adorable doll, Rainbow. She names all her dolls to sound like Care Bears (which she has never even heard of) or My Little Ponies (which she has almost every one of). My vote was for Molly, or Suzie, but no. Rainbow, it is!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5341725590_017d007d5c_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5341725590_017d007d5c.jpg" /></a></div><br />Another favorite of Jane's... Sledding.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5170/5341112629_2f921b83a2_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5170/5341112629_2f921b83a2.jpg" /></a></div><br />Of course, sledding it always more fun with cousins who join you in (and encourage) doing crazy things on your way down each time. These two were nuts.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5088/5341117187_2be5d8151d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5088/5341117187_2be5d8151d.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice's favorite moments... using her new doll crib for herself. Doesn't she look cozy? Thank goodness she barely breaks 20 lbs!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5083/5341113497_e8fa1c10e6_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5083/5341113497_e8fa1c10e6.jpg" /></a></div><br />Eating all the goodies we received from neighbors, or just made ourselves. I couldn't/didn't resist either.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5129/5341115673_2b52f8ff2b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5129/5341115673_2b52f8ff2b.jpg" /></a></div><br />Lounging with Papa at our 2nd annual Rich Family holiday gathering on New Year's Day at <a href="http://http//www.mynoahs.com/">Noah's</a>. If you ever go there, ask for Jesse. He's the best. Of course, I might be a bit biased since I grew up being mom #4 to the poor kid. That's what you get when you have 3 older sisters! We ate all the holiday leftovers, and played raquetball, pool, arcade games, wii games, rock band something or other (I was an awesome drummer)...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5208/5341117849_341688693a_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5208/5341117849_341688693a.jpg" /></a></div><br />...and discovered that Vanessa is by far the better ping pong player out of the sisters. Who would have guessed? Look at that form!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5208/5341729648_1637ec4d94_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5208/5341729648_1637ec4d94.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jeff's favorite holiday moment... our date night on New Year's Eve with Joanna and Laren. As close as I am to my sisters, I'm amazed that we've never gone out together like that before! We had dinner, went bowling (where we ended up trying to beat our speed record rather than knocking pins down), and then welcomed in the new year at Comedy Sportz in Provo. I expected to have fun, but I honestly haven't laughed like that in years.<br /><br />Other fun pictures... Christmas eve in front of the tree. Seriously... my kids are so fun.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5207/5341727972_3d9abb3db0_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5207/5341727972_3d9abb3db0.jpg" /></a></div><br />Tired, but too excited to admit it on Christmas morning. Oh, that was fun!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5341114169_5f08bc2441_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5341114169_5f08bc2441.jpg" /></a></div><br />And everyone, minus my mom and myself, on the stairs waiting to go see if Santa came! It was so fun to share our home with my parents and Jesse and Danielle this year. It reminds me of why living in Utah is great... family.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5289/5341729000_fb44ca67db_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5289/5341729000_fb44ca67db.jpg" /></a></div><br />So, after a rough week of dragging ourselves out of bed, trying to practice again, catching up on housework, church calling stuff, homework, projects that have been on hold, putting decorations away, and the worst, sending Jeff back to work, there have been times where I've wondered if it's worth it! In the end though, I think we'd all agree... I'm just dramatic. Of course it's worth it!<br /><br />The other day:<br /><br />Jane: I know how many more days until Christmas!<br /><br />Me: Great. (Thinking we're going to have to start the countdown already!) How many?<br /><br />Jane: A year.Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-70732240915849620202010-12-20T04:23:00.008+07:002010-12-20T10:22:40.962+07:00It's almost here!Along with the rest of the world, we're counting down the days to Christmas. Which, in reality, isn't the fun all in the anticipation?<br /><br />Forgive me for reliving a few of our favorite anticipatory activities.<br /><br />Day after Thanksgiving... out came the Christmas tree, on came the music (I think Jeff will scream if he has to hear Christmas music even one day past the actual day), and we ventured to one of our favorite places to start the season off right.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5046/5274871265_861a1e5557_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5046/5274871265_861a1e5557.jpg" /></a></div><br />Have I shared how much we love This is the Place National Park? I'm kidding. I know I've talked about it (and talked and talked), but in the last 6-7 months, we've made a LOT of memories there. We added another evening of memories when we went to enjoy <span style="font-style: italic;">Candlelight Christmas</span> the night after Thanksgiving. It was the first time we'd been, and I dare say (which I don't do lightly, because I have a problem with committing) it's a new tradition. We all loved it.<br /><br />Jack signed the "nice" list. Mostly true. Jeff was lured into signing the "naughty" list though, since the candy was better for the "naughty". Go figure.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5130/5275480364_83e749c0a7_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5130/5275480364_83e749c0a7.jpg" /></a></div><br />We spent the evening wandering from house to house hearing stories, making crafts, and dancing around the Christmas tree, to live music, I might add. We enjoyed a live puppet show...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5007/5274872937_012a6d94b3_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5007/5274872937_012a6d94b3.jpg" /></a></div><br />...drank hot chocolate<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5285/5274869913_81731a18de_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5285/5274869913_81731a18de.jpg" /></a></div><br />...and couldn't get enough of their amazing carolers. They wandered around the village, so we were lucky to hear them a few different times. The kids were a little more interested in their craft at this moment, but I could have listened to them all night long. And I loved the costuming.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5042/5274868393_01b05af068_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5042/5274868393_01b05af068.jpg" /></a></div><br />We drove home to the kids singing "Up on the Housetop". Or at least the words that we actually know of it. It was such a nice, low-key evening, that reminded us of the simplicity of Christmas. Everyone was happy.<br /><br />Or, should I say... we <span style="font-style: italic;">were</span> all happy, until we discovered that our picture with Father Christmas was BLURRY! Very disappointing. Although, we felt everything else was so perfect, we could let this one go.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5121/5275477476_0fc338abe6_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5121/5275477476_0fc338abe6.jpg" /></a></div><br />My favorite part about Christmas shopping... Amazon. Love it. Anyone else giving their UPS man a present this year? I've seen him more this month than some of my neighbors!<br /><br />We've enjoyed two different evenings on Temple Square this year. One evening was to listen to my niece's choir sing. It was a lovely evening, only to be enhanced by Mimi and Papa taking our kids home to bed, and Jeff and I enjoying an evening at the Symphony. Oh, I love a good date with the hubby.<br /><br />Alice... during our most recent light-seeing evening/one hour I got to see Jeff that day. She finally let me put mittens on her. Well, one.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5206/5274867647_2d9dd94125_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5206/5274867647_2d9dd94125.jpg" /></a></div><br />I just finished playing in my favorite Christmas concert series yet. Oh, what a joy it is to play my violin with such accomplished musicians! I feel a bit unworthy to be surrounded by such high-caliber people, but at the same time so grateful for the opportunity. Jeff's been a rock this week in letting me run off to rehearsals and concerts.<br /><br />He stayed up one night to help Jack finish off his poster project... (Jack was dressed up for "famous person day")<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5086/5274870443_b8246414ea_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5086/5274870443_b8246414ea.jpg" /></a></div><br />... he took the kids to Jack's school Christmas concert... (they're beating along to a very lively version of <span style="font-style: italic;">Feliz Navidad</span>.)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5274870827_758d9f5d22_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5274870827_758d9f5d22.jpg" /></a></div><br />...the ward party last night (please note Jack's version of a shepherd's crook)...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5121/5274873457_0f556e58fe_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5121/5274873457_0f556e58fe.jpg" /></a></div><br />... and all month he's been a single parent for most of the church block. Talk about amazing.<br /><br />Then, Jeff lets me come home and tell him every detail about how fun it's all been. Wish I could say MUCH more.<br /><br />These are two of my favorite girls in the orchestra. Talk about high caliber people... these girls are leading the pack.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5244/5275480892_0070010cde_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5244/5275480892_0070010cde.jpg" /></a></div><br />It was a busy, exhausting, fun, and spiritually fulfilling week of Christmas spirit. Now, I get to actually be HOME and enjoy downtime with those I love more than anything.<br /><br />We hope you enjoy these fun last few days of anticipation! Merry Christmas!Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-35252054639120036102010-11-22T11:08:00.003+07:002010-11-22T11:28:57.400+07:0010 years<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:splitpgbreakandparamark/> <w:dontvertaligncellwithsp/> <w:dontbreakconstrainedforcedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> 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mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]-->As much as I don’t love to admit it, Jeff is right a lot of the time. He has a good, common sense, realistic perspective that usually makes more sense than whatever direction my emotions are tugging me at the moment. Or the next moment, which is usually an entirely different direction all together. When the idea of going away for our anniversary came up, we were both on board from the beginning. We realized that this could be our “perfect storm” to get away. Close to all the family, not pregnant, not nursing, vacation days to spare, and everyone is well adjusted and sleeping through the night. Then, I started having cold feet about leaving the children. Jeff said it would be worth it. He promised me the kids would be fine, and we would have the time of our lives. Of course, he was right. <br /><span style=""><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5196840229_f1a8e45e7b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5196840229_f1a8e45e7b.jpg" /></a></div><br />Reasons why I’m glad Jeff was right:<br /><br />1. We had an entire week of uninterrupted conversations, and even enough time together that we could simply enjoy shared silence. Who knew that could be such a treasure?<br /><br />2. We both love big cities. We love places we can go and NOT drive. We love to walk and make use of whatever public transportation cities have to offer. We’ve ridden trains, buses, trolleys, and monorails in cities all over the world, and we love seeing how each city has a unique take on moving its people.<br /><br />3. I mentioned walking. We walked and walked and walked. Miles and miles, hand in hand (not four hands in between us), over bad sidewalks at times even, but we didn’t notice because we had NO stroller. We love walking and exploring.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5197439170_8ac56045fc_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5197439170_8ac56045fc.jpg" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">One of our discoveries</span> <span style="font-size:78%;">while walking.</span></div><br />4. We visited the local market at least once each day, bought raspberries, watched them throw fish, ate delicious deli sandwiches, and enjoyed street musicians. I love street musicians. Good or bad, you gotta hand it to ‘em. That takes guts.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5197439558_8106a4aa19_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5197439558_8106a4aa19.jpg" /></a></div><br />6. We wandered into thrift and antique stores and browsed all we wanted. We even found some amazing polyester ties to add to Jeff’s collection. We couldn’t believe our luck!<br /><br />7. We visited museums and stayed as long (or as short) as we wanted. One we stayed for only 30 minutes, but our favorite (the Museum of flight) we stayed for several hours. We even walked through a retired Air Force One.<br /><br />8. We went to a comedy show one evening and didn’t even need to find a sitter.<br /><br />9. We didn’t stop our day for nap time, or to eat at places that serve chicken nuggets. We didn’t pack snacks, and we didn’t carry sippy cups. We ate wherever and whenever we wanted. Good food partnered by conversations with complete sentences. How do you beat that?<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5197439856_8efce6328b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5197439856_8efce6328b.jpg" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">520 ft up</span></div><br />10. We lay in our hotel bed, watched movies, TV shows, ate yummy things, and went to bed late. And then, we slept in. <br /><br />11. What should have been a 30 minute trip to find the temple, took us 2 hours. And we loved it.<br /><br />12. We found a trail along the waterfront and ran on it. Together. Twice. In all the years we’ve enjoyed running (more years for Jeff than for me), we’ve never, ever run together. We had two very nice 10K runs that we agree are two of our favorite memories of the week. (Cue the fantasies of when our kids are old enough to leave behind, and we get to do this regularly.)<br /><br />13. We were mistaken for honeymooners. That was fun, considering it’s been 10 years. And at the same time, our tour guide sang a lovely rendition of “Popcorn Popping” when he found out we were from Utah.<br /><br />14. We ate breakfast in a “hole in the wall” diner. Generally, I think it’s a waste to eat out for breakfast because I’m quite happy eating simple things for breakfast, and breakfast food for lunch or dinner (a staple in our house). But, we have a very specific memory of our time in San Francisco that included a breakfast diner we all fell in love with. So, we reminisced with food, and were not disappointed.<span style=""><span style=""><br /><br /></span></span>15. We watched glass blowers.<span style=""> </span>We never would have dared go past the front doors of that shop with the children.<br /><br />16. We found a candy shop.<span style=""> </span>We kind of like candy.<span style=""> </span>We felt like two kids in a candy shop.<span style=""> </span>Oh wait…<span style=""> </span>We picked two of every candy that looked good and sampled them all as we walked along the pier.<span style=""> </span>Fun.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5197438718_227a48fea6_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5197438718_227a48fea6.jpg" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I wasn’t going to blog about our trip because as we think back on it, that time feels almost sacred. That time together was so priceless. Then, after talking with our home teachers (who we adore), one of them was telling us about how he can’t get his wife to leave his children to take the 10 day trip to Rome he just won from his work. WHAT?!? Okay, I get it. It’s definitely hard to leave the children. And sometimes it felt like it would almost have been easier to take them. But, honestly, it was worth every bit of planning, coordinating, packing, and changing schedules. So, if you’re debating about taking a little time out for you and your spouse, do it. Make it happen. Because Jeff is right. It’s so worth it.<br /><br />P.S.<span style=""> </span>Thank you, family, for taking time out of YOUR busy schedules to make it possible.<span style=""> </span>Let’s talk about our number ONE blessing: it’s YOU.</div></div> <br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:78%;">The biggest thing lacking in our trip with no kids: no pictures of kids. They are much cuter than we are, as I'm sure you've already discovered.</span><br /><br /></div>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-18125393830023282092010-11-01T04:19:00.006+07:002010-11-01T10:59:18.394+07:00Halloween, of courseI love Halloween more and more each year. Thank goodness for children who keep the innocence of Halloween in tact.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1312/5134638998_4443e39364_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1312/5134638998_4443e39364.jpg" /></a></div><br />Oh, so many Halloween outings this year! Jane was the only one who wore the same costume each time. Alice gets the award for variety. Jack gets the award for being the only bloodless Dracula in town.<br /><br />The annual pumpkin picking event.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5134042023_64f2818c94_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5134042023_64f2818c94.jpg" /></a></div><br />They just HAD to try doing a wheelbarrow together, of course. I love fall. Shorts and sandals, topped off with a sweater all in one. Love it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/5134045205_2a7b2ab477_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/5134045205_2a7b2ab477.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jane may appear to be helping hollow out the pumpkins, but don't be deceived. This is the closest she came... holding up what I scooped out. A bit slimy for this child!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1187/5134043513_dff432761c_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1187/5134043513_dff432761c.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jeff and Jack did the scooping, while Alice and I did the dishes. Jane's a good cheerleader. Did I mention our dishwasher leaking, floor warping, and mold issue? No? Lucky you.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1173/5134640142_b9e03635f4_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1173/5134640142_b9e03635f4.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">This is The Place does a "Little Haunts" over UEA that was brilliant. My kids could have walked around that pioneer village and listened to that Story Witch for hours. Oh wait, we did. Alice was Jane's black cat, and Jack was Batman. I only had my phone, plus the lighting was weird, but I loved Alice's grin. I couldn't resist.<br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4055/5134642784_4ed3131522_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4055/5134642784_4ed3131522.jpg" /></a></div><br />If it's her idea, she loves the camera!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1204/5134639808_d42bd1476c_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1204/5134639808_d42bd1476c.jpg" /></a></div><br />For story time at the library, Alice was Dorothy, so I just kept her in her dress all day. Why not? I'll tell you why not...<br /><br />Not long before leaving for Grandma Hillman's Halloween party, I caught Alice doing this...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/5134642406_014222ed00_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/5134642406_014222ed00.jpg" /></a></div><br />... to the candy dish.<br /><br />She's got a sweet tooth. I'll claim that one. This resulted in a very sticky, spit-y Dorothy costume. <br /><br />So, she was a witch, just like her sister. And apparently Grandpa!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5134644780_4c5cf245e1_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5134644780_4c5cf245e1.jpg" /></a></div><br />The kids counted down all month to the NIGHT they got to dress up and go to the ward's Trunk or Treat. They were giddy with anticipation. They even tried taking off on Jane's broomstick, but didn't get very far.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4068/5134639578_66560b934f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4068/5134639578_66560b934f.jpg" /></a></div><br />We put Alice in the warmest thing we had, Tigger. The only time she's been fat in her life. Notice Jane opening her mouth at the same time as Alice. We all know that helps babies open up wider, right?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5134042677_3e3305d643_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5134042677_3e3305d643.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice enjoyed the evening's bounty.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5134044611_bbe270050c_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5134044611_bbe270050c.jpg" /></a></div><br />Our neighbors put on a haunted house that Jack thought was awesome, and I have to admit, it was fun. Jane wanted to go through at first, but she ended up in my arms and screamed like crazy when the masked kid came around the corner. It was a scream like I've<span style="font-style: italic;"> never</span> screamed. The kind they should bottle up for the movies. Then, after assuring the mother of the home that she was okay, while at the same time preparing my thoughts of what to tell the therapist we'd surely have to take her to, Jane announced she wanted to go through again. She said she'd be brave this time. And she was. Then she wanted to go again, but I had to draw the line somewhere.<br /><br />We actually did go door to door on our street and to a few select neighbors a few streets over on Saturday night. We were worried the whole neighborhood trick-or-treating was a thing of the past, but were glad to see others out, even in the rain.<br /><br />Did you have many trick-or-treaters at your house? Did you go door-to-door? The mall? The grocery store?Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-22539857622397251992010-10-18T06:42:00.006+07:002010-10-19T04:12:46.496+07:00I'm a dreamerGenerally speaking, I'm the dreamer in this marriage. Jeff is what I like to call "my reality check". I talk all the time about all the places we'll visit, the things we'll do, how I'd like certain situations to go, experiences that will come our way, what we'll be like when we're older, and so on. I know I don't have control over what life throws my way. And it must be said that sometimes things come our way that are much better than I've dreamed (I'm really not that creative!). Regardless, it's fun for me to dream and hope things go accordingly.<br /><br />So when I heard from our friends that they might be coming to Utah for Conference weekend, I hardly dared hope it would really happen. If fact, after talking to "my reality check" we determined there's no way they could get the proper paper work and plan their trip in such a short time, so we hoped that they would make it in six months for the next conference. THEN, it started happening. Visas were given, passports obtained, flights purchased, and temple dates set.<br /><br />When we had to say goodbye to <a href="http://thailand-hillmans.blogspot.com/2008/12/people-we-love.html">Napa and Dipu</a> in Thailand, (the post in this link is long...you've been warned) I bawled. I felt terrible for taking our children away from people who loved them so much. We promised we'd be together again, that they'd come to Utah, and we would stay in touch. I knew staying in touch was a given, but could they really get to Utah? Really? I hoped, but I remained skeptical. It's amazing what the Lord can make happen though, is it not?<br /><br />We weren't sure what Jane (our extremely unpredictable child) would do when she saw them. Would she remember how much she loved them? All the memories? She was only three! Jeff took her to pick them up from their hotel, and she ran right into their arms, just like no time had passed. We spent the evening assembling 3-D puzzles they brought for the kids and catching up on their traveling adventures.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/5091553888_4d25a95569_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/5091553888_4d25a95569.jpg" /></a></div><br />They arrived just in time for conference weekend and attended all five sessions. I was lucky enough to attend the temple when they went through for the first time, and the following morning, they were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple.<br /><br />At the Oquirrh Mountain Temple, we were surprised to meet the man who would be sealing them the next day. Turns out, their son is the one who taught their temple preparation class in Bangkok before coming to Utah. Small world.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4090/5091558942_bbb84b234b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4090/5091558942_bbb84b234b.jpg" /></a></div><br />You'd think coming from Thailand, they wouldn't know too many people, but these two have people who love them all over the world. Missionaries, parents of missionaries, ward members, and even the branch president of Nepal (Dipu's country) who just happened to be in town receiving a humanitarian award. Talk about the stars aligning. It was one happy gathering.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5091560180_c2fea9370d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5091560180_c2fea9370d.jpg" /></a></div><br />This is shortly after coming out of the temple. Napa always smiles, but this was an entirely different plane of happiness.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5091558414_5b31bc13e8_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5091558414_5b31bc13e8.jpg" /></a></div><br />The happy couple.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5091555788_b27d32a48a_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5091555788_b27d32a48a.jpg" /></a></div><br />The whole thing was such a whirlwind, but we did have some time just to be together at home as well. We played a little soccer in the backyard...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5091559352_8036f6e35f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5091559352_8036f6e35f.jpg" /></a></div><br />The kids gave them a concert... (Jane hadn't started violin yet when we left)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5091554908_2da69a28ba_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5091554908_2da69a28ba.jpg" /></a></div><br />... Jane discovered that there was a reason Napa is still learning to read English... because she usually reads in Thai! Jane was AMAZED Napa could <span style="font-style: italic;">read</span> the Thai books we have around the house that we usually just look at.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5091557788_febefe3aa1_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5091557788_febefe3aa1.jpg" /></a></div><br />... and I even caught Napa and Jane passed out on the bed from pure exhaustion. If it seemed like a whirlwind to us, I can't imagine what it felt like after all the traveling.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5090959013_c09f5f248f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5090959013_c09f5f248f.jpg" /></a></div><br />When Jane first met Napa and Dipu, she wasn't much older than Alice is now. Those memories seemed so fresh as we watched Alice fall completely in love with them, just like Jack and Jane did.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5090956717_2857e71a4d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5090956717_2857e71a4d.jpg" /></a></div><br />I think this is my favorite picture.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5090963001_6957578e58_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5090963001_6957578e58.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jack: Mom, Dipu and Napa are our family, right?<br /><br />Me: Absolutely.Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-70266260521440998502010-08-02T11:27:00.008+07:002010-08-16T13:10:45.503+07:00Pioneer DayI think Pioneers have been more a part of our life this year than ever before. We've loved our time at This is the Place Heritage Park. Jack keeps making me promise that we'll do it again next year. I fully plan on it, if they'll have us.<br /><br />This is Elora, the hired BYU history major who keeps things moving at our "home". We all adore her, but Jane in particular is a big fan (although from Jane's face in this one, you might not know it).<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4117/4896842882_d0dcd45743_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4117/4896842882_d0dcd45743.jpg" /></a></div><br />We had a special Pioneer Day weekend, starting with our usual Friday at the park, but it wasn't usual at all. We had a bunch of our family come up to visit, and as we arrived at the house we realized the Mormon Battalion (reenactment) was camping in our back yard! The Battalion gathered from all over the country for the weekend, and it was fun to visit with many of them as we enjoyed the festivities of the day.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4896851752_a8f4019782_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4896851752_a8f4019782.jpg" /></a></div><br />My sisters, their husbands, kids, my parents (including my mom who was only 8 weeks out of getting a portion of her lung removed), and my grandparents all came to play.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4896254927_3593e3bf43_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4896254927_3593e3bf43.jpg" /></a></div><br />We got out our fiddles, guitars, and mandolins, and tried to remember how we used to be able to play a mean "Devil Went Down to Georgia". It's not so mean anymore. Actually, there was a lot of laughter, but it was fun nonetheless.<br /><br />Our pioneer neighbors (a family of 9) came down with their instruments and we all danced the Virginia Reel with whoever would join us. The kids were loving it. Wish I had a picture of that, but I was too busy dancing with my boy. Jack, not Jeff. Do you know my husband at all?<br /><br />We left from the pioneer village to Lake Town, UT to stay with our friend Wyatt's family. We loved our time with the Lamborn's last time and just couldn't stay away, especially since the Quan's were in town. During their trek from Bangkok to DC, they made a stop in Lake Town. Who doesn't? So finally, little Alice got to meet big Alice. All five feet of her. Maybe Alices are just supposed to be small?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4896841144_ddfe49884e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4896841144_ddfe49884e.jpg" /></a></div><br />We spent the evening and all the next day with these two sweet families. Jack and Jane couldn't get enough of Sarah and Emily, and I could have visited with the Quans, Wyatt and his family for days.<br /><br />We took the kids for a quick horse ride, and got some pictures...<br /><br />(The locals thought it was hilarious that we thought hay was a great backdrop for pictures. Yes, we are city folk.)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4896253221_48f6f08c33_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4896253221_48f6f08c33.jpg" /></a></div><br />A family portrait where you can actually see everyone's face. Almost.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4896250115_edeae7fc23_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4896250115_edeae7fc23.jpg" /></a></div><br />... and the next day we enjoyed a delicious pioneer day breakfast with the one and only Lake Town ward. I love small towns. Plus, we figured out that Wyatt's sister-in-law is my childhood friend's cousin. Did you get that? I knew there was a reason I liked Amy so much.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4896246139_f5d881689e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4896246139_f5d881689e.jpg" /></a></div><br />Wyatt volunteered all of us to play in their town's Pioneer Day talent show. Thanks Wyatt. Sarah and Emily Quan, at the ages of 10 and 14 are much better musicians (violin and piano) than I'll ever be, so I basked in their talent and passion and loved how involved and supportive Alice and Steven are with them. Jeff and I did play a little piece. Just because we've decided we'll pretty much do anything for this family. <br /><br />Keeping little Alice happy during the program.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4896839294_c3c9583acb_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4896839294_c3c9583acb.jpg" /></a></div><br />Then, we enjoyed probably my favorite parade ever. There were about 10 floats (tractors, 4-wheelers, trucks, plus some) and they threw TONS of candy. So much candy that there were no tears and no clashes between kids trying to get the same piece. Then, after the floats had passed, we cut through the block and met the floats all over again as they went around the other side of the block. Short+no crowds+all smiles = best parade ever.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4896851020_f2f2f9d2cd_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4896851020_f2f2f9d2cd.jpg" /></a></div><br />We just had to get a photo of the whole Bangkok crew. Quans, Wyatt, and the Hillmans. We might look a little nervous, because to be honest, we were all a little worried about the trampoline not holding. Thank goodness one of these families has small genes.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4896849986_2f81e4fd7e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4896849986_2f81e4fd7e.jpg" /></a></div><br />These three sure made a connection. It was hard when Jack had to say goodbye, knowing it would be a while before he gets to see his friends again.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4896247889_916e81b292_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4896247889_916e81b292.jpg" /></a></div><br />It wasn't just Jack that hated to say goodbye. Who knows when we'll see our world traveling friend again.? Luckily, we at least know how to see Wyatt.Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-84272826683171894072010-08-02T11:07:00.003+07:002010-08-02T11:26:41.316+07:00Island ParkWe enjoyed several days in Island Park last month with the Hillman crew. It was fun to catch up with Jason and Heidi who spent the previous 2 months in Canada, let the cousins play 'till they dropped, see beautiful Yellowstone, and enjoy uninterrupted time with the adults after bedtime. Sam was the MC for our "not-so-newlywed" game, and I think he really could be a game show host. Who knew?<br /><br />Darcy and Alice are five months apart, and I fully plan on them becoming great friends as they grow up. Do they not both have the cutest grins? Toothless and toothy.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4852223818_2370194a80_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4852223818_2370194a80.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jane doing her best Bison impersonation. Notice Mr. Bison in the background.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4852224368_d091e39db5_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4852224368_d091e39db5.jpg" /></a></div><br />Two months apart, but they picked up right where they left off. Hot and cold, these two. But, we're learning to dwell on the tender moments more, because they really are sweet together.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4851606935_b41bf385e3_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4851606935_b41bf385e3.jpg" /></a></div><br />Enjoying the picnic.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4852225290_0f407ea048_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4852225290_0f407ea048.jpg" /></a></div><br />Yellowstone's Grand Canyon.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4851607861_3eb3ed337d_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4851607861_3eb3ed337d.jpg" /></a></div><br />The whole gang eating our picnic at Old Faithful. Can't believe this was the only one I got of all of us!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4852226524_ab6ac8df98_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4852226524_ab6ac8df98.jpg" /></a></div><br />Just as we were starting our campfire, the rain started, and these two made the best of it. I love little girls.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4852226928_a4d31d1021_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4852226928_a4d31d1021.jpg" /></a></div><br />Alice just had to have a bite.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4852227482_a7675389e7_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4852227482_a7675389e7.jpg" /></a></div><br />Silly cousins.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4121/4852228182_9021c20e23_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4121/4852228182_9021c20e23.jpg" /></a></div><br />Can't remember who's night it was for story time, but they were INTO it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4851610747_779a59bcee_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4851610747_779a59bcee.jpg" /></a></div><br />I loved this view. And this boy.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4851611395_bfd39192db_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4851611395_bfd39192db.jpg" /></a></div><br />We really didn't take too many photos. It was such a relaxing vacation I almost hated to ruin it by pulling out the camera. Lots of memories can be made in just four days. Thanks, Hillmans!Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-59269661594556700762010-07-26T10:17:00.005+07:002010-08-18T02:12:00.932+07:00SummerSummer wasn't nearly long enough. Now with school starting, our slow days and spontaneous outings will start thinning out, until the holidays fill our calendars once again. Something I both look forward to and dread. We did have a fantastic summer though, and for the most part, stayed right here in Utah. Do we not live in a wonderful place?<br /><br />Here are a few of our 2010 summer memories...<br /><br />We hiked to Timpanogos cave and had a great time. The kids were surprisingly perky for the entire thing, and Alice loved her ride. We all decided we don't do nearly enough things like that. Something to work towards.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4896249655_7922c25045_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4896249655_7922c25045.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And Alice's close-up...<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4123/4896840290_90e59bc778_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4123/4896840290_90e59bc778.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">After the tour, the kids lingered and helped the geologists sort through dirt for a while. They were both completely fascinated.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4121/4896844070_6fceeaf2f3_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4121/4896844070_6fceeaf2f3.jpg" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Are these not the most tired, yet happiest hikers you've ever seen?<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4896257489_eaaba4b276_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4896257489_eaaba4b276.jpg" /></a></div><br /></div>We LOVE Freedom Days in Provo. Definitely one of my favorite celebrations of the year. We enjoyed another great reptile show, crafts, bouncy toys, and cousins. These two are so sweet together.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4896847068_e826fb0ce0_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4896847068_e826fb0ce0.jpg" /></a></div><br />Neither Jack nor Jane could leave without a wooden sword. Sometimes I wonder what Jane would be like without a big brother. She's such a fun mix this way.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4094/4896853262_78ec7af359_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4094/4896853262_78ec7af359.jpg" /></a></div><br />We spent a couple of days in Rexburg visiting family and BYU-I campus before meeting the Hillmans in Island Park. We were excited to see Uncle Rand, but he may have regretted the visit the next day.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4080/4896846106_cce4b8a5aa_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4080/4896846106_cce4b8a5aa.jpg" /></a></div><br />Aunt Jana made us feel so welcome, as always. We love how we feel in their home. We talked about buying an acre from them so we could live next door. Oh, the fun we could have.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4896251243_5a62204476_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4896251243_5a62204476.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Although, Rand might not love me after I make him sing me to sleep every night. Isn't that what neighbors do?<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4896852160_43baa33a80_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4896852160_43baa33a80.jpg" /></a></div><br /></div>The kids loved the pools at the hotels. Although Alice enjoyed watching more than actually swimming.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4094/4896840700_c04b6cf1f0_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4094/4896840700_c04b6cf1f0.jpg" /></a></div><br />Is she not the most precious thing you've ever seen?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4896244291_1e525ee486_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4896244291_1e525ee486.jpg" /></a></div><br />We had a great visit with Grandma Max. One of my favorites, actually. I wish she lived closer.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4896254007_a754ffbd6c_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4896254007_a754ffbd6c.jpg" /></a></div><br />The kids played for Grandma (or you could call it my cop-out on practicing for the day. Hey, they're playing, right?)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4896844554_b692358a8f_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4896844554_b692358a8f.jpg" /></a></div><br />We attended a concert in Harriman State Park in conjunction with Mountains and Strings that I used to help with. It is the most gorgeous concert setting I've ever witnessed. We listened to Jenny Oaks Baker, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, and with plenty of room for the kids to listen and wander.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4896252187_178d6fc4bc_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4896252187_178d6fc4bc.jpg" /></a></div><br />Oh, I love that place. Plus, Alice took her first steps during the concert. She's still working on it, but making progress!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4896843562_609cae99fa_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4896843562_609cae99fa.jpg" /></a></div><br />Can you beat this view?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4896852608_a3644cfe2e_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4896852608_a3644cfe2e.jpg" /></a></div><br />We've discovered the best dollar store item EVER. Jack and Jane spent hours in our backyard catching bugs, observing, and letting them go. (I love how Jane has her arm wrapped around Jack.)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4896246631_e12d6c8857_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4896246631_e12d6c8857.jpg" /></a></div><br />I was even surprised to discover one day when they each had a friend over that the friends were playing together because Jack and Jane had decided to catch bugs together instead of play inside. <br /><br />We love that we have ready-playmates right across the street. They've saved us many times when we need to switch things up a bit with the friend dynamic in our house. This day we just let them frolic through the sprinklers. Jack said this was "the best day ever". Really? All I need to do is turn the hose on? Done.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4096/4896252731_1c446074df_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4096/4896252731_1c446074df.jpg" /></a></div><br />We enjoyed a Bankok ward gathering in Mapleton at our dear friend's home. It was fun to see so many families and catch up a bit. I've missed so many of our Thailand friends. Mary Jane has always been such a great friend, it was a treat to spend some time with her and her girls after not seeing them for a year.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4094/4896848994_ca38313155_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4094/4896848994_ca38313155.jpg" /></a></div><br />Jack picked up right where he left off with the twins. They were wrestling, climbing trees, and eating all the desserts.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4896842428_a237bea798_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4896842428_a237bea798.jpg" /></a></div><br />A few days ago, we were reflecting on our summer and Jack said, "Mom, what about our summer fun ideas envelope?". I checked the side of our fridge and sure enough, there was the envelope we had filled with ideas, coupons, free passes, etc in anticipation of summer break. How did we do? Well, the envelope hadn't even been touched. Full. I guess we weren't lacking ideas on how to fill our days.<br /><br />Is it terrible I'm already counting down until next summer?<br /><br />What do you love to fill your summer with? Anything your kids (or you) couldn't get enough of this summer?Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8177537458849422878.post-36593908539722436332010-07-05T09:08:00.009+07:002010-07-06T20:20:12.396+07:00Oh, PeterEvery once in a while something comes along that helps me remember that I can do more than just change diapers, wipe counters, and fold laundry. This was one of those weekends.<br /><br />While Jeff was home being super-dad (or should I say super-super dad), I got to run away for a few days and play in a small orchestra with none other than <span style="font-style: italic;">the</span> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Cetera">Peter Cetera</a>. Who's Peter Cetera, you say? To be honest, that's what I thought when I was first asked to play. Then, like any normal person would do, I googled him. Then I got excited. (although in this picture, I think he looks like the villain in the first Spiderman movie)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.cabotmusic.co.uk/sheetmusic/images/cetera.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 376px; height: 347px;" src="http://www.cabotmusic.co.uk/sheetmusic/images/cetera.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />I spent Wednesday evening, Thursday, and Friday, in rehearsals and concerts in Logan, UT and Sun Valley, ID basking in the talent of some seriously cool musicians.<br /><br />From the left: Gene (guitar), Peter, Kim (vocals, percussion), Bruce (guitar), and Boh (piano).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bohcooper.com/photoalbum/SunDaddies.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 720px; height: 434px;" src="http://www.bohcooper.com/photoalbum/SunDaddies.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Logan was fun, because as I've said before,<a href="http://thailand-hillmans.blogspot.com/2010/05/we-did-it.html"> </a><a href="http://thailand-hillmans.blogspot.com/2010/05/we-did-it.html">I LOVE Logan</a><a href="http://thailand-hillmans.blogspot.com/2010/05/we-did-it.html">. </a>Plus, it was fun to walk the halls of my old stomping grounds and remember when my violin was a fifth appendage. I did love those days. Plus, I got to stay with my cousin and his wife, who I completely adore. We stayed up too late talking, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Plus, their daughter is the same age as my Alice, which helped with the withdrawal.<br /><br />I'd never been to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_Valley,_Idaho">Sun Valley</a> before, but hope to go back. The venue there was incredible. A good part of it was covered in these cut rocks that actually play a tone when you slap them. This is my friend, Sara, demonstrating.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4762660176_564dcd3ae4_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4762660176_564dcd3ae4.jpg" /></a></div><br />I really didn't take many pictures, but I got a couple during our Sun Valley sound check. This one is from where I was sitting.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4762660536_997f9d8a64_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4762660536_997f9d8a64.jpg" /></a></div><br />While the band was doing their sound check, I sat in the audience and dreamed of what it would be like to tour around the world (they just returned from South America) making music. You can see the venue a bit better from here.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4762659806_b74d6aea1b_b.jpg"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4762659806_b74d6aea1b.jpg" /></a></div><br />I was kicking myself for not getting a picture of Sarah and I when Boh (the pianist) joined us on our trip to the deli for dinner. We talked at length about his schooling, touring, and time spent playing for Rascal Flatts. I couldn't believe how down to earth he was. He was so friendly with everyone, learning our names, and even gave me a big ol' wink during the concert.<br /><br />I also wished I would have gotten a picture with the guitarist, Gene, because I <span style="font-style: italic;">know</span> he's going to be famous soon. He won me over when he busted out an amazing version of the Beatle's Lady Madonna. I told him later that I wanted <span style="font-style: italic;">his</span> album, and he assured me he was working on one. If I wasn't already in love with his style, while he and the band were waiting around on stage he started into a James Taylor song. I was dying.<br /><br />Peter, in general, was about what I expected: a fabulous performer. He did not disappoint. It's clear he knows what he's doing and the audiences <span style="font-style: italic;">loved</span> him. <span style="font-style: italic;">LOVED</span> him. Even male voices were shouting "Go Peter!".<br /><br />I would have loved to see that show. If I would have been in the audience, I would have been looking at the violinists thinking "I could do that. How do I get to do that?" like I usually do. The difference was, this time I <span style="font-style: italic;">was</span> doing it. I seriously wish I could brush this off like it was nothing because I do it all the time. But I don't. I'm a mom. I've played gigs here and there, seen a few famous faces (Willy Nelson DID wave at me during the Olympics gig, and I did get to "pretend" to play while Harry Connick, Jr. was serenading the audience to the pre-recorded minus track, and such), but this seemed different. I loved watching how the band interacted, how they doodled on their instruments, and how they laughed at musical humor. I was super impressed with how humble they all were.<br /><br />I wish I could say I've done a million of these, but I haven't, so it really <span style="font-style: italic;">was</span> something I loved. Even half-way through the Sun Valley show when my teeth were chattering from the cold, I was still excited to be a part of it. Even when I climbed into my own bed at 6am to go to sleep for the night and the kids came in at 6:15am, I was <span style="font-style: italic;">still</span> happy I did it.<br /><br />So now, who's next? When is James Taylor coming to town? Did I already miss Michael Buble?<br /><br />Anyone<span style="font-style: italic;"> YOU</span> would love to see the behind-the-scenes?Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02923697793774659745noreply@blogger.com7